bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eccentricity and obliquity paced carbon cycling in the Early Triassic and implications for post-extinction ecosystem recovery
Authors: Fu Wanlu , Jiang Da-yong , Montañez Isabel P. , Meyers Stephen R. , Motani Ryosuke , Tintori Andrea
Published: June 2016

The timing of marine ecosystem recovery following the End Permian Mass Extinction (EPME) remains poorly constrained given the lack of radiometric ages. Here we develop a high-resolution carbonate carbon isotope (δ13Ccarb) record for 3.20 million years of the Olenekian in South China that defines the astronomical time-scale for the critical interval of major evolutionary and oceanic events in the Spathian. δ13Ccarb documents eccentricity modulation of carbon cycling through the period and a strong obliquity signal. A shift in phasing between short and long eccentricity modulation, and amplification of obliquity, is nearly coincident with a 2% decrease in seawater δ13CDIC, the last of a longer-term stepped decrease through the Spathian. The mid-Spathian shift in seawater δ13CDIC to typical thermocline values is interpreted to record a major oceanic reorganization with global climate amelioration. Coincidence of the phasing shift with the first occurrence of marine reptiles (248.81 Ma), suggests that their invasion into the sea and the onset of a complex ecosystem were facilitated by restoration of deep ocean ventilation linked mechanistically to a change in the response of the oceanic carbon reservoir to astronomical forcing. Together these records place the first constraints on the duration of the post-extinction recovery to 3.35 myr.
Overexpression of Arabidopsis NLP7 improves plant growth under both nitrogen-limiting and -sufficient conditions by enhancing nitrogen and carbon assimilation
Authors: Yu Lin-Hui , Wu Jie , Tang Hui , Yuan Yang , Wang Shi-Mei , Wang Yu-Ping , Zhu Qi-Sheng , Li Shi-Gui , Xiang Cheng-Bin
Published: June 2016

Nitrogen is essential for plant survival and growth. Excessive application of nitrogenous fertilizer has generated serious environment pollution and increased production cost in agriculture. To deal with this problem, tremendous efforts have been invested worldwide to increase the nitrogen use ability of crops. However, only limited success has been achieved to date. Here we report that NLP7 (NIN-LIKE PROTEIN 7) is a potential candidate to improve plant nitrogen use ability. When overexpressed in Arabidopsis, NLP7 increases plant biomass under both nitrogen-poor and -rich conditions with better-developed root system and reduced shoot/root ratio. NLP7–overexpressing plants show a significant increase in key nitrogen metabolites, nitrogen uptake, total nitrogen content, and expression levels of genes involved in nitrogen assimilation and signalling. More importantly, overexpression of NLP7 also enhances photosynthesis rate and carbon assimilation, whereas knockout of NLP7 impaired both nitrogen and carbon assimilation. In addition, NLP7 improves plant growth and nitrogen use in transgenic tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum). Our results demonstrate that NLP7 significantly improves plant growth under both nitrogen-poor and -rich conditions by coordinately enhancing nitrogen and carbon assimilation and sheds light on crop improvement.
Context sensitivity in the detection of changes in facial emotion
Authors: Yamashita Yuichi , Fujimura Tomomi , Katahira Kentaro , Honda Manabu , Okada Masato , Okanoya Kazuo
Published: June 2016

In social contexts, reading subtle changes in others’ facial expressions is a crucial communication skill. To measure this ability, we developed an expression-change detection task, wherein a series of pictures of changes in an individual’s facial expressions within contextual scenes were presented. The results demonstrated that the detection of subtle changes was highly sensitive to contextual stimuli. That is, participants identified the direction of facial-expression changes more accurately and more quickly when they were ‘appropriate’—consistent with the valence of the contextual stimulus change—than when they were ‘inappropriate’. Moreover, individual differences in sensitivity to contextual stimuli were correlated with scores on the Toronto Alexithymia Scale, a commonly used measure of alexithymia tendencies. These results suggest that the current behavioural task might facilitate investigations of the role of context in human social cognition.
DOCK2 confers immunity and intestinal colonization resistance to Citrobacter rodentium infection
Authors: Liu Zhiping , Man Si Ming , Zhu Qifan , Vogel Peter , Frase Sharon , Fukui Yoshinori , Kanneganti Thirumala-Devi
Published: June 2016

Food poisoning is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the world. Citrobacter rodentium is an enteric pathogen which attaches itself to enterocytes and induces attachment and effacing (A/E) lesions. The ability of the bacterium to cause infection requires subversion of the host actin cytoskeleton. Rac-dependent actin polymerization is activated by a guanine nucleotide exchange factor known as Dedicator of cytokinesis 2 (DOCK2). However, the role of DOCK2 in infectious disease is largely unexplored. Here, we found that mice lacking DOCK2 were susceptible to C. rodentium infection. These mice harbored increased levels of C. rodentium bacteria, showed more pronounced weight loss and inflammation-associated pathology, and were prone to bacterial dissemination to the systemic organs compared with wild-type mice. We found that mice lacking DOCK2 were more susceptible to C. rodentium attachment to intestinal epithelial cells. Therefore, our results underscored an important role of DOCK2 for gastrointestinal immunity to C. rodentium infection.
Catalytic Decarboxylation of Fatty Acids to Aviation Fuels over Nickel Supported on Activated Carbon
Authors: Wu Jianghua , Shi Juanjuan , Fu Jie , Leidl Jamie A. , Hou Zhaoyin , Lu Xiuyang
Published: June 2016

