bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid generation of a transgene-free powdery mildew resistant tomato by genome deletion
Authors: Nekrasov Vladimir , Wang Congmao , Win Joe , Lanz Christa , Weigel Detlef , Kamoun Sophien
Published: March 2017

Genome editing has emerged as a technology with a potential to revolutionize plant breeding. In this study, we report on generating, in less than ten months, Tomelo, a non-transgenic tomato variety resistant to the powdery mildew fungal pathogen using the CRISPR/Cas9 technology. We used whole-genome sequencing to show that Tomelo does not carry any foreign DNA sequences but only carries a deletion that is indistinguishable from naturally occurring mutations. We also present evidence for CRISPR/Cas9 being a highly precise tool, as we did not detect off-target mutations in Tomelo. Using our pipeline, mutations can be readily introduced into elite or locally adapted tomato varieties in less than a year with relatively minimal effort and investment.
A peculiar lens-shaped structure observed in the South China Sea
Authors: Lin Hongyang , Hu Jianyu , Liu Zhiyu , Belkin Igor M. , Sun Zhenyu , Zhu Jia
Published: March 2017

Lens-shaped structures within thermocline potentially play a significant role in subsurface transport of mass, heat, and salt in the global ocean. Whilst such structures have been documented in many oceanic regions, none has been observed in the China Seas. This study reports on observations of a lens-shaped structure within thermocline in the southwestern South China Sea in September 2007. This structure had a maximum thickness of approximately 60 m and a horizontal extent exceeding 220 km. This lens was peculiar in that its size is larger than most similar structures documented in the literature. The lens core was characterized by well-mixed water with higher temperature (~28.8 °C), lower salinity (~33.3) and lower potential vorticity (PV) compared to the surrounding waters. Based on an ocean reanalysis, possible generation mechanism of the lens is explored by examining the evolution of surface and subsurface thermohaline properties, and an analysis of vertical PV flux. The lens was likely generated by a mixture of the local mixed-layer water and the water from the coastal jet separation site.
Genetic polymorphisms of 54 mitochondrial DNA SNP loci in Chinese Xibe ethnic minority group
Authors: Shen Chun-Mei , Hu Li , Yang Chun-Hua , Yin Cai-Yong , Li Zhi-Dan , Meng Hao-Tian , Guo Yu-Xin , Mei Ting , Chen Feng , Zhu Bo-Feng
Published: March 2017

We analyzed the genetic polymorphisms of 54 mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variants in Chinese Xibe ethnic minority group. A total of 137 unrelated healthy volunteers from Chinese Xibe group were the objects of our study. Among the selected loci, there were 51 variable positions including transitions and transversions, and single nucleotide transitions were common (83.93%) versus transversions. These variations defined 64 different mtDNA haplotypes exclusive of (CA)n and 9 bp deletion variation. The haplotype diversity and discrimination power in Xibe population were 0.9800 ± 0.004 and 0.9699, respectively. Besides, we compared Xibe group with 18 other populations and reconstructed a phylogenetic tree using Neighbor-Joining method. The result revealed that Xibe group was a close to Xinjiang Han and Yanbian Korean groups. Our data also indicated that Xibe group has a close relationship with Daur and Ewenki groups, which is reflected by the history that Xibe was influenced by Daur and Ewenki groups during the development of these groups. In conclusion, the variants we studied are polymorphic and could be used as informative genetic markers for forensic and population genetic application.
The evolutionary and phylogeographic history of woolly mammoths: a comprehensive mitogenomic analysis
Authors: Chang Dan , Knapp Michael , Enk Jacob , Lippold Sebastian , Kircher Martin , Lister Adrian , MacPhee Ross D. E. , Widga Christopher , Czechowski Paul , Sommer Robert , Hodges Emily , Stümpel Nikolaus , Barnes Ian , Dalén Love , Derevianko Anatoly , Germonpré Mietje , Hillebrand-Voiculescu Alexandra , Constantin Silviu , Kuznetsova Tatyana , Mol Dick , Rathgeber Thomas , Rosendahl Wilfried , Tikhonov Alexey N. , Willerslev Eske , Hannon Greg , Lalueza-Fox Carles , Joger Ulrich , Poinar Hendrik , Hofreiter Michael , Shapiro Beth
Published: March 2017

