bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of local heating in the 2015 Indian Heat Wave
Authors: Ghatak Debjani , Zaitchik Benjamin , Hain Christopher , Anderson Martha
Published: August 2017

India faced a major heat wave during the summer of 2015. Temperature anomalies peaked in the dry period before the onset of the summer monsoon, suggesting that local land-atmosphere feedbacks involving desiccated soils and vegetation might have played a role in driving the heat extreme. Upon examination of in situ data, reanalysis, satellite observations, and land surface models, we find that the heat wave included two distinct peaks: one in late May, and a second in early June. During the first peak we find that clear skies led to a positive net radiation anomaly at the surface, but there is no significant sensible heat flux anomaly within the core of the heat wave affected region. By the time of the second peak, however, soil moisture had dropped to anomalously low levels in the core heat wave region, net surface radiation was anomalously high, and a significant positive sensible heat flux anomaly developed. This led to a substantial local forcing on air temperature that contributed to the intensity of the event. The analysis indicates that the highly agricultural landscape of North and Central India can reinforce heat extremes under dry conditions.
Chromosome structural variation of two cultivated tetraploid cottons and their ancestral diploid species based on a new high-density genetic map
Authors: Wang Wen-wen , Tan Zhao-yun , Xu Ya-qiong , Zhu Ai-ai , Li Yan , Yao Jiang , Tian Rui , Fang Xiao-mei , Liu Xue-ying , Tian You-ming , Teng Zhong-hua , Zhang Jian , Liu Da-jun , Liu De-xin , Shang Hai-hong , Liu Fang , Zhang Zheng-sheng
Published: August 2017

A high-resolution genetic map is a useful tool for assaying genomic structural variation and clarifying the evolution of polyploid cotton. A total of 36956 SSRs, including 11289 released in previous studies and 25567 which were newly developed based on the genome sequences of G. arboreum and G. raimondii, were utilized to construct a new genetic map. The new high-density genetic map includes 6009 loci and spanned 3863.97 cM with an average distance of 0.64 cM between consecutive markers. Four inversions (one between Chr08 and Chr24, one between Chr09 and Chr23 and two between Chr10 and Chr20) were identified by homology analysis. Comparative genomic analysis between genetic map and two diploid cottons showed that structural variations between the A genome and At subgenome are more extensive than between D genome and Dt subgenome. A total of 17 inversions, seven simple translocations and two reciprocal translocations were identified between genetic map and G. raimondii. Good colinearity was revealed between the corresponding chromosomes of tetraploid G. hirsutum and G. barbadense genomes, but a total of 16 inversions were detected between them. These results will accelerate the process of evolution analysis of Gossipium genus.
Prognostic impact of CD133 expression in Endometrial Cancer Patients
Authors: Mancebo G. , Sole-Sedeno J. M. , Pino O. , Miralpeix E. , Mojal S. , Garrigos L. , Lloveras B. , Navarro P. , Gibert J. , Lorenzo M. , Aran I. , Carreras R. , Alameda F.
Published: August 2017

To assess the impact of CD133 expression on the prognosis of endometrioid endometrial carcinoma (EEC). We retrospectively assessed CD133 expression in tissue microarray of 116 surgically treated FIGO I-III EEC. Tumors with ≥10% of CD133-expressing cells were considered CD133-positive (CD133+). On the basis of CD133 expression, clinical and pathological parameters, progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were evaluated. Of the EEC studied 85.2% showed CD133-expressing cells. Only 61% (n = 66) of EEC presented ≥10% of CD133 expressing cells and were considered CD133+. The mean OS for CD133+ tumour patients was 161 months (95% CI, 154–168) as compared with 146 months (95% CI, 123–160) for those with CD133- tumors (p = 0.012). The mean PFS for CD133+ tumour was 159 months (95% CI, 149–168) as compared with 147 months (95% CI, 132-161) in those with a CD133-tumour (p = 0.014). CD133+ tumours were less likely to have vascular invasion (p = 0.010) and more likely to be well differentiated (p = 0.034). C133+ tumours predicted favorable OS and PFS of EEC patients, with a Hazard Ratio 4.731 (95% CI, 1.251–17.89; p = 0.022). CD133+ tumor status correlates with favorable prognosis of EEC. Our findings are in agreement with studies addressing brain and colorectal tumours.
Inhibition of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Preserves the Integrity of Blood-Spinal Cord Barrier in Diabetic Rats Subjected to Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: He Zili , Zou Shuang , Yin Jiayu , Gao Zhengzheng , Liu Yanlong , Wu Yanqing , He Huacheng , Zhou Yulong , Wang Qingqing , Li Jiawei , Wu Fenzan , Xu Hua-Zi , Jia Xiaofeng , Xiao Jian
Published: August 2017

The blood-spinal cord barrier (BSCB) plays significance roles in recovery following spinal cord injury (SCI), and diabetes mellitus (DM) impairs endothelial cell function and integrity of BSCS. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress occurs in the early stages of SCI and affects prognosis and cell survival. However, the relationship between ER stress and the integrity of BSCB in diabetic rats after SCI remains unclear. Here we observed that diabetic rats showed increased extravasation of Evans Blue (EB) dye, and loss of endothelial cells and pericytes 1 day after SCI compared to non-diabetic rats. Diabetes was also shown to induce activation of ER stress. Similar effects were observed in human brain microvascular endothelial cells. 4-phenylbutyric acid (4-PBA), an ER stress inhibitor lowered the adverse effect of diabetes on SCI, reduced EB dye extravasation, and limited the loss of endothelial cells and pericytes. Moreover, 4-PBA treatment partially reversed the degradation of tight junction and adherens junction both in vivo and in vitro. In conclusion, diabetes exacerbates the disruption of BSCB after SCI via inducing ER stress, and inhibition of ER stress by 4-PBA may play a beneficial role on the integrity of BSCB in diabetic SCI rats, leading to improved prognosis.
Beta-hydroxybutyrate, an endogenic NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitor, attenuates stress-induced behavioral and inflammatory responses
Authors: Yamanashi Takehiko , Iwata Masaaki , Kamiya Naho , Tsunetomi Kyohei , Kajitani Naofumi , Wada Nodoka , Iitsuka Takahiro , Yamauchi Takahira , Miura Akihiko , Pu Shenghong , Shirayama Yukihiko , Watanabe Ken , Duman Ronald S. , Kaneko Koichi
Published: August 2017

