bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High speed e-beam writing for large area photonic nanostructures — a choice of parameters
Authors: Li Kezheng , Li Juntao , Reardon Christopher , Schuster Christian S. , Wang Yue , Triggs Graham J. , Damnik Niklas , Müenchenberger Jana , Wang Xuehua , Martins Emiliano R. , Krauss Thomas F.
Published: September 2016

Photonic nanostructures are used for many optical systems and applications. However, some high-end applications require the use of electron-beam lithography (EBL) to generate such nanostructures. An important technological bottleneck is the exposure time of the EBL systems, which can exceed 24 hours per 1 cm2. Here, we have developed a method based on a target function to systematically increase the writing speed of EBL. As an example, we use as the target function the fidelity of the Fourier Transform spectra of nanostructures that are designed for thin film light trapping applications, and optimize the full parameter space of the lithography process. Finally, we are able to reduce the exposure time by a factor of 5.5 without loss of photonic performance. We show that the performances of the fastest written structures are identical to the original ones within experimental error. As the target function can be varied according to different purposes, the method is also applicable to guided mode resonant grating and many other areas. These findings contribute to the advancement of EBL and point towards making the technology more attractive for commercial applications.
USP16 Downregulation by Carboxyl-terminal Truncated HBx Promotes the Growth of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Qian Yu , Wang Boshi , Ma Aihui , Zhang Li , Xu Guiqin , Ding Qi , Jing Tiantian , Wu Lin , Liu Yun , Yang Zhaojuan , Liu Yongzhong
Published: September 2016

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major factor that contributes to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). HBV X protein (HBx) has been shown to accelerate HCC progression by promoting tumour growth and metastasis. In the clinic, carboxyl-terminal truncated HBx (Ct-HBx) proteins are frequently present in HCC tumour tissues, but not in non-tumorous tissues. In this study, we analysed deubiquitinase expression profiles in cells with or without ectopic expression of the Ct-HBx proteins and observed that the expression of ubiquitin specific peptidase 16 (USP16) was substantially inhibited by Ct-HBx proteins. Liver tumour cells with forced down-regulation of USP16 exhibited increased capabilities for colony formation and tumour growth in vivo. In addition, USP16 inhibition promoted stem-like properties in tumour cells, as evidenced by their spheroid formation and chemo-responsiveness. Furthermore, ectopic expression of USP16 in tumour cells significantly abrogated the tumour promoting activities of the Ct-HBx proteins (HBxΔ35), leading to decreased tumour cell viability and tumour growth. In human HCCs, USP16 was frequently downregulated, and the decreased expression of USP16 was correlated with high tumour stages and poor differentiation status. Taken together, our study suggests that USP16 downregulation is a critical event in Ct-HBx-mediated promotion of HCC tumorigenicity and malignancy.
The famous cultivated mushroom Bailinggu is a separate species of the Pleurotus eryngii species complex
Authors: Zhao Mengran , Zhang Jinxia , Chen Qiang , Wu Xiangli , Gao Wei , Deng Wangqiu , Huang Chenyang
Published: September 2016

The mushroom of the genus Pleurotus in western China, called Bailinggu, is a precious edible fungus with high economic value. However, its taxonomical position is unclear. Some researchers regard it as a variety of P. eryngii, namely P. eryngii var. tuoliensis, whereas others consider it to be a subspecies of P. eryngii, viz. P. eryngii subsp. tuoliensis. A total of 51 samples representing seven genetic groups of the genus Pleurotus were subjected to a phylogenetic analysis of partial sequences of the translation elongation factor 1 alpha gene (ef1a), the RNA polymerase II largest subunit gene (rpb1), the RNA polymerase II second largest subunit gene (rpb2) and nuc rDNA internal transcribed spacers (ITS). Our data indicate that the mushroom Bailinggu is a lineage independent of P. eryngii and should be lifted as its own species, namely P. tuoliensis. In addition, its known distribution range consists of both western China and Iran.
Structural modulation of the gut microbiota and the relationship with body weight: compared evaluation of liraglutide and saxagliptin treatment
Authors: Wang Lin , Li Peicheng , Tang Zhaosheng , Yan Xinfeng , Feng Bo
Published: September 2016

The mechanisms underlying the weight-loss effect of GLP-1 receptor agonists need further elucidation. The present study was performed to explore the effects of liraglutide and saxagliptin on the composition of the gut microbiota. Mice were randomly treated with saxagliptin or liraglutide for eight weeks. Their metabolic profiles were assessed, and 454 pyrosequencing of 16s rRNA of faeces was performed. Liraglutide induced a smaller body weight gain in mice. The pyrosequencing showed that liraglutide, but not saxagliptin, substantially changed the overall structure of the gut microbiota as well as the relative abundance of weight-relevant phylotypes. Subsequent ridge regression analyses indicated that, in addition to food intake (β = −0.182, p = 0.043 in phylotypes inversely correlated with body weight) and blood glucose level (β = −0.240, p = 0.039 in phylotypes positively correlated with body weight), the administration of liraglutide was another independent factor associated with the abundance of weight-relevant phylotypes (β = 0.389, p = 6.24e-5 in inversely correlated ones; β = −0.508, p = 2.25e-5 in positively correlated ones). These results evidenced that GLP-1 receptor agonist liraglutide could modulate the composition of the gut microbiota, leading to a more lean-related profile that was consistent with its weight-losing effect.
Entinostat up-regulates the CAMP gene encoding LL-37 via activation of STAT3 and HIF-1α transcription factors
Authors: Miraglia Erica , Nylén Frank , Johansson Katarina , Arnér Elias , Cebula Marcus , Farmand Susan , Ottosson Håkan , Strömberg Roger , Gudmundsson Gudmundur H. , Agerberth Birgitta , Bergman Peter
Published: September 2016

