bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mitral valve repair based on intraoperative objective measurement
Authors: Grinberg Daniel , Le Minh-Quyen , Kwon Young Joon , Fernandez Miguel A. , Audigier David , Ganet Florent , Capsal Jean-Fabien , Obadia Jean François , Cottinet Pierre-Jean
Published: March 2019

In this paper, we propose a very innovative designed system that enables optimal length adjustment during transapical neochordae implantation for mitral valve repair, increasing accuracy and reproducibility of neochordae length adjustment. Also, such a new device allowed real-time measurement and recording of chordae tension, producing original physiological data. To the best of our knowledge, the tension of chordae had never been measured previously as precisely, especially in in vivo human clinical trials. Preliminary experimental data have been collected on 10 selected patients, giving us the opportunity to assess for the first time the tension applied on the chordae implanted in beating human hearts. The final goal of our measuring device is to provide reliable objective intraoperative data to improve the understanding of changes occurring after mitral valve repair (MVR). This novel measuring instrument may bring change in the paradigm of MVR by allowing repair with strong objective and quantitative, instead of qualitative anatomical analysis.
Characterization, identification and evaluation of a set of wheat-Aegilops comosa chromosome lines
Authors: Liu Cheng , Gong Wenping , Han Ran , Guo Jun , Li Guangrong , Li Haosheng , Song Jianmin , Liu Aifeng , Cao Xinyou , Zhai Shengnan , Cheng Dungong , Li Genying , Zhao Zhendong , Yang Zujun , Liu Jianjun , Reader Stephen M.
Published: March 2019

This study characterized and evaluated a set of wheat-Aegilops comosa introgression lines, including six additions and one substitution. A total of 47 PLUG markers and a set of cytogenetic markers specific for Ae. comosa chromosomes were established after screening 526 PLUG primer pairs and performing FISH using oligonucleotides as probes. Marker analysis confirmed that these lines were wheat-Ae. comosa 2M–7M addition lines and a 6M(6A) substitution line. The molecular and cytogenetic markers developed herein could be used to trace Ae. comosa chromatin in wheat background. In order to evaluate the breeding value of the material, disease resistance tests and agronomical trait investigations were carried out on these alien chromosome introgression lines. Disease resistance tests showed that chromosomes 2M and 7M of Ae. comosa might harbor new stripe rust and powdery mildew resistance genes, respectively, therefore, they could be used as resistance sources for wheat breeding. Investigations into agronomical traits showed that all chromosomes 2M to 7M had detrimental effects on the agronomic performance of wheat, therefore, the selection of plants with relatively negative effects should be avoided when inducing wheat-A. comosa chromosome translocations using chromosome engineering procedures.
Effect of trans(NO, OH)-[RuFT(Cl)(OH)NO](PF6) ruthenium nitrosyl complex on methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis
Authors: Bocé Mathilde , Tassé Marine , Mallet-Ladeira Sonia , Pillet Flavien , Da Silva Charlotte , Vicendo Patricia , Lacroix Pascal G. , Malfant Isabelle , Rols Marie-Pierre
Published: March 2019

Antibiotic resistance is becoming a global scourge with 700,000 deaths each year and could cause up to 10 million deaths by 2050. As an example, Staphylococcus epidermidis has emerged as a causative agent of infections often associated with implanted medical devices. S. epidermidis can form biofilms, which contribute to its pathogenicity when present in intravascular devices. These staphylococci, embedded in the biofilm matrix, are resistant to methicillin, which had long been the recommended therapy and which has nowadays been replaced by less toxic and more stable therapeutic agents. Moreover, current reports indicate that 75 to 90% of Staphylococcus epidermidis isolates from nosocomial infections are methicillin-resistant strains. The challenge of successfully combating antibiotics resistance in biofilms requires the use of compounds with a controlled mode of action that can act in combination with antibiotics. Ruthenium nitrosyl complexes are potential systems for NO release triggered by light. The influence of trans(NO, OH)-[RuFT(Cl)(OH)NO](PF6) on Staphylococcus epidermidis resistant to methicillin is described. The results show a 50% decrease in cell viability in bacteria treated with low concentrations of NO. When combined with methicillin, this low dose of NO dramatically decreases bacterial resistance and makes bacteria 100-fold more sensitive to methicillin.
Horizontally-acquired genetic elements in the mitochondrial genome of a centrohelid Marophrys sp. SRT127
Authors: Nishimura Yuki , Shiratori Takashi , Ishida Ken-ichiro , Hashimoto Tetsuo , Ohkuma Moriya , Inagaki Yuji
Published: March 2019

Mitochondrial genomes exhibit diverse features among eukaryotes in the aspect of gene content, genome structure, and the mobile genetic elements such as introns and plasmids. Although the number of published mitochondrial genomes is increasing at tremendous speed, those of several lineages remain unexplored. Here, we sequenced the complete mitochondrial genome of a unicellular heterotrophic eukaryote, Marophrys sp. SRT127 belonging to the Centroheliozoa, as the first report on this lineage. The circular-mapped mitochondrial genome, which is 113,062 bp in length, encodes 69 genes typically found in mitochondrial genomes. In addition, the Marophrys mitochondrial genome contains 19 group I introns. Of these, 11 introns have genes for homing endonuclease (HE) and phylogenetic analyses of HEs have shown that at least five Marophrys HEs are related to those in green algal plastid genomes, suggesting intron transfer between the Marophrys mitochondrion and green algal plastids. We also discovered a putative mitochondrial plasmid in linear form. Two genes encoded in the circular-mapped mitochondrial genome were found to share significant similarities to those in the linear plasmid, suggesting that the plasmid was integrated into the mitochondrial genome. These findings expand our knowledge on the diversity and evolution of the mobile genetic elements in mitochondrial genomes.
Cathelicidins PMAP-36, LL-37 and CATH-2 are similar peptides with different modes of action
Authors: Scheenstra Maaike R. , van den Belt Matthias , Tjeerdsma-van Bokhoven Johanna L. M. , Schneider Viktoria A. F. , Ordonez Soledad R. , van Dijk Albert , Veldhuizen Edwin J. A. , Haagsman Henk P.
Published: March 2019

