bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-throughput mutagenesis using a two-fragment PCR approach
Authors: Heydenreich Franziska M. , Miljuš Tamara , Jaussi Rolf , Benoit Roger , Milić Dalibor , Veprintsev Dmitry B.
Published: July 2017

Site-directed scanning mutagenesis is a powerful protein engineering technique which allows studies of protein functionality at single amino acid resolution and design of stabilized proteins for structural and biophysical work. However, creating libraries of hundreds of mutants remains a challenging, expensive and time-consuming process. The efficiency of the mutagenesis step is the key for fast and economical generation of such libraries. PCR artefacts such as misannealing and tandem primer repeats are often observed in mutagenesis cloning and reduce the efficiency of mutagenesis. Here we present a high-throughput mutagenesis pipeline based on established methods that significantly reduces PCR artefacts. We combined a two-fragment PCR approach, in which mutagenesis primers are used in two separate PCR reactions, with an in vitro assembly of resulting fragments. We show that this approach, despite being more laborious, is a very efficient pipeline for the creation of large libraries of mutants.
Transcriptomic signature of the follicular somatic compartment surrounding an oocyte with high developmental competence
Authors: Sugimura Satoshi , Kobayashi Norio , Okae Hiroaki , Yamanouchi Tadayuki , Matsuda Hideo , Kojima Takumi , Yajima Akira , Hashiyada Yutaka , Kaneda Masahiro , Sato Kan , Imai Kei , Tanemura Kentaro , Arima Takahiro , Gilchrist Robert B.
Published: July 2017

During antral folliculogenesis, developmental competence of prospective oocytes is regulated in large part by the follicular somatic component to prepare the oocyte for the final stage of maturation and subsequent embryo development. The underlying molecular mechanisms are poorly understood. Oocytes reaching the advanced stage of follicular growth by administration of exogenous follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) possess higher developmental competence than oocytes in FSH-untreated smaller follicles. In this study, the transcriptomic profile of the cumulus cells from cows receiving FSH administration (FSH-priming) was compared, as a model of high oocyte competence, with that from untreated donor cows (control). Ingenuity Pathway Analysis showed that cumulus cells receiving FSH-priming were rich in down-regulated transcripts associated with cell movement and migration, including the extracellular matrix-related transcripts, probably preventing the disruption of cell-to-cell contacts. Interestingly, the transcriptomic profile of up-regulated genes in the control group was similar to that of granulosa cells from atretic follicles. Interferon regulatory factor 7 was activated as the key upstream regulator of FSH-priming. Thus, acquisition of developmental competence by oocytes can be ensured by the integrity of cumulus cells involved in cell-to-cell communication and cell survival, which may help achieve enhanced oocyte-somatic cell coupling.
Epigenetic changes in myelofibrosis: Distinct methylation changes in the myeloid compartments and in cases with ASXL1 mutations
Authors: Nielsen Helene Myrtue , Andersen Christen Lykkegaard , Westman Maj , Kristensen Lasse Sommer , Asmar Fazila , Kruse Torben Arvid , Thomassen Mads , Larsen Thomas Stauffer , Skov Vibe , Hansen Lise Lotte , Bjerrum Ole Weis , Hasselbalch Hans Carl , Punj Vasu , Grønbæk Kirsten
Published: July 2017

This is the first study to compare genome-wide DNA methylation profiles of sorted blood cells from myelofibrosis (MF) patients and healthy controls. We found that differentially methylated CpG sites located to genes involved in ‘cancer’ and ‘embryonic development’ in MF CD34+ cells, in ‘inflammatory disease’ in MF mononuclear cells, and in ‘immunological diseases’ in MF granulocytes. Only few differentially methylated CpG sites were common among the three cell populations. Mutations in the epigenetic regulators ASXL1 (47%) and TET2 (20%) were not associated with a specific DNA methylation pattern using an unsupervised approach. However, in a supervised analysis of ASXL1 mutated versus wild-type cases, differentially methylated CpG sites were enriched in regions marked by histone H3K4me1, histone H3K27me3, and the bivalent histone mark H3K27me3 + H3K4me3 in human CD34+ cells. Hypermethylation of selected CpG sites was confirmed in a separate validation cohort of 30 MF patients by pyrosequencing. Altogether, we show that individual MF cell populations have distinct differentially methylated genes relative to their normal counterparts, which likely contribute to the phenotypic characteristics of MF. Furthermore, differentially methylated CpG sites in ASXL1 mutated MF cases are found in regulatory regions that could be associated with aberrant gene expression of ASXL1 target genes.
Blockade of high-mobility group box 1 attenuates intestinal mucosal barrier dysfunction in experimental acute pancreatitis
Authors: Chen Xia , Zhao Hong-Xian , Bai Chao , Zhou Xiang-Yu
Published: July 2017

The release of inflammatory cytokines, that plays a dominant role in local pancreatic inflammation and systemic complications in severe acute pancreatitis (SAP). High-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) is implicated in the mechanism of organ dysfunction and bacterial translocation in SAP. This current study aims to investigate possible role of HMGB1 in the intestinal mucosal barrier dysfunction of SAP, and the effect of anti-HMGB1 antibody treatment in intestinal mucosal injury in SAP. Our data revealed that the HMGB1 expression was significantly increased in AP mice induced by caerulein and LPS, and the inhibition of HMGB1 played a protective role in intestinal mucosal barrier dysfunction, reduced the serum level of other proinflammatory cytokines include IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α. Next we investigated the downstream receptors involving in HMGB1 signaling. We found that the expressions of toll-like receptor (TLR) 4 and TLR9 were elevated in ileum of AP mice, the administration of HMGB1 neutralizing antibody significantly reduced the TLR4 and TLR9 expression. It was concluded that HMGB1 contributed the mechanism to the intestinal mucosal barrier dysfunction during AP. Blockade of HMGB1 by administration of HMGB1 neutralizing antibody may be a beneficial therapeutic strategy in improving intestinal mucosal barrier dysfunction in SAP.
DDR2 controls the epithelial-mesenchymal-transition-related gene expression via c-Myb acetylation upon matrix stiffening
Authors: Kim Daehwan , You Eunae , Jeong Jangho , Ko Panseon , Kim Jung-Woong , Rhee Sangmyung
Published: July 2017