Near the end of the Pleistocene epoch, populations of the woolly mammoth (Mammuthus primigenius) were distributed across parts of three continents, from western Europe and northern Asia through Beringia to the Atlantic seaboard of North America. Nonetheless, questions about the connectivity and temporal continuity of mammoth populations and species remain unanswered. We use a combination of targeted enrichment and high-throughput sequencing to assemble and interpret a data set of 143 mammoth mitochondrial genomes, sampled from fossils recovered from across their Holarctic range. Our dataset includes 54 previously unpublished mitochondrial genomes and significantly increases the coverage of the Eurasian range of the species. The resulting global phylogeny confirms that the Late Pleistocene mammoth population comprised three distinct mitochondrial lineages that began to diverge ~1.0–2.0 million years ago (Ma). We also find that mammoth mitochondrial lineages were strongly geographically partitioned throughout the Pleistocene. In combination, our genetic results and the pattern of morphological variation in time and space suggest that male-mediated gene flow, rather than large-scale dispersals, was important in the Pleistocene evolutionary history of mammoths.
Magnetic frustration of graphite oxide
Authors: Lee Dongwook , Seo Jiwon
Published: March 2017

Delocalized π electrons in aromatic ring structures generally induce diamagnetism. In graphite oxide, however, π electrons develop ferromagnetism due to the unique structure of the material. The π electrons are only mobile in the graphitic regions of graphite oxide, which are dispersed and surrounded by sp3-hybridized carbon atoms. The spin-glass behavior of graphite oxide is corroborated by the frequency dependence of its AC susceptibility. The magnetic susceptibility data exhibit a negative Curie temperature, field irreversibility, and slow relaxation. The overall results indicate that magnetic moments in graphite oxide slowly interact and develop magnetic frustration.
Bioactive silicon nitride: A new therapeutic material for osteoarthropathy
Authors: Pezzotti Giuseppe , Marin Elia , Adachi Tetsuya , Rondinella Alfredo , Boschetto Francesco , Zhu Wenliang , Sugano Nobuhiko , Bock Ryan M. , McEntire Bryan , Bal Sonny B.
Published: March 2017

While the reciprocity between bioceramics and living cells is complex, it is principally governed by the implant’s surface chemistry. Consequently, a deeper understanding of the chemical interactions of bioceramics with living tissue could ultimately lead to new therapeutic strategies. However, the physical and chemical principles that govern these interactions remain unclear. The intricacies of this biological synergy are explored within this paper by examining the peculiar surface chemistry of a relatively new bioceramic, silicon nitride (Si3N4). Building upon prior research, this paper aims at obtaining new insights into the biological interactions between Si3N4 and living cells, as a consequence of the off-stoichiometric chemical nature of its surface at the nanometer scale. We show here yet unveiled details of surface chemistry and, based on these new data, formulate a model on how, ultimately, Si3N4 influences cellular signal transduction functions and differentiation mechanisms. In other words, we interpret its reciprocity with living cells in chemical terms. These new findings suggest that Si3N4 might provide unique new medicinal therapies and effective remedies for various bone or joint maladies and diseases.
Robust and fast characterization of OCT-based optical attenuation using a novel frequency-domain algorithm for brain cancer detection
Authors: Yuan Wu , Kut Carmen , Liang Wenxuan , Li Xingde
Published: March 2017

Cancer is known to alter the local optical properties of tissues. The detection of OCT-based optical attenuation provides a quantitative method to efficiently differentiate cancer from non-cancer tissues. In particular, the intraoperative use of quantitative OCT is able to provide a direct visual guidance in real time for accurate identification of cancer tissues, especially these without any obvious structural layers, such as brain cancer. However, current methods are suboptimal in providing high-speed and accurate OCT attenuation mapping for intraoperative brain cancer detection. In this paper, we report a novel frequency-domain (FD) algorithm to enable robust and fast characterization of optical attenuation as derived from OCT intensity images. The performance of this FD algorithm was compared with traditional fitting methods by analyzing datasets containing images from freshly resected human brain cancer and from a silica phantom acquired by a 1310 nm swept-source OCT (SS-OCT) system. With graphics processing unit (GPU)-based CUDA C/C++ implementation, this new attenuation mapping algorithm can offer robust and accurate quantitative interpretation of OCT images in real time during brain surgery.
Scaling and functional morphology in strigiform hind limbs
Authors: Madan Meena A. , Rayfield Emily J. , Bright Jen A.
Published: March 2017

