bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epigallocatechin-3-gallate opposes HBV-induced incomplete autophagy by enhancing lysosomal acidification, which is unfavorable for HBV replication
Authors: Zhong L , Hu J , Shu W , Gao B , Xiong S
Published: May 2015

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a major polyphenol in green tea, exhibits diverse beneficial properties, including antiviral activity. Autophagy is a cellular process that is involved in the degradation of long-lived proteins and damaged organelles. Recent evidence indicates that modulation of autophagy is a potential therapeutic strategy for various viral diseases. In the present study, we investigated the effect of EGCG on hepatitis B virus (HBV) replication and the possible involvement of autophagy in this process. Our results showed that HBV induced autophagosome formation, which was required for replication of itself. However, although EGCG efficiently inhibited HBV replication, it enhanced, but not inhibited, autophagosome formation in hepatoma cells. Further study showed that HBV induced an incomplete autophagy, while EGCG, similar to starvation, was able to induce a complete autophagic process, which appeared to be unfavorable for HBV replication. Furthermore, it was found that HBV induced an incomplete autophagy by impairing lysosomal acidification, while it lost this ability in the presence of EGCG. Taken together, these data demonstrated that EGCG treatment opposed HBV-induced incomplete autophagy via enhancing lysosomal acidification, which was unfavorable for HBV replication.
Activation of NRG1-ERBB4 signaling potentiates mesenchymal stem cell-mediated myocardial repairs following myocardial infarction
Authors: Liang X , Ding Y , Zhang Y , Chai Y-H , He J , Chiu S-M , Gao F , Tse H-F , Lian Q
Published: May 2015

Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation has achieved only modest success in the treatment of ischemic heart disease owing to poor cell viability in the diseased microenvironment. Activation of the NRG1 (neuregulin1)-ERBB4 (v-erb-b2 avian erythroblastic leukemia viral oncogene homolog 4) signaling pathway has been shown to stimulate mature cardiomyocyte cell cycle re-entry and cell division. In this connection, we aimed to determine whether overexpression of ERBB4 in MSCs can enhance their cardio-protective effects following myocardial infarction. NRG1, MSCs or MSC-ERBB4 (MSC with ERBB4 overexpression), were transplanted into mice following myocardial infarction. Superior to that of MSCs and solely NRG1, MSC-ERBB4 transplantation significantly preserved heart functions accompanied with reduced infarct size, enhanced cardiomyocyte division and less apoptosis during early phase of infarction. The transduction of ERBB4 into MSCs indeed increased cell mobility and apoptotic resistance under hypoxic and glucose-deprived conditions via a PI3K/Akt signaling pathway in the presence of NRG1. Unexpectedly, introduction of ERBB4 into MSC in turn potentiates NRG1 synthesis and secretion, thus forming a novel NRG1-ERBB4-NRG1 autocrine loop. Conditioned medium of MSC-ERBB4 containing elevated NRG1, promoted cardiomyocyte growth and division, whereas neutralization of NRG1 blunted this proliferation. These findings collectively suggest that ERBB4 overexpression potentiates MSC survival in the infarcted heart, enhances NRG1 generation to restore declining NRG1 in the infarcted region and stimulates cardiomyocyte division. ERBB4 has an important role in MSC-mediated myocardial repairs.
A common assembly module in injectisome and flagellar type III secretion sorting platforms
Authors: Notti Ryan Q. , Bhattacharya Shibani , Lilic Mirjana , Stebbins C. Erec
Published: May 2015

Translocating proteins across the double membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, type III secretion systems (T3SS) occur in two evolutionarily related forms: injectisomes, delivering virulence factors into host cells, and the flagellar system, secreting the polymeric filament used for motility. While both systems share related elements of a cytoplasmic sorting platform that facilitates the hierarchical secretion of protein substrates, its assembly and regulation remain unclear. Here we describe a module mediating the assembly of the sorting platform in both secretion systems, and elucidate the structural basis for segregation of homologous components among these divergent T3SS subtypes sharing a common cytoplasmic milieu. These results provide a foundation for the subtype-specific assembly of T3SS sorting platforms and will support further mechanistic analysis and anti-virulence drug design.
Major histocompatibility complex associations of ankylosing spondylitis are complex and involve further epistasis with ERAP1
Authors: Cortes Adrian , Pulit Sara L. , Leo Paul J. , Pointon Jenny J. , Robinson Philip C. , Weisman Michael H. , Ward Michael , Gensler Lianne S. , Zhou Xiaodong , Garchon Henri-Jean , Chiocchia Gilles , Nossent Johannes , Lie Benedicte A. , Førre Øystein , Tuomilehto Jaakko , Laiho Kari , Bradbury Linda A. , Elewaut Dirk , Burgos-Vargas Ruben , Stebbings Simon , Appleton Louise , Farrah Claire , Lau Jonathan , Haroon Nigil , Mulero Juan , Blanco Francisco J. , Gonzalez-Gay Miguel A. , Lopez-Larrea C , Bowness Paul , Gaffney Karl , Gaston Hill , Gladman Dafna D. , Rahman Proton , Maksymowych Walter P. , Crusius J. Bart A. , van der Horst-Bruinsma Irene E. , Valle-Oñate Raphael , Romero-Sánchez Consuelo , Hansen Inger Myrnes , Pimentel-Santos Fernando M. , Inman Robert D. , Martin Javier , Breban Maxime , Wordsworth Bryan Paul , Reveille John D. , Evans David M. , de Bakker Paul I.W. , Brown Matthew A.
Published: May 2015

