bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Overweight status is associated with extensive signs of microvascular dysfunction and cardiovascular risk
Authors: Patel Sunni R. , Bellary Srikanth , Karimzad Said , Gherghel Doina
Published: August 2016

The aim of this present study was to investigate if overweight individuals exhibit signs of vascular dysfunction associated with a high risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). One hundred lean and 100 overweight participants were recruited for the present study. Retinal microvascular function was assessed using the Dynamic Retinal Vessel Analyser (DVA), and systemic macrovascular function by means of flow-mediated dilation (FMD). Investigations also included body composition, carotid intimal-media thickness (c-IMT), ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (BP), fasting plasma glucose, triglycerides (TG), cholesterol levels (HDL-C and LDL-C), and plasma von Willebrand factor (vWF). Overweight individuals presented with higher right and left c-IMT (p = 0.005 and p = 0.002, respectively), average 24-h BP values (all p < 0.001), plasma glucose (p = 0.008), TG (p = 0.003), TG: HDL-C ratio (p = 0.010), and vWF levels (p = 0.004). Moreover, overweight individuals showed lower retinal arterial microvascular dilation (p = 0.039) and baseline-corrected flicker (bFR) responses (p = 0.022), as well as, prolonged dilation reaction time (RT, p = 0.047). These observations emphasise the importance of vascular screening and consideration of preventive interventions to decrease vascular risk in all individuals with adiposity above normal range.
Experimental warming and precipitation interactively modulate the mortality rate and timing of spring emergence of a gallmaking Tephritid fly
Authors: Xi Xinqiang , Li Dongbo , Peng Youhong , Eisenhauer Nico , Sun Shucun
Published: August 2016

Global climate change is mostly characterized by temperature increase and fluctuating precipitation events, which may affect the spring phenology and mortality rate of insects. However, the interaction effect of temperature and precipitation on species performance has rarely been examined. Here we studied the response of the gall-making Tephritid fly Urophora stylata (Diptera: Tephritidae) to artificial warming, changes in precipitation and the presence of galls. Our results revealed a significant interaction effect of warming, precipitation and galls on the life-history traits of the focal species. Specifically, when the galls were intact, warming had no effect on the phenology and increased the mortality of the fly under decreased precipitation, but it significantly advanced the timing of adult emergence and had no effect on the mortality under increased precipitation. When galls were removed, warming significantly advanced the timing of emergence and increased fly mortality, but precipitation showed no effect on the phenology and mortality. In addition, gall removal significantly increased adult fresh mass for both females and males. Our results indicate that the effect of elevated temperature on the performance of species may depend on other environmental conditions, such as variations in precipitation and species traits like the formation of galls.
A toxin antitoxin system promotes the maintenance of the IncA/C-mobilizable Salmonella Genomic Island 1
Authors: Huguet Kevin T. , Gonnet Mathieu , Doublet Benoît , Cloeckaert Axel
Published: August 2016

The multidrug resistance Salmonella Genomic Island 1 (SGI1) is an integrative mobilizable element identified in several enterobacterial pathogens. This chromosomal island requires a conjugative IncA/C plasmid to be excised as a circular extrachromosomal form and conjugally mobilized in trans. Preliminary observations suggest stable maintenance of SGI1 in the host chromosome but paradoxically also incompatibility between SGI1 and IncA/C plasmids. Here, using a Salmonella enterica serovar Agona clonal bacterial population as model, we demonstrate that a Toxin-Antitoxin (TA) system encoded by SGI1 plays a critical role in its stable host maintenance when an IncA/C plasmid is concomitantly present. This system, designated sgiAT for Salmonella genomic island 1 Antitoxin and Toxin respectively, thus seems to play a stabilizing role in a situation where SGI1 is susceptible to be lost through plasmid IncA/C-mediated excision. Moreover and for the first time, the incompatibility between SGI1 and IncA/C plasmids was experimentally confirmed.
Comparison of Anatomical and Nonanatomical Hepatectomy for Colorectal Liver Metastasis: A Meta-Analysis of 5207 Patients
Authors: Tang Haowen , Li Bingmin , Zhang Haoyun , Dong Jiahong , Lu Wenping
Published: August 2016

It remains unclear whether hepatectomy for colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM) should be performed as anatomical resection (AR) or nonanatomical resection (NAR). The aim of this study is to compare the short- and long-term outcomes of AR and NAR for CRLM. PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library were systematically searched to identify eligible studies. Twenty one studies involving 5207 patients were analyzed: 3034 (58.3%) underwent AR procedure and 2173 (41.7%) underwent NAR procedure. The results showed that overall survival (OS, hazard ratio (HR) 1.06, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.95–1.18) and disease free survival (DFS, HR 1.11, 95% CI 0.99–1.24) did not differ significantly between AR and NAR. Duration of operation, postoperative morbidity and mortality were higher in AR than in NAR. There were no significant differences in blood loss and prevalence rate of postoperative positive margins (OR 0.79, 95% CI 0.37–1.52). Our analysis shows that AR does not seem to bring more prognostic benefits than NAR for the treatment of CRLM, and does seem to be inferior to NAR in terms of duration of operation, incidence of postoperative morbidity and mortality.
Cathodic-controlled and near-infrared organic upconverter for local blood vessels mapping
Authors: Yuan Chih-Hsien , Lee Chih-Chien , Liu Chun-Fu , Lin Yun-Hsuan , Su Wei-Cheng , Lin Shao-Yu , Chen Kuan-Ting , Li Yan-De , Chang Wen-Chang , Li Ya-Ze , Su Tsung-Hao , Liu Yu-Hsuan , Liu Shun-Wei
Published: August 2016

