bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Active nuclear import and passive nuclear export are the primary determinants of TDP-43 localization
Authors: Pinarbasi Emile S. , Cağatay Tolga , Fung Ho Yee Joyce , Li Ying C. , Chook Yuh Min , Thomas Philip J.
Published: April 2018

ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by the redistribution of the RNA binding protein TDP-43 in affected neurons: from predominantly nuclear to aggregated in the cytosol. However, the determinants of TDP-43 localization and the cellular insults that promote redistribution are incompletely understood. Here, we show that the putative Nuclear Export Signal (NES) is not required for nuclear egress of TDP-43. Moreover, when the TDP-43 domain which contains the putative NES is fused to a reporter protein, YFP, the presence of the NES is not sufficient to mediate nuclear exclusion of the fusion protein. We find that the previously studied “∆NES” mutant, in which conserved hydrophobic residues are mutated to alanines, disrupts both solubility and splicing function. We further show that nuclear export of TDP-43 is independent of the exportin XPO1. Finally, we provide evidence that nuclear egress of TDP-43 is size dependent; nuclear export of dTomato TDP-43 is significantly impaired compared to Flag TDP-43. Together, these results suggest nuclear export of TDP-43 is predominantly driven by passive diffusion.
Major ocular trauma in Taiwan: 2002–2004 versus 2012–2014
Authors: Chang Yi-Sheng , Teng Yu-Ti , Huang Yi-Hsun , Liu Mei-Ling , Hung Jia-Horung , Hsu Sheng-Min , Huang Fu-Chin , Shih Min-Hsiu , Chen Wan-Ju , Lai Chun-Chieh , Hsiao Shu-Fang , Wang Shih-Hao , Tseng Sung-Huei
Published: April 2018

We investigated the temporal changes in major eye injuries in Taiwan by reviewing the medical records of all patients with ocular trauma hospitalized at the National Cheng Kung University Hospital during 2002–2004 and 2012–2014. A total of 169 eyes (161 patients) during 2002–2004 and 121 eyes (120 patients) during 2012–2014 were enrolled (mean ± SD age: 41.9 ± 20.8 years in 2002–2004, and 51.8 ± 19.3 years in 2012–2014). Males accounted for ~75% of patients. The most frequent injury-causing object was metallic material (~24%), and blunt traumas were most frequently attributable to traffic accidents and falls. The most common locations of injuries for males and females were the workplace and home, respectively. Open-globe injuries occurred in ~70% of eyes, requiring primary repair, cataract extraction, and/or intraocular lens implantation. The frequencies of fall injury, lacrimal system laceration, lens injury, corneal/scleral foreign bodies, and use of intracameral antibiotics increased from 2002–2004 to 2012–2014, while those of closed-globe injury, vitreous haemorrhage, optic nerve injury, and medical treatment decreased. The final visual acuity remained poor (≤20/200) in >1/3 of injured eyes. Despite therapeutic advancements, major eye injuries still pose a high risk for poor visual outcome.
Perception of partial slips under tangential loading of the fingertip
Authors: Barrea Allan , Delhaye Benoit P. , Lefèvre Philippe , Thonnard Jean-Louis
Published: April 2018

During tactile exploration, partial slips occur systematically at the periphery of fingertip-object contact prior to full slip. Although the mechanics of partial slips are well characterized, the perception of such events is unclear. Here, we performed psychophysical experiments to assess partial slip detection ability on smooth transparent surfaces. In these experiments, the index fingertip of human subjects was stroked passively by a smooth, transparent glass plate while we imaged the contact slipping against the glass. We found that subjects were able to detect fingertip slip before full slip occurred when, on average, only 48% of the contact area was slipping. Additionally, we showed that partial slips and plate displacement permitted slip detection, but that the subjects could not rely on tangential force to detect slipping of the plate. Finally, we observed that, keeping the normal contact force constant, slip detection was impeded when the plate was covered with a hydrophobic coating dramatically lowering the contact friction and therefore the amount of fingertip deformation. Together, these results demonstrate that partial slips play an important role in fingertip slip detection and support the hypothesis that the central nervous system relies on them to adjust grip force during object manipulation.
Identification of miRNAs in cervical mucus as a novel diagnostic marker for cervical neoplasia
Authors: Kawai Satoshi , Fujii Takuma , Kukimoto Iwao , Yamada Hiroya , Yamamoto Naoki , Kuroda Makoto , Otani Sayaka , Ichikawa Ryoko , Nishio Eiji , Torii Yutaka , Iwata Aya
Published: April 2018

microRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in regulation of gene expression during cervical carcinogenesis. We investigated expression profiles of miRNAs in cervical cancer and its precursor lesions by utilizing cervical mucus. Cervical mucus was collected from 230 patients with a normal cervix, cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), or adenocarcinoma (AD). The levels of miRNA in the mucus were quantified by miRNA array and real-time reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The performance for detecting diseases was statistically analysed. The expression of miRNAs was further validated in the surgical tissues of enrolled patients. Four miRNAs (miR-126-3p, -20b-5p, -451a, and -144-3p) were significantly up-regulated in SCC and AD compared with normal, and their expression levels correlated with disease severity and high-risk human papillomavirus infection. Receiver operating characteristic curve analyses revealed that the area under the curve values for miR-126-3p, -20b-5p, -451a, and -144-3p were 0.89, 0.90, 0.94, and 0.93, respectively, for SCC plus AD compared with normal, showing high accuracy of cancer detection. Real-time RT-PCR analyses confirmed the expression of these four miRNAs in frozen tissues from cervical cancer. miR-126-3p, -20b-5p, -451a, and -144-3p in cervical mucus are promising biomarkers for cervical cancer and high-grade CINs.
Quantification and localization of oncogenic receptor tyrosine kinase variant transcripts using molecular inversion probes
Authors: van den Heuvel Corina N. A. M. , Das Arvid I. , de Bitter Tessa , Simmer Femke , Wurdinger Thomas , Molina-Vila Miguel Angel , Leenders William P. J.
Published: April 2018