Host defense peptides (HDPs) play a pivotal role in innate immunity and have, in addition to antimicrobial activity, also important immunomodulatory functions. Bacteria are less likely to develop resistance against HDPs because these peptides target and kill bacteria in multiple ways, as well as modulate the immune system. Therefore, HDPs, and derivatives thereof, are promising alternatives to traditional antibiotics. Hardly anything is known about the immunomodulatory functions of porcine cathelicidin PMAP-36. In this study, we aimed to determine both antibacterial and immunomodulatory activities of PMAP-36 comparing the properties of PMAP-36 analogs with two well-studied peptides, human LL-37 and chicken CATH-2. Transmission electron microscopy revealed different killing mechanisms of E. coli for PMAP-36, CATH-2 and LL-37. LL-37 binds LPS very weakly in contrast to PMAP-36, but it inhibits LPS activation of macrophages the strongest. The first 11 amino acids of the N-terminal side of PMAP-36 are dispensable for E. coli killing, LPS-neutralization and binding. Deletion of four additional amino acids resulted in a strong decrease in activity. The activity of full length PMAP-36 was not affected by monomerization, whereas the shorter analogs require dimerization for proper immunomodulatory activity but not for their antibacterial activity.
DNA polymerase ι is acetylated in response to SN2 alkylating agents
Authors: McIntyre Justyna , Sobolewska Aleksandra , Fedorowicz Mikolaj , McLenigan Mary P. , Macias Matylda , Woodgate Roger , Sledziewska-Gojska Ewa
Published: March 2019

DNA polymerase iota (Polι) belongs to the Y-family of DNA polymerases that are involved in DNA damage tolerance through their role in translesion DNA synthesis. Like all other Y-family polymerases, Polι interacts with proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), Rev1, ubiquitin and ubiquitinated-PCNA and is also ubiquitinated itself. Here, we report that Polι also interacts with the p300 acetyltransferase and is acetylated. The primary acetylation site is K550, located in the Rev1-interacting region. However, K550 amino acid substitutions have no effect on Polι’s ability to interact with Rev1. Interestingly, we find that acetylation of Polι significantly and specifically increases in response to SN2 alkylating agents and to a lower extent to SN1 alkylating and oxidative agents. As we have not observed acetylation of Polι’s closest paralogue, DNA polymerase eta (Polη), with which Polι shares many functional similarities, we believe that this modification might exclusively regulate yet to be determined, and separate function(s) of Polι.
The Virtual-Environment-Foraging Task enables rapid training and single-trial metrics of rule acquisition and reversal in head-fixed mice
Authors: Havenith Martha N. , Zijderveld Peter M. , van Heukelum Sabrina , Abghari Shaghayegh , Tiesinga Paul , Glennon Jeffrey C.
Published: March 2019

Behavioural flexibility is an essential survival skill, yet our understanding of its neuronal substrates is still limited. While mouse research offers unique tools to dissect the neuronal circuits involved, the measurement of flexible behaviour in mice often suffers from long training times, poor experimental control, and temporally imprecise binary (hit/miss) performance readouts. Here we present a virtual-environment task for mice that tackles these limitations. It offers fast training of vision-based rule reversals (~100 trials per reversal) with full stimulus control and continuous behavioural readouts. By generating multiple non-binary performance metrics per trial, it provides single-trial estimates not only of response accuracy and speed, but also of underlying processes like choice certainty and alertness (discussed in detail in a companion paper). Based on these metrics, we show that mice can predict new task rules long before they are able to execute them, and that this delay varies across animals. We also provide and validate single-trial estimates of whether an error was committed with or without awareness of the task rule. By tracking in unprecedented detail the cognitive dynamics underlying flexible behaviour, this task enables new investigations into the neuronal interactions that shape behavioural flexibility moment by moment.
Prenatal Allergen Exposure Perturbs Sexual Differentiation and Programs Lifelong Changes in Adult Social and Sexual Behavior
Authors: Lenz Kathryn M. , Pickett Lindsay A. , Wright Christopher L. , Galan Anabel , McCarthy Margaret M.
Published: March 2019

Sexual differentiation is the early life process by which the brain is prepared for male or female typical behaviors, and is directed by sex chromosomes, hormones and early life experiences. We have recently found that innate immune cells residing in the brain, including microglia and mast cells, are more numerous in the male than female rat brain. Neuroimmune cells are also key participants in the sexual differentiation process, specifically organizing the synaptic development of the preoptic area and leading to male-typical sexual behavior in adulthood. Mast cells are known for their roles in allergic responses, thus in this study we sought to determine if exposure to an allergic response of the pregnant female in utero would alter the sexual differentiation of the preoptic area of offspring and resulting sociosexual behavior in later life. Pregnant rats were sensitized to ovalbumin (OVA), bred, and challenged intranasally with OVA on gestational day 15, which produced robust allergic inflammation, as measured by elevated immunoglobulin E. Offspring of these challenged mother rats were assessed relative to control rats in the early neonatal period for mast cell and microglia activation within their brains, downstream dendritic spine patterning on POA neurons, or grown to adulthood to assess behavior and dendritic spines. In utero exposure to allergic inflammation increased mast cell and microglia activation in the neonatal brain, and led to masculinization of dendritic spine density in the female POA. In adulthood, OVA-exposed females showed an increase in male-typical mounting behavior relative to control females. In contrast, OVA-exposed males showed evidence of dysmasculinization, including reduced microglia activation, reduced neonatal dendritic spine density, decreased male-typical copulatory behavior, and decreased olfactory preference for female-typical cues. Together these studies show that early life allergic events may contribute to natural variations in both male and female sexual behavior, potentially via underlying effects on brain-resident mast cells.
Pollen grain morphology is not exclusively responsible for pollen collectability in bumble bees
Authors: Konzmann Sabine , Koethe Sebastian , Lunau Klaus
Published: March 2019