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a common, highly heritable, inflammatory arthritis for which HLA-B*27 is the major genetic risk factor, although its role in the aetiology of AS remains elusive. To better understand the genetic basis of the MHC susceptibility loci, we genotyped 7,264 MHC SNPs in 22,647 AS cases and controls of European descent. We impute SNPs, classical HLA alleles and amino-acid residues within HLA proteins, and tested these for association to AS status. Here we show that in addition to effects due to HLA-B*27 alleles, several other HLA-B alleles also affect susceptibility. After controlling for the associated haplotypes in HLA-B, we observe independent associations with variants in the HLA-A, HLA-DPB1 and HLA-DRB1 loci. We also demonstrate that the ERAP1 SNP rs30187 association is not restricted only to carriers of HLA-B*27 but also found in HLA-B*40:01 carriers independently of HLA-B*27 genotype.
Large-scale spatiotemporal spike patterning consistent with wave propagation in motor cortex
Authors: Takahashi Kazutaka , Kim Sanggyun , Coleman Todd P. , Brown Kevin A. , Suminski Aaron J. , Best Matthew D. , Hatsopoulos Nicholas G.
Published: May 2015

Aggregate signals in cortex are known to be spatiotemporally organized as propagating waves across the cortical surface, but it remains unclear whether the same is true for spiking activity in individual neurons. Furthermore, the functional interactions between cortical neurons are well documented but their spatial arrangement on the cortical surface has been largely ignored. Here we use a functional network analysis to demonstrate that a subset of motor cortical neurons in non-human primates spatially coordinate their spiking activity in a manner that closely matches wave propagation measured in the beta oscillatory band of the local field potential. We also demonstrate that sequential spiking of pairs of neuron contains task-relevant information that peaks when the neurons are spatially oriented along the wave axis. We hypothesize that the spatial anisotropy of spike patterning may reflect the underlying organization of motor cortex and may be a general property shared by other cortical areas.
Three-dimensional positioning and control of colloidal objects utilizing engineered liquid crystalline defect networks
Authors: Yoshida H. , Asakura K. , Fukuda J. , Ozaki M.
Published: May 2015

Topological defects in liquid crystals not only affect the optical and rheological properties of the host, but can also act as scaffolds in which to trap nano or micro-sized colloidal objects. The creation of complex defect shapes, however, often involves confining the liquid crystals in curved geometries or adds complex-shaped colloidal objects, which are unsuitable for device applications. Using topologically patterned substrates, here we demonstrate the controlled generation of three-dimensional defect lines with non-trivial shapes and even chirality, in a flat slab of nematic liquid crystal. By using the defect lines as templates and the electric response of the liquid crystals, colloidal superstructures are constructed, which can be reversibly reconfigured at a voltage as low as 1.3 V. Three-dimensional engineering of the defect shapes in liquid crystals is potentially useful in the fabrication of self-healing composites and in stabilizing artificial frustrated phases.
Total synthesis of (+)-gelsemine via an organocatalytic Diels–Alder approach
Authors: Chen Xiaoming , Duan Shengguo , Tao Cheng , Zhai Hongbin , Qiu Fayang G.
Published: May 2015

The structurally complex alkaloid gelsemine was previously thought to have no significant biological activities, but a recent study has shown that it has potent and specific antinociception in chronic pain. While this molecule has attracted significant interests from the synthetic community, an efficient synthetic strategy is still the goal of many synthetic chemists. Here we report the asymmetric total synthesis of (+)-gelsemine, including a highly diastereoselective and enantioselective organocatalytic Diels–Alder reaction, an efficient intramolecular trans-annular aldol condensation furnishing the prolidine ring and establishing the configuration of the C20 quaternary carbon stereochemical centre. The entire gelsemine skeleton was constructed through a late-stage intramolecular SN2 substitution. The enantiomeric excess of this total synthesis is over 99%, and the overall yield is around 5%.
Essential Genes in the Core Genome of the Human Pathogen Streptococcus pyogenes
Authors: Le Breton Yoann , Belew Ashton T. , Valdes Kayla M. , Islam Emrul , Curry Patrick , Tettelin Hervé , Shirtliff Mark E. , El-Sayed Najib M. , McIver Kevin S.
Published: May 2015

Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Streptococcus, GAS) remains a major public health burden worldwide, infecting over 750 million people leading to over 500,000 deaths annually. GAS pathogenesis is complex, involving genetically distinct GAS strains and multiple infection sites. To overcome fastidious genetic manipulations and accelerate pathogenesis investigations in GAS, we developed a mariner-based system (Krmit) for en masse monitoring of complex mutant pools by transposon sequencing (Tn-seq). Highly saturated transposant libraries (Krmit insertions in ca. every 25 nucleotides) were generated in two distinct GAS clinical isolates, a serotype M1T1 invasive strain 5448 and a nephritogenic serotype M49 strain NZ131 and analyzed using a Bayesian statistical model to predict GAS essential genes, identifying sets of 227 and 241 of those genes in 5448 and NZ131, respectively. A large proportion of GAS essential genes corresponded to key cellular processes and metabolic pathways and 177 were found conserved within the GAS core genome established from 20 available GAS genomes. Selected essential genes were validated using conditional-expression mutants. Finally, comparison to previous essentiality analyses in S. sanguinis and S. pneumoniae revealed significant overlaps, providing valuable insights for the development of new antimicrobials to treat infections by GAS and other pathogenic streptococci.
Physiologically motivated multiplex Kuramoto model describes phase diagram of cortical activity
Authors: Sadilek Maximilian , Thurner Stefan
Published: May 2015

We derive a two-layer multiplex Kuramoto model from Wilson-Cowan type physiological equations that describe neural activity on a network of interconnected cortical regions. This is mathematically possible due to the existence of a unique, stable limit cycle, weak coupling and inhibitory synaptic time delays. We study the phase diagram of this model numerically as a function of the inter-regional connection strength that is related to cerebral blood flow and a phase shift parameter that is associated with synaptic GABA concentrations. We find three macroscopic phases of cortical activity: background activity (unsynchronized oscillations), epileptiform activity (highly synchronized oscillations) and resting-state activity (synchronized clusters/chaotic behaviour). Previous network models could hitherto not explain the existence of all three phases. We further observe a shift of the average oscillation frequency towards lower values together with the appearance of coherent slow oscillations at the transition from resting-state to epileptiform activity. This observation is fully in line with experimental data and could explain the influence of GABAergic drugs both on gamma oscillations and epileptic states. Compared to previous models for gamma oscillations and resting-state activity, the multiplex Kuramoto model not only provides a unifying framework, but also has a direct connection to measurable physiological parameters.
A bifractal nature of reticular patterns induced by oxygen plasma on polymer films
Authors: Bae Junwan , Lee I. J.
Published: May 2015