Decarboxylation of fatty acids over non-noble metal catalysts without added hydrogen was studied. Ni/C catalysts were prepared and exhibited excellent activity and maintenance for decarboxylation. Thereafter, the effects of nickel loading, catalyst loading, temperature and carbon number on the decarboxylation of fatty acids were investigated. The results indicate that the products of cracking increased with high nickel loading or catalyst loading. Temperature significantly impacted the conversion of stearic acid but did not influence the selectivity. The fatty acids with large carbon numbers tend to be cracked in this reaction system. Stearic acid can be completely converted at 370 °C for 5 h and the selectivity to heptadecane was around 80%.
Mechanistic insights of O-GlcNAcylation that promote progression of cholangiocarcinoma cells via nuclear translocation of NF-κB
Authors: Phoomak Chatchai , Vaeteewoottacharn Kulthida , Sawanyawisuth Kanlayanee , Seubwai Wunchana , Wongkham Chaisiri , Silsirivanit Atit , Wongkham Sopit
Published: June 2016

O-GlcNAcylation, an O-linked protein glycosylation with a single molecule of N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc), is reversibly controlled by O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT) and N-acetyl D-glucosaminidase (OGA). Aberrant O-GlcNAcylation contributes an important role in initiation and progression of many human cancers. Elevation of O-GlcNAcylation in tumor tissues and poor prognosis of cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) patients have been reported. In this study, the role of O-GlcNAcylation in promoting tumor progression was further investigated in CCA cell lines. Suppression of O-GlcNAcylation using small interfering RNAs of OGT (siOGT) significantly reduced cell migration and invasion of CCA cells whereas siOGA treated cells exhibited opposite effects. Manipulating levels of O-GlcNAcylation did affect the nuclear translocation of NF-κB and Akt-phosphorylation together with expression of matrix-metalloproteinases (MMPs). O-GlcNAcylation and nuclear translocation of NF-κB, the upstream signaling cascade of MMP activation were shown to be important for MMP activation. Immunoprecipitation revealed the elevation of O-GlcNAc-modified NF-κB with increased cellular O-GlcNAcylation. Involvement of O-GlcNAcylation in MMP-mediated migration and invasion of CCA cells was shown to be via O-GlcNAcylation and nuclear translocation of NF-κB. This information indicates the significance of O-GlcNAcylation in controlling the metastatic ability of CCA cells, hence, O-GlcNAcylation and its products may be new targets for treatment of metastatic CCA.
Environmental exposure to BDE47 is associated with increased diabetes prevalence: Evidence from community-based case-control studies and an animal experiment
Authors: Zhang Zhan , Li Shushu , Liu Lu , Wang Li , Xiao Xue , Sun Zhenzhen , Wang Xichen , Wang Chao , Wang Meilin , Li Lei , Xu Qiujin , Gao Weimin , Wang Shou-Lin
Published: June 2016

Brominated flame retardants exposure has been associated with increasing trends of diabetes and metabolic disease. Thus, the purpose of this study was to provide evidence of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) exposure in relation to diabetes prevalence and to reveal the potential underlying mechanism in epidemiological and animal studies. All the participants received a questionnaire, health examination, and the detection of 7 PBDE congeners in serum in two independent community-based studies from 2011 to 2012 in China. Male rats were exposed to 2,2’4,4’-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE47) for 8 weeks to explore its effects on glucose homeostasis and potential mechanisms using high-throughput genomic analysis. Among the 7 congeners, BDE47 showed significant high detection rate and concentration in cases in Study I and Study II. Every tertile of BDE47 exposure significantly increased the risk of diabetes prevalence in Study I (Ptrend = 0.001) and Study II (Ptrend < 0.001). Additionally, BDE47 treatments induced hyperglycemia in rats. Furthermore, gene microarray analysis showed that diabetes pathway and three gene ontology terms involved in glucose transport were enriched. The results indicated that environmental exposure to BDE47 was associated with increased diabetes prevalence. However, further prospective and mechanistic studies are needed to the causation of diabetes in relation to BDE47.
Origin of Symmetric Dimer Images of Si(001) Observed by Low-Temperature Scanning Tunneling Microscopy
Authors: Ren Xiao-Yan , Kim Hyun-Jung , Niu Chun-Yao , Jia Yu , Cho Jun-Hyung
Published: June 2016

It has been a long-standing puzzle why buckled dimers of the Si(001) surface appeared symmetric below ~20 K in scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) experiments. Although such symmetric dimer images were concluded to be due to an artifact induced by STM measurements, its underlying mechanism is still veiled. Here, we demonstrate, based on a first-principles density-functional theory calculation, that the symmetric dimer images are originated from the flip-flop motion of buckled dimers, driven by quantum tunneling (QT). It is revealed that at low temperature the tunneling-induced surface charging with holes reduces the energy barrier for the flipping of buckled dimers, thereby giving rise to a sizable QT-driven frequency of the flip-flop motion. However, such a QT phenomenon becomes marginal in the tunneling-induced surface charging with electrons. Our findings provide an explanation for low-temperature STM data that exhibits apparent symmetric (buckled) dimer structure in the filled-state (empty-state) images.
Position- and quantity-dependent responses in zebrafish turning behavior
Authors: Umeda Keiko , Ishizuka Toru , Yawo Hiromu , Shoji Wataru
Published: June 2016

Neural reflexes are stereotypical automatic responses often modulated by both intrinsic and environmental factors. We report herein that zebrafish larval C-shaped turning is modulated by the stimulated position of Rohon-Beard (RB) neurons. Targeted stimulation of more anterior RB neurons produces larger trunk flexion, which anticipates adult escape behavior by coordinated turning toward the appropriate direction. We also demonstrated that turning laterality varies with the numbers of stimulated neurons. Multi-cell stimulation of RB neurons elicits contralateral turning, as seen in the touch response to physical contact, while minimum input from single-cell stimulation induces ipsilateral turning, a phenomenon not previously reported. This ipsilateral response, but not the contralateral one, is impaired by transecting the ascending neural tract known as the dorsolateral fascicule (DLF), indicating that two, distinct neural circuits trigger these two responses. Our results suggest that RB neurons transmit the position and quantity of sensory information, which are then processed separately to modulate behavioral strength and to select turning laterality.
TRPV4 Regulates Breast Cancer Cell Extravasation, Stiffness and Actin Cortex
Authors: Lee Wen Hsin , Choong Lee Yee , Mon Naing Naing , Lu SsuYi , Lin Qingsong , Pang Brendan , Yan Benedict , Krishna Vedula Sri Ram , Singh Himanshu , Tan Tuan Zea , Thiery Jean Paul , Lim Chwee Teck , Tan Patrick Boon Ooi , Johansson Martin , Harteneck Christian , Lim Yoon Pin
Published: June 2016

