bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Active sites of copper-complex catalytic materials for electrochemical carbon dioxide reduction
Authors: Weng Zhe , Wu Yueshen , Wang Maoyu , Jiang Jianbing , Yang Ke , Huo Shengjuan , Wang Xiao-Feng , Ma Qing , Brudvig Gary W. , Batista Victor S. , Liang Yongye , Feng Zhenxing , Wang Hailiang
Published: January 2018

Restructuring-induced catalytic activity is an intriguing phenomenon of fundamental importance to rational design of high-performance catalyst materials. We study three copper-complex materials for electrocatalytic carbon dioxide reduction. Among them, the copper(II) phthalocyanine exhibits by far the highest activity for yielding methane with a Faradaic efficiency of 66% and a partial current density of 13 mA cm−2 at the potential of – 1.06 V versus the reversible hydrogen electrode. Utilizing in-situ and operando X-ray absorption spectroscopy, we find that under the working conditions copper(II) phthalocyanine undergoes reversible structural and oxidation state changes to form ~ 2 nm metallic copper clusters, which catalyzes the carbon dioxide-to-methane conversion. Density functional calculations rationalize the restructuring behavior and attribute the reversibility to the strong divalent metal ion–ligand coordination in the copper(II) phthalocyanine molecular structure and the small size of the generated copper clusters under the reaction conditions.
Publisher Correction: Stateful characterization of resistive switching TiO2 with electron beam induced currents
Authors: Hoskins Brian D. , Adam Gina C. , Strelcov Evgheni , Zhitenev Nikolai , Kolmakov Andrei , Strukov Dmitri B. , McClelland Jabez J.
Published: January 2018

The original version of this Article contained an error in Eq. 1. The arrows between the symbols “T” and “B”, and “B” and “T”, were written “↔” but should have been “→”, and incorrectly read: IEBIC=IEBAC+ISEE+I(e↔h)+IEBICT↔B+IESEEB↔T The correct from of the Eq. 1 is as follows:IEBIC=IEBAC+ISEE+I(e↔h)+IEBICT→B+IESEEB→T This has now been corrected in both the PDF and HTML versions of the article.
In-situ liquid cell transmission electron microscopy investigation on oriented attachment of gold nanoparticles
Authors: Zhu Chao , Liang Suxia , Song Erhong , Zhou Yuanjun , Wang Wen , Shan Feng , Shi Yantao , Hao Ce , Yin Kuibo , Zhang Tong , Liu Jianjun , Zheng Haimei , Sun Litao
Published: January 2018

Inside a liquid solution, oriented attachment (OA) is now recognized to be as important a pathway to crystal growth as other, more conventional growth mechanisms. However, the driving force that controls the occurrence of OA is still poorly understood. Here, using in-situ liquid cell transmission electron microscopy, we demonstrate the ligand-controlled OA of citrate-stabilized gold nanoparticles at atomic resolution. Our data reveal that particle pairs rotate randomly at a separation distance greater than twice the layer thickness of adsorbed ligands. In contrast, when the particles get closer, their ligands overlap and guide the rotation into a directional mode until they share a common {111} orientation, when a sudden contact occurs accompanied by the simultaneous expulsion of the ligands on this surface. First-principle calculations confirm that the lower ligand binding energy on {111} surfaces is the intrinsic reason for the preferential attachment at this facet, rather than on other low-index facets.
Gene-metabolite profile integration to understand the cause of spaceflight induced immunodeficiency
Authors: Chakraborty Nabarun , Cheema Amrita , Gautam Aarti , Donohue Duncan , Hoke Allison , Conley Carolynn , Jett Marti , Hammamieh Rasha
Published: January 2018

Spaceflight presents a spectrum of stresses very different from those associated with terrestrial conditions. Our previous study (BMC Genom. 15: 659, 2014) integrated the expressions of mRNAs, microRNAs, and proteins and results indicated that microgravity induces an immunosuppressive state that can facilitate opportunistic pathogenic attack. However, the existing data are not sufficient for elucidating the molecular drivers of the given immunosuppressed state. To meet this knowledge gap, we focused on the metabolite profile of spaceflown human cells. Independent studies have attributed cellular energy deficiency as a major cause of compromised immunity of the host, and metabolites that are closely associated with energy production could be a robust signature of atypical energy fluctuation. Our protocol involved inoculation of human endothelial cells in cell culture modules in spaceflight and on the ground concurrently. Ten days later, the cells in space and on the ground were exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a ubiquitous membrane endotoxin of Gram-negative bacteria. Nucleic acids, proteins, and metabolites were collected 4 and 8 h post-LPS exposure. Untargeted profiling of metabolites was followed by targeted identification of amino acids and knowledge integration with gene expression profiles. Consistent with the past reports associating microgravity with increased energy expenditure, we identified several markers linked to energy deficiency, including various amino acids such as tryptophan, creatinine, dopamine, and glycine, and cofactors such as lactate and pyruvate. The present study revealed a molecular architecture linking energy metabolism and immunodeficiency in microgravity. The energy-deficient condition potentially cascaded into dysregulation of protein metabolism and impairment of host immunity. This project is limited by a small sample size. Although a strict statistical screening was carefully implemented, the present results further emphasize the need for additional studies with larger sample sizes. Validating this hypothesis using an in vivo model is essential to extend the knowledge towards identifying markers of diagnostic and therapeutic value.
Nitrogen Fertilization Elevated Spatial Heterogeneity of Soil Microbial Biomass Carbon and Nitrogen in Switchgrass and Gamagrass Croplands
Authors: Li Jianwei , Guo Chunlan , Jian Siyang , Deng Qi , Yu Chih-Li , Dzantor Kudjo E. , Hui Dafeng
Published: January 2018

