bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Borrelia protein candidates in mouse skin for potential diagnosis of disseminated Lyme borreliosis
Authors: Grillon Antoine , Westermann Benoît , Cantero Paola , Jaulhac Benoît , Voordouw Maarten J. , Kapps Delphine , Collin Elody , Barthel Cathy , Ehret-Sabatier Laurence , Boulanger Nathalie
Published: November 2017

In vector-borne diseases, the skin plays an essential role in the transmission of vector-borne pathogens between the vertebrate host and blood-feeding arthropods and in pathogen persistence.Borrelia burgdorferisensu lato is a tick-borne bacterium that causes Lyme borreliosis (LB) in humans. This pathogen may establish a long-lasting infection in its natural vertebrate host where it can persist in the skin and some other organs. Using a mouse model, we demonstrate thatBorreliatargets the skin regardless of the route of inoculation, and can persist there at low densities that are difficult to detect via qPCR, but that were infective for blood-feeding ticks. Application of immunosuppressive dermocorticoids at 40 days post-infection (PI) significantly enhanced theBorreliapopulation size in the mouse skin. We used non-targeted (Ge-LC-MS/MS) and targeted (SRM-MS) proteomics to detect severalBorrelia-specific proteins in the mouse skin at 40 days PI. DetectedBorreliaproteins included flagellin, VlsE and GAPDH. An important problem in LB is the lack of diagnosis methods capable of detecting active infection in humans suffering from disseminated LB. The identification ofBorreliaproteins in skin biopsies may provide new approaches for assessing active infection in disseminated manifestations.
Immune and Imaging Correlates of Mild Cognitive Impairment Conversion to Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: La Rosa Francesca , Saresella Marina , Baglio Francesca , Piancone Federica , Marventano Ivana , Calabrese Elena , Nemni Raffaello , Ripamonti Enrico , Cabinio Monia , Clerici Mario
Published: November 2017

Amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) conversion to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is seen in a sizable portion of aMCI patients; correlates predicting such conversion are poorly defined but neuroinflammation and the reactivation of chronic viral infections are suspected to play a role in this phenomenon. We analyzed these aspects in two homogeneous groups of aMCI who did or did not convert to AD over a 24-months period. Results showed that at baseline in those aMCI individuals who did not convert to AD: 1) Aβ1-42 stimulated production of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL6 and IL1β by CD14+ cells was significantly reduced (p = 0.01), 2) CD14+/IL-33+ cells were increased (p = 0.0004); 3) MFI of TLR8 and TLR9 was significantly increased, and 4) better preserved hippocampus volumes were observed and correlated with IL33+/CD14+ cells. Notably, Aβ1-42 stimulated production of the antiviral cytokine IFN-λ was increased as well in non-AD converters, although with a borderline statistical significance (p = 0.05). Data herein indicating that proinflammatory cytokines are reduced, whereas IFN-λ production and TLR8 and 9 MFI are augmented in those aMCI in whom AD conversion is not observed suggest that the ability to mount stronger antiviral response within an antiiflammatory milieu associates with lack of AD conversion.
Hypersensitivity of BRCA2 deficient cells to rosemary extract explained by weak PARP inhibitory activity
Authors: Su Cathy , Gius Jeffrey P. , Van Steenberg Julia , Haskins Alexis H. , Heishima Kazuki , Omata Chisato , Iwayama Masahiro , Murakami Mami , Mori Takashi , Maruo Kohji , Kato Takamitsu A.
Published: November 2017

Rosemary extract is used in food additives and traditional medicine and has been observed to contain anti-tumor activity. In this study, rosemary extract is hypothesized to induce synthetic lethality in BRCA2 deficient cells by PARP inhibition. Chinese hamster lung V79 cells and its mutant cell lines, V-C8 (BRCA2 deficient) and V-C8 with BRCA2 gene correction were used. Rosemary extract and its major constituent chemicals were tested for their cytotoxicity by colony formation assay in cells of different BRCA2 status. The latter chemicals were tested for inhibitory effect of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) activity in vitro and in vivo. Rosemary has shown selective cytotoxicity against V-C8 cells (IC50 17 µg/ml) compared to V79 cells (IC50 26 µg/ml). Among tested chemicals, gallic acid and carnosic acid showed selective cytotoxicity to V-C8 cells along with PARP inhibitory effects. Carnosol showed comparative PARP inhibitory effects at 100 µM compared to carnosic acid and gallic acid, but the selective cytotoxicity was not observed. In conclusion, we predict that within rosemary extract two specific constituent components; gallic acid and carnosic acid were the cause for the synthetic lethality.
Combined genetic approaches yield a 48% diagnostic rate in a large cohort of French hearing-impaired patients
Authors: Baux D. , Vaché C. , Blanchet C. , Willems M. , Baudoin C. , Moclyn M. , Faugère V. , Touraine R. , Isidor B. , Dupin-Deguine D. , Nizon M. , Vincent M. , Mercier S. , Calais C. , García-García G. , Azher Z. , Lambert L. , Perdomo-Trujillo Y. , Giuliano F. , Claustres M. , Koenig M. , Mondain M. , Roux A. F.
Published: November 2017

