bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bladder cancer cell growth and motility implicate cannabinoid 2 receptor-mediated modifications of sphingolipids metabolism
Authors: Bettiga Arianna , Aureli Massimo , Colciago Giorgia , Murdica Valentina , Moschini Marco , Lucianò Roberta , Canals Daniel , Hannun Yusuf , Hedlund Petter , Lavorgna Giovanni , Colombo Renzo , Bassi Rosaria , Samarani Maura , Montorsi Francesco , Salonia Andrea , Benigni Fabio
Published: February 2017

The inhibitory effects demonstrated by activation of cannabinoid receptors (CB) on cancer proliferation and migration may also play critical roles in controlling bladder cancer (BC). CB expression on human normal and BC specimens was tested by immunohistochemistry. Human BC cells RT4 and RT112 were challenged with CB agonists and assessed for proliferation, apoptosis, and motility. Cellular sphingolipids (SL) constitution and metabolism were evaluated after metabolic labelling. CB1-2 were detected in BC specimens, but only CB2 was more expressed in the tumour. Both cell lines expressed similar CB2. Exposure to CB2 agonists inhibited BC growth, down-modulated Akt, induced caspase 3-activation and modified SL metabolism. Baseline SL analysis in cell lines showed differences linked to unique migratory behaviours and cytoskeletal re-arrangements. CB2 activation changed the SL composition of more aggressive RT112 cells by reducing (p < 0.01) Gb3 ganglioside (−50 ± 3%) and sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P, −40 ± 4%), which ended up to reduction in cell motility (−46 ± 5%) with inhibition of p-SRC. CB2-selective antagonists, gene silencing and an inhibitor of SL biosynthesis partially prevented CB2 agonist-induced effects on cell viability and motility. CB2 activation led to ceramide-mediated BC cell apoptosis independently of SL constitutive composition, which instead was modulated by CB2 agonists to reduce cell motility.
Highly stretchable and shape-controllable three-dimensional antenna fabricated by “Cut-Transfer-Release” method
Authors: Yan Zhuocheng , Pan Taisong , Yao Guang , Liao Feiyi , Huang Zhenlong , Zhang Hulin , Gao Min , Zhang Yin , Lin Yuan
Published: February 2017

Recent progresses on the Kirigami-inspired method provide a new idea to assemble three-dimensional (3D) functional structures with conventional materials by releasing the prestrained elastomeric substrates. In this paper, highly stretchable serpentine-like antenna is fabricated by a simple and quick “Cut-Transfer-Release” method for assembling stretchable 3D functional structures on an elastomeric substrate with a controlled shape. The mechanical reliability of the serpentine-like 3D stretchable antenna is evaluated by the finite element method and experiments. The antenna shows consistent radio frequency performance with center frequency at 5.6 GHz during stretching up to 200%. The 3D structure is also able to eliminate the hand effect observed commonly in the conventional antenna. This work is expected to spur the applications of novel 3D structures in the stretchable electronics.
Comparison of biological H2S removal characteristics between a composite packing material with and without functional microorganisms
Authors: Zhu Rencheng , Li Shunyi , Bao Xiaofeng , Dumont Éric
Published: February 2017

The performances of two identical biofilters, filled with a new composite packing material (named CM-5) embedded with functional microorganisms or sterilized CM-5 without microorganisms, were investigated for H2S treatment. Running parameters in terms of microbial counts, pressure drops, and inlet and outlet H2S concentrations were measured. The results show that the microbial count of the CM-5 was approximately ×105 CFU/g before being filled into the biofilter, while that of the sterilized CM-5 was negligible. The functional microorganisms embedded in CM-5 adapted to the environment containing H2S quickly. In most cases, pressure drops of the CM-5 biofilter were slightly higher than those of the sterilized CM-5 biofilter when the gas flow rate was 0.6–2.5 m3/h. The maximum elimination capacity (EC) of the CM-5 biofilter in treating H2S could reach up to 65 g/(m3·h) when the loading rate (LR) was approximately 80 g/(m3·h). If the LR was much higher, the measured EC showed a slight downward trend. The experimental ECs of biofilters were fitted by two typical dynamic models: the Michaelis-Menten model and the Haldane model. Compared with the Michaelis-Menten model, the Haldane model fit the experimental ECs better for the two biofilters because of the presence of the substrate inhibition behaviour.
Predicting short-term survival after liver transplantation on eight score systems: a national report from China Liver Transplant Registry
Authors: Ling Qi , Dai Haojiang , Zhuang Runzhou , Shen Tian , Wang Weilin , Xu Xiao , Zheng Shusen
Published: February 2017

To compare the performance of eight score systems (MELD, uMELD, MELD-Na. iMELD, UKELD, MELD-AS, CTP, and mCTP) in predicting the post-transplant mortality, we analyzed the data of 6,014 adult cirrhotic patients who underwent liver transplantation between January 2003 and December 2010 from the China Liver Transplant Registry database. In hepatitis B virus (HBV) group, MELD, uMELD and MELD-AS showed good predictive accuracies at 3-month mortality after liver transplantation; by comparison with other five models, MELD presented the best ability in predicting 3-month, 6-month and 1-year mortality, showing a significantly better predictive ability than UKELD and iMELD. In hepatitis C virus and Alcohol groups, the predictive ability did not differ significantly between MELD and other models. Patient survivals in different MELD categories were of statistically significant difference. Among patients with MELD score >35, a new prognostic model based on serum creatinine, need for hemodialysis and moderate ascites could identify the sickest one. In conclusion, MELD is superior to other score systems in predicting short-term post-transplant survival in patients with HBV-related liver disease. Among patients with MELD score >35, a new prognostic model can identify the sickest patients who should be excluded from waiting list to prevent wasteful transplantation.
Opposing effects of reward and punishment on human vigor
Authors: Griffiths Benjamin , Beierholm Ulrik R.
Published: February 2017

