bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genotypic and environmental variability of yield from seven different crops in Croatian official variety trials and comparison with on-farm trends
Authors: ZORIĆ M. , GUNJAČA J. , ŠIMIĆ D.
Published: November 2016

Assessment of the value for cultivation and use (VCU) of a new cultivar, essential for its official registration, is done through a series of trials carried out over a 2–3-year period and across many locations. In a set of multi-environment VCU trials, evaluation of new genotypes can be a laborious task due to the presence of genotype by environment interactions, which can hide their true genetic value. In an attempt to reveal the true genetic value of new cultivars, a good starting point is investigation of the importance of various genetic and environmental sources of variation, which can be done by estimating relative magnitude of corresponding variance components within the mixed model framework.

Genotype × location × year (G × L × Y) data set for seven crops taken from the 10-year period 2001–10 was used in the present study to estimate the variance components for main effects and their interactions in Croatian VCU trials. Depending on the crop, the most important and least important components were Y or LY, and L or GL, respectively. Genotypic effect was relatively small, ranging from 2·1 to 13·4% of the total variation. The current results are comparable with the relative sizes of the variance components obtained in studies from four- to sixfold larger countries, indicating that the environments within Croatia, if sufficiently widely sampled, can provide as extreme cultivar responses as a geographically more dispersed set of VCU trials. The gap range in different crops is much wider (30–60%) than in Western Europe (up to 30%), but it remained constant over the 10-year period.
Central European parasitic flatworms of the Cyclocoelidae Stossich, 1902 (Trematoda: Plagiorchiida): molecular and comparative morphological analysis suggests the reclassification of Cyclocoelum obscurum (Leidy, 1887) into the Harrahium Witenberg, 1926
Authors: SITKO JILJÍ , BIZOS JIŘÍ , HENEBERG PETR
Published: November 2016

Cyclocoelidae Stossich, 1902 are medium-sized to large digenean bird parasites. Although these parasites bear few visible autapomorphic signs, and their diagnostic characters are unstable in response to the pressure applied during preparation, the numerous hitherto suggested re-classifications within the family have not been supported by any molecular analysis. We analyse here cyclocoelids found during the extensive examination of central European birds performed from 1962 to 2016, provide comparative measurements, host spectra, prevalence and intensity, and provide and analyse sequences of four DNA loci of five of the cyclocoelid species. Cyclocoleum Brandes, 1892 appears paraphyletic; thus we suggest the re-classification of Cyclocoleum obscurum (Leidy, 1887) as Harrahium obscurum (Leidy, 1887) Sitko and Heneberg comb. n. Molecular phylogenetics questioned also the validity of Cyclocoelinae Stossich, 1902 and Hyptiasminae Dollfus, 1948, which formed a single clade, whereas Allopyge Johnston, 1913, Prohyptiasmus Witenberg, 1923 and Morishitium Witenberg, 1928 formed another clade. Haematotrephinae Dollfus, 1948 are newly characterized as having a pretesticular or intertesticular ovary that forms a triangle with the testes. Analyses of non-European genera of the Cyclocoelidae and an examination of the position of families within Echinostomata La Rue, 1926 are needed.
Alcohol use is associated with thinner cerebral cortex and larger ventricles in schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and healthy controls
Authors: Lange E. H. , Nerland S. , Jørgensen K. N. , Mørch-Johnsen L. , Nesvåg R. , Hartberg C. B. , Haukvik U. K. , Osnes K. , Melle I. , Andreassen O. A. , Agartz I.
Published: November 2016

Background

Excessive alcohol use is associated with brain damage but less is known about brain effects from moderate alcohol use. Previous findings indicate that patients with severe mental illness, particularly schizophrenia, are vulnerable to alcohol-related brain damage. We investigated the association between levels of alcohol consumption and cortical and subcortical brain structures in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder patients and healthy controls, and investigated for group differences for this association.

Method

1.5 T structural magnetic resonance images were acquired of 609 alcohol-using participants (165 schizophrenia patients, 172 bipolar disorder patients, 272 healthy controls), mean (s.d.) age 34.2 (9.9) years, 52% men. Past year alcohol use was assessed with the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test – Consumption part (AUDIT-C). General linear models were used to investigate associations between AUDIT-C score and cortical thickness, surface area, and total brain and subcortical volumes.

Results

Increasing AUDIT-C score was linearly associated with thinner cortex in medial and dorsolateral frontal and parieto-occipital regions, and with larger left lateral ventricle volume. There was no significant interaction between AUDIT-C score and diagnostic group. The findings remained significant after controlling for substance use disorders, antipsychotic medication and illness severity.

Conclusion

The results show a dose-dependent relationship between alcohol use and thinner cortex and ventricular expansion. The findings are present also at lower levels of alcohol consumption and do not differ between schizophrenia or bipolar disorder patients compared to healthy controls. Our results do not support previous findings of increased vulnerability for alcohol-related brain damage in severe mental illness.
Efficacy of sequential nephron blockade with intravenous chlorothiazide to promote diuresis in cardiac intensive care infants
Authors: Moffett Brady S. , Tsang Rocky , Kennedy Curt , Bronicki Ron A. , Akcan-Arikan Ayse , Checchia Paul A.
Published: November 2016

Background

Sequential nephron blockade using intravenous chlorothiazide is often used to enhance urine output in patients with inadequate response to loop diuretics. A few data exist to support this practice in critically ill infants.