Neuro-inflammation has been shown to play a critical role in the development of depression. Beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) is a ketone body and has recently been reported to exert anti-inflammatory effects via inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome. Here, we investigated the potential antidepressant and anti-inflammatory effects of BHB on rats exposed to acute and chronic stress. We examined the influence of repeated BHB administration on depressive and anxiety behaviors in a rodent model of chronic unpredictable stress (CUS). Additionally, the influence of acute immobilization (IMM) stress and single BHB administration on hippocampal interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were assessed. Repeated administration of BHB attenuated CUS-induced depressive- and anxiety-related behaviors. IMM stress increased levels of IL-1β in the hippocampus, while a single pre-administration of BHB attenuated this increase. Although no effect was observed on hippocampal TNF-α levels after 1 h of IMM stress, a single BHB pre-administration reduced hippocampal TNF-α. Our previous report showed that the release of IL-1β and TNF-α caused by stress is tightly regulated by NLRP3 inflammasome. These findings demonstrate that BHB exerts antidepressant-like effects, possibly by inhibiting NLRP3-induced neuro-inflammation in the hippocampus, and that BHB may be a novel therapeutic candidate for the treatment of stress-related mood disorders.
Iran’s Land Suitability for Agriculture
Authors: Mesgaran Mohsen B. , Madani Kaveh , Hashemi Hossein , Azadi Pooya
Published: August 2017

Increasing population has posed insurmountable challenges to agriculture in the provision of future food security, particularly in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region where biophysical conditions are not well-suited for agriculture. Iran, as a major agricultural country in the MENA region, has long been in the quest for food self-sufficiency, however, the capability of its land and water resources to realize this goal is largely unknown. Using very high-resolution spatial data sets, we evaluated the capacity of Iran’s land for sustainable crop production based on the soil properties, topography, and climate conditions. We classified Iran’s land suitability for cropping as (million ha): very good 0.4% (0.6), good 2.2% (3.6), medium 7.9% (12.8), poor 11.4% (18.5), very poor 6.3% (10.2), unsuitable 60.0% (97.4), and excluded areas 11.9% (19.3). In addition to overarching limitations caused by low precipitation, low soil organic carbon, steep slope, and high soil sodium content were the predominant soil and terrain factors limiting the agricultural land suitability in Iran. About 50% of the Iran’s existing croplands are located in low-quality lands, representing an unsustainable practice. There is little room for cropland expansion to increase production but redistribution of cropland to more suitable areas may improve sustainability and reduce pressure on water resources, land, and ecosystem in Iran.
TiO2 nanoparticles functionalized by Pd nanoparticles for gas-sensing application with enhanced butane response performances
Authors: Chen Nan , Deng Dongyang , Li Yuxiu , Liu Xu , Xing Xinxin , Xiao Xuechun , Wang Yude
Published: August 2017

Pd functionalized TiO2 nanoparticles were synthesized by a facile hydrothermal method. The structure, morphology, surface chemical states and surface area were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and N2 adsorption-desorption isotherms, respectively. The as-synthesized pure and Pd functionalized TiO2 nanoparticles were used to fabricate indirect-heating gas sensor, and the gas-sensing characteristics towards butane were investigated. At the optimum temperature, the sensors possess good response, selectivity, response/recovery, repeatability as well as long-term stability. Especially for the high response, the response of 7.5 mol% Pd functionalized TiO2 nanoparticles based sensor reaches 33.93 towards 3000 ppm butane, which is about 9 times higher than that of pure TiO2 nanoparticles. The response and recovery time are 13 and 8 s, respectively. Those values demonstrate the potential of using as-synthesized Pd functionalized TiO2 nanoparticles as butane gas detection, particularly in the dynamic monitoring. Apart from these, a possible mechanism related to the enhanced sensing performance is also investigated.
Effects of Plasmonic Metal Core -Dielectric Shell Nanoparticles on the Broadband Light Absorption Enhancement in Thin Film Solar Cells
Authors: Yu Peng , Yao Yisen , Wu Jiang , Niu Xiaobin , Rogach Andrey L. , Wang Zhiming
Published: August 2017

To guide the design of plasmonic solar cells, theoretical investigation of core (metal)-shell (dielectric) nanoparticles for light absorption enhancement in thin film Si solar cells is performed. In contrast to the reported simulations and experimental results that rear-located surface plasmon on bare metallic nanoparticles is preferred, the core-shell nanoparticles demonstrate better performance when surface plasmon is located in front of a solar cell. This has been attributed to the enhanced forward scattering with vanishing backward scattering preserved over a wide spectral range in core-shell nanoparticles. This work provides a concept to achieve enhanced forward scattering with weakened backward scattering in plasmonic thin film solar cells.
Pre-stroke apathy symptoms are associated with an increased risk of delirium in stroke patients
Authors: Klimiec Elzbieta , Kowalska Katarzyna , Pasinska Paulina , Klimkowicz-Mrowiec Aleksandra , Szyper Aleksandra , Pera Joanna , Slowik Agnieszka , Dziedzic Tomasz
Published: August 2017

