bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimizing Visits to the Site of Death for Bereaved Families After Disasters and Terrorist Events
Authors: Kristensen Pål , Dyregrov Atle , Weisæth Lars , Straume Marianne , Dyregrov Kari , Heir Trond , Bugge Renate Grønvold
Published: September 2017

In recent years it has been common after disasters and terrorist events to offer bereaved families the opportunity to visit the place where their loved ones died. Many report that such visits are beneficial in processing their loss. Various factors, both cognitive (eg, counteracting disbelief) and existential or emotional (eg, achieving a sense of closeness to the deceased), are associated with the experienced benefit. Nonetheless, exacerbations of trauma and grief reactions (eg, re-enactment fantasies) are common, with some of the bereaved also reporting adverse reactions after the visit. Subsequently, proper preparations are a prerequisite before such visits take place. This article describes how to optimize collective visits to the site of death after disasters or terrorist events for bereaved families. Important questions—for example, concerning those who should be responsible for organizing a visit and those who should be invited, the timing of the visit, what can be done at the site, the need for support personnel, and other practical issues—are discussed and general guidelines are recommended. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2018;12:523–527)
Citizenship and Learning Disabled People: The Mental Health Charity MIND’s 1970s Campaign in Historical Context
Authors: Toms Jonathan
Published: September 2017

Current policy and practice directed towards people with learning disabilities originates in the deinstitutionalisation processes, civil rights concerns and integrationist philosophies of the 1970s and 1980s. However, historians know little about the specific contexts within which these were mobilised. Although it is rarely acknowledged in the secondary literature, MIND was prominent in campaigning for rights-based services for learning disabled people during this time. This article sets MIND’s campaign within the wider historical context of the organisation’s origins as a main institution of the inter-war mental hygiene movement. The article begins by outlining the mental hygiene movement’s original conceptualisation of ‘mental deficiency’ as the antithesis of the self-sustaining and responsible individuals that it considered the basis of citizenship and mental health. It then traces how this equation became unravelled, in part by the altered conditions under the post-war Welfare State, in part by the mental hygiene movement’s own theorising. The final section describes the reconceptualisation of citizenship that eventually emerged with the collapse of the mental hygiene movement and the emergence of MIND. It shows that representations of MIND’s rights-based campaigning (which have, in any case, focused on mental illness) as individualist, and fundamentally opposed to medicine and psychiatry, are inaccurate. In fact, MIND sought a comprehensive community-based service, integrated with the general health and welfare services and oriented around a reconstruction of learning disabled people’s citizenship rights.
Dietaryl-arginine inhibits intestinalClostridium perfringenscolonisation and attenuates intestinal mucosal injury in broiler chickens
Authors: Zhang Beibei , Lv Zengpeng , Li Huixian , Guo Shuangshuang , Liu Dan , Guo Yuming
Published: September 2017

We investigated the effects of dietaryl-arginine level and feeding duration on the intestinal damage of broilers induced byClostridium perfringens(CP)in vivo, and the antimicrobial effect of its metabolite nitric oxide (NO)in vitro. Thein vivoexperiment was designed as a factorial arrangement of three dietary treatments×two challenge statuses. Broilers were fed a basal diet (CON) or a high-arginine diet (ARG) containing 1·87 %l-arginine, or CON for the first 8 d and ARG from days 9 to 28 (CON/ARG). Birds were co-infected with or withoutEimeriaand CP (EM/CP). EM/CP challenge led to intestinal injury, as evidenced by lower plasmad-xylose concentration (P<0·01), higher paracellular permeability in the ileum (P<0·05) and higher numbers ofEscherichia coli(P<0·05) and CP (P<0·001) in caecal digesta; however, this situation could be alleviated byl-arginine supplementation (P<0·05). The intestinalclaudin-1andoccludinmRNA expression levels were decreased (P<0·05) following EM/CP challenge; this was reversed byl-arginine supplementation (P<0·05). Moreover, EM/CP challenge up-regulated (P<0·05)claudin-2, interferon-γ (IFN-γ), toll-like receptor 2 and nucleotide-binding oligomerisation domain 1 (NOD1) mRNA expression, andl-arginine supplementation elevated (P<0·05)IFN-γ,IL-10andNOD1mRNA expression.In vitrostudy showed that NO had bacteriostatic activity against CP (P<0·001). In conclusion,l-arginine supplementation could inhibit CP overgrowth and alleviate intestinal mucosal injury by modulating innate immune responses, enhancing barrier function and producing NO.
Quantitative and qualitative analysis of sea bream,Sparus aurata(L.), humoral immune response, vaccinated with commercial and experimental vaccines against vibriosis and photobacteriosis
Authors: Bakopoulos Vasileios , Kosma Ioanna , Laspa Evita
Published: September 2017

The specific humoral immune response of sea bream,Sparus aurata(L.), againstVibrio anguillarumO1 andPhotobacterium damselaesubsp.piscicida(Phdp) after immunization with commercial and experimental bacterins was analysed quantitatively and qualitatively. Specific anti-V. anguillarumO1 and anti-Phdp levels provoked by the adjuvanted commercial vaccine reached higher levels in comparison to the aqueous commercial and experimental bacterins. Infection of vaccinated fish withV. anguillarumO1 bacterial cells acted as a boost of the humoral immune response, except for the sera of the group vaccinated with the adjuvanted vaccine. Infection with Phdp acted as a boost of the humoral immune response mainly for the group vaccinated with a monovalent Phdp bacterin and to a lesser degree for the group vaccinated with the aqueous commercial vaccine. Western blot analysis of the sera againstV. anguillarumO1 whole cell antigens revealed strong reactions to only a few antigens below 54 kD and above 15 kD and weak reactions to other antigens. Similar reactions were observed from the sera isolated from the controls. Western blot analysis of the sera against Phdp whole cell antigens revealed strong reactions to only a handful of antigens below 20.7 and below 6.4 kD. Sera from the control group, as in the case ofV. anguillarumO1, reacted with Phdp whole cell antigens. No differences regarding antigen reactions between monovalent and bivalent formulations were noted, in contrast to the adjuvanted and aqueous bacterins.
A novel shock tube with a laser–plasma driver
Authors: Kai Y. , Garen W. , Schlegel T. , Teubner U.
Published: September 2017