Methods

We included 100 consecutive patients <1 year of age who were administered intravenous chlorothiazide while receiving furosemide therapy in the cardiac ICU in our study. The primary end point was change in urine output 24 hours after chlorothiazide administration, and patients were considered to be responders if an increase in urine output of 0.5 ml/kg/hour was documented. Data on demographic, clinical, fluid intake/output, and furosemide and chlorothiazide dosing were collected. Multivariable regression analyses were performed to determine variables significant for increase in urine output after chlorothiazide administration.

Results

The study population was 48% male, with a mean weight of 4.9±1.8 kg, and 69% had undergone previous cardiovascular surgery. Intravenous chlorothiazide was initiated at 89 days (interquartile range 20–127 days) of life at a dose of 4.6±2.7 mg/kg/day (maximum 12 mg/kg/day). Baseline estimated creatinine clearance was 83±42 ml/minute/1.73 m2. Furosemide dose before chlorothiazide administration was 2.8±1.4 mg/kg/day and 3.3±1.5 mg/kg/day after administration. A total of 43% of patients were categorised as responders, and increase in furosemide dose was the only variable significant for increase in urine output on multivariable analysis (p<0.05). No graphical trends were noted for change in urine output and dose of chlorothiazide.

Conclusions

Sequential nephron blockade with intravenous chlorothiazide was not consistently associated with improved urine output in critically ill infants.
Photomotility of polymers
Authors: Wie Jeong Jae , Shankar M. Ravi , White Timothy J.
Published: November 2016

Light is distinguished as a contactless energy source for microscale devices as it can be directed from remote distances, rapidly turned on or off, spatially modulated across length scales, polarized, or varied in intensity. Motivated in part by these nascent properties of light, transducing photonic stimuli into macroscopic deformation of materials systems has been examined in the last half-century. Here we report photoinduced motion (photomotility) in monolithic polymer films prepared from azobenzene-functionalized liquid crystalline polymer networks (azo-LCNs). Leveraging the twisted-nematic orientation, irradiation with broad spectrum ultraviolet–visible light (320–500 nm) transforms the films from flat sheets to spiral ribbons, which subsequently translate large distances with continuous irradiation on an arbitrary surface. The motion results from a complex interplay of photochemistry and mechanics. We demonstrate directional control, as well as climbing.
Hydrogenated monolayer graphene with reversible and tunable wide band gap and its field-effect transistor
Authors: Son Jangyup , Lee Soogil , Kim Sang Jin , Park Byung Cheol , Lee Han-Koo , Kim Sanghoon , Kim Jae Hoon , Hong Byung Hee , Hong Jongill
Published: November 2016

Graphene is currently at the forefront of cutting-edge science and technology due to exceptional electronic, optical, mechanical, and thermal properties. However, the absence of a sizeable band gap in graphene has been a major obstacle for application. To open and control a band gap in functionalized graphene, several gapping strategies have been developed. In particular, hydrogen plasma treatment has triggered a great scientific interest, because it has been known to be an efficient way to modify the surface of single-layered graphene and to apply for standard wafer-scale fabrication. Here we show a monolayer chemical-vapour-deposited graphene hydrogenated by indirect hydrogen plasma without structural defect and we demonstrate that a band gap can be tuned as wide as 3.9 eV by varying hydrogen coverage. We also show a hydrogenated graphene field-effect transistor, showing that on/off ratio changes over three orders of magnitude at room temperature.
A multi-marker association method for genome-wide association studies without the need for population structure correction
Authors: Klasen Jonas R. , Barbez Elke , Meier Lukas , Meinshausen Nicolai , Bühlmann Peter , Koornneef Maarten , Busch Wolfgang , Schneeberger Korbinian
Published: November 2016

All common genome-wide association (GWA) methods rely on population structure correction, to avoid false genotype-to-phenotype associations. However, population structure correction is a stringent penalization, which also impedes identification of real associations. Using recent statistical advances, we developed a new GWA method, called Quantitative Trait Cluster Association Test (QTCAT), enabling simultaneous multi-marker associations while considering correlations between markers. With this, QTCAT overcomes the need for population structure correction and also reflects the polygenic nature of complex traits better than single-marker methods. Using simulated data, we show that QTCAT clearly outperforms linear mixed model approaches. Moreover, using QTCAT to reanalyse public human, mouse and Arabidopsis GWA data revealed nearly all known and some previously undetected associations. Following up on the most significant novel association in the Arabidopsis data allowed us to identify a so far unknown component of root growth.
Direct observation of confined acoustic phonon polarization branches in free-standing semiconductor nanowires
Authors: Kargar Fariborz , Debnath Bishwajit , Kakko Joona-Pekko , Säynätjoki Antti , Lipsanen Harri , Nika Denis L. , Lake Roger K. , Balandin Alexander A.
Published: November 2016

Similar to electron waves, the phonon states in semiconductors can undergo changes induced by external boundaries. However, despite strong scientific and practical importance, conclusive experimental evidence of confined acoustic phonon polarization branches in individual free-standing nanostructures is lacking. Here we report results of Brillouin—Mandelstam light scattering spectroscopy, which reveal multiple (up to ten) confined acoustic phonon polarization branches in GaAs nanowires with a diameter as large as 128 nm, at a length scale that exceeds the grey phonon mean-free path in this material by almost an order-of-magnitude. The dispersion modification and energy scaling with diameter in individual nanowires are in excellent agreement with theory. The phonon confinement effects result in a decrease in the phonon group velocity along the nanowire axis and changes in the phonon density of states. The obtained results can lead to more efficient nanoscale control of acoustic phonons, with benefits for nanoelectronic, thermoelectric and spintronic devices.
Product lambda-doublet ratios as an imprint of chemical reaction mechanism
Authors: Jambrina P. G. , Zanchet A. , Aldegunde J. , Brouard M. , Aoiz F. J.
Published: November 2016