Oncogenic membrane receptor tyrosine kinases such as MET and EGFR, or auto-active variants thereof, are important targets for cancer precision therapy. Targeted inhibition of these oncogenic receptors however invariably leads to resistance, resulting from acquisition of resistance-inducing mutations or from selective outgrowth of a priori resistant tumour cells. Most applied molecular protocols cannot distinguish between intracellular and intercellular heterogeneity of oncogene (variant) expression, which may lead to misinterpretation of the molecular make-up of a cancer and suboptimal application of targeted therapies. We here combined two related techniques to allow semiquantitative and localized in situ detection of specific transcript splice variants using single molecule molecular inversion probe (smMIP)-based next generation sequencing and padlock probe-based rolling circle amplification, respectively. We show highly specific padlock probe-based multiplex detection of MET, METΔ7-8 and METΔ14 transcripts, lacking exons 7–8 and exon 14 respectively, and of EGFR and the auto-active EGFRvIII, lacking exons 2–7. The combination of quantitative transcript variant detection with smMIPs and transcript localization using padlock probes can be used for detection of oncogenic transcripts on the single-cell level, allowing study of tumour heterogeneity. Visualization of tumour heterogeneity can shed light on the biology underlying drug resistance and potentially improve targeted therapeutics.
Near-Infrared Fluorescence Imaging Directly Visualizes Lymphatic Drainage Pathways and Connections between Superficial and Deep Lymphatic Systems in the Mouse Hindlimb
Authors: Nakajima Yukari , Asano Kimi , Mukai Kanae , Urai Tamae , Okuwa Mayumi , Sugama Junko , Nakatani Toshio
Published: April 2018

Since lymphedema rarely develops in the mouse hindlimb, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. We herein investigated the resolution of chronic hindlimb lymphedema in mice using a Near-Infrared Fluorescence (NIRF) imaging system. Nineteen 7–28-week-old BALB/c male and female mice were injected with two dyes for lymphography and dissection. Lymphadenectomy was performed on six male mice to completely obstruct lymph flow in the hindlimb. Edematous changes in both hindlimbs were compared until 60 days after surgery. The NIRF imaging system detected three lymphatic collecting systems in the mouse hindlimb: superficial lateral, superficial medial, and deep medial. It also showed connections between the superficial and deep lymphatic systems in the inguinal region. Lymphadenectomy of the iliac, inguinal, and popliteal lymph nodes caused edematous changes. However, lymph flow in these operated areas restarted within 60 days and the severity of lymphedema appeared to be low. NIRF imaging showed that the deep medial system and a connection between the superficial and deep lymphatic systems in the inguinal region drain lymph from the hindlimb. This is the one reasons why lymphedema does not develop in the mouse hindlimb. The stable obstruction of lymph flow in these three systems is desired to develop chronic lymphedema.
Identification of brain antigens recognized by autoantibodies in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis-induced animals treated with etomoxir or interferon-β
Authors: Mørkholt Anne Skøttrup , Kastaniegaard Kenneth , Trabjerg Michael Sloth , Gopalasingam Gopana , Niganze Wanda , Larsen Agnete , Stensballe Allan , Nielsen Søren , Nieland John Dirk
Published: April 2018

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurodegenerative autoimmune disease, where chronic inflammation plays an essential role in its pathology. A feature of MS is the production of autoantibodies stimulated by an altered-peptide-ligand response and epitope spreading, resulting in loss of tolerance for self-proteins. The involvement of autoantibodies in MS pathogenesis has been suggested to initiate and drive progression of inflammation; however, the etiology of MS remains unknown. The effect of etomoxir and interferon-β (IFN-β) was examined in an experimental-autoimmune-encephalomyelitis (EAE) model of MS. Moreover, the impact of etomoxir and IFN-β on recognition of brain proteins in serum from EAE rats was examined with the purpose of identifying the autoantibody reactivities involved in MS. Animals treated with etomoxir on day 1 exhibited a statistically significantly lower disease score than animals treated with IFN-β (on day 1 or 5) or placebo. Etomoxir treatment on day 5 resulted in a significantly lower disease score than IFN-β treatment on day 1. After disease induction antibodies was induced to a broad pallet of antigens in the brain. Surprisingly, by blocking CPT1 and therewith lipid metabolism several alterations in the antibody response was observed suggesting that autoantibodies play a role in the EAE animal model.
Comparison of the safety and efficacy of triple sequential therapy and transscleral cyclophotocoagulation for neovascular glaucoma in the angle-closure stage
Authors: Hong Ying , Hu Yuntao , Dou Hongliang , Wang Changguan , Zhang Chun , Ma Zhizhong
Published: April 2018

To compare the efficacy and safety of triple therapy combining intravitreal injection of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor, trabeculectomy, and pan-retinal photocoagulation via binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy, with that of transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (TCP) to treat neovascular glaucoma in the angle-closure stage. Eighteen triple therapy patients and 25 TCP patients between May 2014 and May 2016 were retrospectively analysed. Anterior chamber puncture and anti-VEGF intravitreal injection were performed on the first day of sequential therapy. Trabeculectomy was performed 3–5 d after injection; pan-retinal laser photocoagulation via binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy was initiated 5–7 d later. The IOP of the triple therapy group was lower than that of the TCP group (15.2 ± 2.2 vs. 20.0 ± 8.5 mmHg) and fewer anti-glaucoma drugs were used (0.5 ± 1.0 vs. 0.6 ± 1.0) after treatment. The success rates of the two groups were 89% and 60% respectively (P = 0.032). The visual function of 94% of triple therapy patients was preserved or improved compared to 64% of TCP patients with statistical significance (P = 0.028). No patient in the triple therapy group showed hypotony or eyeball atrophy. Compared to TCP, triple therapy shows higher success rate, fewer complications, and attributes to visual function preservation.
The orphan germinant receptor protein GerXAO (but not GerX3b) is essential for L-alanine induced germination in Clostridium botulinum Group II
Authors: Brunt Jason , Carter Andrew T. , Pye Hannah V. , Peck Michael W.
Published: April 2018

