bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A chromosome-anchored eggplant genome sequence reveals key events in Solanaceae evolution
Authors: Barchi Lorenzo , Pietrella Marco , Venturini Luca , Minio Andrea , Toppino Laura , Acquadro Alberto , Andolfo Giuseppe , Aprea Giuseppe , Avanzato Carla , Bassolino Laura , Comino Cinzia , Molin Alessandra Dal , Ferrarini Alberto , Maor Louise Chappell , Portis Ezio , Reyes-Chin-Wo Sebastian , Rinaldi Riccardo , Sala Tea , Scaglione Davide , Sonawane Prashant , Tononi Paola , Almekias-Siegl Efrat , Zago Elisa , Ercolano Maria Raffaella , Aharoni Asaph , Delledonne Massimo , Giuliano Giovanni , Lanteri Sergio , Rotino Giuseppe Leonardo
Published: August 2019

With approximately 450 species, spiny Solanum species constitute the largest monophyletic group in the Solanaceae family, but a high-quality genome assembly from this group is presently missing. We obtained a chromosome-anchored genome assembly of eggplant (Solanum melongena), containing 34,916 genes, confirming that the diploid gene number in the Solanaceae is around 35,000. Comparative genomic studies with tomato (S. lycopersicum), potato (S. tuberosum) and pepper (Capsicum annuum) highlighted the rapid evolution of miRNA:mRNA regulatory pairs and R-type defense genes in the Solanaceae, and provided a genomic basis for the lack of steroidal glycoalkaloid compounds in the Capsicum genus. Using parsimony methods, we reconstructed the putative chromosomal complements of the key founders of the main Solanaceae clades and the rearrangements that led to the karyotypes of extant species and their ancestors. From 10% to 15% of the genes present in the four genomes were syntenic paralogs (ohnologs) generated by the pre-γ, γ and T paleopolyploidy events, and were enriched in transcription factors. Our data suggest that the basic gene network controlling fruit ripening is conserved in different Solanaceae clades, and that climacteric fruit ripening involves a differential regulation of relatively few components of this network, including CNR and ethylene biosynthetic genes.
Cost-effective sol-gel synthesis of porous CuO nanoparticle aggregates with tunable specific surface area
Authors: Dörner Lars , Cancellieri Claudia , Rheingans Bastian , Walter Marc , Kägi Ralf , Schmutz Patrik , Kovalenko Maksym V. , Jeurgens Lars P. H.
Published: August 2019

CuO nanoparticles (NPs) are applied in various key technologies, such as catalysis, energy conversion, printable electronics and nanojoining. In this study, an economic, green and easy-scalable sol-gel synthesis method was adopted to produce submicron-sized nanoporous CuO NP aggregates with a specific surface area > 18 m²/g. To this end, a copper-carbonate containing precursor was precipitated from a mixed solution of copper acetate and ammonia carbonate and subsequently calcinated at T ≥ 250 °C. The thus obtained CuO nanopowder is composed of weakly-bounded agglomerates, which are constituted of aggregated CuO NPs with a tunable size in the range of 100–140 nm. The CuO aggregates, in turn, are composed of equi-axed primary crystallites with a tunable crystallite size in the range of 20–40 nm. The size and shape of the primary CuO crystallites, as well as the nanoporosity of their fused CuO aggregates, can be tuned by controlled variation of the degree of supersaturation of the solution via the pH and the carbonate concentration. The synthesized submicron-sized CuO aggregates can be more easily and safely processed in the form of a solution, dispersion or paste than individual NPs, while still offering the same enhanced reactivity due to their nanoporous architecture.
Oncogenic G12D mutation alters local conformations and dynamics of K-Ras
Authors: Vatansever Sezen , Erman Burak , Gümüş Zeynep H.
Published: August 2019

K-Ras is the most frequently mutated oncoprotein in human cancers, and G12D is its most prevalent mutation. To understand how G12D mutation impacts K-Ras function, we need to understand how it alters the regulation of its dynamics. Here, we present local changes in K-Ras structure, conformation and dynamics upon G12D mutation, from long-timescale Molecular Dynamics simulations of active (GTP-bound) and inactive (GDP-bound) forms of wild-type and mutant K-Ras, with an integrated investigation of atomistic-level changes, local conformational shifts and correlated residue motions. Our results reveal that the local changes in K-Ras are specific to bound nucleotide (GTP or GDP), and we provide a structural basis for this. Specifically, we show that G12D mutation causes a shift in the population of local conformational states of K-Ras, especially in Switch-II (SII) and α3-helix regions, in favor of a conformation that is associated with a catalytically impaired state through structural changes; it also causes SII motions to anti-correlate with other regions. This detailed picture of G12D mutation effects on the local dynamic characteristics of both active and inactive protein helps enhance our understanding of local K-Ras dynamics, and can inform studies on the development of direct inhibitors towards the treatment of K-RasG12D-driven cancers.
De novo regulation of RD3 synthesis in residual neuroblastoma cells after intensive multi-modal clinical therapy harmonizes disease evolution
Authors: Somasundaram Dinesh Babu , Subramanian Karthikeyan , Aravindan Sheeja , Yu Zhongxin , Natarajan Mohan , Herman Terence , Aravindan Natarajan
Published: August 2019