Organic materials are used in novel optoelectronic devices because of the ease and high compatibility of their fabrication processes. Here, we demonstrate a low-driving-voltage cathodic-controlled organic upconverter with a mapping application that converts near-infrared images to produce images of visible blood vessels. The proposed upconverter has a multilayer structure consisting of a photosensitive charge-generation layer (CGL) and a phosphorescent organic light-emitting diode (OLED) for producing clear images with a high resolution of 600 dots per inch. In this study, temperature-dependent electrical characterization was performed to analyze the interfacial modification of the cathodic-controlled upconverter. The result shows that the upconverter demonstrated a high conversion efficiency of 3.46% because of reduction in the injection barrier height at the interface between the CGL and the OLED.
A high-resolution time-depth view of dimethylsulphide cycling in the surface sea
Authors: Royer S.-J. , Galí M. , Mahajan A. S. , Ross O. N. , Pérez G. L. , Saltzman E. S. , Simó R.
Published: August 2016

Emission of the trace gas dimethylsulphide (DMS) from the ocean influences the chemical and optical properties of the atmosphere and the olfactory landscape for foraging marine birds, turtles and mammals. DMS concentration has been seen to vary across seasons and latitudes with plankton taxonomy and activity and following the seascape of ocean’s physics. However, whether and how does it vary at the time scales of meteorology and day-night cycles is largely unknown. Here we used high-resolution measurements over time and depth within coherent water patches in the open sea to show that DMS concentration responded rapidly but resiliently to mesoscale meteorological perturbation. Further, it varied over diel cycles in conjunction with rhythmic photobiological indicators in phytoplankton. Combining data and modelling, we show that sunlight switches and tunes the balance between net biological production and abiotic losses. This is an outstanding example of how biological diel rhythms affect biogeochemical processes.
TRIM14 inhibits hepatitis C virus infection by SPRY domain-dependent targeted degradation of the viral NS5A protein
Authors: Wang Shanshan , Chen Yongzhi , Li Chunfeng , Wu Yaoxing , Guo Lei , Peng Changwei , Huang Yueping , Cheng Genhong , Qin F. Xiao-Feng
Published: August 2016

Tripartite motif 14 (TRIM14) was reported to function as a mitochondrial signaling adaptor in mediating innate immune responses. However, the involvement of TRIM14 in host defense against viral infection and molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we demonstrated that enforced expression of TRIM14 could potently inhibit the infection and replication of HCV in hepatocytes, whereas TRIM14 knockout cells became more susceptible to HCV infection. Interestingly, further experiments revealed that such anti-HCV activity was independent of activating the NF-κB or interferon pathways but required the C-terminal SPRY domain of no signaling capacity. In searching for mechanisms how TRIM14 exerts its antiviral function we found that TRIM14 interacted with HCV encoded non-structural protein NS5A and could strongly induce its degradation dependent on the NS5A1 subdomain. Interestingly extensive domain mapping analyses revealed that NS5A degradation was mediated by the highly conserved SPRY domain of TRIM14, which might involve the K48 ubiquitination pathway. Collectively, our work uncovered a new mechanism responsible for host defense against HCV infection, and could potentially aid the development of novel anti-HCV therapeutics.
The CD63-Syntenin-1 Complex Controls Post-Endocytic Trafficking of Oncogenic Human Papillomaviruses
Authors: Gräßel Linda , Fast Laura Aline , Scheffer Konstanze D. , Boukhallouk Fatima , Spoden Gilles A. , Tenzer Stefan , Boller Klaus , Bago Ruzica , Rajesh Sundaresan , Overduin Michael , Berditchevski Fedor , Florin Luise
Published: August 2016

Human papillomaviruses enter host cells via a clathrin-independent endocytic pathway involving tetraspanin proteins. However, post-endocytic trafficking required for virus capsid disassembly remains unclear. Here we demonstrate that the early trafficking pathway of internalised HPV particles involves tetraspanin CD63, syntenin-1 and ESCRT-associated adaptor protein ALIX. Following internalisation, viral particles are found in CD63-positive endosomes recruiting syntenin-1, a CD63-interacting adaptor protein. Electron microscopy and immunofluorescence experiments indicate that the CD63-syntenin-1 complex controls delivery of internalised viral particles to multivesicular endosomes. Accordingly, infectivity of high-risk HPV types 16, 18 and 31 as well as disassembly and post-uncoating processing of viral particles was markedly suppressed in CD63 or syntenin-1 depleted cells. Our analyses also present the syntenin-1 interacting protein ALIX as critical for HPV infection and CD63-syntenin-1-ALIX complex formation as a prerequisite for intracellular transport enabling viral capsid disassembly. Thus, our results identify the CD63-syntenin-1-ALIX complex as a key regulatory component in post-endocytic HPV trafficking.
Anionic metabolite biosynthesis enhanced by potassium under dark, anaerobic conditions in cyanobacteria
Authors: Ueda Sakiko , Kawamura Yuhki , Iijima Hiroko , Nakajima Mitsuharu , Shirai Tomokazu , Okamoto Mami , Kondo Akihiko , Hirai Masami Yokota , Osanai Takashi
Published: August 2016

Potassium (K+) is an essential macronutrient for all living organisms including cyanobacteria. Cyanobacteria are a group of bacteria performing oxygenic photosynthesis, widely studied in basic and applied sciences. The primary metabolism of the unicellular cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 is altered by environmental conditions and it excretes organic acids and hydrogen under dark, anaerobic conditions. Here we demonstrated that K+ widely changes the primary carbon metabolism of this cyanobacterium. Succinate and lactate excretion from the cells incubated under dark, anaerobic conditions was enhanced in the presence of K+, while hydrogen production was repressed. The addition of K+ and the genetic manipulation of acetate kinase AckA and an RNA polymerase sigma factor SigE additively increased succinate and lactate production to 141.0 and 217.6 mg/L, which are 11 and 46 times, compared to the wild-type strain without K+, respectively. Intracellular levels of 2-oxoglutarate, succinate, fumarate and malate increased by K+ under dark, anaerobic conditions. This study provides the evidence of the considerable effect of K+ on the biosynthesis of anionic metabolites in a unicellular cyanobacterium.
Sensitive detection of miRNA by using hybridization chain reaction coupled with positively charged gold nanoparticles
Authors: Miao Xiangmin , Ning Xue , Li Zongbing , Cheng Zhiyuan
Published: August 2016