Clostridium botulinum is an anaerobic spore forming bacterium that produces the potent botulinum neurotoxin that causes a severe and fatal neuro-paralytic disease of humans and animals (botulism). C. botulinum Group II is a psychrotrophic saccharolytic bacterium that forms spores of moderate heat resistance and is a particular hazard in minimally heated chilled foods. Spore germination is a fundamental process that allows the spore to transition to a vegetative cell and typically involves a germinant receptor (GR) that responds to environmental signals. Analysis of C. botulinum Group II genomes shows they contain a single GR cluster (gerX3b), and an additional single gerA subunit (gerXAO). Spores of C. botulinum Group II strain Eklund 17B germinated in response to the addition of L-alanine, but did not germinate following the addition of exogenous Ca2+-DPA. Insertional inactivation experiments in this strain unexpectedly revealed that the orphan GR GerXAO is essential for L-alanine stimulated germination. GerX3bA and GerX3bC affected the germination rate but were unable to induce germination in the absence of GerXAO. No role could be identified for GerX3bB. This is the first study to identify the functional germination receptor of C. botulinum Group II.
Time-lapse 3D imaging by positron emission tomography of Cu mobilized in a soil column by the herbicide MCPA
Authors: Kulenkampff Johannes , Stoll Madeleine , Gründig Marion , Mansel Alexander , Lippmann-Pipke Johanna , Kersten Michael
Published: April 2018

Phenoxyalkanoic acids like the 4-chloro-2-methylphenoxyacetic acid (MCPA) are the second highest used xenobiotic herbicides worldwide after glyphosate because of their apparently favorable environmental properties. Experimental batch equilibration data suggested a reduced Cu adsorption efficiency with the soil mineral goethite below pH 6 in presence of MCPA. This has been verified by advanced surface complexation adsorption modelling involving dissolved Cu-MCPA complexation constants. Positron emission tomography is a non-invasive molecular imaging method for time-resolved three-dimensional information commonly applied on non-retarded tracers in soil core scale experiments. Mineral surface reactive tracers like Cu-64 are too immobile for the relatively short observation times available with this advanced imaging technique. However, Cu-64 radiolabeled Cu-MCPA complex migration could be observed in as long as 10-cm artificial soil test columns where break-through occurred within a few days. For the first time, time-lapse movies of Cu migration in the opaque soil columns were recorded using this novel reactive transport process tomography approach.
Chemical shift extremum of 129Xe(aq) reveals details of hydrophobic solvation
Authors: Peuravaara Petri , Karjalainen Jouni , Zhu Jianfeng , Mareš Jiří , Lantto Perttu , Vaara Juha
Published: April 2018

The 129Xe chemical shift in an aqueous solution exhibits a non-monotonic temperature dependence, featuring a maximum at 311 K. This is in contrast to most liquids, where the monotonic decrease of the shift follows that of liquid density. In particular, the shift maximum in water occurs at a higher temperature than that of the maximum density. We replicate this behaviour qualitatively via a molecular dynamics simulation and computing the 129Xe chemical shift for snapshots of the simulation trajectory. We also construct a semianalytical model, in which the Xe atom occupies a cavity constituted by a spherical water shell, consisting of an even distribution of solvent molecules. The temperature dependence of the shift is seen to result from a product of the decreasing local water density and an increasing term corresponding to the energetics of the Xe-H2O collisions. The latter moves the chemical shift maximum up in temperature, as compared to the density maximum. In water, the computed temperature of the shift maximum is found to be sensitive to both the details of the binary chemical shift function and the coordination number. This work suggests that, material parameters allowing, the maximum should be exhibited by other liquids, too.
Author Correction: Sulfate Reduction in Sediments Produces High Levels of Chromophoric Dissolved Organic Matter
Authors: Luek Jenna L. , Thompson Kaitlyn E. , Larsen Randolph K. , Heyes Andrew , Gonsior Michael
Published: April 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has not been fixed in the paper.
LncRNA OIP5-AS1 is overexpressed in undifferentiated oral tumors and integrated analysis identifies as a downstream effector of stemness-associated transcription factors
Authors: Arunkumar Ganesan , Anand Shankar , Raksha Partha , Dhamodharan Shankar , Prasanna Srinivasa Rao Harikrishnan , Subbiah Shanmugam , Murugan Avaniyapuram Kannan , Munirajan Arasambattu Kannan
Published: April 2018

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play an important role in the regulation of key cellular processes in early development and cancer. LncRNA Oip5-as1 facilitates stem cell self-renewal in mouse by sponging mmu-miR-7 and modulating NANOG level, yet its role in cancer is less understood. We analyzed OIP5-AS1 expression in oral tumors and in TCGA datasets. We observed overexpression of OIP5-AS1 in oral tumors (P < 0.001) and in tumors of epithelial origin from TCGA. OIP5-AS1 expression was strongly associated with undifferentiated tumors (P = 0.0038). In silico analysis showed miR-7 binding site is conserved in mouse and human OIP5-AS1. However, human NANOG 3′-UTR lost the binding site for hsa-miR-7a-3. Therefore, we screened for other miRNAs that can be sponged by OIP5-AS1 and identified six potential miRNAs and their downstream target genes. Expression analysis showed downregulation of miRNAs and upregulation of downstream target genes, particularly in undifferentiated tumors with high-level of OIP5-AS1 suggesting OIP5-AS1 could post-transcriptionally modulate the downstream target genes. Further, systematic epigenomic analysis of OIP5-AS1 promoter revealed binding motifs for MYC, NANOG and KLF4 suggesting that OIP5-AS1 could be transactivated by stemness-associated transcription factors in cancer. OIP5-AS1 overexpression in undifferentiated oral tumors may be suggestive of enhanced cancer stemness, and consequently, poor clinical outcome.
QM/MM free energy Simulations of an efficient Gluten Hydrolase (Kuma030) Implicate for a Reactant-State Based Protein-Design Strategy for General Acid/Base Catalysis
Authors: Wang Xia , Li Ruirui , Cui Wenchao , Li Qiang , Yao Jianzhuang
Published: April 2018