Bee-pollinated plants face a dilemma in that bees both passively transport pollen grains among conspecific flowers and actively collect pollen to feed their larvae. Therefore, mechanisms that reduce pollen collection by bees have evolved in melittophilous plants. Malvaceae pollen is uncollectable for corbiculate bees which has previously been ascribed to pollen size, spines, and pollenkitt. We analysed the influence of pollen grain properties (diameter, spine length, spine density) on the collectability of echinate (spiny) pollen by bumble bees (Bombus terrestris). Workers individually foraging on one of eight plant species from six families performed significantly less pollen foraging on plants which have large, echinate pollen grains. Nevertheless, neither pollen grain size, spine length, nor spine density prove to be an absolute disqualifier for collectability. While pollen foragers did not shift to nectar collection but seized visiting flowers with uncollectable pollen, nectar foragers performed regular foraging bouts on these plants. Pollen that is uncollectable for corbiculate bees limits pollen depletion by generalist bumble bees and probably also honey bees while maintaining them as pollinators, which is an effective solution to the pollen dilemma. As previous assumptions about the impact of pollen morphology on its collectability are disproved, potentially determining factors are discussed.
Effects of Lightning on the Magnetic Properties of Volcanic Ash
Authors: Genareau Kimberly , Hong Yang-Ki , Lee Woncheol , Choi Minyeong , Rostaghi-Chalaki Mojtaba , Gharghabi Pedram , Gafford James , Klüss Joni
Published: March 2019

High-current impulse experiments were performed on volcanic ash samples to determine the magnetic effects that may result from the occurrence of volcanic lightning during explosive eruptions. Pseudo-ash was manufactured through milling and sieving of eruptive deposits with different bulk compositions and mineral contents. By comparing pre- and post-experimental samples, it was found that the saturation (i.e., maximum possible) magnetization increased, and coercivity (i.e., ability to withstand demagnetization) decreased. The increase in saturation magnetization was greater for compositionally evolved samples compared to more primitive samples subjected to equivalent currents. Changes in remanent (i.e., residual) magnetization do not correlate with composition, and show wide variability. Variations in magnetic properties were generally more significant when samples were subjected to higher peak currents as higher currents affect a greater proportion of the subjected sample. The electrons introduced by the current impulse cause reduction and devolatilization of the ash grains, changing their structural, mineralogical, and magnetic properties.
A novel assay for detection and quantification of C-mannosyl tryptophan in normal or diabetic mice
Authors: Sakurai Sho , Inai Yoko , Minakata Shiho , Manabe Shino , Ito Yukishige , Ihara Yoshito
Published: March 2019

C-Mannosyl tryptophan (C-Man-Trp) is a unique molecule in that an α-mannose is connected to the indole C2 carbon atom of a Trp residue via C-glycosidic linkage. Although serum C-Man-Trp may be a novel biomarker of renal function in humans, the biological significance of C-Man-Trp has yet to be fully investigated. In this study, a novel assay system for C-Man-Trp was established using hydrophilic-interaction liquid chromatography, followed by detecting the fluorescence intensity or mass abundance of C-Man-Trp. Using this system, we systematically assessed the amount of free monomeric C-Man-Trp in different tissues of mice. The tissue level of C-Man-Trp was high, especially in the ovaries and uterus. Other organs with high levels of C-Man-Trp included the brain, spleen, lungs, bladder, and testes. The level was low in skeletal muscle. We also investigated whether the tissue level of C-Man-Trp is affected in diabetes. In KK-Ay diabetic mice, the level of urinary C-Man-Trp excretion was increased, and the tissue levels of C-Man-Trp were decreased in the liver but increased in the kidney. These results demonstrate that C-Man-Trp is differentially distributed in numerous tissues and organs in mice, and the levels are altered by disordered carbohydrate metabolism such as diabetes.
CX3CR1-CX3CL1-dependent cell-to-cell Japanese encephalitis virus transmission by human microglial cells
Authors: Lannes Nils , Garcia-Nicolàs Obdullio , Démoulins Thomas , Summerfield Artur , Filgueira Luis
Published: March 2019

The neurotropic Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) is responsible for Japanese encephalitis, an uncontrolled inflammatory disease of the central nervous system. Microglia cells are the unique innate immune cell type populating the brain that cross-communicate with neurons via the CX3CR1-CX3CL1 axis. However, microglia may serve as a viral reservoir for JEV. Human microglia are able to transmit JEV infectivity to neighbouring cells in a cell-to-cell contact-dependent manner. Using JEV-treated human blood monocyte-derived microglia, the present study investigates molecular mechanisms behind cell-to-cell virus transmission by human microglia. For that purpose, JEV-associated microglia were co-cultured with JEV susceptible baby hamster kidney cells under various conditions. Here, we show that microglia hosting JEV for up to 10 days were able to transmit the virus to susceptible cells. Interestingly, neutralizing anti-JEV antibodies did not completely abrogate cell-to-cell virus transmission. Hence, intracellular viral RNA could be a contributing source of infectious virus material upon intercellular interactions. Importantly, the CX3CL1-CX3CR1 axis was a key regulator of cell-to-cell virus transmission from JEV-hosting human microglia. Our findings suggest that human microglia may be a source of infection for neuronal populations and sustain JEV brain pathogenesis in long-term infection. Moreover, the present work emphasizes on the critical role of the CX3CR1-CX3CL1 axis in JEV pathogenesis mediating transmission of infectious genomic JEV RNA.
Characterisation of resistance mechanisms developed by basal cell carcinoma cells in response to repeated cycles of Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Lucena Silvia Rocio , Zamarrón Alicia , Carrasco Elisa , Marigil Miguel Angel , Mascaraque Marta , Fernández-Guarino Montserrat , Gilaberte Yolanda , González Salvador , Juarranz Angeles
Published: March 2019