Hearing loss is the most common sensory disorder and because of its high genetic heterogeneity, implementation of Massively Parallel Sequencing (MPS) in diagnostic laboratories is greatly improving the possibilities of offering optimal care to patients. We present the results of a two-year period of molecular diagnosis that included 207 French families referred for non-syndromic hearing loss. Our multi-step strategy involved (i) DFNB1 locus analysis, (ii) MPS of 74 genes, and (iii) additional approaches including Copy Number Variations, in silico analyses, minigene studies coupled when appropriate with complete gene sequencing, and a specific assay for STRC. This comprehensive screening yielded an overall diagnostic rate of 48%, equally distributed between DFNB1 (24%) and the other genes (24%). Pathogenic genotypes were identified in 19 different genes, with a high prevalence of GJB2, STRC, MYO15A, OTOF, TMC1, MYO7A and USH2A. Involvement of an Usher gene was reported in 16% of the genotyped cohort. Four de novo variants were identified. This study highlights the need to develop several molecular approaches for efficient molecular diagnosis of hearing loss, as this is crucial for genetic counselling, audiological rehabilitation and the detection of syndromic forms.
A simple high throughput assay to evaluate water consumption in the fruit fly
Authors: Lau Man-Tat , Lin Yong Qi , Kisling Stefan , Cotterell James , Wilson Yana A. , Wang Qiao-Ping , Khuong Thang M. , Bakhshi Noman , Cole Tiffany A. , Oyston Lisa J. , Cole Adam R. , Neely G. Gregory
Published: November 2017

Water intake is essential for survival and thus under strong regulation. Here, we describe a simple high throughput system to monitor water intake over time in Drosophila. The design of the assay involves dehydrating fly food and then adding water back separately so flies either eat or drink. Water consumption is then evaluated by weighing the water vessel and comparing this back to an evaporation control. Our system is high throughput, does not require animals to be artificially dehydrated, and is simple both in design and implementation. Initial characterisation of homeostatic water consumption shows high reproducibility between biological replicates in a variety of experimental conditions. Water consumption was dependent on ambient temperature and humidity and was equal between sexes when corrected for mass. By combining this system with the Drosophila genetics tools, we could confirm a role for ppk28 and DopR1 in promoting water consumption, and through functional investigation of RNAseq data from dehydrated animals, we found DopR1 expression in the mushroom body was sufficient to drive consumption and enhance water taste sensitivity. Together, we provide a simple high throughput water consumption assay that can be used to dissect the cellular and molecular machinery regulating water homeostasis in Drosophila.
High throughput deep sequencing reveals the important roles of microRNAs during sweetpotato storage at chilling temperature
Authors: Xie Zeyi , Wang Aiming , Li Hongmin , Yu Jingjing , Jiang Jiaojiao , Tang Zhonghou , Ma Daifu , Zhang Baohong , Han Yonghua , Li Zongyun
Published: November 2017

Sweetpotato (Impomoea batatas L.) is a globally important economic food crop with a potential of becoming a bioenergy and pharmaceutical crop. Thus, studying the molecular mechanism of tuberous root development and storage is very important. However, not too much progress has been made in this field. In this study, we employed the next generation high-throughput deep sequencing technology to sequence all small RNAs and degradome of sweetpotato for systematically investigating sweetpotato response to chilling stress during storage. A total of 190 known microRNAs (miRNAs) and 191 novel miRNAs were identified, and 428 transcripts were targeted by 184 identified miRNAs. More importantly, we identified 26 miRNAs differentially expressed between chilling stress and control conditions. The expression of these miRNAs and their targets was also confirmed by qRT-PCR. Integrated analysis of small RNAs and degradome sequencing reveals that miRNA-mediated SA signaling, ABA-dependent, and ROS response pathways are involved in sweetpotato root response to chilling stress during storage.
Modeling of the jasmonate signaling pathway in Arabidopsis thaliana with respect to pathophysiology of Alternaria blight in Brassica
Authors: Pathak Rajesh Kumar , Baunthiyal Mamta , Pandey Neetesh , Pandey Dinesh , Kumar Anil
Published: November 2017

The productivity of Oilseed Brassica, one of the economically important crops of India, is seriously affected by the disease, Alternaria blight. The disease is mainly caused by two major necrotrophic fungi, Alternaria brassicae and Alternaria brassicicola which are responsible for significant yield losses. Till date, no resistant source is available against Alternaria blight, hence plant breeding methods can not be used to develop disease resistant varieties. Jasmonate mediated signalling pathway, which is known to play crucial role during defense response against necrotrophs, could be strengthened in Brassica plants to combat the disease. Since scanty information is available in Brassica-Alternaria pathosystems at molecular level therefore, in the present study efforts have been made to model jasmonic acid pathway in Arabidopsis thaliana to simulate the dynamic behaviour of molecular species in the model. Besides, the developed model was also analyzed topologically for investigation of the hubs node. COI1 is identified as one of the promising candidate genes in response to Alternaria and other linked components of plant defense mechanisms against the pathogens. The findings from present study are therefore informative for understanding the molecular basis of pathophysiology and rational management of Alternaria blight for securing food and nutritional security.
Low temperature and low salinity drive putatively adaptive growth differences in populations of threespine stickleback
Authors: Gibbons Taylor C. , Rudman Seth M. , Schulte Patricia M.
Published: November 2017

Colonisation can expose organisms to novel combinations of abiotic and biotic factors and drive adaptive divergence. Yet, studies investigating the interactive effects of multiple abiotic factors on the evolution of physiological traits remain rare. Here we examine the effects of low salinity, low temperature, and their interaction on the growth of three North American populations of threespine stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus). In north-temperate freshwater habitats, stickleback populations experience a combination of low salinity and low winter temperatures that are not experienced by the ancestral marine and anadromous populations. Here we show that both salinity and temperature, and their interaction, have stronger negative effects on marine and anadromous populations than a freshwater population. Freshwater stickleback showed only a ~20% reduction in specific growth rate when exposed to 4 °C, while marine and anadromous stickleback showed sharp declines (82% and 74% respectively) under these conditions. The modest decreases in growth in freshwater stickleback in fresh water in the cold strongly suggest that this population has the capacity for physiological compensation to offset the negative thermodynamic effects of low temperature on growth. These results are suggestive of adaptive evolution in response to the interactive effects of low salinity and low temperature during freshwater colonisation.
Selective uptake and sensing of nitrate in poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)
Authors: Rudd Sam , Dalton Michael , Buss Peter , Treijs Amanda , Portmann Michael , Ktoris Nick , Evans Drew
Published: November 2017

