bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dopamine Metabolism and the Generation of a Reactive Aldehyde
Authors: Schamp Josephine H. , Doorn Jonathan A.
Published: July 2017

Dopamine (DA) is a monoamine neurotransmitter important for the control of movement. When not sequestered in vesicles, DA is metabolized by monoamine oxidase (MAO) to 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetaldehyde (DOPAL), which can further undergo metabolism by aldehyde dehydrogenases (ALDH) and aldehyde/aldose reductases (AR) to 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid, and 3,4-dihydroxyphenylethanol, respectively. Other monoamines such as norepinephrine and serotonin also are metabolized by MAO, yielding biogenic aldehydes. DOPAL has been shown to be toxic to dopaminergic cells at levels close to those measured for physiologic conditions. Generation of the DA-derived aldehyde at aberrant levels could be due to several mechanisms, including: inhibition of ALDH and AR via oxidative stress products, impairment of DA trafficking, and direct inhibition of carbonyl metabolism. Models of altered DA metabolism or trafficking demonstrate toxic endpoints and/or progressive loss of DA neurons, indicating that proper DA metabolism and trafficking is critical for health of DA neurons. DOPAL is a highly reactive aldehyde intermediate that modifies proteins and causes protein aggregation. In addition, the DA-derived aldehyde can auto-oxidize to a quinone, producing reactive oxygen species (ROS), and generates ROS during the reaction with proteins. Given such evidence, DOPAL is hypothesized to be an endogenous neurotoxin and mechanistic link between exposure or insults and conditions relevant to neurodegenerative disease.
Dopamine Oxidation and Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Barrett Caitlyn W. , Bucher Meghan L. , Hastings Teresa G.
Published: July 2017

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease in which oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction are thought to play substantial roles. The focus of this chapter is to link oxidative stress, mitochondrial health, and PD. These links will provide evidence for the selective loss of dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra (SN) pars compacta, a loss that is the primary pathological hallmark of PD. The principle neurotransmitter in dopaminergic neurons is the catecholamine dopamine (DA). Normal enzymatic catabolism of DA is capable of forming hydrogen peroxide, which increases basal reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. Moreover, cytosolic DA is also capable of enzyme-catalyzed oxidation and auto-oxidation, which creates highly reactive dopamine quinone (DA-quinone). Due to the reactive nature of DA, nigral dopaminergic neurons are already vulnerable to damage, which can be exacerbated by oxidative stress, amplifying the detrimental effects of DA. This may establish a vicious cycle of ROS production and DA oxidation that plays a significant role in dopaminergic neuron degeneration in PD. This chapter will explore the DA oxidation pathways and the impact of DA oxidation on protein function, mitochondrial activity, and ultimately the health of the cell and organism.
Neuroinflammation and Oxidative Stress in Models of Parkinson’s Disease and Protein-Misfolding Disorders
Authors: Tjalkens Ronald B. , Streifel Karin M. , Moreno Julie A.
Published: July 2017

Numerous mechanisms are implicated in the etiology of sporadic Parkinson’s disease (PD) including protein misfolding, oxidative stress and neuroinflammation, which contribute to the loss of dopaminergic neurons. Activation of glial cells exacerbates each of these mechanisms and there are currently no therapeutic agents that prevent damaging neuroinflammatory responses in microglia and astrocytes. Microglia are the resident macrophages of the CNS and can activate astrocytes, which are important for regulation of cerebral blood flow and neuronal metabolic homeostasis. Activated microglia and astrocytes strongly influence mechanisms of injury relevant to PD and are the primary sources of inflammatory and oxidative factors in the CNS. Glial cells can be activated endogenous and exogenous toxicants, as well as by misfolded proteins and other signals of neuronal stress. In animal models of PD and protein-misfolding disorders, oxidative and inflammatory mediators are produced and have been shown to induce loss of dopaminergic neurons. Delineating the molecular mechanisms that control the production of inflammatory and oxidative mediators from glial cells could provide new targets for therapeutic intervention to slow neurodegeneration relevant to PD and other disorders.
Redox Signalling in Dopaminergic Cell Death and Survival
Authors: Ray Ajit , Verma Aditi , Ravindranath Vijayalakshmi
Published: July 2017

Oxidative stress has been demonstrated to be a key pathogenic mechanism for the relatively selective degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in substantia nigra pars compacta seen in Parkinson's disease. But, it remains to be fully resolved how pathological features as widespread and generalized as oxidative stress can lead to cell-specific changes. This can potentially occur if specific cell-signalling pathways are triggered in response to oxidative stress only in certain cells, culminating in neuronal death. In this chapter, we discuss how dopaminergic neurons are more susceptible to oxidative stress and reactive oxygen species generation due to their cellular and molecular phenotype, and by putative mechanisms of redox-regulated repression of the Akt cell survival signalling pathway and activation of the ASK1 death signalling pathway. We present evidence from cell culture and animal models and in autopsy samples from Parkinson's disease patients. Future studies are needed to determine how these pathways interact with other Parkinson's disease associated pathological mechanisms to give us a more comprehensive understanding of the disease process.
Iron Metabolism in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Gao Guofen , You Lin-Hao , Chang Yan-Zhong
Published: July 2017

In the central nervous system, iron is involved in many biologically important processes such as oxygen transport and storage, electron transport, energy metabolism, and antioxidant and DNA synthesis. Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disease characterized by loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. Extensive research has reported that iron is heavily accumulated in the dopaminergic neurons in substantia nigra (SN) of PD patients. Changes in the expression of key iron transporters have also been observed in PD patients. Excessive iron accumulation can induce neuronal damage through reactive oxygen species production, which can cause oxidative stress increased membrane lipid peroxidation, DNA damage and protein oxidation and misfolding. This chapter provides a review about brain iron metabolism in PD, the role of iron transporters expression and function on brain iron homeostasis and distribution of intracellular iron. This knowledge will be of benefit to novel therapeutic targets for PD.
Protein Oxidation, Quality-Control Mechanisms and Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Hernandez-Franco Pablo , Anandhan Annadurai , Franco Rodrigo
Published: July 2017