It is a grand attraction for contemporary biochemists to computationally design enzymes for novel chemical transformation or improved catalytic efficiency. Rosetta by Bakeret al. is no doubt the leading software in the protein design society. Generally, optimization of the transition state (TS) is part of the Rosetta’s protocol to enhance the catalytic efficiency of target enzymes, since TS stabilization is the determining factor for catalytic efficiency based on the TS theory (TST). However, it is confusing that optimization of the reactant state (RS) also results in significant improvement of catalytic efficiency in some cases, such as design of gluten hydrolase (Kuma030). Therefore, it is interesting to uncover underlying reason why a better binding in the RS leading to an increasedkcat. In this study, the combined quantum mechanical/molecular mechanical (QM/MM) molecular dynamics (MD) and free energy (PMF) simulations, pKacalculation, and the statistical analysis such as the ANOVA test were carried out to shed light on the interesting but elusive question. By integration of our computational results and general acid/base theory, we answered the question why optimization of RS stabilization leads to a better TS stabilization in the general acid/base catalysis. In addition, a new and simplified protein-design strategy is proposed for the general acid/base catalysis. The idea, that application of traditional well-defined enzyme mechanism to protein design strategy, would be a great help for methodology development of protein design.
Association between amniotic fluid evaluation and fetal biometry: a prospective French “Flash” study
Authors: Fuchs Florent , Aouinti Safa , Souaied Manel , Keller Valentin , Picot Marie-Christine , Fries Nicolas , Ayoubi Jean-Marc , Picone Olivier
Published: April 2018

We aimed to study the association between three different methods of assessing the amount of amniotic fluid (subjective method (SM), deepest vertical pocket (DVP) and amniotic fluid index (AFI)) and estimated fetal weight (EFW) (in percentile or Z-score) after adjustment on maternal-fetal parameters. We performed a nationwide cross-sectional study through the French network of obstetric sonographers using the “flash” study method and including low-risk singleton pregnancies from 18–40 weeks. Crude and adjusted odds ratio were computed after stratification upon 2nd and 3rd trimester of pregnancy. 1667 ultrasound scans performed by 65 operators were included. Only Z-score of EFW was significantly associated with SM in both trimesters. For DVP and AFI, Z-score of EFW and male fetal gender was significantly associated with them in 2nd trimester. In the 3rd trimester, both Z-score of EFW and large (LGA) or small for gestational age (SGA) fetus were significantly associated with AFI. and DVP. Overweight woman and class I obesity women were also significantly associated with DVP modification. In conclusion, all three methods of amniotic fluid evaluation are significantly associated to estimated fetal weight. DVP and AFI appeared equivalent except that maternal-fetal factors seemed to have a higher impact in DVP than AFI.
Magnetic Induction Spectroscopy for Permeability Imaging
Authors: Ma Lu , Soleimani Manuchehr
Published: April 2018

The structural health monitoring of ferromagnetic materials is essential for controlling product quality. This paper presents the first known characterisation, utilising magnetic induction spectroscopy, of the magnetic permeability of ferromagnetic materials, a property that can facilitate such monitoring. Magnetic induction coils are interrogated by a sweep of excitation frequencies in the range of 1–100 kHz, with amplitudes of induced voltages collected from both non-magnetic and ferromagnetic specimens, and their associated spectral permeability imaged. The reconstructed images show that magnetic permeability can be reconstructed using frequency difference imaging in the investigated frequency range. As such, the relative magnetic permeability of a ferromagnetic specimen can be reconstructed without needing a time difference measurement. This provides a robust imaging approach for the material characterisation of ferromagnetic specimens.
Understanding the ontogeny and succession of Bacillus velezensis and B. subtilis subsp. subtilis by focusing on kimchi fermentation
Authors: Cho Min Seok , Jin Yong Ju , Kang Bo Kyoung , Park Yu Kyoung , Kim ChangKug , Park Dong Suk
Published: April 2018

Bacillus subtilis and B. velezensis are frequently isolated from various niches, including fermented foods, water, and soil. Within the Bacillus subtilis group, B. velezensis and B. subtilis subsp. subtilis have received significant attention as biological resources for biotechnology-associated industries. Nevertheless, radical solutions are urgently needed to identify microbes during their ecological succession to accurately confirm their action at the species or subspecies level in diverse environments, such as fermented materials. Thus, in this study, previously published genome data of the B. subtilis group were compared to exploit species- or subspecies-specific genes for use as improved qPCR targets to detect B. velezensis and B. subtilis subsp. subtilis in kimchi samples. In silico analyses of the selected genes and designed primer sequences, in conjunction with SYBR Green real-time PCR, confirmed the robustness of this newly developed assay. Consequently, this study will allow for new insights into the ontogeny and succession of B. velezensis and B. subtilis subsp. subtilis in various niches. Interestingly, in white kimchi without red pepper powder, neither B. subtilis subsp. subtilis nor B. velezensis was detected.
In vitro acellular dissolution of mineral fibres: A comparative study
Authors: Gualtieri Alessandro F. , Pollastri Simone , Bursi Gandolfi Nicola , Gualtieri Magdalena Lassinantti
Published: April 2018