Bacterial resistance against classical antibiotics is a growing problem and the development of new antibiotics is limited. Thus, novel alternatives to antibiotics are warranted. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are effector molecules of innate immunity that can be induced by several compounds, including vitamin D and phenyl-butyrate (PBA). Utilizing a luciferase based assay, we recently discovered that the histone deacetylase inhibitor Entinostat is a potent inducer of the CAMP gene encoding the human cathelicidin LL-37. Here we investigate a mechanism for the induction and also find that Entinostat up-regulates human β-defensin 1. Analysis of the CAMP promoter sequence revealed binding sites for the transcription factors STAT3 and HIF-1α. By using short hairpin RNA and selective inhibitors, we found that both transcription factors are involved in Entinostat-induced expression of LL-37. However, only HIF-1α was found to be recruited to the CAMP promoter, suggesting that Entinostat activates STAT3, which promotes transcription of CAMP by increasing the expression of HIF-1α. Finally, we provide in vivo relevance to our findings by showing that Entinostat-elicited LL-37 expression was impaired in macrophages from a patient with a STAT3-mutation. Combined, our findings support a role for STAT3 and HIF-1α in the regulation of LL-37 expression.
Micro-optical coherence tomography of the mammalian cochlea
Authors: Iyer Janani S. , Batts Shelley A. , Chu Kengyeh K. , Sahin Mehmet I. , Leung Hui Min , Tearney Guillermo J. , Stankovic Konstantina M.
Published: September 2016

The mammalian cochlea has historically resisted attempts at high-resolution, non-invasive imaging due to its small size, complex three-dimensional structure, and embedded location within the temporal bone. As a result, little is known about the relationship between an individual’s cochlear pathology and hearing function, and otologists must rely on physiological testing and imaging methods that offer limited resolution to obtain information about the inner ear prior to performing surgery. Micro-optical coherence tomography (μOCT) is a non-invasive, low-coherence interferometric imaging technique capable of resolving cellular-level anatomic structures. To determine whether μOCT is capable of resolving mammalian intracochlear anatomy, fixed guinea pig inner ears were imaged as whole temporal bones with cochlea in situ. Anatomical structures such as the tunnel of Corti, space of Nuel, modiolus, scalae, and cell groupings were visualized, in addition to individual cell types such as neuronal fibers, hair cells, and supporting cells. Visualization of these structures, via volumetrically-reconstructed image stacks and endoscopic perspective videos, represents an improvement over previous efforts using conventional OCT. These are the first μOCT images of mammalian cochlear anatomy, and they demonstrate μOCT’s potential utility as an imaging tool in otology research.
Temporal variations of black carbon during haze and non-haze days in Beijing
Authors: Liu Qingyang , Ma Tangming , Olson Michael R , Liu Yanju , Zhang Tingting , Wu Yu , Schauer James J.
Published: September 2016

Black carbon (BC) aerosol has been identified as one of key factors responsible for air quality in Beijing. BC emissions abatement could help slow regional climate change while providing benefits for public health. In order to quantify its variations and contribution to air pollution, we systematically studied real-time measurements of equivalent black carbon (eBC) in PM2.5 aerosols at an urban site in Beijing from 2010 to 2014. Equivalent black carbon (eBC) is used instead of black carbon (BC) for data derived from Aethalometer-31 measurement. Equivalent BC concentrations showed significant temporal variations with seasonal mean concentration varying between 2.13 and 5.97 μg m−3. The highest concentrations of eBC were found during autumn and winter, and the lowest concentrations occurred in spring. We assessed the temporal variations of eBC concentration during haze days versus non-haze days and found significantly lower eBC fractions in PM2.5 on haze days compared to those on non-haze days. Finally, we observed a clear inverse relationship between eBC and wind speed. Our results show that wind disperses PM2.5 more efficiently than eBC; so, secondary aerosols are not formed to the same degree as primary aerosols over the same transport distance during windy conditions.
THBS2 is a Potential Prognostic Biomarker in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Wang Xue , Zhang Lei , Li Hui , Sun WenJie , Zhang Honghe , Lai Maode
Published: September 2016

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common leading causes of death worldwide. Prognostic at an early stage is a useful way that decrease and avoid mortality. Although remarkable progress has been made to investigate the underlying mechanism, the understanding of the complicated carcinogenesis process was enormously hindered by large-scale tumor heterogeneity. Here we proposed that the prognosis-related gene THBS2, responsible for cooperativity disorientation, probably contain untapped prognostic resource of colorectal cancer. We originally established Spearman correlation transition, Kaplan–Meier survival analysis and meta-analysis that combine public dataset and clinical samples to quantify the prognostic value of THBS2. THBS2 could be considered as a novel prognostic marker in colorectal cancer.
Phenotypic, histological and proteomic analyses reveal multiple differences associated with chloroplast development in yellow and variegated variants from Camellia sinensis
Authors: Ma Chengying , Cao Junxi , Li Jianke , Zhou Bo , Tang Jinchi , Miao Aiqing
Published: September 2016