The effects of intensive nitrogen (N) fertilizations on spatial distributions of soil microbes in bioenergy croplands remain unknown. To quantify N fertilization effect on spatial heterogeneity of soil microbial biomass carbon (MBC) and N (MBN), we sampled top mineral horizon soils (0-15 cm) using a spatially explicit design within two 15-m2 plots under three fertilization treatments in two bioenergy croplands in a three-year long fertilization experiment in Middle Tennessee, USA. The three fertilization treatments were no N input (NN), low N input (LN: 84 kg N ha−1 in urea) and high N input (HN: 168 kg N ha−1 in urea). The two crops were switchgrass (SG: Panicum virgatum L.) and gamagrass (GG: Tripsacum dactyloides L.). Results showed that N fertilizations little altered central tendencies of microbial variables but relative to LN, HN significantly increased MBC and MBC:MBN (GG only). HN possessed the greatest within-plot variances except for MBN (GG only). Spatial patterns were generally evident under HN and LN plots and much less so under NN plots. Substantially contrasting spatial variations were also identified between croplands (GG > SG) and among variables (MBN, MBC:MBN > MBC). This study demonstrated that spatial heterogeneity is elevated in microbial biomass of fertilized soils likely by uneven fertilizer application in bioenergy crops.
Injection locking at 2f of spin torque oscillators under influence of thermal noise
Authors: Tortarolo M. , Lacoste B. , Hem J. , Dieudonné C. , Cyrille M.-C. , Katine J. A. , Mauri D. , Zeltser A. , Buda-Prejbeanu L. D. , Ebels U.
Published: January 2018

Integration of Spin Torque Nano-Oscillators STNO’s in conventional microwave circuits means that the devices have to meet certain specifications. One of the most important criteria is the phase noise, being the key parameter to evaluate the performance and define possible applications. Phase locking several oscillators together has been suggested as a possible means to decrease phase noise and consequently, the linewidth. In this work we present experiments, numerical simulations and an analytic model to describe the effects of thermal noise in the injection locking of a tunnel junction based STNO. The analytics show the relation of the intrinsic parameters of the STNO with the phase noise level, opening the path to tailor the spectral characteristics by the magnetic configuration. Experiments and simulations demonstrate that in the in-plane magnetized structure, while the frequency is locked, much higher reference currents are needed to reduce the noise by phase locking. Moreover, our analysis shows that it is possible to control the phase noise by the reference microwave current (IRF) and that it can be further reduced by increasing the bias current (IDC) of the oscillator, keeping the reference current in feasible limits for applications.
Isoliquiritigenin blunts osteoarthritis by inhibition of bone resorption and angiogenesis in subchondral bone
Authors: Ji Baochao , Zhang Zhendong , Guo Wentao , Ma Hairong , Xu Boyong , Mu Wenbo , Amat Abdusami , Cao Li
Published: January 2018

Isoliquiritigenin (ISL), a natural flavonoid extracted from licorice, has been demonstrated to exert attenuation of osteoclastogenesis and anti-angiogenesis activity in a wide variety of cells. Here, we first evaluated the effects of ISL on pathogenesis of osteoarthritis in a mouse model of OA. The data showed that ISL blunted progression of OA and lowered the Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI)-Modified Making Score and protected the articular cartilage. The thickness of calcified cartilage zone was significantly decreased in ISL-treated ACLT mice compared with vehicle group. ISL increased expression level of lubricin and decreased collagen X (Col X), matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13). Moreover, ISL reduced aberrant active subchondral bone remodelling, including lowered trabecular pattern factor (Tb.pf) and increased bone volume/tissue volume (BV/TV, %) and thickness of subchondral bone plate (SBP) compared with vehicle-treated group. The results of immunostaining further revealed that ISL directly reduced RANKL-RANK-TRAF6 singling pathway induced osteoclastogenesis, prevented abnormal bone formation through indirect inhibition of TGF-β release. Additionally, ISL exerts anti-angiogenesis effects in subchondral bone through direct suppression of MMP-2. These results indicated that ISL attenuates progression of OA by inhibition of bone resorption and angiogenesis in subchondral bone, indicating that this may be a potential preventive therapy for OA.
Microbial fuel cell assisted band gap narrowed TiO2 for visible light-induced photocatalytic activities and power generation
Authors: Khan Mohammad Ehtisham , Khan Mohammad Mansoob , Min Bong-Ki , Cho Moo Hwan
Published: January 2018

This paper reports a simple, biogenic and green approach to obtain narrow band gap and visible light-active TiO2nanoparticles. Commercial white TiO2(w-TiO2) was treated in the cathode chamber of a Microbial Fuel Cell (MFC), which produced modified light gray TiO2(g-TiO2) nanoparticles. The DRS, PL, XRD, EPR, HR-TEM, and XPS were performed to understand the band gap decline ofg-TiO2. The optical study revealed a significant decrease in the band gap of theg-TiO2(Eg = 2.80 eV) compared to thew-TiO2(Eg = 3.10 eV). The XPS revealed variations in the surface states, composition, Ti4+to Ti3+ratio, and oxygen vacancies in theg-TiO2. The Ti3+and oxygen vacancy-induced enhanced visible light photocatalytic activity ofg-TiO2was confirmed by degrading different model dyes. The enhanced photoelectrochemical response under visible light irradiation further supported the improved performance of theg-TiO2owing to a decrease in the electron transfer resistance and an increase in charge transfer rate. During the TiO2treatment process, electricity generation in MFC was also observed, which was ~0.3979 V corresponding to a power density of 70.39 mW/m2. This study confirms narrow band gap TiO2can be easily obtained and used effectively as photocatalysts and photoelectrode material.
Using DNA origami nanorulers as traceable distance measurement standards and nanoscopic benchmark structures
Authors: Raab Mario , Jusuk Ija , Molle Julia , Buhr Egbert , Bodermann Bernd , Bergmann Detlef , Bosse Harald , Tinnefeld Philip
Published: January 2018