A novel method to generate shock waves in small tubes is demonstrated. A femtosecond laser is applied to generate an optical breakdown an aluminum film as target. Due to the sudden appearance of this non-equilibrium state of the target, a shock wave is induced. The shock wave is further driven by the expanding high-pressure plasma (up to 10 Mbar), which serves as a quasi-piston, until the plasma recombines. The shock wave then propagates further into a glass capillary (different square capillaries with hydraulic diameter D down to 50 µm are applied). Shock wave propagation is investigated by laser interferometry. Although the plasma is an unsteady driver, due to the geometrical confinement of the capillaries, rather strong micro shocks can still propagate as far as 35 times D. In addition to the experiments, the initial conditions of this novel method are investigated by hydrocode simulations using MULTI-fs.
EPA Fuel Economy Standards Review Draws Criticism and Applause
Authors: Showstack Randy
Published: September 2017

At a public hearing last week, EPA heard testimony about its decision earlier this year to review vehicle emissions standards finalized by the Obama administration in its waning days.
An autism spectrum disorder-related de novo mutation hotspot discovered in the GEF1 domain of Trio
Authors: Sadybekov Anastasiia , Tian Chen , Arnesano Cosimo , Katritch Vsevolod , Herring Bruce E.
Published: September 2017

The Rho guanine nucleotide exchange factor (RhoGEF) Trio promotes actin polymerization by directly activating the small GTPase Rac1. Recent studies suggest that autism spectrum disorder (ASD)-related behavioral phenotypes in animal models of ASD can be produced by dysregulation of Rac1’s control of actin polymerization at glutamatergic synapses. Here, in humans, we discover a large cluster of ASD-related de novo mutations in Trio’s Rac1 activating domain, GEF1. Our study reveals that these mutations produce either hypofunctional or hyperfunctional forms of Trio in rodent neurons in vitro. In accordance with pathological increases or decreases in glutamatergic neurotransmission observed in animal models of ASD, we find that these mutations result in either reduced synaptic AMPA receptor expression or enhanced glutamatergic synaptogenesis. Together, our findings implicate both excessive and reduced Trio activity and the resulting synaptic dysfunction in ASD-related pathogenesis, and point to the Trio-Rac1 pathway at glutamatergic synapses as a possible key point of convergence of many ASD-related genes.
Polymorphisms in MICA, but not in DEPDC5, HCP5 or PNPLA3, are associated with chronic hepatitis C-related hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Hai Hoang , Tamori Akihiro , Thuy Le Thi Thanh , Yoshida Kanako , Hagihara Atsushi , Kawamura Etsushi , Uchida-Kobayashi Sawako , Morikawa Hiroyasu , Enomoto Masaru , Murakami Yoshiki , Kawada Norifumi
Published: September 2017

Recently, the MICA rs2596542 and DEPDC5 rs1012068 variants in Japanese individuals as well as the HCP5 rs2244546 and PNPLA3 rs738409 variants in European individuals have been found associated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The present study determined which single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) is the most predictive for developing hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related HCC in a Japanese cohort. Of the 4 SNPs analysed, only the MICA genotypes were significantly associated with development of HCC (p = 0.0185). The major (MA), hetero (HE), and minor (MI) genotypes occurred in 40%, 41%, and 19% of HCC patients and in 43%, 47%, and 10% of non-HCC patients, respectively. Interestingly, the MICA genotype was significantly correlated with MICA mRNA and soluble protein levels. In patients older than 70 years, the MI genotype was significantly associated with HCC development. In addition, the MI genotype was related to HCC development when the platelet count range was 10–15 × 104/μL, corresponding with the fibrosis stage; but not when the range was less than 10, indicating advanced fibrosis; or greater than 15 × 104/μL, as mild fibrosis. Thus, polymorphisms in MICA, but not in DEPDC5, HCP5 or PNPLA3, are associated with HCC development in Japanese patients with chronic HCV infection.
A ring-polymer model shows how macromolecular crowding controls chromosome-arm organization in Escherichia coli
Authors: Jeon Chanil , Jung Youngkyun , Ha Bae-Yeun
Published: September 2017

Macromolecular crowding influences various cellular processes such as macromolecular association and transcription, and is a key determinant of chromosome organization in bacteria. The entropy of crowders favors compaction of long chain molecules such as chromosomes. To what extent is the circular bacterial chromosome, often viewed as consisting of “two arms”, organized entropically by crowding? Using computer simulations, we examine how a ring polymer is organized in a crowded and cylindrically-confined space, as a coarse-grained bacterial chromosome. Our results suggest that in a wide parameter range of biological relevance crowding is essential for separating the two arms in the way observed with Escherichia coli chromosomes at fast-growth rates, in addition to maintaining the chromosome in an organized collapsed state. Under different conditions, however, the ring polymer is centrally condensed or adsorbed onto the cylindrical wall with the two arms laterally collapsed onto each other. We discuss the relevance of our results to chromosome-membrane interactions.
The histone deacetylase SIRT6 blocks myostatin expression and development of muscle atrophy
Authors: Samant Sadhana A. , Kanwal Abhinav , Pillai Vinodkumar B. , Bao Riyue , Gupta Mahesh P.
Published: September 2017