Neuropsychiatric symptoms can be interrelated to delirium. We aimed to investigate an association between pre-stroke neuropsychiatric symptoms and the risk of delirium in stroke patients. We included 606 patients (median age: 73, 53% female) with stroke or transient ischemic attack admitted within 48 hours from symptoms onset. We assessed delirium on a daily basis during the first 7 days of hospitalization. To make diagnosis of delirium we used DSM-5 criteria. We used Neuropsychiatric Inventory to assess neuropsychiatric symptoms occurring within 4 weeks prior to stroke. We diagnosed delirium in 28.2% of patients. On univariate analysis, higher score of pre-stroke depression (OR: 1.58, 95% CI: 1.04–2.40, P = 0.03), apathy (OR: 2.23, 95% CI: 1.44–3.45, P < 0.01), delusions (OR: 2.00, 95% CI: 1.09–3.68, P = 0.03), hallucinations (OR: 2.39, 95% CI: 1.19–4.81, P = 0.01) and disinhibition (OR: 2.10, 95% CI: 1.04–4.25, P = 0.04) was associated with the increased risk of delirium. On multivariate analysis adjusted for age, atrial fibrillation, diabetes mellitus, stroke severity, right hemisphere lesion, pre-stroke cognitive decline, pre-stroke disability and infections, higher apathy score (OR: 2.03, 95% CI: 1.17–3.50, P = 0.01), but no other neuropsychiatric symptoms, remained independent predictor of delirium. We conclude that pre-stroke apathy symptoms are associated with increased risk of delirium in stroke patients.
A Method Based on Artificial Intelligence To Fully Automatize The Evaluation of Bovine Blastocyst Images
Authors: Rocha José Celso , Passalia Felipe José , Matos Felipe Delestro , Takahashi Maria Beatriz , Ciniciato Diego de Souza , Maserati Marc Peter , Alves Mayra Fernanda , de Almeida Tamie Guibu , Cardoso Bruna Lopes , Basso Andrea Cristina , Nogueira Marcelo Fábio Gouveia
Published: August 2017

Morphological analysis is the standard method of assessing embryo quality; however, its inherent subjectivity tends to generate discrepancies among evaluators. Using genetic algorithms and artificial neural networks (ANNs), we developed a new method for embryo analysis that is more robust and reliable than standard methods. Bovine blastocysts produced in vitro were classified as grade 1 (excellent or good), 2 (fair), or 3 (poor) by three experienced embryologists according to the International Embryo Technology Society (IETS) standard. The images (n = 482) were subjected to automatic feature extraction, and the results were used as input for a supervised learning process. One part of the dataset (15%) was used for a blind test posterior to the fitting, for which the system had an accuracy of 76.4%. Interestingly, when the same embryologists evaluated a sub-sample (10%) of the dataset, there was only 54.0% agreement with the standard (mode for grades). However, when using the ANN to assess this sub-sample, there was 87.5% agreement with the modal values obtained by the evaluators. The presented methodology is covered by National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI) and World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) patents and is currently undergoing a commercial evaluation of its feasibility.
Protective role of cellular prion protein against TNFα-mediated inflammation through TACE α-secretase
Authors: Ezpeleta Juliette , Boudet-Devaud François , Pietri Mathéa , Baudry Anne , Baudouin Vincent , Alleaume-Butaux Aurélie , Dagoneau Nathalie , Kellermann Odile , Launay Jean-Marie , Schneider Benoit
Published: August 2017

Although cellular prion protein PrPCis well known for its implication in Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathies, its functions remain elusive. Combiningin vitroandin vivoapproaches, we here show that PrPCdisplays the intrinsic capacity to protect neuronal cells from a pro-inflammatory TNFα noxious insult. Mechanistically, PrPCcoupling to the NADPH oxidase-TACE α-secretase signaling pathway promotes TACE-mediated cleavage of transmembrane TNFα receptors (TNFRs) and the release of soluble TNFR, which limits the sensitivity of recipient cells to TNFα. We further show that PrPCexpression is necessary for TACE α-secretase to stay at the plasma membrane in an active state for TNFR shedding. Such PrPCcontrol of TACE localization depends on PrPCmodulation of β1 integrin signaling and downstream activation of ROCK-I and PDK1 kinases. Loss of PrPCprovokes TACE internalization, which in turn cancels TACE-mediated cleavage of TNFR and renders PrPC-depleted neuronal cells as well as PrPCknockout mice highly vulnerable to pro-inflammatory TNFα insult. Our work provides the prime evidence that in an inflammatory context PrPCadjusts the response of neuronal cells targeted by TNFα through TACE α-secretase. Our data also support the view that abnormal TACE trafficking and activity in prion diseases originate from a-loss-of-PrPCcytoprotective function.
Varying sensitivity of mountainous streamwater base-flow $${\bf{N}}{{\bf{O}}}_{{\bf{3}}}^{-}$$concentrations to N deposition in the northern suburbs of Tokyo
Authors: Nishina Kazuya , Watanabe Mirai , Koshikawa Masami K. , Takamatsu Takejiro , Morino Yu , Nagashima Tatsuya , Soma Kunika , Hayashi Seiji
Published: August 2017