In recent years, DNA origami nanorulers for superresolution (SR) fluorescence microscopy have been developed from fundamental proof-of-principle experiments to commercially available test structures. The self-assembled nanostructures allow placing a defined number of fluorescent dye molecules in defined geometries in the nanometer range. Besides the unprecedented control over matter on the nanoscale, robust DNA origami nanorulers are reproducibly obtained in high yields. The distances between their fluorescent marks can be easily analysed yielding intermark distance histograms from many identical structures. Thus, DNA origami nanorulers have become excellent reference and training structures for superresolution microscopy. In this work, we go one step further and develop a calibration process for the measured distances between the fluorescent marks on DNA origami nanorulers. The superresolution technique DNA-PAINT is used to achieve nanometrological traceability of nanoruler distances following the guide to the expression of uncertainty in measurement (GUM). We further show two examples how these nanorulers are used to evaluate the performance of TIRF microscopes that are capable of single-molecule localization microscopy (SMLM).
Rheumatoid arthritis patient antibodies highly recognize IL-2 in the immune response pathway involving IRF5 and EBV antigens
Authors: Bo Marco , Niegowska Magdalena , Erre Gian Luca , Piras Marco , Longu Maria Giovanna , Manchia Pierangela , Manca Mario , Passiu Giuseppe , Sechi Leonardo A.
Published: January 2018

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by a progressive joint damage due to largely unknown environmental factors acting in concert with risk alleles conferring genetic susceptibility. A major role has been attributed to viral infections that include past contacts with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and, more recently, to non-protein coding sequences of human endogenous retrovirus K (HERV-K) integrated in the human genome. Molecular mimicry between viral and self proteins is supposed to cause the loss of immune tolerance in predisposed hosts. There are evidences that anti-IL-2 antibodies (Abs) are present in subjects affected by autoimmune diseases and may be responsible for alterations in regulatory T cell responses. In this study, we evaluated the levels of Abs against IL-2, viral epitopes and interferon regulatory factor 5 (IRF5) in 140 RA patients and 137 healthy controls (HCs). Ab reactivity reached the highest levels for IRF5, EBV and IL-2 (56%, 44% and 39%, respectively) in RA with significantly lower values among HCs (7–9%, p < 0.0001), which suggests a possible cross-reaction between IRF5/EBV homologous antigens and shifts in T cell balance disrupted by anti-IL-2 Abs.
Ordered states in the Kitaev-Heisenberg model: From 1D chains to 2D honeycomb
Authors: Agrapidis Cliò Efthimia , van den Brink Jeroen , Nishimoto Satoshi
Published: January 2018

We study the ground state of the 1D Kitaev-Heisenberg (KH) model using the density-matrix renormalization group and Lanczos exact diagonalization methods. We obtain a rich ground-state phase diagram as a function of the ratio between Heisenberg (J = cosϕ) and Kitaev (K = sinϕ) interactions. Depending on the ratio, the system exhibits four long-range ordered states: ferromagnetic-z, ferromagnetic-xy, staggered-xy, Néel-z, and two liquid states: Tomonaga-Luttinger liquid and spiral-xy. The two Kitaev points $${\boldsymbol{\phi }}{\boldsymbol{=}}\frac{{\boldsymbol{\pi }}}{{\bf{2}}}$$
ϕ
=

π
2

and $${\boldsymbol{\varphi }}{\boldsymbol{=}}\frac{{\bf{3}}{\boldsymbol{\pi }}}{{\bf{2}}}$$
φ
=

3
π

2

are singular. The ϕ-dependent phase diagram is similar to that for the 2D honeycomb-lattice KH model. Remarkably, all the ordered states of the honeycomb-lattice KH model can be interpreted in terms of the coupled KH chains. We also discuss the magnetic structure of the K-intercalated RuCl3, a potential Kitaev material, in the framework of the 1D KH model. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the low-lying excitations of the 1D KH Hamiltonian can be explained within the combination of the known six-vertex model and spin-wave theory.
Investigating the origins of eastern Polynesians using genome-wide data from the Leeward Society Isles
Authors: Hudjashov Georgi , Endicott Phillip , Post Helen , Nagle Nano , Ho Simon Y. W. , Lawson Daniel J. , Reidla Maere , Karmin Monika , Rootsi Siiri , Metspalu Ene , Saag Lauri , Villems Richard , Cox Murray P. , Mitchell R. John , Garcia-Bertrand Ralph L. , Metspalu Mait , Herrera Rene J.
Published: January 2018

The debate concerning the origin of the Polynesian speaking peoples has been recently reinvigorated by genetic evidence for secondary migrations to western Polynesia from the New Guinea region during the 2nd millennium BP. Using genome-wide autosomal data from the Leeward Society Islands, the ancient cultural hub of eastern Polynesia, we find that the inhabitants’ genomes also demonstrate evidence of this episode of admixture, dating to 1,700–1,200 BP. This supports a late settlement chronology for eastern Polynesia, commencing ~1,000 BP, after the internal differentiation of Polynesian society. More than 70% of the autosomal ancestry of Leeward Society Islanders derives from Island Southeast Asia with the lowland populations of the Philippines as the single largest potential source. These long-distance migrants into Polynesia experienced additional admixture with northern Melanesians prior to the secondary migrations of the 2nd millennium BP. Moreover, the genetic diversity of mtDNA and Y chromosome lineages in the Leeward Society Islands is consistent with linguistic evidence for settlement of eastern Polynesia proceeding from the central northern Polynesian outliers in the Solomon Islands. These results stress the complex demographic history of the Leeward Society Islands and challenge phylogenetic models of cultural evolution predicated on eastern Polynesia being settled from Samoa.
Role of Particle Entanglement in the Violation of Bell Inequalities
Authors: Wasak Tomasz , Smerzi Augusto , Chwedeńczuk Jan
Published: January 2018