Strigiformes are an order of raptorial birds consisting exclusively of owls: the Tytonidae (barn owls) and the Strigidae (true owls), united by a suite of adaptations aiding a keen predatory lifestyle, including robust hind limb elements modified for grip strength. To assess variation in hind limb morphology, we analysed how the dimensions of the major hind limb elements in subfossil and modern species scaled with body mass. Comparing hind limb element length, midshaft width, and robusticity index (RI: ratio of midshaft width to maximum length) to body mass revealed that femoral and tibiotarsal width scale with isometry, whilst length scales with negative allometry, and close to elastic similarity in the tibiotarsus. In contrast, tarsometatarsus width shows strong positive allometry with body mass, whilst length shows strong negative allometry. Furthermore, the tarsometatarsi RI scales allometrically to mass0.028, whilst a weak relationship exists in femora (mass0.004) and tibiotarsi (mass0.004). Our results suggest that tarsometatarsi play a more substantial functional role than tibiotarsi and femora. Given the scaling relationship between tarsometatarsal width and robusticity to body mass, it may be possible to infer the body mass of prehistoric owls by analysing tarsometatarsi, an element that is frequently preserved in the fossil record of owls.
Genomic reprograming analysis of the Mesothelial to Mesenchymal Transition identifies biomarkers in peritoneal dialysis patients
Authors: Ruiz-Carpio Vicente , Sandoval Pilar , Aguilera Abelardo , Albar-Vizcaíno Patricia , Perez-Lozano María Luisa , González-Mateo Guadalupe T. , Acuña-Ruiz Adrián , García-Cantalejo Jesús , Botías Pedro , Bajo María Auxiliadora , Selgas Rafael , Sánchez-Tomero José Antonio , Passlick-Deetjen Jutta , Piecha Dorothea , Büchel Janine , Steppan Sonja , López-Cabrera Manuel
Published: March 2017

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is an effective renal replacement therapy, but a significant proportion of patients suffer PD-related complications, which limit the treatment duration. Mesothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (MMT) contributes to the PD-related peritoneal dysfunction. We analyzed the genetic reprograming of MMT to identify new biomarkers that may be tested in PD-patients. Microarray analysis revealed a partial overlapping between MMT inducedin vitroandex vivoin effluent-derived mesothelial cells, and that MMT is mainly a repression process being higher the number of genes that are down-regulated than those that are induced. Cellular morphology and number of altered genes showed that MMTex vivocould be subdivided into two stages: early/epithelioid and advanced/non-epithelioid. RT-PCR array analysis demonstrated that a number of genes differentially expressed in effluent-derived non-epithelioid cells also showed significant differential expression when comparing standard versus low-GDP PD fluids. Thrombospondin-1 (TSP1), collagen-13 (COL13), vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), and gremlin-1 (GREM1) were measured in PD effluents, and except GREM1, showed significant differences between early and advanced stages of MMT, and their expression was associated with a high peritoneal transport status. The results establish a proof of concept about the feasibility of measuring MMT-associated secreted protein levels as potential biomarkers in PD.
A Novel Point-of-Care Smartphone Based System for Monitoring the Cardiac and Respiratory Systems
Authors: Sohn Kwanghyun , Merchant Faisal M. , Sayadi Omid , Puppala Dheeraj , Doddamani Rajiv , Sahani Ashish , Singh Jagmeet P. , Heist E. Kevin , Isselbacher Eric M. , Armoundas Antonis A.
Published: March 2017

Cardio-respiratory monitoring is one of the most demanding areas in the rapidly growing, mobile-device, based health care delivery. We developed a 12-lead smartphone-based electrocardiogram (ECG) acquisition and monitoring system (called “cvrPhone”), and an application to assess underlying ischemia, and estimate the respiration rate (RR) and tidal volume (TV) from analysis of electrocardiographic (ECG) signals only. During in-vivo swine studies (n = 6), 12-lead ECG signals were recorded at baseline and following coronary artery occlusion. Ischemic indices calculated from each lead showed statistically significant (p < 0.05) increase within 2 min of occlusion compared to baseline. Following myocardial infarction, spontaneous ventricular tachycardia episodes (n = 3) were preceded by significant (p < 0.05) increase of the ischemic index ~1–4 min prior to the onset of the tachy-arrhythmias. In order to assess the respiratory status during apnea, the mechanical ventilator was paused for up to 2 min during normal breathing. We observed that the RR and TV estimation algorithms detected apnea within 7.9 ± 1.1 sec and 5.5 ± 2.2 sec, respectively, while the estimated RR and TV values were 0 breaths/min and less than 100 ml, respectively. In conclusion, the cvrPhone can be used to detect myocardial ischemia and periods of respiratory apnea using a readily available mobile platform.
Erratum: Prime factorization using quantum annealing and computational algebraic geometry
Authors: Dridi Raouf , Alghassi Hedayat
Published: March 2017