Leaf colour variation is observed in several plants. We obtained two types of branches with yellow and variegated leaves from Camellia sinensis. To reveal the mechanisms that underlie the leaf colour variations, combined morphological, histological, ionomic and proteomic analyses were performed using leaves from abnormal branches (variants) and normal branches (CKs). The measurement of the CIE-Lab coordinates showed that the brightness and yellowness of the variants were more intense than the CKs. When chloroplast profiles were analysed, HY1 (branch with yellow leaves) and HY2 (branch with variegated leaves) displayed abnormal chloroplast structures and a reduced number and size compared with the CKs, indicating that the abnormal chloroplast development might be tightly linked to the leaf colour variations. Moreover, the concentration of elemental minerals was different between the variants and the CKs. Furthermore, DEPs (differentially expressed proteins) were identified in the variants and the CKs by a quantitative proteomics analysis using the label-free approach. The DEPs were significantly involved in photosynthesis and included PSI, PSII, cytochrome b6/f complex, photosynthetic electron transport, LHC and F-type ATPase. Our results suggested that a decrease in the abundance of photosynthetic proteins might be associated with the changes of leaf colours in tea plants.
Fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling regulates transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ)-dependent smooth muscle cell phenotype modulation
Authors: Chen Pei-Yu , Qin Lingfeng , Li Guangxin , Tellides George , Simons Michael
Published: September 2016

Smooth muscle cells (SMCs) in normal blood vessels exist in a highly differentiate state characterized by expression of SMC-specific contractile proteins (“contractile phenotype”). Following blood vessel injuryin vivoor when culturedin vitroin the presence of multiple growth factors, SMC undergo a phenotype switch characterized by the loss of contractile markers and appearance of expression of non-muscle proteins (“proliferative phenotype”). While a number of factors have been reported to modulate this process, its regulation remains uncertain. Here we show that induction of SMC FGF signaling inhibits TGFβsignaling and converts contractile SMCs to the proliferative phenotype. Conversely, inhibition of SMC FGF signaling induces TGFβsignaling converting proliferating SMCs to the contractile phenotype, even in the presence of various growth factorsin vitroor vascular injuryin vivo. The importance of this signaling cross-talk is supported byin vivodata that show that an SMC deletion of a pan-FGF receptor adaptorFrs2α(fibroblast growth factor receptor substrate 2 alpha) in mice profoundly reduces neointima formation and vascular remodelling following carotid artery ligation. These results demonstrate that FGF-TGFβsignaling antagonism is the primary regulator of the SMC phenotype switch. Manipulation of this cross-talk may be an effective strategy for treatment of SMC-proliferation related diseases.
Erratum: Histological response of soda-lime glass-ceramic bactericidal rods implanted in the jaws of beagle dogs
Authors: Moya José S. , Martínez Arturo , López-Píriz Roberto , Guitián Francisco , Díaz Luis A. , Esteban-Tejeda Leticia , Cabal Belén , Sket Federico , Fernández-García Elisa , Tomsia Antoni P. , Torrecillas Ramón
Published: September 2016

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 31478; published online: 12 August 2016; updated: 16 September 2016.
Correction: Corrigendum: Polymorphisms in the Mannose-Binding Lectin Gene are Associated with Defective Mannose-Binding Lectin Functional Activity in Crohn’s Disease Patients
Authors: Choteau Laura , Vasseur Francis , Lepretre Frederic , Figeac Martin , Gower-Rousseau Corine , Dubuquoy Laurent , Poulain Daniel , Colombel Jean-Frederic , Sendid Boualem , Jawhara Samir
Published: September 2016

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 29636; published online: 12 July 2016; updated: 16 September 2016.
Copper(II) ions affect the gating dynamics of the 20S proteasome: a molecular and in cell study
Authors: Santoro Anna Maria , Monaco Irene , Attanasio Francesco , Lanza Valeria , Pappalardo Giuseppe , Tomasello Marianna Flora , Cunsolo Alessandra , Rizzarelli Enrico , De Luigi Ada , Salmona Mario , Milardi Danilo
Published: September 2016

Due to their altered metabolism cancer cells are more sensitive to proteasome inhibition or changes of copper levels than normal cells. Thus, the development of copper complexes endowed with proteasome inhibition features has emerged as a promising anticancer strategy. However, limited information is available about the exact mechanism by which copper inhibits proteasome. Here we show that Cu(II) ions simultaneously inhibit the three peptidase activities of isolated 20S proteasomes with potencies (IC50) in the micromolar range. Cu(II) ions, in cell-free conditions, neither catalyze red-ox reactions nor disrupt the assembly of the 20S proteasome but, rather, promote conformational changes associated to impaired channel gating. Notably, HeLa cells grown in a Cu(II)-supplemented medium exhibit decreased proteasome activity. This effect, however, was attenuated in the presence of an antioxidant. Our results suggest that if, on one hand, Cu(II)-inhibited 20S activities may be associated to conformational changes that favor the closed state of the core particle, on the other hand the complex effect induced by Cu(II) ions in cancer cells is the result of several concurring events including ROS-mediated proteasome flooding, and disassembly of the 26S proteasome into its 20S and 19S components.
Maternal Genetic Ancestry and Legacy of 10th Century AD Hungarians
Authors: Csősz Aranka , Szécsényi-Nagy Anna , Csákyová Veronika , Langó Péter , Bódis Viktória , Köhler Kitti , Tömöry Gyöngyvér , Nagy Melinda , Mende Balázs Gusztáv
Published: September 2016

