bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
No evidence for manipulation of Anopheles gambiae, An. coluzzii and An. arabiensis host preference by Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: Nguyen Phuong L. , Vantaux Amélie , Hien Domonbabele FdS , Dabiré Kounbobr R. , Yameogo Bienvenue K. , Gouagna Louis-Clément , Fontenille Didier , Renaud François , Simard Frédéric , Costantini Carlo , Thomas Fréderic , Cohuet Anna , Lefèvre Thierry
Published: August 2017

Whether malaria parasites can manipulate mosquito host choice in ways that enhance parasite transmission toward suitable hosts and/or reduce mosquito attraction to unsuitable hosts (i.e. specific manipulation) is unknown. To address this question, we experimentally infected three species of mosquito vectors with wild isolates of the human malaria parasitePlasmodium falciparum, and examined the effects of immature and mature infections on mosquito behavioural responses to combinations of calf odour, human odour and outdoor air using a dual-port olfactometer. Regardless of parasite developmental stage and mosquito species,P. falciparuminfection did not alter mosquito activation rate or their choice for human odours. The overall expression pattern of host choice of all three mosquito species was consistent with a high degree of anthropophily, with infected and uninfected individuals showing higher attraction toward human odour over calf odour, human odour over outdoor air, and outdoor air over calf odour. Our results suggest that, in this system, the parasite may not be able to manipulate the early long-range behavioural steps involved in the mosquito host-feeding process. Future studies are required to test whether malaria parasites can modify their mosquito host choice at a shorter range to enhance transmission.
Routes to probe Bismuth induced strong-coupling superconductivity in bimetallic BiIn alloys
Authors: Gandhi Ashish Chhaganlal , Wu Sheng Yun
Published: August 2017

We report the observation of strong electron-phonon coupling in intergranular linked BiIn superconductors over an infinite range mediated by low-lying phonons. An enhanced superconducting transition temperature was observed from the magnetization, revealing a main diamagnetic Meissner state below TC(0) = 5.86(1) K and a critical field HC(0) = 1355(15) Oe with an In2Bi phase of the composite sample. The electron-phonon coupling to low lying phonons is found to be the leading mechanism for observed strong-coupling superconductivity in the BiIn system. Our findings suggest that In2Bi is in the strong-coupling region with TC(0) = 5.62(1) K, λep = 1.45, ωln = 45.92 K and α = 2.23. The estimated upper critical field can be well-described by a power law with α value higher than 2, consistent with the strong electron-phonon coupling.
Microtubules Modulate F-actin Dynamics during Neuronal Polarization
Authors: Zhao Bing , Meka Durga Praveen , Scharrenberg Robin , König Theresa , Schwanke Birgit , Kobler Oliver , Windhorst Sabine , Kreutz Michael R. , Mikhaylova Marina , Calderon de Anda Froylan
Published: August 2017

Neuronal polarization is reflected by different dynamics of microtubule and filamentous actin (F-actin). Axonal microtubules are more stable than those in the remaining neurites, while dynamics of F-actin in axonal growth cones clearly exceed those in their dendritic counterparts. However, whether a functional interplay exists between the microtubule network and F-actin dynamics in growing axons and whether this interplay is instrumental for breaking cellular symmetry is currently unknown. Here, we show that an increment on microtubule stability or number of microtubules is associated with increased F-actin dynamics. Moreover, we show that Drebrin E, an F-actin and microtubule plus-end binding protein, mediates this cross talk. Drebrin E segregates preferentially to growth cones with a higher F-actin treadmilling rate, where more microtubule plus-ends are found. Interruption of the interaction of Drebrin E with microtubules decreases F-actin dynamics and arrests neuronal polarization. Collectively the data show that microtubules modulate F-actin dynamics for initial axon extension during neuronal development.
Light-independent phospholipid scramblase activity of bacteriorhodopsin from Halobacterium salinarum
Authors: Verchère Alice , Ou Wei-Lin , Ploier Birgit , Morizumi Takefumi , Goren Michael A. , Bütikofer Peter , Ernst Oliver P. , Khelashvili George , Menon Anant K.
Published: August 2017

The retinylidene protein bacteriorhodopsin (BR) is a heptahelical light-dependent proton pump found in the purple membrane of the archaeon Halobacterium salinarum. We now show that when reconstituted into large unilamellar vesicles, purified BR trimers exhibit light-independent lipid scramblase activity, thereby facilitating transbilayer exchange of phospholipids between the leaflets of the vesicle membrane at a rate >10,000 per trimer per second. This activity is comparable to that of recently described scramblases including bovine rhodopsin and fungal TMEM16 proteins. Specificity tests reveal that BR scrambles fluorescent analogues of common phospholipids but does not transport a glycosylated diphosphate isoprenoid lipid. In silico analyses suggest that membrane-exposed polar residues in transmembrane helices 1 and 2 of BR may provide the molecular basis for lipid translocation by coordinating the polar head-groups of transiting phospholipids. Consistent with this possibility, extensive coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations of a BR trimer in an explicit phospholipid membrane revealed water penetration along transmembrane helix 1 with the cooperation of a polar residue (Y147 in transmembrane helix 5) in the adjacent protomer. These results suggest that the lipid translocation pathway may lie at or near the interface of the protomers of a BR trimer.
3D Printing of Polymer-Bonded Rare-Earth Magnets With a Variable Magnetic Compound Fraction for a Predefined Stray Field
Authors: Huber Christian , Abert Claas , Bruckner Florian , Groenefeld Martin , Schuschnigg Stephan , Teliban Iulian , Vogler Christoph , Wautischer Gregor , Windl Roman , Suess Dieter
Published: August 2017