Nitrogen (N) as a nutrient, in the form of nitrate (NO3−), is essential for plant growth. Chemical fertilizers are used to increase crop yields, but overuse can lead to forms of environmental pollution necessitating methods to detect and monitor the level of NO3−in-situ in agricultural soils. Herein we report for the first time the NO3− selectivity of the inherently conducting polymer poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT). This selectivity occurs when PEDOT thin films are exposed to an aqueous environment containing not only NO3−, but a mixture of other ions present in concentrations (ppm) typical of real agricultural soil. The PEDOT sensitivity to absorb NO3− from solution is determined to be <1 ppm.
Uncovering different states of topological defects in schlieren textures of a nematic liquid crystal
Authors: Ohzono Takuya , Katoh Kaoru , Wang Chenguang , Fukazawa Aiko , Yamaguchi Shigehiro , Fukuda Jun-ichi
Published: November 2017

Topological defects are ubiquitously found in physical systems and therefore have been an important research subject of not only condensed matter physics but also cosmology. However, their fine structures remain elusive because of the microscopic scales involved. In the case of a liquid crystal, optical microscopy, although routinely used for the identification of liquid crystal phases and associated defects, does not have resolution high enough to distinguish fine structures of topological defects. Here we show that polarised and fluorescence microscopy, with the aid of numerical calculations on the orientational order and resulting image distortions, can uncover the structural states of topological defects with strengthm =  ±1 in a thin cell of a nematic liquid crystal. Particularly, defects withm = +1 exhibit four different states arising from chiral symmetry breaking and up-down symmetry breaking. Our results demonstrate that optical microscopy is still a powerful tool to identify fine states of liquid crystalline defects.
Influenza virus Matrix Protein M1 preserves its conformation with pH, changing multimerization state at the priming stage due to electrostatics
Authors: Shtykova Eleonora V. , Dadinova Liubov A. , Fedorova Natalia V. , Golanikov Andrey E. , Bogacheva Elena N. , Ksenofontov Alexander L. , Baratova Liudmila A. , Shilova Liudmila A. , Tashkin Vsevolod Yu. , Galimzyanov Timur R. , Jeffries Cy M. , Svergun Dmitri I. , Batishchev Oleg V.
Published: November 2017

Influenza A virus matrix protein M1 plays an essential role in the virus lifecycle, but its functional and structural properties are not entirely defined. Here we employed small-angle X-ray scattering, atomic force microscopy and zeta-potential measurements to characterize the overall structure and association behavior of the full-length M1 at different pH conditions. We demonstrate that the protein consists of a globular N-terminal domain and a flexible C-terminal extension. The globular N-terminal domain of M1 monomers appears preserved in the range of pH from 4.0 to 6.8, while the C-terminal domain remains flexible and the tendency to form multimers changes dramatically. We found that the protein multimerization process is reversible, whereby the binding between M1 molecules starts to break around pH 6. A predicted electrostatic model of M1 self-assembly at different pH revealed a good agreement with zeta-potential measurements, allowing one to assess the role of M1 domains in M1-M1 and M1-lipid interactions. Together with the protein sequence analysis, these results provide insights into the mechanism of M1 scaffold formation and the major role of the flexible and disordered C-terminal domain in this process.
Image Fiber-Based Miniature Suspended Solid Sensor with High Accuracy and a Large Dynamic Range
Authors: Qi Pengfei , Lin Lie , Huang Rui , Zhao Sicong , Tian Haolin , Li Shuai , Zhang Qinghe , Liu Weiwei
Published: November 2017

An image fiber-based miniature suspended solid sensor has been demonstrated. The diameter of the sensor is only a few millimeters. A superhydrophobic material is coated on the end of the image fiber to avoid the adsorption of suspended solids and bubbles. Multiple parameters, including mass concentration, morphology and particle sizes of suspended solids, can be visually measured in real time. Dynamic ranges of 0 ~100 kg/m3, full range accuracies of ±2‰ and a response time of 0.05 s were experimentally realized for the mass concentration measurements. Determinations of particle sizes of the suspended solids are also presented by means of digital image processing. This new technique will significantly advance ultralow-intrusion measurements in studies on the dynamics of suspended solids.
Addition of a histone deacetylase inhibitor increases recombinant protein expression in Medicago truncatula cell cultures
Authors: Santos Rita B. , Pires Ana Sofia , Abranches Rita
Published: November 2017

Plant cell cultures are an attractive platform for the production of recombinant proteins. A major drawback, hindering the establishment of plant cell suspensions as an industrial platform, is the low product yield obtained thus far. Histone acetylation is associated with increased transcription levels, therefore it is expected that the use of histone deacetylase inhibitors would result in an increase in mRNA and protein levels. Here, this hypothesis was tested by adding a histone deacetylase inhibitor, suberanilohydroxamic acid (SAHA), to a cell line of the model legume Medicago truncatula expressing a recombinant human protein. Histone deacetylase inhibition by SAHA and histone acetylation levels were studied, and the effect of SAHA on gene expression and recombinant protein levels was assessed by digital PCR. SAHA addition effectively inhibited histone deacetylase activity resulting in increased histone acetylation. Higher levels of transgene expression and accumulation of the associated protein were observed. This is the first report describing histone deacetylase inhibitors as inducers of recombinant protein expression in plant cell suspensions as well as the use of digital PCR in these biological systems. This study paves the way for employing epigenetic strategies to improve the final yields of recombinant proteins produced by plant cell cultures.
The serine proteinase hepsin is an activator of pro-matrix metalloproteinases: molecular mechanisms and implications for extracellular matrix turnover
Authors: Wilkinson David J. , Desilets Antoine , Lin Hua , Charlton Sarah , del Carmen Arques Maria , Falconer Adrian , Bullock Craig , Hsu Yu-Chen , Birchall Kristian , Hawkins Alastair , Thompson Paul , Ferrell William R. , Lockhart John , Plevin Robin , Zhang Yadan , Blain Emma , Lin Shu-Wha , Leduc Richard , Milner Jennifer M. , Rowan Andrew D.
Published: November 2017