Scientific Reports 7: Article number: 43048; published online: 21 February 2017; updated: 22 March 2017. In this Article, the legend of Figure 2 is incorrect: “The column algorithm: the adjacency matrix pattern (left) and embedding into the the D-Wave 2X quantum processor (right) of the quadratic binary polynomial for M = 200099”.
Aminopeptidase N1 is involved in Bacillus thuringiensis Cry1Ac toxicity in the beet armyworm, Spodoptera exigua
Authors: Qiu Lin , Cui Songhe , Liu Lang , Zhang Boyao , Ma Weihua , Wang Xiaoping , Lei Chaoliang , Chen Lizhen
Published: March 2017

Understanding how insecticidal proteins from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) interact with their hosts is crucial to fully explain the molecular bases of Bt specificity and insecticidal activity. Previous studies support ATP binding cassette transporters (ABCC2/3) and one cadherin-like protein are Cry1Ac functional receptors in the beet armyworm (Spodoptera exigua). In this study, a combined one-dimensional gel electrophoresis and immunoblotting approach identified aminopeptidase N (APNs) as putative Cry1Ac binding proteins in the midgut brush border membrane of S. exigua larvae. Functional analyses by gene silencing of six different S. exigua APN genes (SeAPN1, SeAPN2, SeAPN3, SeAPN4, SeAPN5 and SeAPN6) showed that only suppression of SeAPN1 resulted in decreased larval susceptibility to Cry1Ac toxin. These results support that SeAPN1 plays important functional role in Cry1Ac toxicity in S. exigua.
Rassf Proteins as Modulators of Mst1 Kinase Activity
Authors: Bitra Aruna , Sistla Srinivas , Mariam Jessy , Malvi Harshada , Anand Ruchi
Published: March 2017

Rassf1A/5 tumor suppressors serve as adaptor proteins possessing a modular architecture with the C-terminal consisting of a coiled-coil SARAH (Salvador-Rassf-Hippo) domain and the central portion being composed of Ras associated (RA) domain. Here, we investigate the effect of Rassf effectors on Mst1 function by mapping the interaction of various domains of Rassf1A/5 and Mst1 kinase using surface plasmon resonance (SPR). The results revealed that apart from the C-terminal SARAH domain of Mst1 which interacts to form heterodimers with Rassf1A/5, the N-terminal kinase domain of Mst1 plays a crucial role in the stabilization of this complex. In addition, SPR experiments show that the RA domains play an important role in fine-tuning the Mst1-Rassf interaction, with Rassf5 being a preferred partner over a similar Rassf1A construct. It was also demonstrated that the activity profile of Mst1 in presence of Rassf adaptors completely switches. A Rassf-Mst1 complexed version of the kinase becomes apoptotic by positively regulating Mst1-H2B mediated serine 14 histone H2B phosphorylation, a hallmark of chromatin condensation. In contrast, the heterodimerization of Mst1 with Rassf1A/5 suppresses the phosphorylation of FoxO, thereby inhibiting the downstream Mst1-FoxO signalling pathway.
Neutron scattering observation of quasi-free rotations of water confined in carbon nanotubes
Authors: Briganti G. , Rogati G. , Parmentier A. , Maccarini M. , De Luca F.
Published: March 2017

The translational and orientational dynamics of water in carbon nanotubes has been studied by quasi-elastic neutron scattering from 300 down to 10 K. Results show that, reducing temperature below 200 K, part of this water behaves as a quasi-free rotor, that is, the orientational energy of such molecules becomes comparable to the rotational energy of water in the gas phase. This novel and unique dynamic behavior is related to the appearance of water molecules characterized by a coordination number of about two, which is promoted by sub-nanometer axial confinement. This peculiar molecular arrangement allows water to show an active rotational dynamics even at temperatures as low as 10 K. The translational mobility shows a behavior compatible with the rotational one.
Missense mutations near the N-glycosylation site of the A2 domain lead to various intracellular trafficking defects in coagulation factor VIII
Authors: Wei Wei , Zheng Chunlei , Zhu Min , Zhu Xiaofan , Yang Renchi , Misra Saurav , Zhang Bin
Published: March 2017