Plasma etching was demonstrated to be a promising tool for generating self-organized nano-patterns on various commercial films. Unfortunately, dynamic scaling approach toward fundamental understanding of the formation and growth of the plasma-induced nano-structure has not always been straightforward. The temporal evolution of self-aligned nano-patterns may often evolve with an additional scale-invariance, which leads to breakdown of the well-established dynamic scaling law. The concept of a bifractal interface is successfully applied to reticular patterns induced by oxygen plasma on the surface of polymer films. The reticular pattern, composed of nano-size self-aligned protuberances and underlying structure, develops two types of anomalous dynamic scaling characterized by super-roughening and intrinsic anomalous scaling, respectively. The diffusion and aggregation of short-cleaved chains under the plasma environment are responsible for the regular distribution of the nano-size protuberances. Remarkably, it is uncovered that the dynamic roughening of the underlying structure is governed by a relaxation mechanism described by the Edwards-Wilkinson universality class with a conservative noise. The evidence for the basic phase, characterized by the negative roughness and growth exponents, has been elusive since its first theoretical consideration more than two decades ago.
Cloning and characterization of farnesyl pyrophosphate synthase from the highly branched isoprenoid producing diatom Rhizosolenia setigera
Authors: Ferriols Victor Marco Emmanuel N. , Yaginuma Ryoko , Adachi Masao , Takada Kentaro , Matsunaga Shigeki , Okada Shigeru
Published: May 2015

The diatom Rhizosolenia setigera Brightwell produces highly branched isoprenoid (HBI) hydrocarbons that are ubiquitously present in marine environments. The hydrocarbon composition of R. setigera varies between C25 and C30 HBIs depending on the life cycle stage with regard to auxosporulation. To better understand how these hydrocarbons are biosynthesized, we characterized the farnesyl pyrophosphate (FPP) synthase (FPPS) enzyme of R. setigera. An isolated 1465-bp cDNA clone contained an open reading frame spanning 1299-bp encoding a protein with 432 amino acid residues. Expression of the RsFPPS cDNA coding region in Escherichia coli produced a protein that exhibited FPPS activity in vitro. A reduction in HBI content from diatoms treated with an FPPS inhibitor, risedronate, suggested that RsFPPS supplies precursors for HBI biosynthesis. Product analysis by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry also revealed that RsFPPS produced small amounts of the cis-isomers of geranyl pyrophosphate and FPP, candidate precursors for the cis-isomers of HBIs previously characterized. Furthermore, RsFPPS gene expression at various life stages of R. setigera in relation to auxosporulation were also analyzed. Herein, we present data on the possible role of RsFPPS in HBI biosynthesis and it is to our knowledge the first instance that an FPPS was cloned and characterized from a diatom.
Meta-analysis reveals the correlation of Notch signaling with non-small cell lung cancer progression and prognosis
Authors: Yuan Xun , Wu Hua , Xu Hanxiao , Han Na , Chu Qian , Yu Shiying , Chen Yuan , Wu Kongming
Published: May 2015

Various studies have assessed the clinicopathological and prognostic value of Notch1 and Notch3 expression in Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), but their results remain controversial. This meta-analysis was conducted to address the above issues by using a total of 19 studies involving 3663 patients. The correlations between Notch1 and Notch3 expression and clinicopathological features and NSCLC prognosis were analyzed. The meta-analysis indicated that higher expression of Notch1 was associated with greater possibility of lymph node metastasis and higher TNM stages. Moreover, patients with Notch1 overexpression and Notch3 overexpression showed significantly poor overall survival (Notch1: HR, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.06–1.57, p = 0.468 and I2 = 0.0%; Notch3: HR, 1.57; 95%CI, 1.04-2.36, p = 0.445 and I2 = 0.0%). Furthermore, there are statistically significant association between overall survival of NSCLC patients and the expression of Notch signaling ligand DLL3 and target gene HES1. Our meta-analysis supports that Notch signaling is a valuable bio-marker to predict progression and targeting Notch signaling could benefit subpopulation of NSCLC patients.
A method to determine the duration of the eclipse phase for in vitro infection with a highly pathogenic SHIV strain
Authors: Kakizoe Yusuke , Nakaoka Shinji , Beauchemin Catherine A. A. , Morita Satoru , Mori Hiromi , Igarashi Tatsuhiko , Aihara Kazuyuki , Miura Tomoyuki , Iwami Shingo
Published: May 2015

The time elapsed between successful cell infection and the start of virus production is called the eclipse phase. Its duration is specific to each virus strain and, along with an effective virus production rate, plays a key role in infection kinetics. How the eclipse phase varies amongst cells infected with the same virus strain and therefore how best to mathematically represent its duration is not clear. Most mathematical models either neglect this phase or assume it is exponentially distributed, such that at least some if not all cells can produce virus immediately upon infection. Biologically, this is unrealistic (one must allow for the translation, transcription, export, etc. to take place), but could be appropriate if the duration of the eclipse phase is negligible on the time-scale of the infection. If it is not, however, ignoring this delay affects the accuracy of the mathematical model, its parameter estimates and predictions. Here, we introduce a new approach, consisting in a carefully designed experiment and simple analytical expressions, to determine the duration and distribution of the eclipse phase in vitro. We find that the eclipse phase of SHIV-KS661 lasts on average one day and is consistent with an Erlang distribution.
Analysis of large mutations in BARD1 in patients with breast and/or ovarian cancer: the Polish population as an example
Authors: Klonowska Katarzyna , Ratajska Magdalena , Czubak Karol , Kuzniacka Alina , Brozek Izabela , Koczkowska Magdalena , Sniadecki Marcin , Debniak Jaroslaw , Wydra Dariusz , Balut Magdalena , Stukan Maciej , Zmienko Agnieszka , Nowakowska Beata , Irminger-Finger Irmgard , Limon Janusz , Kozlowski Piotr
Published: May 2015