Proteostasis is defined as the integrated mechanisms within cells that control protein biogenesis, folding, trafficking and degradation. The integrity of the proteome is essential for cellular homeostasis, function and survival and is continuously challenged under both physiological and pathological conditions. Cells have evolved a complex and hierarchical array of processes called protein quality control mechanisms to ensure protein integrity that include chaperones and protein sorting/segregation and degradation pathways. Protein quality control starts even before protein synthesis and continues throughout their ‘lifespan’. Accumulation of misfolded protein aggregates is a hallmark in Parkinson’s disease (PD). The loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra is linked to the presence of intraneuronal inclusions called Lewy bodies (LBs). Alterations in protein quality control mechanisms involved in protein folding and clearance of misfolded protein aggregates are linked to the pathogenesis of PD. In this chapter, we will review the proposed mechanisms by which PD risk factors (aging, genetics and environmental exposures) promote protein misfolding and aggregation and impair protein quality control mechanisms. Special emphasis will be placed in the role of oxidative stress in the dysfunction in the chaperone network, the ubiquitin-proteasome (UPS) and the autophagosome-lysosome system in PD.
Genes, Aging, and Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Milanese Chiara , Mastroberardino Pier G.
Published: July 2017

Aging is the principal risk factor for Parkinson’s disease (PD). The importance of the genetic and environmental factors influencing natural aging for PD etiopathogenesis, however, is dimly understood. Our knowledge about the extent of overlap between elements predisposing to PD or to aging, and their eventual interplay, is particularly rudimentary. This section illustrates the principal studies describing the relevance of the genetic background for aging as well as the unique challenges intrinsic to these investigations and their consequences on the interpretation of the findings. It also elaborates on the principal genes identified as aging modifiers in human studies and in laboratory animals. The chapter contextualizes these elements in the etiopathology of PD and discusses their potential relevance for the principal molecular mechanisms underlying this disorder. Finally, we propose and discuss possible avenues for future studies indispensable to elucidate the complex interplay between natural aging and PD.
Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Fernández Emilio
Published: July 2017

Searching for biomarkers of neurodegenerative diseases is an active field of research. Regarding Parkinson’s disease, a good sensitivity biomarker is urgently needed because neuroprotective agents could be of benefit for patients if given early during the premotor phase. Oxidative stress, defined as an imbalance between the production of reactive oxidative species and antioxidant mechanisms, is considered an important pathogenic mechanism in Parkinson’s disease. New biomarkers could be found analyzing molecules that are specifically altered by oxidative insults, and biomarkers should be better searched in peripheral fluids such as blood and cerebrospinal fluid because, in contrast to neural tissue, they are easily accessible fluids. Molecular changes are caused by oxidative reactions induced by reactive species, including peroxidation, halogenation, glycation, carbonylation, methionine oxidation, nitration and S-nitros(yl)ation. Several biomarkers related to the action of these reactive species have been proposed or are under investigation. Among these potential biomarkers, α-synuclein and its oxidative modifications represent a promising field of research. A combination of biomarkers (‘multiple biomarker’) has been proposed to better account for the pathogenic heterogeneity of Parkinson’s disease. The discovery of these new biomarkers would improve the knowledge and treatment of Parkinson’s disease.
Dietary Anti-, Pro-Oxidants in the Etiology of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Agim Zeynep Sena , Cannon Jason R.
Published: July 2017

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease. Currently there are no effective curative or disease-modifying treatments available. The vast majority of cases are not directly attributable to inherited factors, suggesting that environmental factors play a crucial role in modulating predisposition to the disease. Dietary factors are the most frequently encountered environmental factors throughout life. Various natural components of the diet, including fatty acids and trace minerals, have been shown to modulate PD risk. Further, byproducts generated during high-temperature cooking in meat preparation (e.g. heterocyclic amines) are the focus of emerging neurodegenerative disease research. While some specific dietary factors could increase PD risk, several others have been identified as potential neuroprotective agents. Polyphenols and several vitamins in the human diet are potent antioxidants. In addition to antioxidant potency, dietary factors are often found to regulate neuroinflammation, metal toxicity, and many signalling pathways, including cell survival and apoptosis. In this chapter, we examine the potential role of heterocyclic amines in dopaminergic dysfunction. Next, dietary polyphenolic compounds and five major vitamins are evaluated as potential neuroprotective agents. We assess the mechanism of action for each dietary antioxidant by focusing on cell culture and animal models of PD, and epidemiological studies. Although further research on these compounds is necessary to determine their clinical relevance, such dietary factors offer a great potential for decreasing PD risk.
Structure-guided synthesis of a protein-based fluorescent sensor for alkyl halides
Authors: Kang Myeong-Gyun , Lee Hakbong , Kim Beom Ho , Dunbayev Yerkin , Seo Jeong Kon , Lee Changwook , Rhee Hyun-Woo
Published: July 2017

A new fluorescent hybrid sensor for alkyl halides was developed from the crystal structure of a holo-HaloTag protein complex.
Highly efficient synthesis of chiral aromatic ketones via Rh-catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation of β,β-disubstituted enones
Authors: Zhang Tao , Jiang Jun , Yao Lin , Geng Huiling , Zhang Xumu
Published: July 2017

A series of chiral aromatic ketones were achieved with excellent enantioselectivities via Rh–ZhaoPhos catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation of β,β-disubstituted enones.
Nanoporous polysulfones with in situ PEGylated surfaces by a simple swelling strategy using paired solvents
Authors: Wang Zhaogen , Liu Rui , Yang Hao , Wang Yong
Published: July 2017