Positively charged gold nanoparticles (+)AuNPs can adsorb onto the negatively charged surface of single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) or double-stranded DNA (dsDNA). Herein, long-range dsDNA polymers could form based on the hybridization chain reaction (HCR) of two hairpin probes (H1 and H2) by using miRNA-21 as an initiator. (+)AuNPs could adsorb onto the negatively charged surface of such long-range dsDNA polymers based on the electrostatic adsorption, which directly resulted in the precipitation of (+)AuNPs and the decrease of (+)AuNPs absorption spectra. Under optimal conditions, miRNA-21 detection could be realized in the range of 20 pM-10 nM with a detection limit of 6.8 pM. In addition, (+)AuNPs used here are much more stable than commonly used negatively charged gold nanoparticles ((−)AuNPs) in mixed solution that contained salt, protein or other metal ions. Importantly, the assay could realize the detection of miRNA in human serum samples.
Response of plasmaspheric configuration to substorms revealed by Chang’e 3
Authors: He Han , Shen Chao , Wang Huaning , Zhang Xiaoxin , Chen Bo , Yan Jun , Zou Yongliao , Jorgensen Anders M. , He Fei , Yan Yan , Zhu Xiaoshuai , Huang Ya , Xu Ronglan
Published: August 2016

The Moon-based Extreme Ultraviolet Camera (EUVC) of the Chang’e 3 mission provides a global and instantaneous meridian view (side view) of the Earth’s plasmasphere. The plasmasphere is one inner component of the whole magnetosphere and the configuration of the plasmasphere is sensitive to magnetospheric activity (storms and substorms). However, the response of the plasmaspheric configuration to substorms is only partially understood and the EUVC observations provide a good opportunity to investigate this issue. By reconstructing the global plasmaspheric configuration based on the EUVC images observed during 20–22 April 2014, we show that in the observing period, the plasmasphere had three bulges which were located at different geomagnetic longitudes. The inferred midnight transit times of the three bulges, using the rotation rate of the Earth, coincide with the expansion phase of three substorms, which implies a causal relationship between the substorms and the formation of the three bulges on the plasmasphere. Instead of leading to plasmaspheric erosion as geomagnetic storms do, substorms initiated on the nightside of the Earth cause local inflation of the plasmasphere in the midnight region.
Bis-three-way junction nanostructure and DNA machineries for ultrasensitive and specific detection of BCR/ABL fusion gene by chemiluminescence imaging
Authors: Xu Yongjie , Bian Xintong , Sang Ye , Li Yujian , Li Dandan , Cheng Wei , Yin Yibing , Ju Huangxian , Ding Shijia
Published: August 2016

A novel G-quadruplex DNAzyme-driven chemiluminescence (CL) imaging method has been developed for ultrasensitive and specific detection of BCR/ABL fusion gene based on bis-three-way junction (bis-3WJ) nanostructure and cascade DNA machineries. Bis-3WJ probes are designed logically to recognize BCR/ABL fusion gene, which forms the stable bis-3WJ nanostructure for the activation of polymerase/nicking enzyme machineries in cascade, resulting in synthesis of DNAzyme subunits. These DNAzyme subunits can form integrated DNAzyme by self-assembly to catalyze CL substrate, thus providing an amplified signal for the sensing events or outputs for AND logic operation. The imaging method achieved ultrasensitive detection of BCR/ABL fusion gene with a low detection limit down to 23 fM. And this method exhibited wide linear ranges over seven orders of magnitude and excellent discrimination ability toward target. In addition, an acceptable recovery was obtained in complex matrix. It is notable that this biosensing strategy possesses merits of homogenous, isothermal and label-free assay system. Therefore, these merits endow the developed imaging method with a potential tool for CML diagnosis.
Oxidative stress response to acute hypobaric hypoxia and its association with indirect measurement of increased intracranial pressure: a field study
Authors: Strapazzon Giacomo , Malacrida Sandro , Vezzoli Alessandra , Dal Cappello Tomas , Falla Marika , Lochner Piergiorgio , Moretti Sarah , Procter Emily , Brugger Hermann , Mrakic-Sposta Simona
Published: August 2016

High altitude is the most intriguing natural laboratory to study human physiological response to hypoxic conditions. In this study, we investigated changes in reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress biomarkers during exposure to hypobaric hypoxia in 16 lowlanders. Moreover, we looked at the potential relationship between ROS related cellular damage and optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) as an indirect measurement of intracranial pressure. Baseline measurement of clinical signs and symptoms, biological samples and ultrasonography were assessed at 262 m and after passive ascent to 3830 m (9, 24 and 72 h). After 24 h the imbalance between ROS production (+141%) and scavenging (−41%) reflected an increase in oxidative stress related damage of 50–85%. ONSD concurrently increased, but regression analysis did not infer a causal relationship between oxidative stress biomarkers and changes in ONSD. These results provide new insight regarding ROS homeostasis and potential pathophysiological mechanisms of acute exposure to hypobaric hypoxia, plus other disease states associated with oxidative-stress damage as a result of tissue hypoxia.
Promising Nanocarriers for PEDF Gene Targeting Delivery to Cervical Cancer Cells Mediated by the Over-expressing FRα
Authors: Yang Yuhan , He Lili , Liu Yongmei , Xia Shan , Fang Aiping , Xie Yafei , Gan Li , He Zhiyao , Tan Xiaoyue , Jiang Chunling , Tong Aiping , Song Xiangrong
Published: August 2016