Increasing matrix stiffness caused by the extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition surrounding cancer cells is accompanied by epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). Here, we show that expression levels of EMT marker genes along with discoidin domain receptor 2 (DDR2) can increase upon matrix stiffening. DDR2 silencing by short hairpin RNA downregulated EMT markers. Promoter analysis and chromatin immunoprecipitation revealed that c-Myb and LEF1 may be responsible for DDR2 induction during cell culture on a stiff matrix. Mechanistically, c-Myb acetylation by p300, which is upregulated on the stiff matrix, seems to be necessary for the c-Myb-and-LEF1–mediated DDR2 expression. Finally, we found that the c-Myb–DDR2 axis is crucial for lung cancer cell line proliferation and expression of EMT marker genes in a stiff environment. Thus, our results suggest that DDR2 regulation by p300 expression and/or c-Myb acetylation upon matrix stiffening may be necessary for regulation of EMT and invasiveness of lung cancer cells.
Videourodynamic Studies of Women with Voiding Dysfunction
Authors: Hsiao Sheng-Mou , Lin Ho-Hsiung , Kuo Hann-Chorng
Published: July 2017

This retrospective study is aimed to present videourodynamic findings of women with symptoms of voiding dysfunction in a medical center. Of 1914 women, the diagnoses included bladder outlet obstruction (BOO, n = 810, 42.3%), bladder dysfunction (n = 1,048, 54.8%) and normal tracings (n = 56, 2.9%). Anatomic BOO (n = 49) included cystocele (n = 19) and urethral stricture (n = 30). Common functional BOOs included dysfunctional voiding (n = 325, 17.0%) and poor relaxation of the external sphincter (n = 336, 17.6%). Common bladder dysfunction subtypes included detrusor underactivity (n = 337, 17.6%), detrusor hyperactivity with impaired contractility (n = 231, 12.1%), and bladder oversensitivity (n = 325, 17.0%). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis were performed, and the following optimum cutoff values were determined: (1) voiding detrusor pressure at a maximum flow rate (Pdet.Qmax) = 30 cmH2O for differentiating BOO from bladder dysfunction and normal tracings, with an ROC area of 0.78; (2) the Abrams-Griffiths number = 30 for differentiating anatomic from functional BOO, with an ROC area of 0.66; (3) post-void residual = 200 mL for differentiating bladder neck dysfunction from the other BOOs, with an ROC area of 0.69; (4) Pdet.Qmax = 30 cmH2O for differentiating dysfunctional voiding from poor relaxation of the external sphincter with an ROC area of 0.93. The above findings can be used as initial guide for management of female BOO.
Cyclin-dependent kinase 9 is required for the survival of adult Drosophila melanogaster glia
Authors: Foo Lynette C.
Published: July 2017

Neuronal and glial progenitor cells exist in the adult Drosophila brain. The primarily glial progenitor cells rely on a microRNA, mir-31a, to inhibit the expression of a predicted E3 ubiquitin ligase, CG16947. Erroneous inheritance of CG16947 by the progeny when the neural progenitor cell divides leads to death of the progeny, however how CG16947 achieves glial cell death is unknown. I have identified the interacting partner of CG16947 to be cdk9. I show that reduction of cdk9 expression in glia causes glial loss; highlighting the importance of cdk9 in mediating the survival of glia. Further, glial loss observed in mir-31a mutants was prevented with adult-specific expression of cdk9 in glia. I provide biochemical evidence that the binding of CG16947 to cdk9 causes its degradation. Taken together, this data shows that cdk9 plays a role in the survival of adult glia in the Drosophila brain. Thus, a fine balance exists between mir-31a and CG16947 expression in the progenitor cells that in turn regulates the levels of cdk9 in the progeny. This serves to allow the progenitor cells to regulate the number of glia in the adult brain.
A simple method using ex vivo culture of hair follicle tissue to investigate intrinsic circadian characteristics in humans
Authors: Yamaguchi Ai , Matsumura Ritsuko , Matsuzaki Takashi , Nakamura Wataru , Node Koichi , Akashi Makoto
Published: July 2017

Almost all organisms maintain a circadian clock from birth to death to synchronize their own physiology and behavior with the earth’s rotation. Because the in vivo evaluation of human circadian characteristics is labor-intensive, in vitro or ex vivo approaches could provide advantages. In this study, to enable the simple and non-invasive evaluation of autonomous circadian oscillation, we established a method for monitoring clock gene expression by performing ex vivo culture of whole hair root tissue. This method is extremely simple and imposes little burden on subjects. Results obtained using Cryptochrome-deficient mice support that circadian period length in hair tissue correlates with intrinsic period length observed in physiology and behavior. We then applied this method to old-old subjects with severe dementia, who showed abnormal circadian behavior, and found that their peripheral clocks autonomously oscillated in a manner similar to those of healthy or younger subjects, indicating that the effect of cellular senescence on the autonomous clock oscillator is limited at least in some cell types. Although further validation may be required, the hair tissue-based culture assay would be a tool to investigate intrinsic circadian characteristics in humans.
Neuropeptide Y prolongs non-social memory and differentially affects acquisition, consolidation, and retrieval of non-social and social memory in male mice
Authors: Kornhuber Johannes , Zoicas Iulia
Published: July 2017