Additive manufacturing of polymer-bonded magnets is a recently developed technique, for single-unit production, and for structures that have been impossible to manufacture previously. Also, new possibilities to create a specific stray field around the magnet are triggered. The current work presents a method to 3D print polymer-bonded magnets with a variable magnetic compound fraction distribution. This means the saturation magnetization can be adjusted during the printing process to obtain a required external field of the manufactured magnets. A low-cost, end-user 3D printer with a mixing extruder is used to mix permanent magnetic filaments with pure polyamide (PA12) filaments. The magnetic filaments are compounded, extruded, and characterized for the printing process. To deduce the quality of the manufactured magnets with a variable magnetic compound fraction, an inverse stray field framework is developed. The effectiveness of the printing process and the simulation method is shown. It can also be used to manufacture magnets that produce a predefined stray field in a given region. This opens new possibilities for magnetic sensor applications. This setup and simulation framework allows the design and manufacturing of polymer-bonded permanent magnets, which are impossible to create with conventional methods.
Synthetic analogs of an Entamoeba histolytica glycolipid designed to combat intracellular Leishmania infection
Authors: Choy Siew Ling , Bernin Hannah , Aiba Toshihiko , Bifeld Eugenia , Lender Sarah Corinna , Mühlenpfordt Melina , Noll Jill , Eick Julia , Marggraff Claudia , Niss Hanno , Roldán Nestor González , Tanaka Shinji , Kitamura Masato , Fukase Koichi , Clos Joachim , Tannich Egbert , Fujimoto Yukari , Lotter Hannelore
Published: August 2017

Intracellular pathogens belonging to the genus Leishmania have developed effective strategies that enable them to survive within host immune cells. Immunostimulatory compounds that counteract such immunological escape mechanisms represent promising treatment options for diseases. Here, we demonstrate that a lipopeptidephosphoglycan (LPPG) isolated from the membrane of a protozoan parasite, Entamoeba histolytica (Eh), shows considerable immunostimulatory effects targeted against Leishmania (L.) major, a representative species responsible for cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL). Treatment led to a marked reduction in the number of intracellular Leishmania parasites in vitro, and ameliorated CL in a mouse model. We next designed and synthesized analogs of the phosphatidylinositol anchors harbored by EhLPPG; two of these analogs reproduced the anti-leishmanial activity of the native compound by inducing production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. The use of such compounds, either alone or as a supportive option, might improve the currently unsatisfactory treatment of CL and other diseases caused by pathogen-manipulated immune responses.
Untargeted metabolomic analysis in naturally occurring canine diabetes mellitus identifies similarities to human Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: O’Kell Allison L. , Garrett Timothy J. , Wasserfall Clive , Atkinson Mark A.
Published: August 2017

While predominant as a disease entity, knowledge voids exist regarding the pathogenesis of canine diabetes. To test the hypothesis that diabetic dogs have similar metabolomic perturbations to humans with type 1 diabetes (T1D), we analyzed serum metabolomic profiles of breed- and body weight-matched, diabetic (n = 6) and healthy (n = 6) dogs by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) profiling. We report distinct clustering of diabetic and control groups based on heat map analysis of known and unknown metabolites. Random forest classification identified 5/6 dogs per group correctly with overall out of bag error rate = 16.7%. Diabetic dogs demonstrated significant upregulation of glycolysis/gluconeogenesis intermediates (e.g., glucose/fructose, C6H12O6, keto-hexose, deoxy-hexose, (P < 0.01)), with significant downregulation of tryptophan metabolism metabolites (e.g., picolinic acid, indoxyl sulfate, anthranilate, (P < 0.01)). Multiple amino acids (AA), AA metabolites, and bile acids were also significantly lower in diabetic versus healthy dogs (P < 0.05) with the exception of the branched chain AA valine, which was elevated in diabetic animals (P < 0.05). Metabolomic profiles in diabetic versus healthy dogs shared similarities with those reported in human T1D (e.g., alterations in glycolysis/gluconeogensis metabolites, bile acids, and elevated branched chain AA). Further studies are warranted to evaluate the utility of canine diabetes to provide novel mechanistic insights to the human disorder.
Size effects of lamellar twins on the strength and deformation mechanisms of nanocrystalline hcp cobalt
Authors: Wang Wen , Yuan Fuping , Jiang Ping , Wu Xiaolei
Published: August 2017

Twins play an important role in the deformation of nanocrystalline (NC) metals. The size effects of {$$10\bar{1}2$$
10

1
¯

2
} tensile/{$$10\bar{1}1$$
10

1
¯

1
} compressive lamellar twins on the tensile strength and deformation mechanisms of NC hcp cobalt have been investigated by a series of large-scale molecular dynamics simulations. Unlike the size effects of twins on the strength for polycrystalline fcc metals, the strength of NC hcp cobalt with lamellar tensile/compressive twins monotonically increases with decreasing twin boundary spacing (TBS) and no softening stage is observed, which is due to the consistent deformation mechanisms no matter TBS is large or small. These consistent deformation mechanisms can be categorized into four types of strengthening mechanisms: (i) Partial basal dislocations nucleated from grain boundaries (GBs) or twin boundaries (TBs) intersecting with TBs/GBs; (ii) Phase transformation from hcp to fcc; (iii)  partial edge dislocations nucleated from TBs intersecting with basal partial dislocations; (iv) Growth of the newly formed secondary tensile twins inside the primary compressive/tensile twins. The observed multiple twinning in MD simulations has also been confirmed by TEM after tensile testing in NC cobalt processed by severe plastic deformation.
US-Guided Percutaneous Radiofrequency versus Microwave Ablation for Benign Thyroid Nodules: A Prospective Multicenter Study
Authors: Cheng Zhigang , Che Ying , Yu Songyuan , Wang Shurong , Teng Dengke , Xu Huixiong , Li Jianwei , Sun Desheng , Han Zhiyu , Liang Ping
Published: August 2017