Ecosystems of suburban landscapes (i.e., forest, inland water ecosystem) are threatened by high nitrogen (N) loadings derived from urban air pollutants. Forest ecosystems under high chronic N loadings tend to leach more N via streams. In the northern suburbs of Tokyo, N deposition loading on terrestrial ecosystems has increased over the past 30 years. In this region, we investigated nitrate concentrations in 608 independent small forested catchment water samples from northeastern suburbs of Tokyo. The nitrate concentrations varied from 0.07 to 3.31 mg-N L−1 in this region. We evaluated the effects of N deposition and catchment properties (e.g., meteorological and topographic factors, vegetation and soil types) on nitrate concentrations. In the random forest model, simulated N deposition rates from an atmospheric chemistry transportation model explained most of the variance of nitrate concentration. To evaluate the effects of afforestation management in the catchment, we followed a model-based recursive partitioning method (MOB). MOB succeeded in data-driven identification of subgroups with varying sensitivities to N deposition rate by vegetation composition in the catchment. According to MOB, the catchment with dominant coniferous coverage that mostly consisted of plantation with old tree age tended to have strong sensitivity of nitrate concentrations to N deposition loading.
Low temperature difference thermoacoustic prime mover with asymmetric multi-stage loop configuration
Authors: Jin T. , Yang R. , Wang Y. , Feng Y. , Tang K.
Published: August 2017

Environmentally friendly and low-cost technologies to recover low-grade heat source into usable energy can contribute to ease the energy shortage. Thermoacoustic technology is expected as one promising approach in this ascendant field. In this work, the multi-stage looped thermoacoustic prime movers with asymmetric configuration, which can provide travelling-wave resonator and appropriate acoustic field for efficient regenerator, have been proposed and experimentally studied. The presented looped thermoacoustic prime movers can start to oscillate with quite low temperature difference along the regenerator. The lowest onset temperature difference obtained in the experiments is only 17 °C (the corresponding heating temperature is 29 °C), which can be achieved in both three-stage and four-stage looped thermoacoustic prime movers, with CO2 of 1 MPa or 1.5 MPa as the working fluid. An electric generator driven by a three-stage looped thermoacoustic prime mover with low heating temperature was tested to achieve the acoustic to electric conversion.
Confinement suppresses instabilities in particle-laden droplets
Authors: Bansal Lalit , Basu Saptarshi , Chakraborty Suman
Published: August 2017

Tiny concentrations of suspended particles may alter the behavior of an evaporating droplet remarkably, leading to partially viscous and partially elastic dynamical characteristics. This, in turn, may lead to some striking mechanical instabilities, such as buckling and rupture. Here, we report certain non-trivial implications of the consequent morpho-dynamics (macro to nano scales), when such an evaporating droplet is encapsulated in a confined environment. Compared to unconfined scenario, we report non-intuitive suppression of rupturing beyond a critical confinement. We attribute this to confinement-induced dramatic alteration in the evaporating flux, leading to distinctive spatio-temporal characteristics of the internal flow leading to preferential particle transport and subsequent morphological transitions. We present a regime map quantifying buckling-non buckling pathways. These results may turn out to be of profound importance towards achieving desired morphological features of a colloidal droplet, by aptly tuning the confinement space, initial particle concentration, as well as the initial droplet volume.
Ebola virus VP24 interacts with NP to facilitate nucleocapsid assembly and genome packaging
Authors: Banadyga Logan , Hoenen Thomas , Ambroggio Xavier , Dunham Eric , Groseth Allison , Ebihara Hideki
Published: August 2017

Ebola virus causes devastating hemorrhagic fever outbreaks for which no approved therapeutic exists. The viral nucleocapsid, which is minimally composed of the proteins NP, VP35, and VP24, represents an attractive target for drug development; however, the molecular determinants that govern the interactions and functions of these three proteins are still unknown. Through a series of mutational analyses, in combination with biochemical and bioinformatics approaches, we identified a region on VP24 that was critical for its interaction with NP. Importantly, we demonstrated that the interaction between VP24 and NP was required for both nucleocapsid assembly and genome packaging. Not only does this study underscore the critical role that these proteins play in the viral replication cycle, but it also identifies a key interaction interface on VP24 that may serve as a novel target for antiviral therapeutic intervention.
Expression changes in pelvic organ prolapse: a systematic review and in silico study
Authors: Khadzhieva Maryam B. , Kolobkov Dmitry S. , Kamoeva Svetlana V. , Salnikova Lyubov E.
Published: August 2017

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a highly disabling condition common for a vast number of women worldwide. To contribute to existing knowledge in POP pathogenesis, we performed a systematic review of expression studies on both specific gene and whole-genome/proteome levels and an in silico analysis of publicly available datasets related to POP development. The most extensively investigated genes in individual studies were related to extracellular matrix (ECM) organization. Three premenopausal and two postmenopausal sets from two Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) studies (GSE53868 and GSE12852) were analyzed; Gene Ontology (GO) terms related to tissue repair (locomotion, biological adhesion, immune processes and other) were enriched in all five datasets. Co-expression was higher in cases than in controls in three premenopausal sets. The shared between two or more datasets up-regulated genes were enriched with those related to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in the NHGRI GWAS Catalog. ECM-related genes were not over-represented among differently expressed genes. Up-regulation of genes related to tissue renewal probably reflects compensatory mechanisms aimed at repair of damaged tissue. Inefficiency of this process may have different origins including age-related deregulation of gene expression.
Multiple excitatory actions of orexins upon thalamo-cortical neurons in dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus - implications for vision modulation by arousal
Authors: Chrobok Lukasz , Palus-Chramiec Katarzyna , Chrzanowska Anna , Kepczynski Mariusz , Lewandowski Marian Henryk
Published: August 2017