Cervical cancer presents extremely low PEDF expression which is associated with tumor progression and poor prognosis. In this study, folate receptor α (FRα)-targeted nano-liposomes (FLP) were designed to enhance the anti-tumor effect by targeting delivery of exogenous PEDF gene to cervical cancer cells. The targeting molecule F-PEG-Chol was firstly synthesized by a novel simpler method. FLP encapsulating PEDF gene (FLP/PEDF) with a typical lipid-membrane structure were prepared by a film dispersion method. The transfection experiment found FLP could effectively transfect human cervical cancer cells (HeLa cells). FLP/PEDF significantly inhibited the growth of HeLa cells and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC cells) and suppressed adhension, invasion and migration of HeLa cells in vitro. In the abdominal metastatic tumor model of cervical cancer, FLP/PEDF administered by intraperitoneal injection exhibited a superior anti-tumor effect probably due to the up-regulated PEDF. FLP/PEDF could not only sharply reduce the microvessel density but also dramatically inhibit proliferation and markedly induce apoptosis of tumor cells in vivo. Moreover, the preliminary safety investigation revealed that FLP/PEDF had no obvious toxicity. These results clearly showed that FLP were desired carriers for PEDF gene and FLP/PEDF might represent a potential novel strategy for gene therapy of cervical cancer.
In the darkness of the polar night, scallops keep on a steady rhythm
Authors: Tran Damien , Sow Mohamedou , Camus Lionel , Ciret Pierre , Berge Jorgen , Massabuau Jean-Charles
Published: August 2016

Although the prevailing paradigm has held that the polar night is a period of biological quiescence, recent studies have detected noticeable activity levels in marine organisms. In this study, we investigated the circadian rhythm of the scallop Chlamys islandica by continuously recording the animal’s behaviour over 3 years in the Arctic (Svalbard). Our results showed that a circadian rhythm persists throughout the polar night and lasts for at least 4 months. Based on observations across three polar nights, we showed that the robustness and synchronicity of the rhythm depends on the angle of the sun below the horizon. The weakest rhythm occurred at the onset of the polar night during the nautical twilight. Surprisingly, the circadian behaviour began to recover during the darkest part of the polar night. Because active rhythms optimize the fitness of an organism, our study brings out that the scallops C. islandica remain active even during the polar night.
Degradation of vicine, convicine and their aglycones during fermentation of faba bean flour
Authors: Rizzello Carlo Giuseppe , Losito Ilario , Facchini Laura , Katina Kati , Palmisano Francesco , Gobbetti Marco , Coda Rossana
Published: August 2016

In spite of its positive repercussions on nutrition and environment, faba bean still remains an underutilized crop due to the presence of some undesired compounds. The pyrimidine glycosides vicine and convicine are precursors of the aglycones divicine and isouramil, the main factors of favism, a genetic condition which may lead to severe hemolysis after faba bean ingestion. The reduction of vicine and convicine has been targeted in several studies but little is known about their degradation. In this study, the hydrolysis kinetics of vicine and convicine and their derivatives during fermentation with L. plantarum DPPMAB24W was investigated. In particular, a specific HPLC method coupled to ESI-MS and MS/MS analysis, including the evaluation procedure of the results, was set up as the analytical approach to monitor the compounds. The degradation of the pyrimidine glycosides in the fermented flour was complete after 48 h of incubation and the aglycone derivatives could not be detected in any of the samples. The toxicity of the fermented faba bean was established through ex-vivo assays on human blood, confirming the experimental findings. Results indicate that mild and cost effective bioprocessing techniques can be applied to detoxify faba bean also for industrial applications.
On the saliva proteome of the Eastern European house mouse (Mus musculus musculus) focusing on sexual signalling and immunity
Authors: Stopka Pavel , Kuntová Barbora , Klempt Petr , Havrdová Leona , Černá Martina , Stopková Romana
Published: August 2016

Chemical communication is mediated by sex-biased signals abundantly present in the urine, saliva and tears. Because most studies concentrated on the urinary signals, we aimed to determine the saliva proteome in wild Mus musculus musculus, to extend the knowledge on potential roles of saliva in chemical communication. We performed the gel-free quantitative LC-MS/MS analyses of saliva and identified 633 proteins with 134 (21%) of them being sexually dimorphic. They include proteins that protect and transport volatile organic compounds in their beta barrel including LCN lipocalins, major urinary proteins (MUPs) and odorant binding proteins (OBPs). To our surprise, the saliva proteome contains one MUP that is female biased (MUP8) and the two protein pheromones MUP20 (or ‘Darcin’) and ESP1 in individuals of both sex. Thus, contrary to previous assumptions, our findings reveal that these proteins cannot function as male-unique signals. Our study also demonstrates that many olfactory proteins (e.g. LCNs and OBPs) are not expressed by submandibular glands but are produced elsewhere–in nasal and lacrimal tissues and potentially also in other oro-facial glands. We have also detected abundant proteins that are involved in wound healing, immune and non-immune responses to pathogens, thus corroborating that saliva has important protective roles.
Biomimetic surface patterning for long-term transmembrane access
Authors: VanDersarl Jules J. , Renaud Philippe
Published: August 2016

Here we present a planar patch clamp chip based on biomimetic cell membrane fusion. This architecture uses nanometer length-scale surface patterning to replicate the structure and function of membrane proteins, creating a gigaohm seal between the cell and a planar electrode array. The seal is generated passively during cell spreading, without the application of a vacuum to the cell surface. This interface can enable cell-attached and whole-cell recordings that are stable to 72 hours and generates no visible damage to the cell. The electrodes can be very small (<5 μm) and closely packed, offering a high density platform for cellular measurement.
1000-fold enhancement in proton conductivity of a MOF using post-synthetically anchored proton transporters
Authors: Shalini Sorout , Dhavale Vishal M. , Eldho Kavalakal M. , Kurungot Sreekumar , Ajithkumar Thallaseril G. , Vaidhyanathan Ramanathan
Published: August 2016