Increasing evidence implicates serine proteinases in the proteolytic cascades leading to the pathological destruction of extracellular matrices such as cartilage in osteoarthritis (OA). We have previously demonstrated that the type II transmembrane serine proteinase (TTSP) matriptase acts as a novel initiator of cartilage destruction via the induction and activation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Hepsin is another TTSP expressed in OA cartilage such that we hypothesized this proteinase may also contribute to matrix turnover. Herein, we demonstrate that addition of hepsin to OA cartilage in explant culture induced significant collagen and aggrecan release and activated proMMP-1 and proMMP-3. Furthermore, hepsin directly cleaved the aggrecan core protein at a novel cleavage site within the interglobular domain. Hepsin expression correlated with synovitis as well as tumour necrosis factor α expression, and was induced in cartilage by a pro-inflammatory stimulus. However, a major difference compared to matriptase was that hepsin demonstrated markedly reduced capacity to activate proteinase-activated receptor-2. Overall, our data suggest that hepsin, like matriptase, induces potent destruction of the extracellular matrix whilst displaying distinct efficiencies for the cleavage of specific substrates.
Early-Mid Pleistocene genetic differentiation and range expansions as exemplified by invasive Eurasian Bunias orientalis (Brassicaceae) indicates the Caucasus as key region
Authors: Koch Marcus A. , Michling Florian , Walther Andrea , Huang Xiao-Chen , Tewes Lisa , Müller Caroline
Published: November 2017

Turkish Warty cabbage,Bunias orientalisL. (Brassicaceae) is a perennial herb known for its 250 years of invasion history into Europe and worldwide temperate regions. Putative centers of origin were debated to be located in Turkey, the Caucasus or Eastern Europe. Based on the genetic variation from the nuclear and plastid genomes, we identified two major gene pools in the Caucasian-Irano-Turanian region and close to the Northern Caucasus, respectively. These gene pools are old and started to diverge and expand approximately 930 kya in the Caucasus. Pleistocene glaciation and deglaciation cycles favoured later expansion of a European gene pool 230 kya, which was effectively separated from the Caucasian-Irano-Turanian gene pool. Although the European gene pool is genetically less diverse, it has largely served as source for colonization of Western and Northern Europe in modern times with rare observations of genetic contributions from the Caucasian-Irano-Turanian gene pool such as in North-East America. This study largely utilized herbarium material to take advantage of a biodiversity treasure trove providing biological material and also giving access to detailed collection information.
Development of a plasmid free CRISPR-Cas9 system for the genetic modification of Mucor circinelloides
Authors: Nagy Gábor , Szebenyi Csilla , Csernetics Árpád , Vaz Amanda Grace , Tóth Eszter Judit , Vágvölgyi Csaba , Papp Tamás
Published: November 2017

Mucor circinelloides and other members of Mucorales are filamentous fungi, widely used as model organisms in basic and applied studies. Although genetic manipulation methods have been described for some Mucoral fungi, construction of stable integrative transformants by homologous recombination has remained a great challenge in these organisms. In the present study, a plasmid free CRISPR-Cas9 system was firstly developed for the genetic modification of a Mucoral fungus. The described method offers a rapid but robust tool to obtain mitotically stable mutants of M. circinelloides via targeted integration of the desired DNA. It does not require plasmid construction and its expression in the recipient organism. Instead, it involves the direct introduction of the guide RNA and the Cas9 enzyme and, in case of homology directed repair (HDR), the template DNA into the recipient strain. Efficiency of the method for non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) and HDR was tested by disrupting two different genes, i.e. carB encoding phytoene dehydrogenase and hmgR2 encoding 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase, of M. circinelloides. Both NHEJ and HDR resulted in stable gene disruption mutants. While NHEJ caused extensive deletions upstream from the protospacer adjacent motif, HDR assured the integration of the deletion cassette at the targeted site.
New energy with ZnS: novel applications for a standard transparent compound
Authors: D’Amico Pino , Calzolari Arrigo , Ruini Alice , Catellani Alessandra
Published: November 2017

We revise the electronic and optical properties of ZnS on the basis of first principles simulations, in view of novel routes for optoelectronic and photonic devices, such as transparent conductors and plasmonic applications. In particular, we consider doping effects, as induced by Al and Cu. It is shown that doping ZnS with Al imparts a n-character and allows for a plasmonic activity in the mid-IR that can be exploited for IR metamaterials, while Cu doping induces a spin dependent p-type character to the ZnS host, opening the way to the engineering of transparent p-n junctions, p-type transparent conductive materials and spintronic applications. The possibility of promoting the wurtzite lattice, presenting a different symmetry with respect to the most stable and common zincblende structure, is explored. Homo- and heterojunctions to twin ZnO are discussed as a possible route to transparent metamaterial devices for communications and energy.
Close to the diffraction limit in high resolution ATR FTIR mapping: demonstration on micrometric multi-layered art systems
Authors: Bertasa Moira , Possenti Elena , Botteon Alessandra , Conti Claudia , Sansonetti Antonio , Fontana Raffaella , Striova Jana , Sali Diego
Published: November 2017

This paper demonstrates the potentiality of high resolution micro-ATR-FTIR to reconstruct micrometric layers images.
Validation of a lateral flow immunoassay for the rapid determination of aflatoxins in maize by solvent free extraction
Authors: Lattanzio Veronica M. T. , Guarducci Natascia , Powers Stephen , Ciasca Biancamaria , Pascale Michelangelo , von Holst Christoph
Published: November 2017