The study of the mechanisms by which mineral fibres promote adverse effects in both animals and humans is a hot topic of multidisciplinary research with many aspects that still need to be elucidated. Besides length and diameter, a key parameter that determines the toxicity/pathogenicity of a fibre is biopersistence, one component of which is biodurability. In this paper, biodurability of mineral fibres of social and economic importance (chrysotile, amphibole asbestos and fibrous erionite) has been determined for the first time in a systematic comparative way from in vitro acellular dissolution experiments. Dissolution was possible using the Gamble solution as simulated lung fluid (pH = 4 and at body temperature) so to reproduce the macrophage phagolysosome environment. The investigated mineral fibres display very different dissolution rates. For a 0.25 μm thick fibre, the calculated dissolution time of chrysotile is in the range 94–177 days, very short if compared to that of amphibole fibres (49–245 years), and fibrous erionite (181 years). Diffraction and SEM data on the dissolution products evidence that chrysotile rapidly undergoes amorphization with the formation of a nanophasic silica-rich fibrous metastable pseudomorph as first dissolution step whereas amphibole asbestos and fibrous erionite show minor signs of dissolution even after 9–12 months.
The positive effect of chick embryo and nutrient mixture on bone marrow- derived mesenchymal stem cells from aging rats
Authors: Ma Jia , Guo Yanru , Hu Jialei , Pan Yue , Qi Xia , Wang Huaxin , Jia Li
Published: April 2018

The aging of many mammalian tissues is associated with loss of functional adult stem cells, especially bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). This study was aimed to analyze the biological effect of chick embryo (CE) and nutrient mixture (NM) on the BMSCs of aging rats. The aging rat model was established to be induced by D-galactose (500 mg/kg/d) for 90 days. Meanwhile, aging rats were fed with CE and NM in different dose manner by intragastric administration. At the end of the experimental period, serum was collected from rats and used for BMSCs culture. Flow cytometric analysis was used to investigate the BMSCs surface markers. Alizarin Red and oil red O staining were performed to evaluate the multi-lineage differentiation of BMSCs. The results showed that CE plus NM increased the telomere length of BMSCs and promoted BMSCs proliferation. Moreover, CE plus NM administration promoted BMSCs differentiation into osteoblasts and suppressed differentiation into adipocytes. High-throughput sequencing analysis revealed that there were 326 genes were up-regulated and 59 genes were down-regulated in BMSCs of aging rats treated with CE plus NM. In conclusion, CE plus NM supplement had potential to delay aging through the recovery of BMSCs senescence and could be used as a safe effective approach for nutritional therapy of anti-aging.
In situ microscopy across scales for the characterization of crystal growth mechanisms: the case of europium oxalate
Authors: Soltis Jennifer A. , Isley William C. , Conroy Michele , Kathmann Shawn M. , Buck Edgar C. , Lumetta Gregg J.
Published: April 2018

The development of targeted syntheses requires a better understanding of how production pathways affect the final product, but many ex situ techniques used for studying nanoparticle growth are unsuitable as standalone methods for identifying and characterizing growth mechanisms.
An efficient green phosphor of Ce3+ and Tb3+-codoped Ba2Lu5B5O17 and a model for elucidating the high thermal stability of the green emission
Authors: Xiao Yu , Hao Zhendong , Zhang Liangliang , Zhang Xia , Pan Guo-Hui , Wu Hao , Wu Huajun , Luo Yongshi , Zhang Jiahua
Published: April 2018

Green phosphors codoped with Ce3+ and Tb3+ have been studied extensively for application in UV-based white LEDs, but only few of them show both high luminescence efficiency and thermal stability.
Polydopamine nanotube mediated fluorescent biosensor for Hg(ii) determination through exonuclease III-assisted signal amplification
Authors: A Ravikumar , P Panneerselvam
Published: April 2018

We describe a highly sensitive fluorescence biosensor incorporating polydopamine nanotubes (PDNTs) based on the mechanism of exonuclease III (Exo III) assisted signal amplification for the determination of Hg2+ in aqueous solution.
Surface Zn doped LiMn2O4 for an improved high temperature performance
Authors: Piao Jun-Yu , Duan Shu-Yi , Lin Xi-Jie , Tao Xian-Sen , Xu Yan-Song , Cao An-Min , Wan Li-Jun
Published: April 2018

A surface doping strategy is demonstrated for the stabilization of LiMn2O4, which shows a much improved high temperature performance.
Artificial photosynthesis by light absorption, charge separation, and multielectron catalysis
Authors: Đokić Miloš , Soo Han Sen
Published: April 2018

We highlight recent novel approaches in the field of artificial photosynthesis. We emphasize the potential of a highly modular plug-and-play concept that we hope will persuade the community to explore a more inclusive variety of multielectron redox catalysis to complement the proton reduction and water oxidation half-reactions in traditional solar water splitting systems.
hIAPP forms toxic oligomers in plasma
Authors: Rodriguez Camargo Diana C. , Garg Divita , Buday Katalin , Franko Andras , Rodriguez Camargo Andres , Schmidt Fabian , Cox Sarah J. , Suladze Saba , Haslbeck Martin , Mideksa Yonatan G. , Gemmecker Gerd , Aichler Michaela , Mettenleiter Gabriele , Schulz Michael , Walch Axel Karl , Hrabě de Angelis Martin , Feige Matthias J. , Sierra Cesar A. , Conrad Marcus , Tripsianes Konstantinos , Ramamoorthy Ayyalusamy , Reif Bernd
Published: April 2018

Glucose and lipid containing particles such as LDL interact with hIAPP, resulting in the formation of hIAPP oligomeric structures that yield an intrinsic fluorescence and toxicity in cellular assays.
Magnetic and optical property studies on cubic Gd3Fe5−xCoxO12 nanogarnets for spintronics
Authors: Ilanchezhiyan P. , Mohan Kumar G. , Siva C. , Madhan Kumar A. , Yuldashev Shavkat U. , Kwon Y. H. , Kang T. W.
Published: April 2018