Compared with microwave ablation (MWA), percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and laser ablation (LA) have been recommended as minimally invasive treatments for patients with symptomatic benign thyroid nodules (BTNs) because of the large number of clinical applications. This prospective multicenter study sought to evaluate the clinical outcomes of RFA and MWA for BTNs. In eight participating institutions, the total number of 1252 patients treated by RFA and MWA were 649 ones with 687 BTNs and 603 ones with 664 BTNs, respectively. The clinical outcomes including the nodular maximal diameter reduction ratio (MDRR), the nodular volume reduction ratio (VRR), and the incidence of complications were compared to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the two techniques. The results for the nodular MDRR and VRR in the RFA group were significantly better than those in the MWA group at 6 months and later follow-up, and the major complication rates of 4.78% and 6.63% in RFA and MWA groups showed no statistically significant differences. In conclusion, both RFA and MWA are safe and effective techniques for selected patients with symptomatic BTNs. The achieved MDRR and VRR in the RFA group were greater than those in the MWA group at 6 months and later follow-up.
Early markers of cardiovascular disease are associated with occupational exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons
Authors: Alhamdow Ayman , Lindh Christian , Albin Maria , Gustavsson Per , Tinnerberg Håkan , Broberg Karin
Published: August 2017

Occupational exposure to soot, rich in polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), has been associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, our knowledge about PAH exposure and early markers of CVD remains limited. In this cross-sectional study of 151 chimney sweeps and 152 controls, we investigated occupational exposure to PAH and early markers of CVD. Blood pressure (BP) (chimney sweeps only), urinary PAH metabolites and serum biomarkers were measured (C-reactive protein, homocysteine, gamma-glutamyltransferase, cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and triglycerides). Chimney sweeps had up to 7 times higher concentrations of PAH metabolites in urine than controls (P < 0.001): median concentrations (adjusted for specific gravity) for 1-hydroxypyrene, 2-hydroxyphenanthrene, 3-hydroxybenzo[a]pyrene, and 3-hydroxybenzo[a]anthracene were 0.56 µg/L, 0.78 µg/L, 4.75 ng/L, and 6.28 ng/L, respectively. Compared with controls, chimney sweeps had increased homocysteine, cholesterol, and HDL (β = 3.4 µmol/L, 0.43 mmol/L, and 0.13 mmol/L, respectively, P ≤ 0.003, adjusted for age, BMI, and smoking). In chimney sweeps, PAH metabolites correlated positively with the percentage of soot sweeping (P < 0.001). 2-hydroxyphenanthrene, 3-hydroxybenzo[a]pyrene, and 3-hydroxybenzo[a]anthracene were positively associated with diastolic BP (P < 0.044, adjusted for age, BMI, and smoking). PAH exposure among chimney sweeps resulted in elevated levels of markers for CVD risk. These findings stress the need to reduce occupational exposure to PAH.
Neonatal umbilical cord blood transplantation halts skeletal disease progression in the murine model of MPS-I
Authors: Azario Isabella , Pievani Alice , Del Priore Federica , Antolini Laura , Santi Ludovica , Corsi Alessandro , Cardinale Lucia , Sawamoto Kazuki , Kubaski Francyne , Gentner Bernhard , Bernardo Maria Ester , Valsecchi Maria Grazia , Riminucci Mara , Tomatsu Shunji , Aiuti Alessandro , Biondi Andrea , Serafini Marta
Published: August 2017

Umbilical cord blood (UCB) is a promising source of stem cells to use in early haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) approaches for several genetic diseases that can be diagnosed at birth. Mucopolysaccharidosis type I (MPS-I) is a progressive multi-system disorder caused by deficiency of lysosomal enzyme α-L-iduronidase, and patients treated with allogeneic HSCT at the onset have improved outcome, suggesting to administer such therapy as early as possible. Given that the best characterized MPS-I murine model is an immunocompetent mouse, we here developed a transplantation system based on murine UCB. With the final aim of testing the therapeutic efficacy of UCB in MPS-I mice transplanted at birth, we first defined the features of murine UCB cells and demonstrated that they are capable of multi-lineage haematopoietic repopulation of myeloablated adult mice similarly to bone marrow cells. We then assessed the effectiveness of murine UCB cells transplantation in busulfan-conditioned newborn MPS-I mice. Twenty weeks after treatment, iduronidase activity was increased in visceral organs of MPS-I animals, glycosaminoglycans storage was reduced, and skeletal phenotype was ameliorated. This study explores a potential therapy for MPS-I at a very early stage in life and represents a novel model to test UCB-based transplantation approaches for various diseases.
Cross sectional evaluation of the gut-microbiome metabolome axis in an Italian cohort of IBD patients
Authors: Santoru Maria Laura , Piras Cristina , Murgia Antonio , Palmas Vanessa , Camboni Tania , Liggi Sonia , Ibba Ivan , Lai Maria Antonia , Orrù Sandro , Blois Sylvain , Loizedda Anna Lisa , Griffin Julian Leether , Usai Paolo , Caboni Pierluigi , Atzori Luigi , Manzin Aldo
Published: August 2017