Only approximately 50% of all familial breast cancers can be explained by known genetic factors, including mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2. One of the most extensively studied candidates for breast and/or ovarian cancer susceptibility is BARD1. Although it was suggested that large mutations may contribute substantially to the deleterious variants of BARD1, no systematic study of the large mutations in BARD1 has been performed. To further elucidate the role of large mutations in BARD1, we designed a multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) assay and performed an analysis of 504 women with a familial breast and/or ovarian cancer and 313 patients with ovarian cancer. The investigation did not reveal any large mutations in the BARD1 gene. Although the analysis was not focused on identification of small mutations, we detected seven deleterious or potentially deleterious point mutations, which contribute substantially to the total number of BARD1 mutations detected so far. In conclusion, although we cannot exclude the presence of large mutations in BARD1, our study indicates that such mutations do not contribute substantially to the risk of breast and/or ovarian cancer. However, it has to be noted that our results may be specific to the Polish population.
Reactively sputtered nickel nitride as electrocatalytic counter electrode for dye- and quantum dot-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Soo Kang Jin , Park Min-Ah , Kim Jae-Yup , Ha Park Sun , Young Chung Dong , Yu Seung-Ho , Kim Jin , Park Jongwoo , Choi Jung-Woo , Jae Lee Kyung , Jeong Juwon , Jae Ko Min , Ahn Kwang-Soon , Sung Yung-Eun
Published: May 2015

Nickel nitride electrodes were prepared by reactive sputtering of nickel under a N2 atmosphere at room temperature for application in mesoscopic dye- or quantum dot- sensitized solar cells. This facile and reliable method led to the formation of a Ni2N film with a cauliflower-like nanostructure and tetrahedral crystal lattice. The prepared nickel nitride electrodes exhibited an excellent chemical stability toward both iodide and polysulfide redox electrolytes. Compared to conventional Pt electrodes, the nickel nitride electrodes showed an inferior electrocatalytic activity for the iodide redox electrolyte; however, it displayed a considerably superior electrocatalytic activity for the polysulfide redox electrolyte. As a result, compared to dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs), with a conversion efficiency (η) = 7.62% and CdSe-based quantum dot-sensitized solar cells (QDSCs, η = 2.01%) employing Pt counter electrodes (CEs), the nickel nitride CEs exhibited a lower conversion efficiency (η = 3.75%) when applied to DSCs, but an enhanced conversion efficiency (η = 2.80%) when applied to CdSe-based QDSCs.
Effect of Myopic Defocus on Visual Acuity after Phakic Intraocular Lens Implantation and Wavefront-guided Laser in Situ Keratomileusis
Authors: Kamiya Kazutaka , Shimizu Kimiya , Igarashi Akihito , Kawamorita Takushi
Published: May 2015

This study aimed to investigate the effect of myopic defocus on visual acuity after phakic intraocular lens (IOL) implantation and wavefront-guided laser in situ keratomileusis (wfg-LASIK). Our prospective study comprised thirty eyes undergoing posterior chamber phakic IOL implantation and 30 eyes undergoing wfg-LASIK. We randomly measured visual acuity under myopic defocus after cycloplegic and non-cycloplegic correction. We also calculated the modulation transfer function by optical simulation and estimated visual acuity from Campbell & Green’s retinal threshold curve. Visual acuity in the phakic IOL group was significantly better than that in the wfg-LASIK group at myopic defocus levels of 0, –1 and –2 D (p < 0.001, p < 0.001 and p = 0.02, Mann-Whitney U-test), but not at a defocus of –3 D (p = 0.30). Similar results were also obtained in a cycloplegic condition. Decimal visual acuity values at a myopic defocus of 0, −1, −2 and -3 D by optical simulation were estimated to be 1.95, 1.21, 0.97 and 0.75 in the phakic IOL group and 1.39, 1.11, 0.94 and 0.71 in the wfg-LASIK group, respectively. From clinical and optical viewpoints, phakic IOL implantation was superior to wfg-LASIK in terms of the postoperative visual performance, even in the presence of low to moderate myopic regression.
Hand Washing Induces a Clean Slate Effect in Moral Judgments: A Pupillometry and Eye-Tracking Study
Authors: Kaspar Kai , Krapp Vanessa , König Peter
Published: May 2015

Physical cleansing is commonly understood to protect us against physical contamination. However, recent studies showed additional effects on moral judgments. Under the heading of the “Macbeth effect” direct links between bodily cleansing and one’s own moral purity have been demonstrated. Here we investigate (1) how moral judgments develop over time and how they are altered by hand washing, (2) whether changes in moral judgments can be explained by altered information sampling from the environment and (3) whether hand washing affects emotional arousal. Using a pre-post control group design, we found that morality ratings of morally good and bad scenes acquired more extreme values in the control group over time, an effect that was fully counteracted by intermediate hand washing. This result supports the notion of a clean slate effect by hand washing. Thereby, eye-tracking data did not uncover differences in eye movement behavior that may explain differences in moral judgments. Thus, the clean slate effect is not due to altered information sampling from the environment. Finally, compared to the control group, pupil diameter decreased after hand washing, thus demonstrating a direct physiological effect. The results shed light on the physiological mechanisms behind this type of embodiment phenomenon.
Gene targeting by TALEN-induced homologous recombination in goats directs production of β-lactoglobulin-free, high-human lactoferrin milk
Authors: Cui Chenchen , Song Yujie , Liu Jun , Ge Hengtao , Li Qian , Huang Hui , Hu Linyong , Zhu Hongmei , Jin Yaping , Zhang Yong
Published: May 2015