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) with methyl-aminolevulinate acid (MAL-PDT) is being used for the treatment of Basal cell carcinoma (BCC), but recurrences have been reported. In this work, we have evaluated resistance mechanisms to MAL-PDT developed by three BCC cell lines (ASZ, BSZ and CSZ), derived from mice on a ptch+/− background and with or without p53 expression, subjected to 10 cycles of PDT (10thG). The resistant populations showed mesenchymal-like structure and diminished proliferative capacity and size compared to the parental (P) cells. The resistance was dependent on the production of the endogenous photosensitiser protoporphyrin IX in the CSZ cell line and on its cellular localisation in ASZ and BSZ cells. Moreover, resistant cells expressing the p53 gene presented lower proliferation rate and increased expression levels of N-cadherin and Gsk3β (a component of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway) than P cells. In contrast, 10thG cells lacking the p53 gene showed lower levels of expression of Gsk3β in the cytoplasm and of E-cadherin and β-catenin in the membrane. In addition, resistant cells presented higher tumorigenic ability in immunosuppressed mice. Altogether, these results shed light on resistance mechanisms of BCC to PDT and may help to improve the use of this therapeutic approach.
Hybrid quantum linear equation algorithm and its experimental test on IBM Quantum Experience
Authors: Lee Yonghae , Joo Jaewoo , Lee Soojoon
Published: March 2019

We propose a hybrid quantum algorithm based on the Harrow-Hassidim-Lloyd (HHL) algorithm for solving a system of linear equations. In this paper, we show that our hybrid algorithm can reduce a circuit depth from the original HHL algorithm by means of a classical information feed-forward after the quantum phase estimation algorithm, and the results of the hybrid algorithm are identical to those of the HHL algorithm. In addition, it is experimentally examined with four qubits in the IBM Quantum Experience setups, and the experimental results of our algorithm show higher accurate performance on specific systems of linear equations than that of the HHL algorithm.
Association between Helicobacter pylori infection and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in North Chinese: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Jiang Tian , Chen Xia , Xia Chenmei , Liu Huamin , Yan Haifan , Wang Guoping , Wu Zhongbiao
Published: March 2019

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common liver disease. Previous studies on the association betweenHelicobacter pylori(HP) infection and NAFLD are inconsistent. Our study was aimed to find out the relationship between HP infection and NAFLD. We performed a large cross-sectional study in northern Chinese adults in 2015.13C-urea breath tests were used to determine HP infection status. Abdominal ultrasonography was performed to diagnose NAFLD. Multivariable logistic regression was conducted to identify the association between HP infection and NAFLD. A total of 4081 individuals were included in this study; 2137 (52.36%) participants were HP-positive, and 1022 (47.82%) were diagnosed with NAFLD in HP-positive individuals. The odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of participants with HP infection for NAFLD were 1.20 (1.06–1.36) in crude model and 1.27 (1.07–1.50) in fully adjusted model. When stratified by sex and dyslipidemia, the fully adjusted OR and 95% CI for NAFLD were 1.22 (1.10–1.80) in females and 1.44 (1.18–1.75) in subjects with dyslipidemia. There were not significant increased OR for NAFLD when stratified by age. The study indicate that HP infection is associated with NAFLD, particularly in females and patients with dyslipidemia, suggesting that HP eradication might be an alternative method for the prevention or treatment of NAFLD treatment.
WO3 in suit embed into MIL-101 for enhancement charge carrier separation of photocatalyst
Authors: Wang Linjuan , Zan Ling
Published: March 2019

Compositing nanoparticles photo-catalyst with enormous surface areas metal–organic framework (MOF) will greatly improve photocatalytic performances. Herein, WO3nanoparticles are partly embedded into pores of MIL-101 or only supported on the outside of representative MIL-101, which were defined as embedded structure WO3@MIL-101@WO3and coating structure WO3&MIL-101 respectively. Different pH, concentration and loading percentage were researched. XRD, TEM and BET were carried to analyze the composites. Compared with the pristine WO3, all WO3loaded MOF nanocomposites exhibited remarkable enhancing for the efficiency of photocatalytic degradation methylene blue under visible light. Their activity of the same loading percentage WO3in embedded structure and coating structure have increased for 9 and 3 times respectively compared with pure WO3. The WO3@MIL-101@WO3has 3 times higher efficiency than WO3&MIL-101, because the shorter electron-transport distance can make a contribution to electron–hole separation. The further mechanism involved has been investigated by radical quantify experiment, XPS and photoluminescence spectroscopy.
Grammatical class modulates the (left) inferior frontal gyrus within 100 milliseconds when syntactic context is predictive
Authors: Strijkers Kristof , Chanoine Valerie , Munding Dashiel , Dubarry Anne-Sophie , Trébuchon Agnès , Badier Jean-Michel , Alario F.-Xavier
Published: March 2019