Entanglement between two separate systems is a necessary resource to violate a Bell inequality in a test of local realism. We demonstrate that to overcome the Bell bound, this correlation must be accompanied by the entanglement between the constituent particles. This happens whenever a super-selection rule prohibits coherences between states with different total number of particles and thus imposes a constraint on feasible local operations in each sub-system. We show that the necessary entanglement between the particles might solely result from their indistinguishability. We also give an example of both mode and particle-entangled pure state, which does not violate any Bell inequality. Our result reveals a fundamental relation between the non-locality and the particle entanglement.
Aging extension and modifications of lipid metabolism in the monogonont rotifer Brachionus koreanus under chronic caloric restriction
Authors: Lee Min-Chul , Park Jun Chul , Yoon Deok-Seo , Han Jeonghoon , Kang Sujin , Kamizono Shohei , Om Ae-Son , Shin Kyung-Hoon , Hagiwara Atsushi , Lee Jae-Seong
Published: January 2018

To examine the interrelationship of aging extension and modification of lipid metabolism under chronic caloric restriction (CCR; reduced concentration of the green algae Tetraselmis suecica) in the monogonont rotifer Brachionus koreanus, we assessed life cycle parameters, fatty acid composition, and expression of sirtuin and genes related to lipid metabolism. B. koreanus in the 5% T. suecica group showed an increased life span but decreased reproduction. Based on this finding, we chose 5% T. suecica for further experiments and compared the data with those for 100% T. suecica. Upregulation of sirtuin gene expression was observed under CCR. In addition, despite the reduction in the amount of total fatty acid (FA) and the area of triacylglycerol, increases in the ratios of saturated fatty acid and monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) to total FA in 5%-exposed B. koreanus were observed. Furthermore, mRNA expression analysis confirmed that CCR promoted the synthesis of MUFA through Δ9 desaturase. Moreover, expression of the docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) synthesizing gene Δ4 desaturase was also upregulated, together with DHA content. These data suggest that CCR modified protein acetylation and lipid metabolism, leading to a decrease in reproduction and consequently resulting in life span extension.
MRI/Fluorescence bimodal amplification system for cellular GSH detection and tumor cell imaging based on manganese dioxide nanosheet
Authors: Yuan Dandan , Ding Lairong , Sun Zhaomei , Li Xuemei
Published: January 2018

Here, we report a novel magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)/fluorescence bimodal amplification platform for the detection of glutathione (GSH) on the basis of redoxable manganese dioxide (MnO2) nanosheets, which can be readily applied as a DNA nanocarrier, fluorescence quencher, and intracellular GSH-activated MRI contrast agent. The binding of aptamers that absorbed on the MnO2 nanosheets to their target can facilitating the endocytosis of target-nanoprobes. Once endocytosed, the MnO2 nanosheets can react with cellular GSH, resulting in the disintegration of nanosheets to generate plenty of Mn2+ ions for MRI and releases the primers which were adsorbed on the MnO2 nanosheets. Then the rolling circle amplification (RCA) reaction was initiated to amplify the fluorescence signal. In addition, after treatment with GSH, the MnO2 nanosheets were reduced and then most of the fluorescence was recovered. Therefore, this MnO2 nanoprobe exhibits excellent selectivity, suggesting a potential detection platform for analyzing the glutathione level in cells.
Spatiotemporal patterning of EpCAM is important for murine embryonic endo- and mesodermal differentiation
Authors: Sarrach Sannia , Huang Yuanchi , Niedermeyer Sebastian , Hachmeister Matthias , Fischer Laura , Gille Sebastian , Pan Min , Mack Brigitte , Kranz Gisela , Libl Darko , Merl-Pham Juliane , Hauck Stefanie M. , Paoluzzi Tomada Elisa , Kieslinger Matthias , Jeremias Irmela , Scialdone Antonio , Gires Olivier
Published: January 2018

Epithelial cell adhesion molecule EpCAM is expressed in pluripotent embryonic stem cells (ESC)in vitro, but is repressed in differentiated cells, except epithelia and carcinomas. Molecular functions of EpCAM, possibly imposing such repression, were primarily studied in malignant cells and might not apply to non-pathologic differentiation. Here, we comprehensively describe timing and rationale for EpCAM regulation in early murine gastrulation and ESC differentiation using single cell RNA-sequencing datasets,in vivoandin vitromodels including CRISPR-Cas9-engineered ESC-mutants. We demonstrate expression of EpCAM in inner cell mass, epiblast, primitive/visceral endoderm, and strict repression in the most primitive, nascent Flk1+mesoderm progenitors at E7.0. Selective expression of EpCAM was confirmed at mid-gestation and perinatal stages. The rationale for strict patterning was studied in ESC differentiation. Gain/loss-of-function demonstrated supportive functions of EpCAM in achieving full pluripotency and guided endodermal differentiation, but repressive functions in mesodermal differentiation as exemplified with cardiomyocyte formation. We further identified embryonic Ras (ERas) as novel EpCAM interactor of EpCAM and an EpCAM/ERas/AKT axis that is instrumental in differentiation regulation. Hence, spatiotemporal patterning of EpCAM at the onset of gastrulation, resulting in early segregation of interdependent EpCAM+endodermal and EpCAM−/vimentin+mesodermal clusters represents a novel regulatory feature during ESC differentiation.
Design, Bioactivity and structure-activity of 3-Arylpropionate Derivatives as Potential High-Efficient Acaricides against Psoroptes Cuniculi
Authors: Chen Dongdong , Tian Ye , Xu Mingxuan , Wang Xinyuan , Li Ding , Miao Fang , Yang Xinjuan , Zhou Le
Published: January 2018

