bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel characteristics of the avian gyrovirus 2 genome
Authors: Yao Shuai , Gao Xiang , Tuo Tianbei , Han Chunyan , Gao Yulong , Qi Xiaole , Zhang Yanping , Liu Changjun , Gao Honglei , Wang Yongqiang , Wang Xiaomei
Published: February 2017

Avian gyrovirus 2 (AGV2) was the second member of the viral genus Cyclovirus to be discovered. This virus poses a significant potential threat to humans and poultry due to its global dissemination and infectiousness. We used three overlapping polymerase chain reactions (PCRs) to map the whole genome of AGV2. We then modelled the evolutionary history of these novel sequence data in the context of related sequences from GenBank. We analysed the viral protein characteristics of the different phylogenetic groups and explored differences in evolutionary trends between Chinese strains and strains from other countries. We obtained 17 avian-sourced AGV2 whole genomes from different regions of China from 2015 to 2016. Phylogenetic analyses of these Chinese AGV2 sequences and related sequences produced four distinct groups (A–D) with significant bootstrap values. We also built phylogenies using predicted viral protein sequences. We found a potential hypervariable region in VP1 at sites 288–314, and we identified the amino acid changes responsible for the distinct VP2 and VP3 groups. Three new motifs in the AGV2 5′-UTR direct repeat (DR) region were discovered and grouped. The novel characteristics and diverse research on the AGV2 genome provide a valuable framework for additional research.
Human IDO-competent, long-lived immunoregulatory dendritic cells induced by intracellular pathogen, and their fate in humanized mice
Authors: Tyagi Rajeev K. , Miles Brodie , Parmar Rajesh , Garg Neeraj K. , Dalai Sarat K. , Baban Babak , Cutler Christopher W.
Published: February 2017

Targeting of myeloid-dendritic cell receptor DC-SIGN by numerous chronic infectious agents, including Porphyromonas gingivalis, is shown to drive-differentiation of monocytes into dysfunctional mDCs. These mDCs exhibit alterations of their fine-tuned homeostatic function and contribute to dysregulated immune-responses. Here, we utilize P. gingivalis mutant strains to show that pathogen-differentiated mDCs from primary human-monocytes display anti-apoptotic profile, exhibited by elevated phosphorylated-Foxo1, phosphorylated-Akt1, and decreased Bim-expression. This results in an overall inhibition of DC-apoptosis. Direct stimulation of complex component CD40 on DCs leads to activation of Akt1, suggesting CD40 involvement in anti-apoptotic effects observed. Further, these DCs drove dampened CD8+ T-cell and Th1/Th17 effector-responses while inducing CD25+Foxp3+CD127− Tregs. In vitro Treg induction was mediated by DC expression of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase, and was confirmed in IDO-KO mouse model. Pathogen-infected & CMFDA-labeled MoDCs long-lasting survival was confirmed in a huMoDC reconstituted humanized mice. In conclusion, our data implicate PDDCs as an important target for resolution of chronic infection.
Erratum: Using the virtual reality device Oculus Rift for neuropsychological assessment of visual processing capabilities
Authors: Foerster Rebecca M. , Poth Christian H. , Behler Christian , Botsch Mario , Schneider Werner X.
Published: February 2017

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 37016; published online: 21 November 2016; updated: 15 February 2017 The original version of this Article contained referencing errors, where multiple instances of reference 5 were incorrectly given as reference 1. The publishers regret introducing these errors during final typesetting.
HIV cause-specific deaths, mortality, risk factors, and the combined influence of HAART and late diagnosis in Zhejiang, China, 2006–2013
Authors: Chen Lin , Pan Xiaohong , Ma Qiaoqin , Yang Jiezhe , Xu Yun , Zheng Jinlei , Wang Hui , Zhou Xin , Jiang Tingting , Jiang Jun , He Lin , Jiang Jianmin
Published: February 2017

To examine patterns of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) cause-specific deaths, risk factors, and the effect of interactions on mortality, we conducted a retrospective cohort study in Zhejiang, China, from 2006 to 2013. All data were downloaded from the acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) Prevention and Control Information System. The Cox proportional hazards model was used to assess predictors of cause-specific death. The relative excess risk due to interaction and ratio of hazard ratios (RHR) were calculated for correlations between HAART, late diagnosis, and age. A total of 13,812 HIV/AIDS patients were enrolled with 31,553 person-years (PY) of follow-up. The leading causes of death of HIV patients were accidental death and suicide (21.5%), and the leading cause of death for those with AIDS was AIDS-defining disease (76.4%). Both additive and multiplicative scale correlations were found between receiving HAART and late diagnosis, with RERI of 5.624 (95% CI: 1.766–9.482) and RHR of 2.024 (95% CI: 1.167–2.882). The effects of HAART on AIDS-related mortalities were affected by late diagnosis. Early detection of HIV infection and increased uptake of HAART are important for greater benefits in terms of lives saved.
Bio-functionalized magnetic nanoparticles for the immunoassay of fetal fibronectin: a feasibility study for the prediction of preterm birth
Authors: Wong Chian-Huey , Chen Chie-Pein , Chang Chia-Chen , Chen Chen-Yu
Published: February 2017