The analytical performances of a lateral flow immunoassay (AFLA-V AQUA™, Vicam a Waters Business) for the determination of aflatoxins in maize were evaluated according to Commission Regulation (EU) No. 519/2014.
Synthesis of water-soluble fluorescent carbon dots from Setcreasea purpurea boom and its application for Br2 detection
Authors: Zhai Haoying , Zheng Baozhan , Yang Feng , Wang Meina , Xiao Dan
Published: November 2017

Fluorescent carbon dots (CDs) were successfully synthesized via pyrolysis of Setcreasea purpurea boom, providing a simple and convenient method for the preparation of CDs without using toxic or expensive materials.
Enhanced cell adhesion on a bio-inspired hierarchically structured polyester modified with gelatin-methacrylate
Authors: Li Ping , Dou Xiaoqiu , Feng Chuanliang , Schönherr Holger
Published: November 2017

Herein, fabrication and modification of novel bio-inspired microwell arrays with nanoscale topographic structures are reported.
Lighting-up protein–ligand interactions with fluorescent PET (photoinduced electron transfer) sensor designs
Authors: McLaughlin Bernard , Surender Esther M. , Wright Glenn D. , Daly Brian , de Silva A. Prasanna
Published: November 2017

Extending the versatile fluorescent PET sensing/switching system causes ‘off–on’ signalling when a ligand binds to its appropriate protein.
Elaborately programmed nanowires fabricated using a tapered push–pull nozzle system
Authors: Zhang Yong , Mao Sifeng , Suzuki Yuma , Tanaka Yumi , Kawaguchi Masato , Zhang Weifei , Zeng Hulie , Nakajima Hizuru , Yang Ming , Uchiyama Katsumi
Published: November 2017

Elaborately programmed silver nanowire arrays can be prepared using a tapered push–pull nozzle system (TPPNS), which is used to directly write micro-nano wires on a substrate via a two-reagent reaction in the diffusion mixing region.
Investigatingd-lysine stereochemistry for epigenetic methylation, demethylation and recognition
Authors: Belle Roman , Al Temimi Abbas H. K. , Kumar Kiran , Pieters Bas J. G. E. , Tumber Anthony , Dunford James E. , Johansson Catrine , Oppermann Udo , Brown Tom , Schofield Christopher J. , Hopkinson Richard J. , Paton Robert S. , Kawamura Akane , Mecinović Jasmin
Published: November 2017

Writers, erasers and readers show the selectivity for the acceptance of (methyl)d-lysine.
Enantioselective intermolecular all-carbon [4+2] annulation via N-heterocyclic carbene organocatalysis
Authors: Zhang Guoxiang , Xu Weici , Liu Jian , Das Deb Kumar , Yang Shuang , Perveen Saima , Zhang Hao , Li Xinglong , Fang Xinqiang
Published: November 2017

The challenge of asymmetric intermolecular all-carbon [4+2] annulation via α,β-unsaturated acyl azoliums was addressed with 2-acyloxy-3-butenones as suitable dienolate precursors, and a variety of highly functionalized cyclohexene products were delivered at a high level of enantioselectivity.
Physico-chemical profiles of the wobble ↔ Watson–Crick G*·2AP(w) ↔ G·2AP(WC) and A·2AP(w) ↔ A*·2AP(WC) tautomerisations: a QM/QTAIM comprehensive survey
Authors: Brovarets' Ol'ha O. , Voiteshenko Ivan S. , Hovorun Dmytro M.
Published: November 2017

Profiles are established of the energetic, structural, polar, charge and electron-topological parameters during the biologically important tautomerisations implicated in the origin of the point mutations induced by 2-aminopurine.
On the underlying mechanisms of the low observed nitrate selectivity in photocatalytic NOxabatement and the importance of the oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Patzsch Julia , Folli Andrea , Macphee Donald E. , Bloh Jonathan Z.
Published: November 2017

Semiconductor photocatalysis could be an effective means to combat air pollution, especially nitrogen oxides, which can be mineralized to nitrate.
Structures and infrared spectra of calcium phosphate clusters by ab initio methods with implicit solvation models
Authors: Lin Tzu-Jen , Chiu Cheng-Chau
Published: November 2017

We found alternative stable structures of Ca9(PO4)6 other than Posner's cluster in water.
Structure and dynamics of solvent molecules inside the polytheonamide B channel in different environments: a molecular dynamics study
Authors: Kalathingal Mahroof , Sumikama Takashi , Mori Toshifumi , Oiki Shigetoshi , Saito Shinji
Published: November 2017

The β6.3-helical channel of the marine cytotoxic peptide, polytheonamide B (pTB), is examined in water, the POPC bilayer, and a 1 : 1 chloroform/methanol mixture using all-atom molecular dynamics simulations.
Synthetic strategies, diverse structures and tuneable properties of polyoxo-titanium clusters
Authors: Fang Wei-Hui , Zhang Lei , Zhang Jian
Published: November 2017

A review of polyoxo-titanium clusters (PTCs), with an emphasis on synthetic methodologies, diverse structures, tuneable optical properties and potential applications.
Ab initio analysis on potential superbases of several hyperlithiated species: Li3F2O and Li3F2OHn (n = 1, 2)
Authors: Winfough Matthew , Meloni Giovanni
Published: November 2017

A systematic investigation on the potential basicity of the novel hyperlithiated species Li3F2O and Li3F2(OH)n (n = 1, 2) based upon the superalkali cluster Li3F2 was conducted using high-level ab initio techniques.
DFT calculations for structural prediction and applications of intercalated lamellar compounds
Authors: Tavares Sérgio R. , Vaiss Viviane S. , Antunes Florence P. Novais , Fonseca Carla G. , Nangoi Inna M. , Moraes Pedro Ivo R. , Soares Carla V. , Haddad Juliana F. S. , Lima Larissa L. , Silva Bruna N. N. , Leitão Alexandre A.
Published: November 2017