The vigor with which humans and animals engage in a task is often a determinant of the likelihood of the task’s success. An influential theoretical model suggests that the speed and rate at which responses are made should depend on the availability of rewards and punishments. While vigor facilitates the gathering of rewards in a bountiful environment, there is an incentive to slow down when punishments are forthcoming so as to decrease the rate of punishments, in conflict with the urge to perform fast to escape punishment. Previous experiments confirmed the former, leaving the latter unanswered. We tested the influence of punishment in an experiment involving economic incentives and contrasted this with reward related behavior on the same task. We found that behavior corresponded with the theoretical model; while instantaneous threat of punishment caused subjects to increase the vigor of their response, subjects’ response times would slow as the overall rate of punishment increased. We quantitatively show that this is in direct contrast to increases in vigor in the face of increased overall reward rates. These results highlight the opposed effects of rewards and punishments and provide further evidence for their roles in the variety of types of human decisions.
Ran-dependent TPX2 activation promotes acentrosomal microtubule nucleation in neurons
Authors: Chen Wen-Shin , Chen Yi-Ju , Huang Yung-An , Hsieh Bing-Yuan , Chiu Ho-Chieh , Kao Pei-Ying , Chao Chih-Yuan , Hwang Eric
Published: February 2017

The microtubule (MT) cytoskeleton is essential for the formation of morphologically appropriate neurons. The existence of the acentrosomal MT organizing center in neurons has been proposed but its identity remained elusive. Here we provide evidence showing that TPX2 is an important component of this acentrosomal MT organizing center. First, neurite elongation is compromised in TPX2-depleted neurons. In addition, TPX2 localizes to the centrosome and along the neurite shaft bound to MTs. Depleting TPX2 decreases MT formation frequency specifically at the tip and the base of the neurite, and these correlate precisely with the regions where active GTP-bound Ran proteins are enriched. Furthermore, overexpressing the downstream effector of Ran, importin, compromises MT formation and neuronal morphogenesis. Finally, applying a Ran-importin signaling interfering compound phenocopies the effect of TPX2 depletion on MT dynamics. Together, these data suggest a model in which Ran-dependent TPX2 activation promotes acentrosomal MT nucleation in neurons.
Elevated serum interferon γ-induced protein 10 kDa is associated with TAFRO syndrome
Authors: Iwaki Noriko , Gion Yuka , Kondo Eisei , Kawano Mitsuhiro , Masunari Taro , Moro Hiroshi , Nikkuni Koji , Takai Kazue , Hagihara Masao , Hashimoto Yuko , Yokota Kenji , Okamoto Masataka , Nakao Shinji , Yoshino Tadashi , Sato Yasuharu
Published: February 2017

Multicentric Castleman disease (MCD) is a heterogeneous lymphoproliferative disorder. It is characterized by inflammatory symptoms, and interleukin (IL)-6 contributes to the disease pathogenesis. Human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8) often drives hypercytokinemia in MCD, although the etiology of HHV-8-negative MCD is idiopathic (iMCD). A distinct subtype of iMCD that shares a constellation of clinical features including thrombocytopenia (T), anasarca (A), fever (F), reticulin fibrosis (R), and organomegaly (O) has been reported as TAFRO-iMCD, however the differences in cytokine profiles between TAFRO-iMCD and iMCD have not been established. We retrospectively compared levels of serum interferon γ-induced protein 10 kDa (IP-10), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-AA, interleukin (IL)-10, and other cytokines between 11 cases of TAFRO-iMCD, 6 cases of plasma cell type iMCD, and 21 healthy controls. During flare-ups, patients with TAFRO-iMCD had significantly higher serum IP-10 and tended to have lower PDGF-AA levels than the other 2 groups. In addition, serum IL-10, IL-23, and vascular endothelial growth factor-A were elevated in both TAFRO-iMCD and iMCD. Elevated serum IP-10 is associated with inflammatory diseases including infectious diseases. There was a strong correlation between high serum IP-10 and the presence of TAFRO-iMCD, suggesting that IP-10 might be involved in the pathogenesis of TAFRO-iMCD.
Experimental Study of the Biological Properties of Human Embryonic Stem Cell–Derived Retinal Progenitor Cells
Authors: Shao Jingzhi , Zhou Peng-Yi , Peng Guang-Hua
Published: February 2017

Retinal degenerative diseases are among the leading causes of blindness worldwide, and cell replacement is considered as a promising therapeutic. However, the resources of seed cells are scarce. To further explore this type of therapy, we adopted a culture system that could harvest a substantial quantity of retinal progenitor cells (RPCs) from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) within a relatively short period of time. Furthermore, we transplanted these RPCs into the subretinal spaces of Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) rats. We quantified the thickness of the treated rats’ outer nuclear layers (ONLs) and explored the visual function via electroretinography (ERG). It was found that the differentiated cells expressed RPC markers and photoreceptor progenitor markers. The transplanted RPCs survived for at least 12 weeks, resulting in beneficial effects on the morphology of the host retina, and led to a significant improvement in the visual function of the treated animals. These therapeutic effects suggest that the hESCs-derived RPCs could delay degeneration of the retina and partially restore visual function.
Plant-based vaccines for oral delivery of type 1 diabetes-related autoantigens: Evaluating oral tolerance mechanisms and disease prevention in NOD mice
Authors: Posgai Amanda L. , Wasserfall Clive H. , Kwon Kwang-Chul , Daniell Henry , Schatz Desmond A. , Atkinson Mark A.
Published: February 2017