β-Lactoglobulin (BLG) is a major goat’s milk allergen that is absent in human milk. Engineered endonucleases, including transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs) and zinc-finger nucleases, enable targeted genetic modification in livestock. In this study, TALEN-mediated gene knockout followed by gene knock-in were used to generate BLG knockout goats as mammary gland bioreactors for large-scale production of human lactoferrin (hLF). We introduced precise genetic modifications in the goat genome at frequencies of approximately 13.6% and 6.09% for the first and second sequential targeting, respectively, by using targeting vectors that underwent TALEN-induced homologous recombination (HR). Analysis of milk from the cloned goats revealed large-scale hLF expression or/and decreased BLG levels in milk from heterozygous goats as well as the absence of BLG in milk from homozygous goats. Furthermore, the TALEN-mediated targeting events in somatic cells can be transmitted through the germline after SCNT. Our result suggests that gene targeting via TALEN-induced HR may expedite the production of genetically engineered livestock for agriculture and biomedicine.
Δ10(E)-Sphingolipid Desaturase Involved in Fusaruside Mycosynthesis and Stress Adaptation in Fusarium graminearum
Authors: Tian Yuan , Zhao Guo Y. , Fang Wei , Xu Qiang , Tan Ren X.
Published: May 2015

Sphingolipids are biologically important and structurally distinct cell membrane components. Fusaruside (1) is a 10,11-unsaturated immunosuppressive fungal sphingolipid with medical potentials for treating liver injury and colitis, but its poor natural abundance bottlenecks its druggability. Here, fusaruside is clarified biosynthetically and its efficacy-related 10,11-double bond can be generated under the regioselective catalysis of an unprecedented Δ10(E)-sphingolipid desaturase (Δ10(E)-SD). Δ10(E)-SD shares 17.7% amino acid sequence similarity with a C9-unmethylated Δ10-sphingolipid desaturase derived from a marine diatom and 55.7% with Δ8(E)-SD from Fusarium graminearum. Heterologous expression of Δ10(E)-SD in Pichia pastoris has been established to facilitate a reliable generation of 1 through the Δ10(E)-SD catalyzed desaturation of cerebroside B (2), an abundant fungal sphingolipid. Site directed mutageneses show that the conserved histidines of Δ10(E)-SD are essential for the 10,11-desaturation catalysis, which is also preconditioned by the C9-methylation of the substrate. Moreover, Δ10(E)-SD confers improved survival and faster growth to fungal strains at low temperature and high salinity, in parallel with to higher contents of 1 in the mycelia. Collectively, the investigation describes a new Δ10(E)-sphingolipid desaturase with its heterologous expression fundamentalizing a biotechnological supply of 1 and eases the follow-up clarification of the immunosuppression and stress-tolerance mechanism.
Effects of Tris(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) Phosphate (TDCPP) in Tetrahymena Thermophila: Targeting the Ribosome
Authors: Li Jing , Giesy John P. , Yu Liqin , Li Guangyu , Liu Chunsheng
Published: May 2015

Tris(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate (TDCPP) has been frequently detected in the environment and exposure to TDCPP appears widespread. It has been implicated to cause toxicity in vertebrates, but its potential to affect lower-trophic-level species remains unknown. In the present study, the ciliated protozoan, Tetrahymena thermophila, was used as a model to evaluate toxic effects of TDCPP and explore molecular mechanisms by integrating phenotypic observation, RNA-Seq and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) Imaging technologies. Exposure to 0.01, 0.1 or 1 μM TDCPP for 5 days significantly decreased the relative biomass by reducing number of cells, size of cells and quantity of cilia in a dose-dependent manner. RNA-Seq analysis demonstrated that expression of twenty-one ribosome protein genes was down-regulated and these genes were enriched in “ribosome” term in KEGG pathway analysis. Furthermore, down-regulation of genes expressing ribosome proteins was accompanied by decreased ribosome quantity in rough endoplasmic reticulum and cytoplasm and enlarged ribosome size. Therefore, taken together, the data from the present study suggest that exposure to TDCPP affects growth and reproduction of Tetrahymena thermophila by targeting the ribosome. This information might provide insights into critical mechanisms of toxic action in other species and lead to useful bioindicators of exposure to TDCPP.
Effects of thermal noise on the transitional dynamics of an inextensible elastic filament in stagnation flow
Authors: Deng Mingge , Grinberg Leopold , Caswell Bruce , Karniadakis George Em
Published: May 2015

We investigate the dynamics of a single inextensible elastic filament subject to anisotropic friction in a viscous stagnation-point flow, by employing both a continuum model represented by Langevin type stochastic partial differential equations (SPDEs) and a dissipative particle dynamics (DPD) method.
Quantitative detection of hydroxyl radicals in Fenton system by UV-vis spectrophotometry
Authors: Zhao Haiqian , Gao Jihui , Zhou Wei , Wang Zhonghua , Wu Shaohua
Published: May 2015

FeSO4was adopted to limit the extraction of FBBs to decrease the test error in the modified method.
Detection of orchid viruses by analyzing Brownian diffusion of nanobeads and virus–immunobead association
Authors: Fan Yu-Jui , Chang Ya-Chun , Teng Chao-Ti , Liao Ting-Ya , Hu Wen-Chi , Sheen Horn-Jiunn
Published: May 2015

This paper describes a new sensing technique for detecting orchid viruses by measuring the Brownian diffusion of immunobeads in liquid samples.
Electrocatalytic oxidation of N-acetyl-l-cysteine at a quercetin multiwall carbon nanotube modified GCE: application for simultaneous determination of ascorbic acid, l-DOPA, N-acetyl-l-cysteine, acetaminophen and tryptophan
Authors: Zare Hamid R. , Haji-Dehabadi Marjan , Shekari Zahra
Published: May 2015