Metastasis is a significant health issue. The standard mode of care is combination of chemotherapy and targeted therapeutics but the 5-year survival rate remains low. New/better drug targets that can improve outcomes of patients with metastatic disease are needed. Metastasis is a complex process, with each step conferred by a set of genetic aberrations. Mapping the molecular changes associated with metastasis improves our understanding of the etiology of this disease and contributes to the pipeline of targeted therapeutics. Here, phosphoproteomics of a xenograft-derived in vitro model comprising 4 isogenic cell lines with increasing metastatic potential implicated Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid subtype 4 in breast cancer metastasis. TRPV4 mRNA levels in breast, gastric and ovarian cancers correlated with poor clinical outcomes, suggesting a wide role of TRPV4 in human epithelial cancers. TRPV4 was shown to be required for breast cancer cell invasion and transendothelial migration but not growth/proliferation. Knockdown of Trpv4 significantly reduced the number of metastatic nodules in mouse xenografts leaving the size unaffected. Overexpression of TRPV4 promoted breast cancer cell softness, blebbing, and actin reorganization. The findings provide new insights into the role of TRPV4 in cancer extravasation putatively by reducing cell rigidity through controlling the cytoskeleton at the cell cortex.
A general method for parameter estimation in light-response models
Authors: Chen Lei , Li Zhong-Bin , Hui Cang , Cheng Xiaofei , Li Bai-Lian , Shi Pei-Jian
Published: June 2016

Selecting appropriate initial values is critical for parameter estimation in nonlinear photosynthetic light response models. Failed convergence often occurs due to wrongly selected initial values when using currently available methods, especially the kind of local optimization. There are no reliable methods that can resolve the conundrum of selecting appropriate initial values. After comparing the performance of the Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm and other three algorithms for global optimization, we develop a general method for parameter estimation in four photosynthetic light response models, based on the use of Differential Evolution (DE). The new method was shown to successfully provide good fits (R2 > 0.98) and robust parameter estimates for 42 datasets collected for 21 plant species under the same initial values. It suggests that the DE algorithm can efficiently resolve the issue of hyper initial-value sensitivity when using local optimization methods. Therefore, the DE method can be applied to fit the light-response curves of various species without considering the initial values.
Calcineurin inhibitors cyclosporine A and tacrolimus induce vascular inflammation and endothelial activation through TLR4 signaling
Authors: Rodrigues-Diez Raquel , González-Guerrero Cristian , Ocaña-Salceda Carlos , Rodrigues-Diez Raúl R. , Egido Jesús , Ortiz Alberto , Ruiz-Ortega Marta , Ramos Adrián M.
Published: June 2016

The introduction of the calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) cyclosporine and tacrolimus greatly reduced the rate of allograft rejection, although their chronic use is marred by a range of side effects, among them vascular toxicity. In transplant patients, it is proved that innate immunity promotes vascular injury triggered by ischemia-reperfusion damage, atherosclerosis and hypertension. We hypothesized that activation of the innate immunity and inflammation may contribute to CNI toxicity, therefore we investigated whether TLR4 mediates toxic responses of CNIs in the vasculature. Cyclosporine and tacrolimus increased the production of proinflammatory cytokines and endothelial activation markers in cultured murine endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells as well as in ex vivo cultures of murine aortas. CNI-induced proinflammatory events were prevented by pharmacological inhibition of TLR4. Moreover, CNIs were unable to induce inflammation and endothelial activation in aortas from TLR4−/− mice. CNI-induced cytokine and adhesion molecules synthesis in endothelial cells occurred even in the absence of calcineurin, although its expression was required for maximal effect through upregulation of TLR4 signaling. CNI-induced TLR4 activity increased O2−/ROS production and NF-κB-regulated synthesis of proinflammatory factors in cultured as well as aortic endothelial and VSMCs. These data provide new insight into the mechanisms associated with CNI vascular inflammation.
Insomnia, Health-Related Quality of Life and Health Outcomes in Children: A Seven Year Longitudinal Cohort
Authors: Combs Daniel , Goodwin James L. , Quan Stuart F. , Morgan Wayne J. , Shetty Safal , Parthasarathy Sairam
Published: June 2016

Insomnia is common in children and is associated with decreased school performance and increased psychopathology. Although adult insomnia is linked to worsened health-related quality of life (HRQOL), there is insufficient data evaluating insomnia and HRQOL in children. We examined the HRQOL and health associations of insomnia in a longitudinal cohort of 194 children (96 girls, age at study start 8.7 ± 1.6 years, age at data analysis 15.0 ± 1.8 years) over 7 years. International Classification of Sleep Disorders, second edition (ICSD2) derived insomnia was seen intermittently in 27% of children and was persistent in 4%. Children reporting ICSD2-derived insomnia had lower HRQOL. Additionally, the presence of insomnia was associated with an increased risk of reporting a new medical condition (intermittent insomnia odds ratio 5.9 [95% CI 1.3–26.7, p = 0.04], persistent insomnia odds ratio 8 [95% CI 2.3–27.7, p = 0.001]). Persistent ICSD2-derived insomnia was associated with an increased risk of reporting a new medication (odds ratio 4.9 (95% CI 1.0–23.6), p = 0.049) and reporting a new psychiatric medication (odds ratio 13.7, 95% CI: 2.6–73.5, p = 0.002). These associations were present even after adjusting for socioeconomic factors and the presence of obstructive sleep apnea. Insomnia in children is associated with worsened HRQOL and health outcomes.
Ecophysiological consequences of alcoholism on human gut microbiota: implications for ethanol-related pathogenesis of colon cancer
Authors: Tsuruya Atsuki , Kuwahara Akika , Saito Yuta , Yamaguchi Haruhiko , Tsubo Takahisa , Suga Shogo , Inai Makoto , Aoki Yuichi , Takahashi Seiji , Tsutsumi Eri , Suwa Yoshihide , Morita Hidetoshi , Kinoshita Kenji , Totsuka Yukari , Suda Wataru , Oshima Kenshiro , Hattori Masahira , Mizukami Takeshi , Yokoyama Akira , Shimoyama Takefumi , Nakayama Toru
Published: June 2016