Preterm birth is an important cause of perinatal morbidity and mortality. Various biomarkers in cervicovaginal secretions related to preterm birth have been investigated, of which foetal fibronectin (fFN) shows the greatest potential because of its high negative predictive value. The immunomagnetic reduction (IMR) assay has emerged as a novel quantitative method to detect biomarkers. In this prospective case-control study, we analysed 33 samples of cervicovaginal secretions from pregnant women between 22 and 34 weeks of gestation at high risk of preterm birth. Seventeen samples were from women with term deliveries and 16 from those with preterm deliveries. The fFN concentration in each sample was measured using both an IMR assay and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The low detection limits of the IMR assay and ELISA were 0.0001 ng/mL and 0.789 ng/mL, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of the IMR assay were 0.833 and 0.944, respectively, compared to 0.583 and 0.611 by ELISA. Our results suggest that measuring the concentration of fFN with the IMR assay is a good alternative method to accurately predict the risk of preterm birth.
An acoustic key to eight languages/dialects: Factor analyses of critical-band-filtered speech
Authors: Ueda Kazuo , Nakajima Yoshitaka
Published: February 2017

The peripheral auditory system functions like a frequency analyser, often modelled as a bank of non-overlapping band-pass filters called critical bands; 20 bands are necessary for simulating frequency resolution of the ear within an ordinary frequency range of speech (up to 7,000 Hz). A far smaller number of filters seemed sufficient, however, to re-synthesise intelligible speech sentences with power fluctuations of the speech signals passing through them; nevertheless, the number and frequency ranges of the frequency bands for efficient speech communication are yet unknown. We derived four common frequency bands—covering approximately 50–540, 540–1,700, 1,700–3,300, and above 3,300 Hz—from factor analyses of spectral fluctuations in eight different spoken languages/dialects. The analyses robustly led to three factors common to all languages investigated—the low & mid-high factor related to the two separate frequency ranges of 50–540 and 1,700–3,300 Hz, the mid-low factor the range of 540–1,700 Hz, and the high factor the range above 3,300 Hz—in these different languages/dialects, suggesting a language universal.
A Mutation Identified in Neonatal Microcephaly Destabilizes Zika Virus NS1 Assembly in Vitro
Authors: Wang Deping , Chen Cheng , Liu Shengnan , Zhou Han , Yang Kailin , Zhao Qi , Ji Xiaoyun , Chen Chen , Xie Wei , Wang Zefang , Mi Li-Zhi , Yang Haitao
Published: February 2017

An unprecedented epidemic of Zika virus (ZIKV) infection had spread to South and Central America. ZIKV infection was recently confirmed by CDC (the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) to cause neonatal microcephaly, which posed a significant public health emergency of international concern. No specific vaccines or drugs are currently available to fight ZIKV infection. ZIKV nonstructural protein 1 (NS1) plays an essential role in viral replication and immune evasion. We determined the crystal structure of ZIKV NS1172–352, which forms a head-to-head, symmetric dimer with a unique 14-stranded β-ladder conserved among flaviviruses. The assembly of the β-ladder dimer is concentration dependent. Strikingly, one pathogenic mutation T233A (NCBI accession no. KU527068), found in the brain tissue of infected fetus with neonatal microcephaly, is located at the dimer interface. Thr233, a unique residue found in ZIKV but not in other flaviviruses, organizes a central hydrogen bonding network at NS1 dimer interface. Mutation of Thr233 to Ala disrupts this elaborated interaction network, and destabilizes the NS1 dimeric assembly in vitro. In addition, our structural comparison of epitopes for protective antibody 22NS1, targeting West Nile Virus NS1, could potentially be valuable in understanding its anti-virus specificities and in the development of antibodies against ZIKV.
Pre-encoding gamma-band activity during auditory working memory
Authors: Kaiser Jochen , Rieder Maria , Abel Cornelius , Peters Benjamin , Bledowski Christoph
Published: February 2017

Previous magnetoencephalography (MEG) studies have revealed gamma-band activity at sensors over parietal and fronto-temporal cortex during the delay phase of auditory spatial and non-spatial match-to-sample tasks, respectively. While this activity was interpreted as reflecting the memory maintenance of sound features, we noted that task-related activation differences might have been present already prior to the onset of the sample stimulus. The present study focused on the interval between a visual cue indicating which sound feature was to be memorized (lateralization or pitch) and sample sound presentation to test for task-related activation differences preceding stimulus encoding. MEG spectral activity was analyzed with cluster randomization tests (N = 15). Whereas there were no differences in frequencies below 40 Hz, gamma-band spectral amplitude (about 50–65 and 90–100 Hz) was higher for the lateralization than the pitch task. This activity was localized at right posterior and central sensors and present for several hundred ms after task cue offset. Activity at 50–65 Hz was also increased throughout the delay phase for the lateralization compared with the pitch task. Apparently cortical networks related to auditory spatial processing were activated after participants had been informed about the task.
Evaluation of the immunological profile of antibody-functionalized metal-filled single-walled carbon nanocapsules for targeted radiotherapy
Authors: Perez Ruiz de Garibay Aritz , Spinato Cinzia , Klippstein Rebecca , Bourgognon Maxime , Martincic Markus , Pach Elzbieta , Ballesteros Belén , Ménard-Moyon Cécilia , Al-Jamal Khuloud T. , Tobias Gerard , Bianco Alberto
Published: February 2017