Muscle wasting, also known as cachexia, is associated with many chronic diseases, which worsens prognosis of primary illness leading to enhanced mortality. Molecular basis of this metabolic syndrome is not yet completely understood. SIRT6 is a chromatin-bound member of the sirtuin family, implicated in regulating many cellular processes, ranging from metabolism, DNA repair to aging. SIRT6 knockout (SIRT6-KO) mice display loss of muscle, fat and bone density, typical characteristics of cachexia. Here we report that SIRT6 depletion in cardiac as well as skeletal muscle cells promotes myostatin (Mstn) expression. We also observed upregulation of other factors implicated in muscle atrophy, such as angiotensin-II, activin and Acvr2b, in SIRT6 depleted cells. SIRT6-KO mice showed degenerated skeletal muscle phenotype with significant fibrosis, an effect consistent with increased levels of Mstn. Additionally, we observed that in an in vivo model of cancer cachexia, Mstn expression coupled with downregulation of SIRT6. Furthermore, SIRT6 overexpression downregulated the cytokine (TNFα-IFNγ)-induced Mstn expression in C2C12 cells, and promoted myogenesis. From the ChIP assay, we found that SIRT6 controls Mstn expression by attenuating NF-κB binding to the Mstn promoter. Together, these data suggest a novel role for SIRT6 in maintaining muscle mass by controlling expression of atrophic factors like Mstn and activin.
Highly Enhanced TMR Ratio and Δ for Double MgO-based p-MTJ Spin-Valves with Top Co2Fe6B2 Free Layer by Nanoscale-thick Iron Diffusion-barrier
Authors: Lee Seung-Eun , Baek Jong-Ung , Park Jea-Gun
Published: September 2017

For double MgO-based p-MTJ spin-valves with a top Co2Fe6B2 free layer ex-situ annealed at 400 °C, the insertion of a nanoscale-thickness Fe diffusion barrier between the tungsten (W) capping layer and MgO capping layer improved the face-centered-cubic (f.c.c.) crystallinity of both the MgO capping layer and tunneling barrier by dramatically reducing diffusion of W atoms from the W capping layer into the MgO capping layer and tunneling barrier, thereby enhancing the TMR ratio and thermal stability (Δ). In particular, the TMR ratio was extremely sensitive to the thickness of the Fe barrier; it peaked (154%) at about 0.3 nm (the thickness of only two atomic Fe layers). The effect of the diffusion barrier originated from interface strain.
Detection of clinically relevant copy number alterations in oral cancer progression using multiplexed droplet digital PCR
Authors: Hughesman Curtis B. , Lu X. J. David , Liu Kelly Y. P. , Zhu Yuqi , Towle Rebecca M. , Haynes Charles , Poh Catherine F.
Published: September 2017

Copy number alterations (CNAs), a common genomic event during carcinogenesis, are known to affect a large fraction of the genome. Common recurrent gains or losses of specific chromosomal regions occur at frequencies that they may be considered distinctive features of tumoral cells. Here we introduce a novel multiplexed droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) assay capable of detecting recurrent CNAs that drive tumorigenesis of oral squamous cell carcinoma. Applied to DNA extracted from oral cell lines and clinical samples of various disease stages, we found good agreement between CNAs detected by our ddPCR assay with those previously reported using comparative genomic hybridization or single nucleotide polymorphism arrays. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the ability to target specific locations of the genome permits detection of clinically relevant oncogenic events such as small, submicroscopic homozygous deletions. Additional capabilities of the multiplexed ddPCR assay include the ability to infer ploidy level, quantify the change in copy number of target loci with high-level gains, and simultaneously assess the status and viral load for high-risk human papillomavirus types 16 and 18. This novel multiplexed ddPCR assay therefore may have clinical value in differentiating between benign oral lesions from those that are at risk of progressing to oral cancer.
Recyclable Polydimethylsiloxane Network Crosslinked by Dynamic Transesterification Reaction
Authors: Zhang Huan , Cai Chao , Liu Wenxing , Li Dongdong , Zhang Jiawei , Zhao Ning , Xu Jian
Published: September 2017

This article reports preparation of a crosslinked polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) network via dynamic transesterification reaction between PDMS-diglycidyl ether and pripol 1017 with Zn(OAc)2 as the catalyst. The thermal dynamic nature of the network was investigated by the creep-recovery and stress-relaxation tests. The synthesized PDMS elastomer showed excellent solvent resistance even under high temperature, and could be reprocessed by hot pressing at 180 °C with the mechanical properties maintained after 10 cycles. Application of the PDMS elastomer in constructing micro-patterned stamps repeatedly has been demonstrated. The high plastic temperature and good solvent resistance distinguish the research from other reported thermoplastic PDMS elastomers and broaden the practical application areas.
Dually functioned core-shell NaYF4:Er3+/Yb3+@NaYF4:Tm3+/Yb3+ nanoparticles as nano-calorifiers and nano-thermometers for advanced photothermal therapy
Authors: Zhang Yanqiu , Chen Baojiu , Xu Sai , Li Xiangping , Zhang Jinsu , Sun Jiashi , Zheng Hui , Tong Lili , Sui Guozhu , Zhong Hua , Xia Haiping , Hua Ruinian
Published: September 2017