Neuropeptide Y (NPY) and its receptors (especially Y1, Y2, and Y5) are highly expressed in brain regions involved in learning and memory processes. Accordingly, NPY was shown to modulate cognitive functions in rodents. Here, we investigated possible memory-enhancing effects of NPY and determined the role of the NPY system in the acquisition, consolidation, and retrieval of non-social and social memory in mice, using the object and social discrimination tests, respectively. Intracerebroventricular (icv) infusion of NPY (1 nmol/2 µl) prolonged retention of non-social (object) memory, but not of social memory. This effect was blocked by the Y1 receptor antagonist BIBO3304 trifluoroacetate (2 nmol/2 µl), but not by the Y2 receptor antagonist BIIE0246 (2 nmol/2 µl). While icv infusion of NPY did not affect the acquisition, consolidation, and retrieval of non-social and social memory, icv infusion of BIBO3304 trifluoroacetate and BIIE0246 blocked the consolidation of non-social memory and the retrieval of both non-social and social memory. This study suggests that NPY has memory-enhancing effects in a non-social context by specifically acting on Y1 receptors. It further suggests that the central NPY system exerts differential effects on the sequential phases of non-social and social memory.
Investigation of simultaneously existed Raman scattering enhancement and inhibiting fluorescence using surface modified gold nanostars as SERS probes
Authors: Shan Feng , Zhang Xiao-Yang , Fu Xing-Chang , Zhang Li-Jiang , Su Dan , Wang Shan-Jiang , Wu Jing-Yuan , Zhang Tong
Published: July 2017

One of the main challenges for highly sensitive surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) detection is the noise interference of fluorescence signals arising from the analyte molecules. Here we used three types of gold nanostars (GNSs) SERS probes treated by different surface modification methods to reveal the simultaneously existed Raman scattering enhancement and inhibiting fluorescence behaviors during the SERS detection process. As the distance between the metal nanostructures and the analyte molecules can be well controlled by these three surface modification methods, we demonstrated that the fluorescence signals can be either quenched or enhanced during the detection. We found that fluorescence quenching will occur when analyte molecules are closely contacted to the surface of GNSs, leading to a ~100 fold enhancement of the SERS sensitivity. An optimized Raman signal detection limit, as low as the level of 10−11 M, were achieved when Rhodamine 6 G were used as the analyte. The presented fluorescence-free GNSs SERS substrates with plentiful hot spots and controllable surface plasmon resonance wavelengths, fabricated using a cost-effective self-assembling method, can be very competitive candidates for high-sensitive SERS applications.
The recognition mechanism of triple-helical β-1,3-glucan by a β-1,3-glucanase
Authors: Qin Zhen , Yang Dong , You Xin , Liu Yu , Hu Songqing , Yan Qiaojuan , Yang Shaoqing , Jiang Zhengqiang
Published: July 2017

β-1,3-Glucan is one of the most abundant polysaccharides in fungi.
Precise preparation of layered Na0.5Ni0.25Mn0.75O2 micro-sheets for 3.8 V Na-ion batteries
Authors: Yang Jingang , Yuan Tingting , Guo Biao , Dai Chunlong , Liu Yuan , Li Guannan , Liu Gang , Xu Maowen
Published: July 2017

Novel layered Na0.5Ni0.25Mn0.75O2 micro-sheets were explored as cathode materials for Na-ion batteries for the first time, which can exhibit electrochemical activity operating at an average voltage of 3.8 V (vs. Na+/Na) and deliver a reversible discharge capacity of 121 mA h g−1 at 0.2C rate.
A rhodium-catalyzed tandem reaction of N-sulfonyl triazoles with indoles: access to indole-substituted indanones
Authors: Yuan Hao , Gong Jianxian , Yang Zhen
Published: July 2017

Rhodium(ii)-catalyzed tandem reaction of N-sulfonyl triazoles with indoles delivered structurally diverse indole-substituted indanones bearing vicinal quaternary carbon centers.
A co-pillar[5]arene sensor for linear biogenic amines
Authors: Reddy Kothur Raghuram , Anil Patel Bhavik , Cragg Peter J.
Published: July 2017

A thiolated co-pillar[5]arene was attached to the surface of a gold electrode and shown to give an analyte-selective voltammetric response to linear biogenic amines.
Synthesis of new cobalt aluminophosphate framework by opening a cobalt methylphosphonate layered material
Authors: Zaarour Moussa , Perez Olivier , Boullay Philippe , Martens Jörn , Mihailova Boriana , Karaghiosoff Konstantin , Palatinus Lukáš , Mintova Svetlana
Published: July 2017

A highly stable, cobalt rich, template free Co–AlPO material was prepared by opening the structure of CoMeP under hydrothermal treatment in the presence of aluminium.
Photoluminescence from vibrational excited-states for organic molecules adsorbed on Si nanoparticles
Authors: Maeda M. , Matsumoto T. , Kobayashi H.
Published: July 2017

PL mechanism involving transfer of an electron–hole pair generated in Si nanoparticles to adsorbed DMA.
The pressure–temperature phase diagram of pure Co based on first-principles calculations
Authors: Wang Cuiping , Li Cong , Han Jiajia , Yan Lihui , Deng Bin , Liu Xingjun
Published: July 2017

We optimized the high pressure–temperature phase diagram of pure Co up to the liquidus temperature and 120 GPa, based on thermodynamic properties calculated using first-principles.
Unusual cis-diprotonated forms and fluorescent aggregates of non-peripherally alkoxy-substituted metallophthalocyanines
Authors: Kasprzycki P. , Sobotta L. , Lijewski S. , Wierzchowski M. , Goslinski T. , Mielcarek J. , Radzewicz C. , Fita P.
Published: July 2017