The orexinergic system of the lateral hypothalamus plays a crucial role in maintaining wakefulness and mediating arousal in a circadian time-dependent manner. Due to the extensive connections of orexinergic neurons, both orexins (OXA and OXB) exert mainly excitatory effects upon remote brain areas, including the thalamus. The dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (DLG) is a relay thalamic centre for the visual system. Its thalamo-cortical (TC) neurons convey photic information from the retina to the primary visual cortex. The present study shows that orexins are powerful modulators of neuronal activity in the DLG. OXA directly depolarised the majority of neurons tested, acting predominately on postsynaptic OX2 receptors. Moreover, OXA was found to increase excitability and enhance neuronal responses to both glutamate and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Mechanistic studies showed the involvement of voltage-gated calcium currents and GIRK channels in the observed depolarisations. Immunohistochemical staining showed sparse orexinergic innervation of the DLG during the light phase, with increased density at night. We hypothesise that the depolarising effects of orexins upon DLG neurons may facilitate signal transmission through the visual thalamo-cortical pathway during behavioural arousal. Thus, the action of orexin on DLG TC neurons may underlie the circadian/behavioural modulation of vision.
On the chemistry of 1-pyrroline in solution and in the gas phase
Authors: Zhang Xiaoping , Chingin Konstantin , Zhong Dacai , Liang Juchao , Ouyang Yongzhong , Chen Huanwen
Published: August 2017

1-Pyrroline has a highly characteristic odor, which is employed by living organisms for chemical signaling and other purposes, but the mechanism whereby this odor is formed remains poorly understood. Here we used a combination of ambient mass spectrometry (AMS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy to experimentally address the mechanistic aspects of 1-pyrroline volatility and other controversies regarding the chemistry of this compound. Our results indicate that in solution the volatility of the monomer species is significantly higher than that of the trimer species, and 1-pyrroline is evaporated mainly in its monomer state. Neat 1-pyrroline is essentially the pure trimer and displays ca. 100-fold lower evaporation rate than the monomer state in solution. In the gas-phase the trimer species is irreversibly decomposed into monomer species. Under equilibrium conditions the vapor of 1-pyrroline entirely consists of monomer species. The evaporation rate of 1-pyrroline in water has a step-wise dependence on the solution pH, the abrupt increase in volatility (>1,000-fold) occurring around the pKa value of 1-pyrroline (6.8). The pronounced step-wise dependence of 1-pyrroline volatility around neutral pH may also be an important evolutionary factor allowing living systems to regulate the odor strength from very weak to very strong with minimal efforts.
Virus-like particles that display Zika virus envelope protein domain III induce potent neutralizing immune responses in mice
Authors: Yang Ming , Lai Huafang , Sun Haiyan , Chen Qiang
Published: August 2017

Several Zika virus (ZIKV) vaccine candidates have recently been described which use inactivated whole virus, DNA or RNA that express the virus’ Envelope (E) glycoprotein as the antigen. These were successful in stimulating production of virus-targeted antibodies that protected animals against ZIKV challenges, but their use potentially will predispose vaccinated individuals to infection by the related Dengue virus (DENV). We have devised a virus like particle (VLP) carrier based on the hepatitis B core antigen (HBcAg) that displays the ZIKV E protein domain III (zDIII), and shown that it can be produced quickly and easily purified in large quantities from Nicotiana benthamiana plants. HBcAg-zDIII VLPs are shown to be highly immunogenic, as two doses elicited potent humoral and cellular responses in mice that exceed the threshold correlated with protective immunity against multiple strains of Zika virus. Notably, HBcAg-zDIII VLPs-elicited antibodies did not enhance the infection of DENV in Fc gamma receptor-expressing cells, offsetting the concern of ZIKV vaccines inducing cross-reactive antibodies and sensitizing people to subsequent DENV infection. Thus, our zDIII-based vaccine offers improved safety and lower cost production than other current alternatives, with equivalent effectiveness.
Neuroimaging biomarkers to associate obesity and negative emotions
Authors: Park Bo-yong , Hong Jisu , Park Hyunjin
Published: August 2017

Obesity is a serious medical condition highly associated with health problems such as diabetes, hypertension, and stroke. Obesity is highly associated with negative emotional states, but the relationship between obesity and emotional states in terms of neuroimaging has not been fully explored. We obtained 196 emotion task functional magnetic resonance imaging (t-fMRI) from the Human Connectome Project database using a sampling scheme similar to a bootstrapping approach. Brain regions were specified by automated anatomical labeling atlas and the brain activity (z-statistics) of each brain region was correlated with body mass index (BMI) values. Regions with significant correlation were identified and the brain activity of the identified regions was correlated with emotion-related clinical scores. Hippocampus, amygdala, and inferior temporal gyrus consistently showed significant correlation between brain activity and BMI and only the brain activity in amygdala consistently showed significant negative correlation with fear-affect score. The brain activity in amygdala derived from t-fMRI might be good neuroimaging biomarker for explaining the relationship between obesity and a negative emotional state.
Different sample preparation methods for the analysis of suspension fertilizers combining LIBS and liquid-to-solid matrix conversion: determination of essential and toxic elements
Authors: Andrade Daniel Fernandes , Sperança Marco Aurelio , Pereira-Filho Edenir Rodrigues
Published: August 2017

A novel calibration method was developed for the determination of macronutrients in suspension fertilizer samples by laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS).
Molecular co-assembly as a strategy for synergistic improvement of the mechanical properties of hydrogels
Authors: Halperin-Sternfeld Michal , Ghosh Moumita , Sevostianov Rina , Grigoriants Irena , Adler-Abramovich Lihi
Published: August 2017