A series of 3-aryl propionic esters and their analogues were designed and evaluated for acaricidal activity in vitro against Psoroptes cuniculi, a mange mite. The structure–activity relationship (SAR) was also discussed. The results showed that 6 compounds possessed the excellent activity (LC50 = 0.17–0.24 mM, LT50 = 1.5–2.9 h), superior to ivermectin (LC50 = 0.28 mM, LT50 = 8.9 h) (P < 0.05), a standard drug. Furthermore, 7 compounds showed the good activity (LC50 = 0.25–0.37 mM, LT50 < 3.9 h), slightly lower or close to that of ivermectin. One compound displayed super-fast acaricidal property, far superior to ivermectin. SAR analysis found that the ester group is vital for the activity and the small steric hindrance adjacent to the ester group is advantageous for the high activity. The <C4 linear alcohol esters can give the higher activity. The substituents on the 3-phenyl ring or replacement of the 3-phenyl with heterocyclic aryl generally decreases the activity. The position of the ester group in the ester chain also influences the activity, where the 3-phenyl propionate and the benzoate had the highest and lowest activity, respectively. Thus, 3-arylpropionates emerged as new and promising high-efficient acaricide candidates.
DNA structure at the plasmid origin-of-transfer indicates its potential transfer range
Authors: Zrimec Jan , Lapanje Aleš
Published: January 2018

Horizontal gene transfer via plasmid conjugation enables antimicrobial resistance (AMR) to spread among bacteria and is a major health concern. The range of potential transfer hosts of a particular conjugative plasmid is characterised by its mobility (MOB) group, which is currently determined based on the amino acid sequence of the plasmid-encoded relaxase. To facilitate prediction of plasmid MOB groups, we have developed a bioinformatic procedure based on analysis of the origin-of-transfer (oriT), a merely 230 bp long non-coding plasmid DNA region that is the enzymatic substrate for the relaxase. By computationally interpreting conformational and physicochemical properties of the oriT region, which facilitate relaxase-oriT recognition and initiation of nicking, MOB groups can be resolved with over 99% accuracy. We have shown that oriT structural properties are highly conserved and can be used to discriminate among MOB groups more efficiently than the oriT nucleotide sequence. The procedure for prediction of MOB groups and potential transfer range of plasmids was implemented using published data and is available at http://dnatools.eu/MOB/plasmid.html.
Core-shell magnetoelectric nanorobot – A remotely controlled probe for targeted cell manipulation
Authors: Betal Soutik , Saha Amit Kumar , Ortega Eduardo , Dutta Moumita , Ramasubramanian Anand Kumar , Bhalla Amar Singh , Guo Ruyan
Published: January 2018

We have developed a remotely controlled dynamic process of manipulating targeted biological live cells using fabricated core-shell nanocomposites, which comprises of single crystalline ferromagnetic cores (CoFe2O4) coated with crystalline ferroelectric thin film shells (BaTiO3). We demonstrate them as a unique family of inorganic magnetoelectric nanorobots (MENRs), controlled remotely by applied a.c. or d.c. magnetic fields, to perform cell targeting, permeation, and transport. Under a.c. magnetic field excitation (50 Oe, 60 Hz), the MENR acts as a localized electric periodic pulse generator and can permeate a series of misaligned cells, while aligning them to an equipotential mono-array by inducing inter-cellular signaling. Under a.c. magnetic field (40 Oe, 30 Hz) excitation, MENRs can be dynamically driven to a targeted cell, avoiding untargeted cells in the path, irrespective of cell density. D.C. magnetic field (−50 Oe) excitation causes the MENRs to act as thrust generator and exerts motion in a group of cells.
MCPIP1-induced autophagy mediates ischemia/reperfusion injury in endothelial cells via HMGB1 and CaSR
Authors: Xie Xiaolong , Zhu Tiebing , Chen Lulu , Ding Shuang , Chu Han , Wang Jing , Yao Honghong , Chao Jie
Published: January 2018

Monocyte chemotactic protein-1-induced protein 1 (MCPIP1) plays a important role in ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. Autophagy is involved in activating endothelial cells in response to I/R. However, researchers have not clearly determined whether MCPIP1 mediates I/R injury in endothelial cells via autophagy, and its downstream mechanism remains unclear. Western blotting analyses and immunocytochemistry were applied to detect protein levels were detected in HUVECs. An in vitro scratch assay was used to detect cell migration. Cells were transfected with siRNAs to knockdown MCPIP1 and high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) expression. The pharmacological activator of autophagy rapamycin and the specific calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) inhibitor NPS-2143 were used to confirm the roles of autophagy and CaSR in I/R injury. I/R induced HMGB1 and CaSR expression, which subsequently upreguated the migration and apoptosis of HUVECs and coincided with the increase of autophagy. HMGB1 was involved in cell migration, whereas CaSR specifically participated in I/R-induced HUVEC apoptosis. Based on these findings, I/R-induced MCPIP1 expression regulates the migration and apoptosis of HUVECs via HMGB1 and CaSR, respectively, suggesting a new therapeutic targetof I/R injury.
Extra-Mediterranean glacial refuges in barred and common grass snakes (Natrix helvetica, N. natrix)
Authors: Kindler Carolin , Graciá Eva , Fritz Uwe
Published: January 2018