Diprotonated alkoxy-substituted magnesium metallophthalocyanines untypically take thecis-form, whereas their zinc analogues form thetrans-diprotonated isomer, typical for these compounds.
Ruthenium-catalyzed oxidative decyanative cross-coupling of acetonitriles with amines in air: a general access to primary to tertiary amides under mild conditions
Authors: Wang Yuguang , Wu Zhongli , Li Qin , Zhu Bingchun , Yu Lei
Published: July 2017

C–CN activation catalyzed by Ru/C in open air was achieved, affording an efficient access to primary, secondary and tertiary amides under mild conditions.
Structure-performance relationship in CuO/SBA-15-type SOxadsorbent: evolution of copper-based species under different regenerative treatments
Authors: Berger M. , Fioux P. , Dorge S. , Nouali H. , Habermacher D. , Fiani E. , Vierling M. , Moliere M. , Brilhac J. F. , Patarin J.
Published: July 2017

Desulfurization of industrial flue gas stream: characterization of the evolution of copper active sites along SOxadsorption/regeneration cycling experiments in CuO/SBA-15-type adsorbent.
Participation of interfacial hydroxyl groups in the water-gas shift reaction over Au/MgO catalysts
Authors: Cui Yanran , Li Zhenglong , Zhao Zhijian , Cybulskis Viktor J. , Sabnis Kaiwalya D. , Han Chang Wan , Ortalan Volkan , Schneider William F. , Greeley Jeffrey , Delgass W. Nicholas , Ribeiro Fabio H.
Published: July 2017

OH at 3750 cm−1 reacts with CO only in the presence of Au, indicating the importance of the Au/MgO interface.
Grand challenges for catalysis in the Science and Technology Roadmap on Catalysis for Europe: moving ahead for a sustainable future
Authors: Lanzafame P. , Perathoner S. , Centi G. , Gross S. , Hensen E. J. M.
Published: July 2017

This perspective discusses the general concepts that will guide future catalysis and related grand challenges based on the Science and Technology Roadmap on Catalysis for Europe prepared by the European Cluster on Catalysis.
Di- vs. tetra-substituted quinonediimines: a drastic effect on coordination chemistry
Authors: Lavaud Lucien , Chen Zhongrui , Elhabiri Mourad , Jacquemin Denis , Canard Gabriel , Siri Olivier
Published: July 2017

N,N′-Di-substituted benzoquinonediimine ligands behave differently in coordination chemistry compared to the well-known N,N′,N′′,N′′′-tetra-substituted analogues.
Insertion reactions of small unsaturated molecules in the N–B bonds of boron guanidinates
Authors: Ramos Alberto , Antiñolo Antonio , Carrillo-Hermosilla Fernando , Fernández-Galán Rafael , Montero-Rama María del Pilar , Villaseñor Elena , Rodríguez-Diéguez Antonio , García-Vivó Daniel
Published: July 2017

1,1- or 1,2-insertions take place in the N–B bonds of boron guanidinates in their reactions with isonitriles, CO, benzaldehyde or CO2.
Sequential series multijunction dye-sensitized solar cells (SSM-DSCs): 4.7 volts from a single illuminated area
Authors: Cheema Hammad , Rodrigues Roberta R. , Delcamp Jared H.
Published: July 2017

Sequential series multijunction DSCs are shown to reach 4.7 V while maintaining a PCE of >4% and powering solar-to-fuel systems without external bias.
SnS nanoparticles electrostatically anchored on three-dimensional N-doped graphene as an active and durable anode for sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Xiong Xunhui , Yang Chenghao , Wang Guanhua , Lin Yuwei , Ou Xing , Wang Jeng-Han , Zhao Bote , Liu Meilin , Lin Zhang , Huang Kevin
Published: July 2017

SnS nanoparticles (SnS NPs) electrostatically anchored on a 3D N-doped graphene (3DNG) network exhibit the best cycling performance reported so far for SnS-based anodes.
Tandem deprotection/coupling for peptide synthesis in water at room temperature
Authors: Cortes-Clerget Margery , Berthon Jean-Yves , Krolikiewicz-Renimel Isabelle , Chaisemartin Laurent , Lipshutz Bruce H.
Published: July 2017

A tandem deprotection/coupling sequence is reported for solution-phase peptide synthesis in water under micellar catalysis conditions using the designer surfactant TPGS-750-M.
A multiscale agent-based framework integrated with a constraint-based metabolic network model of cancer for simulating avascular tumor growth
Authors: Ghadiri Mehrdad , Heidari Mahshid , Marashi Sayed-Amir , Mousavi Seyed Hasan
Published: July 2017

The integration of an agent-based framework with a constraint-based metabolic network model of cancer for simulating avascular tumor growth.
Photocatalytic degradation of formaldehyde by PAN nonwoven supported Fe(iii) catalysts under visible light irradiation
Authors: Han Xu , Han Zhenbang , Zhao Jin , Zhao Xiaoming
Published: July 2017

Amidoximated PAN nonwoven fabrics coordinated with Fe(iii) as a photocatalyst for formaldehyde degradation by activating O2 under visible irradiation.
A Janus oil barrel with tapered microhole arrays for spontaneous high-flux spilled oil absorption and storage
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Zhang Yinghui , Fan Hua , Wang Yulong , Zhou Chen , Ren Feifei , Wu Sizhu , Li Guoqiang , Hu Yanlei , Li Jiawen , Wu Dong , Chu Jiaru
Published: July 2017

A novel Janus oil barrel with tapered microholes is fabricated for the first time for the remediation of oil spill accidents.
Diastereoselective building up polycyclic tetrahydrofurans via tandem annulation of 1,n-enynes with aliphatic acids
Authors: Lv Leiyang , Lu Shenglin , Chen Yuanjin , Li Zhiping
Published: July 2017