This review lists some relevant types of intercalated lamellar materials and applications of DFT calculations in these materials.
Unveiling the role of ancillary ligands in acceptorless benzyl alcohol dehydrogenation and etherification mediated by mesoionic carbene iridium complexes
Authors: Vivancos Ángela , Petronilho Ana , Cardoso Joao , Müller-Bunz Helge , Albrecht Martin
Published: November 2017

We synthesized a set of triazolylidene iridium(iii) complexes [IrCp*(C^N)L]n+ containing different neutral or anionic ancillary ligands L and demonstrated their impact on the catalytic activity in alcohol conversion.
Cleaner production of cleaner fuels: wind-to-wheel – environmental assessment of CO2-based oxymethylene ether as a drop-in fuel
Authors: Deutz Sarah , Bongartz Dominik , Heuser Benedikt , Kätelhön Arne , Schulze Langenhorst Luisa , Omari Ahmad , Walters Marius , Klankermayer Jürgen , Leitner Walter , Mitsos Alexander , Pischinger Stefan , Bardow André
Published: November 2017

A well-to-wheel LCA shows that OME1could serve as an almost carbon-neutral blending component in diesel while even also strongly reducing the NOx and soot emissions.
β-Carotene bioaccessibility from biofortified maize (Zea mays) is related to its density and is negatively influenced by lutein and zeaxanthin
Authors: Dube Nivedita , Mashurabad Purna Chandra , Hossain Firoz , Pullakhandam Raghu , Thingnganing Longvah , Bharatraj Dinesh Kumar
Published: November 2017

The β-Carotene bioaccessibility is higher from biofortified maize and is negatively influenced by lutein and zeaxanthin.
Extraction of triterpenoids and phenolic compounds from Ganoderma lucidum: optimization study using the response surface methodology
Authors: Oludemi Taofiq , Barros Lillian , Prieto M. A. , Heleno Sandrina A. , Barreiro Maria F. , Ferreira Isabel C. F. R.
Published: November 2017

The extraction of triterpenoids and phenolic compounds from Ganoderma lucidum was optimized by response surface methodology, using heat and ultrasound assisted extraction techniques.
Superbase ionic liquids for effective cellulose processing from dissolution to carbonisation
Authors: Kuzmina Olga , Bhardwaj Jyoti , Vincent Sheril Rizal , Wanasekara Nandula Dasitha , Kalossaka Livia Mariadaria , Griffith Jeraime , Potthast Antje , Rahatekar Sameer , Eichhorn Stephen James , Welton Tom
Published: November 2017

Strong cellulose fibres and highly ordered carbon fibres can be produced from solutions in superbase ionic liquids.
Morphology-controlled fabrication of biomorphic alumina-based hierarchical LDH compounds for propane dehydrogenation reaction
Authors: Zhang Hongxing , Zhang Yiwei , Zhou Yuming , Sheng Xiaoli , Zhang Chao , Fang Jiasheng , Zhao Shuo , Gao Yan
Published: November 2017

The complex interplay between a hierarchical material and intrinsic LDH properties such as crystallinity could increase catalytic effectiveness.
Enhanced n-dodecane hydroisomerization performance by tailoring acid sites on bifunctional Pt/ZSM-22 via alkaline treatment
Authors: Wu Xian , Qiu Minghuang , Chen Xinqing , Yu Gan , Yu Xing , Yang Chengguang , Sun Jian , Liu Ziyu , Sun Yuhan
Published: November 2017

Acidity controlled Pt/ZSM-22 catalysts for n-dodecane hydroisomerization were explored through a simple and efficient post-treatment with different NaOH concentrations, and then the resulting samples were characterized.
Spontaneous polarization field-enhanced charge separation for an iron oxide photo-catalyst
Authors: Johnson J. , Bakranov N. , Moniruddin M. , Iskakov R. , Kudaibergenov S. , Nuraje N.
Published: November 2017

Hierarchically assembled photocatalysts consisting of iron oxide and zinc oxide with a nanosheet structure exhibited an enhanced photocurrent density in water splitting.
Facile preparation and investigation of the properties of single molecular POSS-based white-light-emitting hybrid materials using click chemistry
Authors: Zhao Gang , Zhu Yakun , Guang Shanyi , Ke Fuyou , Xu Hongyao
Published: November 2017

Recently, organic white light emitting devices (OWLEDs) have attracted great interest in flexible displays and solid state lighting devices.
Probing nano-patterned peptide self-organisation at the aqueous graphene interface
Authors: Hughes Zak E. , Walsh Tiffany R.
Published: November 2017

The peptide sequence GrBP5, IMVTESSDYSSY, is found experimentally to bind to graphene, and ex situ atomic force microscopy indicates the formation of an ordered over-layer on the graphene substrate. It is unclear if these patterns are stable under aqueous conditions. Here, advanced molecular dynamics simulations suggest this patterning cannot be sustained in aqueous solution and suggest ways to realise pattern formation in water.
Insights of BO3–PO4 replacement for the design and synthesis of a new borate–phosphate with unique 1∞[Zn4BO11] chains and two new phosphates
Authors: Guo Fengjiao , Hu Cong , Wang Ying , Han Jian , Yang Zhihua , Pan Shilie
Published: November 2017

A borate–phosphate CsZn4(BO3)(PO4)2 and two phosphates CsZn4(PO4)3 and RbZn4(PO4)3 were obtained via BO3–PO4 replacement, and the substitution of BO3–PO4 is a feasible strategy for preparing new compounds.
FRET-mediated near infrared whispering gallery modes: studies on the relevance of intracavity energy transfer withQ-factors
Authors: Oki Osamu , Kushida Soh , Mikosch Annabel , Hatanaka Kota , Takeda Youhei , Minakata Satoshi , Kuwabara Junpei , Kanbara Takaki , Dao Thang D. , Ishii Satoshi , Nagao Tadaaki , Kuehne Alexander J. C. , Deschler Felix , Friend Richard H. , Yamamoto Yohei
Published: November 2017