The ancient Hungarians originated from the Ural region in today’s central Russia and migrated across the Eastern European steppe, according to historical sources. The Hungarians conquered the Carpathian Basin 895–907 AD, and admixed with the indigenous communities. Here we present mitochondrial DNA results from three datasets: one from the Avar period (7th–9th centuries) of the Carpathian Basin (n = 31); one from the Hungarian conquest-period (n = 76); and a completion of the published 10th–12th century Hungarian-Slavic contact zone dataset by four samples. We compare these mitochondrial DNA hypervariable segment sequences and haplogroup results with published ancient and modern Eurasian data. Whereas the analyzed Avars represents a certain group of the Avar society that shows East and South European genetic characteristics, the Hungarian conquerors’ maternal gene pool is a mixture of West Eurasian and Central and North Eurasian elements. Comprehensively analyzing the results, both the linguistically recorded Finno-Ugric roots and historically documented Turkic and Central Asian influxes had possible genetic imprints in the conquerors’ genetic composition. Our data allows a complex series of historic and population genetic events before the formation of the medieval population of the Carpathian Basin, and the maternal genetic continuity between 10th–12th century and modern Hungarians.
Towards Biocontained Cell Factories: An Evolutionarily Adapted Escherichia coliStrain Produces a New-to-nature Bioactive Lantibiotic ContainingThienopyrrole-Alanine
Authors: Kuthning Anja , Durkin Patrick , Oehm Stefan , Hoesl Michael G. , Budisa Nediljko , Süssmuth Roderich D.
Published: September 2016

Genetic code engineering that enables reassignment of genetic codons to non-canonicalamino acids (ncAAs) is a powerful strategy for enhancing ribosomally synthesizedpeptides and proteins with functions not commonly found in Nature. Here we reportthe expression of a ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modifiedpeptide (RiPP), the 32-mer lantibiotic lichenicidin with a canonical tryptophan(Trp) residue replaced by the ncAAL-β-(thieno[3,2-b]pyrrolyl)alanine ([3,2]Tpa) which doesnot sustain cell growth in the culture. We have demonstrated that cellular toxicityof [3,2]Tpa for the production of the new-to-nature bioactive congener oflichenicidin in the host Escherichia coli can be alleviated by using anevolutionarily adapted host strain MT21 which not only tolerates [3,2]Tpa but alsouses it as a proteome-wide synthetic building block. This work underscores thefeasibility of the biocontainment concept and establishes a general framework fordesign and large scale production of RiPPs with evolutionarily adapted hoststrains.
Observation of re-entrant spin reorientation in TbFe1−xMnxO3
Authors: Fang Yifei , Yang Ya , Liu Xinzhi , Kang Jian , Hao Lijie , Chen Xiping , Xie Lei , Sun Guangai , Chandragiri Venkatesh , Wang Chin-Wei , Cao Yiming , Chen Fei , Liu Yuntao , Chen Dongfeng , Cao Shixun , Lin Chengtian , Ren Wei , Zhang Jincang
Published: September 2016

We report a spin reorientation from Γ4(Gx, Ay, Fz) to Γ1(Ax, Gy, Cz) magnetic configuration near room temperature and a re-entrant transition from Γ1(Ax, Gy, Cz) to Γ4(Gx, Ay, Fz) at low temperature in TbFe1−xMnxO3 single crystals by performing both magnetization and neutron diffraction measurements. The Γ4 − Γ1 spin reorientation temperature can be enhanced to room temperature when x is around 0.5 ~ 0.6. These new transitions are distinct from the well-known Γ4 − Γ2 transition observed in TbFeO3, and the sinusoidal antiferromagnetism to complex spiral magnetism transition observed in multiferroic TbMnO3. We further study the evolution of magnetic entropy change (−ΔSM) versus Mn concentration to reveal the mechanism of the re-entrant spin reorientation behavior and the complex magnetic phase at low temperature. The variation of −ΔSM between a and c axes indicates the significant change of magnetocrystalline anisotropy energy in the TbFe1−xMnxO3 system. Furthermore, as Jahn-Teller inactive Fe3+ ions coexist with Jahn-Teller active Mn3+ ions, various anisotropy interactions, compete with each other, giving rise to a rich magnetic phase diagram. The large magnetocaloric effect reveals that the studied material could be a potential magnetic refrigerant. These findings expand our knowledge of spin reorientation phenomena and offer the alternative realization of spin-switching devices at room temperature in the rare-earth orthoferrites.
Application of RNA-seq for mitogenome reconstruction, and reconsideration of long-branch artifacts in Hemiptera phylogeny
Authors: Song Nan , An Shiheng , Yin Xinming , Cai Wanzhi , Li Hu
Published: September 2016

Hemiptera make up the largest nonholometabolan insect assemblage. Despite previous efforts to elucidate phylogeny within this group, relationships among the major sub-lineages remain uncertain. In particular, mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) data are still sparse for many important hemipteran insect groups. Recent mitogenomic analyses of Hemiptera have usually included no more than 50 species, with conflicting hypotheses presented. Here, we determined the nearly complete nucleotide sequence of the mitogenome for the aphid species of Rhopalosiphum padi using RNA-seq plus gap filling. The 15,205 bp mitogenome included all mitochondrial genes except for trnF. The mitogenome organization and size for R. padi are similar to previously reported aphid species. In addition, the phylogenetic relationships for Hemiptera were examined using a mitogenomic dataset which included sequences from 103 ingroup species and 19 outgroup species. Our results showed that the seven species representing the Aleyrodidae exhibit extremely long branches, and always cluster with long-branched outgroups. This lead to the failure of recovering a monophyletic Hemiptera in most analyses. The data treatment of Degen-coding for protein-coding genes and the site-heterogeneous CAT model show improved suppression of the long-branch effect. Under these conditions, the Sternorrhyncha was often recovered as the most basal clade in Hemiptera.
Viscoelastic properties and efficient acoustic damping in confined polymer nano-layers at GHz frequencies
Authors: Hettich Mike , Jacob Karl , Ristow Oliver , Schubert Martin , Bruchhausen Axel , Gusev Vitalyi , Dekorsy Thomas
Published: September 2016