In the last decade, the development of theoretical methods has allowed chemists to reproduce and explain almost all of the experimental data associated with elementary atom plus diatom collisions. However, there are still a few examples where theory cannot account yet for experimental results. This is the case for the preferential population of one of the Λ-doublet states produced by chemical reactions. In particular, recent measurements of the OD(2Π) product of the O(3P)+D2 reaction have shown a clear preference for the Π(A′) Λ-doublet states, in apparent contradiction with ab initio calculations, which predict a larger reactivity on the A′′ potential energy surface. Here we present a method to calculate the Λ-doublet ratio when concurrent potential energy surfaces participate in the reaction. It accounts for the experimental Λ-doublet populations via explicit consideration of the stereodynamics of the process. Furthermore, our results demonstrate that the propensity of the Π(A′) state is a consequence of the different mechanisms of the reaction on the two concurrent potential energy surfaces
In vivo protection against ZIKV infection and pathogenesis through passive antibody transfer and active immunisation with a prMEnv DNA vaccine
Authors: Muthumani Karuppiah , Griffin Bryan D , Agarwal Sangya , Kudchodkar Sagar B , Reuschel Emma L , Choi Hyeree , Kraynyak Kimberly A , Duperret Elizabeth K , Keaton Amelia Anne , Chung Christopher , Kim Yinho K , Booth Stephanie A , Racine Trina , Yan Jian , Morrow Matthew P , Jiang Jingjing , Lee Brian , Ramos Stephanie , Broderick Kate E , Reed Charles C , Khan Amir S , Humeau Laurent , Ugen Kenneth E , Park Young K , Maslow Joel N , Sardesai Niranjan Y , Joseph Kim J , Kobinger Gary P , Weiner David B
Published: November 2016

Significant concerns have been raised owing to the rapid global spread of infection and disease caused by the mosquito-borne Zika virus (ZIKV). Recent studies suggest that ZIKV can also be transmitted sexually, further increasing the exposure risk for this virus. Associated with this spread is a dramatic increase in cases of microcephaly and additional congenital abnormalities in infants of ZIKV-infected mothers, as well as a rise in the occurrence of Guillain Barre’ syndrome in infected adults. Importantly, there are no licensed therapies or vaccines against ZIKV infection. In this study, we generate and evaluate the in vivo efficacy of a novel, synthetic, DNA vaccine targeting the pre-membrane+envelope proteins (prME) of ZIKV. Following initial in vitro development and evaluation studies of the plasmid construct, mice and non-human primates were immunised with this prME DNA-based immunogen through electroporation-mediated enhanced DNA delivery. Vaccinated animals were found to generate antigen-specific cellular and humoral immunity and neutralisation activity. In mice lacking receptors for interferon (IFN)-α/β (designated IFNAR−/−) immunisation with this DNA vaccine induced, following in vivo viral challenge, 100% protection against infection-associated weight loss or death in addition to preventing viral pathology in brain tissue. In addition, passive transfer of non-human primate anti-ZIKV immune serum protected IFNAR−/− mice against subsequent viral challenge. This study in NHP and in a pathogenic mouse model supports the importance of immune responses targeting prME in ZIKV infection and suggests that additional research on this vaccine approach may have relevance for ZIKV control and disease prevention in humans.
Correction: Corrigendum: A novel transcription factor-like gene SbSDR1 acts as a molecular switch and confers salt and osmotic endurance to transgenic tobacco
Authors: Singh Vijay Kumar , Mishra Avinash , Haque Intesaful , Jha Bhavanath
Published: November 2016

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 31686; published online: 23 August 2016; updated: 10 November 2016.
Parallel evolution of passive and active defence in land snails
Authors: Morii Yuta , Prozorova Larisa , Chiba Satoshi
Published: November 2016

Predator-prey interactions are major processes promoting phenotypic evolution. However, it remains unclear how predation causes morphological and behavioural diversity in prey species and how it might lead to speciation. Here, we show that substantial divergence in the phenotypic traits of prey species has occurred among closely related land snails as a result of adaptation to predator attacks. This caused the divergence of defensive strategies into two alternatives: passive defence and active defence. Phenotypic traits of the subarcticKaraftohelixland snail have undergone radiation in northeast Asia, and distinctive morphotypes generally coexist in the same regions. In these land snails, we documented two alternative defence behaviours against predation by malacophagous beetles. Furthermore, the behaviours are potentially associated with differences in shell morphology. In addition, molecular phylogenetic analyses indicated that these alternative strategies against predation arose independently on the islands and on the continent suggesting that anti-predator adaptation is a major cause of phenotypic diversity in these snails. Finally, we suggest the potential speciation ofKaraftohelixsnails as a result of the divergence of defensive strategies into passive and active behaviours and the possibility of species radiation due to anti-predatory adaptations.
Correction: Corrigendum: Survival Motor Neuron (SMN) protein is required for normal mouse liver development
Authors: Szunyogova Eva , Zhou Haiyan , Maxwell Gillian K. , Powis Rachael A. , Muntoni Francesco , Gillingwater Thomas H. , Parson Simon H.
Published: November 2016