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the gastrointestinal tract of uncertain origin, which includes ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD). The composition of gut microbiota may change in IBD affected individuals, but whether dysbiosis is the cause or the consequence of inflammatory processes in the intestinal tissue is still unclear. Here, the composition of the microbiota and the metabolites in stool of 183 subjects (82 UC, 50 CD, and 51 healthy controls) were determined. The metabolites content and the microbiological profiles were significantly different between IBD and healthy subjects. In the IBD group, Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Verrucomicrobia, and Fusobacteria were significantly increased, whereas Bacteroidetes and Cyanobacteria were decreased. At genus level Escherichia, Faecalibacterium, Streptococcus, Sutterella and Veillonella were increased, whereas Bacteroides, Flavobacterium, and Oscillospira decreased. Various metabolites including biogenic amines, amino acids, lipids, were significantly increased in IBD, while others, such as two B group vitamins, were decreased in IBD compared to healthy subjects. This study underlines the potential role of an inter-omics approach in understanding the metabolic pathways involved in IBD. The combined evaluation of metabolites and fecal microbiome can be useful to discriminate between healthy subjects and patients with IBD.
Ammonia plasma-treated electrospun polyacrylonitryle nanofibrous membrane: the robust substrate for protein immobilization through glutaraldhyde coupling chemistry for biosensor application
Authors: Mahmoudifard Matin , Soleimani Masoud , Vossoughi Manuchehr
Published: August 2017

The surface of polyacrylonitrile electrospun nanofibrous membrane (PAN NFM) was aminated by the ammonia plasma treatment. The content of amine groups has been estimated for different time of plasma treatment. The newly generated amine groups were successfully activated by glutaraldehyde (Ga) for the covalent attachment of the protein molecules on the NFM surface. Bio-functionalization of ammonia plasma treated PAN NFM was carried out by the primary antibodies (Ab) immobilization as a protein model through Ga coupling chemistry. For comparison, the immobilization of Ab was also performed through physical interactions. Attenuated total reflection-fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) was used for the characterization of surface functional groups of PAN NFM after different modifications. The surface morphology of the NFM after immobilization was characterized using scanning electron microscope (SEM). The efficacy of Ab immobilization was estimated by enzyme-linked immuno sorbent assay (ELISA) method. X- Ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) was performed to confirm the covalent immobilization of Ab on the modified PAN NFM. Results show that ammonia plasma treatment effectively increased the amount of Ab immobilization through Ga coupling chemistry. Our findings suggest that this is a versatile model for the preparation of stable bio-functionalized NFM which is applicable in different field of biomedical science.
Engineering of versatile redox partner fusions that support monooxygenase activity of functionally diverse cytochrome P450s
Authors: Bakkes Patrick J. , Riehm Jan L. , Sagadin Tanja , Rühlmann Ansgar , Schubert Peter , Biemann Stefan , Girhard Marco , Hutter Michael C. , Bernhardt Rita , Urlacher Vlada B.
Published: August 2017

Most bacterial cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (P450s or CYPs) require two redox partner proteins for activity. To reduce complexity of the redox chain, the Bacillus subtilis flavodoxin YkuN (Y) was fused to the Escherichia coli flavodoxin reductase Fpr (R), and activity was tuned by placing flexible (GGGGS)n or rigid ([E/L]PPPP)n linkers (n = 1–5) in between. P-linker constructs typically outperformed their G-linker counterparts, with superior performance of YR-P5, which carries linker ([E/L]PPPP)5. Molecular dynamics simulations demonstrated that ([E/L]PPPP)n linkers are intrinsically rigid, whereas (GGGGS)n linkers are highly flexible and biochemical experiments suggest a higher degree of separation between the fusion partners in case of long rigid P-linkers. The catalytic properties of the individual redox partners were best preserved in the YR-P5 construct. In comparison to the separate redox partners, YR-P5 exhibited attenuated rates of NADPH oxidation and heme iron (III) reduction, while coupling efficiency was improved (28% vs. 49% coupling with B. subtilis CYP109B1, and 44% vs. 50% with Thermobifida fusca CYP154E1). In addition, YR-P5 supported monooxygenase activity of the CYP106A2 from Bacillus megaterium and bovine CYP21A2. The versatile YR-P5 may serve as a non-physiological electron transfer system for exploitation of the catalytic potential of other P450s.
Calcium (II) - and dipicolinic acid mediated-biostimulation of oil-bioremediation under multiple stresses by heat, oil and heavy metals
Authors: Radwan Samir S. , Al-Mailem Dina M. , Kansour Mayada K.
Published: August 2017

The oil-producing Arabian Gulf states have hot summer seasons of about 7-month in length. Therefore, environmental oil spills should be bioremediated by the activity of indigenous, hydrocarbonoclastic (hydrocarbon-degrading) microorganisms with optimum growth at about 50 °C. Soils in such arid countries harbor thermophilic bacteria, whose oil-consumption potential is enhanced by calcium (II) - and dipicolinic acid (DPA)-supplement. Those organisms are, however, subjected to additional stresses including toxic effects of heavy metals that may be associated with the spilled oil. Our study highlighted the resistance of indigenous, thermophilic isolates to the heavy metals, mercury (II), cadmium (II), arsenic (II) and lead (II) at 50 °C. We also detected the uptake of heavy metals by 15 isolates at 50 °C, and identified the merA genes coding for Hg2+-resistance in 4 of the studied Hg2+-resistant isolates. Hg2+ was the most toxic metal and the metal toxicity was commonly higher in the presence of oil. The addition of Ca2+ and DPA enhanced the Hg2+-resistance among most of the isolates at 50 °C. Crude oil consumption at 50 °C by 4 selected isolates was inhibited by the tested heavy metals. However, Ca2+ and DPA limited this inhibition and enhanced oil-consumption, which exceeded by far the values in the control cultures.
DNA analysis of traded shark fins and mobulid gill plates reveals a high proportion of species of conservation concern
Authors: Steinke Dirk , Bernard Andrea M. , Horn Rebekah L. , Hilton Paul , Hanner Robert , Shivji Mahmood S.
Published: August 2017