Most high-risk neuroblastomas that initially respond to therapy will ultimately relapse. Currently, no curative treatment is available. Acquired genetic/molecular rearrangement in therapy-resistant cells contributes to tumor relapse. Recently, we identified significant RD3 loss in progressive disease (PD) and defined its association with advanced disease-stage and poor clinical outcomes. Here, we investigated whether RD3 loss is an acquired process in cells that survive intensive multi-modal clinical therapy (IMCT) and its significance in disease evolution. RD3 status (mRNA, protein) during diagnosis (Dx) and PD after IMCT was investigated in NB patient cohort (n = 106), stage-4 NB cell lines (n = 15) with known treatment status and validated with independent data from another set of 15 cell-lines. Loss of RD3 in metastatic disease was examined using a mouse model of PD and metastatic-site-derived aggressive cells (MSDACs) ex vivo. RD3 silencing/expression assessed changes in metastatic state. Influence of RD3 loss in therapy resistance was examined through independent in vitro and in vivo studies. A significant loss of RD3 mRNA and protein was observed in resistant cells derived from patients with PD after IMCT. This is true to the effect within and between patients. Results from the mouse model identified significant transcriptional/translational loss of RD3 in metastatic tumors and MSDACs. RD3 re-expression in MSDACs and silencing RD3 in parental cells defined the functional relevance of RD3-loss in PD pathogenesis. Analysis of independent studies with salvage therapeutic agents affirmed RD3 loss in surviving resistant cells and residual tumors. The profound reductions in RD3 transcription indicate the de novo regulation of RD3 synthesis in resistant cells after IMCT. Defining RD3 loss in PD and the benefit of targeted reinforcement could improve salvage therapy for progressive neuroblastoma.
Novel clinical and dual infection by Histoplasma capsulatum genotypes in HIV patients from Northeastern, Brazil
Authors: Damasceno Lisandra Serra , Teixeira Marcus de Melo , Barker Bridget Marie , Almeida Marcos Abreu , Muniz Mauro de Medeiros , Pizzini Cláudia Vera , Mesquita Jacó Ricarte Lima , Rodríguez-Arellanes Gabriela , Ramírez José Antonio , Vite-Garín Tania , Leitão Terezinha do Menino Jesus Silva , Taylor Maria Lucia , Almeida-Paes Rodrigo , Zancopé-Oliveira Rosely Maria
Published: August 2019

Histoplasmosis is a worldwide-distributed deep mycosis that affects healthy and immunocompromised hosts. Severe and disseminated disease is especially common in HIV-infected patients. At least 11 phylogenetic species are recognized and the majority of diversity is found in Latin America. The northeastern region of Brazil has one of the highest HIV/AIDS prevalence in Latin America and Ceará State has one of the highest death rates due to histoplasmosis in the world, where the mortality rate varies between 33–42%. The phylogenetic distribution and population genetic structure of 51 clinical isolates from Northeast Brazil was studied. For that morphological characteristics, exoantigens profile, and fungal mating types were evaluated. The genotypes were deduced by a MSLT in order to define local population structure of this fungal pathogen. In addition, the relationships of H. capsulatum genotypes with clinically relevant phenotypes and clinical aspects were investigated. The results suggest two cryptic species, herein named population Northeast BR1 and population Northeast BR2. These populations are recombining, exhibit a high level of haplotype diversity, and contain different ratios of mating types MAT1-1 and MAT1-2. However, differences in phenotypes or clinical aspects were not observed within these new cryptic species. A HIV patient can be co-infected by two or more genotypes from Northeast BR1 and/or Northeast BR2, which may have significant impact on disease progression due to the impaired immune response. We hypothesize that co-infections could be the result of multiple exposure events and may indicate higher risk of disseminated histoplasmosis, especially in HIV infected patients.
Silver ions cause oscillation of bacterial length of Escherichia coli
Authors: Krishnamurthi Venkata Rao , Chen Jingyi , Wang Yong
Published: August 2019

Silver (Ag) in various forms have recently gained broad interest and been revisited due to their promising antimicrobial effects. Here we report our study on the morphological dynamics of live bacteria when subjected to Ag+ ions. Using time-lapse microscopy, we observed oscillations of cell-length for a large fraction of bacteria exposed to 60 μM of Ag+ ions. In addition, we found that the responses of bacteria to Ag+ ions were heterogeneous. We quantified the oscillations of cell-length with power spectral density, which appeared different from that of bacteria growing in the absence of Ag+ ions. Furthermore, a model similar to the predator-prey argument was developed to understand the observed oscillations of cell-length upon exposure to Ag+ ions. This model not only successfully produced the oscillations but also explained the observed heterogeneity in the bacterial responses to Ag+ ions.
A new alvarezsaurian theropod from the Upper Jurassic Shishugou Formation of western China
Authors: Qin Zichuan , Clark James , Choiniere Jonah , Xu Xing
Published: August 2019

Alvarezsaurian dinosaurs, a group of bizarre theropods with greatly shortened and modified forelimbs, are known mostly from the Cretaceous of Asia and South America. Here we report a new alvarezsaurian, Shishugounykus inexpectus gen. et sp. nov, based on a specimen recovered from the Middle–Upper Jurassic Shishugou Formation of the Junggar Basin, western China. Together with two other alvarezsaurians from this formation, i.e., Haplocheirus sollers and Aorun zhaoi, these Shishugou forms represent the only known Jurassic alvarezsaurians worldwide. Similar to the two other Shishugou alvarezsaurians, this new alvarezsaurian displays early stages in the development of the highly modified alvarezsaurian forelimb, but it possesses a number of manual features closer to the typical coelurosaurian theropod condition. Combining morphological and histological features, our analysis indicates that the earliest known alvarezsaurians are variable in size and other important morphological features, and in particular display a mosaic distribution of forelimb features.
Identification of plasticity and interactions of a highly conserved motif within a picornavirus capsid precursor required for virus infectivity
Authors: Kristensen Thea , Belsham Graham J.
Published: August 2019