Autoantigen-specific immunological tolerance represents a central objective for prevention of type 1 diabetes (T1D). Previous studies demonstrated mucosal antigen administration results in expansion of Foxp3+and LAP+regulatory T cells (Tregs), suggesting oral delivery of self-antigens might represent an effective means for modulating autoimmune disease. Early preclinical experiments using the non-obese diabetic (NOD) mouse model reported mucosal administration of T1D-related autoantigens [proinsulin or glutamic acid decarboxylase 65 (GAD)] delayed T1D onset, but published data are conflicting regarding dose, treatment duration, requirement for combinatorial agents, and extent of efficacy. Recently, dogma was challenged in a report demonstrating oral insulin does not prevent T1D in NOD mice, possibly due to antigen digestion prior to mucosal immune exposure. We used transplastomic plants expressing proinsulin and GAD to protect the autoantigens from degradation in an oral vaccine and tested the optimal combination, dose, and treatment duration for the prevention of T1D in NOD mice. Our data suggest oral autoantigen therapy alone does not effectively influence disease incidence or result in antigen-specific tolerance assessed by IL-10 measurement and Treg frequency. A more aggressive approach involving tolerogenic cytokine administration and/or lymphocyte depletion prior to oral antigen-specific immunotherapy will likely be required to impart durable therapeutic efficacy.
Correction: Corrigendum: Chemical ordering in substituted fluorite oxides: a computational investigation of Ho2Zr2O7 and RE2Th2O7 (RE = Ho, Y, Gd, Nd, La)
Authors: Solomon Jonathan M. , Shamblin Jacob , Lang Maik , Navrotsky Alexandra , Asta Mark
Published: February 2017

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 38772; published online: 12 December 2016; updated: 13 February 2017 This Article contains errors in Reference 31 which was incorrectly given as: ‘Sanjuán, M. L. et al. Raman and x-ray absorption spectroscopy study of the phase evolution induced by mechanical milling and thermal treatments in R2Ti2O7 pyrochlores.
An end-to-end software solution for the analysis of high-throughput single-cell migration data
Authors: Masuzzo Paola , Huyck Lynn , Simiczyjew Aleksandra , Ampe Christophe , Martens Lennart , Van Troys Marleen
Published: February 2017

The systematic study of single-cell migration requires the availability of software for assisting data inspection, quality control and analysis. This is especially important for high-throughput experiments, where multiple biological conditions are tested in parallel. Although the field of cell migration can count on different computational tools for cell segmentation and tracking, downstream data visualization, parameter extraction and statistical analysis are still left to the user and are currently not possible within a single tool. This article presents a completely new module for the open-source, cross-platform CellMissy software for cell migration data management. This module is the first tool to focus specifically on single-cell migration data downstream of image processing. It allows fast comparison across all tested conditions, providing automated data visualization, assisted data filtering and quality control, extraction of various commonly used cell migration parameters, and non-parametric statistical analysis. Importantly, the module enables parameters computation both at the trajectory- and at the step-level. Moreover, this single-cell analysis module is complemented by a new data import module that accommodates multiwell plate data obtained from high-throughput experiments, and is easily extensible through a plugin architecture. In conclusion, the end-to-end software solution presented here tackles a key bioinformatics challenge in the cell migration field, assisting researchers in their high-throughput data processing.
Reduced aldehyde dehydrogenase expression in preeclamptic decidual mesenchymal stem/stromal cells is restored by aldehyde dehydrogenase agonists
Authors: Kusuma Gina D. , Abumaree Mohamed H. , Perkins Anthony V. , Brennecke Shaun P. , Kalionis Bill
Published: February 2017

High resistance to oxidative stress is a common feature of mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSC) and is associated with higher cell survival and ability to respond to oxidative damage. Aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) activity is a candidate “universal” marker for stem cells. ALDH expression was significantly lower in decidual MSC (DMSC) isolated from preeclamptic (PE) patients. ALDH gene knockdown by siRNA transfection was performed to create a cell culture model of the reduced ALDH expression detected in PE-DMSC. We showed that ALDH activity in DMSC is associated with resistance to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced toxicity. Our data provide evidence that ALDH expression in DMSC is required for cellular resistance to oxidative stress. Furthermore, candidate ALDH activators were screened and two of the compounds were effective in upregulating ALDH expression. This study provides a proof-of-principle that the restoration of ALDH activity in diseased MSC is a rational basis for a therapeutic strategy to improve MSC resistance to cytotoxic damage.
Optimization of Buckypaper-enhanced Multifunctional Thermoplastic Composites
Authors: Li Zhongrui , Liang Zhiyong
Published: February 2017

A series of flattened-nanotube reinforced thermoplastic composites are sizably fabricated as a function of buckypaper loading. The effects of the volume fraction, nanotube alignment and length on the tensile performance of the composites are factored into a general expression. The incorporation of self-reinforcing polyphenylene resin (Parmax) into a highly aligned buckypaper frame at an optimal weight ratio boosts the tensile strength and Young’s modulus of the buckypaper/Parmax composite to 1145 MPa and 150 GPa, respectively, far exceeding those of Parmax and aligned buckypaper individually. The composite also exhibits improved thermal (>65 W/m-K) and electrical (~700 S/cm) conductivities, as well as high thermoelectric power (22 μV/K) at room temperature. Meanwhile, the composite displays a heterogeneously complex structure. The hexyl groups of Parmax noncovalently interact with the honeycomb structure of the flattened nanotube through π-stacking and CH-π interaction, correspondingly improving the dispersity of polymer on the nanotube surface and the interfacial stress transferring while the high alignment degrees of nanotube facilitate phonon and charge transport in the composites.
Metabolomic tool to identify soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill] germplasms with a high level of shade tolerance at the seedling stage
Authors: Liu Jiang , Hu Baoyu , Liu Weiguo , Qin Wenting , Wu Haijun , Zhang Jing , Yang Caiqiong , Deng Juncai , Shu Kai , Du Junbo , Yang Feng , Yong Taiwen , Wang Xiaochun , Yang Wenyu
Published: February 2017