Strong and ductile nanoporous polymers are obtained from inexpensive PSF-b-PEG block copolymers using a facile and nondestructive swelling method.
Modulating the Phe–Phe dipeptide aggregation landscape via covalent attachment of an azobenzene photoswitch
Authors: Johny Melby , Vijayalakshmi Kanchustambham , Das Ankita , Roy Palas , Mishra Aseem , Dasgupta Jyotishman
Published: July 2017

A covalently modified trans-H-(l)AzoPhe–Phe–OH dipeptide shows reversible photo-switching between its native fibril and vesicle aggregate morphology.
Compositional effect of complex biorelevant media on the crystallization kinetics of an active pharmaceutical ingredient
Authors: Lu Jennifer , Ormes James D. , Lowinger Michael , Mann Amanda K. P. , Xu Wei , Patel Sanjaykumar , Litster James D. , Taylor Lynne S.
Published: July 2017

Bile salts impact crystal nucleation and growth of supersaturated solutions of poorly water soluble drugs.
A modeling study of methane hydrate decomposition in contact with the external surface of zeolites
Authors: Smirnov Konstantin S.
Published: July 2017

Methane hydrate dissociates on the external surface of siliceous zeolites with methane absorbed by the solid and water forming a liquid-like phase.
Development of optimum p-nc-Si window layers for nc-Si solar cells
Authors: Mondal Praloy , Das Debajyoti
Published: July 2017

p-Type nc-Si (p-nc-Si) films have been optimized under low growth temperature (∼180 °C) and low power (∼30 W) parametric conditions in 13.56 MHz RF-PECVD.
Hydrotrope induced structural modifications in CTAB/butanol/water/isooctane reverse micellar systems
Authors: Sethi Vaishali , Mishra Jayanti , Bhattacharyya Arpan , Sen Debasis , Ganguli Ashok K.
Published: July 2017

SAXS and NMR studies to gain insight of structural alterations in reverse micellar nanotemplates in presence of hydrotropes.
A reaction model on the self-assembly process of octahedron-shaped coordination capsules
Authors: Matsumura Yoshihiro , Hiraoka Shuichi , Sato Hirofumi
Published: July 2017

Master equation was utilized to track the time evolution in a self-assembly process.
Solvent diffusion in polymer-embedded hollow nanoparticles studied by in situ small angle X-ray scattering
Authors: Chen Zhi Hong , Hwang Sun Hye , Zeng Xiang-bing , Roh Jongmin , Jang Jyongsik , Ungar Goran
Published: July 2017

In situtime-resolved small-angle X-ray scattering is introduced to monitor diffusion of a solvent into a polymer and into sub-100 nm ceramic hollow nanoparticles.
Structural relaxation, viscosity, and network connectivity in a hydrogen bonding liquid
Authors: Perticaroli Stefania , Mostofian Barmak , Ehlers Georg , Neuefeind Joerg C. , Diallo Souleymane O. , Stanley Christopher B. , Daemen Luke , Egami Takeshi , Katsaras John , Cheng Xiaolin , Nickels Jonathan D.
Published: July 2017

The structure and dynamics of the model H-bonding liquid,n-methylacetamide (NMA) have been studied, revealing the connection between the timescale of H-bond network reorganization and viscosity.
Transformation of formaldehyde into functional sugars via multi-enzyme stepwise cascade catalysis
Authors: Yang Jiangang , Sun Shangshang , Men Yan , Zeng Yan , Zhu Yueming , Sun Yuanxia , Ma Yanhe
Published: July 2017

Artificial multi-enzyme systems for the transformation of the prebiotic compound formaldehyde into stereodefined functional sugars by stepwise cascade biocatalysis.
Chiral two bladed ML2 metallamacrocycles: design, structures and solution behavior
Authors: Soudry Hannah , Desmarets Christophe , Gontard Geoffrey , Edgington Tiffany , Cooksy Andrew L. , Amouri Hani
Published: July 2017

Chiral two bladed complexes of [Co(L)2][BF4]2 (1) and [Zn(L)2][BF4]2 (2) containing an atropoisomeric semi-rigid bidentate ligand L were synthesized and characterized.
Europium-doped NaGd(WO4)2 nanophosphors: synthesis, luminescence and their coating with fluorescein for pH sensing
Authors: Laguna Mariano , Escudero Alberto , Núñez Nuria O. , Becerro Ana I. , Ocaña Manuel
Published: July 2017

Uniform nanospheres of Eu : NaGd(WO4)2 have been synthesized and further coated with fluorescein to develop a ratiometric pH sensor for biotechnological applications.
Synthetic ability of dinuclear mesocates containing 1,3-bis(diazinecarboxamide)benzene bridging ligands to form complexes of increased nuclearity. Crystal structures, magnetic properties and theoretical studies
Authors: Palacios Maria A. , Morlieras Jessica , Herrera Juan Manuel , Mota Antonio J. , Brechin Euan K. , Triki Smail , Colacio Enrique
Published: July 2017

Dinuclear complexes can be used as building blocks to afford unusual heteronuclear species of different topology.
A novel alb metalloring organic framework with a {Ni12Gd24} cage exhibiting a significant magnetocaloric effect
Authors: Feng Ya-Nan , Tian Chong-Bin , Du Shao-Wu
Published: July 2017

A novel {Ni12Gd24} cage-based (6, 12)-c alb–MROF built from a {Gd4(OH)4(COO)6} trigonal-prism building unit and a {Ni6S12} hexagonal-prism molecular building block has been synthesized for the first time. It exhibits a large MCE value of 29.86 J kg−1 K−1 for ΔH = 8 T at 2 K.
Liquid coordination complexes of Lewis acidic metal chlorides: Lewis acidity and insights into speciation
Authors: Hogg James M. , Brown Lucy C. , Matuszek Karolina , Latos Piotr , Chrobok Anna , Swadźba-Kwaśny Małgorzata
Published: July 2017