The picornavirus family includes poliovirus (PV) (genus: enterovirus), human rhinoviruses (enterovirus) and foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) (aphthovirus). These are responsible for important human and animal health concerns worldwide including poliomyelitis, the common cold and foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) respectively. In picornavirus particles, the positive-sense RNA genome (ca. 7–9 kb) is packaged within a protein shell (capsid) usually consisting of three surface exposed proteins, VP1, VP2 and VP3 plus the internal VP4, which are generated following cleavage of the capsid precursor by a virus-encoded protease. We have previously identified a motif near the C-terminus of FMDV VP1 that is required for capsid precursor processing. This motif is highly conserved among other picornaviruses, and is also likely to be important for their capsid precursor processing. We have now determined the plasticity of residues within this motif for virus infectivity and found an important interaction between FMDV residue VP1 R188 within this conserved motif and residue W129 in VP2 that is adjacent in the virus capsid. The FMDV (VP1 R188A) mutant virus has only been rescued with the secondary substitution VP2 W129R. This additional change compensates for the defect resulting from the VP1 R188A substitution and restored both capsid precursor processing and virus viability.
TNF-α promoter polymorphisms (G-238A and G-308A) are associated with susceptibility to Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and P. falciparum malaria: a study in malaria endemic area
Authors: Mahto Harishankar , Tripathy Rina , Meher Biswa Ranjan , Prusty Birendra K. , Sharma Meenakshi , Deogharia Divya , Saha Anjana Kumari , Panda Aditya K. , Das Bidyut K.
Published: August 2019

Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) is a proinflammatory cytokine associated with autoimmune and infectious diseases. Importance of TNF-α inP.falciparummalaria and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have been demonstrated. However, association of functional promoter variants with SLE and malaria is lacking in malaria endemic population. A total of 204 female SLE patients and 224 age and sex matched healthy controls were enrolled in the study. Three hundred fourteenP.falciparuminfected patients with different clinical phenotypes were included. TNF-α polymorphisms (G-238A & G-308A) were genotyped by PCR-RFLP. Plasma levels of TNF-α was quantified by ELISA. Heterozygous mutants and minor alleles of TNF-α (G-238A and G-308A) polymorphisms were significantly higher in SLE patients compared to healthy controls and associated with development of lupus nephritis. In addition, both promoter variants were associated with severeP.falciparum malaria. SLE patients demonstrated higher levels of plasma TNF-α compared to healthy controls. TNF-α (G-238A and G-308A) variants were associated with higher plasma TNF-α. In conclusion, TNF-α (G-238A & G-308A) variants are associated with higher plasma TNF-α levels in SLE patients residing in malaria endemic areas and could be a contributing factor in the development of SLE and susceptibility to severeP.falciparummalaria.
BMP-4 enhances epithelial mesenchymal transition and cancer stem cell properties of breast cancer cells via Notch signaling
Authors: Choi Sanghyuk , Yu Jinyeong , Park Aran , Dubon Maria Jose , Do Jungbeom , Kim Youngjae , Nam Donghyun , Noh Jinok , Park Ki-Sook
Published: August 2019

Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling and Notch signaling play important roles in tumorigenesis in various organs and tissues, including the breast. BMP-4 enhanced epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) and stem cell properties in both mammary epithelial cell line and breast carcinoma cell line. BMP-4 increased the expression of EMT biomarkers, such as fibronectin, laminin, N-cadherin, and Slug. BMP-4 also activated Notch signaling in these cells and increased the sphere forming efficiency of the non-transformed mammary epithelial cell line MCF-10A. In addition, BMP-4 upregulated the sphere forming efficiency, colony formation efficiency, and the expression of cancer stem cell markers, such as Nanog and CD44, in the breast carcinoma cell line MDA-MB-231. Inhibition of Notch signaling downregulated EMT and stem cell properties induced by BMP-4. Down-regulation of Smad4 using siRNA impaired the BMP-4-induced activation of Notch signaling, as well as the BMP-4-mediated EMT. These results suggest that EMT and stem cell properties are increased in mammary epithelial cells and breast cancer cells through the activation of Notch signaling in a Smad4-dependent manner in response to BMP-4.
Structure-based identification of a potential non-catalytic binding site for rational drug design in the fructose 1,6-biphosphate aldolase from Giardia lamblia
Authors: Méndez Sara-Teresa , Castillo-Villanueva Adriana , Martínez-Mayorga Karina , Reyes-Vivas Horacio , Oria-Hernández Jesús
Published: August 2019

Giardia lamblia is the causal agent of giardiasis, one of the most prevalent parasitosis in the world. Even though effective pharmacotherapies against this parasite are available, the disadvantages associated with its use call for the development of new antigiardial compounds. Based on the Giardia dependence on glycolysis as a main energy source, glycolytic enzymes appear to be attractive targets with antiparasitic potential. Among these, fructose 1,6-biphosphate aldolase (GlFBPA) has been highlighted as a promising target for drug design. Current efforts are based on the design of competitive inhibitors of GlFBPA; however, in the kinetic context of metabolic pathways, competitive inhibitors seem to have low potential as therapeutic agents. In this work, we performed an experimental and in silico structure-based approach to propose a non-catalytic binding site which could be used as a hot spot for antigardial drug design. The druggability of the selected binding site was experimentally tested; the alteration of the selected region by site directed mutagenesis disturbs the catalytic properties and the stability of the enzyme. A computational automated search of binding sites supported the potential of this region as functionally relevant. A preliminary docking study was performed, in order to explore the feasibility and type of molecules to be able to accommodate in the proposed binding region. Altogether, the results validate the proposed region as a specific molecular binding site with pharmacological potential.
Rev-Erbα and Photoreceptor Outer Segments modulate the Circadian Clock in Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells
Authors: Milićević Nemanja , Mazzaro Nadia , de Bruin Ivanka , Wils Esmée , ten Brink Jacoline , Asbroek Anneloor ten , Mendoza Jorge , Bergen Arthur , Felder-Schmittbuhl Marie-Paule
Published: August 2019