We have applied a co-assembly approach to synergistically modulate the mechanical properties of peptide hydrogels, thereby forming extremely stable and rigid hydrogels.
Stoichiometric and catalytic isomerization of alkenylboranes using bulky Lewis bases
Authors: Tsao Fu An , Sathaseevan Anson , Zhu Hui , Grimme Stefan , Erker Gerhard , Stephan Douglas W.
Published: August 2017

Mixtures of E and Z isomers of alkenylboranes are isomerized upon treatment with stoichiometric or catalytic amounts of tBu2PH or other donors.
Supramolecular five-component nano-oscillator
Authors: Samanta Debabrata , Paul Indrajit , Schmittel Michael
Published: August 2017

A five-component self-sorted metallo-supramolecular nano-oscillator was designed based on the full orthogonality of three different dynamic complexation motifs.
Orthogonal switching of self-sorting processes in a stimuli-responsive library of cucurbit[8]uril complexes
Authors: Schoder Stefan , Schalley Christoph A.
Published: August 2017

The self-sorting processes in dynamic libraries of cucurbit[8]uril complexes can be switched orthogonally by pH and redox stimuli.
Transition-metal doping induces the transition of electronic and magnetic properties in armchair MoS2 nanoribbons
Authors: Pan Jing , Wang Rui , Zhou Xiaoyu , Zhong Jiansheng , Xu Xiaoyong , Hu Jingguo
Published: August 2017

The electronic structure, magnetic properties and stability of transition-metal (TM) doped armchair MoS2 nanoribbons (AMoS2NRs) with full hydrogen passivation have been investigated using density functional theory.
Anisotropic carrier mobility in two-dimensional materials with tilted Dirac cones: theory and application
Authors: Cheng Ting , Lang Haifeng , Li Zhenzhu , Liu Zhongfan , Liu Zhirong
Published: August 2017

An analytical formula for the carrier mobility in semimetals with tilted Dirac cones was obtained, and applied to 8B-Pmmn borophene and 2BH-Pmmn borophane.
Criticality of the phase transition on stage two in a lattice-gas model of a graphite anode in a lithium-ion battery
Authors: Gavilán Arriazu E. M. , López de Mishima B. A. , Oviedo O. A. , Leiva E. P. M. , Pinto O. A.
Published: August 2017

Herein, a Monte Carlo study within the canonical assembly has been applied to elucidate the lithium-ion phase transition order of a stage II lithium–graphite intercalation compound (LiC12).
Cold atom–atom–ion three-body recombination of 4He–4He–X− (X = H or D)
Authors: Wang Bin-Bin , Han Yong-Chang , Gao Wei , Cong Shu-Lin
Published: August 2017

The atom–atom–ion three-body recombination (TBR) of mixed 4He and X− (X = H or D) systems is investigated by solving the Schrödinger equation using the adiabatic hyperspherical representation method.
Cyclometalated iridium(iii) N-heterocyclic carbene complexes as potential mitochondrial anticancer and photodynamic agents
Authors: Li Yi , Liu Bing , Lu Xin-Ran , Li Meng-Feng , Ji Liang-Nian , Mao Zong-Wan
Published: August 2017

Phosphorescent iridium(iii) N-heterocyclic complexes have been explored as potential mitochondria-targeted anticancer and photodynamic agents.
A metalloporphyrin-based porous organic polymer as an efficient catalyst for the catalytic oxidation of olefins and arylalkanes
Authors: Ding Zheng-Dong , Zhu Wei , Li Tao , Shen Rui , Li Yunxing , Li Zaijun , Ren Xuehong , Gu Zhi-Guo
Published: August 2017

A metalloporphyrin-based porous organic polymer contains both micropores and mesopores, which are favourable for mass transfer in heterogeneous catalysis.
Physical and chemical model of ion stability and movement within the dynamic and voltage-gated STM tip–surface tunneling junction
Authors: Hirsch Brandon E. , McDonald Kevin P. , Tait Steven L. , Flood Amar H.
Published: August 2017

The interaction and mobility of ions in complex systems are fundamental to processes throughout chemistry, biology, and physics. However, nanoscale characterization of ion stability and migration remains poorly understood. Here, we examine ion movements to and from physisorbed molecular receptors at solution–graphite interfaces by developing a theoretical model alongside experimental scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) results. The model includes van der Waals forces and electrostatic interactions originating from the surface, tip, and physisorbed receptors, as well as a tip–surface electric field arising from the STM bias voltage (Vb). Our model reveals how both the electric field and tip–surface distance, dtip, can influence anion stability at the receptor binding sites on the surface or at the STM tip, as well as the size of the barrier for anion transitions between those locations. These predictions agree well with prior and new STM results from the interactions of anions with aryl-triazole receptors that order into functional monolayers on graphite. Scanning produces clear resolution at large magnitude negative surface biases (−0.8 V) while resolution degrades at small negative surface biases (−0.4 V). The loss in resolution arises from frequent tip retractions assigned to anion migration within the tip–surface tunneling region. This experimental evidence in combination with support from the model demonstrates a local voltage gating of anions with the STM tip inside physisorbed receptors. This generalized model and experimental evidence may help to provide a basis to understand the nanoscale details of related chemical transformations and their underlying thermodynamic and kinetic preferences.
Oximes as reusable templates for the synthesis of ureas and carbamates by an in situ generation of carbamoyl oximes
Authors: Senadi Gopal Chandru , Mutra Mohana Reddy , Lu Ting-Yi , Wang Jeh-Jeng
Published: August 2017

Oximes have been identified as reusable templates for the synthesis of ureas and carbamates by anin situgeneration of carbamoyl oximes under metal-free conditions.
A promising catalyst for exclusive para hydroxylation of substituted aromatic hydrocarbons under UV light
Authors: Das Vijay Kumar , Gogoi Satyabrat , Choudary Boyapati Manoranjan , Karak Niranjan
Published: August 2017