Quercetin MWCNT modified GCEs were successfully used for N-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC) electrocatalytic oxidation and simultaneous determination of ascorbic acid, l-DOPA, NAC, acetaminophen and tryptophan.
A sputtered CdS buffer layer for co-electrodeposited Cu2ZnSnS4 solar cells with 6.6% efficiency
Authors: Tao Jiahua , Zhang Kezhi , Zhang Chuanjun , Chen Leilei , Cao Huiyi , Liu Junfeng , Jiang Jinchun , Sun Lin , Yang Pingxiong , Chu Junhao
Published: May 2015

Cu2ZnSnS4 thin films with thicknesses ranging from 0.35 to 1.85 μm and micron-sized grains (0.5–1.5 μm) were synthesized using co-electrodeposited Cu–Zn–Sn–S precursors with different deposition times.
Silicon nanowire arrays coupled with cobalt phosphide spheres as low-cost photocathodes for efficient solar hydrogen evolution
Authors: Bao Xiao-Qing , Fatima Cerqueira M. , Alpuim Pedro , Liu Lifeng
Published: May 2015

Low-cost photocathodes consisting of silicon nanowire arrays coupled with hollow spheres of the emerging earth-abundant cobalt phosphide catalysts are fabricated, which exhibit good photoelectrochemical performance toward the solar-driven H2 evolution.
Photoelectrochemical CO2 reduction using a Ru(ii)–Re(i) multinuclear metal complex on a p-type semiconducting NiO electrode
Authors: Sahara Go , Abe Ryu , Higashi Masanobu , Morikawa Takeshi , Maeda Kazuhiko , Ueda Yutaro , Ishitani Osamu
Published: May 2015

A photocathode for CO2 reduction was developed using a hybrid comprising a Ru(ii)–Re(i) supramolecular photocatalyst and a NiO electrode. Photoexcitation of the Ru photosensitizer selectively gave CO with high faradaic efficiency.
Base-free Knoevenagel condensation catalyzed by copper metal surfaces
Authors: Schneider E. M. , Zeltner M. , Kränzlin N. , Grass R. N. , Stark W. J.
Published: May 2015

Commercially available dendritic copper powder catalyses Knoevenagel condensation under mild conditions with high isolated yields obtained by filtration of Cu and subsequent recrystallization.
A polymerizable supramolecular approach for the fabrication of patterned magnetic nanoparticles
Authors: Lee Joosub , Seo Ki-Seung , Lee Chan Woo , Kim Jong-Man
Published: May 2015

A straightforward method for the preparation of patterned magnetite nanoparticles (MNPs) was developed. The polymerizable supramolecular approach afforded finely patterned MNPs on a solid substrate after a sequential UV-irradiation-wet etching-calcination process with an MNP-embedded diacetylene film.
H-Bonding and charging mediated aggregation and emission for fluorescence turn-on detection of hydrazine hydrate
Authors: Zhou Deyan , Wang Yangyang , Jia Jiong , Yu Wenzhu , Qu Baofeng , Li Xia , Sun Xuan
Published: May 2015

Aggregation modulation with “turn-on” fluorescence was realized by H-bonding and charging of molecular building blocks.
Polymerization of low molecular weight hydrogelators to form electrochromic polymers
Authors: Kubiak Peter S. , Awhida Salmah , Hotchen Christopher , Deng Wentao , Alston Ben , McDonald Tom O. , Adams Dave J. , Cameron Petra J.
Published: May 2015

We show that is possible to directly electropolymerize pre-assembled carbazole-based hydrogels to give electrochromic polymers with distinctive structure.
Sugar chain-binding specificity and native folding state of lectins preserved in hydrated ionic liquids
Authors: Fujita Kyoko , Sanada Miki , Ohno Hiroyuki
Published: May 2015

Lectins, dissolved and stored in hydrated cholinium dihydrogen phosphate, maintained recognition and binding affinity to specific sugar chains even after thermal treatment or long-term storage.
Copper(ii)/amine synergistically catalyzed enantioselective alkylation of cyclic N-acyl hemiaminals with aldehydes
Authors: Sun Shutao , Mao Ying , Lou Hongxiang , Liu Lei
Published: May 2015

A copper/amine synergistic catalytic system was developed, allowing the first catalytic asymmetric alkylation of N-acyl quinoliniums with aldehydes in high yields and excellent enantioselectivities.
An efficient transformation of primary halides into nitriles through palladium-catalyzed hydrogen transfer reaction
Authors: Zou Tao , Yu Xiaoqiang , Feng Xiujuan , Bao Ming
Published: May 2015

Two-step one-pot transformation of primary halides into the corresponding nitriles is successfully achieved under mild conditions. In this protocol, acetone functions as both a solvent and a hydrogen acceptor.
Cationic star copolymers based on β-cyclodextrins for efficient gene delivery to mouse embryonic stem cell colonies
Authors: Loh Xian Jun , Wu Yun-Long
Published: May 2015

A cationic star copolymer with a β-cyclodextrin core was developed for nonviral gene transfer to mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs).
Tunable growth of PbS quantum dot–ZnO heterostructure and mechanism analysis
Authors: Li Haili , Jiao Shujie , Li Hongtao , Li Lin , Zhang Xitian
Published: May 2015

Tunable growth of a PbS QDs on ZnO heterostructure by a room temperature SILAR method and mechanistic analysis.
Rapid and facile one-step synthesis of LiTaO3 nanorods
Authors: Jaschin P. W. , Varma K. B. R.
Published: May 2015

Second harmonic generation and piezoelectric response from LiTaO3 nanorods.
Selective growth of TiO2 beads on Ag nanowires and their photocatalytic performance
Authors: Jia Changchao , Chen Hsueh-Shih , Yang Ping
Published: May 2015