Chronic consumption of excess ethanol increases the risk of colorectal cancer. The pathogenesis of ethanol-related colorectal cancer (ER-CRC) is thought to be partly mediated by gut microbes. Specifically, bacteria in the colon and rectum convert ethanol to acetaldehyde (AcH), which is carcinogenic. However, the effects of chronic ethanol consumption on the human gut microbiome are poorly understood and the role of gut microbes in the proposed AcH-mediated pathogenesis of ER-CRC remains to be elaborated. Here we analyse and compare the gut microbiota structures of non-alcoholics and alcoholics. The gut microbiotas of alcoholics were diminished in dominant obligate anaerobes (e.g., Bacteroides and Ruminococcus) and enriched in Streptococcus and other minor species. This alteration might be exacerbated by habitual smoking. These observations could at least partly be explained by the susceptibility of obligate anaerobes to reactive oxygen species, which are increased by chronic exposure of the gut mucosa to ethanol. The AcH productivity from ethanol was much lower in the faeces of alcoholic patients than in faeces of non-alcoholic subjects. The faecal phenotype of the alcoholics could be rationalised based on their gut microbiota structures and the ability of gut bacteria to accumulate AcH from ethanol.
Molecular characterization and expression profile of the estrogen receptor α gene during different reproductive phases in Monopterus albus
Authors: Ding Weidong , Cao Liping , Cao Zheming , Bing Xuwen , Zhao Fazhen
Published: June 2016

To understand the molecular mechanism of estrogen and to evaluate the role of the estrogen receptor in mediating estrogen action, the full-length cDNA of estrogen receptor α (ERα) was cloned from Monopterus albus and its expression pattern and distribution were investigated. The ERα cDNA of M. albus includes an open reading frame of 1863 bp, a 140-bp 5’-untranslated region and a 797-bp 3’-untranslated region. Amino acid sequence homology analysis showed that the Monopterus albus ERα has a moderate degree of similarity with Sebastes schlegelii, Zoarces viviparus and Haplochromis burtoni (81.1%, 80.7% and 80.4%, respectively). Quantitative PCR results showed that the highest level of ERα expression was in the liver; the next highest level of expression was observed in the gonads, where it was expressed at high levels particularly in the ovary in developmental stages IV and V and in the testis in developmental stage II/III. Immunohistochemistry analysis showed that ERα was present as slender particles distributed mainly in the membranes of spermatocytes and oocytes in the testis and ovary, whereas no positive signal was observed in the cytoplasm of sperm cells. This report describes the first molecular characterization of full-length ERα and its tissue-specific distribution in M. albus.
Proteomic analysis of egg white heparin-binding proteins: towards the identification of natural antibacterial molecules
Authors: Guyot Nicolas , Labas Valérie , Harichaux Grégoire , Chessé Magali , Poirier Jean-Claude , Nys Yves , Réhault-Godbert Sophie
Published: June 2016

The chicken egg resists most environmental microbes suggesting that it potentially contains efficient antimicrobial molecules. Considering that some heparin-binding proteins in mammals are antibacterial, we investigated the presence and the antimicrobial activity of heparin-binding proteins from chicken egg white. Mass spectrometry analysis of the proteins recovered after heparin-affinity chromatography, revealed 20 proteins, including known antimicrobial proteins (avidin, lysozyme, TENP, ovalbumin-related protein X and avian bêta-defensin 11). The antibacterial activity of three new egg candidates (vitelline membrane outer layer protein 1, beta-microseminoprotein-like (LOC101750704) and pleiotrophin) was demonstrated against Listeria monocytogenes and/or Salmonella enterica Enteritidis. We showed that all these molecules share the property to inhibit bacterial growth through their heparin-binding domains. However, vitelline membrane outer layer 1 has additional specific structural features that can contribute to its antimicrobial potential. Moreover, we identified potential supplementary effectors of innate immunity including mucin 5B, E-selectin ligand 1, whey acidic protein 3, peptidyl prolyl isomerase B and retinoic acid receptor responder protein 2. These data support the concept of using heparin affinity combined to mass spectrometry to obtain an overview of the various effectors of innate immunity composing biological milieus and to identify novel antimicrobial candidates of interest in the race for alternatives to antibiotics.
Observation of Lévy distribution and replica symmetry breaking in random lasers from a single set of measurements
Authors: Gomes Anderson S. L. , Raposo Ernesto P. , Moura André L. , Fewo Serge I. , Pincheira Pablo I. R. , Jerez Vladimir , Maia Lauro J. Q. , de Araújo Cid B.
Published: June 2016