The current study set out to examine the spatiotemporal dynamics of predictive processing during syntactic processing. To do so, we conducted an MEG experiment in which we contrasted MRI-constrained sources elicited by nouns and verbs when they were preceded by a predictive syntactic context (i.e., possessive pronouns for nouns, and personal pronouns for verbs) versus a non-predictive syntactic context (visually matched symbols). The results showed rapid (from ~80 ms onwards) noun-verb differences in the left and (to a lesser extent) right inferior frontal gyri (IFG), but only when those nouns and verbs were preceded by the syntactically predictive context (i.e. their corresponding pronoun). Furthermore, the contrast between possessive and personal pronouns that preceded the rapid noun-verb modulations in the (L)IFG also produced differences in source activation in various regions of the prefrontal cortex (the superior frontal and orbitofrontal cortex). We suggest the data show that syntactic unification manifests very early on during processing in the LIFG. The speed of such syntactic unification operations is hypothesized to be driven by predictive top-down activations stemming from a domain-general network in the prefrontal cortex.
Combined Raman and polarization sensitive holographic imaging for a multimodal label-free assessment of human sperm function
Authors: De Angelis Annalisa , Ferrara Maria Antonietta , Coppola Gianfranco , Di Matteo Loredana , Siani Laura , Dale Brian , Coppola Giuseppe , De Luca Anna Chiara
Published: March 2019

Raman microspectroscopy (RM) and polarization sensitive digital holographic imaging (PSDHI) are valuable analytical tools in biological and medical research, allowing the detection of both biochemical and morphological variations of the sample without labels or long sample preparation. Here, using this multi-modal approach we analyze in vitro human sperm capacitation and the acrosome reaction induced by heparin. The multimodal microscopy provides morphofunctional information that can assess the sperms ability to respond to capacitation stimuli (sperm function). More precisely, the birefringence analysis in sperm cells can be used as an indicator of its structural normality. Indeed, digital holography applied for polarization imaging allows for revelation of the polarization state of the sample, showing a total birefringence of the sperm head in non-reacted spermatozoa, and a birefringence localized in the post-acrosomal region in reacted spermatozoa. Additionally, RM allows the detection and spectroscopic characterization of protein/lipid delocalization in the plasma and acrosomal membranes that can be used as valuable Raman biomarkers of sperm function. Interestingly, these spectral variations can be correlated with different time phases of the cell capacitation response. Although further experimentation is required, the proposed multimodal approach could represent a potential label-free diagnostic tool for use in reproductive medicine and the diagnosis of infertility.
Anti-HIV-1 integrase potency of methylgallate from Alchornea cordifolia using in vitro and in silico approaches
Authors: Siwe-Noundou Xavier , Musyoka Thommas M. , Moses Vuyani , Ndinteh Derek T. , Mnkandhla Dumisani , Hoppe Heinrich , Tastan Bishop Özlem , Krause Rui W. M.
Published: March 2019

According to the 2018 report of the United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), a disease caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), remains a significant public health problem. The non-existence of a cure or effective vaccine for the disease and the associated emergence of resistant viral strains imply an urgent need for the discovery of novel anti-HIV drug candidates. The current study aimed to identify potential anti-retroviral compounds fromAlchornea cordifolia. Bioactive compounds were identified using several chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques and subsequently evaluated for cytotoxicity and anti-HIV properties. Molecular modelling studies against HIV-1 integrase (HIV-1 IN) were performed to decipher the mode of action of methylgallate, the most potent compound (IC50 = 3.7 nM) and its analogues from ZINC database. Cytotoxicity assays showed that neither the isolated compounds nor the crude methanolic extract displayed cytotoxicity effects on the HeLa cell line. A strong correlation between thein vitroandin silicoresults was observed and important HIV-1 IN residues interacting with the different compounds were identified. These current results indicate that methylgallate is the main anti-HIV-1 compound inA. cordifoliastem bark, and could be a potential platform for the development of new HIV-1 IN inhibitors.
Estimation of Soil Erosion to Define the Slope Length of Newly Reconstructed Gentle-Slope Lands in Hilly Mountainous Regions
Authors: Han Zhen , Zhong Shouqin , Ni Jiupai , Shi Zhonglin , Wei Chaofu
Published: March 2019

Farming plot construction engineering in hilly areas plays an important role in the mechanization, large-scale production and industrialization of agriculture. The method is undertaken to improve water and soil conservation, enhance soil fertility and extend machinery agriculture. However, the positive effects of engineering require years to mature. The properties of newly reconstructed soil are not sufficient, i.e., with poor structure and low water holding capacity, resulting in deterioration of its physical properties and erosion. To date, most studies on plot characteristics and soil properties in farming plot construction engineering have neglected the influence of soil erosion. This paper addresses soil erosion characteristics at sites to define the appropriate slope length for newly reconstructed gentle-slope lands. Six field plots with a 10° slope gradient and different lengths (5, 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 m) were established under natural rainfall and simulated overland flow conditions. The soil detachment rate, runoff shear stress and stream power exhibited the same trends as runoff and soil loss. The soil erosion characteristics varied at sites with different slope lengths, and the degree of soil erosion reached its minimum on gentle-slope land sites of 30 or 40 m. Therefore, 30–40 m slope lengths may be the recommended range to control soil loss from newly reconstructed gentle-slope lands. The conclusions of this study provide theoretical guidance for farming plot construction engineering, which can promote the sustainable development of cultivated land resources in hilly mountainous regions.
Synthesis of Ag/NiO Honeycomb Structured Nanoarrays as the Electrode Material for High Performance Asymmetric Supercapacitor Devices
Authors: Nagamuthu Sadayappan , Ryu Kwang-Sun
Published: March 2019