Lewis acidic, liquid coordination complexes (LCCs) were synthesised from metal chlorides and trioctylphosphine or trioctylphosphine oxide.
Halogen bonds and σ-holes
Authors: Clark Timothy
Published: July 2017

The models behind simple bonding theory and the origins of some components often proposed to be involved in weak intermolecular bonds are described with special reference to σ-hole bonding, of which halogen bonds are a subset. A protocol for the analysis of weak intermolecular interactions is proposed on the basis of sound physical principles. This protocol uses three different levels of interaction; “permanent” Coulomb interactions between unperturbed monomers, relaxed Coulomb interactions and dispersion. Of the three, only dispersion is not a real, measurable quantity. It is, however, included in order to describe interactions that cannot be treated entirely by the first two levels.
Versatile CO-assisted direct reductive amination of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural catalyzed by a supported gold catalyst
Authors: Zhu Ming-Ming , Tao Lei , Zhang Qi , Dong Jing , Liu Yong-Mei , He He-Yong , Cao Yong
Published: July 2017

Reductive amination constitutes an attractive strategy for discovering protocols capable of converting biomass into valuable N-containing compounds.
Effect of ageing and single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with the risk of aggressive prostate cancer in a New Zealand population
Authors: Vaidyanathan Venkatesh , Naidu Vijay , Karunasinghe Nishi , Kao Chi Hsiu-Juei , Pallati Radha , Jabed Anower , Marlow Gareth , Kallingappa Prasanna , Ferguson Lynnette R.
Published: July 2017

Prostate cancer is one of the most significant male health concerns worldwide. Various researchers carrying out molecular diagnostics have indicated that genetic interactions with biological and behavioral factors play an important role in the overall risk and prognosis of this disease. These will be discussed in details with New Zealand perspective.
[TEATNM] and [TEATCM] as novel catalysts for the synthesis of pyridine-3,5-dicarbonitriles via anomeric-based oxidation
Authors: Baghery Saeed , Zolfigol Mohammad Ali , Maleki Farahnaz
Published: July 2017

The synthesis of 2-amino-4-aryl-6-(arylamino)pyridine-3,5-dicarbonitriles was carried out using [TEATNM] and [TEATCM] as catalysts via anomeric-based oxidation.
Wafer-scale production of vertical SnS multilayers for high-performing photoelectric devices
Authors: Patel Malkeshkumar , Kim Hong-Sik , Kim Joondong
Published: July 2017

This study achieved wafer-scale production of high quality tin monosulfide (SnS) layers. Vertical standing multilayers of SnS enabled self-biased, high speed, and stable photodetection.
Fast swelling strategy for flower-like micro-sized colloidal surfactants with controllable patches by regulating the Tg of seed particles
Authors: Tian Lei , Li Xue , Liu Jin , Wan Dewei , Ali Zafar , Zhang Qiuyu
Published: July 2017

We are reporting an efficient fast swelling procedure by regulating the glass transition temperature Tg of poly(glycidyl methacrylate) (PGMA) seed particles via copolymerization with n-butyl acrylate (nBA).
Transition-metal-free synthesis of indolizines via [3 + 2]-annulation from α-bromoenals and 2-substituted azaarenes
Authors: Liu Yuan , Yu Yang , Fu Yiwei , Liu Yonghai , Shi Lei , Li Hao , Wang Wei
Published: July 2017

A transition-metal-free “one-pot” synthetic approach for the synthesis of indolizines from α-bromo-substituted enals and simple 2-substituted azaarenes has been developed.
Polyaniline–single walled carbon nanotube composite – a photocatalyst to degrade rose bengal and methyl orange dyes under visible-light illumination
Authors: Chatterjee Mukulika Jana , Ghosh Amrita , Mondal Anup , Banerjee Dipali
Published: July 2017

PANI–SWCNT composites with varying SWCNT content were synthesized, investigated and compared with PANI as photocatalysts under visible light irradiation towards the degradation of Rose Bengal (RB) and Methyl Orange (MO) dyes.
CoMoO4 as a novel heterogeneous catalyst of peroxymonosulfate activation for the degradation of organic dyes
Authors: Fan Yanan , Ma Wenjie , He Jianglong , Du Yunchen
Published: July 2017

The catalytic performance of CoMoO4 for peroxymonosulfate activation in an advanced oxidation process was investigated for the first time.
Additive dependent synthesis of bismuth oxybromide composites for photocatalytic removal of the antibacterial agent ciprofloxacin and mechanism insight
Authors: Zeng Xiaoxing , Wan Yiqun , Gong Xiaofeng , Xu Zhaodi
Published: July 2017

Bismuth oxybromide composites obtained with TEOA as additive exhibit the highest photocatalytic degradation for CIP under visible light irradiation.
Aim and shoot: molecule-imprinting polymer coated MoO3 for selective SERS detection and photocatalytic destruction of low-level organic contaminants
Authors: Wang Lingzhi , Xu Yin , Tan Xianjun , Tapas Sen , Zhang Jinlong
Published: July 2017

A selective and high sensitive SERS substrate based on MoO3 nanorod was fabricated through the finely controllable coating of an ultrathin molecule-imprinting polymethacrylic acid layer.
Dense AuNP/MoS2 hybrid fabrication on fiber membranes for molecule separation and SERS detection
Authors: Zhao Yuefeng , Pan Xiaoxiao , Zhang Liren , Xu Yuanyuan , Li Chonghui , Wang Jundong , Ou Jiayu , Xiu Xianwu , Man Baoyuan , Yang Cheng
Published: July 2017