Random lasers have been recently exploited as a photonic platform for studies of complex systems. This cross-disciplinary approach opened up new important avenues for the understanding of random-laser behavior, including Lévy-type distributions of strong intensity fluctuations and phase transitions to a photonic spin-glass phase. In this work, we employ the Nd:YBO random laser system to unveil, from a single set of measurements, the physical origin of the complex correspondence between the Lévy fluctuation regime and the replica-symmetry-breaking transition to the spin-glass phase. A novel unexpected finding is also reported: the trend to suppress the spin-glass behavior for high excitation pulse energies. The present description from first principles of this correspondence unfolds new possibilities to characterize other random lasers, such as random fiber lasers, nanolasers and small lasers, which include plasmonic-based, photonic-crystal and bio-derived nanodevices. The statistical nature of the emission provided by random lasers can also impact on their prominent use as sources for speckle-free laser imaging, which nowadays represents one of the most promising applications of random lasers, with expected progress even in cancer research.
Investigation of the cellular reprogramming phenomenon referred to as stimulus-triggered acquisition of pluripotency (STAP)
Authors: Niwa Hitoshi
Published: June 2016

In January 2014, it was reported that strong external stimuli, such as a transient low-pH stressor, was capable of inducing the reprogramming of mammalian somatic cells, resulting in the generation of pluripotent cells. This cellular reprograming event was designated ‘stimulus-triggered acquisition of pluripotency’ (STAP) by the authors of these reports. However, after multiple instances of scientific misconduct in the handling and presentation of the data were brought to light, both reports were retracted. To investigate the actual scientific significance of the purported STAP phenomenon, we sought to repeat the original experiments based on the methods presented in the retracted manuscripts and other relevant information. As a result, we have concluded that the STAP phenomenon as described in the original studies is not reproducible.
Synergistic effects of combined treatment with histone deacetylase inhibitor suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid and TRAIL on human breast cancer cells
Authors: Zhou Weiqiang , Feng Xiuyan , Han Han  , Guo Shanchun , Wang Guangdi
Published: June 2016

Previous studies showed that either histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors or tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) can induce apoptosis in tumor cells including breast cancer. However, the underling mechanisms of combining HDAC inhibitors with TRAIL in the treatment of breast cancer are poorly understood. In this study, we determined the ability of SAHA and TRAIL as single agents or in combination to inhibit the growth and survival of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Our results demonstrate that the distinct effects of SAHA or TRAIL individually and in combination on the proliferation, cell viability, apoptosis, cell cycle distribution, and morphological changes of MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells. We further determined the different effects of SAHA or TRAIL alone and combining SAHA with TRAIL on the expression of a number of apoptosis-related molecules, cell cycle, growth factors and their receptors in cancer cells. Our results demonstrated that the combinatorial treatment of SAHA and TRAIL may target multiple pathways and serve as an effective therapeutic strategy against breast cancer. An improved understanding of the molecular mechanisms may facilitate either SAHA or TRAIL targeted use and the selection of suitable combinations.
Robust electric-field tunable opto-electrical behavior in Pt-NiO-Pt planar structures
Authors: Rebello A. , Adeyeye A. O.
Published: June 2016

Capacitor-like metal-NiO-metal structures have attracted large interest in non-volatile memory applications based on electric field control of resistance, known as resistive switching (RS). Formation of conducting nanofilaments by the application of an electric field (electroformation) is considered an important pre-requisite for RS. Besides RS, due to the wide band gap and p-type semiconducting nature, NiO has been used to fabricate heterojunctions for photodetector applications. However, very little is known about the electrical and opto-electrical properties of NiO films in planar structure. Here, we demonstrate intriguing photoresponse and electrical behavior in electroformed Pt-NiO-Pt planar structures. While the pristine devices show ohmic electrical behavior and negligible photoresponse, the electroformed devices exhibit a nonlinear rectification behavior and a remarkable photoresponse at low voltage biases. More interestingly, the devices show a dramatic change of sign of rectification under light illumination at higher voltage biases. A polarity dependent and robust gain phenomenon is demonstrated in these devices. The large sensitivity, fast response, simple design and ease of preparation of these planar structures make them attractive for integration with current circuit technologies and various novel opto-electrical applications.
Metabolic alterations in children with environmental enteric dysfunction
Authors: Semba Richard D. , Shardell Michelle , Trehan Indi , Moaddel Ruin , Maleta Kenneth M. , Ordiz M. Isabel , Kraemer Klaus , Khadeer Mohammed , Ferrucci Luigi , Manary Mark J.
Published: June 2016

Environmental enteric dysfunction, an asymptomatic condition characterized by inflammation of the small bowel mucosa, villous atrophy, malabsorption, and increased intestinal permeability, is a major contributor to childhood stunting in low-income countries. Here we report the relationship of increased intestinal permeability with serum metabolites in 315 children without acute malnutrition, aged 12–59 months, in rural Malawi. Increased gut permeability was associated with significant differences in circulating metabolites that included lower serum phosphatidylcholines, sphingomyelins, tryptophan, ornithine, and citrulline, and elevated serum glutamate, taurine, and serotonin. Our findings suggest that environmental enteric dysfunction is characterized by alterations in important metabolites involved in growth and differentiation and gut function and integrity.
Integration of inherent and induced chirality into subphthalocyanine analogue
Authors: Zhao Luyang , Qi Dongdong , Wang Kang , Wang Tianyu , Han Bing , Tang Zhiyong , Jiang Jianzhuang
Published: June 2016

Conventional conjugated systems are characteristic of only either inherent or induced chirality because of synthetic challenge in combination of chiral segment into the main chromophore. In this work, chiral binaphthyl segment is directly fused into the central chromophore of a subphthalocyanine skeleton, resulting in a novel type of chiral subphthalocyanine analogue (R/S)-1of integrated inherent and induced chirality. Impressively, an obviously enhanced optical activity is discerned for (R/S)-1molecules, and corresponding enhancement mechanism is elucidated in detail. The synthesis strategy based on rational molecular design will open the door towards fabrication of chiral materials with giant optical activity, which will have great potential in chiroptical devices.
Silver nanostructures synthesis via optically induced electrochemical deposition
Authors: Li Pan , Liu Na , Yu Haibo , Wang Feifei , Liu Lianqing , Lee Gwo-Bin , Wang Yuechao , Li Wen Jung
Published: June 2016