A silver-catalyzed tandem annulation of aniline-linked 1,7-enynes with aliphatic acids has been reported. These synergistic tandem annulations allowed for the straightforward and efficient synthesis of various highly diastereoselective polycyclic tetrahydrofurans.
Solvent-induced construction of two zinc supramolecular isomers: synthesis, framework flexibility, sensing properties, and adsorption of dye molecules
Authors: Song Jiang-Feng , Luo Jing-Jing , Jia Ying-Ying , Xin Li-Dong , Lin Zhi-Zhu , Zhou Rui-Sha
Published: July 2017

Solvent-induced construction of two zinc supramolecular isomerism, sensing properties and adsorption of dye molecules.
Construction of 3D metal–organic frameworks bearing heteropolyoxometalate units and multi-azole molecules and exploration of their photocatalytic activities
Authors: Gong Chunhua , Zeng Xianghua , Xin Li , Zhang Junyong , Xie Jingli
Published: July 2017

Two novel 3D metal–organic frameworks consisting of rigid ligand modified polyoxomolybdates were obtained and both of them have efficient photocatalytic activities in the degradation of several dye molecules.
Insights into iron induced fouling of ion-exchange membranes revealed by a quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring
Authors: Chen Mei , Ma Jinxing , Wang Zhiwei , Zhang Xingran , Wu Zhichao
Published: July 2017

Understanding the mechanisms of multivalent iron interacting with ion-exchange membranes (IEMs) is crucial for the prediction of membrane fouling as well as the development of control strategies.
Photoredox mediated nickel catalyzed C(sp3)–H thiocarbonylation of ethers
Authors: Kang Byungjoon , Hong Soon Hyeok
Published: July 2017

The first C(sp3)–H thiocarbonylation is achieved by visible light photoredox/Ni dual catalysis using thiobenzoates as the thioester group source.
Semisynthetic prion protein (PrP) variants carrying glycan mimics at position 181 and 197 do not form fibrils
Authors: Araman Can , Thompson Robert E. , Wang Siyao , Hackl Stefanie , Payne Richard J. , Becker Christian F. W.
Published: July 2017

Semisynthesis and characterization of homogeneously mono- and di-PEGylated full length PrP variants to study the impact of PEGylation (as N-glycan mimics) on protein folding and aggregation.
Transition of surface–interface creasing in bilayer hydrogels
Authors: Zhou Zhiheng , Li Ying , Wong Weihin , Guo Tianfu , Tang Shan , Luo Jiayan
Published: July 2017

Through experiments and finite element simulations, the surface or interface crease of bilayer hydrogels under swelling is governed by both the modulus ratio and the height ratio.
Can exotic disordered “stealthy” particle configurations tolerate arbitrarily large holes?
Authors: Zhang G. , Stillinger F. H. , Torquato S.
Published: July 2017

We show that exotic disordered “stealthy” many-particle configurations across space dimensions cannot tolerate arbitrarily large holes.
Performance improvement of perovskite solar cells by employing a CdSe quantum dot/PCBM composite as an electron transport layer
Authors: Zeng Xiaofeng , Zhou Tingwei , Leng Chongqian , Zang Zhigang , Wang Ming , Hu Wei , Tang Xiaosheng , Lu Shirong , Fang Liang , Zhou Miao
Published: July 2017

Organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite solar cells with a CdSe quantum dot/PCBM composite as an electron transport layer are reported by materials synthesis, characterization, device fabrication, performance measurements and large-scale first-principles calculations.
Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-coated sulfur for flexible and binder-free cathodes of lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Zhang Miao , Meng Qinghai , Ahmad Aziz , Mao Lijuan , Yan Wei , Wei Zhixiang
Published: July 2017

Flexible lithium–sulfur batteries are of great importance for flexible electronic systems. Herein, a diamond-shaped sulfur-containing composite for large-area flexible electrodes was prepared, and a prototype of flexible lithium–sulfur battery is successfully demonstrated.
Driving electrochemical oxygen reduction and hydrazine oxidation reaction by enzyme-inspired polymeric Cu(3,3′-diaminobenzidine) catalyst
Authors: He Fei , Mi Li , Shen Yanfei , Chen Xinghua , Yang Yiran , Mei Hao , Liu Songqin , Mori Toshiyuki , Zhang Yuanjian
Published: July 2017

Well-defined polymeric Cu(3,3′-diaminobenzidine) on carbon blackviaCu–N complexing and π–π interaction is developed as an excellent bioinspired bifunctional electrocatalyst.
Understanding charge transport and recombination losses in high performance polymer solar cells with non-fullerene acceptors
Authors: Zhang Xuning , Zuo Xiaobing , Xie Shenkun , Yuan Jianyu , Zhou Huiqiong , Zhang Yuan
Published: July 2017

Photovoltaic characteristics, recombination and charge transport properties are investigated. The determined recombination reduction factor can reconcile the supreme device performance in organic solar cells using non-fullerene ITIC acceptor and severe carrier losses in all-polymer devices with P(NDI2OD-T2).
A novel silver-containing absorbent wound dressing based on spacer fabric
Authors: Yang Yadie , Bechtold Thomas , Redl Bernhard , Caven Barnaby , Hu Hong
Published: July 2017

Silver-containing wound dressing based on spacer fabric promotes exuding wound healing through absorbing exudates, keeping moisture, killing bacteria and reducing silver contacting with wound.
Targeted delivery of siRNA using RGDfC-conjugated functionalized selenium nanoparticles for anticancer therapy
Authors: Xia Yu , Lin Zhengfang , Li Yinghua , Zhao Mingqi , Wang Changbing , Guo Min , Zhang Bo , Zhu Bing
Published: July 2017

Preparation of cancer-targeted functionalized selenium nanoparticles loaded with siRNA and their further mechanism in inhibiting tumor growth.
Poly(amidoamine) dendrimers grafted on electrospun poly(acrylic acid)/poly(vinyl alcohol) membranes for host–guest encapsulation of antioxidant thymol
Authors: Amariei Georgiana , Boltes Karina , Letón Pedro , Iriepa Isabel , Moraleda Ignacio , Rosal Roberto
Published: July 2017