To realize photothermal therapy (PTT) of cancer/tumor both the photothermal conversion and temperature detection are required. Usually, the temperature detection in PTT needs complicated instruments, and the therapy process is out of temperature control in the present investigations. In this work, we attempt to develop a novel material for achieving both the photothermal conversion and temperature sensing and control at the same time. To this end, a core-shell structure with NaYF4:Er3+/Yb3+ core for temperature detection and NaYF4:Tm3+/Yb3+ shell for photothermal conversion was designed and prepared. The crystal structure and morphology of the samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Furthermore, the temperature sensing properties for the NaYF4:Er3+/Yb3+ and core-shell NaYF4:Er3+/Yb3+@NaYF4:Tm3+/Yb3+ nanoparticles were studied. It was found that the temperature sensing performance of the core-shell nanoparticles did not become worse due to coating of NaYF4:Tm3+/Yb3+ shell. The photothermal conversion behaviors were examined in cyclohexane solution based on the temperature response, the NaYF4:Er3+/Yb3+@NaYF4:Tm3+/Yb3+ core-shell nanoparticles exhibited more effective photothermal conversion than that of NaYF4:Er3+/Yb3+ nanoparticles, and a net temperature increment of about 7 °C was achieved by using the core-shell nanoparticles.
Immortalized N/TERT keratinocytes as an alternative cell source in 3D human epidermal models
Authors: Smits Jos P. H. , Niehues Hanna , Rikken Gijs , van Vlijmen-Willems Ivonne M. J. J. , van de Zande Guillaume W. H. J. F. , Zeeuwen Patrick L. J. M. , Schalkwijk Joost , van den Bogaard Ellen H.
Published: September 2017

The strong societal urge to reduce the use of experimental animals, and the biological differences between rodent and human skin, have led to the development of alternative models for healthy and diseased human skin. However, the limited availability of primary keratinocytes to generate such models hampers large-scale implementation of skin models in biomedical, toxicological, and pharmaceutical research. Immortalized cell lines may overcome these issues, however, few immortalized human keratinocyte cell lines are available and most do not form a fully stratified epithelium. In this study we compared two immortalized keratinocyte cell lines (N/TERT1, N/TERT2G) to human primary keratinocytes based on epidermal differentiation, response to inflammatory mediators, and the development of normal and inflammatory human epidermal equivalents (HEEs). Stratum corneum permeability, epidermal morphology, and expression of epidermal differentiation and host defence genes and proteins in N/TERT-HEE cultures was similar to that of primary human keratinocytes. We successfully generated N/TERT-HEEs with psoriasis or atopic dermatitis features and validated these models for drug-screening purposes. We conclude that the N/TERT keratinocyte cell lines are useful substitutes for primary human keratinocytes thereby providing a biologically relevant, unlimited cell source for in vitro studies on epidermal biology, inflammatory skin disease pathogenesis and therapeutics.
AlN/GaN Digital Alloy for Mid- and Deep-Ultraviolet Optoelectronics
Authors: Sun Wei , Tan Chee-Keong , Tansu Nelson
Published: September 2017

The AlN/GaN digital alloy (DA) is a superlattice-like nanostructure formed by stacking ultra-thin ( ≤ 4 monolayers) AlN barriers and GaN wells periodically. Here we performed a comprehensive study on the electronics and optoelectronics properties of the AlN/GaN DA for mid- and deep-ultraviolet (UV) applications. Our numerical analysis indicates significant miniband engineering in the AlN/GaN DA by tuning the thicknesses of AlN barriers and GaN wells, so that the effective energy gap can be engineered from ~3.97 eV to ~5.24 eV. The band structure calculation also shows that the valence subbands of the AlN/GaN DA is properly rearranged leading to the heavy-hole (HH) miniband being the top valence subband, which results in the desired transverse-electric polarized emission. Furthermore, our study reveals that the electron-hole wavefunction overlaps in the AlN/GaN DA structure can be remarkably enhanced up to 97% showing the great potential of improving the internal quantum efficiency for mid- and deep-UV device application. In addition, the optical absorption properties of the AlN/GaN DA are analyzed with wide spectral coverage and spectral tunability in mid- and deep-UV regime. Our findings suggest the potential of implementing the AlN/GaN DA as a promising active region design for high efficiency mid- and deep-UV device applications.
Fast and slow transient charging of Oxide Semiconductor Transistors
Authors: Kim Taeho , Park Sungho , Jeon Sanghun
Published: September 2017

The comprehension of the governing mechanism which affects device instability is one of the most important requirements for the formation of reliable oxide-thin film transistors (TFTs). However, a quantitative analysis of the dominant mechanism of device instability, which stems from charge trapping induced by defects at the oxide semiconductor interface as well as in its bulk, has not yet been systematically performed. In this study, we examined subgap states, charge-transport dynamics, and various trap characteristics of oxide TFTs by multi-frequency C–V, pulse I–V, and transient current methods to achieve a comprehensive understanding of carrier transport and charge trapping mechanisms. We found that the charge trapping behavior of the tested amorphous InHfZnO (a-IHZO) TFT follows a multi-trapping mechanism, such as temperature-independent fast transient charge trapping by resonant drift of the injected electron and temperature-dependent slow transient charge trapping by charge transport from occupied to unoccupied traps. Understanding fast charging and slow charging described in this study can help to understand the root cause of device instability of oxide TFTs and ultimately improve stability and reliability characteristics.
Phase-Retrieved Tomography enables Mesoscopic imaging of Opaque Tumor Spheroids
Authors: Ancora Daniele , Di Battista Diego , Giasafaki Georgia , Psycharakis Stylianos E. , Liapis Evangelos , Ripoll Jorge , Zacharakis Giannis
Published: September 2017