This study investigates the immune responses induced by metal-filled single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) under in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo settings. Either empty amino-functionalized CNTs [SWCNT-NH2 (1)] or samarium chloride-filled amino-functionalized CNTs with [SmCl3@SWCNT-mAb (3)] or without [SmCl3@SWCNT-NH2 (2)] Cetuximab functionalization were tested. Conjugates were added to RAW 264.7 or PBMC cells in a range of 1 μg/ml to 100 μg/ml for 24 h. Cell viability and IL-6/TNFα production were determined by flow cytometry and ELISA. Additionally, the effect of SWCNTs on the number of T lymphocytes, B lymphocytes and monocytes within the PBMC subpopulations was evaluated by immunostaining and flow cytometry. The effect on monocyte number in living mice was assessed after tail vein injection (150 μg of each conjugate per mouse) at 1, 7 and 13 days post-injection. Overall, our study showed that all the conjugates had no significant effect on cell viability of RAW 264.7 but conjugates 1 and 3 led to a slight increase in IL-6/TNFα. All the conjugates resulted in significant reduction in monocyte/macrophage cell numbers within PBMCs in a dose-dependent manner. Interestingly, monocyte depletion was not observed in vivo, suggesting their suitability for future testing in the field of targeted radiotherapy in mice.
An integrated microfluidic device for rapid and high-sensitivity analysis of circulating tumor cells
Authors: Jiang Jianing , Zhao Hui , Shu Weiliang , Tian Jing , Huang Yuqing , Song Yongxin , Wang Ruoyu , Li Encheng , Slamon Dennis , Hou Dongmei , Du Xiaohui , Zhang Lichuan , Chen Yan , Wang Qi
Published: February 2017

Recently there has been a more focus on the development of an efficient technique for detection of circulating tumor cells (CTCs), due to their significance in prognosis and therapy of metastatic cancer. However, it remains a challenge because of the low count of CTCs in the blood. Herein, a rapid and high-sensitivity approach for CTCs detection using an integrated microfluidic system, consisting of a deterministic lateral displacement (DLD) isolating structure, an automatic purifying device with CD45-labeled immunomagnetic beads and a capturing platform coated with rat-tail collagen was reported. We observed high capture rate of 90%, purity of about 50% and viability of more than 90% at the high throughput of 1 mL/min by capturing green fluorescent protein (GFP)-positive cells from blood. Further capturing of CTCs from metastatic cancers patients revealed a positive capture rate of 83.3%. Furthermore, our device was compared with CellSearch system via parallel analysis of 30 cancer patients, to find no significant difference between the capture efficiency of both methods. However, our device displayed advantage in terms of time, sample volume and cost for analysis. Thus, our integrated device with sterile environment and convenient use will be a promising platform for CTCs detection with potential clinical application.
Polyimide-coated carbon electrodes combined with redox mediators for superior Li-O2 cells with excellent cycling performance and decreased overpotential
Authors: Yoon Seon Hye , Park Yong Joon
Published: February 2017

We report an air electrode employing polyimide-coated carbon nanotubes (CNTs) combined with a redox mediator for Li-O2 cells with enhanced electrochemical performance. The polyimide coating on the carbon surface suppresses unwanted side reactions, which decreases the amount of accumulated reaction products on the surface of the air electrode during cycling. The redox mediators lower the overpotential of the Li-O2 cells because they can easily transfer electrons from the electrode to the reaction products. The low overpotential can also decrease the side reactions that activate at a high potential range. Specifically, the CsI redox mediator effectively interrupted dendrite growth on the Li anode during cycling due to the shielding effect of its Cs+ ions and acted as a redox mediator due to its I− ions. LiNO3 also facilitates the decrease in side reactions and the stabilization of the Li anode. The synergic effect of the polyimide coating and the electrolyte containing the LiNO3/CsI redox mediator leads to a low overpotential and excellent cycling performance (over 250 cycles with a capacity of 1,500 mAh·gelectrode−1).
Undervaluing delayed rewards explains adolescents’ impulsivity in inter-temporal choice: an ERP study
Authors: Huang Yunyun , Hu Ping , Li Xueting
Published: February 2017

Adolescence has frequently been characterized as a period of choice impulsivity relative to adulthood. According to the control-integrated valuation model of inter-temporal choice, this choice impulsivity may be driven partly by an age-related difference in reward processing. We hypothesized that, compared to adults, adolescents would undervalue delayed rewards during reward processing and would thus be more impulsive in inter-temporal choice. To test this hypothesis at the behavioural and neural levels, we first measured the choice impulsivity of 18 adolescents and 19 adults using a delay discounting task (DDT). Then, we recorded event-related potentials (ERPs) from the participants while they were performing the valuation task, in which monetary gains and losses were either immediate or delayed. The behavioural results showed that adolescents were more impulsive than adults in the DDT. The ERP results showed that, whilst both groups valued immediate rewards, implied by a similarly strong feedback-related negativity (FRN) effect associated with immediate outcomes, adolescents devalued delayed rewards more than adults did, as they produced a significantly smaller FRN effect associated with delayed outcomes. As predicted, the mediation analysis revealed that the adolescents’ lower FRN effect of delayed outcomes underpinned their stronger impulsive decision making in the DDT.
Investigation of hippocampal synaptic transmission and plasticity in mice deficient in the actin-binding protein Drebrin
Authors: Willmes Claudia G. , Mack Till G. A. , Ledderose Julia , Schmitz Dietmar , Wozny Christian , Eickholt Britta J.
Published: February 2017