Amino-terminated PAMAM dendrimers were grafted onto poly(acrylic acid)/poly(vinyl alcohol) electrospun fibres to create a host–guest architecture for the controlled delivery of the antioxidant thymol.
Implementation of a stratified approach and gene immobilization to enhance the osseointegration of a silk-based ligament graft
Authors: Fan Jiabing , Sun Liguo , Chen Xiaonan , Qu Ling , Li Hongguo , Liu Xincheng , Zhang Yushen , Cheng Pengzhen , Fan Hongbin
Published: July 2017

Integration of a stratified approach and gene immobilization promotes silk-based ACL interface formation, expanding the therapeutic potential of a silk-based ligament graft.
Real-time storage of thermal signals in organic memory with floating core–shell nanoparticles
Authors: Zhou Ye , Zhou Li , Yan Yan , Han Su-Ting , Zhuang Jiaqing , Sun Qi-Jun , Roy V. A. L.
Published: July 2017

Real-time storage of thermal signals in organic memory devices has been achieved with micro-contact printed Au@Pd core–shell nanoparticles floating on plastic substrates.
All nanoparticle-based P(MMA–AA)/TiO2 one-dimensional photonic crystal films with tunable structural colors
Authors: Wang Lin , Zhang Shufen , Lutkenhaus Jodie L. , Chu Lin , Tang Bingtao , Li Shuang , Ma Wei
Published: July 2017

All nanoparticle-based P(MMA–AA)/TiO2 1DPCs with functional structural colors were fabricated using an aqueous-based and environmentally friendly spin-assisted LbL process.
Large tunable luminescence by Mn(ii) aggregates in Mn-doped ZnS nanobelts
Authors: Kamran Muhammad Arshad , Majid Abdul , Alharbi Thamer , Iqbal Muhammad Waqas , Amjad Muhammad Waleed , Nabi Ghulam , Zou Shuangyang , Zou Bingsuo
Published: July 2017

Tunable emission from the visible to infrared region in II–VI semiconductor nanostructures makes them ideal candidates for the development of optoelectronic devices.
A planar C3Ca2 film: a novel 2p Dirac half metal
Authors: Ji Wei-xiao , Zhang Bao-min , Zhang Shu-feng , Zhang Chang-wen , Ding Meng , Li Ping , Wang Pei-ji
Published: July 2017

A novel planar 2p Dirac half metal C3Ca2 is presented based on density functional calculation.
A heterometallic sodium–europium-cluster-based metal–organic framework as a versatile and water-stable chemosensor for antibiotics and explosives
Authors: Han Min-Le , Wen Guo-Xuan , Dong Wen-Wen , Zhou Zhi-Hang , Wu Ya-Pan , Zhao Jun , Li Dong-Sheng , Ma Lu-Fang , Bu Xianhui
Published: July 2017

A stable luminescent MOF, constructed from a novel Eu2Na cluster and tricarboxylate, has been synthesized into a cubic framework and demonstrated to be the first known MOF for the selective detection of ornidazole antibiotics.
Cell to rodent: toxicological profiling of folate grafted thiomer enveloped nanoliposomes
Authors: Sohail Muhammad Farhan , Sarwar Hafiz Shoaib , Javed Ibrahim , Nadhman Akhtar , Hussain Syed Zajif , Saeed Hamid , Raza Abida , Irfan Bukhari Nadeem , Hussain Irshad , Shahnaz Gul
Published: July 2017

Polymeric nanomaterials, hybridized with lipid components,e.g.phosphocholine or fatty acids, are currently being explored for efficient nano-platforms for hydrophobic drugs.
Gaps and rings carved by vortices in protoplanetary dust
Authors: Barge Pierre , Ricci Luca , Carilli Christopher Luke , Previn-Ratnasingam Rathish
Published: July 2017

Context. Large-scale vortices in protoplanetary disks are thought to form and survive for long periods of time. Hence, they can significantly change the global disk evolution and particularly the distribution of the solid particles embedded in the gas, possibly explaining asymmetries and dust concentrations recently observed at submillimeter and millimeter wavelengths.

Aims. We investigate the spatial distribution of dust grains using a simple model of protoplanetary disk hosted by a giant gaseous vortex. We explore the dependence of the results on grain size and deduce possible consequences and predictions for observations of the dust thermal emission at submillimeter and millimeter wavelengths.

Methods. Global 2D simulations with a bi-fluid code are used to follow the evolution of a single population of solid particles aerodynamically coupled to the gas. Possible observational signatures of the dust thermal emission are obtained using simulators of ALMA and Nest Generation Very Large Array (ngVLA) observations.

Results. We find that a giant vortex not only captures dust grains with Stokes number St< 1 but can also affect the distribution of larger grains (with St ~ 1) carving a gap associated with a ring composed of incompletely trapped particles. The results are presented for different particle sizes and associated with their possible signatures in disk observations.