We present a new Phase-Retrieved Tomography (PRT) method to radically improve mesoscopic imaging at regimes beyond one transport mean-free-path and achieve high resolution, uniformly throughout the volume of opaque samples. The method exploits multi-view acquisition in a hybrid Selective Plane Illumination Microscope (SPIM) and Optical Projection Tomography (OPT) setup and a three-dimensional Gerchberg-Saxton phase-retrieval algorithm applied in 3D through the autocorrelation sinogram. We have successfully applied this innovative protocol to image optically dense 3D cell cultures in the form of tumor spheroids, highly versatile models to study cancer behavior and response to chemotherapy. We have thus achieved a significant improvement of resolution in depths not yet accessible with the currently used methods in SPIM/OPT, while overcoming all registration and alignment problems inherent to these techniques.
RecA-SSB Interaction Modulates RecA Nucleoprotein Filament Formation on SSB-Wrapped DNA
Authors: Wu Hung-Yi , Lu Chih-Hao , Li Hung-Wen
Published: September 2017

E. coli RecA recombinase catalyzes the homology pairing and strand exchange reactions in homologous recombinational repair. RecA must compete with single-stranded DNA binding proteins (SSB) for single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) substrates to form RecA nucleoprotein filaments, as the first step of this repair process. It has been suggested that RecA filaments assemble mainly by binding and extending onto the free ssDNA region not covered by SSB, or are assisted by mediators. Using the tethered particle motion (TPM) technique, we monitored individual RecA filament assembly on SSB-wrapped ssDNA in real-time. Nucleation times of the RecA E38K nucleoprotein filament assembly showed no apparent dependence among DNA substrates with various ssDNA gap lengths (from 60 to 100 nucleotides) wrapped by one SSB in the (SSB)65 binding mode. Our data have shown an unexpected RecA filament assembly mechanism in which a RecA-SSB-ssDNA interaction exists. Four additional pieces of evidence support our claim: the nucleation times of the RecA assembly varied (1) when DNA substrates contained different numbers of bound SSB tetramers; (2) when the SSB wrapping mode conversion is induced; (3) when SSB C-terminus truncation mutants are used; and (4) when an excess of C-terminal peptide of SSB is present. Thus, a RecA-SSB interaction should be included in discussing RecA regulatory mechanism.
Efficient and controlled domain wall nucleation for magnetic shift registers
Authors: Alejos Oscar , Raposo Víctor , Sanchez-Tejerina Luis , Martinez Eduardo
Published: September 2017

Ultrathin ferromagnetic strips with high perpendicular anisotropy have been proposed for the development of memory devices where the information is coded in tiny domains separated by domain walls. The design of practical devices requires creating, manipulating and detecting domain walls in ferromagnetic strips. Recent observations have shown highly efficient current-driven domain wall dynamics in multilayers lacking structural symmetry, where the walls adopt a chiral structure and can be driven at high velocities. However, putting such a device into practice requires the continuous and synchronous injection of domain walls as the first step. Here, we propose and demonstrate an efficient and simple scheme for nucleating domain walls using the symmetry of the spin orbit torques. Trains of short sub-nanosecond current pulses are injected in a double bit line to generate a localized longitudinal Oersted field in the ferromagnetic strip. Simultaneously, other current pulses are injected through the heavy metal under the ferromagnetic strip. Notably, the Slonczewski-like spin orbit torque assisted by the Oersted field allows the controlled injection of a series of domain walls, giving rise to a controlled manner for writing binary information and, consequently, to the design of a simple and efficient domain wall shift register.
Genome characterization of two bile-isolated Vibrio fluvialis strains: an insight into pathogenicity and bile salt adaption
Authors: Zheng Beiwen , Jiang Xiawei , Cheng Hong , Guo Lihua , Zhang Jing , Xu Hao , Yu Xiao , Huang Chen , Ji Jinru , Ying Chaoqun , Feng Youjun , Xiao Yonghong , Li Lanjuan
Published: September 2017

Vibrio fluvialis is recognized as an emerging pathogen. However, not much is known about the mechanism of its pathogenesis, and its adaptation to a special niche such as the gall bladder. Here we describe two V. fluvialis strains that cause acute cholecystitis. It is noteworthy that both strains were susceptible to all antibiotics tested, which is in contrast to previous studies, suggesting substantial genetic diversity among V. fluvialis isolates. In agreement with their survival and growth in the gall bladder, the genomes of strains 12605 and 3663 contain a considerable number of genes that confer resistance to bile, including toxR, ompU, tolC, cmeABC, rlpB, yrbK, rpoS, damX and gltK. Furthermore, integrative and conjugative elements (ICEs), virulence factors and prophage regions were also detected in strains 12605 and 3663, reflecting their flexibility in recombination during the evolution of pathogenicity. Comparative analysis of nine available genomes of V. fluvialis revealed a core genome consisting of 3,147 genes. Our results highlight the association of V. fluvialis with a rare disease profile and shed light on the evolution of pathogenesis and niche adaptation of V. fluvialis.
The phosphorylation of a kinetochore protein Dam1 by Aurora B/Ipl1 kinase promotes chromosome bipolar attachment in yeast
Authors: Jin Fengzhi , Bokros Michael , Wang Yanchang
Published: September 2017