Continuously increasing demand for plant and animal products causes unsustainable depletion of biological resources. It is estimated that one-quarter of sharks and rays are threatened worldwide and although the global fin trade is widely recognized as a major driver, demand for meat, liver oil, and gill plates also represents a significant threat. This study used DNA barcoding and 16 S rRNA sequencing as a method to identify shark and ray species from dried fins and gill plates, obtained in Canada, China, and Sri Lanka. 129 fins and gill plates were analysed and searches on BOLD produced matches to 20 species of sharks and five species of rays or – in two cases – to a species pair. Twelve of the species found are listed or have been approved for listing in 2017 in the appendices of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Fauna and Flora (CITES), including the whale shark (Rhincodon typus), which was surprisingly found among both shark fin and gill plate samples. More than half of identified species fall under the IUCN Red List categories ‘Endangered’ and ‘Vulnerable’, raising further concerns about the impacts of this trade on the sustainability of these low productivity species.
Three-Dimensional Geometric Morphometric Analysis of Fossil Canid Mandibles and Skulls
Authors: Drake Abby Grace , Coquerelle Michael , Kosintsev Pavel A. , Bachura Olga P. , Sablin Mikhail , Gusev Andrei V. , Fleming Lacey S. , Losey Robert J.
Published: August 2017

Much of the fossil record for dogs consists of mandibles. However, can fossil canid mandibles be reliably identified as dogs or wolves? 3D geometric morphometric analysis correctly classifies 99.5% of the modern dog and wolf mandibles. However, only 4 of 26 Ust’-Polui fossil mandibles, a Russian Arctic site occupied from 250BCE to 150CE, were identified as dogs and none of the 20 Ivolgin mandibles, an Iron Age site in southern Russia, were identified as dogs. Three of the Ust’-Polui mandibles and 8 of the Ivolgin mandibles were identified as wolves. In contrast, all 12 Ivolgin skulls and 5 Ust’-Polui skulls were clearly identified as dogs. Only the classification of the UP6571 skull as a dog (Dog Posterior Probability = 1.0) was not supported by the typical probability. Other evidence indicates these canids were domesticated: they were located within human dwellings, remains at both sites have butchery marks indicating that they were consumed, and isotope analysis of canid and human remains from Ust’-Polui demonstrate that both were consuming freshwater protein; indicating that the humans were feeding the canids. Our results demonstrate that the mandible may not evolve as rapidly as the cranium and the mandible is not reliable for identifying early dog fossils.
Tensile properties of millimeter-long multi-walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Kim Hyung-ick , Wang Mei , Lee Stephanie K. , Kang Junmo , Nam Jae-Do , Ci Lijie , Suhr Jonghwan
Published: August 2017

There have been a number of theoretical and experimental studies on tensile properties of carbon nanotubes (CNT), reporting the Young’s modulus of the individual CNT up to 1 TPa. Although CNT shows the promise to be used as reinforcement in a high modulus/strength composite material, it exhibits quite disappointing in terms of modulus or strength. Along with recent advance in CNT growth technique, we will be able to directly measure tensile properties of millimeter-long MWCNTs. This study firstly tackles the direct measurement of the tensile properties of millimeter-long MWCNTs that can be used as reinforcement in a composite system. A carefully designed tensile testing technique for the MWCNTs is developed, which allows us to obtain more accurate and reliable measured values. The average tensile strength and Young’s modulus of the CNTs investigated in this study are measured to be 0.85 GPa and 34.65 GPa, respectively. Also, this work statistically investigates the effect of the CNT dimensions including length, diameter and volume on the tensile properties. To the best of our knowledge, this is the very first report on the tensile properties of macroscopically long and continuous CNTs.
Preoperative prognostic nutritional index is a powerful predictor of prognosis in patients with stage III ovarian cancer
Authors: Zhang Weiwei , Ye Bin , Liang Weijiang , Ren Yazhou
Published: August 2017

Many established inflammation- and nutrition-related factors have been investigated as potential independent prognostic factors in various cancers, including the C-reactive protein/albumin ratio (CAR), lymphocyte/monocyte ratio (LMR), modified Glasgow prognostic score (mGPS), body mass index (BMI), and prognostic nutritional index (PNI). This study was performed to estimate the prognostic value of these factors in predicting survival and platinum resistance in ovarian cancer (OC), especially according to stage. Kaplan-Meier and multivariate analyses were performed to plot the survival curve and determine the independent prognostic factors. Additionally, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was used to predict platinum resistance and prognosis by comparing the predictive ability of PNI and cancer antigen (CA)-125. In all patients, decreased PNI was significantly associated with platinum resistance and poor overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). Regarding tumor stage, decreased PNI was significantly associated with poor PFS and OS only in stage III OC. Furthermore, the PNI also showed a significantly higher AUC value than CA-125 for predicting mortality and platinum resistance in all OC patients, but not in stage III patients. In conclusion, decreased PNI is a powerful predictor of a poor prognosis in OC, and especially for stage III cases.
Pharmacological Inhibition of PTEN Aggravates Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Zhou Jun , Jia Li , Hu Zhaoyong , Wang Yanlin
Published: August 2017