The dynamic regulation of the actin cytoskeleton plays a key role in controlling the structure and function of synapses. It is vital for activity-dependent modulation of synaptic transmission and long-term changes in synaptic morphology associated with memory consolidation. Several regulators of actin dynamics at the synapse have been identified, of which a salient one is the postsynaptic actin stabilising protein Drebrin (DBN). It has been suggested that DBN modulates neurotransmission and changes in dendritic spine morphology associated with synaptic plasticity. Given that a decrease in DBN levels is correlated with cognitive deficits associated with ageing and dementia, it was hypothesised that DBN protein abundance instructs the integrity and function of synapses. We created a novel DBN deficient mouse line. Analysis of gross brain and neuronal morphology revealed no phenotype in the absence of DBN. Electrophysiological recordings in acute hippocampal slices and primary hippocampal neuronal cultures showed that basal synaptic transmission, and both long-term and homeostatic synaptic plasticity were unchanged, suggesting that loss of DBN is not sufficient in inducing synapse dysfunction. We propose that the overall lack of changes in synaptic function and plasticity in DBN deficient mice may indicate robust compensatory mechanisms that safeguard cytoskeleton dynamics at the synapse.
Discovery of the Fe-analogue of akimotoite in the shocked Suizhou L6 chondrite
Authors: Bindi Luca , Chen Ming , Xie Xiande
Published: February 2017

We report the first natural occurrence of the Fe-analogue of akimotoite, ilmenite-structured MgSiO3, a missing phase among the predicted high-pressure polymorphs of Fe-pyroxene, with the composition (Fe2+0.48Mg0.37Ca0.04Na0.04Mn2+0.03Al0.03Cr3+0.01)Σ=1.00Si1.00O3. The new mineral was approved by the International Mineralogical Association (IMA 2016-085) and named hemleyite in honour of Russell J. Hemley. It was discovered in an unmelted portion of the heavily shocked L6 Suizhou chondrite closely associated to olivine, clinoenstatite and Fe-bearing pyroxene with a composition nearly identical to that of hemleyite. We also report the first single-crystal X-ray diffraction study of a Si-bearing, ilmenite-structured phase. The fact that hemleyite formed in a meteorite exposed to high pressures (<20 GPa) and temperatures (<2000 °C) during impact-induced shocks indicates that it could play a crucial role at the bottom of the Earth’s mantle transition zone and within the uppermost lower mantle.
All-nitride AlxGa1−xN:Mn/GaN distributed Bragg reflectors for the near-infrared
Authors: Capuzzo Giulia , Kysylychyn Dmytro , Adhikari Rajdeep , Li Tian , Faina Bogdan , Tarazaga Martín-Luengo Aitana , Bonanni Alberta
Published: February 2017

Since the technological breakthrough prompted by the inception of light emitting diodes based on III-nitrides, these material systems have emerged as strategic semiconductors not only for the lighting of the future, but also for the new generation of high-power electronic and spintronic devices. While III-nitride optoelectronics in the visible and ultraviolet spectral range is widely established, all-nitride efficient devices in the near-infrared (NIR) are still wanted. Here, through a comprehensive protocol of design, modeling, epitaxial growth and in-depth characterization, we develop AlxGa1−xN:Mn/GaN NIR distributed Bragg reflectors and we show their efficiency in combination with GaN:(Mn,Mg) layers containing Mn-Mgk complexes optically active in the near-infrared range of wavelengths.
1-Ethyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate as a highly efficient organocatalyst for cyanosilylation of carbonyl compounds with trimethylsilyl cyanide
Authors: Ullah Bakhtar , Chen Jingwen , Zhang Zhiguo , Xing Huabin , Yang Qiwei , Bao Zongbi , Ren Qilong
Published: February 2017

1-Ethyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate is introduced as a robust organocatalyst for solvent-free cyanosilylation of carbonyl compounds with trimethylsilyl cyanide (TMSCN). The catalyst loading can be reduced to as low as 0.1–0.0001 mol % under mild reaction conditions, giving considerably high TOF values from 10,843 h−1 to 10,602,410 h−1 in the field of organocatalyzed transformations. The present protocol not only tolerates with extensive carbonyl compounds but also provides somewhat insight into the mechanism of ionic liquids (ILs)-catalyzed reactions.
Four reversible and reconfigurable structures for three-phase emulsions: extended morphologies and applications
Authors: Ge Xue-hui , Geng Yu-hao , Zhang Qiao-chu , Shao Meng , Chen Jian , Luo Guang-sheng , Xu Jian-hong
Published: February 2017

Here in this article, we classify and conclude the four morphologies of three-phase emulsions. Remarkably, we achieve the reversible transformations between every shape. Through theoretical analysis, we choose four liquid systems to form these four morphologies. Then monodispersed droplets with these four morphologies are formed through a microfluidic device and captured in a petri-dish. By replacing their ambient solution of the captured emulsions, in-situ morphology transformations between each shape are achieved. The process is well recorded through photographs and videos and they are systematical and reversible. Finally, we use the droplets structure to form an on-off switch to start and shut off the evaporation of one volatile phase to achieve the process monitoring. This could be used to initiate and quench a reaction, which offers a novel idea to achieve the switchable and reversible reaction control in multiple-phase reactions.
Recombinant vacuolar iron transporter family homologue PfVIT from human malaria-causing Plasmodium falciparum is a Fe2+/H+exchanger
Authors: Labarbuta Paola , Duckett Katie , Botting Catherine H. , Chahrour Osama , Malone John , Dalton John P. , Law Christopher J.
Published: February 2017