The interaction between chromosomes and spindle microtubules is essential for chromosome segregation. The kinetochore complex mediates this interaction. Previous studies indicate that the stability of kinetochore attachment is regulated by Aurora B/Ipl1 kinase and this regulation is conserved from yeast to mammalian cells. In budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the ten-subunit Dam1/DASH complex bridges the interaction between kinetochores and microtubules, and some in vitro evidence indicates that the phosphorylation of Dam1 protein by Ipl1 kinase destabilizes this interaction. However, it is not clear if Dam1 phosphorylation is sufficient to regulate the stability of kinetochore attachment in vivo. Also, the significance of this regulation in response to chromosome detachment has not been fully investigated. Here we report that phospho-deficient dam1-3A mutants show stabilized kinetochore-microtubule attachment in vivo. This significantly delays the establishment of chromosome bipolar attachment after the disruption of kinetochore-microtubule interaction by a microtubule depolymerizing drug nocodazole. Moreover, dam1-3A cells show dramatic chromosome mis-segregation after treatment with nocodazole, presumably due to the combination of compromised bipolar attachment and premature spindle assembly checkpoint silencing in the mutant cells. Therefore, the regulation of Dam1 phosphorylation imposed by Ipl1 kinase is critical for faithful chromosome segregation.
Effects of anti-epileptic drugs on spreading depolarization-induced epileptiform activity in mouse hippocampal slices
Authors: Lin Ching-Huei , Hsu Shih-Pin , Cheng Ting-Chun , Huang Chin-Wei , Chiang Yao-Chang , Hsiao I-Han , Lee Ming-Hsueh , Shen Mei-Lin , Wu Dong Chuan , Zhou Ning
Published: September 2017

Epilepsy and spreading depolarization (SD) are both episodic brain disorders and often exist together in the same individual. In CA1 pyramidal neurons of mouse hippocampal slices, induction of SD evoked epileptiform activities, including the ictal-like bursts, which occurred during the repolarizing phase of SD, and the subsequent generation of paroxysmal depolarization shifts (PDSs), which are characterized by mild depolarization plateau with overriding spikes. The duration of the ictal-like activity was correlated with both the recovery time and the depolarization potential of SD, whereas the parameters of PDSs were not significantly correlated with the parameters of SD. Moreover, we systematically evaluated the effects of multiple anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) on SD-induced epileptiform activity. Among the drugs that are known to inhibit voltage-gated sodium channels, carbamazepine, phenytoin, valproate, lamotrigine, and zonisamide reduced the frequency of PDSs and the overriding firing bursts in 20–25 min after the induction of SD. The GABA uptake inhibitor tiagabine exhibited moderate effects and partially limited the incidence of PDSs after SD. AEDs including gabapentin, levetiracetam, ethosuximide, felbamate, and vigabatrin, had no significant effect on SD-induced epileptic activity. Taken together, these results demonstrate the effects of AEDs on SD and the related epileptiform activity at the cellular level.
Drug release from core-shell PVA/silk fibroin nanoparticles fabricated by one-step electrospraying
Authors: Cao Yang , Liu Fengqiu , Chen Yuli , Yu Tao , Lou Deshuai , Guo Yuan , Li Pan , Wang Zhigang , Ran Haitao
Published: September 2017

Silk fibroin (SF), a FDA-approved natural protein, is renowned for its great biocompatibility, biodegradability, and mechanical properties. SF-based nanoparticles provide new options for drug delivery with their tunable drug loading and release properties. To take advantage of the features of carrier polymers, we present a one-step electrospraying method that combines SF, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and therapeutic drugs without an emulsion process. A distinct core-shell structure was obtained with the PVA core and silk shell after the system was properly set up. The model drug, doxorubicin, was encapsulated in the core with a greater than 90% drug encapsulation efficiency. Controllable drug release profiles were achieved by alternating the PVA/SF ratio. Although the initial burst release of the drug was minimized by the SF coating, a large number of drug molecules remained entrapped by the carrier polymers. To promote and trigger drug release on demand, low intensity focused ultrasound (US) was applied. The US was especially advantageous for accelerating the drug diffusion and release. The apoptotic activity of MDA-MB-231 cells incubated with drug-loaded nanoparticles was found to increase with time. In addition, we also observed PVA/SF nanoparticles that could elicit a drug release in response to pH.
Measuring the role of seagrasses in regulating sediment surface elevation
Authors: Potouroglou Maria , Bull James C. , Krauss Ken W. , Kennedy Hilary A. , Fusi Marco , Daffonchio Daniele , Mangora Mwita M. , Githaiga Michael N. , Diele Karen , Huxham Mark
Published: September 2017

Seagrass meadows provide numerous ecosystem services and their rapid global loss may reduce human welfare as well as ecological integrity. In common with the other ‘blue carbon’ habitats (mangroves and tidal marshes) seagrasses are thought to provide coastal defence and encourage sediment stabilisation and surface elevation. A sophisticated understanding of sediment elevation dynamics in mangroves and tidal marshes has been gained by monitoring a wide range of different sites, located in varying hydrogeomorphological conditions over long periods. In contrast, similar evidence for seagrasses is sparse; the present study is a contribution towards filling this gap. Surface elevation change pins were deployed in four locations, Scotland, Kenya, Tanzania and Saudi Arabia, in both seagrass and unvegetated control plots in the low intertidal and shallow subtidal zone. The presence of seagrass had a highly significant, positive impact on surface elevation at all sites. Combined data from the current work and the literature show an average difference of 31 mm per year in elevation rates between vegetated and unvegetated areas, which emphasizes the important contribution of seagrass in facilitating sediment surface elevation and reducing erosion. This paper presents the first multi-site study for sediment surface elevation in seagrasses in different settings and species.
Contribution of gold nanoparticles to the catalytic DNA strand displacement in leakage reduction and signal amplification
Authors: Wang Bei , Zhou Xiang , Yao Dongbao , Sun Xianbao , He Miao , Wang Xiaojing , Yin Xue , Liang Haojun
Published: September 2017