Gadolinium-based rare earth garnets were processed in the form of nanostructures and studied for their optical and magnetic properties at room-temperature.
Thermodynamically accessible titanium clusters TiN, N = 2–32
Authors: Lazauskas Tomas , Sokol Alexey A. , Buckeridge John , Catlow C. Richard A. , Escher Susanne G. E. T. , Farrow Matthew R. , Mora-Fonz David , Blum Volker W. , Phaahla Tshegofatso M. , Chauke Hasani R. , Ngoepe Phuti E. , Woodley Scott M.
Published: April 2018

We have performed a genetic algorithm search on the tight-binding interatomic potential energy surface (PES) for small TiN (N = 2–32) clusters.
Theoretical insights into the reactivity of Fe-based catalysts for water oxidation: the role of electron-withdrawing groups
Authors: Xu Penglin , Hu Shaojin , Zhang Hou-Dao , Zheng Xiao
Published: April 2018

The relative catalytic efficiency of a series of Fe-based water oxidation catalysts is elucidated by comprehensive calculations using density functional theory methods.
Tuning the adsorption and interaction of CO and O2 on graphene-like BC3-supported non-noble metal atoms
Authors: Tang Yanan , Chai Huadou , Zhang Hongwei , Chen Weiguang , Zhang Wuqin , Dai Xianqi
Published: April 2018

Research into suitable substrate-supported single-atom catalysts has become a major challenge for electrochemical sensors and energy devices.
A quantitative methodology for the study of particle–electrode impacts
Authors: Little Christopher A. , Xie Ruochen , Batchelor-McAuley Christopher , Kätelhön Enno , Li Xiuting , Young Neil P. , Compton Richard G.
Published: April 2018

Nanoparticle size, diffusion coefficient and the filtering frequency following acquisition are significant in accurate analysis of nanoparticle–electrode impact studies.
Spatiotemporal dynamics of minimal bromate oscillators in an open one-side-fed reactor
Authors: Molnár István , Kurin-Csörgei Krisztina , Szalai István
Published: April 2018

Numerical and experimental evidence of the existence of reaction–diffusion waves in the ferroin-catalyzed minimal bromate oscillator are presented.
Fermi resonance in solvated H3O+: a counter-intuitive trend confirmed via a joint experimental and theoretical investigation
Authors: Huang Qian-Rui , Nishigori Tomoki , Katada Marusu , Fujii Asuka , Kuo Jer-Lai
Published: April 2018

In this work, we combine both experimental and theoretical approaches to jointly investigate Ne-tagged and Ar-tagged H3O+ (with n = 1, 2, and 3) to gain a better understanding of the Fermi resonance in solvated H3O+.
A new series of Co, Ni, Zn, and Cd metal–organic architectures driven by an unsymmetrical biphenyl-tricarboxylic acid: hydrothermal assembly, structural features and properties
Authors: Gu Jin-Zhong , Cai Yan , Qian Zi-Yue , Wen Min , Shi Zi-Fa , Lv Dong-Yu , Kirillov Alexander M.
Published: April 2018

Twelve new Zn(ii), Ni(ii), Co(ii), and Cd(ii) coordination compounds with diverse dimensionalities were assembled using 3′-nitro-biphenyl-2,4,4′-tricarboxylic acid as a main building block.
Roll-to-roll fabrication of integrated PDMS–paper microfluidics for nucleic acid amplification
Authors: Hiltunen Jussi , Liedert Christina , Hiltunen Marianne , Huttunen Olli-Heikki , Hiitola-Keinänen Johanna , Aikio Sanna , Harjanne Mikko , Kurkinen Marika , Hakalahti Leena , Lee Luke P.
Published: April 2018

High-volume roll-to-roll manufacturing of PDMS–paper microfluidics.
Correction: Synthesis of flexible nanotweezers with various metals and their application in carbon nanotube extraction
Authors: Miyake Yuya , López-Moreno Alejandro , Yang Jian , Xu Hai-Jun , Desbois Nicolas , Gros Claude P. , Komatsu Naoki
Published: April 2018

Correction for ‘Synthesis of flexible nanotweezers with various metals and their application in carbon nanotube extraction’ by Yuya Miyake et al., New J. Chem., 2018, DOI: 10.1039/c8nj00147b.
Luminescence and thermal behaviors of free and trapped excitons in cesium lead halide perovskite nanosheets
Authors: Lao Xiangzhou , Yang Zhi , Su Zhicheng , Wang Zilan , Ye Honggang , Wang Minqiang , Yao Xi , Xu Shijie
Published: April 2018

Luminescence in CsPbBr3nanosheets is revealed to stem from the radiative recombination of free and trapped excitons. The thermal behaviors of luminescence have been studied.
Uniform Li deposition regulated via three-dimensional polyvinyl alcohol nanofiber networks for effective Li metal anodes
Authors: Wang Gang , Xiong Xunhui , Lin Zhihua , Zheng Jie , Fenghua Zheng , Li Youpeng , Liu Yanzhen , Yang Chenghao , Tang Yiwei , Liu Meilin
Published: April 2018

Three-dimensional polyvinyl alcohol nanofiber networks uniformly regulate Li deposition for the fabrication of effective Li metal anodes.
pH-Responsive diblock copolymers with two different fluorescent labels for simultaneous monitoring of micellar self-assembly and degree of protonation
Authors: Madsen Jeppe , Madden George , Themistou Efrosyni , Warren Nicholas J. , Armes Steven P.
Published: April 2018