Missense mutation is the most common mutation type in hemophilia. However, the majority of missense mutations remain uncharacterized. Here we characterize how hemophilia mutations near the unused N-glycosylation site of the A2 domain (N582) of FVIII affect protein conformation and intracellular trafficking. N582 is located in the middle of a short 310-helical turn (D580-S584), in which most amino acids have multiple hemophilia mutations. All 14 missense mutations found in this 310-helix reduced secretion levels of the A2 domain and full-length FVIII. Secreted mutants have decreased activities relative to WT FVIII. Selected mutations also lead to partial glycosylation of N582, suggesting that rapid folding of local conformation prevents glycosylation of this site in wild-type FVIII. Protease sensitivity, stability and degradation of the A2 domain vary among mutants, and between non-glycosylated and glycosylated species of the same mutant. Most of the mutants interact with the ER chaperone BiP, while only mutants with aberrant glycosylation interact with calreticulin. Our results show that the short 310-helix from D580 to S584 is critical for proper biogenesis of the A2 domain and FVIII, and reveal a range of molecular mechanisms by which FVIII missense mutations lead to moderate to severe hemophilia A.
Inhibition of cathepsin S confers sensitivity to methyl protodioscin in oral cancer cells via activation of p38 MAPK/JNK signaling pathways
Authors: Hsieh Ming-Ju , Lin Chiao-Wen , Chen Mu-Kuan , Chien Su-Yu , Lo Yu-Sheng , Chuang Yi-Ching , Hsi Yi-Ting , Lin Chia-Chieh , Chen Jui-Chieh , Yang Shun-Fa
Published: March 2017

Oral cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world. Approximately 90% of oral cancers are subtyped to oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Despite advances in diagnostic techniques and improvement in treatment modalities, the prognosis remains poor. Therefore, an effective chemotherapy mechanism that enhances tumor sensitivity to chemotherapeutics is urgently needed. Methyl protodioscin (MP) is a furostanol bisglycoside with a wide range of beneficial effects, including anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. The aim of the present study was to determine the antitumor activity of MP on OSCC and its underlying mechanisms. Our results show that treatment of OSCC cells with MP potently inhibited cell viability. Moreover, MP leading to cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase, which subsequently activates caspase-3, -8, -9 and PARP to induce cell apoptosis. Meanwhile, we also demonstrate that MP induces a robust autophagy in OSCC cells. The results indicate cathepsin S (CTSS) is involved in MP-induced apoptosis and autophagy by modulation of p38 MAPK and JNK1/2 pathways. These findings may provide rationale to combine MP with CTSS blockade for the effective treatment of OSCC.
Actomyosin-generated tension on cadherin is similar between dividing and non-dividing epithelial cells in early Xenopus laevis embryos
Authors: Herbomel Gaëtan , Hatte Guillaume , Roul Julien , Padilla-Parra Sergi , Tassan Jean-Pierre , Tramier Marc
Published: March 2017

Epithelia represent a unique situation where polarized cells must maintain sufficiently strong cell-cell contacts to guarantee the epithelial integrity indispensable for barrier functions. Nevertheless, epithelia must also keep sufficient plasticity which is crucial during development and morphogenesis. Adherens junctions and mechanical forces produced by the actomyosin cytoskeleton are major players for epithelial integrity maintenance and plasticity regulations. To understand how the epithelium is able to meet such a challenge, it is indispensable to determine how cellular junctions and mechanical forces acting at adherens junctions are regulated. Here, we investigate the tensile forces acting on adherens junctions via cadherin during cell division in the Xenopus embryos epithelium. Using the recently developed E-cadherin FRET tension sensor and a fastFLIM prototype microscope, we were able to measure mechanical forces applied on cadherin at cell-cell junctions. We have shown that the Xenopus epithelium is under tension, approximately 3 pN which remains stable, indicating that tensile forces acting on cadherin at the adherens junction are at equilibrium. Unexpectedly, mechanical tension across cadherin was similar between dividing and non-dividing epithelial cells.
Choroidal Thickness in 3001 Chinese Children Aged 6 to 19 Years Using Swept-Source OCT
Authors: Xiong Shuyu , He Xiangui , Deng Junjie , Lv Minzhi , Jin Jiali , Sun Sifei , Yao Chunxia , Zhu Jianfeng , Zou Haidong , Xu Xun
Published: March 2017