Retinal photoreceptor outer segments (POS) are renewed daily through phagocytosis by the adjacent retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) monolayer. Phagocytosis is mainly driven by the RPE circadian clock but the underlying molecular mechanisms remain elusive. Using ARPE-19 (human RPE cell-line) dispersed and monolayer cell cultures, we investigated the influence of cellular organization on the RPE clock and phagocytosis genes. PCR analysis revealed rhythmic expression of clock and phagocytosis genes in all ARPE-19 cultures. Monolayers had a tendency for higher amplitudes of clock gene oscillations. In all conditions ARNTL, CRY1, PER1-2, REV-ERBα, ITGB5, LAMP1 and PROS1 were rhythmically expressed with REV-ERBα being among the clock genes whose expression showed most robust rhythms in ARPE-19 cells. Using RPE-choroid explant preparations of the mPer2Luc knock-in mice we found that Rev-Erbα deficiency induced significantly longer periods and earlier phases of PER2-bioluminescence oscillations. Furthermore, early phagocytosis factors β5-Integrin and FAK and the lysosomal marker LAMP1 protein levels are rhythmic. Finally, POS incubation affects clock and clock-controlled phagocytosis gene expression in RPE monolayers in a time-dependent manner suggesting that POS can reset the RPE clock. These results shed some light on the complex interplay between POS, the RPE clock and clock-controlled phagocytosis machinery which is modulated by Rev-Erbα.
Staphylococcus hominis subspecies can be identified by SDS-PAGE or MALDI-TOF MS profiles
Authors: Pereira Eliezer Menezes , de Mattos Claudio Simões , dos Santos Olinda Cabral , Ferreira Dennis Carvalho , de Oliveira Tamara Lopes Rocha , Laport Marinella Silva , de Oliveira Ferreira Eliane , dos Santos Katia Regina Netto
Published: August 2019

Staphylococcus hominis is part of the normal human microbiome. Two subspecies, S. hominis hominis (Shh) and S. hominis novobiosepticus (Shn), have clinical significance. Forty-nine S. hominis isolates were analyzed by the MicroScan automated system, SDS-PAGE and MALDI-TOF methods, followed by partial sequencing of the 16S rDNA gene. The trehalose fermentation test, disk diffusion and broth microdilution tests were used to identify (novobiocin test) and access the susceptibility to oxacillin and vancomycin of isolates. The SCCmec elements and genomic diversity were evaluated by PCR and PFGE methods, respectively. Profiles of 28 (57%; 8 Shh and 20 Shn) isolates corroborated with the results found in all the applied methods of identification. The remaining 21 (43%) isolates were phenotypically identified as Shh by MicroScan; however, they were identified as Shn by SDS-PAGE and mass spectral, and confirmed by 16S rDNA sequencing. Among 41 isolates identified as Shn by the molecular and mass spectrometry methods, 19 (41%) were novobiocin-sensitive, and the trehalose test indicated 11 positive isolates, which are considered atypical phenotypic results for this subspecies. In addition, 92.7% of the isolates identified as Shn by these methods carried mecA gene, while only 12.5% of the Shh isolates were positive. Together, the results highlighted the SDS-PAGE and MALDI-TOF MS methods as promising tools for discriminating S. hominis subspecies.
In utero exposure to acetaminophen and ibuprofen leads to intergenerational accelerated reproductive aging in female mice
Authors: Rossitto Moïra , Ollivier Margot , Déjardin Stéphanie , Pruvost Alain , Brun Christine , Marchive Candice , Nguyen Anvi Laetitia , Ghettas Aurélie , Keime Céline , de Massy Bernard , Poulat Francis , Philibert Pascal , Boizet-Bonhoure Brigitte
Published: August 2019

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and analgesic drugs, such as acetaminophen (APAP), are frequently taken during pregnancy, even in combination. However, they can favour genital malformations in newborn boys and reproductive disorders in adults. Conversely, the consequences on postnatal ovarian development and female reproductive health after in utero exposure are unknown. Here, we found that in mice, in utero exposure to therapeutic doses of the APAP-ibuprofen combination during sex determination led to delayed meiosis entry and progression in female F1 embryonic germ cells. Consequently, follicular activation was reduced in postnatal ovaries through the AKT/FOXO3 pathway, leading in F2 animals to subfertility, accelerated ovarian aging with abnormal corpus luteum persistence, due to decreased apoptosis and increased AKT-mediated luteal cell survival. Our study suggests that administration of these drugs during the critical period of sex determination could lead in humans to adverse effects that might be passed to the offspring.
Electrochemical Devices For Forensic Chemical Sensing
Authors: Brown Kelly , Dennany Lynn
Published: August 2019

This chapter covers the range of electrochemical approaches for a variety of chemical sensing utilised within forensic analysis. Electrochemical-based sensors are powerful analytical tools which can be exploited by the forensic community and they have found widespread applications within the fields of illicit drug detection, toxicological analysis, alcohol detection and explosives analysis. This chapter presents an overview of these applications of electrochemical sensing and an assessment of current technological advancements as well as future areas of research. Within the forensic community the need for versatile, portable, selective, sensitive and robust methodologies has made electrochemical sensors an attractive alternative to more traditional analytical technologies. Herein, we will highlight the distinctive prospects electrochemistry offers to the field of forensic chemical analysis as well as showcasing the most significant advancements to date.
Paper Spray Ionization Mass Spectrometry in Forensic Chemistry
Authors: Allochio Filho João Francisco , de Jesus Macrino Clebson , Lacerda Valdemar , Rodrigues Marcella Ferreira , Vaz Boniek G. , Romão Wanderson
Published: August 2019