Pyridinol, a coordinating zwitter-ionic species serves as stoichiometrically loadable and non-leachable proton carrier. The partial replacement of the pyridinol by stronger hydrogen bonding, coordinating guest, ethylene glycol (EG), offers 1000-fold enhancement in conductivity (10−6 to 10−3 Scm−1) with record low activation energy (0.11 eV). Atomic modeling coupled with 13C-SSNMR provides insights into the potential proton conduction pathway functionalized with post-synthetically anchored dynamic proton transporting EG moieties.
Brown-like adipose progenitors derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells: Identification of critical pathways governing their adipogenic capacity
Authors: Hafner Anne-Laure , Contet Julian , Ravaud Christophe , Yao Xi , Villageois Phi , Suknuntha Kran , Annab Karima , Peraldi Pascal , Binetruy Bernard , Slukvin Igor I. , Ladoux Annie , Dani Christian
Published: August 2016

Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) show great promise for obesity treatment as they represent an unlimited source of brown/brite adipose progenitors (BAPs). However, hiPSC-BAPs display a low adipogenic capacity compared to adult-BAPs when maintained in a traditional adipogenic cocktail. The reasons of this feature are unknown and hamper their use both in cell-based therapy and basic research. Here we show that treatment with TGFβ pathway inhibitor SB431542 together with ascorbic acid and EGF were required to promote hiPSCs-BAP differentiation at a level similar to adult-BAP differentiation. hiPSC-BAPs expressed the molecular identity of adult-UCP1 expressing cells (PAX3, CIDEA, DIO2) with both brown (ZIC1) and brite (CD137) adipocyte markers. Altogether, these data highlighted the critical role of TGFβ pathway in switching off hiPSC-brown adipogenesis and revealed novel factors to unlock their differentiation. As hiPSC-BAPs display similarities with adult-BAPs, it opens new opportunities to develop alternative strategies to counteract obesity.
Bacillus as a potential diagnostic marker for yellow tongue coating
Authors: Ye Juan , Cai Xueting , Yang Jie , Sun Xiaoyan , Hu Chunping , Xia Junquan , Shen Jianping , Su Kelei , Yan Huaijiang , Xu Yuehua , Zhang Yiyan , Zhang Sujie , Yang Lijun , Zhi Hao , Gao Sizhi Paul , Yu Qiang , Hu Jingqing , Cao Peng
Published: August 2016

Observation of tongue coating, a foundation for clinical diagnosis and treatment in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), is a major indicator of the occurrence, development and prognosis of disease. The biological basis of tongue diagnosis and relationship between the types and microorganisms of tongue coating remain elusive. Thirteen chronic erosive gastritis (CEG) patients with typical yellow tongue coating (YTC) and ten healthy volunteers with thin white tongue coating (WTC) were included in this study. Patients were provided a 2-course targeted treatment of a herbal medicine Ban Xia Xie Xin decoction, traditionally prescribed for CEG patients with YTC, to evaluate the relationship between tongue coating microbiota and diagnosis of CEG with typical YTC. The tongue coating segregation structure was determined using Illumina Miseq sequencing of the V4–V5 region of the 16S ribosomal RNA gene. Bacillus was significantly observed only in CEG patients with YTC, but not in patients who received the decoction. YTC (n = 22) and WTC (n = 29) samples were collected for bacterial culturing to illustrate the relationship between Bacillus and YTC. The Bacillus positivity rate of YTC samples was 72.7%; Bacillus was not observed in WTC samples. In conclusion, Bacillus was strongly associated with YTC.
Cadmium and lithium doping in silver orthophosphate: An ab initio study
Authors: Huang Yang , Liu Ming-Yang , Ma Tai , Lou Zhong-Ping , Cao Chao , He Yao
Published: August 2016

Using hybrid functional calculations, we investigate the effects of defects and defect complexes related with Cd, Li, and N impurities on the atomic and electronic properties of Ag3PO4. It was found that substitutional Cd on Ag lattice site (CdAg) contributes to the n-type conductivity of Ag3PO4. For substitutional Cd on P (or O) lattice site (CdP) (or CdO), it is not expected that Cd will incorporate into the P (or O) site due to the strong covalent interactions in the PO4 structural units. The interstitial Cd (Cdi) acts as a shallow donor, but its formation energy is relatively high compared with that of CdAg. For the (CdAg-2NO) complex, the formation of this inactive complex generates a fully occupied impurity band just above the valence band maximum of Ag3PO4, which significantly reduces the acceptor transition energy level. But the formation energy of the (CdAg-2NO) complex is even higher than that of the corresponding single point defect NO. Unlike LiP and LiO which has relatively high formation energy, interstitial Li (Lii or Lii(s)) with an appreciable solubility is likely to be the n-type dopant under O-poor condition.
Sensitive fluorescence detection of mercury(ii) in aqueous solution by the fluorescence quenching effect of MoS2 with DNA functionalized carbon dots
Authors: Srinivasan K. , Subramanian K. , Murugan K. , Dinakaran K.
Published: August 2016

Highly sensitive detection of mercury(ii) ions by using a fluorescence spectrometer using MoS2 nanosheets and DNA labeled carbon dots is presented.
An automatic and sensitive method for simultaneous determination of sixteen polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and four derivatives by online solid-phase extraction coupled with ultra-high performance liquid chromatography with online solvent filtration
Authors: Guo Feng , Rao Zhu , Zhan Nan , Li Gui-hong , Guo Xiao-chen , Liu Chen , Yang Zhi-peng , Song Shan-jun , Zuo Xia-long
Published: August 2016

An automatic and sensitive method for simultaneous determination of 16 PAHs and 4 derivatives by online SPE-UHPLC with online solvent filtration.
Establishment and validation of quantitative analysis of multi-components by a single marker for quality control of polygoni multiflori radix
Authors: Gao Dan , Li Yu-meng , Wang Na , Li Chun-yu , Zhang Cong-en , Bai Zhao-fang , Xiao Xiao-he , Gao Wei-wei , Wang Jia-bo
Published: August 2016

Quality control of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is one of the biggest challenges facing its clinical practice.
Colorimetric assay of homocysteine using gold nanoparticles conjugated with thermoresponsive copolymers
Authors: Uehara N.
Published: August 2016