The isoflavone profiles of seeds of various soybean genotypes with different levels of shade tolerance at the seedling stage were investigated. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to quantify 12 isoflavones, and the data were analyzed using a multivariate statistical analysis. Combined with field experimental data and an orthogonal partial least-squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA), several aglycones (genistein (GE), daidzein (DE), and glycitein (GLE)) were selected and identified as key compounds involved in the shade tolerance of soybean seedlings. Additional correlation analysis and laboratory shading stress experiments with soybean seedlings also confirmed the function of these selected isoflavones, especially GE, in the discrimination of soybean seedlings with different levels of shade tolerance. Furthermore, the structure–antioxidant activity relationships between a range of isoflavones and the plant shade-tolerance mechanism are discussed. Targeted metabolomic analyses of isoflavones could reveal the diversity of shade tolerance in soybean seedlings, thus contributing to the breeding of excellent soybean varieties.
Superior adsorption and photoinduced carries transfer behaviors of dandelion-shaped Bi2S3@MoS2: experiments and theory
Authors: Li Mengjiao , Wang Junyong , Zhang Peng , Deng Qinglin , Zhang Jinzhong , Jiang Kai , Hu Zhigao , Chu Junhao
Published: February 2017

The enhanced light-harvesting capacity and effective separation of photogenerated carriers in fantastic hierarchical heterostructures enjoy striking attention for potential applications in the field of solar cells and photocatalysis. A three-dimensional (3D) dandelion-shaped hierarchical Bi2S3 microsphere compactly decorated with wing-shaped few layered MoS2 lamella (D-BM) was fabricated via a facile hydrothermal self-assembly process. Especially, polyethylene glycol (PEG) has been proven as the vital template to form D-BM microsphere. Importantly, the as-prepared D-BM microsphere presents pH-dependent superior adsorption behavior and remarkable visible light photocatalytic activity for degradation of organic dyestuffs (Rhodamine B/RhB and Methylene blue/MB), far exceeding those for the pure Bi2S3 and MoS2. It is understandable that D-BM with high surface area possesses more active sites and promotes light utilization due to the unique porous structure with outspread wings. Besides, based on the experiments and theoretical calculations, the staggered type II band alignment of D-BM permits the charge injection from Bi2S3 to MoS2, subsequently accelerates the separation and restrains the recombination of carriers, leading to excellent photocatalytic activity, as well as the photoconductance and photoresponse performance (with Ilight/Idark ratio 567).
High-throughput in situ cell electroporation microsystem for parallel delivery of single guide RNAs into mammalian cells
Authors: Bian Shengtai , Zhou Yicen , Hu Yawei , Cheng Jing , Chen Xiaofang , Xu Youchun , Liu Peng
Published: February 2017

Arrayed genetic screens mediated by the CRISPR/Cas9 technology with single guide RNA (sgRNA) libraries demand a high-throughput platform capable of transfecting diverse cell types at a high efficiency in a genome-wide scale for detection and analysis of sophisticated cellular phenotypes. Here we developed a high-throughputin situcell electroporation (HiCEP) microsystem which leveraged the superhydrophobic feature of the microwell array to achieve individually controlled conditions in each microwell and coupled an interdigital electrode array chip with the microwells in a modular-based scheme for highly efficient delivery of exogenous molecules into cells. Two plasmids encoding enhanced green and red fluorescent proteins (EGFP and ERFP), respectively, were successfully electroporated into attached HeLa cells on a 169-microwell array chip with transfection efficiencies of 71.6 ± 11.4% and 62.9 ± 2.7%, and a cell viability above 95%. We also successfully conducted selective electroporation of sgRNA into 293T cells expressing the Cas9 nuclease in a high-throughput manner and observed the four-fold increase of the GFP intensities due to the repair of the protein coding sequences mediated by the CRISPR/Cas9 system. This study proved that this HiCEP system has the great potential to be used for arrayed functional screens with genome-wide CRISPR libraries on hard-to-transfect cells in the future.
Local melting to design strong and plastically deformable bulk metallic glass composites
Authors: Qin Yue-Sheng , Han Xiao-Liang , Song Kai-Kai , Tian Yu-Hao , Peng Chuan-Xiao , Wang Li , Sun Bao-An , Wang Gang , Kaban Ivan , Eckert Jürgen
Published: February 2017

Recently, CuZr-based bulk metallic glass (BMG) composites reinforced by the TRIP (transformation-induced plasticity) effect have been explored in attempt to accomplish an optimal of trade-off between strength and ductility. However, the design of such BMG composites with advanced mechanical properties still remains a big challenge for materials engineering. In this work, we proposed a technique of instantaneously and locally arc-melting BMG plate to artificially induce the precipitation of B2 crystals in the glassy matrix and then to tune mechanical properties. Through adjusting local melting process parameters (i.e. input powers, local melting positions, and distances between the electrode and amorphous plate), the size, volume fraction, and distribution of B2 crystals were well tailored and the corresponding formation mechanism was clearly clarified. The resultant BMG composites exhibit large compressive plasticity and high strength together with obvious work-hardening ability. This compelling approach could be of great significance for the steady development of metastable CuZr-based alloys with excellent mechanical properties.
Myotonic dystrophy type 1 patient-derived iPSCs for the investigation of CTG repeat instability
Authors: Ueki Junko , Nakamori Masayuki , Nakamura Masahiro , Nishikawa Misato , Yoshida Yoshinori , Tanaka Azusa , Morizane Asuka , Kamon Masayoshi , Araki Toshiyuki , Takahashi Masanori P. , Watanabe Akira , Inagaki Nobuya , Sakurai Hidetoshi
Published: February 2017

Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is an autosomal-dominant multi-system disease caused by expanded CTG repeats in dystrophia myotonica protein kinase (DMPK). The expanded CTG repeats are unstable and can increase the length of the gene with age, which worsens the symptoms. In order to establish a human stem cell system suitable for the investigation of repeat instability, DM1 patient-derived iPSCs were generated and differentiated into three cell types commonly affected in DM1, namely cardiomyocytes, neurons and myocytes. Then we precisely analysed the CTG repeat lengths in these cells. Our DM1-iPSCs showed a gradual lengthening of CTG repeats with unchanged repeat distribution in all cell lines depending on the passage numbers of undifferentiated cells. However, the average CTG repeat length did not change significantly after differentiation into different somatic cell types. We also evaluated the chromatin accessibility in DM1-iPSCs using ATAC-seq. The chromatin status in DM1 cardiomyocytes was closed at the DMPK locus as well as at SIX5 and its promoter region, whereas it was open in control, suggesting that the epigenetic modifications may be related to the CTG repeat expansion in DM1. These findings may help clarify the role of repeat instability in the CTG repeat expansion in DM1.
Dynamics of male meiotic recombination frequency during plant development using Fluorescent Tagged Lines in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Li Fan , De Storme Nico , Geelen Danny
Published: February 2017

Meiotic homologous recombination plays a central role in creating genetic variability, making it an essential biological process relevant to evolution and crop breeding. In this study, we used pollen-specific fluorescent tagged lines (FTLs) to measure male meiotic recombination frequency during the development of Arabidopsis thaliana. Interestingly, a subset of pollen grains consistently shows loss of fluorescence expression in tested lines. Using nine independent FTL intervals, the spatio-temporal dynamics of male recombination frequency was assessed during plant development, considering both shoot type and plant age as independent parameters. In most genomic intervals assayed, male meiotic recombination frequency is highly consistent during plant development, showing no significant change between different shoot types and during plant aging. However, in some genomic regions, such as I1a and I5a, a small but significant effect of either developmental position or plant age were observed, indicating that the meiotic CO frequency in those intervals varies during plant development. Furthermore, from an overall view of all nine genomic intervals assayed, both primary and tertiary shoots show a similar dynamics of increasing recombination frequency during development, while secondary and lateral shoots remain highly stable. Our results provide new insights in the dynamics of male meiotic recombination frequency during plant development.
Rapid prototyping of all-solution-processed multi-lengthscale electrodes using polymer-induced thin film wrinkling
Authors: Gabardo Christine M. , Adams-McGavin Robert C. , Fung Barnabas C. , Mahoney Eric J. , Fang Qiyin , Soleymani Leyla
Published: February 2017

Three-dimensional electrodes that are controllable over multiple lengthscales are very important for use in bioanalytical systems that integrate solid-phase devices with solution-phase samples. Here we present a fabrication method based on all-solution-processing and thin film wrinkling using smart polymers that is ideal for rapid prototyping of tunable three-dimensional electrodes and is extendable to large volume manufacturing. Although all-solution-processing is an attractive alternative to vapor-based techniques for low-cost manufacturing of electrodes, it often results in films suffering from low conductivity and poor substrate adhesion. These limitations are addressed here by using a smart polymer to create a conformal layer of overlapping wrinkles on the substrate to shorten the current path and embed the conductor onto the polymer layer. The structural evolution of these wrinkled electrodes, deposited by electroless deposition onto a nanoparticle seed layer, is studied at varying deposition times to understand its effects on structural parameters such as porosity, wrinkle wavelength and height. Furthermore, the effect of structural parameters on functional properties such as electro-active surface area and surface-enhanced Raman scattering is investigated. It is found that wrinkling of electroless-deposited thin films can be used to reduce sheet resistance, increase surface area, and enhance the surface-enhanced Raman scattering signal.
A ‘selfish’ B chromosome induces genome elimination by disrupting the histone code in the jewel wasp Nasonia vitripennis
Authors: Aldrich John C. , Leibholz Alexandra , Cheema Manjinder S. , Ausiό Juan , Ferree Patrick M.
Published: February 2017

Intragenomic conflict describes a phenomenon in which genetic elements act ‘selfishly’ to gain a transmission advantage at the expense of the whole genome. A non-essential, selfish B chromosome known as Paternal Sex Ratio (PSR) induces complete elimination of the sperm-derived hereditary material in the jewel wasp Nasonia vitripennis. PSR prevents the paternal chromatin from forming chromosomes during the first embryonic mitosis, leading to its loss. Although paternally transmitted, PSR evades self-elimination in order to be inherited. We examined important post-translational modifications to the DNA packaging histones on the normal genome and the PSR chromosome in the fertilized embryo. Three histone marks – H3K9me2,3, H3K27me1, and H4K20me1 – became abnormally enriched and spread to ectopic positions on the sperm’s chromatin before entry into mitosis. In contrast, other histone marks and DNA methylation were not affected by PSR, suggesting that its effect on the paternal genome is specific to a subset of histone marks. Contrary to the paternally derived genome, the PSR chromosome was visibly devoid of the H3K27me1 and H4K20me1 marks. These findings strongly suggest that PSR causes paternal genome elimination by disrupting at least three histone marks following fertilization, while PSR avoids self-elimination by evading two of these marks.
Three dimensional printing of calcium sulfate and mesoporous bioactive glass scaffolds for improving bone regeneration in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Qi Xin , Pei Peng , Zhu Min , Du Xiaoyu , Xin Chen , Zhao Shichang , Li Xiaolin , Zhu Yufang
Published: February 2017