The chemical identification and determination of any kind of forensic evidence are often required in illegality investigations or even in legal prosecutions, and represent the main goal of forensic chemistry. A variety of types, forms, and complexity of evidence are commonly analyzed in forensic chemistry by different analytical techniques, e.g., hair, blood, urine, saliva, drugs, food, beverages, documents, gunshot residue, explosives, fire residue, agrochemicals, among others. Paper spray ionization mass spectrometry (PSI-MS) is an ambient technique of ionization that provides results quickly with high accuracy, sensitivity and reproducibility, employing a simple, non-destructive, and low-cost sampling procedure, very relevant in analysis of evidence in the forensic chemistry field. In this chapter, the most important methodologies and applications of the PSI-MS will be presented and discussed involving the forensic chemistry analysis in illicit drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, hallucinogens and new psychoactive substances, among others; in addition, the evaluation of agrochemicals, food adulterants, documentoscopy, and explosives will be displayed.
Future Challenges and Point-of-view
Authors: Paixão Thiago R. L. C. , Salles Maiara O. , Coltro Wendell K. T.
Published: August 2019

This book has shown several forensic analytical methods applied to all kinds of forensic samples. Ten different topics were addressed in this book: forensic sampling and sample preparation, Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS), Laser-induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS), Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), electrochemical devices, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Infrared (FTIR and NIRS), paper spray ionization mass spectroscopy, point-of-need and portable miniaturized devices and epigenetics. All of these topics were presented with different applications giving the reader a broad notion on how these analytical techniques are applied to forensic analysis. Nevertheless, there are still challenges in this area that can be overcome by the development of new methods, as will be addressed in this chapter.
Coaxial bioprinting of cell-laden vascular constructs using a gelatin–tyramine bioink
Authors: Hong Soyoung , Kim Ji Seon , Jung Boyoung , Won Chonghyun , Hwang Changmo
Published: August 2019

The study revealed that linear distribution of multiple vascular cells could be achieved using synthetic bioink with short gelling time and a coaxial printing system.
In vitroquantification of botulinum neurotoxin type A1 using immobilized nerve cell-mimicking nanoreactors in a microfluidic platform
Authors: Weingart Oliver G. , Eyer Klaus , Lüchtenborg Christian , Sachsenheimer Timo , Brügger Britta , van Oostrum Marc , Wollscheid Bernd , Dittrich Petra S. , Loessner Martin J.
Published: August 2019

Herein we report anin vitroapproach to selectively quantify physiologically active BoNT/A only. This technology is based on the use of nerve cell-mimicking nanoreactors in combination with microfluidics.
A new analytical method for the determination of beta-blockers and one metabolite in the influents and effluents of three urban wastewater treatment plants
Authors: Iancu Vasile-Ion , Radu Gabriel-Lucian , Scutariu Roxana
Published: August 2019

Pharmaceuticals are emerging contaminants in waste waters from where they are discharged into surface water, so they may be harmful to aquatic organisms.
Esterase-sensitive cleavable histone deacetylase inhibitor-coupled hyaluronic acid nanoparticles for boosting anticancer activities against lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Lee Song Yi , Hong Eun-Hye , Jeong Jae Young , Cho Jaewon , Seo Ji-Hye , Ko Hyun-Jeong , Cho Hyun-Jong
Published: August 2019

4-Phenylbutyric acid (PBA)-installed hyaluronic acid (HA)-based nanoparticles (NPs) were developed for amplifying the anticancer potential of curcumin (CUR) for lung cancer therapy.
Nitrocatecholic copolymers – synthesis and their remarkable binding affinity
Authors: Qiu Shenjie , Zhuang Jianqin , Jin Shi , Yang Nan-Loh
Published: August 2019

Nitro groups remarkably increased the binding affinity of catechol to inorganic and organic materials.
Ti3C2 MXene as a novel substrate provides rapid differentiation and quantitation of glycan isomers with LDI-MS
Authors: Jiang Yuming , Sun Jie , Cui Yi , Liu Huihui , Zhang Xiaoyong , Jiang Yurong , Nie Zongxiu
Published: August 2019

Here we report Ti3C2 MXene assisted LDI-LIFT-TOF/TOF for robust differentiation and relative quantitation of glycan isomers that differ in composition, connectivity and configuration.
Electron injection into titanium dioxide by panchromatic dirhodium photosensitizers with low energy red light
Authors: Xue Congcong , Sayre Hannah J. , Turro Claudia
Published: August 2019

Two new Rh2(ii,ii) dyes were synthesized and anchored to TiO2 for charge injection upon low energy irradiation.
Self-sacrificial organic lithium salt enhanced initial Coulombic efficiency for safer and greener lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Wang Dapeng , Zhang Zhian , Hong Bo , Lai Yanqing
Published: August 2019

Li2DHBA is proposed as a cathode additive that leaves no residue to compensate for first cycle Li loss in Li-ion batteries.
Heterochiral recognition among functionalized heptahelicenes on noble metal surfaces
Authors: Mairena Anaïs , Mendieta Jesus I. , Stetsovych Oleksandr , Terfort Andreas , Stará Irena G. , Starý Ivo , Jelínek Pavel , Ernst Karl-Heinz
Published: August 2019

No matter which heptahelicene derivative, all assemble into heterochiral zigzag chains on gold and silver(111) surfaces.
Zirconia-supported rhenium oxide as an efficient catalyst for the synthesis of biomass-based adipic acid ester
Authors: Lin Jinchi , Song Haiyan , Shen Xiaoru , Wang Binju , Xie Shunji , Deng Weiping , Wu Deyin , Zhang Qinghong , Wang Ye
Published: August 2019

ZrO2-Supported ReOx is an efficient catalyst for the synthesis of adipic acid ester from cellulose-derived glucaric acid.
Surface chemical state evaluation of CoSe2 catalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Zhang Chengzhe , Tang Bo , Gu Xiaocong , Feng Ligang
Published: August 2019