We investigate the viscoelastic properties of confined molecular nano-layers by time resolved optical pump-probe measurements. Access to the elastic properties is provided by the damping time of acoustic eigenmodes of thin metal films deposited on the molecular nano-layers which show a strong dependence on the molecular layer thickness and on the acoustic eigen-mode frequencies. An analytical model including the viscoelastic properties of the molecular layer allows us to obtain the longitudinal sound velocity as well as the acoustic absorption coefficient of the layer. Our experiments and theoretical analysis indicate for the first time that the molecular nano-layers are much more viscous than elastic in the investigated frequency range from 50 to 120 GHz and thus show pronounced acoustic absorption. The longitudinal acoustic wavenumber has nearly equal real and imaginary parts, both increasing proportional to the square root of the frequency. Thus, both acoustic velocity and acoustic absorption are proportional to the square root of frequency and the propagation of compressional/dilatational acoustic waves in the investigated nano-layers is of the diffusional type, similar to the propagation of shear waves in viscous liquids and thermal waves in solids.
Developmental Patterns of Cognitive Function and Associated Factors among the Elderly in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Ting-Yu , Chang Hsing-Yi
Published: September 2016

Previous research has discussed the factors associated with cognitive impairment, but the patterns of its development have been little described. Our aim was to examine long-term development of cognitive function and the related factors using longitudinal follow-up data. A group-based trajectory model and multinomial logistic regression were applied to identify trajectories and the associated baseline factors, and a mixed model was used to identify the time-varying factors associated with the trajectories. Three trajectories were identified: starting low and declining (30.8%), starting high and declining (51.8%), and high-stable (17.4%). These three trajectories were apparent at the beginning of the study and did not crossover during the study period. Smoking, diabetes, depression, and instrumental activities of daily living were significant variables for differentiating the starting high and declining group from the high-stable group. Similar patterns and emotional support as a contributing variable were observed in the starting low and declining group. Physical activity, self-rated health, cardiovascular diseases, depression score, physical function, and social support were related to the trajectories over time. Impaired physical function, cardiovascular diseases, depression symptom, and poor social support in late life may be potential risk factors affecting the decline of cognitive function. Preventive strategies should be designed accordingly.
Efficient Radiation by Electrically Small Antennas made of Coupled Split-ring Resonators
Authors: Peng Liang , Chen Peiwei , Wu Aiting , Wang Gaofeng
Published: September 2016

In this paper, coupled split-ring resonators (SRRs) are used to construct the electrically small antennas. We show that through strong magnetic coupling, the coupled SRRs composite can oscillate at a wavelength much larger than its total size. Due to its magnetic dipole feature, the coupled SRRs composite allows the electromagnetic (EM) power to radiate and hence forms the electrically small antenna (ESA). Because of the high-Q resonance, the ESA could be easily matched to the driving circuit in the microwave region, through mutual induction approach. We also demonstrate that the radiation efficiency of such ESAs can be drastically improved if the current distribution on individual SRRs is similar, which is achievable by carefully designing the ESAs. From our simulations and experimental measurements, the ESAs’ radiation efficiency can reach up to 41%, with relative footprint of 0.05λ0 × 0.05λ0. Our approach would be an effective way to realize ESAs with high efficiency, which can be implemented on chip through the standard planar lithography.
Regulation of osteoblast development by Bcl-2-associated athanogene-1 (BAG-1)
Authors: Greenhough Joanna , Papadakis Emmanouil S. , Cutress Ramsey I. , Townsend Paul A. , Oreffo Richard O. C. , Tare Rahul S.
Published: September 2016

BCL-2-associated athanogene-1 (BAG-1) is expressed by osteoblast-lineage cells; early embryonic lethality in Bag-1 null mice, however, has limited the investigation of BAG-1 function in osteoblast development. In the present study, bone morphogenetic protein-2/BMP-2-directed osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) of Bag-1+/− (heterozygous) female mice was decreased significantly. Genes crucial for osteogenic differentiation, bone matrix formation and mineralisation were expressed at significantly lower levels in cultures of Bag-1+/− BMSCs supplemented with BMP-2, while genes with roles in inhibition of BMP-2-directed osteoblastogenesis were significantly upregulated. 17-β-estradiol (E2) enhanced responsiveness of BMSCs of wild-type and Bag-1+/− mice to BMP-2, and promoted robust BMP-2-stimulated osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs. BAG-1 can modulate cellular responses to E2 by regulating the establishment of functional estrogen receptors (ERs), crucially, via its interaction with heat shock proteins (HSC70/HSP70). Inhibition of BAG-1 binding to HSC70 by the small-molecule chemical inhibitor, Thioflavin-S, and a short peptide derived from the C-terminal BAG domain, which mediates binding with the ATPase domain of HSC70, resulted in significant downregulation of E2/ER-facilitated BMP-2-directed osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs. These studies demonstrate for the first time the significance of BAG-1-mediated protein-protein interactions, specifically, BAG-1-regulated activation of ER by HSC70, in modulation of E2-facilitated BMP-2-directed osteoblast development.
Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Assisted in vitro Electroporation: A Pilot Study
Authors: Novickij Vitalij , Grainys Audrius , Lastauskienė Eglė , Kananavičiūtė Rūta , Pamedytytė Dovilė , Kalėdienė Lilija , Novickij Jurij , Miklavčič Damijan
Published: September 2016