We present a new digitally controlled, optically induced electrochemical deposition (OED) method for fabricating silver nanostructures. Projected light patterns were used to induce an electrochemical reaction in a specialized sandwich-like microfluidic device composed of one indium tin oxide (ITO) glass electrode and an optically sensitive-layer-covered ITO electrode. Silver polyhedral nanoparticles, triangular and hexagonal nanoplates and nanobelts were controllably synthesized in specific positions at which projected light was illuminated. The silver nanobelts had rectangular cross-sections with an average width of 300 nm and an average thickness of 100 nm. By controlling the applied voltage, frequency and time, different silver nanostructure morphologies were obtained. Based on the classic electric double-layer theory, a dynamic process of reduction and crystallization can be described in terms of three phases. Because it is template- and surfactant-free, the digitally controlled OED method facilitates the easy, low cost, efficient and flexible synthesis of functional silver nanostructures, especially quasi-one-dimensional nanobelts.
Tumour endothelial cells in high metastatic tumours promote metastasis via epigenetic dysregulation of biglycan
Authors: Maishi Nako , Ohba Yusuke , Akiyama Kosuke , Ohga Noritaka , Hamada Jun-ichi , Nagao-Kitamoto Hiroko , Alam Mohammad Towfik , Yamamoto Kazuyuki , Kawamoto Taisuke , Inoue Nobuo , Taketomi Akinobu , Shindoh Masanobu , Hida Yasuhiro , Hida Kyoko
Published: June 2016

Tumour blood vessels are gateways for distant metastasis. Recent studies have revealed that tumour endothelial cells (TECs) demonstrate distinct phenotypes from their normal counterparts. We have demonstrated that features of TECs are different depending on tumour malignancy, suggesting that TECs communicate with surrounding tumour cells. However, the contribution of TECs to metastasis has not been elucidated. Here, we show that TECs actively promote tumour metastasis through a bidirectional interaction between tumour cells and TECs. Co-implantation of TECs isolated from highly metastatic tumours accelerated lung metastases of low metastatic tumours. Biglycan, a small leucine-rich repeat proteoglycan secreted from TECs, activated tumour cell migration via nuclear factor-κB and extracellular signal–regulated kinase 1/2. Biglycan expression was upregulated by DNA demethylation in TECs. Collectively, our results demonstrate that TECs are altered in their microenvironment and, in turn, instigate tumour cells to metastasize, which is a novel mechanism for tumour metastasis.
Nanoscale silicon surface-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry: environment stability and activation by simple vacuum oven desiccation
Authors: Tsao Chia-Wen , Lin Yuan-Jing , Chen Pi-Yu , Yang Yu-Liang , Tan Say Hwa
Published: June 2016

Environmental (air, inert gas, vacuum) stability and vacuum oven desiccation for high sensitivity nanoscale silicon SALDI-MS is investigated.
Biomolecular environment, quantification, and intracellular interaction of multifunctional magnetic SERS nanoprobes
Authors: Büchner Tina , Drescher Daniela , Merk Virginia , Traub Heike , Guttmann Peter , Werner Stephan , Jakubowski Norbert , Schneider Gerd , Kneipp Janina
Published: June 2016

Multifunctional composite nanoprobes, Ag–Magnetite and Au–Magnetite, were manipulated in fibroblast cells and characterized using SERS, LA-ICP-MS, and nanotomography.
Expanding neurochemical investigations with multi-modal recording: simultaneous fast-scan cyclic voltammetry, iontophoresis, and patch clamp measurements
Authors: Kirkpatrick D. C. , McKinney C. J. , Manis P. B. , Wightman R. M.
Published: June 2016

Simultaneous patch clamp and fast-scan cyclic voltammetry measurements were performed to monitor cell behavior during iontophoretic drug delivery.
Ullmann coupling reaction of aryl chlorides on Au(111) using dosed Cu as a catalyst and the programmed growth of 2D covalent organic frameworks
Authors: Shi Ke Ji , Zhang Xin , Shu Chen Hui , Li Deng Yuan , Wu Xin Yan , Liu Pei Nian
Published: June 2016

The efficiency of Ullmann reaction of aryl chlorides on an Au(111) surface has been substantially increased by using dosed Cu as a catalyst.
A srikaya-like light-harvesting antenna based on graphene quantum dots and porphyrin unimolecular micelles
Authors: Liu Yannan , Li Shanlong , Li Ke , Zheng Yongli , Zhang Meng , Cai Caiyun , Yu Chunyang , Zhou Yongfeng , Yan Deyue
Published: June 2016

A novel hybrid light-harvesting antenna with a srikaya-like structure of multi-graphene quantum dots (GQDs) as donors and one porphyrin unimolecular micelle as the acceptor was constructed through electrostatic self-assembly.
Nanofiltration membranes with narrowed pore size distribution via pore wall modification
Authors: Du Yong , Lv Yan , Qiu Wen-Ze , Wu Jian , Xu Zhi-Kang
Published: June 2016

A novel method has been proposed to modify the pore wall of nanofiltration membranes (NFMs) by filtrating molecules that are reactive to the NFMs, leading to narrowed pore size distribution.
Determining carbon–carbon connectivities in natural abundance organic powders using dipolar couplings
Authors: Dekhil Myriam , Mollica Giulia , Bonniot Tristan Texier , Ziarelli Fabio , Thureau Pierre , Viel Stéphane
Published: June 2016

A solid-state NMR method to establish carbon–carbon connectivities in natural abundance powders.
Iridium-catalysed dehydrocoupling of aryl phosphine–borane adducts: synthesis and characterisation of high molecular weight poly(phosphinoboranes)
Authors: Paul Ursula S. D. , Braunschweig Holger , Radius Udo
Published: June 2016