Extra-Mediterranean glacial refugia of thermophilic biota, in particular in northern latitudes, are controversial. In the present study we provide genetic evidence for extra-Mediterranean refugia in two species of grass snake. The refuge of a widely distributed western European lineage of the barred grass snake (Natrix helvetica) was most likely located in southern France, outside the classical refuges in the southern European peninsulas. One genetic lineage of the common grass snake (N. natrix), distributed in Scandinavia, Central Europe and the Balkan Peninsula, had two distinct glacial refuges. We show that one was located in the southern Balkan Peninsula. However, Central Europe and Scandinavia were not colonized from there, but from a second refuge in Central Europe. This refuge was located in between the northern ice sheet and the Alpine glaciers of the last glaciation and most likely in a permafrost region. Another co-distributed genetic lineage of N. natrix, now massively hybridizing with the aforementioned lineage, survived the last glaciation in a structured refuge in the southern Balkan Peninsula, according to the idea of ‘refugia-within-refugia’. It reached Central Europe only very recently. This study reports for the first time the glacial survival of a thermophilic egg-laying reptile species in Central Europe.
The inflammatory effects of TNF-α and complement component 3 on coagulation
Authors: Page Martin J. , Bester Janette , Pretorius Etheresia
Published: January 2018

Tissue necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and complement component 3 (C3) are two well-known pro-inflammatory molecules. When TNF-α is upregulated, it contributes to changes in coagulation and causes C3 induction. They both interact with receptors on platelets and erythrocytes (RBCs). Here, we look at the individual effects of C3 and TNF-α, by adding low levels of the molecules to whole blood and platelet poor plasma. We used thromboelastography, wide-field microscopy and scanning electron microscopy to study blood clot formation, as well as structural changes to RBCs and platelets. Clot formation was significantly different from the naïve sample for both the molecules. Furthermore, TNF-α exposure to whole blood resulted in platelet clumping and activation and we noted spontaneous plasma protein dense matted deposits. C3 exposure did not cause platelet aggregation, and only slight pseudopodia formation was noted. Therefore, although C3 presence has an important function to cause TNF-α release, it does not necessarily by itself cause platelet activation or RBC damage at these low concentrations. We conclude by suggesting that our laboratory results can be translated into clinical practice by incorporating C3 and TNF-α measurements into broad spectrum analysis assays, like multiplex technology, as a step closer to a patient-orientated, precision medicine approach.
Atypical changes in DRG neuron excitability and complex pain phenotype associated with a Nav1.7 mutation that massively hyperpolarizes activation
Authors: Huang Jianying , Mis Malgorzata A. , Tanaka Brian , Adi Talia , Estacion Mark , Liu Shujun , Walker Suellen , Dib-Hajj Sulayman D. , Waxman Stephen G.
Published: January 2018

Sodium channel Nav1.7 plays a central role in pain-signaling: gain-of-function Nav1.7 mutations usually cause severe pain and loss-of-function mutations produce insensitivity to pain. The Nav1.7 I234T gain-of-function mutation, however, is linked to a dual clinical presentation of episodic pain, together with absence of pain following fractures, and corneal anesthesia. How a Nav1.7 mutation that produces gain-of-function at the channel level causes clinical loss-of-function has remained enigmatic. We show by current-clamp that expression of I234T in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons produces a range of membrane depolarizations including a massive shift to >−40 mV that reduces excitability in a small number of neurons. Dynamic-clamp permitted us to mimic the heterozygous condition via replacement of 50% endogenous wild-type Nav1.7 channels by I234T, and confirmed that the I234T conductance could drastically depolarize DRG neurons, resulting in loss of excitability. We conclude that attenuation of pain sensation by I234T is caused by massively depolarized membrane potential of some DRG neurons which is partly due to enhanced overlap between activation and fast-inactivation, impairing their ability to fire. Our results demonstrate how a Nav1.7 mutation that produces channel gain-of-function can contribute to a dual clinical presentation that includes loss of pain sensation at the clinical level.
Communication between the leaflets of asymmetric membranes revealed from coarse-grain molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Shearer Jonathan , Khalid Syma
Published: January 2018

We use coarse-grain molecular simulations to investigate the structural and dynamics differences between an asymmetric and a symmetrical membrane, both containing beta barrel transmembrane proteins. We find in where the dynamics of the two leaflets differ greatly, the slowest leaflet dominates the structural effects and importance of protein-lipid interactions.
Introducing the Global Register of Introduced and Invasive Species
Authors: Pagad Shyama , Genovesi Piero , Carnevali Lucilla , Schigel Dmitry , McGeoch Melodie A.
Published: January 2018

Harmonised, representative data on the state of biological invasions remain inadequate at country and global scales, particularly for taxa that affect biodiversity and ecosystems. Information is not readily available in a form suitable for policy and reporting. The Global Register of Introduced and Invasive Species (GRIIS) provides the first country-wise checklists of introduced (naturalised) and invasive species. GRIIS was conceived to provide a sustainable platform for information delivery to support national governments. We outline the rationale and methods underpinning GRIIS, to facilitate transparent, repeatable analysis and reporting. Twenty country checklists are presented as exemplars; GRIIS Checklists for close to all countries globally will be submitted through the same process shortly. Over 11000 species records are currently in the 20 country exemplars alone, with environmental impact evidence for just over 20% of these. GRIIS provides significant support for countries to identify and prioritise invasive alien species, and establishes national and global baselines. In future this will enable a global system for sustainable monitoring of trends in biological invasions that affect the environment.
The impact of new transportation modes on population distribution in Jing-Jin-Ji region of China
Authors: Wang Lizhe , Chen Lajiao
Published: January 2018