Herein, we describe a waterborne polymer/carbon dot nanocomposite system as an efficient, resourceful and sustainable photocatalyst for para-selective hydroxylation of substituted aromatic compounds using H2O2 under UV light.
Isomerization of glucose to fructose catalyzed by lithium bromide in water
Authors: Yoo Chang Geun , Li Ning , Swannell Melanie , Pan Xuejun
Published: August 2017

Both Br−and Li+catalyzed the isomerization of glucose in aqueous lithium bromide solution.
Cell-free extract based optimization of biomolecular circuits with droplet microfluidics
Authors: Hori Yutaka , Kantak Chaitanya , Murray Richard M. , Abate Adam R.
Published: August 2017

We combine cell-free protein expression systems with droplet microfluidics to enable ultrahigh-throughput parameter space exploration of synthetic biocircuits.
Microfluidic modeling of the biophysical microenvironment in tumor cell invasion
Authors: Huang Yu Ling , Segall Jeffrey E. , Wu Mingming
Published: August 2017

Microfluidic model for the physical tumor microenvironment: intramural and interstitial flows and extracellular matrices (ECMs).
A fluorescent nanoprobe based on cellulose nanocrystals with porphyrin pendants for selective quantitative trace detection of Hg2+
Authors: Chen Jiangdi , Zhou Zixuan , Chen Zixun , Yuan Weizhong , Li Maoquan
Published: August 2017

A well-dispersed chemosensor based on cellulose nanocrystals with porphyrin pendants presented high sensitivity and selectivity for trace Hg2+ in aqueous solution.
Influence of annealing temperature on the spectroscopic properties of hydroxyapatite analogues doped with Eu3+
Authors: Zawisza Katarzyna , Strzep Adam , Wiglusz Rafal J.
Published: August 2017

Nanosized calcium and strontium hydroxyapatites doped with 2 mol% Eu3+ ions were obtained by using a microwave-assisted hydrothermal method.
Ci-Symmetry, [2 × 2] grid, square copper complex with the N4,N5-bis(4-fluorophenyl)-1H-imidazole-4,5-dicarboxamide ligand: structure, catecholase activity, magnetic properties and DFT calculations
Authors: Parween Arfa , Naskar Sumita , Mota Antonio J. , Espinosa Ferao Arturo , Chattopadhyay Shyamal Kumar , Rivière Eric , Lewis William , Naskar Subhendu
Published: August 2017

An antiferromagnetically coupled tetranuclear copper complex of a dinucleating bis amide ligand displays catecholase activity.
Synthesis of novel fused chromone–pyrimidine hybrids and 2,4,5-trisubstituted pyrimidine derivatives via ANRORC rearrangement
Authors: Sambaiah M. , Raghavulu K. , Shiva Kumar K. , Yennam Satyanarayana , Behera Manoranjan
Published: August 2017

A facile and versatile procedure for the synthesis of functionalized novel 2,5-diphenyl-5H-chromeno[4,3-d]pyrimidin-5-ol and (2,4-diphenylpyrimidin-5-yl) (2-hydroxyphenyl) methanone has been described.
Double-decker luminescent ytterbium and erbium SMMs with symmetric and asymmetric Schiff base ligands
Authors: Gholizadeh Dogaheh Samira , Khanmohammadi Hamid , Sañudo E. Carolina
Published: August 2017

Multifunctional molecules that respond both to magnetic fields and light are subject of study due to possible applications in fields as diverse as imaging or information processing and storage.
A ratiometric fluorescent probe for sensing sulfite based on a pyrido[1,2-a]benzimidazole fluorophore
Authors: Liu Aikun , Ji Ruixue , Shen Shili , Cao Xiaoqun , Ge Yanqing
Published: August 2017

A ratiometric fluorescent probe for sensing SO32− based on a new pyrido[1,2-a]benzimidazole fluorescent dye was synthesized.
Expansion of chemical space for natural products by uncommon P450 reactions
Authors: Zhang Xingwang , Li Shengying
Published: August 2017

This review focuses on unusual P450 reactions related to new chemistry, skeleton construction, structure re-shaping, and protein–protein interactions in natural product biosynthesis, which play significant roles in chemical space expansion for natural products.
Encapsidated ultrasmall nanolipospheres as novel nanocarriers for highly hydrophobic anticancer drugs
Authors: Loredo-Tovias M. , Duran-Meza A. L. , Villagrana-Escareño M. V. , Vega-Acosta R. , Reynaga-Hernández E. , Flores-Tandy Ll. M. , Valdes-Resendiz O. E. , Cadena-Nava R. D. , Alvizo-Paez E. R. , Ruiz-Garcia J.
Published: August 2017

Virus-like particles containing ultrasmall nanolipospheres as nanocarriers of hydrophobic anticancer drugs.
Carbon nano-dots as a fluorescent and colorimetric dual-readout probe for the detection of arginine and Cu2+and its logic gate operation
Authors: Lu Wenjing , Gao Yifang , Jiao Yuan , Shuang Shaomin , Li Chenzhong , Dong Chuan
Published: August 2017

A dual-mode carbon nano-dot (CND) probe with both colorimetric and fluorometric readouts for the stepwise detection of Arg and Cu2+.
Frequency-selective electrokinetic enrichment of biomolecules in physiological media based on electrical double-layer polarization
Authors: Rohani Ali , Sanghavi Bankim J. , Salahi Armita , Liao Kuo-Tang , Chou Chia-Fu , Swami Nathan S.
Published: August 2017