Vacuolar iron transporters (VITs) are a poorly understood family of integral membrane proteins that can function in iron homeostasis via sequestration of labile Fe2+ into vacuolar compartments. Here we report on the heterologous overexpression and purification of PfVIT, a vacuolar iron transporter homologue from the human malaria-causing parasite Plasmodium falciparum. Use of synthetic, codon-optimised DNA enabled overexpression of functional PfVIT in the inner membrane of Escherichia coli which, in turn, conferred iron tolerance to the bacterial cells. Cells that expressed PfVIT had decreased levels of total cellular iron compared with cells that did not express the protein. Qualitative transport assays performed on inverted vesicles enriched with PfVIT revealed that the transporter catalysed Fe2+/H+ exchange driven by the proton electrochemical gradient. Furthermore, the PfVIT transport function in this system did not require the presence of any Plasmodium-specific factor such as post-translational phosphorylation. PfVIT purified as a monomer and, as measured by intrinsic protein fluorescence quenching, bound Fe2+ in detergent solution with low micromolar affinity. This study of PfVIT provides material for future detailed biochemical, biophysical and structural studies to advance understanding of the vacuolar iron transporter family of membrane proteins from important human pathogens.
Colorimetric probe for copper(ii) ion detection based on cost-effective aminoquinoline derivative
Authors: Wang Yun , Wan Weijie , Qiu Suyan , Luo Linguang , Li Youguo , Guo Longhua , Lin Zhenyu , Chen Guonan
Published: February 2017

A readily available aminoquinoline derivative is used as a cost-effective colorimetric probe for Cu2+ detection through a discernable color change.
Microvalve-based bioprinting – process, bio-inks and applications
Authors: Ng Wei Long , Lee Jia Min , Yeong Wai Yee , Win Naing May
Published: February 2017

DOD microvalve-based bioprinting system provides a highly advanced manufacturing platform that facilitates precise control over the cellular and biomaterial deposition in a highly reproducible and reliable manner. This article highlights promising directions to transform microvalve-based bioprinting into an enabling technology that will potentially drive significant advances in the field of TERM.
A novel strategy for high-performance transparent conductive films based on double-walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: He Yuan , Jin Hehua , Qiu Song , Li Qingwen
Published: February 2017

A high concentration of double-walled carbon nanotubes was dispersed by a carbazole-based conjugated polymer.
Space charge storage in composites: thermodynamics
Authors: Chen Chia-Chin , Maier Joachim
Published: February 2017

Contacts of two phases, which allow for synergistic dissociative storage of a component in the two space charge zones (“job-sharing storage”), are considered from the viewpoint of point defect thermodynamics. The respective relations between charge and component activity are derived, or – for more complex cases – the recipes for their derivation are given.
Catalytic decomposition and mechanism of formaldehyde over Pt–Al2O3 molecular sieves at room temperature
Authors: Zhu Xiaofeng , Yu Jiaguo , Jiang Chuanjia , Cheng Bei
Published: February 2017

Al2O3 molecular sieve supported Pt was prepared for catalytic formaldehyde oxidation at room temperature.
Chaotic variations of electrical conductance in powdered Pd correlating with oscillatory sorption of D2
Authors: Lalik E. , Mordarski G. , Socha R. P. , Drelinkiewicz A.
Published: February 2017

Periodic thermokinetic oscillations correlate with chaotic fluctuations of electric current passed through palladium powder during sorption of deuterium.
Spin relaxation studies of Li+ ion dynamics in polymer gel electrolytes
Authors: Brinkkötter M. , Gouverneur M. , Sebastião P. J. , Vaca Chávez F. , Schönhoff M.
Published: February 2017

Investigation of the beneficial effect of PDADMA in comparison to PEO on the local lithium ion dynamics.
An integrated perspective on RNA aptamer ligand-recognition models: clearing muddy waters
Authors: McCluskey K. , Carlos Penedo J.
Published: February 2017

We present a review on RNA–ligand interaction mechanisms and propose a new framework to classify RNA ligand binding models.
An In situ TEM study of the surface oxidation of palladium nanocrystals assisted by electron irradiation
Authors: Zhang Dejiong , Jin Chuanhong , Tian He , Xiong Yalin , Zhang Hui , Qiao Peisheng , Fan Jie , Zhang Ze , Li Z. Y. , Li Jixue
Published: February 2017

An In situ atomic scale study of the surface oxidation of Pd nanocrystals.
B. amyloliquefaciens TCCC 11319, a new Cr(iii)-tolerant bacterium for chromium-tanned leather shaving disposal
Authors: Cao Shan , Xin Qinglong , Zhou Shiting , Xue Bin , Liu Bing , Lu Fuping , Wang Yanping , Li Yu
Published: February 2017

A strain ofB. amyloliquefaciens, TCCC11319, was isolated from tannery soil and identified by 16S rRNA gene sequencing.
Enhancement of textile-dyeing sludge dewaterability using a novel cationic polyacrylamide: role of cationic block structures
Authors: Feng Li , Zheng Huaili , Gao Baoyu , Zhao Chuanliang , Zhang Shixin , Chen Nan
Published: February 2017

A novel cationic polyacrylamide (CPAM) with a microblock structure was synthesized through ultrasonic-initiated template copolymerization (UTP) using allyltrimethylammonium chloride (TM) and acrylamide (AM) as monomers, and sodium polyacrylate (NaPAA) as a template.
Combining batch and continuous flow setups in the end-to-end synthesis of naturally occurring curcuminoids
Authors: Carmona-Vargas Christian C. , de C. Alves Leandro , Brocksom Timothy J. , de Oliveira Kleber T.
Published: February 2017