This paper conducts a novel study in China’s Jing-Jin-Ji region to investigate the determinants of population distribution and short-term migration based on a comprehensive dataset including traditional census data, earth observation data, and emerging Internet data. Our results show that due to the high level of urbanization in this region, natural conditions are no longer the strongest determinants of population distribution. New transportation modes, such as high-speed rail, have arisen as a significant determinant of population distribution and short-term migration, particularly in large cities. Socio-economic factors such as GDP, investment, urbanization level, and technology, which are traditionally assumed to govern population distribution and short-term migration, have less influence although education still remains an important factor affecting population distribution. These findings will contribute valuable information to regional planning decision-making in the Jing-Jin-Ji region.
Hydrotalcite based Ni–Fe/(Mg, Al)Ox catalysts for CO2 methanation – tailoring Fe content for improved CO dissociation, basicity, and particle size
Authors: Mebrahtu C. , Krebs F. , Perathoner S. , Abate S. , Centi G. , Palkovits R.
Published: January 2018

Advantages of hydrotalcite-like precursors and the synergistic effect of bimetallic Ni–Fe alloys are combined and the most appropriate amount of Fe identified with respect to activity, selectivity and stability.
Carbohydrate metabolism and gene expression of sirtuin 1 in healthy subjects after Sacha inchi oil supplementation: a randomized trial
Authors: Alayón A. N. , Ortega Avila J. G. , Echeverri Jiménez I.
Published: January 2018

The addition of Sacha inchi oil improved insulin sensitivity in people with higher glycemic response after a fat load.
Enhanced delivery of siRNA to triple negative breast cancer cells in vitro and in vivo through functionalizing lipid-coated calcium phosphate nanoparticles with dual target ligands
Authors: Tang Jie , Howard Christopher B. , Mahler Stephen M. , Thurecht Kristofer J. , Huang Leaf , Xu Zhi Ping
Published: January 2018

An optimized dual-target lipid-coated calcium phosphate-based nanoplatform efficiently delivers the drug/gene to triple-negative human breast tumor cells in vitro and in vivo.
Recent synthetic studies towards natural products via [5 + 2] cycloaddition reactions
Authors: Liu Xin , Hu Ya-Jian , Fan Jian-Hong , Zhao Jing , Li Shaoping , Li Chuang-Chuang
Published: January 2018

In this review, we provide a summary of recent progress regarding synthetic studies towards natural products via [5 + 2] cycloaddition reactions.
Coupling free energy and surface anchoring mechanism in gold nanorod–nematic liquid crystal dispersions
Authors: Wang Qi , Liu Liying , Xu Lei
Published: January 2018

Dependence of both the induced optical birefringence signals and simulated free energy ftotal with the pump H.
Improved conductivity and electrochemical properties of LiNi0.5Co0.2Mn0.3O2 materials via yttrium doping
Authors: Zhao Xinxin , Liang Guangchuan , Liu Hao , Liu Yuanyuan
Published: January 2018

The performances of LiNi0.5Co0.2Mn0.3O2 are enhanced by yttrium doping.
AS1411 aptamer conjugated gold nanoclusters as a targeted radiosensitizer for megavoltage radiation therapy of 4T1 breast cancer cells
Authors: Ghahremani Fatemeh , Shahbazi-Gahrouei Daryoush , Kefayat Amirhosein , Motaghi Hasan , Mehrgardi Masoud A. , Javanmard Shaghayegh Haghjooy
Published: January 2018

In the present study, AS1411 aptamer conjugated gold nanoclusters (GNCs) have been introduced as a targeted radiosensitizer for enhancing megavoltage radiation therapy efficacy.
A fast-responsive two-photon fluorescent probe for in vivo imaging superoxide radical anion with a large stokes shift
Authors: Xuan Yunpeng , Qu Jianbo
Published: January 2018

A novel and simple two-photon fluorescent probe NS-O for the detection of superoxide radical anion (O2˙−) with a large turn-on fluorescence signal is constructed to monitor endogenous superoxide radical anions in living cells, tissues and zebrafish.
Highly-sensitive detection of eight typical fluoroquinolone antibiotics by capillary electrophoresis-mass spectroscopy coupled with immunoaffinity extraction
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Hui , Deng Yan , Zhao Ming-Zhe , Zhou Ying-Lin , Zhang Xin-Xiang
Published: January 2018

An off-line procedure, immunoaffinity extraction (IAE), followed by capillary electrophoresis-mass spectroscopy (CE-MS) has been developed for the simultaneous determination of eight typical FQs in environmental water samples.
Significantly enhanced dielectric and hydrophobic properties of SiO2@MgO/PMMA composite films
Authors: Xia Yuting , Chen Jiayun , Zhu Zhicai , Zhang Qilong , Yang Hui , Wang Qianqian
Published: January 2018

In this article, we provide a feasible method to prepare high-dielectric-constant hydrophobic composite films, which show potential application as the insulator layer in electrowetting devices.
Kinetic and mechanistic study on gas phase reactions of ozone with a series ofcis-3-hexenyl esters
Authors: Zhang Qilei , Lin Xiaoxiao , Gai Yanbo , Ma Qiao , Zhao Weixiong , Fang Bo , Long Bo , Zhang Weijun
Published: January 2018

Reaction kinetics of O3with fourcis-3-hexenyl esters were studied using experimental methods in a flow tube reactor as well as using theoretical methods.
Apoptosis induction and cell cycle arrest induced by Sinkiangenone B, a novel phenylpropanoid derivative from the resin of Ferula sinkiangensis K. M. Shen
Authors: Wang Junchi , Gao Yuan , Wang Huijuan , Chen Lihua , Cao Li , Xu Jianguo , Li Xiaojin , Zhao Yaqin , Zhu Jun , Si Jianyong
Published: January 2018