The purpose of the cross-sectional study is to describe the values and distribution of choroidal thickness and to explore its related factors, especially age, in Chinese children. A total of 3001 Chinese school children aged 6 to 19 years underwent comprehensive ophthalmic examinations, including axial length and cycloplegic refraction. Choroidal thickness was measured by swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT). There was a greater difference in the more central regions between the myopes and emmetropes. Multiple regression analysis was performed to determine the associated factors of choroidal thickness. The results demonstrated that age was independently positively related to choroidal thickness for emmetropes (β = 3.859, p < 0.001), and mild myopes with spherical equivalent greater than −2.00 D (−1.25 D < spherical equivalent ≤ −0.50 D: β = 3.476, p = 0.006; −2.00 D < spherical equivalent ≤ −1.25 D: β = 3.232, p = 0.020). However, no significant relationship between age and choroidal thickness was found in children with spherical equivalent ≤ −2.00 D, suggesting that the protective effect of physiologic choroidal growth with age against rapid axial elongation disappeared while axial elongation becomes the dominant determinant of choroidal thickness among children with myopia worse than −2.00 D.
Adiposity in childhood brain tumors: A report from the Canadian Study of Determinants of Endometabolic Health in Children (CanDECIDE Study)
Authors: Wang Kuan-Wen , Souza Russell J. de , Fleming Adam , Singh Sheila K. , Johnston Donna L. , Zelcer Shayna M. , Rassekh Shahrad Rod , Burrow Sarah , Scheinemann Katrin , Thabane Lehana , Samaan M. Constantine
Published: March 2017

Children with brain tumors (CBT) are at high risk of cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes compared to the general population. Recently, adiposity has been reported to be more informative for cardiometabolic risk stratification than body mass index (BMI) in the general population. The goal of this study is to describe the adiposity phenotype in CBT, and to establish adiposity determinants. We recruited CBT (n = 56) and non-cancer controls (n = 106). Percent body fat (%FM), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) were measured to determine total and central adiposity, respectively. Regression analyses were used to evaluate adiposity determinants. CBT had higher total and central adiposity compared to non-cancer controls despite having similar BMI measurements. Those with tumors at the supratentorial region had increased total and central adiposity, while those who received radiotherapy had increased total adiposity. In conclusion, CBT have increased total and central adiposity in the presence of similar BMI levels when compared to non-cancer controls. Adiposity, especially central adiposity, is a potential cardiometabolic risk factor present relatively early in life in CBT. Defining interventions to target adiposity may improve long-term outcomes by preventing cardiometabolic disorders in CBT.
A novel model on time-resolved photoluminescence measurements of polar InGaN/GaN multi-quantum-well structures
Authors: Xing Yuchen , Wang Lai , Yang Di , Wang Zilan , Hao Zhibiao , Sun Changzheng , Xiong Bing , Luo Yi , Han Yanjun , Wang Jian , Li Hongtao
Published: March 2017

Based on carrier rate equation, a new model is proposed to explain the non-exponential nature of time-resolved photoluminescence (TRPL) decay curves in the polar InGaN/GaN multi-quantum-well structures. From the study of TRPL curves at different temperatures, it is found that both radiative and non-radiative recombination coefficients vary from low temperature to room temperature. The variation of the coefficients is compatible with the carrier density of states distribution as well as the carrier localization process. These results suggest that there is a novel method to calculate the internal quantum efficiency, which is a complement to the traditional one based on temperature dependent photoluminescence measurement.
The Immunosuppressant Mycophenolic Acid Alters Nucleotide and Lipid Metabolism in an Intestinal Cell Model
Authors: Heischmann Svenja , Dzieciatkowska Monika , Hansen Kirk , Leibfritz Dieter , Christians Uwe
Published: March 2017

The study objective was to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the negative effects of mycophenolic acid (MPA) on human intestinal cells. Effects of MPA exposure and guanosine supplementation on nucleotide concentrations in LS180 cells were assessed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Proteomics analysis was carried out using stable isotope labeling by amino acids in cell culture combined with gel-based liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry and lipidome analysis using 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Despite supplementation, depletion of guanosine nucleotides (p < 0.001 at 24 and 72 h; 5, 100, and 250 μM MPA) and upregulation of uridine and cytidine nucleotides (p < 0.001 at 24 h; 5 μM MPA) occurred after exposure to MPA. MPA significantly altered 35 proteins mainly related to nucleotide-dependent processes and lipid metabolism. Cross-reference with previous studies of MPA-associated protein changes widely corroborated these results, but showed differences that may be model- and/or method-dependent. MPA exposure increased intracellular concentrations of fatty acids, cholesterol, and phosphatidylcholine (p < 0.01 at 72 h; 100 μM MPA) which corresponded to the changes in lipid-metabolizing proteins. MPA affected intracellular nucleotide levels, nucleotide-dependent processes, expression of structural proteins, fatty acid and lipid metabolism in LS180 cells. These changes may compromise intestinal membrane integrity and contribute to gastrointestinal toxicity.
Quantitation of the immunodominant 33-mer peptide from α-gliadin in wheat flours by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Schalk Kathrin , Lang Christina , Wieser Herbert , Koehler Peter , Scherf Katharina Anne
Published: March 2017