A successful end-to-end continuous flow synthesis of pure curcumin (1) and two other natural derivatives present in turmeric is described.
Unraveling the structure and exciton coupling for multichromophoric merocyanine dye molecules
Authors: Koch Federico , Stolte Matthias , Zitzler-Kunkel André , Bialas David , Steinbacher Andreas , Brixner Tobias , Würthner Frank
Published: February 2017

The relative orientation of chromophores is a key factor in determining the relationship between the structure and the functionality in molecular multichromophore ensembles. By combining experiment and theory, the determination of the structure and origin of interaction of flexible multichromophoric systems in solution is possible.
Switching a nitrilase from Syechocystis sp. PCC6803 to a nitrile hydratase by rationally regulating reaction pathways
Authors: Jiang Shuiqin , Zhang Lujia , Yao Zhiqiang , Gao Bei , Wang Hualei , Mao Xiangzhao , Wei Dongzhi
Published: February 2017

Based on this mechanism, a nitrilase was engineered to shift the reaction pathway from formation of acid to formation of amide.
Photoisomerization of ruthenium(ii) aquo complexes: mechanistic insights and application development
Authors: Hirahara Masanari , Yagi Masayuki
Published: February 2017

The perspective article highlights a new strategic synthesis of dinuclear ruthenium(ii) complexes acting as active water oxidation catalysts and also reports the development of unique visible-light-responsive giant vesicles, both of which are achieved based on photoisomerization.
Ditopic receptors containing urea groups for solvent extraction of Cu(ii) salts
Authors: Carreira-Barral Israel , Mato-Iglesias Marta , de Blas Andrés , Platas-Iglesias Carlos , Tasker Peter A. , Esteban-Gómez David
Published: February 2017

Ditopic receptors containing a macrocyclic cyclen unit and a urea moiety provide selective recognition of first-row divalent metal salts.
Cadmium complexes bearing Me2N^E^O− (E = S, Se) organochalcogenoalkoxides and their zinc and mercury analogues
Authors: Pop Alexandra , Bellini Clément , Şuteu Răzvan , Dorcet Vincent , Roisnel Thierry , Carpentier Jean-François , Silvestru Anca , Sarazin Yann
Published: February 2017

The chemistry of organochalcogenoalkoxides containing hard (N/O) and soft (S/Se) atoms onto Zn–Hg is explored by diffraction and NMR methods.
A fast chemical approach towards Sb2S3 film with a large grain size for high-performance planar heterojunction solar cells
Authors: Wang Xiaomin , Li Jianmin , Liu Weifeng , Yang Shangfeng , Zhu Changfei , Chen Tao
Published: February 2017

A solar cell based on large grain Sb2S3 film with high efficiency and stability is fabricated by a fast chemical approach.
Cationic glycopolymers through controlled polymerisation of a glucosamine-based monomer mimicking the behaviour of chitosan
Authors: Du Alice W. , Lu Hongxu , Stenzel Martina H.
Published: February 2017

A newly synthesised glucosamine-based monomer was able to undergo controlled polymerisation and retain amine functionality. The resulting polymer had mucoadhesive properties similar to chitosan.
Physicochemical properties of [Cnmim][TFA] (n = 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) ionic liquids
Authors: Fang Da-Wei , Zhang Fang , Jia Rui , Shan Wei-jun , Xia Li-xin , Yang Jia-zhen
Published: February 2017

A series of ionic liquids based on trifluoroacetic acid, namely, [Cnmim][TFA] (n= 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) (1-alkyl-3-methylimidazolium trifluoroacetate), were designed and synthesized.
Distinctly enhanced permeability and excellent microwave absorption of expanded graphite/Fe3O4 nanoring composites
Authors: Zhao Yanting , Liu Lin , Jiang Kedan , Fan Mengting , Jin Chen , Han Jianv , Wu Wenhua , Tong Guoxiu
Published: February 2017

Distinct enhancement of permeability and permittivity is found in expanded graphite/Fe3O4 nanoring composites caused by planar anisotropy, plasmon resonance, electromagnetic coupling, and interfacial polarization.
Boosting the performance of resistive switching memory with a transparent ITO electrode using supercritical fluid nitridation
Authors: Ye Cong , Wu Jia-Ji , Pan Chih-Hung , Tsai Tsung-Ming , Chang Kuan-Chang , Wu Huaqiang , Deng Ning , Qian He
Published: February 2017

A low temperature supercritical fluid nitridation (SCF-nitridation) technique was investigated to dope nitrogen into a indium-tin-oxide (ITO) electrode to boost the performance of hafnium oxide resistive random access memory (RRAM).
Proton transfer in microbial electrolysis cells
Authors: Borole Abhijeet P. , Lewis Alex J.
Published: February 2017

Proton transfer in microbial electrochemical cells is as important as electron transfer. This study quantifies proton transfer rates in MEC for the first time. Control of flow rate and loading rate allows improvement in proton transfer rates enabling hydrogen productivities >10 L per L per day.
Mechanisms for nonmitotic activation of Aurora-A at cilia
Authors: Korobeynikov Vladislav , Deneka Alexander Y. , Golemis Erica A.
Published: February 2017