Homocysteine was distinguished from cysteine and assayed by colorimetry with gold nanocomposites composed of 13 nm gold nanoparticles conjugated with thermoresponsive copolymers, poly(N-isopropylacrylamide-co-2-(dimethylamino)-ethylmethacrylate).
Inorganic–organic hybrid white light phosphors
Authors: Wang Ming-Sheng , Guo Guo-Cong
Published: August 2016

This feature article reviews the development of inorganic–organic hybrid white-light phosphors for the applications on light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs).
Enhancement of oxygen evolution performance through synergetic action between NiFe metal core and NiFeOx shell
Authors: Zhu Kaiyue , Li Mingrun , Li Xuning , Zhu Xuefeng , Wang Junhu , Yang Weishen
Published: August 2016

NiFe/NiFeOx core/shell electrocatalysts show excellent OER activity by taking advantage of the synergy between metal core and amorphous oxides shell.
Direct synthesis of sulfonated dihydroisoquinolinones from N-allylbenzamide and arylsulfinic acids via TBHP-promoted cascade radical addition and cyclization
Authors: Xia Dong , Li Yang , Miao Tao , Li Pinhua , Wang Lei
Published: August 2016

A novel tert-butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP)-promoted cascade radical addition and cyclization of N-allylbenzamides and arylsulfinic acids to sulfonated dihydroisoquinolinones was developed.
Rhodium/bisphosphine-thiourea-catalyzed enantioselective hydrogenation of α,β-unsaturated N-acylpyrazoles
Authors: Li Pan , Hu Xinquan , Dong Xiu-Qin , Zhang Xumu
Published: August 2016

We successfully extended our Rh/bisphosphine-thiourea (ZhaoPhos) catalytic system to asymmetric hydrogenation of α,β-unsaturated N-acylpyrazoles affording products with high yields and excellent enantioselectivities (up to 97% yield, 99% ee).
Hydrogen release reactions of Al-based complex hydrides enhanced by vibrational dynamics and valences of metal cations
Authors: Sato T. , Ramirez-Cuesta A. J. , Daemen L. , Cheng Y.-Q. , Tomiyasu K. , Takagi S. , Orimo S.
Published: August 2016

Inelastic neutron scattering spectra of LiCa(AlH4)3upon heating and the local atomic structure around [AlH4]−.
Highly hierarchical porous structures constructed from NiO nanosheets act as Li ion and O2pathways in long cycle life, rechargeable Li–O2batteries
Authors: Wang Chunge , Zhao Yanyan , Liu Jiandi , Gong Pingyun , Li Xin , Zhao Yacong , Yue Guanghui , Zhou Zhidong
Published: August 2016

Synthetic route and properties of flower-like NiO used as a cathodic catalyst in rechargeable Li–O2batteries.
Defect-induced ripening of zeolitic-imidazolate framework ZIF-8 and its implication to vapor-phase membrane synthesis
Authors: Kwon Hyuk Taek , Jeong Hae-Kwon , Lee Albert S. , An He Seong , Lee Taehee , Jang Eunhee , Lee Jong Suk , Choi Jungkyu
Published: August 2016

We report for the first time that ZIF-8 crystals undergo an Ostwald-ripening-like process without degradation in the presence of a ligand vapor.
Enantioselective synthesis of β-substituted chiral allylic amines via Rh-catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation
Authors: Wang Qingli , Gao Wenchao , Lv Hui , Zhang Xumu
Published: August 2016

Rh–DuanPhos complex-catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation of α-alkenyl substituted enamides has been developed, which provides a readily accessible approach to chiral allylic amines with excellent enantioselectivities and high regioselectivities.
Supramolecular aggregates as sensory ensembles
Authors: Wang Qian , Li Zhao , Tao Dan-Dan , Zhang Qian , Zhang Peng , Guo Dai-Ping , Jiang Yun-Bao
Published: August 2016

Recent research progress in sensing based on induced supramolecular aggregation or disaggregation.
Electrophoresis separation assisted G-quadruplex DNAzyme-based chemiluminescence signal amplification strategy on a microchip platform for highly sensitive detection of microRNA
Authors: Li Jian , Zhao Jingjin , Li Shuting , Zhang Liangliang , Huang Yong , Zhao Shulin , Liu Yi-Ming
Published: August 2016

An electrophoresis separation assisted G-quadruplex DNAzyme-based chemiluminescence signal amplification strategy on a microchip platform was developed for the detection of trace microRNA.
NIR absorbing diferrocene-containing meso-cyano-BODIPY with a UV-Vis-NIR spectrum remarkably close to that of magnesium tetracyanotetraferrocenyltetraazaporphyrin
Authors: Didukh Natalia O. , Zatsikha Yuriy V. , Rohde Gregory T. , Blesener Tanner S. , Yakubovskyi Viktor P. , Kovtun Yuriy P. , Nemykin Victor N.
Published: August 2016

Diferrocene-containing meso-cyano-BODIPY (4) was prepared and characterized by spectroscopy, X-ray crystallography, and DFT calculations.
Programmed photosensitizer conjugated supramolecular nanocarriers with dual targeting ability for enhanced photodynamic therapy
Authors: Tong Hongxin , Du Jianwei , Li Huan , Jin Qiao , Wang Youxiang , Ji Jian
Published: August 2016

A programmed multistage targeted supramolecular nanocarrier was developed for enhanced photodynamic therapy.
Supramolecular metallogels with bulk self-healing properties prepared by in situ metal complexation
Authors: Häring Marleen , Díaz David Díaz
Published: August 2016

In situmetal complexation emerges as a powerful strategy for the fabrication of supramolecular metallogels showing self-healing properties of the bulk gel phase after complete physical segregation.
Bismuth oxide as a high capacity anode material for sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Kim Min-Kun , Yu Seung-Ho , Jin Aihua , Kim Jin , Ko In-Hwan , Lee Kug-Seung , Mun Junyoung , Sung Yung-Eun
Published: August 2016