The critical condition for efficient metallic Co–Se bonding construction and its significance for the oxygen evolution reaction were demonstrated.
A charge optimized many-body potential for iron/iron-fluoride systems
Authors: Tangarife E. , Romero A. H. , Mejía-López J.
Published: August 2019

A classical interatomic potential for iron/iron-fluoride systems is developed in the framework of the charge optimized many-body (COMB) potential.
A facile and mild strategy to fabricate an underwater superoleophobic and underoil superhydrophobic mesh with outstanding anti-viscous oil-fouling properties for switchable high viscosity oil/water separation
Authors: Zhang Jin , Zhang Lu , Zhao Jianguo , Qu Wenshan , Wang Zhenxing
Published: August 2019

Underwater superoleophobic and underoil superhydrophobic mesh has been prepared for switchable high viscosity oil/water separation.
Boron-doped graphene quantum dots: an efficient photoanode for a dye sensitized solar cell
Authors: M. Vijaya Prabhagar. , Kumar M. Praveen , Takahashi Chisato , Kundu Subrata , Narayanan Tharangattu N. , Pattanayak Deepak K.
Published: August 2019

A cost effective boron doped graphene quantum dot from boron carbide graphene by microwave reactor assisted process that can tune the properties of metal oxides for DSSC application is proposed by D. K. Pattanayak, S. Kundu, T. N. Narayanan and co-workers.
Design, synthesis, in silico docking studies and biological evaluation of novel quinoxaline-hydrazide hydrazone-1,2,3-triazole hybrids as α-glucosidase inhibitors and antioxidants
Authors: Settypalli Triloknadh , Chunduri Venkata Rao , Maddineni Aruna Kumari , Begari Nagaraju , Allagadda Rajasekhar , Kotha Peddanna , Chippada Appa Rao
Published: August 2019

Novel quinoxaline-hydrazidehydrazone-1,2,3-triazole hybrids were synthesized, characterized and screened for α-glucosidase inhibitory and antioxidant activities.
A FRET-based ratiometric fluorescent probe for highly selective detection of cysteine based on a coumarin–rhodol derivative
Authors: Bai Yu , Wu Ming-Xia , Ma Qiu-Juan , Wang Chun-Yan , Sun Jing-Guo , Tian Mei-Ju , Li Jian-Sheng
Published: August 2019

A ratiometric fluorescent probe for detecting cysteine was designed and synthesized based on the fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) process.
Biodegradable zwitterionic nanoparticles with tunable UCST-type phase separation under physiological conditions
Authors: Sponchioni Mattia , Rodrigues Bassam Paola , Moscatelli Davide , Arosio Paolo , Capasso Palmiero Umberto
Published: August 2019

We report tunable biodegradable zwitterionic nanoparticles with UCST behavior under physiological conditions that can be used in controlled delivery strategies.
High-quality graphene transfer via directional etching of metal substrates
Authors: Zhang Xuewei , Wu Zehao , Zheng Haoran , Ren Qiancheng , Zou Zhenxing , Mei Le , Zhang Zilong , Xia Yang , Lin Cheng-Te , Zhao Pei , Wang Hongtao
Published: August 2019

The quality of chemical-vapor-deposited graphene can be significantly improved by directional removal of the underlying Cu substrate.
Catalytic manganese oxide nanostructures for the reverse water gas shift reaction
Authors: He Yulian , Yang Ke R. , Yu Ziwei , Fishman Zachary S. , Achola Laura A. , Tobin Zachary M. , Heinlein Jake A. , Hu Shu , Suib Steven L. , Batista Victor S. , Pfefferle Lisa D.
Published: August 2019

We develop efficient synthetic methods to prepare various MnO2 structures and investigate their structure–property relationships as applied to the reverse Water Gas Shift (rWGS) reaction with a combination of experimental and theoretical tools.
Correction: pH sensitivity of interfacial electron transfer at a supported graphene monolayer
Authors: Wehrhold Michel , Neubert Tilmann J. , Yadav Anur , Vondráček Martin , Iost Rodrigo M. , Honolka Jan , Balasubramanian Kannan
Published: August 2019

Correction for ‘pH sensitivity of interfacial electron transfer at a supported graphene monolayer’ by Michel Wehrhold et al., Nanoscale, 2019, DOI: 10.1039/c9nr05049c.
Mechanistic insights into ring cleavage of hydroquinone by PnpCD from quantum mechanical/molecular mechanical calculations
Authors: Li Senzhi , Lu Jiarui , Lai Wenzhen
Published: August 2019

QM/MM calculations for ring cleavage of hydroquinone by PnpCD show that Asn258 loses coordination to the iron when the reaction begins. The first-sphere Glu262 can act as an acid–base catalyst to lower the rate-limiting barrier.
Copper-catalysed C–H functionalisation gives access to 2-aminobenzimidazoles
Authors: Clark Peter R. , Williams Glynn D. , Tomkinson Nicholas C. O.
Published: August 2019

This paper describes the development, optimisation and exemplification of a copper-catalysed C–H functionalisation to form pharmaceutically relevant 2-aminobenzimidazoles from aryl-guanidines.
On the primary structure of polysilenes and polygermenes
Authors: Farhadpour Bahareh , Guo Jiacheng , Hairsine Douglas W. , Gilroy Joe B. , Baines Kim M.
Published: August 2019

Materials derived from the anionic polymerization of a silene or a germene have a regular, alternating structure without any significant rearrangement taking place during polymerization.
New strategy towards the assembly of hierarchical heterostructures of SnO2/ZnO for NO2 detection at a ppb level
Authors: Xu Manzhang , Yu Runwei , Guo Yuxi , Chen Cheng , Han Qingqing , Di Jun , Song Pin , Zheng Lu , Zhang Zhiyong , Yan Junfeng , Zhao Wu , Yun Jiangni , Liu Cheng , Li Qiang , Wang Yingnan , Wang Xuewen , Liu Zheng
Published: August 2019