Coeliac disease (CD) is triggered by the ingestion of gluten proteins from wheat, rye, and barley. The 33-mer peptide from α2-gliadin has frequently been described as the most important CD-immunogenic sequence within gluten. However, from more than 890 published amino acid sequences of α-gliadins, only 19 sequences contain the 33-mer. In order to make a precise assessment of the importance of the 33-mer, it is necessary to elucidate which wheat species and cultivars contain the peptide and at which concentrations. This paper presents the development of a stable isotope dilution assay followed by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry to quantitate the 33-mer in flours of 23 hexaploid modern and 15 old common (bread) wheat as well as two spelt cultivars. All flours contained the 33-mer peptide at levels ranging from 91–603 μg/g flour. In contrast, the 33-mer was absent (<limit of detection) from tetra- and diploid species (durum wheat, emmer, einkorn), most likely because of the absence of the D-genome, which encodes α2-gliadins. Due to the presence of the 33-mer in all common wheat and spelt flours analysed here, the special focus in the literature on this most immunodominant peptide seems to be justified.
Iron-based magnetic superhalogens with pseudohalogens as ligands: An unbiased structure search
Authors: Ping Ding Li , Shao Peng , Lu Cheng , Hui Zhang Fang , Wang Li Ya
Published: March 2017

We have performed an unbiased structure search for a series of neutral and anionic FeL4 (L = BO2, CN, NO2, NO3, OH, CH3, NH2, BH4 and Li2H3) clusters using the CALYPSO (Crystal structure Analysis by Particle Swarm Optimization) structure search method. To probe the superhalogen properties of neutral and anionic FeL4 clusters, we used density-functional theory with the B3LYP functional to examine three factors, including distribution of extra electron, pattern of bonding and the nature of the ligands. Theoretical results show that Fe(BO2)4, Fe(NO3)4 and Fe(NO2)4 can be classified as magnetic superhalogen due to that their electron affinities even exceed those of the constituent ligands. The magnetic moment of Fe atom is almost entirly maintained when it is decorated with various ligands except for neutral and anionic (Li2H3)4. Moreover, the current work is also extended to the salt moieties formed by hyperhalogen/superhalogen anion and Na+ ion. It is found that these salts against dissociation into Na + FeL4 are thermodynamic stable except for Na[Fe(OH)4]. These results provides a wealth of electronic structure information about FeL4 magnetic superhalogens and offer insights into the synthesis mechanisms.
Akirin2 regulates proliferation and differentiation of porcine skeletal muscle satellite cells via ERK1/2 and NFATc1 signaling pathways
Authors: Chen Xiaoling , Luo Yanliu , Huang Zhiqing , Jia Gang , Liu Guangmang , Zhao Hua
Published: March 2017

Akirin2, a novel nuclear factor, plays an important role in myogenesis. To investigate the role of Akirin2 in proliferation and differentiation of porcine skeletal muscle satellite cells, Akirin2 overexpression and Akirin2 silence technologies were employed. Our results showed that overexpression of Akirin2 markedly enhanced the proliferation and differentiation of porcine skeletal muscle satellite cells, whereas silencing of Akirin2 got the opposite results. Furthermore, our results showed that Akirin2 affected proliferation and differentiation of porcine skeletal muscle satellite cells through extracellular-signal regulated kinase-1/2 (ERK1/2) and NFATc1 signaling pathways. These results indicate that Akirin2 can effectively promote skeletal muscle satellite cells proliferation and differentiation, acting through ERK1/2- and NFATc1-dependent mechanisms.
The reaction mechanism of sarcosine oxidase elucidated using FMO and QM/MM methods
Authors: Abe Yukihiro , Shoji Mitsuo , Nishiya Yoshiaki , Aiba Hiroshi , Kishimoto Takahide , Kitaura Kazuo
Published: March 2017

Monomeric sarcosine oxidase (MSOX) is a flavoprotein that oxidizes sarcosine to the corresponding imine product and is widely used in clinical diagnostics to test renal function.
Ethylcellulose oleogels for lipophilic bioactive delivery – effect of oleogelation on in vitro bioaccessibility and stability of beta-carotene
Authors: O′Sullivan Chloe M. , Davidovich-Pinhas Maya , Wright Amanda J. , Barbut Shai , Marangoni Alejandro G.
Published: March 2017