In the clinic, bone defects resulting from infections, trauma, surgical resection and genetic malformations remain a significant challenge. In the field of bone tissue engineering, three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds are promising for the treatment of bone defects. In this study, calcium sulfate hydrate (CSH)/mesoporous bioactive glass (MBG) scaffolds were successfully fabricated using a 3D printing technique, which had a regular and uniform square macroporous structure, high porosity and excellent apatite mineralization ability. Human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) were cultured on scaffolds to evaluate hBMSC attachment, proliferation and osteogenesis-related gene expression. Critical-sized rat calvarial defects were applied to investigate the effect of CSH/MBG scaffolds on bone regeneration in vivo. The in vitro results showed that CSH/MBG scaffolds stimulated the adhesion, proliferation, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and osteogenesis-related gene expression of hBMSCs. In vivo results showed that CSH/MBG scaffolds could significantly enhance new bone formation in calvarial defects compared to CSH scaffolds. Thus 3D printed CSH/MBG scaffolds would be promising candidates for promoting bone regeneration.
Specificity of SNP detection with molecular beacons is improved by stem and loop separation with spacers
Authors: Farzan Valentina M. , Markelov Mikhail L. , Skoblov Alexander Yu. , Shipulin German A. , Zatsepin Timofei S.
Published: February 2017

Dissection of stem and loop regions in molecular beacons by nucleotide or non-nucleotide linkers minimizes nonspecific recognition in SNP discrimination.
Characterization of peptide attachment on silicon nanowires by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and mass spectrometry
Authors: Kurylo Ievgen , Dupré Mathieu , Cantel Sonia , Enjalbal Christine , Drobecq Hervé , Szunerits Sabine , Melnyk Oleg , Boukherroub Rabah , Coffinier Yannick
Published: February 2017

In this paper, we report an original method to immobilize a model peptide on silicon nanowires (SiNWs) via a photolinker attached to the SiNWs’ surface.
Covalent immobilisation of antibodies in Teflon-FEP microfluidic devices for the sensitive quantification of clinically relevant protein biomarkers
Authors: Pivetal Jeremy , Pereira Filipa M. , Barbosa Ana I. , Castanheira Ana P. , Reis Nuno M. , Edwards Alexander D.
Published: February 2017

Antibodies immobilised covalently within Teflon-FEP microcapillary devices allow sensitive fluorescent enzyme immunoassay.
A novel GC-MS method for the determination and quantification of metformin in surface water
Authors: Goedecke C. , Fettig I. , Piechotta C. , Philipp R. , Geissen S. U.
Published: February 2017

We develop a method to detect the diabetes drug metformin in water samples.
Synthesis and evaluation of ion-imprinted sol–gel material of selenite
Authors: Shi C. , Ding G. S. , Tang A. N. , Qiao Y. Y.
Published: February 2017

Highly selective selenite (SeO32−) ion-imprinted polymers (Se(iv)-IIPs) were prepared by the combination of surface ion-imprinting and sol–gel techniques and were then successfully used for the selective removal and preconcentration of Se(iv) in an aqueous solution.
Improved solid-phase extraction protocol and sensitive quantification of six microcystins in water using an HPLC-orbitrap mass spectrometry system
Authors: Palagama Dilrukshika S. W. , West III Raymond E. , Isailovic Dragan
Published: February 2017

A solid-phase extraction (SPE) protocol was developed and combined with HPLC-ESI-MS for the quantification of common cyanobacterial toxins, microcystins (MCs), in water.
A simple, effective and highly sensitive analytical method used for the determination of caffeine in tea and energy drink samples, and method optimization using a central composite design
Authors: Yousefi Samira , Kamankesh Marzieh , Jazaeri Sahar , Attaran Abdolmohammad , Mohammadi Abdorreza
Published: February 2017

A rapid, simple and highly sensitive analytical method based on a microextraction method, followed by high-performance liquid chromatography was developed for the determination of caffeine in different tea and energy drink samples.
Mechanistic insights into intramolecular ortho-amination/hydroxylation by nonheme FeIVNTs/FeIVO species: the σ vs. the π channels
Authors: Pandey Bhawana , Jaccob Madhavan , Rajaraman Gopalan
Published: February 2017

Intra molecular aromatic amination/hydroxylation by iron(iv)-species (imido and oxo). The following aspects are discussed in this study: (a) reasons for high reactivity; (b) comparative oxidative abilities; (c) prediction of σ and π pathways.
Oxygen reduction catalyzed by a water-soluble binuclear copper(ii) complex from a neutral aqueous solution
Authors: Liu Chengyu , Lei Haitao , Zhang Zongyao , Chen Fangfang , Cao Rui
Published: February 2017

A water-soluble binuclear CuII complex of a polypyridine–polyamide ligand can catalyze oxygen reduction to water from neutral aqueous solutions.
Single gold nanowire electrodes and single Pt@Au nanowire electrodes: electrochemistry and applications
Authors: Zhang Yaoyao , Xu Shen , Xiao Xiaoqing , Liu Yong , Qian Yuanyuan , Li Yongxin
Published: February 2017

Single Au nanowire electrodes and single Pt@Au nanowire electrodes have been prepared and used to investigate electrochemical properties, fabricate an E-DNA sensor and study the oxygen reduction reaction.
Measuring macromolecular crowding in cells through fluorescence anisotropy imaging with an AIE fluorogen
Authors: Soleimaninejad Hamid , Chen Moore Z. , Lou Xiaoding , Smith Trevor A. , Hong Yuning
Published: February 2017

We report a new strategy that allows spatiotemporal visualization of the macromolecular crowding effect in cells.
Non-sensitized selective photochemical reduction of CO2 to CO under visible light with an iron molecular catalyst
Authors: Rao Heng , Bonin Julien , Robert Marc
Published: February 2017