Overexpression of the Aurora kinase A (AURKA) is oncogenic in many tumors. Many studies of AURKA have focused on activities of this kinase in mitosis, and elucidated the mechanisms by which AURKA activity is induced at the G2/M boundary through interactions with proteins such as TPX2 and NEDD9. These studies have informed the development of small molecule inhibitors of AURKA, of which a number are currently under preclinical and clinical assessment. While the first activities defined for AURKA were its control of centrosomal maturation and organization of the mitotic spindle, an increasing number of studies over the past decade have recognized a separate biological function of AURKA, in controlling disassembly of the primary cilium, a small organelle protruding from the cell surface that serves as a signaling platform. Importantly, these activities require activation of AURKA in early G1, and the mechanisms of activation are much less well defined than those in mitosis. A better understanding of the control of AURKA activity and the role of AURKA at cilia are both important in optimizing the efficacy and interpreting potential downstream consequences of AURKA inhibitors in the clinic. We here provide a current overview of proteins and mechanisms that have been defined as activating AURKA in G1, based on the study of ciliary disassembly.
Technological advances for interrogating the human kinome
Authors: Baharani Akanksha , Trost Brett , Kusalik Anthony , Napper Scott
Published: February 2017

There is increasing appreciation among researchers and clinicians of the value of investigating biology and pathobiology at the level of cellular kinase (kinome) activity. Kinome analysis provides valuable opportunity to gain insights into complex biology (including disease pathology), identify biomarkers of critical phenotypes (including disease prognosis and evaluation of therapeutic efficacy), and identify targets for therapeutic intervention through kinase inhibitors. The growing interest in kinome analysis has fueled efforts to develop and optimize technologies that enable characterization of phosphorylation-mediated signaling events in a cost-effective, high-throughput manner. In this review, we highlight recent advances to the central technologies currently available for kinome profiling and offer our perspectives on the key challenges remaining to be addressed.
Protein S-palmitoylation in cellular differentiation
Authors: Zhang Mingzi M. , Hang Howard C.
Published: February 2017

Reversible protein S-palmitoylation confers spatiotemporal control of protein function by modulating protein stability, trafficking and activity, as well as protein–protein and membrane–protein associations. Enabled by technological advances, global studies revealed S-palmitoylation to be an important and pervasive posttranslational modification in eukaryotes with the potential to coordinate diverse biological processes as cells transition from one state to another. Here, we review the strategies and tools to analyze in vivo protein palmitoylation and interrogate the functions of the enzymes that put on and take off palmitate from proteins. We also highlight palmitoyl proteins and palmitoylation-related enzymes that are associated with cellular differentiation and/or tissue development in yeasts, protozoa, mammals, plants and other model eukaryotes.
LRRK2 mouse models: dissecting the behavior, striatal neurochemistry and neurophysiology of PD pathogenesis
Authors: Volta Mattia , Melrose Heather
Published: February 2017

Mutations in leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) are the most common genetic cause of familial Parkinson's disease (PD), resembling the sporadic disorder. Intensive effort has been directed toward LRRK2 mouse modeling and investigation, aimed at reproducing the human disease to inform mechanistic studies of pathogenesis and design of neuroprotective therapies. The physiological function of LRRK2 is still under exploration, but a clear role in striatal neurophysiology and animal behavior has emerged. Alterations in LRRK2 impair dopamine (DA) transmission, regulation and signaling, in addition to corticostriatal synaptic plasticity. Consistently, several subtle abnormalities in motor and nonmotor abilities have been demonstrated in LRRK2 genetic mouse models, generally paralleling preclinical symptoms of early DA dysfunction. However, the variability in model design and phenotypes observed requires a critical approach in interpreting the results, adapting the model used to the specific research question. Etiologically appropriate knockin mice might represent the ultimate animal model in which to study early disease mechanisms and therapies as well as to investigate drug effectiveness and off-target consequences.
LRRK2 in peripheral and central nervous system innate immunity: its link to Parkinson's disease
Authors: Lee Heyne , James William S. , Cowley Sally A.
Published: February 2017

Mutations in the leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) gene are found in familial and idiopathic cases of Parkinson's disease (PD), but are also associated with immune-related disorders, notably Crohn's disease and leprosy. Although the physiological function of LRRK2 protein remains largely elusive, increasing evidence suggests that it plays a role in innate immunity, a process that also has been implicated in neurodegenerative diseases, including PD. Innate immunity involves macrophages and microglia, in which endogenous LRRK2 expression is precisely regulated and expression is strongly up-regulated upon cell activation. This brief report discusses the current understanding of the involvement of LRRK2 in innate immunity particularly in relation to PD, critically examining its role in myeloid cells, particularly macrophages and microglia.
Cancer-associated fibroblasts modulate growth factor signaling and extracellular matrix remodeling to regulate tumor metastasis
Authors: Erdogan Begum , Webb Donna J.
Published: February 2017

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are major components of the surrounding stroma of carcinomas that emerge in the tumor microenvironment as a result of signals derived from the cancer cells. Biochemical cross-talk between cancer cells and CAFs as well as mechanical remodeling of the stromal extracellular matrix (ECM) by CAFs are important contributors to tumor cell migration and invasion, which are critical for cancer progression from a primary tumor to metastatic disease. In this review, we discuss key paracrine signaling pathways between CAFs and cancer cells that promote cancer cell migration and invasion. In addition, we discuss physical changes that CAFs exert on the stromal ECM to facilitate migration and invasion of cancer cells.
Components of the mitochondrial cAMP signalosome
Authors: Monterisi Stefania , Zaccolo Manuela
Published: February 2017