Conclusions. Gap clearing in the dust spatial distribution could be due to the interaction with a giant gaseous vortex and their associated spiral waves without the gravitational assistance of a planet. Hence, strong dust concentrations at short sub-mm wavelengths associated with a gap and an irregular ring at longer mm and cm wavelengths could indicate the presence of an unseen gaseous vortex.
Formal Nucleophilic Silyl Substitution of Aryl Halides with Silyllithium Reagents via Halogenophilic Attack of Silyl Nucleophiles
Authors: Ito Hajime , Yamamoto Eiji , Ukigai Satoshi
Published: July 2017

A new reaction has been developed for the formal nucleo­philic silyl substitution of aryl halides with silyllithium or silylpotassium reagents. Dimethylphenylsilyllithium reacted with various aryl halides to form the corresponding arylsilanes in moderate to good yields with concomitant formation of the disilanes under the optimized reaction conditions. Mechanistic studies indicated that this silyl substitution reaction progresses through polar halogenophilic attack of silyl nucleo­philes.
One-Pot Coupling–Cyclization–Alkylation Synthesis of 1,2,5-Trisubstituted 7-Azaindoles in a Consecutive Three-component Fashion
Authors: Lessing Timo , Müller Thomas
Published: July 2017

1,2,5-Trisubstituted 7-azaindoles are rapidly and efficiently prepared in a one-pot, copper-free alkynylation–cyclization–alkylation sequence starting from unprotected 2-aminopyridyl halides in a consecutive three-component fashion. By extension to a consecutive four-component coupling–cyclization–iodination–alkylation synthesis of 3-iodo-1-methyl-2-phenyl-1H-pyrrolo[2,3-b]pyridine, a concise synthesis of SIS3, a selective TGF-β1 and signaling inhibitor, was realized.
Cranioplasty for the Relief of Chronic Pain: 70 Years after the Debridement of the War-Penetrating Craniocerebral Injury
Authors: Vuk Aleksić , Milan Spaić
Published: July 2017

We report the case of a 75-year-old female patient who underwent primary debridement of the penetrating craniocerebral injury at the age of 5 years. The injury was caused by the explosive shrapnel wound in the parietal right-side region because of an air raid in Yugoslavia in 1944 during World War II (WWII) combat. The scull defect that remained was not repaired. The patient developed the severe allodinic pain syndrome in the skin over the cranial defect, 70 years after the surgery. The skin over the cranial defect was infolded inside the skull and stretched over the bony ridge. The pain was relieved by cranioplasty that restored the cranial vault and reversed the infolding skin over the craniectomy defect. The mechanism of the pain and its relation with the morphologic changes of the primary craniectomy and brain debridement over time are discussed.
Results of Distal Nerve Transfers in Restoration of Shoulder Function in C5 and C6 Root Avulsion Injury to the Brachial Plexus
Authors: Bhandari Prem
Published: July 2017

Background The lack of shoulder function following brachial plexus injury is a debilitating condition. Nerve root avulsion injury precludes a direct nerve repair. Under these circumstances, distal nerve transfer is a well-established technique in the restoration of shoulder abduction and external rotation.

Methods Thirty patients with C5 and C6 root avulsion injury were treated with distal nerve transfers in the period between February 2009 and December 2012.The average denervation period was 5.6 months. Shoulder function was restored by posterior transfer of distal part of the spinal accessory nerve into the suprascapular nerve and transfer of the long head triceps branch of radial nerve to the anterior branch of axillary nerve. An additional nerve transfer was performed in four patients with winged scapula by transferring a part of thoracodorsal nerve into the long thoracic nerve.

Results Twenty-seven patients recovered shoulder abduction; 18 scored M4 and 9 scored M3. Range of abduction averaged 118 degrees (range, 90–170 degrees). Nineteen patients restored external rotation with an average of 53 degrees (range: 30–70 degrees). Three patients failed to recover shoulder abduction though the joint regained stability. External rotation remained severely restricted in 11 patients. At final follow-up, winging of scapula improved in three of four patients following reinnervation of the serratus anterior muscle.

Conclusion Nerve transfers, when performed close to the target muscles, restore good range and strength of shoulder abduction in most patients with C5 and C6 root avulsion injuries. However, return in external rotation is not as good as the recovery in abduction.
Long-Term Outcomes and Quality of Life in Patients after Soave Pull-Through Operation for Hirschsprung's Disease: An Observational Retrospective Study
Authors: Mahler Tania , Dassonville Martine , Truong Dinh , Robert Annie , Goyens Philippe , Steyaert Henri , Tran Viet
Published: July 2017

Introduction Patients after pull-through operation for Hirschsprung's disease (HD) are at high risk of defecation disorders. This study aimed at investigating their long-term outcomes and quality of life (QoL) in comparison with controls.

Patients and Methods Patients older than 5 years operated on for HD were interviewed to complete detailed questionnaires on bowel function. Patients without neurologic impairment were enrolled in a QoL survey to compare with controls matched for sex and age and selected randomly from the general population using sampling set in a ratio of four controls to one case of HD.

Results In total, 53 operated patients were enrolled. Mean age of the patients was 16 ± 8 years, with 68% boys. Rectosigmoid aganglionosis was the most seen form of HD in 38 (72%) cases. Open Soave was performed in 40 (75.5%) cases, and minimally invasive surgery Soave (MIS Soave) in 13 (24.5%) cases. At investigation, prevalence of fecal incontinence and constipation were 22.6 and 13.2%, respectively. Regarding QoL survey, 45 patients and 180 controls were enrolled, excluding 8 patients with neurologic impairment. Thirty-seven (82.2%) patients were classified as having a good QoL (score ≥ 9 points); whereas six had a fair QoL (5–8 points) and two had a poor QoL (< 5 points). QoL score in the cases and the controls were 10.2 ± 2.5 and 11.9 ± 0.4 points, respectively. Long aganglionosis form of HD was significantly associated with a low QoL (score < 8 points), adjusted odds ratio = 9, 95% confidence interval [1.3; 64.1] (p < 0.05). In subscales analyses, the prevalence of each dimension including fecal continence, school absenteeism, unhappiness or anxiety, food restriction, and peer rejection was significantly higher in operated patients than in controls (p <0.001).