Renal ischemia/reperfusion is a major cause of acute kidney injury. However, the pathogenic mechanisms underlying renal ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) are not fully defined. Here, we investigated the role of PTEN, a dual protein/lipid phosphatase, in the development of ischemic AKI in mice. Pharmacological inhibition of PTEN with bpV(HOpic) exacerbated renal dysfunction and promoted tubular damage in mice with IRI compared with vehicle-treated mice with IRI. PTEN inhibition enhanced tubular cell apoptosis in kidneys with IRI, which was associated with excessive caspase-3 activation. Furthermore, PTEN inhibition expanded the infiltration of neutrophils and macrophages into kidneys with IRI, which was accompanied by increased expression of the proinflammatory molecules. These results have demonstrated that PTEN plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of ischemic acute kidney injury through regulating tubular cell apoptosis and inflammation suggesting PTEN could be a potential therapeutic target for acute kidney injury.
Thermo-mechanically responsive crystalline organic cantilever
Authors: Dharmarwardana Madushani , Welch Raymond P. , Kwon Sunah , Nguyen Victoria K. , McCandless Gregory T. , Omary Mohammad A. , Gassensmith Jeremiah J.
Published: August 2017

Dynamic molecular crystals lift weights up to ∼100× heavier than themselves powered by a thermally induced single-crystal to single-crystal phase transition.
The effect of intramolecular cross links on the mechanochemical fragmentation of polymers in solution
Authors: Levy Avishai , Gaver Elad , Wang Feng , Galant Or , Diesendruck Charles E.
Published: August 2017

Kinetic studies show that intramolecular cross-link stabilization of polymers towards mechanochemistry in solution is more significant at higher degrees of polymerization.
A light-up endoplasmic reticulum probe based on a rational design of red-emissive fluorogens with aggregation-induced emission
Authors: Zhang Chong-Jing , Cai Xiaolei , Xu Shidang , Zhan Ruoyu , Jien Wu , Liu Bin
Published: August 2017

Fine-tuning the interaction between electron donors and acceptors generates a red-emissive AIEgen which was further developed into an ER targeting imaging probe for specific ER imaging with high selectivity.
Merging gold catalysis, organocatalytic oxidation, and Lewis acid catalysis for chemodivergent synthesis of functionalized oxazoles from N-propargylamides
Authors: Mai Shaoyu , Rao Changqing , Chen Ming , Su Jihu , Du Jiangfeng , Song Qiuling
Published: August 2017

Novel catalytic systems consisting of cationic gold complexes, N-hydroxyphthalimide (NHPI), and transition-metal-based Lewis acids have been developed for the one-pot synthesis of functionalized oxazoles.
Importance of the alignment of polar π conjugated molecules inside carbon nanotubes in determining second-order non-linear optical properties
Authors: Yumura Takashi , Yamamoto Wataru
Published: August 2017

Dispersion-corrected DFT calculations found energetically preferred alignments of certain p,p′-dimethylaminonitrostilbene (DANS) molecules inside an carbon nanotube, and their importance in determining second-order non-linear optical properties.
Fourier transform large amplitude alternating current voltammetry investigations of the split wave phenomenon in electrocatalytic mechanisms
Authors: Song Peng , Ma Hongkai , Meng Luwen , Wang Yian , Nguyen Hoang Viet , Lawrence Nathan S. , Fisher Adrian C.
Published: August 2017

The split wave phenomenon is observed in Fourier transform large amplitude alternating current voltammetry under an electrocatalytic mechanism.
Phase diagrams of the LiBH4–NaBH4–KBH4 system
Authors: Dematteis Erika M. , Pinatel Eugenio R. , Corno Marta , Jensen Torben R. , Baricco Marcello
Published: August 2017

The LiBH4–NaBH4–KBH4 system was explored combining experimental and theoretical techniques to establish phase diagrams and thermodynamic properties in all temperature and composition ranges.
Clinical evaluation of the radiolanthanide terbium-152: first-in-human PET/CT with 152Tb-DOTATOC
Authors: Baum Richard P. , Singh Aviral , Benešová Martina , Vermeulen Christiaan , Gnesin Silvano , Köster Ulli , Johnston Karl , Müller Dirk , Senftleben Stefan , Kulkarni Harshad R. , Türler Andreas , Schibli Roger , Prior John O. , van der Meulen Nicholas P. , Müller Cristina
Published: August 2017

The existence of theragnostic pairs of radionuclides allows the preparation of radiopharmaceuticals for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
The influence of functional groups on the ethylene polymerization performance of silsesquioxane-supported Phillips-type catalysts
Authors: Baba Ryuki , Thakur Ashutosh , Chammingkwan Patchanee , Terano Minoru , Taniike Toshiaki
Published: August 2017

A series of silsesquioxane-supported Phillips-type molecular catalysts for ethylene polymerization were synthesized by introducing various functional groups in proximity to monoalkylated Cr(iii).
Water-stable Eu-MOF fluorescent sensors for trivalent metal ions and nitrobenzene
Authors: Li Honghong , Han Yanbing , Shao Zhichao , Li Na , Huang Chao , Hou Hongwei
Published: August 2017

We have synthesized two functionalized Eu-MOFs and found that the MOFs are promising luminescent probes for selectively sensing metal ions (Fe3+and Cr3+) and nitrobenzene.
A crystalline AlPO4-5 intermediate: designed synthesis, structure, and phase transformation
Authors: Lin Cong , Li Jian , Pan Fengjuan , Zhao Yifang , Xu Le , Yang Yanquan , Du Xin , Lin Xiaohuan , Liao Fuhui , Lin Jianhua , Yang Tao , Sun Junliang
Published: August 2017