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 34635; published online: 04 October 2016; updated: 10 November 2016.
Cytokine cascade and networks among MSM HIV seroconverters: implications for early immunotherapy
Authors: Huang Xiaojie , Liu Xinchao , Meyers Kathrine , Liu Lihong , Su Bin , Wang Pengfei , Li Zhen , Li Lan , Zhang Tong , Li Ning , Chen Hui , Li Haiying , Wu Hao
Published: November 2016

The timing, intensity and duration of the cytokine cascade and reorganized interrelations in cytokine networks are not fully understood during acute HIV-1 infection (AHI). Using sequential plasma samples collected over three years post-infection in a cohort of MSM HIV-1 seroconvertors, we determined the early kinetics of cytokine levels during FiebigI-IV stages using Luminex-based multiplex assays. Cytokines were quantified and relationships between cytokines were assessed by Spearman correlation. Compared with HIV-negative MSM, HIV-infected individuals had significantly increased multiple plasma cytokines, including GM-CSF, IFN-α2, IL-12p70, IP-10 and VEGF, during both acute and chronic stages of infection. Furthermore, rapid disease progressors (RDPs) had earlier and more robust cytokine storms, compared with slow disease progressors (SDPs) (49.6 days vs. 74.9 days, respectively; 6.7-fold vs. 3.7-fold change of cytokines, respectively), suggesting the faster and stronger cytokine storm during AHI could promote disease progression. On the other hand, HIV-1 infection induced more interlocked cytokines network, establishing new strong correlations and imposing a higher rigidity. There were, respectively, 146 (44.9%) statistically significant correlations of cytokines in RDPs and 241 (74.2%) in SDPs (p < 0.001). This study suggests that immunomodulatory interventions aimed at controlling cytokine storm in AHI may be beneficial to slow eventual disease progression.
Fucose-containing fraction of Ling-Zhi enhances lipid rafts-dependent ubiquitination of TGFβ receptor degradation and attenuates breast cancer tumorigenesis
Authors: Tsao Shu-Ming , Hsu Hsien-Yeh
Published: November 2016

Ganoderma lucidum exerts antitumor activity, but the mechanism of G. lucidum polysaccharides on cancer is unclear. Here, we demonstrated that a fucose-containing fraction of Ling-Zhi (FFLZ) reduced tumor size and suppressed metastasis in vivo. Furthermore, FFLZ inhibited breast cancer cell migration and altered the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) phenotype. Transforming growth factor-β receptor (TGFR) pathways act as key mediators to promote tumor progression and metastasis. We found that FFLZ down-regulated TGFR and downstream signaling pathways, including the phosphorylation of Smad2/3 and the expression of Smad4. In an investigation of the underlying mechanisms, we found that FFLZ enhanced the Smurf2-dependent ubiquitination of TGFR by disrupting the balance of the lipid rafts, promoted the “re-localization” of the TGFR to the caveolae, and facilitated the degradation of TGFR. Together, our data indicated that FFLZ is associated with the inhibition of EMT and the prevention of metastasis by promoting ubiquitination-dependent TGFR degradation and abolishing TGFR signaling pathways. Moreover, the combination of FFLZ and trastuzumab synergistically inhibited the viability of certain trastuzumab-resistant human breast cancer cells. In summary, our current findings indicate that FFLZ is a potential therapeutic or dietary supplemental agent for cancer patients and that it functions via the caveolin-1/Smad7/Smurf2-dependent ubiquitin-mediated degradation of TGFR.
Activation of AMPKα mediates additive effects of solamargine and metformin on suppressing MUC1 expression in castration-resistant prostate cancer cells
Authors: Xiang SongTao , Zhang QiuHong , Tang Qing , Zheng Fang , Wu JingJing , Yang LiJun , Hann Swei Sunny
Published: November 2016

Prostate cancer is the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The mucin 1 (MUC1) oncoprotein is highly expressed in human prostate cancers with aggressive features. However, the role for MUC1 in occurrence and progression of castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) remained elusive. In this study, we showed that solamargine, a major steroidal alkaloid glycoside, inhibited the growth of CRPC cells, which was enhanced in the presence of metformin. Furthermore, we found that solamargine increased phosphorylation of AMPKα, whereas reducing the protein expression and promoter activity of MUC1. A greater effect was observed in the presence of metformin. In addition, solamargine reduced NF-κB subunit p65 protein expression. Exogenously expressed p65 resisted solamargine-reduced MUC1 protein and promoter activity. Interestingly, exogenously expressed MUC1 attenuated solamargine-stimulated phosphorylation of AMPKα and, more importantly reversed solamargine-inhibited cell growth. Finally, solamargine increased phosphorylation of AMPKα, while inhibiting MUC1, p65 and tumor growth were observed in vivo. Overall, our results show that solamargine inhibits the growth of CRPC cells through AMPKα-mediated inhibition of p65, followed by reduction of MUC1 expression in vitro and in vivo. More importantly, metformin facilitates the antitumor effect of solamargine on CRPC cells.
Small Regulatory RNAs of Rickettsia conorii
Authors: Narra Hema P. , Schroeder Casey L. C. , Sahni Abha , Rojas Mark , Khanipov Kamil , Fofanov Yuriy , Sahni Sanjeev K.
Published: November 2016