Electroporation is a phenomenon occurring due to exposure of cells to Pulsed Electric Fields (PEF) which leads to increase of membrane permeability. Electroporation is used in medicine, biotechnology, and food processing. Recently, as an alternative to electroporation by PEF, Pulsed ElectroMagnetic Fields (PEMF) application causing similar biological effects was suggested. Since induced electric field in PEMF however is 2–3 magnitudes lower than in PEF electroporation, the membrane permeabilization mechanism remains hypothetical. We have designed pilot experiments whereSaccharomyces cerevisiaeandCandida lusitaniaecells were subjected to single 100–250 μs electrical pulse of 800 V with and without concomitant delivery of magnetic pulse (3, 6 and 9 T). As expected, after the PEF pulses only the number of Propidium Iodide (PI) fluorescent cells has increased, indicative of membrane permeabilization. We further show that single sub-millisecond magnetic field pulse did not cause detectable poration of yeast. Concomitant exposure of cells to pulsed electric (PEF) and magnetic field (PMF) however resulted in the increased number PI fluorescent cells and reduced viability. Our results show increased membrane permeability by PEF when combined with magnetic field pulse, which can explain electroporation at considerably lower electric field strengths induced by PEMF compared to classical electroporation.
Reversible Brain Abnormalities in People Without Signs of Mountain Sickness During High-Altitude Exposure
Authors: Fan Cunxiu , Zhao Yuhua , Yu Qian , Yin Wu , Liu Haipeng , Lin Jianzhong , Yang Tianhe , Fan Ming , Gesang Luobu , Zhang Jiaxing
Published: September 2016

A large proportion of lowlanders ascending to high-altitude (HA) show no signs of mountain sickness. Whether their brains have indeed suffered from HA environment and the persistent sequelae after return to lowland remain unknown. Thirty-one sea-level college students, who had a 30-day teaching on Qinghai-Tibet plateau underwent MRI scans before, during and two months after HA exposure. Brain volume, cortical structures and white matter microstructure were measured. Besides, serum neuron-specific enolase (NSE), C-reactive protein and interleukin-6 and neuropsychiatric behaviors were tested. After 30-day HA exposure, the gray and white matter volumes and cortical surface areas significantly increased, with cortical thicknesses and curvatures changed in a wide spread regions; Anisotropy decreased with diffusivities increased in multiple sites of white matter tracts. Two months after HA exposure, cortical measurements returned to basal level. However, increased anisotropy with decreased diffusivities was observed. Behaviors and serum inflammatory factor did not significant changed during three time-point tests. NSE significantly decreased during HA but increased after HA exposure. Results suggest brain swelling occurred in people without neurological signs at HA, but no negative sequelae in cortical structures and neuropsychiatric functions were left after the return to lowlands. Reoxygenation changed white matter microstructure.
Enhanced mechanical performance of biocompatible hemicelluloses-based hydrogel via chain extension
Authors: Qi Xian-Ming , Chen Ge-Gu , Gong Xiao-Dong , Fu Gen-Que , Niu Ya-Shuai , Bian Jing , Peng Feng , Sun Run-Cang
Published: September 2016

Hemicelluloses are widely used to prepare gel materials because of their renewability, biodegradability and biocompatibility. Here, molecular chain extension of hemicelluloses was obtained in a two-step process. Composite hydrogels were prepared via free radical graft copolymerization of crosslinked quaternized hemicelluloses (CQH) and acrylic acid (AA) in the presence of crosslinking agent N,N’-methylenebisacrylamide (MBA). This chain extension strategy significantly improved the mechanical performance of the resulting hydrogels. The crosslinking density, compression modulus and swelling capacities of hydrogels were tuned by changing the AA/CQH and MBA/CQH contents. Moreover, the biocompatibility test suggests that the hemicelluloses-based hydrogels exhibited no toxicity to cells and allowed cell growth. Taken together, these properties demonstrated that the composite hydrogels have potential applications in the fields of water absorbents, cell culture and other functional biomaterials.
Improved Transgenic Mouse Model for Studying HLA Class I Antigen Presentation
Authors: Huang Man , Zhang Wei , Guo Jie , Wei Xundong , Phiwpan Krung , Zhang Jianhua , Zhou Xuyu
Published: September 2016

HLA class I (HLA-I) transgenic mice have proven to be useful models for studying human MHC-related immune responses over the last two decades. However, differences in the processing and presentation machinery between humans and mice may have profound effects on HLA-I restricted antigen presentation. In this study, we generated a novel human TAP-LMP (hTAP-LMP) gene cluster transgenic mouse model carrying an intact human TAP complex and two human immunoproteasome LMP subunits, PSMB8/PSMB9. By crossing the hTAP-LMP strain with different HLA-I transgenic mice, we found that the expression levels of human HLA-I molecules, especially the A3 supertype members (e.g., A11 and A33), were remarkably enhanced in corresponding HLA-I/hTAP-LMP transgenic mice. Moreover, we found that humanized processing and presentation machinery increased antigen presentation of HLA-A11-restricted epitopes and promoted the rapid reduction of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in HLA-A11/hTAP-LMP mice. Together, our study highlights that HLA-I/hTAP-LMP mice are an improved model for studying antigen presentation of HLA-I molecules and their related CTL responses.
Correction: Corrigendum: Predictability of Precipitation Over the Conterminous U.S. Based on the CMIP5 Multi-Model Ensemble
Authors: Jiang Mingkai , Felzer Benjamin S. , Sahagian Dork
Published: September 2016

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 29962; published online: 18 July 2016; updated: 16 September 2016. This Article contains typographical errors in Reference 21. “Ehasani, N., B. M. Fekete, C. J. Vorosmarty & Z. D. Tessler A neural network based general reservoir operation scheme. Stochastic Environmental Research and Risk Assessment 1:16, doi: 10.
TGF-β1 autocrine signalling and enamel matrix components
Authors: Kobayashi-Kinoshita Saeko , Yamakoshi Yasuo , Onuma Kazuo , Yamamoto Ryuji , Asada Yoshinobu
Published: September 2016

Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) is present in porcine enamel extracts and is critical for proper mineralization of tooth enamel. Here, we show that the mRNA of latent TGF-β1 is expressed throughout amelogenesis. Latent TGF-β1 is activated by matrix metalloproteinase 20 (MMP20), coinciding with amelogenin processing by the same proteinase. Activated TGF-β1 binds to the major amelogenin cleavage products, particularly the neutral-soluble P103 amelogenin, to maintain its activity. The P103 amelogenin-TGF-β1 complex binds to TGFBR1 to induce TGF-β1 signalling. The P103 amelogenin-TGF-β1 complex is slowly cleaved by kallikrein 4 (KLK4), which is secreted into the transition- and maturation-stage enamel matrix, thereby reducing TGF-β1 activity. To exert the multiple biological functions of TGF-β1 for amelogenesis, we propose that TGF-β1 is activated or inactivated by MMP20 or KLK4 and that the amelogenin cleavage product is necessary for the in-solution mobility of TGF-β1, which is necessary for binding to its receptor on ameloblasts and retention of its activity.
Long Sleep Duration and Risk of Ischemic Stroke and Hemorrhagic Stroke: the Kailuan Prospective Study
Authors: Song Qiaofeng , Liu Xiaoxue , Zhou Wenhua , Wang Ling , Zheng Xiang , Wang Xizhu , Wu Shouling
Published: September 2016

The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between sleep duration and ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke in a community-based cohort. The current analysis included 95,023 Chinese participants who were free of stroke at the baseline survey (2006–2007). Cox proportional hazards models were used to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) and their confidence intervals (CIs) for stroke, according to sleep duration. After a mean follow-up period of 7.9 years, 3,135 participants developed stroke (2,504 ischemic stroke and 631 hemorrhagic stroke). The full adjusted hazard ratio (95% CI) of total stroke (with 6–8 hours of night sleep being considered for the reference group) for individuals reporting greater than 8 hours was 1.29 (1.01–1.64). More significant association between long sleep duration and total stroke was found in the elderly (HR, 1.47; 95% CI, 1.05–2.07). Compared with participants getting 6–8 hours of sleep, only women who reported sleeping more than 8 hours per night were associated with hemorrhagic stroke (HR, 3.58; 95% CI, 1.28–10.06). This study suggested that long sleep duration might be a potential predictor/ marker for total stroke, especially in the elderly. And long sleep duration increased the risk of hemorrhagic stroke only in women.
Isolation and structural analysis of hemicellulose from corncobs after a delignification pretreatment
Authors: Ma Lijuan , Du Liping , Cui Youzhi , Song Pan , Jiang Fengchao , Ma Qing , Xiao Dongguang
Published: September 2016

Corncobs are rich in hemicellulose, which has very important applications in the food industry and biofuels.
Catalytic CO2-to-CO conversion in water by covalently functionalized carbon nanotubes with a molecular iron catalyst
Authors: Maurin Antoine , Robert Marc
Published: September 2016

The covalent grafting of an Fe porphyrin on carbon nanotubes led to efficient electroreduction of CO2 into CO in water (pH 7.3).
Understanding the surface segregation behavior of transition metals on Ni(111): a first-principles study
Authors: Yu Yanlin , Xiao Wei , Wang Jianwei , Wang Ligen
Published: September 2016

The surface composition of an alloying system has an important impact on its catalytic and chemical properties.
Exploring the mechanism of F282L mutation-caused constitutive activity of GPCR by a computational study
Authors: Gao Nan , Liang Tao , Yuan Yuan , Xiao Xiuchan , Zhao Yihuan , Guo Yanzhi , Li Menglong , Pu Xuemei
Published: September 2016

The effect of F282L mutation on the structure, the structural communication pathways and the selection to ligands were explored by microsecond molecular dynamics simulation for β2 adrenergic receptor.
Fluorescence quantum yield rationalized by the magnitude of the charge transfer in π-conjugated terpyridine derivatives
Authors: Humbert-Droz Marie , Piguet Claude , Wesolowski Tomasz A.
Published: September 2016

Two measures of charge separation in ground and excited states (length of the change in dipole moment and the electron–hole distance) provide a remarkable tool for the molecular design of a fluorescent polyaromatic antenna.
Exploring the substrate specificity and catalytic mechanism of imidazolonepropionase (HutI) from Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Su Hao , Sheng Xiang , Liu Yongjun
Published: September 2016

QM/MM calculations reveal that imidazolonepropionase (HutI) specifically catalyzes the hydrolytic cleavage of (S)-enantiomer of substrate to yieldl-formiminoglutamic acid.
Versatile fabrication of a superhydrophobic and ultralight cellulose-based aerogel for oil spillage clean-up
Authors: Zhang Hui , Li Yuqi , Xu Yaoguang , Lu Zexiang , Chen Lihui , Huang Liulian , Fan Mizi
Published: September 2016

To deal with marine oil spillage and chemical leakage issues, a highly efficient absorbent (cellulose based aerogel) with a low density (ρ < 0.034 g cm−3, φ > 98.5%) and high mechanical strength was fabricated via a novel physical–chemical foaming method, plasma treatment and subsequent silane modification process.
The unfolding effects on the protein hydration shell and partial molar volume: a computational study
Authors: Del Galdo Sara , Amadei Andrea
Published: September 2016

In this paper we apply the computational analysis recently proposed by our group to characterize the solvation properties of a native protein in aqueous solution, and to four model aqueous solutions of globular proteins in their unfolded states thus characterizing the protein unfolded state hydration shell and quantitatively evaluating the protein unfolded state partial molar volumes.
Resonant multiphoton ionisation probe of the photodissociation dynamics of ammonia
Authors: Smith Adam D. , Watts Hannah M. , Jager Edward , Horke Daniel A. , Springate Emma , Alexander Oliver , Cacho Cephise , Chapman Richard T. , Minns Russell S.
Published: September 2016