A crystalline AlPO4-5 intermediate with phase transformability is designedly synthesized, providing new thoughts for the crystallization mechanism studies.
Spiers Memorial Lecture : Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy: from single particle/molecule spectroscopy to ångstrom-scale spatial resolution and femtosecond time resolution
Authors: Henry Anne-Isabelle , Ueltschi Tyler W. , McAnally Michael O. , Van Duyne Richard P.
Published: August 2017

Four decades on, surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) continues to be a vibrant field of research that is growing (approximately) exponentially in scope and applicability while pushing at the ultimate limits of sensitivity, spatial resolution, and time resolution. This introductory paper discusses some aspects related to all four of the themes for this Faraday Discussion. First, the wavelength-scanned SERS excitation spectroscopy (WS-SERES) of single nanosphere oligomers (viz., dimers, trimers, etc.), the distance dependence of SERS, the magnitude of the chemical enhancement mechanism, and the progress toward developing surface-enhanced femtosecond stimulated Raman spectroscopy (SE-FSRS) are discussed. Second, our efforts to develop a continuous, minimally invasive, in vivo glucose sensor based on SERS are highlighted. Third, some aspects of our recent work in single molecule SERS and the translation of that effort to ångstrom-scale spatial resolution in ultrahigh vacuum tip-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (UHV-TERS) and single molecule electrochemistry using electrochemical (EC)-TERS will be presented. Finally, we provide an overview of analytical SERS with our viewpoints on SERS substrates, approaches to address the analyte generality problem (i.e. target molecules that do not spontaneously adsorb and/or have Raman cross sections <10−29 cm2 sr−1), SERS for catalysis, and deep UV-SERS.
N-Doped CDs–GP nanospheres as a drug delivery nanocarrier system with carbon dots and a fluorescent tracer
Authors: Yuan Ping , Zhang Ming , Zhou Ninglin , Chi Cheng , Chu Xiaohong , Sun Baohong , Feng Siying
Published: August 2017

In this study, a carbon dots-genipin covalent conjugate (CDs–GP) was synthesized, characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and fluorescence spectroscopy (FL).
Highly electron deficient tetrabenzoquinone-appended Ni(ii) and Cu(ii) porphyrins: spectral, solvatochromatic, electrochemical redox and tuneable F−and CN−sensing properties
Authors: Rathi Pinki , Chahal Mandeep K. , Sankar Muniappan
Published: August 2017

The electron deficient tetrabenzoquinone-appended porphyrins (1and2) were synthesized and utilized for the selective detection of CN−ions in aqueous media whereas they detect F−and CN−ions in nonaqueous media.
A novel electrochemical sensing platform based on Pt/PPy/Eosin-Y for the determination of cadmium
Authors: Abolghasemi Mir-Mahdi , Ghorbani-Cheghamarani Ashkan , Babakhanian Arash
Published: August 2017

In this research work, a novel sensing platform has been designed for the determination of cadmium (Cd2+) based on the modification of a bare platinum (Pt) electrode with pyrrole (Py) and Eosin-Y (yellowish) using electro-polymerization and electro-deposition procedures.
Ureasil organic–inorganic hybrids as photoactive waveguides for conjugated polyelectrolyte luminescent solar concentrators
Authors: Meazzini Ilaria , Blayo Camille , Arlt Jochen , Marques Ana-Teresa , Scherf Ullrich , Burrows Hugh D. , Evans Rachel C.
Published: August 2017

We test the potential of resonance energy transfer to enhance the performance of conjugated copolyelectrolyte donor–acceptor luminescent solar concentrators immobilised within a photoactive organic–inorganic ureasil waveguide.
Photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy with cationic phthalocyanines against Escherichia coli planktonic and biofilm cultures
Authors: Li Min , Mai Bingjie , Wang Ao , Gao Yiru , Wang Xiaobing , Liu Xin , Song Shanshan , Liu Quanghong , Wei Shaohua , Wang Pan
Published: August 2017

Cationic phthalocyanines (Pcs) combine with photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy (PACT) presents excellent antibacterial activity to Gram-negative bacteriaE. coli.
Investigation of micro- and nanoscale barrier layer capacitance mechanisms of conductivity in CaCu3Ti4O12via scanning probe microscopy technique
Authors: Ivanov M. S. , Amaral F. , Khomchenko V. A. , Paixão J. A. , Costa L. C.
Published: August 2017

In this work we disclose micro- and nanoscale origins of the unusually high dielectric constant characteristic of CaCu3Ti4O12 (CCTO) ceramic by using the Scanning Probe Microscopy (SPM) technique.
Fish gelatin nanofibers prevent drug crystallization and enable ultrafast delivery
Authors: Kwak Hyo Won , Woo Heechang , Kim In-Chul , Lee Ki Hoon
Published: August 2017

Eco-friendly and cost-effective electrospinning of aqueous fish gelatin could prevent the drug crystallization and exhibit the ultra-fast drug release behavior.
Nonlinear oscillatory dynamics of the hardening of calcium phosphate bone cements
Authors: Uskoković Vuk , Rau Julietta V.
Published: August 2017

Nonlinear, oscillatory dynamics was discovered in the evolution of phase composition during the setting of different calcium phosphate cements, two of which evolved toward brushite and one toward hydroxyapatite as the final product.
Hierarchical design of Cu1−xNixS nanosheets for high-performance asymmetric solid-state supercapacitors
Authors: Balamurugan Jayaraman , Li Chao , Thanh Tran Duy , Park Ok-Kyung , Kim Nam Hoon , Lee Joong Hee
Published: August 2017