The thermal dehydrogenative coupling of aryl phosphine–borane adducts with (POCOP) iridium complexes leads to high molecular weight poly(phosphinoboranes) [ArPH–BH2]n (Ar = Ph, pTol, Mes). Preliminary studies indicate a two-stage mechanism of this reaction.
Control of the photochromic behavior of cobaloxime complexes with salicylidene-3-aminopyridine and 2-cyanoethyl groups by dual photoisomerization
Authors: Sekine Akiko , Ina Sayaka , Johmoto Kohei , Uekusa Hidehiro
Published: June 2016

The lifetime of colored species of photochromic derivatives significantly changed after the photoisomerization of the 2-cyanoethyl group.
When a nanoparticle meets a superhalogen: a case study with C60 fullerene
Authors: Sikorska Celina
Published: June 2016

The ability of a selected nanoparticle to form stable systems with superhalogens (i.e. AlF4, AlCl4, MgF3, MgCl3, LiF2, LiCl2, and LiI2) is examined on the basis of theoretical considerations supported by ab initio calculations.
How molecular is the chemisorptive bond?
Authors: van Santen R. A. , Tranca I.
Published: June 2016

Scaling rules differ for early and late transition metals. Their electronic structure and topological bond analysis are shown.
Enhanced CO gas sensing properties of Cu doped SnO2 nanostructures prepared by a facile wet chemical method
Authors: Bhardwaj Neha , Pandey Akhilesh , Satpati Biswarup , Tomar Monika , Gupta Vinay , Mohapatra Satyabrata
Published: June 2016

Cu doped SnO2 nanosheets and nanodiscs exhibit highly enhanced CO gas sensing properties and excellent selectivity for CO gas.
Enhanced photocatalytic activity of a self-stabilized synthetic flavin anchored on a TiO2 surface
Authors: Pandiri Manjula , Hossain Mohammad S. , Foss Frank W. , Rajeshwar Krishnan , Paz Yaron
Published: June 2016

Synthetic flavin molecules were anchored on titanium dioxide and their effect on the photocatalytic activity of TiO2 was studied.
Effect of urchin-like gold nanoparticles in organic thin-film solar cells
Authors: Pangdam Apichat , Nootchanat Supeera , Ishikawa Ryousuke , Shinbo Kazunari , Kato Keizo , Kaneko Futao , Thammacharoen Chuchaat , Ekgasit Sanong , Baba Akira
Published: June 2016

A schematic of the fabricated UL-AuNP-enhanced OSCs.
Two-photon-absorption DNA sensitization via solvated electron production: unraveling photochemical pathways by molecular modeling and simulation
Authors: Gattuso Hugo , Dumont Elise , Marazzi Marco , Monari Antonio
Published: June 2016

Infrared optical properties and photochemistry of a potential therapeutic dye interacting with DNA: a multiscale computational approach.
Modulating carrier dynamics through perovskite film engineering
Authors: Lim Swee Sien , Chong Wee Kiang , Solanki Ankur , Dewi Herlina Arianita , Mhaisalkar Subodh , Mathews Nripan , Sum Tze Chien
Published: June 2016

The one-sentence summary that highlights the novelty of our work is, “morphology-kinetics studies on substrate/film-treated perovskite samples reveal that the highly effective toluene-wash processes surprisingly increase trap density in CH3NH3PbI3 films”.
Design and synthesis of hollow NiCo2O4 nanoboxes as anodes for lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Chen Junfen , Ru Qiang , Mo Yudi , Hu Shejun , Hou Xianhua
Published: June 2016

This work is about the synthesis of hollow NiCo2O4 nanoboxes and their electrochemical performance for LIBs and SIBs.
Secondary brown carbon formation via the dicarbonyl imine pathway: nitrogen heterocycle formation and synergistic effects
Authors: Kampf C. J. , Filippi A. , Zuth C. , Hoffmann T. , Opatz T.
Published: June 2016

We observe nitrogen heterocycles to be common secondary brown carbon chromophores formed by dicarbonylsviathe imine pathway, and synergistic effects in mixed dicarbonyl reaction systems.
Structural phase transition in perovskite metal–formate frameworks: a Potts-type model with dipolar interactions
Authors: Šimėnas Mantas , Balčiūnas Sergejus , Maçzka Mirosław , Banys Jūras , Tornau Evaldas E.
Published: June 2016

A Monte Carlo study of a statistical model describing the order–disorder phase transition in perovskite-based [(CH3)2NH2][M(HCOO)3] dense metal–organic frameworks.
Towards more accurate prediction of activation energies for polyalcohol dehydrogenation on transition metal catalysts in water
Authors: Zaffran Jérémie , Michel Carine , Delbecq Françoise , Sautet Philippe
Published: June 2016

Polyols may be associated to a large catalytic reaction network. Brønsted–Evans–Polanyi (B.E.P.) relationships aim to easily predict activation barriers from reaction energies. Acting as a filter, such methods enable to quickly screen all the potential reaction intermediates and products.
The role of adsorbed oxygen in formic acid oxidation by Pt/TiO2 facilitated by light pre-treatment
Authors: Saputera Wibawa H. , Scott Jason , Ganda Nathania , Low Gary K.-C. , Amal Rose
Published: June 2016

The formic acid oxidation rate by Pt/TiO2 under the ambient condition strongly depends on the presence of surface active oxygen species (PtOads and O−ads).
‘Click’ generated 1,2,3-triazole based organosulfur/selenium ligands and their Pd(ii) and Ru(ii) complexes: their synthesis, structure and catalytic applications
Authors: Kumar Satyendra , Saleem Fariha , Singh Ajai K.
Published: June 2016

Sonogashira and Suzuki–Miyaura coupling were catalyzed with Pd(ii) complexes (0.001–2 mol%), and transfer hydrogenation (in water–glycerol) was catalyzed with Ru(ii) complexes (≤0.4 mol%).
Platinum(iv) N-heterocyclic carbene complexes: their synthesis, characterisation and cytotoxic activity
Authors: Bouché M. , Dahm G. , Wantz M. , Fournel S. , Achard T. , Bellemin-Laponnaz S.
Published: June 2016