The dissociation dynamics of the Ã-state of ammonia have been studied using a resonant multiphoton ionisation probe in a photoelectron spectroscopy experiment.
Molecular origin of photoluminescence of carbon dots: aggregation-induced orange-red emission
Authors: Gude Venkatesh , Das Ananya , Chatterjee Tanmay , Mandal Prasun K.
Published: September 2016

The molecular origin of the photoluminescence of carbon dots (CDs) is shown.
Improvement in surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy from cubic SiC semiconductor nanowhiskers by adjustment of energy levels
Authors: Liu Wenna , Yang Tao , Chen Junhong , Chen Yingzhi , Hou Xinmei , Han Xuemei , Chou Kuo-Chih
Published: September 2016

A highly enhanced, reproducible Raman signal of the 4-MBA molecule was observed on the surface of SiCNWs. Improved SERS enhancement was also achieved in these nanowhiskers by adjusting the energy levels.
Water inhibits CO oxidation on gold cations in the gas phase. Structures and binding energies of the sequential addition of CO, H2O, O2, and N2onto Au+
Authors: Reveles J. Ulises , Saoud Khaled M. , El-Shall M. Samy
Published: September 2016

We report a detailed experimental and theoretical study of the gas phase reactivity of Au+with CO, O2, N2and their mixtures in the presence of a trace amount of water impurity.
A theoretical investigation of internal conversion in 1,2-dithiane using non-adiabatic multiconfigurational molecular dynamics
Authors: Rankine C. D. , Nunes J. P. F. , Robinson M. S. , Lane P. D. , Wann D. A.
Published: September 2016

Non-adiabatic multireference molecular dynamics simulations have revealed a motion in 1,2-dithiane that activates on absorption of light in the mid-UV and expedites the S1/S0internal conversion process.
Design, synthesis and DSSC performance of o-fluorine substituted phenylene spacer sensitizers: effect of TiO2thickness variation
Authors: Bhim Raju Telugu , Vaghasiya Jayraj V. , Afroz Mohammad Adil , Soni Saurabh S. , Iyer Parameswar Krishnan
Published: September 2016

The influence ofo-fluorine substituted phenyl π-spacer dyes with varying donors and different TiO2film thickness of 9 and 12 μm show improvedVoc,Jscand PCE measured under one sun.
The effect of imidazole on the enhancement of gadolinium-porphyrin phosphorescence at room temperature
Authors: Zang Lixin , Zhao Huimin , Hua Jianyu , Qin Feng , Zheng Yangdong , Zhang Zhiguo , Cao Wenwu
Published: September 2016

The mechanism for the 40-fold enhancement in Gd-HMME RTP intensity by adding imidazole and Gd3+ is revealed.
Transformation of chlorpyrifos and chlorpyrifos-methyl in prairie pothole pore waters
Authors: Adams Rachel M. , McAdams Brandon C. , Arnold William A. , Chin Yu-Ping
Published: September 2016

Reduced sulfur species and dissolved organic matter content are significant factors in determining the fate of organophosphate pesticides in prairie pothole pore waters.
Source contributions and potential source regions of size-resolved water-soluble organic carbon measured at an urban site over one year
Authors: Yu Geun-Hye , Park Seungshik , Lee Kwon-Ho
Published: September 2016

A year-long measurement of size-resolved WSOC was made at an urban site to elucidate sources of size resolved WSOC. Droplet mode WSOC was primarily the result of atmospheric processing during the long range transport of biogenic and anthropogenic pollutants from the eastern regions of China.
Selection of screw characteristics and operational boundary conditions to facilitate post-flush urine and faeces separation within single household sanitation systems
Authors: Mercer E. , Cruddas P. , Williams L. , Kolios A. , Parker A. , Tyrrel S. , Cartmell E. , Pidou M. , McAdam E. J.
Published: September 2016

This article demonstrates the application of a screw auger to separate fresh urine and faeces in a household scale sanitation system.
Prospects of enhancing dietary zinc bioavailability with food-derived zinc-chelating peptides
Authors: Udechukwu M. Chinonye , Collins Stephanie A. , Udenigwe Chibuike C.
Published: September 2016

Food-derived zinc-chelating peptides have the potential to enhance intestinal absorption, bioavailability and physiological functions of zinc.
Coupled molecular design diagrams to guide safer chemical design with reduced likelihood of perturbing the NRF2-ARE antioxidant pathway and inducing cytotoxicity
Authors: Shen Longzhu Q. , Melnikov Fjodor , Roethle John , Gudibanda Aditya , Judson Richard S. , Zimmerman Julie B. , Anastas Paul T.
Published: September 2016

A probabilistic diagram presenting the complete solution in the variable space to guide safer chemical against NRF2-ARE pathway perturbation.
Study of ion beam induced chemical effects in silicon with a downsized high resolution X-ray spectrometer for use with focused ion beams
Authors: Mihalić I. Božičević , Fazinić S. , Tadić T. , Cosic D. , Jakšić M.
Published: September 2016

A downsized wavelength dispersive X-ray spectrometer, employing a flat crystal and a CCD detector for use with focused ion beams has been constructed and employed to study ion beam induced chemical effects in Si K X-ray spectra from silicon and its selected compounds.
Oxidation and adduct formation of xenobiotics in a microfluidic electrochemical cell with boron doped diamond electrodes and an integrated passive gradient rotation mixer
Authors: van den Brink Floris T. G. , Wigger Tina , Ma Liwei , Odijk Mathieu , Olthuis Wouter , Karst Uwe , van den Berg Albert
Published: September 2016

Reactive xenobiotic metabolites and their adduct formation with biomolecules can be detrimental to human health.