Synthesis of uniform and dense metal nanostructures on the whole exposed fiber, instead of simply on the membrane surface, is necessary for controllable separation and sensitive SERS detection.
Anti-microbial activity of chrysomycin A produced by Streptomyces sp. against Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Muralikrishnan Balaji , Dan Vipin Mohan , Vinodh J. S. , Jamsheena Vellekkatt , Ramachandran Ranjit , Thomas Sabu , Dastager Syed G. , Kumar K. Santhosh , Lankalapalli Ravi Shankar , Kumar Ramakrishnan Ajay
Published: July 2017

Chrysomycin A isolated fromStreptomycessp. OA161 is bactericidal toMycobacterium tuberculosis, methicillin resistantStaphylococcus aureusand vancomycin resistantEnterococcus faecalis.
Controlled shaping of lipid vesicles in a microfluidic diffusion chamber
Authors: Mally M. , Božič B. , Hartman S. Vrhovec , Klančnik U. , Mur M. , Svetina S. , Derganc J.
Published: July 2017

The chemical environment around flaccid lipid vesicles, i.e., the osmotic conditions and the concentration of membrane-shaping molecules, is regulated only by diffusion without any hydrodynamic flow.
Fluorescent probes and materials for detecting formaldehyde: from laboratory to indoor for environmental and health monitoring
Authors: Bi Anyao , Yang Shuqi , Liu Min , Wang Xiaobo , Liao Weihua , Zeng Wenbin
Published: July 2017

Formaldehyde (FA), as a vital industrial chemical, is widely used in building materials and numerous living products.
Preparation, characterization and thermal analysis of urea-formaldehyde foam
Authors: Yuan Weijing , Li Decai , Shen Yunwen , Jiang Yang , Zhang Yanhua , Gu Jiyou , Tan Haiyan
Published: July 2017

Urea formaldehyde foam (UFF) possesses outstanding properties of fire resistance, low smoke emission, low toxicity, and excellent insulation.
Molecular mechanism of helicase on graphene-based hybridization reaction platform for microRNA detection
Authors: Fan Xiaojun , Qi Yi , Shi Zhaoyi , Lv Yongkang , Guo Yujing
Published: July 2017

The Escherichia coli RecQ helicase was introduced for the first time to demonstrate its molecular mechanism on hybridization reaction for the detection of microRNA, using graphene oxide (GO) as nano-quencher.
A polysaccharide derived from Lentinus edodes impairs the immunosuppressive function of myeloid-derived suppressor cells via the p38 pathways
Authors: Du Jun , Wang Ruijie , Zhang Wensheng , Zhang Chao , Li Xiao , Shi Xiaodong , Hu Minghua , Ma Fangli , Ma ChungWah , Wang Xiaohong , Tao Ning , Qin Zhihai
Published: July 2017

MPSSS may reverse the function of the MSC2 cells through p38 activation and ERK suppression and provide a novel anti-cancer strategy by targeting myeloid immune suppressor cells.
Excellent microwave absorption properties by tuned electromagnetic parameters in polyaniline-coated Ba0.9La0.1Fe11.9Ni0.1O19/reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites
Authors: Luo Juhua , Zuo Yue , Shen Pan , Yan Zhu , Zhang Kang
Published: July 2017

The obvious enhancement of microwave absorption performance of Ba0.9La0.1Fe11.9Ni0.1O19/reduced graphene oxide/polyaniline ternary nanocomposites in 2–18 GHz was observed. The minimum reflection loss can reach −49.1 dB with thickness of 1.9 mm.
Nanomaterials in plant tissue culture: the disclosed and undisclosed
Authors: Kim Doo Hwan , Gopal Judy , Sivanesan Iyyakkannu
Published: July 2017

Nanomaterial integration into tissue culture for prospective uninterrupted progressive plant tissue culture.
Singlet oxygen oxidations in homogeneous continuous flow using a gas–liquid membrane reactor
Authors: Kouridaki Antonia , Huvaere Kevin
Published: July 2017

Safe supply of oxygen through a permeable membrane was used to carry out singlet oxygen chemistry in homogeneous flow regime.
Rapid determination of medulloblastoma subgroup affiliation with mass spectrometry using a handheld picosecond infrared laser desorption probe
Authors: Woolman Michael , Ferry Isabelle , Kuzan-Fischer Claudia M. , Wu Megan , Zou Jing , Kiyota Taira , Isik Semra , Dara Delaram , Aman Ahmed , Das Sunit , Taylor Michael D. , Rutka James T. , Ginsberg Howard J. , Zarrine-Afsar Arash
Published: July 2017

In situ mass spectrometry sampling in the absence of tissue thermal damage.
Atmospheric pressure neutral reionization mass spectrometry for structural analysis
Authors: Liu Pengyuan , Zhao Pengyi , Cooks R. Graham , Chen Hao
Published: July 2017

Neutral fragments from an ion dissociation event could be detected via reionization at atmospheric pressure.
Potent mechanism-based sirtuin-2-selective inhibition by an in situ-generated occupant of the substrate-binding site, “selectivity pocket” and NAD+-binding site
Authors: Mellini Paolo , Itoh Yukihiro , Tsumoto Hiroki , Li Ying , Suzuki Miki , Tokuda Natsuko , Kakizawa Taeko , Miura Yuri , Takeuchi Jun , Lahtela-Kakkonen Maija , Suzuki Takayoshi
Published: July 2017

SIRT2 is potently and selectively inhibited by in situ-generated KPM-2 (36)-ADP ribose conjugate.
Highly efficient enantioselective liquid–liquid extraction of 1,2-amino-alcohols using SPINOL based phosphoric acid hosts
Authors: Pinxterhuis Erik B. , Gualtierotti Jean-Baptiste , Heeres Hero J. , de Vries Johannes G. , Feringa Ben L.
Published: July 2017