Facile labelling of both blocks of a pH-responsive diblock copolymer with different fluorophores allows monitoring of polymer aggregation and deprotonation.
Dietary nucleotides supplementation during the suckling period improves the antioxidative ability of neonates with intrauterine growth retardation when using a pig model
Authors: Hu Liang , Peng Xie , Qin Linlin , Wang Ru , Fang Zhengfeng , Lin Yan , Xu Shengyu , Feng Bin , Wu De , Che Lianqiang
Published: April 2018

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of dietary nucleotides supplementation on the antioxidant status of piglets affected by intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR).
Polydopamine-coated graphene nanosheets as efficient electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Wang Dan-Dan , Gao Xiuli , Zhao Lianming , Zhou Jin , Zhuo Shuping , Yan Zifeng , Xing Wei
Published: April 2018

Polydopamine-coated graphene nanosheets show excellent electrocatalytic activity towards oxygen reduction reaction.
Characterization of peptides self-assembly by low frequency Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Ronen Maria , Kalanoor Basanth S. , Oren Ziv , Ron Izhar , Tischler Yaakov R. , Gerber Doron
Published: April 2018

Characterization of structural changes in peptide assemblies by low frequency Raman spectroscopy.
Rapid and label-free fluorescence bioassay for microRNA based on exonuclease III-assisted cycle amplification
Authors: Liu Ming Xiu , Liang Shuping , Tang Yafang , Tian Jianniao , Zhao YanChun , Zhao Shulin
Published: April 2018

A new assay for the rapid and simple detection of microRNA based on G-quadruplex and Exonuclease III (ExoIII) dual signal amplification was constructed.
High performance planar p-i-n perovskite solar cells based on a thin Alq3 cathode buffer layer
Authors: Chen Lijia , Wang Gang , Niu Lianbin , Yao Yanqing , Guan Yunxia , Cui Yuting , Song Qunliang
Published: April 2018

Alq3 can shift the band bending to the cathode contact in the PCBM layer which is beneficial to electron transportation.
Se@SiO2 nanocomposites suppress microglia-mediated reactive oxygen species during spinal cord injury in rats
Authors: Wang Weiheng , Huang Xiaodong , Zhang Yongxing , Deng Guoying , Liu Xijian , Fan Chunquan , Xi Yanhai , Yu Jiangming , Ye Xiaojian
Published: April 2018

Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element with strong antioxidant activity, showing a great prospect in the treatment of spinal cord injury (SCI).
A simple non-extractive green method for the spectrophotometric sequential injection determination of copper(ii) with novel thiazolylazo dyes
Authors: Bazel Y. , Tupys A. , Ostapiuk Y. , Tymoshuk O. , Imrich J. , Šandrejová J.
Published: April 2018

A facile sequential method for the determination of copper(ii) in tap and river waters with high sample throughput is proposed.
Dual-cycle immobilization to reuse both enzyme and support by reblossoming enzyme–inorganic hybrid nanoflowers
Authors: Yu Jianyun , Wang Chenhui , Wang Anming , Li Ningning , Chen Xinxin , Pei Xiaolin , Zhang Pengfei , Wu Stephen Gang
Published: April 2018

Both enzyme and support can be recycled using dual-cycle immobilization method by reblossoming the enzyme–inorganic hybrid nanoflowers.
Facile synthesis of hollow hierarchical Ni@C nanocomposites with well-dispersed high-loading Ni nanoparticles embedded in carbon for reduction of 4-nitrophenol
Authors: Guo Xiaodi , Kan Hongpeng , Liu Xinxin , Geng Hongshuai , Wang Lianying
Published: April 2018

Hollow hierarchical Ni@C nanocomposites with highly dispersed Ni nanoparticles (NPs) embedded in well-graphitized carbon matrix have been synthesized by solid-state pyrolysis of simple, well-defined organic–inorganic layered nickel hydroxide.
TiO2 surfaces self-doped with Ag nanoparticles exhibit efficient CO2 photoreduction under visible light
Authors: Zhang Yanzhao , Wang Xiya , Dong Peimei , Huang Zhengfeng , Nie Xiaoxiao , Zhang Xiwen
Published: April 2018

It is a simple process of realizing Ag nanoparticles deposition and TiO2 self-doping, which can promote the photocatalytic performance.
Efficiency of brown seaweed (Sargassum longifolium) polysaccharides encapsulated in nanoemulsion and nanostructured lipid carrier against colon cancer cell lines HCT 116
Authors: Shofia Saghya Infant , Jayakumar Kannan , Mukherjee Amitava , Chandrasekaran Natarajan
Published: April 2018

Bioactive polysaccharides extracted from brown seaweeds have potent antioxidant, antitumor, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory activities and nanomedicine applications.
Hydrogen gas generation using a metal-free fluorinated porphyrin
Authors: Wu Yanyu , Rodríguez-López Nancy , Villagrán Dino
Published: April 2018

Free-base meso-tetra(pentafluorophenyl)porphyrin, 1, is electrocatalytically active for hydrogen gas generation in the presence of p-toluenesulfonic acid.
Phase-segregated NiPx@FePyOz core@shell nanoparticles: ready-to-use nanocatalysts for electro- and photo-catalytic water oxidation through in situ activation by structural transformation and spontaneous ligand removal
Authors: Saruyama Masaki , Kim Sunwon , Nishino Toshio , Sakamoto Masanori , Haruta Mitsutaka , Kurata Hiroki , Akiyama Seiji , Yamada Taro , Domen Kazunari , Teranishi Toshiharu
Published: April 2018

The phase-segregated NiPx@FePyOz core@shell NPs act as a colloidally stable, ready-to-use, and excellent OER active transition metal phosphide-based catalyst.
Self-reporting and refoldable profluorescent single-chain nanoparticles
Authors: Fischer Tobias S. , Spann Sebastian , An Qi , Luy Burkhard , Tsotsalas Manuel , Blinco James P. , Mutlu Hatice , Barner-Kowollik Christopher
Published: April 2018