Conclusion Although the QoL of patients operated on for HD in general was with good outcomes, fecal incontinence and constipation still are problematic issues and challenges in a high percentage of patients. Therefore, a long-term and multidisciplinary follow-up is essentially required for these patients.
Implantation of a Novel Cryopreserved Viable Osteochondral Allograft for Articular Cartilage Repair in the Knee
Authors: Vangsness C. , Higgs Geoffrey , Hoffman James , Farr Jack , Davidson Philip , Milstein Farrell , Geraghty Sandra
Published: July 2017

Restoration and repair of articular cartilage injuries remain a challenge for orthopaedic surgeons. The standard first-line treatment of articular cartilage lesions is marrow stimulation; however, this procedure can often result in the generation of fibrous repair cartilage rather than the biomechanically superior hyaline cartilage. Marrow stimulation is also often limited to smaller lesions, less than 2 cm2. Larger lesions may require implantation of a fresh osteochondal allograft, though a short shelf life, size-matched donor requirements, potential challenges of bone healing, limited availability, and the relatively high price limit the wide use of this therapeutic approach. We present a straightforward, single-stage surgical technique of a novel reparative and restorative approach for articular cartilage repair with the implantation of a cryopreserved viable osteochondral allograft (CVOCA). The CVOCA contains full-thickness articular cartilage and a thin layer of subchondral bone, and maintains the intact native cartilage architecture with viable chondrocytes, growth factors, and extracellular matrix proteins to promote articular cartilage repair. We report the results of a retrospective case series of three patients who presented with articular cartilage lesions more than 2 cm2 and were treated with the CVOCA using the presented surgical technique. Patients were followed up to 2 years after implantation of the CVOCA and all three patients had satisfactory outcomes without adverse events. Controlled randomized studies are suggested for evaluation of CVOCA efficacy, safety, and long-term outcomes.
Neonatal Central Nervous System Infection
Authors: Desai Sunali , Ellika Shehanaz
Published: July 2017

In this review article, neuroimaging features of common bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic infections of the pediatric central nervous system (CNS) are discussed. Imaging modalities used by pediatric neuroradiologists include cranial ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). After a brief discussion of the clinical presentation of each disease entity, imaging strategies and findings are reviewed. The role of advanced neuroimaging techniques is discussed wherever appropriate.
Genetic and Environmental Risk Factors for Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Makhani Naila , George Ilena
Published: July 2017

Both genetic and environmental risk factors may contribute to risk of multiple sclerosis (MS) in children. Genetic risk factors include the presence of the human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-DRB1*1501 allele and other non-HLA single nucleotide polymorphisms. Environmental risk factors include parental smoking, low serum vitamin D levels, and prior exposure to Epstein–Barr virus. Some of these risk factors not only confer increased susceptibility to MS but may also alter the course of the disease. How different risk factors interact is a growing area of research. In this review, we examine the current literature regarding the genetic and environmental risk factors for MS in children.
Abnormal Placental Cord Insertion and Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes: Results from a Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Hannigan Ailish , Kelehan Peter , O'Donoghue Keelin , Cotter Amanda , Ismail Khadijah
Published: July 2017

Objectives To prospectively measure the distance from the placental cord insertion (PCI) site to the placental margin using digital imaging and to examine the association between abnormal PCI and adverse pregnancy outcomes in singleton pregnancies.

Study Design This prospective cohort study examined 1,005 placentas from consecutively delivered singleton pregnancies in a tertiary center. Standardized images of each placenta were taken and digital measurement was performed using ImageJ software.

Results The rates of velamentous (insertion into the membrane) and marginal (<2 cm from placental margin) cord insertions in a total of 1,005 singleton pregnancies were 3.6% (n  =  36; 95% confidence interval [CI]  =  2.5–4.9%) and 6.4% (n  =  64; 95% CI  =  4.9–8.1%), respectively. Abnormal PCI was found to be more common among smokers compared with non-smokers (22.7 vs. 14.8%, p = 0.04). Abnormal PCI was found to be significantly associated with small for gestational age (adjusted odds ratio [OR]: 1.73; 95% CI: 1.01–2.97, p = 0.047) and low birth weight (adjusted OR: 3.87; 95% CI: 1.72–8.71, p = 0.001).

Conclusion Digital imaging analysis using ImageJ software mapped the surface of the placenta and provided objective measurement of PCI site. In this large prospective cohort, abnormal PCIs were significantly associated with an increased risk of small for gestational age and low birth weight.
The Stem-Cell Market for the Treatment of Knee Osteoarthritis: A Patient Perspective
Authors: Piuzzi Nicolas , Ng Mitchell , Chughtai Morad , Khlopas Anton , Ng Kenneth , Mont Michael , Muschler George
Published: July 2017

The use of stem-cell therapies for the treatment of various musculoskeletal conditions, especially knee osteoarthritis (OA), is rapidly expanding, despite only low-level evidence to support its use. Centers offering these therapies are often marketing and charging patients out-of-pocket costs for such services. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the current marketed: (1) prices and (2) clinical efficacy of stem-cell therapies for knee OA. This was a prospective cross-sectional study which queried 317 U.S. centers that offered direct-to-consumer stem-cell therapies for musculoskeletal conditions. A total of 273 of 317 centers were successfully contacted via phone or e-mail, using a simulated 57-year-old male patient with knee OA. Scripted questions were asked by the simulated patient to determine the marketed prices and clinical efficacy. Centers generally reported the proportion of patients who had “good results” or “symptomatic improvement.” The mean price of a unilateral (same-day) stem-cell knee injection was $5,156 with a standard deviation of $2,446 (95% confidence interval [CI]: $4,550–5,762, n = 65). The mean proportion of claimed clinical efficacy was 82% with a standard deviation of 9.6% (95% CI: 79.0–85.5%, n = 36). Most American stem-cell centers offer therapies for knee OA. The cost of these therapies averages about $5,000 per injection, and centers claim that 80% of the patients had “good results” or “symptomatic improvement,” denoting a gap between what is documented in the published literature and the marketing claims. These findings offer both patients and physicians insight into the current stem-cell market for knee OA. We hope that with this information, providers can more optimally make patients aware of discrepancies between what is being marketed versus the current evidence-based landscape of these therapies for knee OA.