A new compound from Ferula sinkiangensis has the potential to treat gastric cancer through apoptosis induction and cell cycle arrest.
Sticky-note supercapacitors
Authors: Cao Jingyu , Zhao Yang , Xu Yifan , Zhang Ye , Zhang Bo , Peng Huisheng
Published: January 2018

Novel sticky-note supercapacitors with repeated adhesive performance are fabricated from sticky carbon nanotube array electrodes. The supercapacitors can be repeatedly attached onto various substrates, and they can also be brought into direct contact with each other to power external electronic devices as their contacting layers are electrically conductive. They are flexible with high specific capacitances after attaching and removing.
Supramolecular design principles for efficient photoresponsive polymer–azobenzene complexes
Authors: Vapaavuori Jaana , Bazuin C. Geraldine , Priimagi Arri
Published: January 2018

Recent progress in photoresponsive polymers based on three common supramolecular design strategies, namely ionic, hydrogen and halogen bonding, is reviewed.
A fluorescent wearable platform for sweat Cl− analysis and logic smart-device fabrication based on color adjustable lanthanide MOFs
Authors: Xu Xiao-Yu , Yan Bing
Published: January 2018

By integrating a flexible host material (cotton piece) and two fluorescent materials (DUT-101 and Ag+/Eu3+@UiO-67), a wearable sweat Cl− monitoring platform has been prepared, and by designing Cl− and fluorescence signal to logic circuit, a codec device was constructed that can be set as a mimetic “indicator light”.
Changes in silica nanoparticles upon internalisation by cells: size, aggregation/agglomeration state, mass- and number-based concentrations
Authors: Bartczak Dorota , Davies Julie , Gollwitzer Christian , Krumrey Michael , Goenaga-Infante Heidi
Published: January 2018

Complex physicochemical changes in the characteristics of silica particles internalised by cells were determined with a methodology of utilising field-flow fractionation.
Hydrogenation of fourteen biomass-derived phenolics in water and in methanol: their distinct reaction behaviours
Authors: Zhang Lijun , Hu Guangzhi , Hu Song , Xiang Jun , Hu Xun , Wang Yi , Geng Dongsheng
Published: January 2018

The functionalities of syringaldehyde have distinct reactivities towards hydrogenation in water and in methanol and stereoselectivity was also observed.
Fast vanishing point detection method based on road border region estimation
Authors: Wang Ende , Sun Anan , Li Yong , Hou Xukui , Zhu Yalong
Published: January 2018

The vanishing point is the converging point at which the road boundaries extend to the distance. It can be used to estimate the road region in a complicated environment. As the vanishing point detection algorithms for the unstructured road often take long time and they could not adapt to the image with complex environment of the road, in this study, the authors propose a vanishing point estimation method based on road boundaries region estimation. This method uses the boundary direction of the voting points in the border region to estimate the vanishing point by the line‐soft‐voting based on maximum weight. This method has fast calculation speed, and it can overcome the influence of the shadow and the complex environment on the surface of the road in many cases.
Wideband dual‐polarised SAW spiral antenna for monopulse system
Authors: Mehboodi Elahe , Movahhedi Masoud , Heidari Abbasali
Published: January 2018

This study proposes a new technique for generating dual polarisation in spiral antennas. The proposed antenna is achieved by creating stair discontinuities in spiral antenna arms, entitled stair arm width (SAW) spiral antenna. Commonly, the spiral antenna is activated in direction finding systems, especially in wideband monopulse systems. Capability of generating sum and difference beams over a wide bandwidth is another feature of the proposed antenna. Radiation characteristics and generated modes of a wideband dual polarised four‐arm SAW antenna in comparison with the modulated arm width (MAW) and conventional spiral antennas are presented. The cross‐polarisation gain of SAW antenna, compared to MAW antenna, is decreased in difference pattern, which improves the antenna circular polarisation purity. Moreover, the input impedance of the proposed antenna with high ns is more stable than MAW antenna over a wide bandwidth due to gradual discontinuities. Finally, a prototype four‐arm SAW spiral antenna is built and evaluated with an available beamformer for 5.8–10 GHz frequency bandwidth. Simulated and measured radiation characteristics proved dual circularly polarised and wideband properties of the antenna.
Two‐dimensional electro‐optic delayed feedback system with electrical and optical coupling
Authors: Miao Suoxia , Liu Lingfeng
Published: January 2018

A novel coupled electro‐optic delayed feedback chaotic system is proposed and studied here. Both electrical coupling and optical coupling are used in this model, where electrical coupling is mainly used to suppress the time‐delay signature, and optical coupling is mainly used to improve its complexity. The dynamical performances and complexity are demonstrated, and the simulation results show that the complexity of this model has been greatly improved. Moreover, the time‐delay signature cannot be recognised with a low gain, and the suppress effect will be enhanced by increasing the gain coefficient. Comparing with other recently proposed models, the authors model is competitive in security, and has potential applications in secure communication and random number generation.
Analysis of well rod pump equipment work capability indicators
Authors: Zuleykha Eyvazova , Tarlan Farajov
Published: January 2018

The aim of this research study is to find a new model of well rod pump which is less cost compare than previous models. The construction of well rod pump changed and this will lead to the use of low‐energy consumption electrical motor at well rod pump drive unit. This is achieved by decreasing weight of drive unit by using composite materials. This is achieved by changing some parameters of drive unit: departure changeover interval from 3 to 6 m and maximum loading at the suspension point of rods 150 kN.