A novel ultra-thin Cu1−xNixS nanosheet array supercapacitor electrode with high specific surface area, unique porosity and excellent conductivity was successfully developed via a powerful anion exchange technique.
Pressure-induced abnormal insulating state in triangular layered cobaltite LixCoO2 (x = 0.9)
Authors: Xu Cong , Xiao Weiji , Liu Tongchao , Sun Fei , Zheng Jiaxin , Peng Shang , Liu Xuqiang , Pan Feng , Yang Wenge , Mao Ho-kwang
Published: August 2017

Lithium cobaltite oxides (LixCoO2) have been serving as an important rechargeable battery material with reversible extraction and insertion of lithium ions.
A 3D conductive network with high loading Li2S@C for high performance lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Wang Dong-huang , Xie Dong , Xia Xin-hui , Zhang Xu-qing , Tang Wang-jia , Zhong Yu , Wu Jian-bo , Wang Xiu-li , Tu Jiang-ping
Published: August 2017

We have prepared an integrated CF–CB–Li2S@C cathode with high loading Li2S for high areal-capacity Li–S batteries. The federated conductive network and efficient carbon coating not only provide an efficient electron transport and guarantee high active material utilization but also form a durable protective shield for suppressing polysulfide dissolution.
Antibody-conjugated mesoporous silica nanoparticles for brain microvessel endothelial cell targeting
Authors: Bouchoucha Meryem , Béliveau Éric , Kleitz Freddy , Calon Frédéric , Fortin Marc-André
Published: August 2017

Size and bioconjugation effects of Ri7 antibody conjugated mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) influence in vitro and in vivo targeting ability to BMECs.
Methodology for the analysis of dc‐network resonance‐related instabilities in voltage‐source converter‐based multi‐terminal HVDC systems
Authors: Pinares Gustavo , Bongiorno Massimo
Published: August 2017

A method to investigate dc‐network instabilities in multi‐terminal high‐voltage DC (HVDC) systems is presented. The method consists of defining subsystems, called in this Letter Z and Y, which can be interpreted as a dc‐network impedance matrix and as set of converter admittances, respectively. Through the analysis of the Z and Y terms, it is shown that resonances originated from the system's dc network can be amplified if the converters show a negative dc‐side conductance. Moreover, it is also shown that converters located at different terminals can contribute to instability if the resonances to which they are exposed are of the same frequency. The analysis method is applied to a four‐terminal HVDC system as an example and, using the theory developed in this Letter, mitigation measures are applied. The results are verified through time‐domain simulations.
Microwave characterisation of polylactic acid for 3D‐printed dielectrically controlled substrates
Authors: Catarinucci Luca , Colella Riccardo , Coppola Paolo , Tarricone Luciano
Published: August 2017

In this study, the characterisation of three‐dimensional (3D)‐printed substrates in terms of relative dielectric constant and loss tangent by using the T‐resonator method is proposed. In particular, after the theoretical formulation of this method, the T‐shape structure has been realised and its effectiveness in characterising also 3D‐printed substrates in the frequency range between 800 and 5000 MHz has been experimentally demonstrated. Therefore, the T‐resonator has been used to perform the microwave characterisation in terms of both dielectric constant and loss tangent of 3D‐printed polylactic acid substrates when varying the infill percentage. Obtained results have been first summarised and discussed, and then used to realise an example of 3D‐printed ultra‐high‐frequency radio‐frequency identification tag, thus demonstrating the suitability of 3D‐printable materials to be used as dielectrically controlled substrates for low‐cost and high‐performing electromagnetic applications.
A novel use of etched multi‐mode fibre as magnetic field sensor
Authors: Bhardwaj Vanita , Singh Vinod Kumar
Published: August 2017

In this study, an optical fibre magnetic field sensor is experimentally demonstrated using chemical etched multimode fibre sandwiched between two single mode fibres. The obtained result of the magnetic field and refractive index response shows that the decreasing fibre diameter in the sensing region plays an important role to enhance the sensitivity of the device. The magnetic field sensing is based on a tunable refractive index (RI) property of magnetic fluid infiltrated into the capillary tube. The sensing system is verified by testing RI of different concentrations of sodium chloride (NaCl) solution before sealing in capillary tube. Experimental results show that the sensor with taper fibre diameter of 45 µm has relatively high magnetic field sensitivity of ∼0.993 dB/mT ranging from 0 to 6 mT. The proposed devices find potential applications in magnetic field sensing.
Economic viability for residential battery storage systems in grid‐connected PV plants
Authors: Barcellona Simone , Piegari Luigi , Musolino Vincenzo , Ballif Christophe
Published: August 2017

Today's residential battery energy storage systems (BESSs) are off the shelf products used to increase the self‐consumption of residential photovoltaic (PV) plants and to reduce the losses related to energy transfer in distribution grids. This work investigates the economic viability of adding a BESS to a residential grid‐connected PV plant by using a methodology for optimising the size of the BESS. The identification of the optimal size which minimises the total cost of the system is not trivial; indeed, it is a trade‐off between OPEX and CAPEX, which are mainly affected by the battery technology, usage profile, expected lifetime, and efficiency. Here, an analysis of the opportunity to install a storage system together with a grid‐connected residential PV plant is performed. Three typical low‐voltage prosumers (Italy, Switzerland, and the UK) are investigated in order to take into account the different legislative and tariff framework over Europe. Numerical results reported here show that present costs of storages are still too high to allow an economic convenience of the storage installation. Moreover, an indication of the necessary incentives to allow the spreading of these systems is given.