We report the synthesis and cytotoxic activity of novel platinum(iv) N-heterocyclic carbene complexes of the general formula [(NHC)PtX4(L)], X = Br, Cl; L = nitrogen-containing ligand.
Two novel pillared-layer lanthanide borates built by Ln@B12O28/29 ring clusters and dicarboxylate linkers (Ln = Pr, Nd)
Authors: Li Lei-Lei , Pan Rui , Zhao Jun-Wei , Yang Bai-Feng , Yang Guo-Yu
Published: June 2016

Two unusual organic–inorganic hybrid pillared-layer lanthanide borates with two types of Ln-centered ring clusters, Ln@B12O28 and Ln@B12O29, have been made.
Optimum bifunctionality in a 2-(2-pyridyl-2-ol)-1,10-phenanthroline based ruthenium complex for transfer hydrogenation of ketones and nitriles: impact of the number of 2-hydroxypyridine fragments
Authors: Paul Bhaskar , Chakrabarti Kaushik , Kundu Sabuj
Published: June 2016

A rare example of a highly active bifunctional Ru(ii) catalyst containing only one 2-hydroxypyridine (2-HP) unit is presented which exhibited exceptionally high catalytic activity in transfer hydrogenation of ketones and nitriles.
Synthesis of Na-doped ZnO hollow spheres with improved photocatalytic activity for hydrogen production
Authors: Wu Zhiwei , Li Yaguang , Gao Linjie , Wang Shufang , Fu Guangsheng
Published: June 2016

The fabrication of p-type doped ZnO nanostructures is key in opening up substantial opportunities for the application of ZnO nanostructures.
Atomic Spectrometry Update: review of advances in elemental speciation
Authors: Clough Robert , Harrington Chris F. , Hill Steve J. , Madrid Yolanda , Tyson Julian F.
Published: June 2016

This review covers advances in elemental speciation by a range of coupled techniques, including HPLC-ICP-MS, HPLC-HG-AFS and GC-ICP-MS.
Fluorescent carbon dots derived from vancomycin for flutamide drug delivery and cell imaging
Authors: D'souza Stephanie L. , Deshmukh Balaji , Rawat Karuna A. , Bhamore Jigna R. , Lenka Nibedita , Kailasa Suresh Kumar
Published: June 2016

Fluorescent carbon dots were prepared using vancomycin as a precursor via hydrothermal treatment. The surfaces of CDs act as good candidates for capturing and releasing the flutamide drug in an acidic microenvironment (pH 5.2). The FLU-loaded CDs were found to be biocompatible towards MCF-7 and SH-SY5Y cells.
Synthesis and photophysical characteristics of 2,3,12,13-tetraalkylbacteriochlorins
Authors: Zhang Shaofei , Kim Han-Je , Tang Qun , Yang Eunkyung , Bocian David F. , Holten Dewey , Lindsey Jonathan S.
Published: June 2016

Tetraalkylbacteriochlorins, available upon acid-mediated self-condensation of α-ester stabilized dihydrodipyrrin-carboxaldehydes, provide valuable models of the naturally occurring bacteriochlorophylls.
Molecular design driving tetraporphyrin self-assembly on graphite: a joint STM, electrochemical and computational study
Authors: El Garah M. , Santana Bonilla A. , Ciesielski A. , Gualandi A. , Mengozzi L. , Fiorani A. , Iurlo M. , Marcaccio M. , Gutierrez R. , Rapino S. , Calvaresi M. , Zerbetto F. , Cuniberti G. , Cozzi P. G. , Paolucci F. , Samorì P.
Published: June 2016

Supramolecular engineering of porphyrin-based 2D architectures via non-covalent interactions.
Chemotherapeutic copolymers prepared via the RAFT polymerization of prodrug monomers
Authors: Son H. N. , Srinivasan S. , Yhee J. Y. , Das D. , Daugherty B. K. , Berguig G. Y. , Oehle V. G. , Kim S. H. , Kim K. , Kwon I. C. , Stayton P. S. , Convertine A. J.
Published: June 2016

Reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization was employed to prepare prodrug polymer carrier systems with the chemotherapeutic agent camptothecin (Cam) and the kinase inhibitor dasatinib (Dt).
Understanding the magnetism of {Fe2Ln} dimers, step-by-step
Authors: Baca S. G. , van Leusen J. , Speldrich M. , Kögerler P.
Published: June 2016

A hierarchical, comparative approach to the complex magnetochemistry of {Fe4M2}-type coordination clusters (M = Y, Eu, Gd, Dy) allows determination of intramolecular exchange energies.
Reaction of alkenecarboxylic acids with isocyanates via rhodium(iii)-catalyzed C–H activation: a versatile route to cyclic imides
Authors: Zhu You-Quan , Liu Yun , Wang Hai ning , Liu Wen bo , Li Chao-Jun
Published: June 2016

A versatile cascade route to cyclic imides via direct functionalization of the β-alkenyl C–H bond of alkenoic acids was developed.
A comparison of catabolic pathways induced in primary macrophages by pristine single walled carbon nanotubes and pristine graphene
Authors: McIntyre Jennifer , Verma Navin K. , Smith Ronan J. , Moore Caroline , Nerl Hannah , McEvoy Niall , Berner Nina , McGovern Ignatius , Khan Umar , Lyons Philip , O'Neill Luke , Nicolosi Valeria , Duesberg Georg S. , Byrne Hugh J. , Coleman Jonathan , Volkov Yuri
Published: June 2016

Understanding the correlation between the physico-chemical properties of carbonaceous nanomaterials and how these properties impact on cells and subcelluar mechanisms is critical to their risk assessment and safe translation into engineered devices.