Small regulatory RNAs comprise critically important modulators of gene expression in bacteria, yet very little is known about their prevalence and functions in Rickettsia species. R. conorii, the causative agent of Mediterranean spotted fever, is a tick-borne pathogen that primarily infects microvascular endothelium in humans. We have determined the transcriptional landscape of R. conorii during infection of Human Microvascular Endothelial Cells (HMECs) by strand-specific RNA sequencing to identify 4 riboswitches, 13 trans-acting (intergenic), and 22 cis-acting (antisense) small RNAs (termed ‘Rc_sR’s). Independent expression of four novel trans-acting sRNAs (Rc_sR31, Rc_sR33, Rc_sR35, and Rc_sR42) and known bacterial sRNAs (6S, RNaseP_bact_a, ffs, and α-tmRNA) was next confirmed by Northern hybridization. Comparative analysis during infection of HMECs vis-à-vis tick AAE2 cells revealed significantly higher expression of Rc_sR35 and Rc_sR42 in HMECs, whereas Rc_sR31 and Rc_sR33 were expressed at similar levels in both cell types. We further predicted a total of 502 genes involved in all important biological processes as potential targets of Rc_sRs and validated the interaction of Rc_sR42 with cydA (cytochrome d ubiquinol oxidase subunit I). Our findings constitute the first evidence of the existence of post-transcriptional riboregulatory mechanisms in R. conorii and interactions between a novel Rc_sR and its target mRNA.
High glucose upregulates BACE1-mediated Aβ production through ROS-dependent HIF-1α and LXRα/ABCA1-regulated lipid raft reorganization in SK-N-MC cells
Authors: Lee Hyun Jik , Ryu Jung Min , Jung Young Hyun , Lee Sei-Jung , Kim Jeong Yeon , Lee Sang Hun , Hwang In Koo , Seong Je Kyung , Han Ho Jae
Published: November 2016

There is an accumulation of evidence indicating that the risk of Alzheimer’s disease is associated with diabetes mellitus, an indicator of high glucose concentrations in blood plasma. This study investigated the effect of high glucose on BACE1 expression and amyloidogenesis in vivo, and we present details of the mechanism associated with those effects. Our results, using ZLC and ZDF rat models, showed that ZDF rats have high levels of amyloid-beta (Aβ), phosphorylated tau, BACE1, and APP-C99. In vitro result with mouse hippocampal neuron and SK-N-MC, high glucose stimulated Aβ secretion and apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, high glucose increased BACE1 and APP-C99 expressions, which were reversed by a reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenger. Indeed, high glucose increased intracellular ROS levels and HIF-1α expression, associated with regulation of BACE1 and Liver X Receptor α (LXRα). In addition, high glucose induced ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) down-regulation, was associated with LXR-induced lipid raft reorganization and BACE1 localization on the lipid raft. Furthermore, silencing of BACE1 expression was shown to regulate Aβ secretion and apoptosis of SK-N-MC. In conclusion, high glucose upregulates BACE1 expression and activity through HIF-1α and LXRα/ABCA1-regulated lipid raft reorganization, leading to Aβ production and apoptosis of SK-N-MC.
Additive manufacturing of micrometric crystallization vessels and single crystals
Authors: Halevi Oded , Jiang Hui , Kloc Christian , Magdassi Shlomo
Published: November 2016

We present an all-additive manufacturing method that is performed at mild conditions, for the formation of organic single crystals at specific locations, without any photolithography prefabrication process. The method is composed of two steps; inkjet printing of a confinement frame, composed of a water soluble electrolyte. Then, an organic semiconductor solution is printed within the confinement to form a nucleus at a specific location, followed by additional printing, which led to the growth of a single crystal. The specific geometry of the confinement enables control of the specific locations of the single crystals, while separating the nucleation and crystal growth processes. By this method, we printed single crystals of perylene, which are suitable for the formation of OFETs. Moreover, since this method is based on a simple and controllable wet deposition process, it enables formation of arrays of single crystals at specific locations, which is a prerequisite for mass production of active organic elements on flexible substrates.
Enhanced critical-current in P-doped BaFe2As2 thin films on metal substrates arising from poorly aligned grain boundaries
Authors: Sato Hikaru , Hiramatsu Hidenori , Kamiya Toshio , Hosono Hideo
Published: November 2016

Thin films of the iron-based superconductor BaFe2(As1−xPx)2 (Ba122:P) were fabricated on polycrystalline metal-tape substrates with two kinds of in-plane grain boundary alignments (well aligned (4°) and poorly aligned (8°)) by pulsed laser deposition. The poorly aligned substrate is not applicable to cuprate-coated conductors because the in-plane alignment >4° results in exponential decay of the critical current density (Jc). The Ba122:P film exhibited higher Jc at 4 K when grown on the poorly aligned substrate than on the well-aligned substrate even though the crystallinity was poorer. It was revealed that the misorientation angles of the poorly aligned samples were less than 6°, which are less than the critical angle of an iron-based superconductor, cobalt-doped BaFe2As2 (~9°), and the observed strong pinning in the Ba122:P is attributed to the high-density grain boundaries with the misorientation angles smaller than the critical angle. This result reveals a distinct advantage over cuprate-coated conductors because well-aligned metal-tape substrates are not necessary for practical applications of the iron-based superconductors.
Binary colloidal crystals (BCCs) as a feeder-free system to generate human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs)
Authors: Wang Peng-Yuan , Hung Sandy Shen-Chi , Thissen Helmut , Kingshott Peter , Wong Raymond Ching-Bong
Published: November 2016

Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) are capable of differentiating into any cell type and provide significant advances to cell therapy and regenerative medicine. However, the current protocol for hiPSC generation is relatively inefficient and often results in many partially reprogrammed colonies, which increases the cost and reduces the applicability of hiPSCs. Biophysical stimulation, in particular from tuning cell-surface interactions, can trigger specific cellular responses that could in turn promote the reprogramming process. In this study, human fibroblasts were reprogrammed into hiPSCs using a feeder-free system and episomal vectors using novel substrates based on binary colloidal crystals (BCCs). BCCs are made from two different spherical particle materials (Si and PMMA) ranging in size from nanometers to micrometers that self-assemble into hexagonal close-packed arrays. Our results show that the BCCs, particularly those made from a crystal of 2 μm Si and 0.11 μm PMMA particles (2SiPM) facilitate the reprogramming process and increase the proportion of fully reprogrammed hiPSC colonies, even without a vitronectin coating. Subsequent isolation of clonal hiPSC lines demonstrates that they express pluripotent markers (OCT4 and TRA-1-60). This proof-of-concept study demonstrates that cell reprogramming can be improved on substrates where surface properties are tailored to the application.
IGF-1/IGF-1R/hsa-let-7c axis regulates the committed differentiation of stem cells from apical papilla
Authors: Ma Shu , Liu Genxia , Jin Lin , Pang Xiyao , Wang Yanqiu , Wang Zilu , Yu Yan , Yu Jinhua
Published: November 2016

Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and its receptor IGF-1R play a paramount role in tooth/bone formation whilehsa-let-7cactively participates in the osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells. However, the interaction between IGF-1/IGF-1R andhsa-let-7con the committed differentiation of stem cells from apical papilla (SCAPs) remains unclear. In this study, human SCAPs were isolated and treated with IGF-1 andhsa-let-7cover/low-expression viruses. The odonto/osteogenic differentiation of these stem cells and the involvement of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway were subsequently investigated. Alizarin red staining showed thathsa-let-7clow-expression can significantly promote the mineralization of IGF-1 treated SCAPs, whilehsa-let-7cover-expression can decrease the calcium deposition of IGF-1 treated SCAPs. Western blot assay and real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction further demonstrated that the expression of odonto/osteogenic markers (ALP, RUNX2/RUNX2, OSX/OSX, OCN/OCN, COL-I/COL-I, DSPP/DSP, and DMP-1/DMP-1) in IGF-1 treated SCAPs were significantly upregulated inLet-7c-low group. On the contrary,hsa-let-7cover-expression could downregulate the expression of these odonto/osteogenic markers. Moreover, western blot assay showed that the JNK and p38 MAPK signaling pathways were activated inLet-7c-low SCAPs but inhibited inLet-7c-over SCAPs. Together, the IGF-1/IGF-1R/hsa-let-7caxis can control the odonto/osteogenic differentiation of IGF-1-treated SCAPs via the regulation of JNK and p38 MAPK signaling pathways.
Women Who Sleep More Have Reduced Risk of Peptic Ulcer Disease; Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2008–2009)
Authors: Ko Sun-Hye , Baeg Myong Ki , Ko Seung Yeon , Han Kyung-Do
Published: November 2016

Sleep is integral to life and sleep duration is important in sleep quality, physical, and psychological health. Disturbances in sleep duration have been associated with increased risk of metabolic disorders, hypertension, and overall mortality. Sleep disturbance has also been linked with various gastrointestinal disorders. However, the association between sleep and peptic ulcer disease (PUD) has not been evaluated. We investigated the association between sleep duration and PUD. Subjects were included from the fifth Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted from 2008–2009. Individuals with PUD were defined as those with a physician diagnosis of PUD. Daily sleep duration was established by asking participants the amount of time that they slept per day. Multiple logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association of PUD and sleep duration. This study included 14,290 participants (8,209 women). The prevalence of PUD was 5.7% and was higher in men (6.8%) than in women (4.9%). Women who slept ≥9 hours were significantly less likely to have PUD compared to women who slept 7 hours. In men, longer sleep duration (≥9 hours) had a tendency toward PUD prevention. Our results suggest that longer sleep duration may play a protective role for PUD development.
Three-dimensional broadband acoustic illusion cloak for sound-hard boundaries of curved geometry
Authors: Kan Weiwei , Liang Bin , Li Ruiqi , Jiang Xue , Zou Xin-ye , Yin Lei-lei , Cheng Jianchun
Published: November 2016

Acoustic illusion cloaks that create illusion effects by changing the scattered wave have many potential applications in a variety of scenarios. However, the experimental realization of generating three-dimensional (3D) acoustic illusions under detection of broadband signals still remains challenging despite the paramount importance for practical applications. Here we report the design and experimental demonstration of a 3D broadband cloak that can effectively manipulate the scattered field to generate the desired illusion effect near curved boundaries. The designed cloak simply comprises positive-index anisotropic materials, with parameters completely independent of either the cloaked object or the boundary. With the ability of manipulating the scattered field in 3D space and flexibility of applying to arbitrary geometries, our method may take a major step toward the real world application of acoustic cloaks and offer the possibilities of building advanced acoustic devices with versatile functionalities.
Impacts of brown carbon from biomass burning on surface UV and ozone photochemistry in the Amazon Basin
Authors: Mok Jungbin , Krotkov Nickolay A. , Arola Antti , Torres Omar , Jethva Hiren , Andrade Marcos , Labow Gordon , Eck Thomas F. , Li Zhanqing , Dickerson Russell R. , Stenchikov Georgiy L. , Osipov Sergey , Ren Xinrong
Published: November 2016