A new model using a gold nanoparticle (AuNP)–DNA system to constrain leakage and improve efficiency of catalytic toehold-mediated strand displacement reactions was outlined.
Enhanced cellular uptake and tumor penetration of nanoparticles by imprinting the “hidden” part of membrane receptors for targeted drug delivery
Authors: Peng Shan , Wang Yahua , Li Na , Li Chong
Published: September 2017

Biting deep into the target cell membrane: nanoparticles targeting the transmembrane domain by trifluoroethanol-assisted epitope imprinting.
TPZ, a bright centrosymmetric two-photon scaffold for bioimaging
Authors: Lei Zuhai , Yue Ping , Wang Xueli , Li Xinran , Li Yi , He Haihong , Luo Xiao , Meng Xiangming , Chen Jinquan , Qian Xuhong , Yang Youjun
Published: September 2017

The development of biocompatible two-photon fluorophores with a large absorption cross-section is challenging, despite the presence of theoretical guidelines.
A mechanistically-distinct approach to fluorescence visualization of singlet oxygen
Authors: Yang L. , Finney N. S.
Published: September 2017

1O2 oxidation of a non-fluorescent sulfoxide forms a fluorescent sulfone, with significant (>50-fold) increase in emission. The oxidation occurs via intramolecular oxygen atom transfer from a reactive persulfoxide intermediate. This represents a new, mechanistically-distinct approach to fluorescent 1O2 detection.
A vitamin B12 derivative catalyzed electrochemical trifluoromethylation and perfluoroalkylation of arenes and heteroarenes in organic media
Authors: Hossain Md. Jakir , Ono Toshikazu , Wakiya Kosuke , Hisaeda Yoshio
Published: September 2017

The electrochemical trifluoromethylation and perfluoroalkylation of aromatic compounds mediated by a vitamin B12 derivative as a cobalt-based catalyst has been developed.
Two-dimensional metal–organic frameworks with high oxidation states for efficient electrocatalytic urea oxidation
Authors: Zhu Dongdong , Guo Chunxian , Liu Jinlong , Wang Liang , Du Yi , Qiao Shi-Zhang
Published: September 2017

A two-dimensional metal–organic framework comprising nickel species and an organic ligand of benzenedicarboxylic acid is fabricated and explored as an electrocatalyst for urea oxidation reaction.
Fluorogenic NIR-probes based on 1,2,4,5-tetrazine substituted BF2-azadipyrromethenes
Authors: Wu Dan , O’Shea Donal F.
Published: September 2017

Near infrared fluorogenic probe with tetrazine/alkyne IEDDA cycloaddition switch on in aqueous, gel and micro fluidic systems.
Thymine cocrystals based on DNA-inspired binding motifs
Authors: Koch Elizabeth S. , McKenna Kelly A. , Kim Hyo Jung , Young Victor G. , Swift Jennifer A.
Published: September 2017

Cocrystal design through DNA-type base pairing between a nucleic acid and complementary heterocycles.
Molecular engineering solutions for therapeutic peptide delivery
Authors: Acar Handan , Ting Jeffrey M. , Srivastava Samanvaya , LaBelle James L. , Tirrell Matthew V.
Published: September 2017

This review discusses self-assembled vehicles as nanoparticles to carry and protect therapeutic peptides through their journeys in the body.
Improved dispersion of transition metals in mesoporous materials through a polymer-assisted melt infiltration method
Authors: Ciotonea C. , Dragoi B. , Ungureanu A. , Catrinescu C. , Petit S. , Alamdari H. , Marceau E. , Dumitriu E. , Royer S.
Published: September 2017

Dispersed metal particles smaller than 2 nm, thermally stable and exhibiting improved catalytic performances are produced by melt infiltration into mesoporous supports.
High-permeance metal–organic framework-based membrane adsorber for the removal of dye molecules in aqueous phase
Authors: Ting Hsiang , Chi Heng-Yu , Lam Chon Hei , Chan Kuan-Ying , Kang Dun-Yen
Published: September 2017

This paper reports on a novel membrane adsorber comprising metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) for water treatment.
Effect of organic molecular weight distribution on membrane fouling in an ultrafiltration system with ozone oxidation from the perspective of interaction energy
Authors: Tan Yiwen , Lin Tao , Chen Wei , Zhou Dongju
Published: September 2017

In this article, we have discussed the effect of MW distribution on membrane fouling and found the optimal ozone dosage via the XDLVO theory.
Mitochondria-targeted betulinic and ursolic acid derivatives: synthesis and anticancer activity
Authors: Nedopekina Darya A. , Gubaidullin Rinat R. , Odinokov Victor N. , Maximchik Polina V. , Zhivotovsky Boris , Bel'skii Yuriy P. , Khazanov Veniamin A. , Manuylova Arina V. , Gogvadze Vladimir , Spivak Anna Yu.
Published: September 2017

Conjugation of native triterpenoids, namely, betulinic and ursolic acids, with a lypophilic triphenylphosphonium cation led to the dramatic enhancement, as compared to betulinic acid, of their ability to trigger the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway in various types of cancer cells.
3D self-assembly of ultrafine molybdenum carbide confined in N-doped carbon nanosheets for efficient hydrogen production
Authors: Wang Haiqing , Xu Xiaobin , Ni Bing , Li Haoyi , Bian Wei , Wang Xun
Published: September 2017

3D hierarchical architectures assembled from ultrafine MoC nanoparticles (0D) confined in N-doped conductive carbon nanosheets (2D) exhibit remarkable electrocatalytic performance and stability for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER).
Synthesis of regioblock copolythiophene by Negishi catalyst-transfer polycondensation using tBu2Zn·2LiCl
Authors: Goto Eisuke , Ochiai Yuto , Lo Chen-Tsyr , Koganezawa Tomoyuki , Ueda Mitsuru , Higashihara Tomoya
Published: September 2017