A bismuth oxide electrode, delivering high capacity, as an anode material for sodium-ion batteries was simply prepared.
Visualising coordination chemistry: fluorescence X-ray absorption near edge structure tomography
Authors: James S. A. , Burke R. , Howard D. L. , Spiers K. M. , Paterson D. J. , Murphy S. , Ramm G. , Kirkham R. , Ryan C. G. , de Jonge M. D.
Published: August 2016

Here we develop a measurement scheme to determine the abundance, distribution, and coordination environment of biological copper complexesin situ, without need for complex sample preparation.
A lysosome-targeted fluorescent sensor for the detection of glutathione in cells with an extremely fast response
Authors: Huang Rong , Wang Bei-Bei , Si-Tu Xing-Ming , Gao Tao , Wang Fang-Fang , He Huan , Fan Xiao-Yang , Jiang Feng-Lei , Liu Yi
Published: August 2016

A Rhodamine B-based off–on fluorescent sensor (RhB-1) for GSH has an extremely fast detection response time of 10 s in aqueous solutions.
A perovskite-type cage compound as a temperature-triggered dielectric switchable material
Authors: Qian Kun , Shao Feng , Yan Zhihong , Pang Jie , Chen Xiaodong , Yang Changxin
Published: August 2016

The perovskite-type cage compound [C3H6NH2]2[KCoIII(CN)6] shows a temperature-triggered dielectric switch. The switchable properties are derived from an order–disorder phase transition of a system, by changing the motions of the polar azetidine cation guests.
Activity and conformation of lysozyme in molecular solvents, protic ionic liquids (PILs) and salt–water systems
Authors: Wijaya Emmy C. , Separovic Frances , Drummond Calum J. , Greaves Tamar L.
Published: August 2016

The role of solvent features on enzyme stability was investigated by comparing the conformation and activity of lysozyme in molecular solvents, PILs and salt solutions. Electrostatic interactions and the solvophobic effect dominated at low and high solvent concentrations, respectively.
Observation of a new channel, the production of CH3, in the abstraction reaction of OH radicals with acetaldehyde
Authors: Howes Neil U. M. , Lockhart James P. A. , Blitz Mark A. , Carr Scott A. , Baeza-Romero Maria Teresa , Heard Dwayne E. , Shannon Robin J. , Seakins Paul W. , Varga T.
Published: August 2016

Methyl radicals (15% at 1–2 Torr He) have been detected as primary products from the reaction of OH radicals with acetaldehyde.
Tuning thermal transport in Si nanowires by isotope engineering
Authors: Royo Miquel , Rurali Riccardo
Published: August 2016

The thermal conductivity of28Six30Si1−xnanowires is reduced up to ∼20% (∼50%) at room (low) temperature with respect to isotope purfied nanowires.
Metallic nanowires and mesoscopic networks on a free surface of superfluid helium and charge-shuttling across the liquid–gas interface
Authors: Moroshkin P. , Batulin R. , Leiderer P. , Kono K.
Published: August 2016

Metallic nanoparticles trapped at a free surface of superfluid helium coalesce into a centimeter-sized networks.
Effect of chain microstructure on self-assembly and emulsification of amphiphilic poly(acrylic acid)-polystyrene copolymers
Authors: Zhu Ye , Yi Chenglin , Hu Qiong , Wei Wei , Liu Xiaoya
Published: August 2016

In this study, a series of random copolymer poly(acrylic acid-co-styrene) (P(AA-co-St)) and block copolymer poly(acrylic acid)-b-polystyrene (PAA-b-PSt) with similar chemical composition but different chain microstructure were synthesized.
Retracted Article: Facile synthesis of hierarchical Mn3O4 superstructures and efficient catalytic performance
Authors: Hu Zhixiang , Chen Dayong , Dong Jingyu , Li Qi , Chen Zhiwen , Yin Dongguang , Zhao Bing , Wu C. M. Lawrence , Shek Chan-Hung
Published: August 2016

Mn3O4 hausmannite structures with uniform three-dimensional flower-like hierarchical superstructures have been successfully synthesized by using surfactants as structure-directing agents.
Copper(i) chloride catalysed room temperature Csp–Csp homocoupling of terminal alkynes mediated by visible light
Authors: Sagadevan Arunachalam , Charpe Vaibhav Pramod , Hwang Kuo Chu
Published: August 2016

An eco-friendly approach to the Csp–Csp homocoupling of terminal alkynes (including electron-withdrawing groups) was achieved at room temperature via a copper(i) chloride catalysed process mediated by visible light.
Novel proposition on mechanism aspects over Fe–Mn/ZSM-5 catalyst for NH3-SCR of NOx at low temperature: rate and direction of multifunctional electron-transfer-bridge and in situ DRIFTs analysis
Authors: Mu Wentao , Zhu Jing , Zhang Shen , Guo Yuyu , Su Liqing , Li Xingying , Li Zhe
Published: August 2016

Most outstanding activities achieved over 15Fe–Mn/ZSM-5 catalyst on account of synergistic effects between RMETB and DMETB.
Ru nanoparticles supported on nitrogen-doped porous carbon derived from ZIF-8 as an efficient catalyst for the selective hydrogenation of p-chloronitrobenzene and p-bromonitrobenzene
Authors: Li Xinlin , Zhao Shiling , Zhang Wei , Liu Yansheng , Li Rong
Published: August 2016

Ruthenium (Ru) nanoparticles (NPs) are supported on nitrogen-doped porous carbon (NPC) derived from metal–organic-framework (MOF) ZIF-8 for the first time.
Octahedral molybdenum cluster complexes with aromatic sulfonate ligands
Authors: Efremova Olga A. , Vorotnikov Yuri A. , Brylev Konstantin A. , Vorotnikova Natalya A. , Novozhilov Igor N. , Kuratieva Natalia V. , Edeleva Mariya V. , Benoit David M. , Kitamura Noboru , Mironov Yuri V. , Shestopalov Michael A. , Sutherland Andrew J.
Published: August 2016