NIR WGM resonators are fabricated from energy-donating and accepting conjugated polymers.
The hexameric resorcinarene capsule as an artificial enzyme: ruling the regio and stereochemistry of a 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition between nitrones and unsaturated aldehydes
Authors: La Manna Pellegrino , De Rosa Margherita , Talotta Carmen , Gaeta Carmine , Soriente Annunziata , Floresta Giuseppe , Rescifina Antonio , Neri Placido
Published: November 2017

The hexameric resorcinarene capsule as an artificial enzyme to rule the regio and stereochemistry of a 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition.
A novel gas conductor–gas barrier (GC–GB) blending membrane with adjustable gas separation capacity
Authors: He Qi , Xiao Xiaoyue , Wang Wenxia , Huang Yanbo , He Jiapeng , Xiao Kaijun
Published: November 2017

A promising avenue to preserve harvested fruits and vegetables can be achieved by designing a “breathable” membrane named as equilibrium modified atmosphere packaging (EMAP).
Preparation, characterization and antitumor activity evaluation of silibinin nanoparticles for oral delivery through liquid antisolvent precipitation
Authors: Wu Weiwei , Zu Yuangang , Wang Lingling , Wang Li , Li Yuanyuan , Liu Yanjie , Wu Mingfang , Zhao Xiuhua , Zhang Xinxin
Published: November 2017

In order to improve the solubility and bioavailability of silibinin (SLB), the SLB nanoparticles were prepared by liquid antisolvent precipitation, and the oral bioavailability of SLB nanoparticles obtained was about 6.48 times higher than that of the free SLB.
Colloidal quantum dot chains: self-assembly mechanism and ratiometric fluorescent sensing
Authors: Sun Qin , Yang Liang , Su Lei , Liu Weikang , Wang Yifan , Yu Shaoming , Jiang Changlong , Zhang Zhongping
Published: November 2017

Colloidal quantum dot chains self-assembled via the mediation of trithiocyanuric acid (TTCA) and ratiometric fluorescent sensing with blue emitting carbon dots (CDs) for As(iii).
p-JAK2 plays a key role in catalpol-induced protection against rat intestinal ischemia/reperfusion injury
Authors: Lian Mengqiao , Sun Yuchao , Lin Yuan , Wen Jin , Almoiliqy Marwan , Xu Bin , Li Yanli , Xu Ming , Chen Dapeng , Tang Zeyao , Wang Li
Published: November 2017

Catalpol attenuated rat intestinal I/R injury by decreasing mitochondria-mediated apoptosis through blocking the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathwayviaselective inhibition of p-JAK2.
Phosphomolybdic acid immobilized on ionic liquid-modified hexagonal boron nitride for oxidative desulfurization of fuel
Authors: Ji Haiyan , Ju Haitao , Lan Rong , Wu Peiwen , Sun Jia , Chao Yanhong , Xun Suhang , Zhu Wenshuai , Li Huaming
Published: November 2017

An ionic liquid modified hexagonal boron nitride was developed for preparation of a supported catalyst with enhanced stability and excellent catalytic performance in catalytic oxidative desulfurization.
Metal-free direct thiocarbamation of imidazopyridines with carbamoyl chloride and elemental sulfur
Authors: Deng Jian-Chao , Zhuang Shi-Bin , Liu Quan-Zhu , Lin Zi-Wei , Su Yu-Liang , Chen Jia-Hao , Tang Ri-Yuan
Published: November 2017

Metal-free direct thiocarbamation of imidazopyridines using elemental sulfur.
Effect of oxide on surface tension of molten metal
Authors: Li Chunkai , Shi Yu , Gu YuFen , Yang Fuqian
Published: November 2017

System for the measurement of surface tension of molten metal; variation of d〈γ〉/dt with coating density of oxides.
Combined effect of tris(2-chloroethyl)phosphate and benzo (a) pyrene on the release of IL-6 and IL-8 from HepG2 cellsviathe EGFR-ERK1/2 signaling pathway
Authors: Zhang Youjian , Zhang Wenjuan , Hou Jian , Wang Xian , Zheng Hongyan , Xiong Wei , Yuan Jing
Published: November 2017

Tris(2-chloroethyl)phosphate plus benzo (a) pyrene induced inflammatory response in HepG2 cells through the activation of EGFR-ERK1/2 signaling pathway.
A facile and viable approach to fabricate polyamide membranes functionalized with graphene oxide nanosheets
Authors: Pang Ruizhi , Zhang Kaisong
Published: November 2017

The covalent binding of GO nanosheets to a PA RO membrane was successfully achieved by reacting the primary amine functional groups of aminated GO (AGO) nanosheets with the unreacted acid chloride groups of the nascent PA membrane.
Large-scale synthesis of polyhedral Ag nanoparticles for printed electronics
Authors: Polani Shlomi , Melamed Semyon , Burlaka Luba , De La Vega Fernando , Zitoun David
Published: November 2017

The large-scale synthesis of polyhedral Ag nanoparticles (NPs) described here follows a mediated-particle mechanism and the formulation of NPs in high volume fraction ink easily forms highly electrically conductive lines for printed electronics.
Palladium nanoparticles supported on organofunctionalized kaolin as an efficient heterogeneous catalyst for directed C–H functionalization of arylpyrazoles
Authors: Yang Ping , Bao Yong-Sheng
Published: November 2017

A heterogeneous catalyst system based on the immobilization of Pd0nanoparticles onto organofunctionalized kaolin is reported with a view to introducing new synthetic routes of directed C–H functionalization of arylpyrazoles.
One pot synthesis of NiMo–Al2O3 catalysts by solvent-free solid-state method for hydrodesulfurization
Authors: Yi Xiaodong , Guo Dongyun , Li Pengyun , Lian Xinyi , Xu Yingrui , Dong Yunyun , Lai Weikun , Fang Weiping
Published: November 2017