Metallic silver nickel oxide honeycomb nanoarrays were synthesized via a surfactant-assisted hydrothermal route. The crystal structure of the Ag/NiO nanoarrays was confirmed by X-ray diffraction. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirmed the valance state of the nickel, oxygen, and metallic silver. The morphological studies and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy revealed the honeycomb structured nanoarrays and the elemental distribution of the prepared sample, respectively. The three-electrode measurements showed that the Ag/NiO nanoarray is a suitable electrode material for supercapacitor applications, which delivers the maximum specific capacity of 824 C g−1 at a specific current of 2.5 A g−1. An Ag/NiO positive electrode-based asymmetric device was fabricated and tested. The asymmetric device yielded a high specific cell capacity of 204 C g−1 at a specific current of 2.5 A g−1 as well as a maximum energy density of 63.75 W h kg−1 at a power density of 2812.5 W kg−1. These results are comparable to those of (NiMH) metal hydride batteries.
CRISPR/Cas9 – An evolving biological tool kit for cancer biology and oncology
Authors: Tian Xueli , Gu Tingxuan , Patel Satyananda , Bode Ann M. , Lee Mee-Hyun , Dong Zigang
Published: March 2019

The development of genetic engineering in the 1970s marked a new frontier in genome-editing technology. Gene-editing technologies have provided a plethora of benefits to the life sciences. The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/CRISPR associated protein 9 (CRISPR/ Cas9) system is a versatile technology that provides the ability to add or remove DNA in the genome in a sequence-specific manner. Serious efforts are underway to improve the efficiency of CRISPR/Cas9 targeting and thus reduce off-target effects. Currently, various applications of CRISPR/Cas9 are used in cancer biology and oncology to perform robust site-specific gene editing, thereby becoming more useful for biological and clinical applications. Many variants and applications of CRISPR/Cas9 are being rapidly developed. Experimental approaches that are based on CRISPR technology have created a very promising tool that is inexpensive and simple for developing effective cancer therapeutics. This review discusses diverse applications of CRISPR-based gene-editing tools in oncology and potential future cancer therapies.
Development of a convenient method for the determination of dimethyl sulfoxide in lyophilised pharmaceuticals by static headspace gas chromatography-mass spectrometry
Authors: Müller Christoph , Wagner Antonie L. , Rockinger Ute , Winter Gerhard , Bracher Franz
Published: March 2019

A reliable and validated static headspace method for the determination of DMSO in lyophilised products.
A self-assembled DNA-nanoparticle with a targeting peptide for hypoxia-inducible gene therapy of ischemic stroke
Authors: Oh Jungju , Lee Jaewon , Piao Chunxian , Jeong Ji Hoon , Lee Minhyung
Published: March 2019

A self-assembled nanoparticle composed of hypoxia-specific anti-RAGE peptide (HSAP), heme oxygenase-1 plasmid (pHO1), and deoxycholate-conjugated polyethylenimine-2k (DP2k) was developed for ischemic stroke therapy.
Mineral plastic hydrogels from the cross-linking of polyacrylic acid and alkaline earth or transition metal ions
Authors: Schupp David J. , Zhang Xiaotong , Sun Shengtong , Cölfen Helmut
Published: March 2019

Based on ‘Mineral Plastics’, organic–inorganic hybrid hydrogels were synthesized by utilization of different metal ions and pH-values.
Reversible high temperature dielectric switching in a 2H-perovskite compound: [Me3NCH2CH3]CdCl3
Authors: Sun Dong-Sheng , Zhang Yao-Zu , Gao Ji-Xing , Hua Xiu-Ni , Chen Xiao-Gang , Mei Guang-Quan , Liao Wei-Qiang
Published: March 2019

A new organic–inorganic 2H-perovskite compound shows a noteworthy switchable dielectric phase transition at high temperature.
AC electrokinetic biased deterministic lateral displacement for tunable particle separation
Authors: Calero Victor , Garcia-Sanchez Pablo , Honrado Carlos , Ramos Antonio , Morgan Hywel
Published: March 2019

We describe a novel particle separation technique that combines deterministic lateral displacement (DLD) with orthogonal electrokinetic forces to separate particles below the critical diameter.
Exploring T-carbon for energy applications
Authors: Qin Guangzhao , Hao Kuan-Rong , Yan Qing-Bo , Hu Ming , Su Gang
Published: March 2019

T-carbon is a theoretically predicted but also a recently experimentally synthesized carbon allotrope, which is a promising material for next-generation energy applications. Due to its unique and fantastic properties, T-carbon can be potentially used in thermoelectrics, hydrogen storage, lithium ion batteries, etc.
The (CF3C(O)NH)(C6H5CH2NH)2P(O) phosphoric triamide as a novel carrier with excellent efficiency for Cu(ii) in a liquid membrane transport system
Authors: Akbari Setareh , Khoshnood Razieh Sanavi , Ahmadabad Fatemeh Karimi , Pourayoubi Mehrdad , Dušek Michal , Shchegravina Ekaterina S.
Published: March 2019

Selective transport of Cu(ii) cation in the presence of six other cations across a bulk liquid membrane containing a novel phosphoric triamide carrier is studied.
Mechanistic investigation of CO generation by pyrolysis of furan and its main derivatives
Authors: Sun Baizhong , Liang Honglin , Che Deyong , Liu Hongpeng , Guo Shuai
Published: March 2019

Quantum chemical theory has been used to study the furan and its derivatives pyrolysis reaction, nine possible reaction pathways has been studied. Results show that decarbonylation of CO after ring opening is easier than direct decarbonylation.
Dehydration of fructose, sucrose and inulin to 5-hydroxymethylfurfural over yeast-derived carbonaceous microspheres at low temperatures
Authors: Li Xiaofeng , Wang Yi , Xie Xiaomin , Huang Changhong , Yang Sen
Published: March 2019