The SnO2/ZnO hierarchical heterostructures (HHSs) were synthesized via the microwave-assisted hydrothermal method, and the SnO2/ZnO HHSs based sensor exhibited ultra-low detection limit of 2 ppb for detecting NO2.
Iron phosphide anchored nanoporous carbon as an efficient electrode for supercapacitors and the oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Yousef Ahmed K. , Kim Yena , Bhanja Piyali , Mei Peng , Pramanik Malay , Sanad M. M. S. , Rashad M. M. , El-Sayed A. Y. , Alshehri Abdulmohsen Ali , Alghamdi Yousef Gamaan , Alzahrani Khalid Ahmed , Ide Yusuke , Lin Jianjian , Yamauchi Yusuke
Published: August 2019

Synthesis of a nanoporous FeP/C material through a two-step method involving hydrothermal and carbonization processes for supercapacitors and the oxygen reduction reaction.
Zein film functionalized with gold nanoparticles and the factors affecting its mechanical properties
Authors: Puthiyaveetil Yoosaf Mohammed Ajmal , Jayaprakash Anjana , Ghosh Somnath , Jaswal Vivek Sheel , Singh Kuldeep , Mandal Soumit , Shahid M. , Yadav Munendra , Das Subhojit , Kumar Pankaj
Published: August 2019

A green chemical approach to substitute biologically hazardous polymer.
Copper-catalyzed direct C–H arylselenation of 4-nitro-pyrazoles and other heterocycles with selenium powder and aryl iodides. Access to unsymmetrical heteroaryl selenides
Authors: Jakubczyk Michał , Mkrtchyan Satenik , Madura Izabela D. , Marek Paulina H. , Iaroshenko Viktor O.
Published: August 2019

In this work, we elaborated a general and straightforward method which permits the rapid assembly of unsymmetrical heteroaryl-aryl selenides containing 4-nitropyrazole, 4-nitroimidazole and a few other heterocyclic scaffolds.
Retracted Article: Knockdown of NEAT1 ameliorated MPP+-induced neuronal damage by sponging miR-221 in SH-SY5Y cells
Authors: Geng Lijiao , Zhao Jun , Liu Wei , Chen Yong
Published: August 2019

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have recently attracted increasing attention for their involvement in a wide variety of human neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson's disease (PD).
Identification of strategic molecules for future circular supply chains using large reaction networks
Authors: Weber Jana Marie , Lió Pietro , Lapkin Alexei A.
Published: August 2019

Networks of chemical reactions represent relationships between molecules within chemical supply chains and promise to enhance planning of multi-step synthesis routes from bio-renewable feedstocks.
Comparison of student attitudes and performance in an online and a face-to-face inorganic chemistry course
Authors: Nennig Hannah T. , Idárraga Katrina L. , Salzer Luke D. , Bleske-Rechek April , Theisen Roslyn M.
Published: August 2019

Despite recent interest in online learning, systematic comparisons of online learning environments with traditional classroom environments are limited, particularly in the sciences. Here, we report on a systematic comparison of an online and face-to-face classroom for a sophomore-level, lecture-only introductory inorganic chemistry course that is designed for students pursuing a chemistry major or minor. The online group consisted of three sections of students enrolled in Introduction to Inorganic Chemistry during two 8 week summer terms and one 4 week winter term. The face-to-face group consisted of two sections of students enrolled in Introduction to Inorganic Chemistry during two 15 week semesters. Both groups of students completed ten common exam questions, and a validated and reliable measure of their attitudes toward chemistry (Attitude toward the Subject of Chemistry Inventory Version 2: ASCIv2). Students in the online course and face-to-face course did not differ in their performance on the common exam questions, course grade distribution, or attitudes toward chemistry. Although few studies have compared online and face-to-face learning environments in the physical sciences, our results are consistent with the idea that students who complete an online course fare just as well as those who attend face-to-face classes.
Assisted delivery of anti-tumour platinum drugs using DNA-coiling gold nanoparticles bearing lumophores and intercalators: towards a new generation of multimodal nanocarriers with enhanced action
Authors: Caballero Ana B. , Cardo Lucia , Claire Sunil , Craig James S. , Hodges Nikolas J. , Vladyka Anton , Albrecht Tim , Rochford Luke A. , Pikramenou Zoe , Hannon Michael J.
Published: August 2019

Nanocarriers with unusual DNA binding properties provide enhanced cytotoxic activity beyond that conferred by the platinum agents they release.
Ultra-permeable polyamide membranes harvested by covalent organic framework nanofiber scaffolds: a two-in-one strategy
Authors: Zhang Zhe , Shi Xiansong , Wang Rui , Xiao Ankang , Wang Yong
Published: August 2019

We demonstrated a two-in-one strategy for the fabrication of ultra-permeable polyamide layers featuring ultrathin thicknesses and increased water transport domains.
Controlling the strength of interaction between carbon dioxide and nitrogen-rich carbon materials by molecular design
Authors: Walczak Ralf , Savateev Aleksandr , Heske Julian , Tarakina Nadezda V. , Sahoo Sudhir , Epping Jan D. , Kühne Thomas D. , Kurpil Bogdan , Antonietti Markus , Oschatz Martin
Published: August 2019

Size selective adsorption of carbon dioxide over nitrogen is maximized in a nitrogen-rich carbon material prepared from a preorganized molecular precursor.
Correction: Elucidation of photovoltage origin and charge transport in Cu2O heterojunctions for solar energy conversion
Authors: Cendula Peter , Mayer Matthew T. , Luo Jingshan , Grätzel Michael
Published: August 2019