SPINOL-based phosphoric acids are highly effective chiral hosts for the enantioselective liquid–liquid extraction of 1,2-aminoalcohols. The ee is highly dependent on temperature pH and solvent type.
Evaluation of dextran(ethylene glycol) hydrogel films for giant unilamellar lipid vesicle production and their application for the encapsulation of polymersomes
Authors: Mora Nestor Lopez , Gao Yue , Gutierrez M. Gertrude , Peruzzi Justin , Bakker Ivan , Peters Ruud J. R. W. , Siewert Bianka , Bonnet Sylvestre , Kieltyka Roxanne E. , van Hest Jan C. M. , Malmstadt Noah , Kros Alexander
Published: July 2017

DexPEG hydrogels are used as a scaffold to prepare GUVs loaded with colloidal cargo.
Processing–structure relationships of poly(ethylene glycol)-modified liposomes
Authors: Mineart Kenneth P. , Kelley Elizabeth G. , Nagao Michihiro , Prabhu Vivek M.
Published: July 2017

The partitioning of PEGylated lipid towards the interior and exterior of the liposome bilayer depends on the processing pathway. Small-angle neutron scattering, combined with a refined model, quantifies the stable liposome structure and PEG partition extent over a 10 week period.
Programming shape and tailoring transport: advancing hygromorphic bilayers with aligned nanofibers
Authors: Alexander S. L. M. , Ahmadmehrabi S. , Korley L. T. J.
Published: July 2017

Nanofiber alignment was utilized as a manufacturing strategy for hygromorphic bilayers to control response rate and shape through transport anisotropy.
Characterization and modelling of Langmuir interfaces with finite elasticity
Authors: Pepicelli Martina , Verwijlen Tom , Tervoort Theo A. , Vermant Jan
Published: July 2017

A novel neo-Hookean model for compressible, yet elastic interfaces is presented and validated using a radial trough apparatus.
Fractal to monolayer growth of AgCl and Ag/AgCl nanoparticles on vanadium oxides (VOx) for visible-light photocatalysis
Authors: Sharma Mukesh , Das Biraj , Sarmah Jugal Charan , Hazarika Anil , Deka Biplab K. , Park Young-Bin , Bania Kusum K.
Published: July 2017

Photocatalytic oxidation of dye pollutant in natural sunlight using Ag/AgCl/VOxnanocomposites.
Porous hollow carbon nanospheres embedded with well-dispersed cobalt monoxide nanocrystals as effective polysulfide reservoirs for high-rate and long-cycle lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Wu Shikui , Wang Yingze , Na Shengsang , Chen Chaojun , Yu Tengfei , Wang Huanyun , Zang Huimin
Published: July 2017

Lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries are promising energy storage systems owing to their high theoretical energy density and low costs due to the abundant reserves of sulfur.
Morphological zinc stannate: synthesis, fundamental properties and applications
Authors: Sun Shaodong , Liang Shuhua
Published: July 2017

In this review, we highlight the significant advancements in morphological zinc stannate (ZnSnO3and Zn2SnO4) micro/nanostructures, including synthetic strategies, fundamental properties and potential applications. Several emerging issues and prospective are also discussed.
Correction: Roadmap and roadblocks for the band gap tunability of metal halide perovskites
Authors: Unger E. L. , Kegelmann L. , Suchan K. , Sörell D. , Korte L. , Albrecht S.
Published: July 2017

Correction for ‘Roadmap and roadblocks for the band gap tunability of metal halide perovskites’ by E. L. Unger et al., J. Mater. Chem. A, 2017, 5, 11401–11409.
Application of semiconductor quantum dots in bioimaging and biosensing
Authors: Martynenko I. V. , Litvin A. P. , Purcell-Milton F. , Baranov A. V. , Fedorov A. V. , Gun'ko Y. K.
Published: July 2017

In this review we present new concepts and recent progress in the application of semiconductor quantum dots (QD) as labels in two important areas of biology, bioimaging and biosensing.
Strontium folic acid derivative functionalized titanium surfaces for enhanced osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells in vitro and bone formation in vivo
Authors: Xu Kui , Chen Weizhen , Mu Caiyun , Yu Yonglin , Cai Kaiyong
Published: July 2017

Strontium folic acid derivative (FASr) functionalized titanium surfaces improve the in vitro osteogenic differentiation of MSCs and osseointegration in vivo.
Near-infrared emitting single squaraine dye aggregates with large Stokes shifts
Authors: Paternò G. M. , Moretti L. , Barker A. J. , D'Andrea C. , Luzio A. , Barbero N. , Galliano S. , Barolo C. , Lanzani G. , Scotognella F.
Published: July 2017

The study of supramolecular interactions and aggregation behaviour of functional materials is of great importance to tune and extend their spectral sensitivity and, hence, improve the optoelectronic response of related devices.
A first-principles study on alkaline earth metal atom substituted monolayer boron nitride (BN)
Authors: Muhammad Rafique , Shuai Yong , Tan He-Ping
Published: July 2017

This paper presents first-principles density functional theory (DFT) calculations for the structural, electronic, magnetic and optical properties of monolayer boron nitride (BN) doped with different alkaline earth metal (AEM) atoms.
Glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase 2 is essential for normal spermatogenesis
Authors: Garcia-Fabiani Maria B. , Montanaro Mauro A. , Stringa Pablo , Lacunza Ezequiel , Cattaneo Elizabeth R. , Santana Marianela , Pellon-Maison Magali , Gonzalez-Baro Maria R.
Published: July 2017

Glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferases (GPATs) catalyze the first and rate-limiting step in the de novo glycerolipid synthesis. The GPAT2 isoform differs from the other isoforms because its expression is restricted to male germ cells and cancer cells. It has been recently reported that GPAT2 expression in mouse testis fluctuates during sexual maturation and that it is regulated by epigenetic mechanisms in combination with vitamin A derivatives. Despite progress made in this field, information about GPAT2 role in the developing male germ cells remains unclear. The aim of the present study was to confirm the hypothesis that GPAT2 is required for the normal physiology of testes and male germ cell maturation. The gene was silenced in vivo by inoculating lentiviral particles carrying the sequence of a short-hairpin RNA targeting Gpat2 mRNA into mouse testis. Histological and gene expression analysis showed impaired spermatogenesis and arrest at the pachytene stage. Defects in reproductive fitness were also observed, and the analysis of apoptosis-related gene expression demonstrated the activation of apoptosis in Gpat2-silenced germ cells. These findings indicate that GPAT2 protein is necessary for the normal development of male gonocytes, and that its absence triggers apoptotic mechanisms, thereby decreasing the number of dividing germ cells.
Deletion of transcription factor binding motifs using the CRISPR/spCas9 system in the β-globin LCR
Authors: Kim Yea Woon , Kim AeRi
Published: July 2017

Transcription factors play roles in gene transcription through direct binding to their motifs in genome, and inhibiting this binding provides an effective strategy for studying their roles. Here, we applied the CRISPR (clustered, regularly interspaced, short palindromic repeat)/spCas9 (CRISPR-associated protein 9) system to mutate the binding motifs of transcription factors. Binding motifs for erythroid-specific transcription factors were mutated in the locus control region (LCR) hypersensitive sites (HSs) of the human β-globin locus. Guide RNAs targetting binding motifs were cloned into lentiviral CRISPR vector containing the spCas9 gene, and transduced into MEL/ch11 cells carrying human chromosome 11. DNA mutations in clonal cells were initially screened by quantitative PCR (qPCR) in genomic DNA and then clarified by sequencing. Mutations in binding motifs reduced occupancy by transcription factors in a chromatin environment. Characterization of mutations revealed that the CRISPR/spCas9 system mainly induced deletions in short regions of <20 bp and preferentially deleted nucleotides around the fifth nucleotide upstream of Protospacer adjacent motifs (PAMs). These results indicate that the CRISPR/Cas9 system is suitable for mutating the binding motifs of transcription factors, and, consequently, would contribute to elucidate the direct roles of transcription factors.
Experimental and Theoretical Studies on the Reduction of CO2 to CO with Chloro(methyl)disilane Components from the Direct Process
Authors: Jensen Frank , Skrydstrup Troels , Flinker Mathias , Lopez Sara , Nielsen Dennis , Daasbjerg Kim
Published: July 2017

Three disilanes, (CH3)3SiSi(CH3)3, Cl(CH3)2SiSi(CH3)2Cl, and Cl2(CH3)SiSi(CH3)Cl2, all representing components of the Direct Process residue for the industrial synthesis of chloromethylsilanes, were evaluated for their abilities to reduce carbon dioxide to carbon monoxide upon treatment with fluoride salts. In particular, Cl(CH3)2SiSi(CH3)2Cl proved to be highly efficient upon the use of stoichiometric amounts of potassium bifluoride. DFT calculations performed on the reduction steps with (CH3)3SiSi(CH3)3 and fluorinated analogues of this disilane suggest that the previously proposed pathway involving an intermediate silacarboxylic acid is plausible.
Convenient and Clean Synthesis of Isatins by Metal-Free Oxidation of Oxindoles
Authors: Wei Wen-Ting , Liang Hongze , Ying Wei-Wei , Zhu Wen-Ming , Wu Yi , Huang Yi-Ling , Cao Yi-Qi , Wang Yi-Ning
Published: July 2017

A metal-free synthesis of isatins was achieved through the oxidative reactions of oxindoles with molecular oxygen in the presence of tert-butyl nitrite as an additive. This strategy provides a convenient and simple synthetic route to the construction of C=O bonds without the need for any catalyst or base. The attractive features of this reaction include its convenient procedure and mild reaction conditions.
An Innovate Robotic Endoscope Guidance System for Transnasal Sinus and Skull Base Surgery: Proof of Concept
Authors: Sommer F. , Scheithauer M. , Greve J. , Hoffmann T. , Schuler P. , Friedrich D.
Published: July 2017

Objective Advanced transnasal sinus and skull base surgery remains a challenging discipline for head and neck surgeons. Restricted access and space for instrumentation can impede advanced interventions. Thus, we present the combination of an innovative robotic endoscope guidance system and a specific endoscope with adjustable viewing angle to facilitate transnasal surgery in a human cadaver model.

Materials and Methods The applicability of the robotic endoscope guidance system with custom foot pedal controller was tested for advanced transnasal surgery on a fresh frozen human cadaver head. Visualization was enabled using a commercially available endoscope with adjustable viewing angle (15–90 degrees).

Results Visualization and instrumentation of all paranasal sinuses, including the anterior and middle skull base, were feasible with the presented setup. Controlling the robotic endoscope guidance system was effectively precise, and the adjustable endoscope lens extended the view in the surgical field without the common change of fixed viewing angle endoscopes.