A single iron molecular compound demonstrates its ability to collect visible light and to selectively reduce CO2 to CO.
Efficient siRNA–peptide conjugation for specific targeted delivery into tumor cells
Authors: Gandioso Albert , Massaguer Anna , Villegas Núria , Salvans Cándida , Sánchez Dani , Brun-Heath Isabelle , Marchán Vicente , Orozco Modesto , Terrazas Montserrat
Published: February 2017

Efficient click siRNA–peptide conjugation for targeted delivery into tumor cells.
Splitting methanol on ultra-thin MgO(100) films deposited on a Mo substrate
Authors: Song Zhenjun , Xu Hu
Published: February 2017

The dissociation of methanol is successfully proposed on metal-supported ultra-thin MgO(100) films.
Electronic properties of carbon nanotubes complexed with a DNA nucleotide
Authors: Chehelamirani Morteza , da Silva Maurício C. , Salahub Dennis R.
Published: February 2017

Interactions with a DNA nucleotide can change the electronic properties of carbon nanotubes.
Tuning calcium biosensors with a single-site mutation: structural dynamics insights from femtosecond Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Tachibana Sean R. , Tang Longteng , Wang Yanli , Zhu Liangdong , Liu Weimin , Fang Chong
Published: February 2017

Structural dynamics governing the emission properties of a single-site mutant of fluorescent-protein-based calcium biosensors are elucidated by femtosecond stimulated Raman spectroscopy.
Tuning the electronic and vibrational properties of Sn2P2Se6and Pb2P2S6crystals and their metallization under high pressure
Authors: Ovsyannikov Sergey V. , Morozova Natalia V. , Korobeinikov Igor V. , Haborets Vasyl , Yevych Ruslan , Vysochanskii Yulian , Shchennikov Vladimir V.
Published: February 2017

Ferroelectric Sn2P2Se6and paraelectric Pb2P2S6demonstrate the remarkable responses of their electronic band structures to applied high pressures.
Axially chiral racemic half-sandwich nickel(ii) complexes by ring-closing metathesis
Authors: Buchowicz Włodzimierz , Banach Łukasz , Kamiński Radosław , Buchalski Piotr
Published: February 2017

A remarkable helical complex with a chelating Cp-NHC ligand has been synthesised via olefin metathesis in the Ni(ii) coordination sphere.
Novel mononuclear and 1D-polymeric derivatives of lanthanides and (η6-benzoic acid)tricarbonylchromium: synthesis, structure and magnetism
Authors: Gavrikov Andrey V. , Koroteev Pavel S. , Efimov Nikolay N. , Dobrokhotova Zhanna V. , Ilyukhin Andrey B. , Kostopoulos Andreas K. , Ariciu Ana-Maria , Novotortsev Vladimir M.
Published: February 2017

Novel derivatives of lanthanides and (η6-benzoic acid)tricarbonylchromium were synthesized and characterized; complexes of Tb, Dy, Er and Yb exhibit SMM behavior.
Utilization of CO2as a partial substitute for methane feedstock in chemical looping methane–steam redox processes for syngas production
Authors: Kathe Mandar , Empfield Abbey , Sandvik Peter , Fryer Charles , Zhang Yitao , Blair Elena , Fan Liang-Shih
Published: February 2017

This work describes the capability of a novel chemical looping system that utilizes CO2as a feedstock for methane reforming.
Tungsten carbide nanoparticles in simulated surface water with natural organic matter: dissolution, agglomeration, sedimentation and interaction with Daphnia magna
Authors: Hedberg Jonas , Ekvall Mikael T. , Hansson Lars-Anders , Cedervall Tommy , Odnevall Wallinder Inger
Published: February 2017

Nano-sized tungsten carbide shows no acute toxicity for Daphnia magna and agglomeration and sedimentation due to the lack of interaction with NOM.
Direct vinylation of natural alcohols and derivatives with calcium carbide
Authors: Teong Siew Ping , Chua Ariel Yi Hui , Deng Shiyun , Li Xiukai , Zhang Yugen
Published: February 2017

A transition metal-free, mild, and safe protocol has been developed for direct vinylation of various sugar alcohols, phenol and its derivatives with calcium carbide.
3D network of cellulose-based energy storage devices and related emerging applications
Authors: Dutta Saikat , Kim Jeonghun , Ide Yusuke , Ho Kim Jung , Hossain Md. Shahriar A. , Bando Yoshio , Yamauchi Yusuke , Wu Kevin C.-W.
Published: February 2017

There has recently been a major thrust toward advanced research in the area of hierarchical carbon nanostructured electrodes derived from cellulosic resources, such as cellulose nanofibers (CNFs), which are accessible from natural cellulose and bacterial cellulose (BC).
Iron acquisition in fungal pathogens of humans
Authors: Bairwa Gaurav , Hee Jung Won , Kronstad James W.
Published: February 2017

Fungal pathogens of humans acquire iron by high affinity reductive uptake, the use of siderophores, and by heme acquisition. These systems contribute to virulence to different extents in the pathogens.
Tensile and compressive behaviors of prestrained single-layer black phosphorus: a molecular dynamics study
Authors: Li Lili , Feng Chuang , Yang Jie
Published: February 2017

It is demonstrated that the mechanical behaviors of single layer black phosphorus can be significantly modified by a prestrain.
Atomistic understanding of the lateral growth of graphene from the edge of an h-BN domain: towards a sharp in-plane junction
Authors: Han Nannan , Liu Hongsheng , Zhang Junfeng , Gao Junfeng , Zhao Jijun
Published: February 2017