3′-5′-Cyclic adenosine monophosphate/protein kinase A (cAMP/PKA) signalling is activated by different extracellular stimuli and mediates many diverse processes within the same cell. It is now well established that in order to translate into the appropriate cellular function multiple extracellular inputs, which may act simultaneously on the same cell, the cAMP/PKA signalling pathway is compartmentalised. Multimolecular complexes are organised at specific subcellular sites to generate spatially confined signalosomes, which include effectors, modulators and targets of the pathway. In recent years, it has become evident that mitochondria represent sites of compartmentalised cAMP signalling. However, the exact location and the molecular composition of distinct mitochondria signalosomes and their function remain largely unknown. In this review, we focus on individual components of the cAMP/PKA signalling pathway at distinct mitochondria subdomains represented by the outer and inner mitochondrial membranes, the intermembrane space and the matrix, highlighting some of the questions that remain unanswered.
From molecular chaperones to membrane motors: through the lens of a mass spectrometrist
Authors: Robinson Carol V.
Published: February 2017

Twenty-five years ago, we obtained our first mass spectra of molecular chaperones in complex with protein ligands and entered a new field of gas-phase structural biology. It is perhaps now time to pause and reflect, and to ask how many of our initial structure predictions and models derived from mass spectrometry (MS) datasets were correct. With recent advances in structure determination, many of the most challenging complexes that we studied over the years have become tractable by other structural biology approaches enabling such comparisons to be made. Moreover, in the light of powerful new electron microscopy methods, what role is there now for MS? In considering these questions, I will give my personal view on progress and problems as well as my predictions for future directions.
First identification ofKrüppel-like factor 2mutation in heritable pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Eichstaedt Christina A. , Song Jie , Viales Rebecca Rodríguez , Pan Zixuan , Benjamin Nicola , Fischer Christine , Hoeper Marius M. , Ulrich Silvia , Hinderhofer Katrin , Grünig Ekkehard
Published: February 2017

Heritable pulmonary arterial hypertension (HPAH) is an autosomal dominantly inherited disease caused by mutations in the bone morphogenic protein receptor 2 (BMPR2) gene and/or genes of its signalling pathway in approximately 85% of patients. We clinically and genetically analysed an HPAH family without mutations in previously described pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) genes. Clinical assessment included electrocardiogram, lung function, blood gas analysis, chest X-ray, laboratory testing, echocardiography and right heart catheterization in case of suspected disease. Genetic diagnostics were performed using a PAH-specific gene panel including all known 12 PAH genes and 20 further candidate genes by next-generation sequencing (NGS). HPAH was invasively confirmed in two sisters and their father who died aged 32 years. No signs of HPAH were detected in five first-degree family members. Both sisters were lung transplanted and remained stable during a follow-up of >20 years. We detected a novel missense mutation in the Krüppel-like factor 2 (KLF2) likely leading to a disruption of gene function. The same KLF2 mutation has been described as a recurrent somatic mutation in B-cell lymphoma. Neither the healthy family members carried the mutation nor >120000 controls. These findings point to KLF2 as a new PAH gene. Further studies are needed to assess frequency and implication of KLF2 mutations in PAH patients.
Growth of Expressive Syntax in Children With Fragile X Syndrome
Authors: Komesidou Rouzana , Brady Nancy C. , Fleming Kandace , Esplund Amy , Warren Steven F.
Published: February 2017

Purpose

This research explored syntactic growth in children with fragile X syndrome (FXS) over a 5-year period, and variability in growth in relation to autism symptoms, nonverbal cognition, maternal responsivity, and gender.

Method

Language samples at 4 time points from 39 children with FXS, 31 boys and 8 girls, were analyzed using the Index of Productive Syntax (Scarborough, 1990) and mean length of utterance (Brown, 1973). The degree of autism symptoms was evaluated using the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (Schopler, Reichler, & Renner, 1988) at the first time point. Maternal responsivity estimates were averaged across time points.

Results

Children with FXS showed significant syntactic growth over time and a significant plateau (quadratic trend) in the later observations. Children who exhibited more autism symptoms at Time 1 had significantly lower syntactic abilities over time than children who exhibited fewer autism symptoms. Nonverbal cognition significantly predicted mean length of utterance scores but not Index of Productive Syntax scores. Maternal responsivity was not a significant predictor of syntactic outcomes. Girls with FXS generally demonstrated better expressive syntax than boys with FXS with notable individual differences.

Conclusion

Despite significant growth over time, expressive syntax is a vulnerable domain for children with FXS, especially for those with severe autism symptoms. Clinical implications arising from the current findings are discussed.
Influence of Left–Right Asymmetries on Voice Quality in Simulated Paramedian Vocal Fold Paralysis
Authors: Samlan Robin A. , Story Brad H.
Published: February 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine the vocal fold structural and vibratory symmetries that are important to vocal function and voice quality in a simulated paramedian vocal fold paralysis.

Method

A computational kinematic speech production model was used to simulate an exemplar “voice” on the basis of asymmetric settings of parameters controlling glottal configuration. These parameters were then altered individually to determine their effect on maximum flow declination rate, spectral slope, cepstral peak prominence, harmonics-to-noise ratio, and perceived voice quality.

Results

Asymmetry of each of the 5 vocal fold parameters influenced vocal function and voice quality; measured change was greatest for adduction and bulging. Increasing the symmetry of all parameters improved voice, and the best voice occurred with overcorrection of adduction, followed by bulging, nodal point ratio, starting phase, and amplitude of vibration.

Conclusions

Although vocal process adduction and edge bulging asymmetries are most influential in voice quality for simulated vocal fold motion impairment, amplitude of vibration and starting phase asymmetries are also perceptually important. These findings are consistent with the current surgical approach to vocal fold motion impairment, where goals include medializing the vocal process and straightening concave edges. The results also explain many of the residual postoperative voice limitations.