The spectral dependence of light absorption by atmospheric particulate matter has major implications for air quality and climate forcing, but remains uncertain especially in tropical areas with extensive biomass burning. In the September-October 2007 biomass-burning season in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, we studied light absorbing (chromophoric) organic or “brown” carbon (BrC) with surface and space-based remote sensing. We found that BrC has negligible absorption at visible wavelengths, but significant absorption and strong spectral dependence at UV wavelengths. Using the ground-based inversion of column effective imaginary refractive index in the range 305–368 nm, we quantified a strong spectral dependence of absorption by BrC in the UV and diminished ultraviolet B (UV-B) radiation reaching the surface. Reduced UV-B means less erythema, plant damage, and slower photolysis rates. We use a photochemical box model to show that relative to black carbon (BC) alone, the combined optical properties of BrC and BC slow the net rate of production of ozone by up to 18% and lead to reduced concentrations of radicals OH, HO2, and RO2 by up to 17%, 15%, and 14%, respectively. The optical properties of BrC aerosol change in subtle ways the generally adverse effects of smoke from biomass burning.
A New Unusual Ice-induced Sedimentary Structure: the Silt Mushroom
Authors: Jianhua Zhong , Liangtian Ni , Ningliang Sun , Chuang Liu , Bing Hao , Mengchun Cao , xin Chen , Ke Luo , Shengxin Liu , Leitong Huang , Guanqun Yang , Shaojie Wang , Feifei Su , Xuejing He , Yanqiu Xue
Published: November 2016

Upon channel bars or point bars within the lows of the Yellow River, a new sedimentary structure, named ‘silt mushroom’, has been observed. The process of their formation is interpreted to be via the ice process. The name, the silt mushroom comes from their figurative form. This is because they look somewhat similar to mushroom’s in size and shape; being in the range of 1 to 10 cm in diameter, with the medium 3–5 cm, and on average 10 cm in height, occuring generally in groups, and occasionally in isolation in relatively soft silt. They develop in the transition from winter to spring, and are convincingly related to ice processes. Ice-induced silt mushrooms are best examined in association with the many other newly discovered ice-induced sedimentary structures (over 20 kinds). Clearly, up to now, ice processes have been significantly underestimated. With the substantial discovery of the ice-induced silt mushroom, it opens up new questions. This is because its structure mirrors the same sedimentary structures found in rocks, questioning their genesis, and sedimentary environment analysis. This achievement is significant not only in sedimentology, but also in palaeogeography, palaeoclimate, geological engineering, hydraulics and fluviology.
Graphlet characteristics in directed networks
Authors: Trpevski Igor , Dimitrova Tamara , Boshkovski Tommy , Stikov Nikola , Kocarev Ljupcho
Published: November 2016

Graphlet analysis is part of network theory that does not depend on the choice of the network null model and can provide comprehensive description of the local network structure. Here, we propose a novel method for graphlet-based analysis of directed networks by computing first the signature vector for every vertex in the network and then the graphlet correlation matrix of the network. This analysis has been applied to brain effective connectivity networks by considering both direction and sign (inhibitory or excitatory) of the underlying directed (effective) connectivity. In particular, the signature vectors for brain regions and the graphlet correlation matrices of the brain effective network are computed for 40 healthy subjects and common dependencies are revealed. We found that the signature vectors (node, wedge, and triangle degrees) are dominant for the excitatory effective brain networks. Moreover, by considering only those correlations (or anti correlations) in the correlation matrix that are significant (>0.7 or <−0.7) and are presented in more than 60% of the subjects, we found that excitatory effective brain networks show stronger causal (measured with Granger causality) patterns (G-causes and G-effects) than inhibitory effective brain networks.
Noscapine targets EGFRp-Tyr1068 to suppress the proliferation and invasion of MG63 cells
Authors: He Ming , Jiang Linlin , Ren Zhaozhou , Wang Guangbin , Wang Jiashi
Published: November 2016

Osteosarcoma, the most common primary malignant bone tumor, usually arises in the metaphysis of long bones. Amplification and mutation of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene represent signature genetic abnormalities encountered in osteosarcoma. Noscapine is a benzylisoquinoline alkaloid derived from the opium poppy Papaver somniferum. Recently several studies have suggested its anti-cancer effect in melanoma, ovarian cancer, gliomas, breast cancer, lung cancer, and colon cancer. However, the underlying molecular mechanism for its anti-cancer effect still remains unclear. In this paper, we found the mechanism of noscapine effectively suppressed proliferation and invasion of MG63 cell line by inhibiting the phosphorylation of EGFR and its downstream pathway.
Electrokinetic Transport and Fluidic Manipulation in Three Dimensional Integrated Nanofluidic Networks
Authors: King T. L. , Jin X. , Nandigana V. R. , Aluru N. , Bohn P. W.
Published: November 2016