Two schematic diagrams of graphene growth from an h-BN domain leading to h-BN/G heterostructures with different qualities.
Electrocatalytic oxidation and determination of dexamethasone at an Fe3O4/PANI–CuII microsphere modified carbon ionic liquid electrode
Authors: Fatahi Azadeh , Malakooti Reihaneh , Shahlaei Mohsen
Published: February 2017

A novel, simple, sensitive and selective electrochemical sensor based on an Fe3O4/PANI–CuII microsphere modified carbon ionic liquid electrode is constructed and utilized for the determination of dexamethasone.
Preparation of γ-PGA hydrogels and swelling behaviors in salt solutions with different ionic valence numbers
Authors: Li Zheng , He Guidong , Hua Jiachuan , Wu Maoqi , Guo Wen , Gong Jixian , Zhang Jianfei , Qiao Changsheng
Published: February 2017

In this paper, a novel poly γ-glutamic acid (γ-PGA) hydrogel was successfully synthesized by solution polymerization and ethylene glycol diglycidyl ether (EGDE) was used as crosslinker.
Ruthenium nanoparticles-modified reduced graphene prepared by a green method for high-performance supercapacitor application in neutral electrolyte
Authors: Hassan Hagar K. , Atta Nada F. , Hamed Maher M. , Galal Ahmed , Jacob Timo
Published: February 2017

Here, we report a one-pot preparation of a ruthenium-based reduced graphene oxide hybrid (Runano-based RGO) for supercapacitors applications.
A novel water soluble chemosensor based on carboxyl functionalized NDI derivatives for selective detection and facile removal of mercury(ii)
Authors: Lin Qi , Mao Peng-Peng , Liu Lu , Liu Juan , Zhang You-Ming , Yao Hong , Wei Tai-Bao
Published: February 2017

A novel water-soluble Hg2+ sensor M2 has been designed and synthesized, which can provide a fluorescent “turn-on” response when it detects Hg2+. More meaningfully, the sensor M2 can remove Hg2+ from water effectively.
Investigation of dynamic surface tension in gas–liquid absorption using a microflow interfacial tensiometer
Authors: Yang Lu , Liu Guotao , Luo Shicong , Wang Kai , Luo Guangsheng
Published: February 2017

Dynamic surface tension in gas–liquid absorption is studied using a microflow device.
Formicamycins, antibacterial polyketides produced by Streptomyces formicae isolated from African Tetraponera plant-ants
Authors: Qin Zhiwei , Munnoch John T. , Devine Rebecca , Holmes Neil A. , Seipke Ryan F. , Wilkinson Karl A. , Wilkinson Barrie , Hutchings Matthew I.
Published: February 2017

Ant pharming: antibacterial polyketides from plant-ant associated bacteria.
Gas confinement in compartmentalized coordination polymers for highly selective sorption
Authors: Giménez-Marqués Mónica , Calvo Galve Néstor , Palomino Miguel , Valencia Susana , Rey Fernando , Sastre Germán , Vitórica-Yrezábal Iñigo J. , Jiménez-Ruiz Mónica , Rodríguez-Velamazán J. Alberto , González Miguel A. , Jordá José L. , Coronado Eugenio , Espallargas Guillermo Mínguez
Published: February 2017

Crystalline materials comprising isolated discrete cavities show preferential gas sorption.
A self-consistent mean-field model for polyelectrolyte gels
Authors: Rud Oleg , Richter Tobias , Borisov Oleg , Holm Christian , Košovan Peter
Published: February 2017

We present a novel approach to modeling polyelectrolyte gels, exploiting the analogy between star-branched polymers and polymer networks, as a computationally inexpensive, yet reliable alternative to full-scale simulations.
Super-resolution imaging of self-assembly of amphiphilic photoswitchable macrocycles
Authors: Hua Qiong-Xin , Xin Bo , Xiong Zu-Jing , Gong Wen-Liang , Li Chong , Huang Zhen-Li , Zhu Ming-Qiang
Published: February 2017

Self-assembly of an amphiphilic photoswitchable fluorescent macrocycle methoxy-tetraethylene glycol-substituted hexaarylbiimidazole-borondipyrromethene can be observed directly under a super-resolution fluorescence microscope, with the nanoscale resolution beyond the optical diffraction limitation.
Cytotoxicity of arsenic trioxide in single leukemia cells by time-resolved ICP-MS together with lanthanide tags
Authors: Zhou Ying , Li Hongyan , Sun Hongzhe
Published: February 2017

A novel strategy using cisplatin as a viability dye together with conjugating lanthanide tags to marker proteins was developed to examine As2O3cytotoxicity in single leukemia cells by ICP-MS.
Regioselective synthesis of difluoroalkyl/perfluoroalkyl enones via Pd-catalyzed four-component carbonylative coupling reactions
Authors: Wang Qiang , Zheng Lan , He Yu-Tao , Liang Yong-Min
Published: February 2017

The first example of Pd-catalyzed four-component carbonylative difluoroalkylation/perfluoroalkylation through the alkyne difunctionalization process is achieved.
Mechanistic insights into biomimetic carbonic anhydrase action catalyzed by doped carbon nanotubes and graphene
Authors: Verma Manju , Deshpande Parag A.
Published: February 2017

Density functional theory shows transition metal doped carbon nanotubes and graphene to be active and biomimetic for carbon capture.
Decay times of the spin-forbidden and spin-enabled transitions of Yb2+ doped in CsCaX3 and CsSrX3 (X = Cl, Br, I)
Authors: Suta Markus , Senden Tim , Olchowka Jacob , Adlung Matthias , Meijerink Andries , Wickleder Claudia
Published: February 2017

In this article, a detailed analysis of the structure–property correlation of the decay times of the spin-forbidden and spin-enabled transitions of Yb2+ in the halidoperovskites CsCaX3 and CsSrX3 (X = Cl, Br, I) is presented.