Synthesis, structure and systematic study of the redox and spectroscopic properties of [{Mo6X8}(aromatic sulfonate)6]2−.
Microbial toxicity and biodegradability of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and shorter chain perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs)
Authors: Ochoa-Herrera Valeria , Field Jim A. , Luna-Velasco Antonia , Sierra-Alvarez Reyes
Published: August 2016

Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and related perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are emerging contaminants that have been widely applied in consumer and industrial applications for decades.
Guidance to improve the scientific value of zeta-potential measurements in nanoEHS
Authors: Lowry Gregory V. , Hill Reghan J. , Harper Stacey , Rawle Alan F. , Hendren Christine Ogilvie , Klaessig Fred , Nobbmann Ulf , Sayre Philip , Rumble John
Published: August 2016

Nanoparticle zeta potentials are easy to measure and proposed as a required property for complete nanoparticle characterization, but relevant metadata must be reported with zeta potential to be scientifically useful.
Lipidomic approach in young adult triathletes: effect of supplementation with a polyphenols-rich juice on neuroprostane and F2-dihomo-isoprostane markers
Authors: García-Flores Libia Alejandra , Medina Sonia , Oger Camille , Galano Jean-Marie , Durand Thierry , Cejuela Roberto , Martínez-Sanz José Miguel , Ferreres Federico , Gil-Izquierdo Ángel
Published: August 2016

With adequate training, our juice rich in polyphenolic compounds has been able to influence the excretion values of oxidative stress biomarkers associated with the central nervous system.
Effect of consumption of a carob pod inositol-enriched beverage on insulin sensitivity and inflammation in middle-aged prediabetic subjects
Authors: Bañuls Celia , Rovira-Llopis Susana , López-Doménech Sandra , Veses Silvia , Víctor Víctor M. , Rocha Milagros , Hernández-Mijares Antonio
Published: August 2016

This study assessed the effects of an inositol-enriched beverage (IEB) on blood glucose levels and inflammation status in subjects with an impaired fasting glucose (IFG) state according to body mass index (BMI).
A metal-free, high nitrogen-doped nanoporous graphitic carbon catalyst for an effective aerobic HMF-to-FDCA conversion
Authors: Nguyen Chi Van , Liao Yu-Te , Kang Ting-Cih , Chen Jeffrey E. , Yoshikawa Takuya , Nakasaka Yuta , Masuda Takao , Wu Kevin C.-W.
Published: August 2016

Nanoporous carbon nanoparticles with high graphitic nitrogen amounts were synthesized and used as a metal free catalyst for effective HMF-to-FDCA conversion.
A one-step strategy for ultra-fast and low-cost mass production of plastic membrane microfluidic chips
Authors: Hu Chong , Lin Sheng , Li Wanbo , Sun Han , Chen Yangfan , Chan Chiu-Wing , Leung Chung-Hang , Ma Dik-Lung , Wu Hongkai , Ren Kangning
Published: August 2016

A PE membrane and an EVA-coated PET membrane are piled up. When pressed by a heated non-stick stamp, the two membranes bond together, and the PE membrane spontaneously rises at the area not pressed, forming flexible microchannels within 12 seconds.
An LC-MS based untargeted metabolomics study identified novel biomarkers for coronary heart disease
Authors: Li Ruijun , Li Fengyu , Feng Qiang , Liu Zhipeng , Jie Zhuye , Wen Bo , Xu Xun , Zhong Shilong , Li Guanglei , He Kunlun
Published: August 2016

This work leads to candidate diagnosis biomarker discovery in coronary heart disease which can be developed as a non-invasive and feasible method for CHD diagnosis.
Molecular insight on the binding of NNRTI to K103N mutated HIV-1 RT: molecular dynamics simulations and dynamic pharmacophore analysis
Authors: Nizami Bilal , Sydow Dominique , Wolber Gerhard , Honarparvar Bahareh
Published: August 2016

Regardless of advances in anti-HIV therapy, HIV infection remains an immense challenge due to the rapid onset of mutation instigating drug resistance.
Modeling the permeability of drug-like molecules through the cell wall of Mycobacterium tuberculosis: an analogue based approach
Authors: Janardhan Sridhara , Ram Vivek M. , Narahari Sastry G.
Published: August 2016

Predictive permeability models, based on compounds obtained from the cell- and enzyme-based data of Mtb inhibitors, have been developed.
Vanadium bromoperoxidase (VBrPO) mimics: synthesis, structure and a comparative account of the catalytic activity of newly synthesized oxidovanadium and oxido-peroxidovanadium complexes
Authors: Palmajumder Eshita , Patra Swarup , Drew Michael G. B. , Mukherjea Kalyan K.
Published: August 2016

The catalytic peroxidative bromination (VBrPO mimic) of organic substances by oxido and oxido-peroxidovanadium complexes suggests the superiority of the oxido-peroxido complex over the oxido one.
Fabrication of a label-free electrochemical immunosensor using a redox active ferrocenyl dendrimer
Authors: Chandra Sudeshna , Gäbler Christian , Schliebe Christian , Lang Heinrich , Bahadur Dhirendra
Published: August 2016

An amperometric immunosensor based on a redox active ferrocenyl end-grafted PAMAM dendrimer provides highly sensitive detection of immunoglobulin, down to 2 ng mL−1.
Radiation-induced colour changes in a spiropyran/BaFCl:Eu2+/polystyrene composite film and nonwoven fabric
Authors: Tsuchida Hayato , Nakamura Ryotaro , Kinashi Kenji , Sakai Wataru , Tsutsumi Naoto , Ozaki Makoto , Okabe Takahiro
Published: August 2016

A spiropyran dye and BaFCl:Eu2+ containing polystyrene (PS) film and nonwoven fabric successfully detects X-ray exposure doses in the order of milligray (mGy).