Nanometre-scale fluidic structures (pores, channels) offer the possibility of accessing flow regimes and fluidic phenomena not possible in larger structures. In particular, control of the surface charge density and zeta potential enable permselective behaviour, when the product of inverse Debye length, κ and channel dimension, a, give κa ≤ 1, and the resulting structures can support electrokinetic flow over a wide range of control parameters. Combining this control paradigm with multi-level structures yields integrated structures in which the nanochannel/nanopore functions as an active element, thereby producing digital fluidic structures. In addition, the special properties of nanofluidic structures can be combined with chemical reactivity in interesting ways. For example, the space charge region at the nanofluidic–microfluidic interface can be exploited to pre-concentrate reactants for enhanced measurements and chemical processing. Furthermore, nanofluidic elements exhibit low Péclet number flow, making it possible to use diffusive transport to efficiently couple reactants in a nanofluidic channel to reactive sites on the walls.
Nanofluidic Strategies for Cancer Research
Authors: Wang Miao , Huang Po-Jung , Kameoka Jun , Chou Chao-Kai , Tsou Pei-Hsiang , Yamaguchi Hirohito , Hung Mien-Chie
Published: November 2016

Nanofluidic system can be used as powerful tool for detecting single molecules through fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS). Several types of nanofluidic channels, such as hollow nanofibres or nanotrenches, can be constructed on quartz wafers, though electrospinning and nanolithography, respectively. The advantages of nanofluidic channels in molecule detection are not only in reducing the amount of volume of analyte, but also for improving electrokinetic molecule transport. Therefore, small molecules, like proteins or DNA, can be detected in nanochannels. Furthermore, nanofluidic channels can be used to monitor protein–protein, post translational modification, protein–DNA, and protein–RNA interactions, which rely on labelling proteins of interest within fluorescent molecules, in tissue samples directly. Based on these results, nanofluidic channels can be used in diagnostic application for early diagnosis of cancers and drug screenings.
Silicon Nitride Thin Films for Nanofluidic Device Fabrication
Authors: Dwyer J. R. , Bandara Y. M. N. D. Y. , Whelan J. C. , Karawdeniya B. I. , Nichols J. W.
Published: November 2016

Silicon nitride is a ubiquitous and well-established nanofabrication material with a host of favourable properties for creating nanofluidic devices with a range of compelling designs that offer extraordinary discovery potential. Nanochannels formed between two thin silicon nitride windows can open up vistas for exploration by freeing transmission electron microscopy to interrogate static structures and structural dynamics in liquid-based samples. Nanopores present a strikingly different architecture—nanofluidic channels through a silicon nitride membrane—and are one of the most promising tools to emerge in biophysics and bioanalysis, offering outstanding capabilities for single molecule sensing. The constrained environments in such nanofluidic devices make surface chemistry a vital design and performance consideration. Silicon nitride has a rich and complex surface chemistry that, while too often formidable, can be tamed with new, robust surface functionalization approaches. We will explore how a simple structural element—a ∼100 nm-thick silicon nitride window—can be used to fabricate devices to wrest unprecedented insights from the nanoscale world. We will detail the intricacies of native silicon nitride surface chemistry, present surface chemical modification routes that leverage the richness of available surface moieties, and examine the effect of engineered chemical surface functionality on nanofluidic device character and performance.
Low Noise Nanopore Platforms Optimised for the Synchronised Optical and Electrical Detection of Biomolecules
Authors: Pitchford W. H. , Crick C. R. , Kim H.-J. , Ivanov A. P. , Kim H.-M. , Yu J.-S. , Albrecht T. , Kim K.-B. , Edel J. B.
Published: November 2016

Nanopores are valuable tools for single-molecule sensing and biomolecular analysis. This can not only be seen from their prevalence in academic and industrial research, but in the growing capabilities at the cutting edge of the field. Recently the demand for improved structural resolution and accelerated analytical throughput has led to the incorporation of additional detection methods, such as fluorescence spectroscopy. The most frequently used solid-state nanopore platforms consist of a bulk silicon substrate and silicon nitride membrane. Although these platforms have many potential uses, they exhibit high photo-induced ionic current noise when probed with light. Due to the high translocation velocity of molecules, high bandwidth electrical measurements are essential for structural information to be investigated via resistive pulse sensing. Consequently, the applicability of Si substrate based nanopore sensors to synchronized optical and electrical measurements is limited at high-bandwidth and high-laser-power. This chapter describes the development and application of a unique low-noise nanopore platform, composed of a predominately Pyrex substrate and silicon nitride membrane. Proof-of-principle experiments are presented that show a Pyrex substrate greatly reduces ionic current noise arising from both platform capacitance and laser illumination. Furthermore, using confocal microscopy and a partially metallic nanopore as a zero mode waveguide, high signal-to-noise synchronized optical and electrical detection of dsDNA is demonstrated.
Computational design of high efficiency nonplanar tri-s-triazine-based ambipolar host materials for phosphorescent blue emitters
Authors: Nie Zhaomin , Mai Zhirui , Peng Yiming , Chen Kaiping , Zhang Yiyun , Zheng Wenxu
Published: November 2016

A series of nonplanar tri-s-triazine-based molecules were designed, and their optical, electronic, and charge transport properties as ambipolar host materials for blue electrophosphorescence emitters were explored by density functional theory.
Tetronics/cyclodextrin-based hydrogels as catalyst-containing media for the hydroformylation of higher olefins
Authors: Chevry M. , Vanbésien T. , Menuel S. , Monflier E. , Hapiot F.
Published: November 2016

The rhodium-catalyzed hydroformylation of alkenes has been investigated under biphasic conditions using combinations of α-cyclodextrin (α-CD) and poloxamines (Tetronics®).