Frequency-selective negative dielectrophoresis for selective enrichment of prostate specific antigenversusanti-mouse immunoglobulin to reduce immunoassay interferences.
Polyaniline-loaded γ-polyglutamic acid nanogels as a platform for photoacoustic imaging-guided tumor photothermal therapy
Authors: Zhou Yiwei , Hu Yong , Sun Wenjie , Zhou Benqing , Zhu Jianzhi , Peng Chen , Shen Mingwu , Shi Xiangyang
Published: August 2017

γ-Polyglutamic acid nanogels can be used as a nanoreactor to load polyaniline for efficient photoacoustic imaging-guided tumor photothermal therapy.
Plasmon-driven sub-picosecond breathing of metal nanoparticles
Authors: Bonafé Franco P. , Aradi Bálint , Guan Mengxue , Douglas-Gallardo Oscar A. , Lian Chao , Meng Sheng , Frauenheim Thomas , Sánchez Cristián G.
Published: August 2017

We report the first real-time computational study that shows evidence of sub-picosecond beathing oscillations in metal nanoparticles under strong laser pulse illumination.
Plasmonic heating from indium nanoparticles on a floating microporous membrane for enhanced solar seawater desalination
Authors: Zhang Lulu , Xing Jun , Wen Xinglin , Chai Jianwei , Wang Shijie , Xiong Qihua
Published: August 2017

A portable paper-like plasmonic device consisting of a microporous membrane and indium nanoparticles (In NP/MPM) is fabricated through a simple thermal evaporation method, which can effectively enhance solar water evaporation by floating on the water surface.
Highly enantioselective Rh/chiral sulfur-olefin-catalyzed arylation of alkyl-substituted non-benzofused cyclic N-sulfonyl ketimines
Authors: Liu Ming-Qing , Jiang Tao , Chen Wen-Wen , Xu Ming-Hua
Published: August 2017

An effective catalyst system for the highly enantioselective synthesis of α-arylalkyl-substituted sulfamidates with a quaternary stereogenic center has been developed.
Preparation of carbon aerogels from TEMPO-oxidized cellulose nanofibers for organic solvents absorption
Authors: Wang Meng , Shao Changyou , Zhou Sukun , Yang Jun , Xu Feng
Published: August 2017

In this study, ultralight and hydrophobic carbon aerogels were prepared from 2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-1-piperidinyloxy (TEMPO)-oxidized cellulose nanofibers (TOCN) for the removal of organic solvents.
Glycerol hydrogenolysis over a Pt–Ni bimetallic catalyst with hydrogen generated in situ
Authors: Yan Yuqiang , Zhang Yiying , Jiang Tao , Xiao Tiancun , Edwards Peter P. , Cao Fahai
Published: August 2017

Pt–Ni catalyst significantly promotes the conversion and selectivity of 1,2-PDO due to a strong interaction between Pt and Ni.
Photoresponsive amphiphilic block macrocycles bearing azobenzene side chains
Authors: Li Lishan , Cai Ye , Zhang Zhengbiao , Zhang Wei , Zhou Nianchen , Zhu Xiulin
Published: August 2017

The cyclic architecture has an impact on the photoisomerization and packing behavior of micellar aggregates of amphiphilic block copolymers bearing pendant azobenzene and carboxyl groups as compared to their linear counterparts.
Protein labeling for live cell fluorescence microscopy with a highly photostable renewable signal
Authors: Bozhanova Nina G. , Baranov Mikhail S. , Klementieva Natalia V. , Sarkisyan Karen S. , Gavrikov Alexey S. , Yampolsky Ilia V. , Zagaynova Elena V. , Lukyanov Sergey A. , Lukyanov Konstantin A. , Mishin Alexander S.
Published: August 2017

A novel method of protein labeling uses the highly dynamic reversible association of a cell-permeable fluorogenic dye and lipocalin Blc mutants.
Biosynthesis of methyl-proline containing griselimycins, natural products with anti-tuberculosis activity
Authors: Lukat Peer , Katsuyama Yohei , Wenzel Silke , Binz Tina , König Claudia , Blankenfeldt Wulf , Brönstrup Mark , Müller Rolf
Published: August 2017

The biosynthesis of griselimycins inStreptomycesDSM 40835 and the pathway that stereospecifically convertsl-leucine to (2S,4R)-4-methyl-proline are reported by means of biochemical and structural analysis.
A facile template approach to nitrogen-doped hierarchical porous carbon nanospheres from polydopamine for high-performance supercapacitors
Authors: Xiong Shuqiang , Fan Jinchen , Wang Yan , Zhu Jing , Yu Junrong , Hu Zuming
Published: August 2017

A facile polydopamine-templated approach to nitrogen-doped hierarchical porous carbon nanospheres for high-performance supercapacitors.
A strong and tough polymer–carbon nanotube film for flexible and efficient electromagnetic interference shielding
Authors: Jia Li-Chuan , Li Meng-Zhu , Yan Ding-Xiang , Cui Cheng-Hua , Wu Hong-Yuan , Li Zhong-Ming
Published: August 2017

A strong and tough CNT-NR film with excellent EMI SE (44.7 dB@250 μm) is realized.
Phosphorescent mechanochromism through the contraction of Ag12Cu2 clusters in tetradecanuclear copper–silver acetylide complexes
Authors: Zhang Xu , Wang Jin-Yun , Qiao Di , Chen Zhong-Ning
Published: August 2017

Tetradecanuclear Ag12Cu2 acetylide cluster complexes show a dramatic phosphorescent change from yellow to orange with a drastic emission spectral red-shift upon mechanical grinding due to increased intermetallic contact within Ag12Cu2 clusters.