This work prepared carbonaceous microspheres by hydrothermal carbonization of yeast cells followed by sulfonation with concentrated sulphuric acid (98%) at room temperature.
Synthesis of lamellarin alkaloids using orthoester-masked α-keto acids
Authors: Shirley Harry J. , Koyioni Maria , Muncan Filip , Donohoe Timothy J.
Published: March 2019

Enolate arylation of a protected pyruvate is used as a key step in the short and efficient syntheses of the lamellarins.
Nanoscale hyperspectral imaging of tilted cholesteric liquid crystal structures
Authors: Jullien Aurélie , Scarangella Adriana , Bortolozzo Umberto , Residori Stefania , Mitov Michel
Published: March 2019

In tilted cholesteric liquid crystals, hyperspectral imaging reveals the correlation between the bandgap spectral properties and spatial twists.
Facile synthesis of orange emissive carbon dots and their application for mercury ion detection and fast fingerprint development
Authors: Tang Mingyu , Ren Guojuan , Zhu Baoya , Yu Liying , Liu Xiaodong , Chai Fang , Wu Hongbo , Wang Chungang
Published: March 2019

In this paper, orange emitting carbon dots (CDs) were synthesized by a hydrothermal process, and the CDs shown good behavior in detection for Hg2+, development of LFPs, cell imaging, test paper and films.
Electrochemical detection of oxacillin resistance with SimpleStat: a low cost integrated potentiostat and sensor platform
Authors: Butterworth Adrian , Corrigan Damion K. , Ward Andrew C.
Published: March 2019

Testing outside the laboratory environment, such as point of care testing, is a rapidly evolving area with advances in the integration of sample handling, measurement and sensing elements widely reported.
Three-component difluoroalkylation–thiolation of alkenes by iron-facilitated visible-light photoredox catalysis
Authors: Xu Rui , Cai Chun
Published: March 2019

The first difluoroalkylation–thiolation of alkenes catalyzed by iron-facilitated photoredox has been developed with a broad substrate scope under mild conditions.
A dual chromophore sensor for the detection of amines, diols, hydroxy acids, and amino alcohols
Authors: Pushina Mariia , Farshbaf Sepideh , Shcherbakova Elena G. , Anzenbacher Pavel
Published: March 2019

The determination of enantiomeric excess (ee) in various groups of chiral compounds, namely amines, amino alcohols, diols, and hydroxy acids is performed using a dual chromophore FRET/PET based sensor ensemble.
Chalcogen-substitution modulated supramolecular chirality and gas sensing properties in perylenediimides
Authors: Deng Qingyuan , Zhou Enbao , Huang Yongwei , Qing Weixia , Zhai Haiyan , Liu Zhonghua , Wei Zhixiang
Published: March 2019

The supramolecular helicity and gas response of perylene dyes can be well modulated by chalcogen atoms in the perylene core.
A cucurbituril/polysaccharide/carbazole ternary supramolecular assembly for targeted cell imaging
Authors: Wu Xuan , Chen Yong , Yu Qilin , Li Feng-Qing , Liu Yu
Published: March 2019

A ternary supramolecular assembly with near-infrared lysosome imaging and targeted photodynamic therapy properties was successfully orthogonally constructed in a two-step assembly manner.
Correction: Selective synthesis of single layer translucent cobalt hydroxide for the efficient oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Jash Priyajit , Paul Amit
Published: March 2019

Correction for ‘Selective synthesis of single layer translucent cobalt hydroxide for the efficient oxygen evolution reaction’ by Priyajit Jash et al., Chem. Commun., 2019, 55, 2230–2233.
M2(SeO3)F2 (M = Zn, Cd): understanding the structure directing effect of [SeO3]2− groups on constructing ordered oxyfluorides
Authors: You Fengguang , Gong Pifu , Liang Fei , Jiang Xingxing , Tu Heng , Zhao Ying , Hu Zhanggui , Lin Zheshuai
Published: March 2019

The structure directing effect of [SeO3]2− anionic groups play a crucial role in the configuration of ordered [MO3F3] octahedral and its large anisotropy.
Enantiomeric pairs of ternary copper(ii) complexes and their aldol-type condensation products: synthesis, characterization, and anticancer and epigenetic properties
Authors: Lee Khei Yan , Ng Yi Ling , Wang Wai San , Ng Pei Ying , Chan Cheang Wei , Lai Jing Wei , Davamani Fabian , Chitra Ebenezer , Lim Wei Meng , Ganguly Rakesh , Maah Mohd Jamil , Yip Foo Win , Ng Chew Hee
Published: March 2019

The complexes induced apoptosis via ROS production, drop in mitochondrial membrane potential and epigenetic changes.
Laser printing-enabled direct creation of cellular heterogeneity in lab-on-a-chip devices
Authors: Xiong Ruitong , Chai Wenxuan , Huang Yong
Published: March 2019

Laser-induced forward transfer for printing of cellular heterogeneity in organ-on-a-chip devices.
Semi-automated on-demand control of individual droplets with a sample application to a drug screening assay
Authors: Hébert Marie , Courtney Matthew , Ren Carolyn L.
Published: March 2019

Automated control of individual droplets in microfluidic channels offers tremendous potential for applications requiring high accuracy and minimal user involvement.
Targeting S. mutans biofilms: a perspective on preventing dental caries
Authors: Scharnow Amber M. , Solinski Amy E. , Wuest William M.
Published: March 2019

This review aims to provide an overview of the current small molecule strategies used for targeting S. mutans biofilms, and a perspective of the future for the field.
4D printing reconfigurable, deployable and mechanically tunable metamaterials
Authors: Yang Chen , Boorugu Manish , Dopp Andrew , Ren Jie , Martin Raymond , Han Daehoon , Choi Wonjoon , Lee Howon
Published: March 2019