Correction for ‘Elucidation of photovoltage origin and charge transport in Cu2O heterojunctions for solar energy conversion’ by Peter Cendula et al., Sustainable Energy Fuels, 2019, DOI: 10.1039/c9se00385a.
Implicit-solvent coarse-grained modeling for polymer solutionsviaMori-Zwanzig formalism
Authors: Wang Shu , Li Zhen , Pan Wenxiao
Published: August 2019

We present a bottom-up coarse-graining (CG) method to establish implicit-solvent CG modeling for polymers in solution, which conserves the dynamic properties of the reference microscopic system.
Soft matter from liquid crystals
Authors: Kim Young-Ki , Noh JungHyun , Nayani Karthik , Abbott Nicholas L.
Published: August 2019

We review advances in soft matter research based on liquid crystals, including recent studies of liquid crystals beyond equilibrium.
Hydrogen-bonded diketopyrrolopyrrole derivatives for energy-related applications
Authors: Ruiz-Carretero Amparo , Ávila Rovelo Nelson Ricardo , Militzer Swann , Mésini Philippe J.
Published: August 2019

The impact of H-bonding on the optoelectronic properties and device morphology of diketopyrrolopyrrole derivatives is reviewed.
Atomically dispersed Fe–Nx active sites within hierarchical mesoporous carbon as efficient electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Gu Wenling , Wu Maochun , Sun Jing , Xu Jianbo , Zhao Tianshou
Published: August 2019

A novel protocol for synthesis of high performance N-doped hierarchically porous graphitic carbon electrocatalysts with single Fe atoms by pyrolyzing a mesoporous Fe–polydopamine precursor without an extra template removal process.
Preparation and enhanced photocatalytic performance of sulfur doped terminal-methylated g-C3N4 nanosheets with extended visible-light response
Authors: Li Yunfeng , Wang Shuai , Chang Wei , Zhang Luohong , Wu Zhansheng , Song Shuyan , Xing Yan
Published: August 2019

Midgap electronic states generated in sulfur doped terminal-methylated g-C3N4 extend the visible-light response to 700 nm, leading to an efficient photocatalytic performance.
A theranostic saponin nano-assembly based on FRET of an aggregation-induced emission photosensitizer and photon up-conversion nanoparticles
Authors: Fu Hao , Huang Yongkang , Lu Hongguang , An Jinxia , Liu De-E. , Zhang Yongxin , Chen Qixian , Gao Hui
Published: August 2019

Near-infrared theranostic saponin nano-assembly was engineered based on fluorescence resonance energy transfer of an AIEgen and photon up-conversion nanoparticles.
Pyrrolidinium containing perovskites with thermal stability and water resistance for photovoltaics
Authors: Xu Alex Fan , Wang Ryan Taoran , Yang Lory Wenjuan , Liu Na , Chen Qi , LaPierre Ray , Isik Goktas Nebile , Xu Gu
Published: August 2019

A pyrrolidinium based perovskite with both excellent thermal stability and moisture resistance.
Thiazolothienyl imide-based wide bandgap copolymers for efficient polymer solar cells
Authors: Shi Yongqiang , Tang Yumin , Yang Kun , Qin Minchao , Wang Yang , Sun Huiliang , Su Mengyao , Lu Xinhui , Zhou Ming , Guo Xugang
Published: August 2019

Thiazolothienyl imide based wide bandgap polymers were synthesized and afforded a power conversion efficiency of 8.00% in polymer solar cells.
High-efficiency ternary nonfullerene organic solar cells fabricated with a near infrared acceptor enhancing exciton utilization and extending absorption
Authors: Wang Bei , Fu Yingying , Yang Qingqing , Wu Jiang , Liu He , Tang Hao , Xie Zhiyuan
Published: August 2019

Incorporating an infrared nonfullerene acceptor O6T-4F enhances the exciton utilization and extends the absorption, leading to an increased PCE of organic solar cells.
In vitro and in vivo investigation of cardiotoxicity associated with anticancer proteasome inhibitors and their combination with anthracycline
Authors: Pokorna Zuzana , Jirkovsky Eduard , Hlavackova Marketa , Jansova Hana , Jirkovska Anna , Lencova-Popelova Olga , Brazdova Petra , Kubes Jan , Sotakova-Kasparova Dita , Mazurova Yvona , Adamcova Michaela , Vostatkova Lucie , Holzerova Kristyna , Kolar Frantisek , Simunek Tomas , Sterba Martin
Published: August 2019

Although proteasome inhibitors (PIs) are modern targeted anticancer drugs, they have been associated with a certain risk of cardiotoxicity and heart failure (HF). Recently, PIs have been combined with anthracyclines (ANTs) to further boost their anticancer efficacy. However, this raised concerns regarding cardiac safety, which were further supported by several in vitro studies on immature cardiomyocytes. In the present study, we investigated the toxicity of clinically used PIs alone (bortezomib (BTZ), carfilzomib (CFZ)) as well as their combinations with an ANT (daunorubicin (DAU)) in both neonatal and adult ventricular cardiomyocytes (NVCMs and AVCMs) and in a chronic rabbit model of DAU-induced HF. Using NVCMs, we found significant cytotoxicity of both PIs around their maximum plasma concentration (cmax) as well as significant augmentation of DAU cytotoxicity. In AVCMs, BTZ did not induce significant cytotoxicity in therapeutic concentrations, whereas the toxicity of CFZ was significant and more profound. Importantly, neither PI significantly augmented the cardiotoxicity of DAU despite even more profound proteasome-inhibitory activity in AVCMs compared with NVCMs. Furthermore, in young adult rabbits, no significant augmentation of chronic ANT cardiotoxicity was noted with respect to any functional, morphological, biochemical or molecular parameter under study, despite significant inhibition of myocardial proteasome activity. Our experimental data show that combination of PIs with ANTs is not accompanied by an exaggerated risk of cardiotoxicity and HF in young adult animal cardiomyocytes and hearts.