Conclusion The combination of a robotic endoscope guidance system and an advanced endoscope with adjustable viewing angle enables bimanual surgery in transnasal interventions of the paranasal sinuses and the anterior skull base in a human cadaver model. The adjustable lens allows for the abandonment of fixed-angle endoscopes, saving time and resources, without reducing the quality of imaging.
Prolonged Bleeding after a Single Leech Application in Pediatric Hand Surgery
Authors: Taghinia Amir , Kotick James
Published: July 2017

Use of the medicinal leech in microsurgery is common place for venous decongestion and can be associated with the need for transfusion over time and multiple applications. Here the authors present a case of profound, ongoing, life-threatening bleeding after a single leech application in pediatric microscopic surgery. There are no reports of such profound bleeding in the literature, and this case serves as a warning of the need for close surveillance in this subset of patients.
Fiducial markers coupled with 3D PET/CT offer more accurate radiation treatment delivery for locally advanced esophageal cancer
Authors: Oliver Jasmine , Venkat Puja , Frakes Jessica , Klapman Jason , Harris Cynthia , Montilla-Soler Jaime , Dhadham Gautamy , Altazi Baderaldeen , Zhang Geoffrey , Moros Eduardo , Shridhar Ravi , Hoffe Sarah , Latifi Kujtim
Published: July 2017

Background and aims The role of three-dimensional positron emission tomography/computed tomography (3 D PET/CT) in esophageal tumors that move with respiration and have potential for significant mucosal inflammation is unclear. The aim of this study was to determine the correlation between gross tumor volumes derived from 3 D PET/CT and endoscopically placed fiducial markers.

Methods This was a retrospective, IRB approved analysis of 40 patients with esophageal cancer with fiducials implanted and PET/CT. The centroid of each fiducial was identified on PET/CT images. Distance between tumor volume and fiducials was measured using axial slices. Image features were extracted and tested for pathologic response predictability.

Results The median adaptively calculated threshold value of the standardized uptake value (SUV) to define the metabolic tumor volume (MTV) border was 2.50, which corresponded to a median 23 % of the maximum SUV. The median distance between the inferior fiducial centroid and MTV was – 0.60 cm (– 3.9 to 2.7 cm). The median distance between the superior fiducial centroid and MTV was 1.25 cm (– 4.2 to 6.9 cm). There was no correlation between MTV-to-fiducial distances greater than 2 cm and the gastroenterologist who performed the fiducial implantation. Eccentricity demonstrated statistically significant correlations with pathologic response.

Conclusions There was a stronger correlation between inferior fiducial location and MTV border compared to the superior extent. The etiology of the discordance superiorly is unclear, potentially representing benign secondary esophagitis, presence of malignant nodes, inflammation caused by technical aspects of the fiducial placement itself, or potential submucosal disease. Given the concordance inferiorly and the ability to more precisely set up the patient with daily image guidance matching to fiducials, it may be possible to minimize the planning tumor volume (PTV) margin in select patients, thereby, limiting dose to normal structures.
Small bowel malignancy in patients undergoing capsule endoscopy at a tertiary care academic center: Case series and review of the literature
Authors: Johnston Connor , Yung Diana , Joshi Alka , Plevris John , Koulaouzidis Anastasios
Published: July 2017

Background and study aims Small bowel cancer is rare, accounting for < 5 % of all gastrointestinal neoplasms. Capsule endoscopy has become the procedure of choice for non-invasive diagnosis of small bowel diseases. Data on capsule endoscopy diagnosis of small bowel cancer are limited. The objective of the study was to determine the frequency, indications and diagnostic work-up of patients with small bowel malignancy found by capsule endoscopy at a Scottish tertiary center.

Patients and methods In this retrospective study, records all patients who underwent small bowel capsule endoscopy at our center over a 10-year period were reviewed for possible malignancy. Further data were gathered on preceding and subsequent investigations, management and outcome of these patients. 

Results From 1949 studies, small bowel malignancies were diagnosed in only 7 patients (0.36 %; 2F/5M; median age 50, range 34 – 67). The main indication was iron-deficiency anemia (n = 5). Prior to capsule endoscopy, 6 of 7 patients had bidirectional endoscopies and one had gastroscopy. All prior investigations were normal or nondiagnostic. Two of 7 experienced capsule retention. Five of 7 underwent surgery. Four patients died, giving a 5-year survival rate of 42.9 %.

Conclusion Small bowel malignancies diagnosed by capsule endoscopy are rare, and the median age of 50 indicates they are more common in relatively younger patients. Capsule endoscopy is effective at diagnosing a rare malignancy when other imaging modalities have failed.
Endoscopic esophagogastric anastomosis with luminal apposition Axios stent (LAS) approach: a new concept for hybrid “Lewis Santy”
Authors: Culetto Adrian , Gonzalez Jean-Michel , Vanbiervliet Geoffroy , Miranda Garcia Pablo , Tellechea Juan , Garnier Emmanuelle , Berdah Stephane , Barthet Marc
Published: July 2017

Background and study aims Esophagogastric anastomosis (EGA) has a high risk of leakage. Based upon our experience in endoscopic gastrojejunal anastomosis using LAS, the aim of this study was to verify the technical feasibility and the safety of performing an EGA using a hybrid approach (endoscopic and surgical).

Materials and methods A pilot prospective study was performed on 8 survival pigs. The procedure was carried out in 2 stages: (i) surgical step consisting of an esogastrectomy by laparotomy with separated suture of the esophagus and stomach; (ii) endoscopic esophagogastric anastomosis using the LAS. The first 2 pigs allowed for the setting of the 2 steps procedure, and 6 were included in the study for assessing the efficacy and safety of the procedure with a 3-week survival course. The primary endpoint was morbidity and mortality.

Results All procedures were successfull. The mean operative time was 98 minutes, with a mean endoscopic time of 46 minutes. Three early deaths occurred within the first weeks, unrelated to the LAS anastomosis. At 3 weeks, endoscopic assessment followed by necropsy demonstrated the right position and the endoscopic removability of the stent with good patency of the esophagogastric anastomosis, without leakage of the endoscopic suture. Pathological examination confirmed the patency of the anastomosis with fusion of mucosal and muscle layers.

Conclusion Endoscopic esophagogastric anastomosis with LAS is feasible and reproducible, without anastomotic leakage. It could be a new alternative to perform safe anastomoses, as part of a hybrid approach (surgical and endoscopic).