Necklace-like Ag nanowire@TiO2 heterostructures were fabricated by a two-step solvothermal method, which exhibited excellent photocatalytic performance.
C–O cleavage of aromatic oxygenates over ruthenium catalysts. A computational study of reactions at step sites
Authors: Chiu Cheng-chau , Genest Alexander , Borgna Armando , Rösch Notker
Published: May 2015

C–O scissions of catecholate and phenolate on stepped Ru surfaces have accessible barriers. Computational results illustrate that benzene formation in the hydrodeoxygenation of aromatics over Ru occurs at step sites.
Symmetries of quantum transport with Rashba spin–orbit: graphene spintronics
Authors: Chico Leonor , Latgé Andrea , Brey Luis
Published: May 2015

The lack of some spatial symmetries in planar devices with Rashba spin–orbit interactions opens up the possibility of producing spin polarized electrical currents in the absence of external magnetic fields or magnetic impurities.
Understanding of matrix embedding: a theoretical spectroscopic study of CO interacting with Ar clusters, surfaces and matrices
Authors: Mahjoubi K. , Benoit D. M. , Jaidane N.-E. , Al-Mogren M. Mogren , Hochlaf M.
Published: May 2015

Through benchmark studies, we explore the performance of PBE density functional theory, with and without Grimme's dispersion correction (DFT-D3), in predicting spectroscopic properties for molecules interacting with rare gas matrices.
Effects of heterocycles containing different atoms as π-bridges on the performance of dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Jia Hailang , Ju Xuehai , Zhang Mingdao , Ju Zemin , Zheng Hegen
Published: May 2015

The thiophene π-bridge shows a better performance compared with the furan π-bridge in DSSCs.
Pro-aromatic and anti-aromatic π-conjugated molecules: an irresistible wish to be diradicals
Authors: Zeng Zebing , Shi Xueliang , Chi Chunyan , López Navarrete Juan T. , Casado Juan , Wu Jishan
Published: May 2015

Pro-aromatic and anti-aromatic π-conjugated molecules are demonstrated to have an irresistible wish to be diradicals in the ground state.
One-pot synthesis of oxamidato-bridged hexarhenium trigonal prisms adorned with ester functionality
Authors: Nagarajaprakash R. , Govindarajan R. , Manimaran Bala.
Published: May 2015

The self-assembly of hexarhenium trigonal prisms using fac-Re(CO)3 cores (pink), bischelating oxamide ligands (green) and ester-containing tritopic linkers (blue) has been accomplished via an orthogonal bonding approach.
Mesoporous ZnAl2O4: an efficient adsorbent for the removal of arsenic from contaminated water
Authors: Kumari Vandana , Bhaumik Asim
Published: May 2015

We report for the first time an efficient soft-templating strategy for the synthesis of mesoporous ZnAl2O4 using lauric acid as a template in an alkaline water–ethanol (50 : 50) medium, which showed excellent adsorption efficiency for the removal of arsenic from contaminated water.
Lead(ii) nitrate and hexafluorosilicate complexes with neutral diphosphine coordination
Authors: Burt Jennifer , Grantham William , Levason William , Reid Gillian
Published: May 2015

Rare diphosphine complexes of Pb(NO3)2 and Pb(SiF6) all with a 1 : 1 Pb : diphosphine composition are described.
In situ synthesis of TiO2/SnOx–Au ternary heterostructures effectively promoting visible-light photocatalysis
Authors: Dong Zhao , Wu Minghua , Wu Jiaying , Ma Yuanyuan , Ma Zhenzhen
Published: May 2015

A facile method based on in situ reduction is described for constructing TiO2/SnOx–Au ternary heterostructures with enhanced photocatalytic performance.
Passive sampling for volatile organic compounds in indoor air-controlled laboratory comparison of four sampler types
Authors: McAlary Todd , Groenevelt Hester , Disher Stephen , Arnold Jason , Seethapathy Suresh , Sacco Paolo , Crump Derrick , Schumacher Brian , Hayes Heidi , Johnson Paul , Górecki Tadeusz
Published: May 2015

Correction for ‘Passive sampling for volatile organic compounds in indoor air-controlled laboratory comparison of four sampler types’ by Todd McAlary et al., Environ. Sci.: Processes Impacts, 2015, 17, 896–905.
Negative magnetophoresis in diluted ferrofluid flow
Authors: Hejazian Majid , Nguyen Nam-Trung
Published: May 2015

We report separation and mixing phenomena induced by negative magnetophoresis in a circular chamber.
Design, synthesis, and antibacterial evaluation of novel azolylthioether quinolones as MRSA DNA intercalators
Authors: Zhang Ling , Kumar Kannekanti Vijaya , Rasheed Syed , Zhang Shao-Lin , Geng Rong-Xia , Zhou Cheng-He
Published: May 2015

Synthesis of a series of azolylthioether quinolones as a new type of potential antimicrobial agents, and preliminary interactions with MRSA DNA indicated a possible interaction mechanism.
The effect of a hydrogen bond on the supramolecular self-aggregation mode and the extent of metal-free benzoxazole-substituted phthalocyanines
Authors: Bian Yinghui , Chen Jinshe , Xu Shaotang , Zhou Yulu , Zhu Lijun , Xiang Yuzhi , Xia Daohong
Published: May 2015

Two novel metal-free benzoxazole-substituted phthalocyanines were synthesized and characterized. Their self-aggregation behavior was comparatively studied.
Biological activity of natural sesquiterpenoids containing a gem-dimethylcyclopropane unit
Authors: Durán-Peña María Jesús , Botubol Ares José Manuel , Hanson James R. , Collado Isidro G. , Hernández-Galán Rosario
Published: May 2015

The biological activity of sesquiterpenes containing the gem-dimethylcyclopropane unit is described.
Ultra-durable rotary micromotors assembled from nanoentities by electric fields
Authors: Guo Jianhe , Kim Kwanoh , Lei Kin Wai , Fan D. L.
Published: May 2015