Digital 3D printing with a shape memory polymer is utilized to create mechanical metamaterials exhibiting dramatic and reversible changes in stiffness, geometry, and functions.
Spatioselective functionalization of gold nanopillar arrays
Authors: Chattaway Claire , Magnin Delphine , Ferain Etienne , Demoustier-Champagne Sophie , Glinel Karine
Published: March 2019

Fabrication of gold nanopillar arrays with spatioselective surface functionalization.
A novel near-infrared fluorescent hydrogen sulfide probe for live cell and tissue imaging
Authors: Huang Xiaoting , Liu Haiyang , Zhang Jiewen , Xiao Boren , Wu Fengxu , Zhang Yueying , Tan Ying , Jiang Yuyang
Published: March 2019

A novel sensitive near-infrared fluorescence enhanced NIR-NP probe with a large Stokes shift for H2S analysis was developed.
A superhydrophobic and elastic melamine sponge for oil/water separation
Authors: Zhang Ying , Zhang Qian , Zhang Ruiyang , Liu Shuaizhuo , Zhou Ying
Published: March 2019

The leakage of industrial oil and organic solvents can wreak great harm to the environment and ecology.
Energy transfer from Er to Nd ions by the thermal effect and promotion of the photocatalysis of the NaYF4:Yb,Er,Nd/W18O49 heterostructure
Authors: Bao Yanan , Zhang Zhenyi , Cao Baosheng , Liu Yang , Shang Jingyu , Yang Yang , Dong Bin
Published: March 2019

Thermal induced energy transfer from Er to Nd ions can effectively improve the localized surface plasmon resonance effect and enhance the photocatalytic performance of NaYF4:Yb,Er,Nd/W18O49 heterostructure.
Structural insights into semicrystalline states of electrospun nanofibers: a multiscale analytical approach
Authors: Maurya Anjani K. , Weidenbacher Lukas , Spano Fabrizio , Fortunato Giuseppino , Rossi René M. , Frenz Martin , Dommann Alex , Neels Antonia , Sadeghpour Amin
Published: March 2019

For potential applications in the biomedical domain, we report a comprehensive roadmap towards structural hierarchy and anisotropy in electrospun fibers based on scattering and diffraction studies.
Synthesis of Au nanorod-embedded and graphene oxide-wrapped microporous ZIF-8 with high electrocatalytic activity for the sensing of pesticides
Authors: Gan Tian , Li Jiebin , Li Hanxiao , Liu Yangxiao , Xu Zhihong
Published: March 2019

Graphene oxide (GO) reinforced Au nanorods@ZIF-8 (AuNRs@ZIF-8) was developed for electrochemical sensing of pesticides with high sensitivity and good stability.
Correction: Peptide-directed encapsulation of inorganic nanoparticles into protein containers
Authors: Künzle Matthias , Mangler Johanna , Lach Marcel , Beck Tobias
Published: March 2019

Correction for ‘Peptide-directed encapsulation of inorganic nanoparticles into protein containers’ by Tobias Beck et al., Nanoscale, 2018, 10, 22917–22926.
Hybrid copolymerization via mechanism interconversion between radical vinyl-addition and anion ring-opening polymerization
Authors: Zhang Ze , Xia Lei , Zeng Tian-You , Wu De-Cheng , Zhang Wen-Jian , Hong Chun-Yan , You Ye-Zi
Published: March 2019

Here, we report a new hybrid copolymerization via an interconvertible living free radical and anion ring-opening polymerization mechanism, in which the copolymerization of cyclic monomers and vinyl-type monomers can be achieved.
Incorporation of bifunctional aminopyridine into an NbO-type MOF for the markedly enhanced adsorption of CO2 and C2H2 over CH4
Authors: He Minghui , Xu Tingting , Jiang Zhenzhen , Yang Luyao , Zou Ying , Xia Fengjie , Wang Xia , Wang Xiaojuan , He Yabing
Published: March 2019

An NbO-type MOF based on an aminopyridine-heterobifunctionalized diisophthalate linker was synthesized, displaying markedly enhanced C2H2 and CO2 adsorption over CH4 compared to its parent compound.
Catalyst-free oxidative N–N coupling for the synthesis of 1,2,3-triazole compounds withtBuONO
Authors: Cai Yue-Ming , Zhang Xin , An Cui , Yang Ye-Fei , Liu Wei , Gao Wen-Xia , Huang Xiao-Bo , Zhou Yun-Bing , Liu Miao-Chang , Wu Hua-Yue
Published: March 2019

A catalyst-free oxidative N–N coupling withtBuONO has been developed for the synthesis of 1,2,3-triazole compounds.
Photocatalytic activity of Ni0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4@polyaniline decorated BiOCl for azo dye degradation under visible light – integrated role and degradation kinetics interpretation
Authors: Tanwar Ruchika , Mandal Uttam Kumar
Published: March 2019

The photocatalytic activity of BiOCl is tuned through heterogeneous decoration with an integrated Ni0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4@polyaniline. The outstanding degradation capacity, effects of parameters on degradation kinetics and a kinetic model using regression analysis is reported.
An integrated microchannel biosensor platform to analyse low density lactate metabolism in HepG2 cells in vitro
Authors: Mi Shengli , Xia Jingjing , Xu Yuanyuan , Du Zhichang , Sun Wei
Published: March 2019

In this study, we developed an electrochemical microchannel biosensor platform to analyse lactate metabolism in cells.
Doubly spin-labeled nanodiscs to improve structural determination of membrane proteins by ESR
Authors: Li Chieh-Chin , Hung Chien-Lun , Yeh Pei-Shan , Li Chi-En , Chiang Yun-Wei
Published: March 2019

Spin-labeled nanodiscs improve DEER distance measurement of membrane proteins.