Regioblock copolythiohenes consisting of head-to-tail poly(3-hexylthiophene) (HT-P3HT) and head-to-head/tail-to-tail P3HT (HHTT-P3HT) segments could be synthesized by Negishi catalyst-transfer polycondensation (NCTP) using tBu2Zn·2LiCl.
Marriage of phthalocyanine chemistry with lanthanides: a single-ion magnet with a blocking temperature up to 25 K
Authors: Zhang Jun-Long
Published: September 2017

A combination of rich phthalocyanine chemistry such as peripheral substitution and the unique properties of lanthanides to enhance organic radical-f interaction is expected to afford new SIMs with a higher working temperature.
Acid/hydrazide-appended covalent triazine frameworks for low-pressure CO2 capture: pre-designable or post-synthesis modification
Authors: Fu Yu , Wang Zhiqiang , Fu Xianbiao , Yan Jun , Liu Cheng , Pan Chunyue , Yu Guipeng
Published: September 2017

Pore surface engineering in nanoporous organic polymers (NOPs) targeted for their different applications remains a critical challenge.
Correction: Ionic thermoelectric paper
Authors: Jiao Fei , Naderi Ali , Zhao Dan , Schlueter Joshua , Shahi Maryam , Sundström Jonas , Granberg Hjalmar , Edberg Jesper , Ail Ujwala , Brill Joseph , Lindström Tom , Berggren Magnus , Crispin Xavier
Published: September 2017

Correction for ‘Ionic thermoelectric paper’ by Fei Jiao et al., J. Mater. Chem. A, 2017, 5, 16883–16888.
A comprehensive comparison study on the vibrational and optical properties of CVD-grown and mechanically exfoliated few-layered WS2
Authors: Liu Jin , Lo Tsz Wing , Sun Jianhui , Yip Cho Tung , Lam Chi Hang , Lei Dang Yuan
Published: September 2017

Tungsten disulfide (WS2), a typical transition metal dichalcogenide (TMDC) material, transits from an indirect to direct bandgap when the thickness is thinned to a monolayer, thereby allowing for applications in transistors, photodetectors, and electroluminescent devices.
Defect chemistry and electrical properties of BiFeO3
Authors: Schrade Matthias , Masó Nahum , Perejón Antonio , Pérez-Maqueda Luis A. , West Anthony R.
Published: September 2017

Electrical transport measurements provide insight into the defect structure of multiferroic BiFeO3.
Trz1, the long form RNase Z from yeast, forms a stable heterohexamer with endonuclease Nuc1 and mutarotase
Authors: Ma Miao , Li de la Sierra-Gallay Ines , Lazar Noureddine , Pellegrini Olivier , Lepault Jean , Condon Ciarán , Durand Dominique , van Tilbeurgh Herman
Published: September 2017

Proteomic studies have established that Trz1, Nuc1 and mutarotase form a complex in yeast. Trz1 is a β-lactamase-type RNase composed of two β-lactamase-type domains connected by a long linker that is responsible for the endonucleolytic cleavage at the 3′-end of tRNAs during the maturation process (RNase Z activity); Nuc1 is a dimeric mitochondrial nuclease involved in apoptosis, while mutarotase (encoded by YMR099C) catalyzes the conversion between the α- and β-configuration of glucose-6-phosphate. Using gel filtration, small angle X-ray scattering and electron microscopy, we demonstrated that Trz1, Nuc1 and mutarotase form a very stable heterohexamer, composed of two copies of each of the three subunits. A Nuc1 homodimer is at the center of the complex, creating a two-fold symmetry and interacting with both Trz1 and mutarotase. Enzymatic characterization of the ternary complex revealed that the activities of Trz1 and mutarotase are not affected by complex formation, but that the Nuc1 activity is completely inhibited by mutarotase and partially by Trz1. This suggests that mutarotase and Trz1 might be regulators of the Nuc1 apoptotic nuclease activity.
Geometries of vasculature bifurcation can affect the level of trophic damage during formation of a brain ischemic lesion
Authors: Nartsissov Yaroslav R.
Published: September 2017

Ischemic lesion is a common cause of various diseases in humans. Brain tissue is especially sensitive to this type of damage. A common reason for the appearance of an ischemic area is a stop in blood flow in some branch of the vasculature system. Then, a decreasing concentration gradient results in a low mean level of oxygen in surrounding tissues. After that, the biochemical ischemic cascade spreads. In this review, we examine these well-known events from a new angle. It is stressed that there is essential evidence to predict the formation of an ischemic micro-area at the base of vascular bifurcation geometries. Potential applications to improve neuroprotection are also discussed.
Structure and function of Pif1 helicase
Authors: Byrd Alicia K. , Raney Kevin D.
Published: September 2017

Pif1 family helicases have multiple roles in the maintenance of nuclear and mitochondrial DNA in eukaryotes. Saccharomyces cerevisiae Pif1 is involved in replication through barriers to replication, such as G-quadruplexes and protein blocks, and reduces genetic instability at these sites. Another Pif1 family helicase in S. cerevisiae, Rrm3, assists in fork progression through replication fork barriers at the rDNA locus and tRNA genes. ScPif1 (Saccharomyces cerevisiae Pif1) also negatively regulates telomerase, facilitates Okazaki fragment processing, and acts with polymerase δ in break-induced repair. Recent crystal structures of bacterial Pif1 helicases and the helicase domain of human PIF1 combined with several biochemical and biological studies on the activities of Pif1 helicases have increased our understanding of the function of these proteins. This review article focuses on these structures and the mechanism(s) proposed for Pif1's various activities on DNA.