Ultra-durable rotary micromotors assembled from nanoentities that rotate 80 hours over 1.1 million cycles.
Discovery of novel Bcr-Abl inhibitors with diacylated piperazine as the flexible linker
Authors: Pan Xiaoyan , Dong Jinyun , Shi Yaling , Shao Ruili , Wei Fen , Wang Jinfeng , Zhang Jie
Published: May 2015

Forty-two compounds with flexible diacylated piperazine linkers were designed, synthesized and evaluated as novel Bcr-Abl inhibitors.
An update on new methods to synthesize cyclotetrapeptides
Authors: De Leon Rodriguez Luis M. , Weidkamp Andreas J. , Brimble Margaret A.
Published: May 2015

This review provides an account of the reported methods used for the synthesis of cyclotetrapeptides.
Amphiphilic glycosylated block copolypeptides as macromolecular surfactants in the emulsion polymerization of styrene
Authors: Jacobs Jaco , Gathergood Nicholas , Heuts Johan P. A. , Heise Andreas
Published: May 2015

Bio-inspired amphiphilic block copolymer surfactants fully derived from amino acids and sugars are synthesised. The materials are successfully employed in the synthesis of polystyrene latexes by emulsion polymerization.
Responsive single-chain polymer nanoparticles with host–guest features
Authors: Song Cunfeng , Li Longyu , Dai Lizong , Thayumanavan S.
Published: May 2015

We report a facile approach to form ultra-fine single-chain polymer nanoparticles (SCPNs)viadisulfide-based intrachain crosslinking of single polymer chains of a random copolymer poly(HEMA-co-PDSEMA).
Mucoadhesive gel containing immunotherapeutic nanoparticulate satranidazole for treatment of periodontitis: development and its clinical implications
Authors: Singh Yuvraj , Vuddanda Parameswara R. , Jain Achint , Parihar Sarita , Chaturvedi Thakur P. , Singh Sanjay
Published: May 2015

The aim of this study was to alleviate shortcomings in periodontal treatment by utilizing a mucoadhesive gel containing immunotherapeutic ganglioside coated polymeric nanoparticles (G-PNP) bearing satranidazole (SZ).
Catalytically engineered reduced graphene oxide/ZnO hybrid nanocomposites for the adsorption, photoactivity and selective oil pick-up from aqueous media
Authors: Babitha K. B. , Jani Matilda J. , Peer Mohamed A. , Ananthakumar S.
Published: May 2015

Microwave mediated in situ growth of nanocrystalline ZnO on rGO nanosheets is achieved using APTMS as the crosslinking agent. The deposition of hydrophobic ZnO/Si@rGO on a simple cotton textile results in the selective adsorption of oil from aqueous media.
Studying the corrosion inhibition of carbon steel in hydrochloric acid solution by 1-dodecyl-methyl-1H-benzo[d][1,2,3]triazole-1-ium bromide
Authors: Hegazy M. A. , Abd El Rehim S. S. , Badawi A. M. , Ahmed M. Y.
Published: May 2015

A novel cationic surfactant with good surface properties as a good inhibitor for carbon steel in HCl is shown, acting as a mixed-type inhibitor. Its adsorption obeys the Langmuir isotherm. By increasing the inhibitor concentration the inhibition efficiency increases.
Modulation of photovoltage in mesoscopic perovskite solar cell by controlled interfacial electron injection
Authors: Kang Hyun-Woo , Lee Jin-Wook , Son Dae-Yong , Park Nam-Gyu
Published: May 2015

The controlled electron injection by surface modification of mesoporous TiO2in the mesoscopic perovskite solar cell plays important role in determining open-circuit voltage and performance of perovskite solar cell.
Fabrication and characterization of a low power consumption ethanol gas sensor based on a suspended micro-hotplate
Authors: Li Meihua , Yan Weiping , Zhu Huichao , Guo Zhenya , Tang Zhenan
Published: May 2015

A low power consumption ethanol gas sensor based on a suspended micro-hotplate was fabricated using the droplet guiding deposition technique.
An electrochemical study based on thymine–Hg–thymine DNA base pair mediated charge transfer processes
Authors: Xu Ensheng , Lv Yanqin , Liu Jifeng , Gu Xiaohong , Zhang Shuqiu
Published: May 2015

The (TT)n might have more π-overlapping than the corresponding matched base pairs, and the intercalation of Hg(ii) into TT may further increase this overlapping, causing faster CT kinetics.
Enhanced ammonia sensing at room temperature with reduced graphene oxide/tin oxide hybrid films
Authors: Ghosh Ruma , Nayak Arpan Kumar , Santra Sumita , Pradhan Debabrata , Guha Prasanta Kumar
Published: May 2015

RGO–SnO2based highly selective and ultra-sensitive ammonia detectors at room temperature.
In vitro antimalarial activity and molecular modeling studies of novel artemisinin derivatives
Authors: Gaur Rashmi , Cheema Harveer Singh , Kumar Yogesh , Singh Suriya Pratap , Yadav Dharmendra K. , Darokar Mahendra Padurang , Khan Feroz , Bhakuni Rajendra Singh
Published: May 2015

Cerebral malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease caused by aPlasmodium falciparumparasite that infects a female anopheles mosquito which feeds on humans.
Unraveling the coptisine–ctDNA binding mechanism by multispectroscopic, electrochemical and molecular docking methods
Authors: Mi Ran , Bai Xiao-Ting , Tu Bao , Hu Yan-Jun
Published: May 2015

This study provides evidences of coptisine–DNA intercalation, which may help to develop new efficient, safe probes for the fluorometric detection of DNA instead of traditional toxic and carcinogenic probes.
Reinterpretation of students' ideas when reasoning about particle model illustrations
Authors: Langbeheim Elon
Published: May 2015

A response to “Using animations in identifying general chemistry students' misconceptions and evaluating their knowledge transfer relating to particle position in physical changes” by Smith and Villarreal (2015)