A simple and solvent-free solid-state method was used to prepare NiMo–Al2O3 hydrodesulfurization (HDS) catalysts using Ni(NO3)2·6H2O, (NH4)6Mo7O24·4H2O, and AlCl3·6H2O as the solid raw materials and polyethylene glycol (PEG) as an additive.
Chemically controlled interfacial nanoparticle assembly into nanoporous gold films for electrochemical applications
Authors: Christiansen Mikkel U.-B. , Seselj Nedjeljko , Engelbrekt Christian , Wagner Michal , Stappen Frederick N. , Zhang Jingdong
Published: November 2017

Nanoporous gold (NPG) is an effective material for electrocatalysis and can be made by self-assembly of gold nanoparticles at liquid–air interface.
Recent progress in upconversion luminescence nanomaterials for biomedical applications
Authors: Duan Chengchen , Liang Liuen , Li Li , Zhang Run , Xu Zhi Ping
Published: November 2017

This review focuses on the biomedical applications of upconversion luminescence nanomaterials, including lanthanide-doped inorganic nanocrystals and TTA-based UCNPs.
Spectroscopic, electronic and computational properties of a mixed tetrachalcogenafulvalene and its charge transfer complex
Authors: Walwyn Robert J. , Chan Bun , Usov Pavel M. , Solomon Marcello B. , Duyker Samuel G. , Koo Jin Young , Kawano Masaki , Turner Peter , Kepert Cameron J. , D'Alessandro Deanna M.
Published: November 2017

The unexplored electron donor molecule triselenathiafulvalene (TSTF) and its corresponding charge transfer complex with the well-known electron acceptor TCNQ exhibit rich electronic, optical and semiconducting properties.
Enhanced performances of planar heterojunction organic light-emitting diodes via diluting an n-type transporter into a carbazole-based matrix
Authors: Chen Dongcheng , Li Binbin , Gan Lin , Cai Xinyi , Ma Yuguang , Cao Yong , Su Shi-Jian
Published: November 2017

Planar heterojunction OLEDs with emission originating from layer-to-layer charge transfer were demonstrated with reduced efficiency roll-off and peak current/power/external quantum efficiencies of 41 cd A−1, 53.7 lm W−1 and 12.6%, respectively.
Improved electrochromic device performance from silver grid on flexible transparent conducting electrode prepared by electrohydrodynamic jet printing
Authors: Lee Jieun , Lee Youngwoo , Ahn Jinhyeok , Kim Jihoon , Yoon Sukeun , Kim Young Seok , Cho Kuk Young
Published: November 2017

Silver grid printed on ITO film through EHD jet printing as a transparent conducting electrode improves electrochromic performances of soft ECDs.
TRAIL reduces impaired glucose tolerance and NAFLD in the high-fat diet fed mouse
Authors: Bernardi Stella , Toffoli Barbara , Tisato Veronica , Bossi Fleur , Biffi Stefania , Lorenzon Andrea , Zauli Giorgio , Secchiero Paola , Fabris Bruno
Published: November 2017

Recent studies suggest that a circulating protein called TRAIL (TNF-related apoptosis inducing ligand) may have an important role in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It has been shown that TRAIL deficiency worsens diabetes and that TRAIL delivery, when it is given before disease onset, slows down its development. The present study aimed at evaluating whether TRAIL had the potential not only to prevent, but also to treat type 2 diabetes. Thirty male C57BL/6J mice were randomized to a standard or a high-fat diet (HFD). After 4 weeks of HFD, mice were further randomized to receive either placebo or TRAIL, which was delivered weekly for 8 weeks. Body weight, food intake, fasting glucose, and insulin were measured at baseline and every 4 weeks. Tolerance tests were performed before drug randomization and at the end of the study. Tissues were collected for further analyses. Parallel in vitro studies were conducted on HepG2 cells and mouse primary hepatocytes. TRAIL significantly reduced body weight, adipocyte hypertrophy, free fatty acid levels, and inflammation. Moreover, it significantly improved impaired glucose tolerance, and ameliorated non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). TRAIL treatment reduced liver fat content by 47% in vivo as well as by 45% in HepG2 cells and by 39% in primary hepatocytes. This was associated with a significant increase in liver peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) γ (PPARγ) co-activator-1 α (PGC-1α) expression both in vivo and in vitro, pointing to a direct protective effect of TRAIL on the liver. The present study confirms the ability of TRAIL to significantly attenuate diet-induced metabolic abnormalities, and it shows for the first time that TRAIL is effective also when administered after disease onset. In addition, our data shed light on TRAIL therapeutic potential not only against impaired glucose tolerance, but also against NAFLD.
Criteria influencing the selection and design of HV and UHV DC cables in new network applications
Authors: Montanari Gian Carlo , Morshuis Peter H.F. , Zhou Mingyu , Stevens Gary C. , Vaughan Alun S. , Han Zhengyi , Li Duo
Published: November 2017

This study sets out to discuss the challenges that need to be addressed effectively to facilitate the adoption of long distance high‐voltage and ultra‐high‐voltage direct current (UHVDC) power transmission cables. As in the alternating current case, the desire to minimise the losses has involved the use of increasingly high transmission voltages, which presents particular problems where UHVDC cables are concerned. Specifically, this study presents the case for a novel, integrated approach to the problem, which links three distinct aspects of the problem, namely: (i) cable ratings and network operability; (ii) cable design and constituent insulating material requirements; and (iii) potential strategies for the design of novel insulation materials, where the required properties are actively ‘designed in’. The study concludes that the impact of these factors acting in concert on network operation/performance requires a more integrated approach to the problem than has traditionally been the case. A number of complementary strategies for the development of novel material technologies and UHVDC cable designs are required that can meet the service performance and ultimate service lifetimes expected for new network applications.