We pioneer the formation of self-reporting and refoldable profluorescent single-chain nanoparticles (SCNPs) via the light-induced reaction (λmax = 320 nm) of nitroxide radicals with a photo-active crosslinker.
79/81Br nuclear quadrupole resonance spectroscopic characterization of halogen bonds in supramolecular assemblies
Authors: Cerreia Vioglio P. , Szell P. M. J. , Chierotti M. R. , Gobetto R. , Bryce D. L.
Published: April 2018

One- and two-dimensional bromine-79/81 NQR spectroscopy of halogen bond donors in a series of cocrystals shows changes in resonance frequency of up to 20 MHz and differentiates between crystallographically non-equivalent bromine sites.
Transition metal atom doping of the basal plane of MoS2 monolayer nanosheets for electrochemical hydrogen evolution
Authors: Lau Thomas H. M. , Lu XiaoWei , Kulhavý Jiří , Wu Simson , Lu Lilin , Wu Tai-Sing , Kato Ryuichi , Foord John S. , Soo Yun-Liang , Suenaga Kazu , Tsang Shik Chi Edman
Published: April 2018

A Co atom enhances the HER activity of monolayer MoS2 whereas a Ni atom exhibits the opposite effect on the same basal site.
β C–H di-halogenation via iterative hydrogen atom transfer
Authors: Wappes Ethan A. , Vanitcha Avassaya , Nagib David A.
Published: April 2018

A radical relay strategy for mono- and di-halogenation (iodination, bromination, and chlorination) of sp3 C–H bonds has been developed. This first example of double, geminal C–H functionalization is enabled via iterative, hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) by in situ generated imidate radicals.
Silylation reactions on nanoporous gold via homolytic Si–H activation of silanes
Authors: Li Hongbo , Guo Huifang , Li Zhiwen , Wu Cai , Li Jing , Zhao Chunliang , Guo Shuangxi , Ding Yi , He Wei , Li Yadong
Published: April 2018

We report compelling evidences that dihydrosilanes are activated in a homolytic fashion on the surface of nanoporous gold (NPG), which produces hydrogen radical and silicon moieties covalently linked to the surface of the NPG. This new reactivity has led to the development of novel silylation reactions on gold.
Ultrasound-assisted synthesis of Pt–Co/C bimetallic alloys for oxygen reduction in PEM fuel cells
Authors: Polagani Rajesh Kumar , Suryawanshi Prashant L. , Gumfekar Sarang P. , Sonawane Shirish H. , Ashokkumar Muthupandian
Published: April 2018

The polarization study revealed the information on the electrocatalytic activity of Pt–Co/C cathodes in PEMFCs.
Controlled electrodeposition of iron oxide/nickel oxide@Ni for the investigation of the effects of stoichiometry and particle size on energy storage and water splitting applications
Authors: Saha Sanjit , Kumar J. Sharath , Chandra Murmu Naresh , Samanta Pranab , Kuila Tapas
Published: April 2018

Controlled synthesis of nickel/iron multimetal oxides with different stoichiometry and particle sizes was carried out by varying the pH of the reaction medium.
Zeolite-templated nanoporous carbon for high-performance supercapacitors
Authors: Lu Hao , Kim Kyoungsoo , Kwon Yonghyun , Sun Xiaoming , Ryoo Ryong , Zhao X. S.
Published: April 2018

Hierarchical porous carbon prepared with calcium-containing nanocrystalline beta zeolite as the template and ethylene as the carbon source at a relatively low carbonization temperature (600 °C) displayed excellent electrocapacitive properties.
Ti2Nb2xO4+5x anode materials for lithium-ion batteries: a comprehensive review
Authors: Hu Lei , Luo Lijie , Tang Lingfei , Lin Chunfu , Li Renjie , Chen Yongjun
Published: April 2018

The research progress on Ti2Nb2xO4+5x is presented with emphases on the research history, structures, characteristics, working mechanisms, modifications and perspectives.
Graphene oxide-branched polyethylenimine foams for efficient removal of toxic cations from water
Authors: Pakulski Dawid , Czepa Włodzimierz , Witomska Samanta , Aliprandi Alessandro , Pawluć Piotr , Patroniak Violetta , Ciesielski Artur , Samorì Paolo
Published: April 2018

Highly porous foams based on graphene oxide functionalized with branched polyethylenimine are generated and used with unprecedented efficiency for adsorbing heavy metal ions.
Self-assembled CaP-based hybrid nanoparticles to enhance gene transfection efficiency in vitro and in vivo: beneficial utilization of PEGylated bisphosphate and nucleus locating signal
Authors: Li Wenpan , Liu Dan , Wang Qiqi , Hu Haiyang , Chen Dawei
Published: April 2018

Calcium phosphate (CaP) nanoparticles have been considered as a non-viral gene delivery vehicle, but the weakness of inconsistent and low transfection efficiencies is limited to its progress.
Imbalance of gut microbiome and intestinal epithelial barrier dysfunction in cardiovascular disease
Authors: Lezutekong Judith N. , Nikhanj Anish , Oudit Gavin Y.
Published: April 2018

The main function of the intestinal barrier is to regulate the absorption of nutrients, electrolytes, and water from the lumen into circulation and to prevent the entry of pathogenic microorganisms and toxic luminal substances. To maintain this function, an ideal microbiota balance is required and gut microbiota are critical for the intestinal epithelial barrier dysfunction and for the maintenance of physiological homeostasis. There is a demonstrable link between dysbiosis and intestinal dysfunction and diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. However, links amongst gut pathology, microbial ecology, and blood pressure remain elusive. In a recent issue of Clinical Science (vol. 132, issue 6, 701-718), Kim et al. demonstrate a crucial link between gut microbiota and bacterial metabolites such as butyrate, gut leakiness, and hypertension.