The in vitro lipolysis and β-carotene (BC) transfer from oil to aqueous phase of canola oil ethylcellulose (EC) oleogels were measured using a static monocompartmental model simulating oral, gastric, and duodenal digestive stages.
Visible-light-driven photocatalytic properties of binary MoS2/ZnS heterostructured nanojunctions synthesized via one-step hydrothermal route
Authors: Joy Mega , Mohamed A. Peer , Warrier K. G. K. , Hareesh U. S.
Published: March 2017

The MoS2/ZnS binary heterojunctions obtained by a facile one-step hydrothermal route is competent to retrench the forbidden energy gap by creating sulfur vacancies. The tailoring of the lattice parameters of sulfides for interfacial charge transfer through the heterojunctions enhanced photocatalytic activity.
A D–A copolymer donor containing an alkylthio-substituted thieno[3,2-b]thiophene unit
Authors: Kong Rui , Xiao Zuo , Xie Fangyuan , Jiang Jiaxing , Ding Liming
Published: March 2017

A D–A copolymer (PSTTF2T) based on alkylthio-substituted thieno[3,2-b]thiophene was prepared. PSTTF2T is compatible with fullerene and non-fullerene acceptors in solar cells.
Phosphorylcholine micelles decorated by hyaluronic acid for enhancing antitumor efficiency
Authors: Li Shuai , Cai Yuanyuan , Cao Jun , Cai Mengtan , Chen Yuanwei , Luo Xianglin
Published: March 2017

DOX-loaded PCL-PDEAMPC micelles coated with HA by electrostatic attraction for enhancing antitumor efficiency and prolonging blood circulation time.
Preparation of [18F]-NHC-BF3 conjugates and their applications in PET imaging
Authors: Chansaenpak Kantapat , Wang Mengzhe , Wang Hui , Giglio Benjamin C. , Gabbaï François P. , Wu Zhanhong , Li Zibo
Published: March 2017

[18F]-NHC-BF3 functionalized bioactive molecules can be successfully synthesized by 18F–19F isotopic exchange in one labelling step affording highly stable PET probes which can visualize targeted tumours in mice.
Trans fatty acid determination by capillary zone electrophoresis: the state of the art and applications
Authors: Prado T. L. A. , Oliveira M. A. L.
Published: March 2017

These advantages make the technique be very attractive to attend demand of governmental agencies and industries facing the global concern in respect of the harmful health effects caused by increasing intake of TFA, as EA.
Chemo-photodynamic combined gene therapy and dual-modal cancer imaging achieved by pH-responsive alginate/chitosan multilayer-modified magnetic mesoporous silica nanocomposites
Authors: Yang Hong , Chen Yin , Chen Zhongyuan , Geng Yue , Xie Xiaoxue , Shen Xue , Li Tingting , Li Shun , Wu Chunhui , Liu Yiyao
Published: March 2017

Novel nanocomposites were fabricated as theranostics for MR/CT imaging and tumor therapy in vivo.
Mustard-inspired delivery shuttle for enhanced blood–brain barrier penetration and effective drug delivery in glioma therapy
Authors: Wang Nan , Sun Pei , Lv Mingming , Tong Gangsheng , Jin Xin , Zhu Xinyuan
Published: March 2017

A mustard-inspired delivery shuttle was constructed for enhanced blood–brain barrier penetration and effective drug delivery in glioma therapy.
Fabrication of conjugated microporous polytriazine nanotubes and nanospheres for highly selective CO2 capture
Authors: Wang Zhiqiang , Liu Junling , Fu Yu , Liu Cheng , Pan Chunyue , Liu Zhiyong , Yu Guipeng
Published: March 2017

A new strategy for fabricating CMPs with a controllable morphology and a molecular design for enhancing host–guest interactions lead to high capacities for CO2 and exceptionally high ideal selectivities over N2.
Discovery of temperature-dependent, autoinductive reversal of enantioselectivity: palladium-mediated [3+3]-annulation of 4-hydroxycoumarins
Authors: Wang Shasha , Xiao Junan , Li Jun , Xiang Haoyue , Wang Chaoming , Chen Xiaoqing , Carter Rich G. , Yang Hua
Published: March 2017

An unusual temperature-dependent autoinductive reversal of enantioselectivity (TARE) was discovered in an asymmetric palladium-mediated [3+3]-annulation of 4-hydroxycoumarin with Morita–Baylis–Hillman acetate.
Rationalizing the relative abundances of trimetallic nitride template-based endohedral metallofullerenes from aromaticity measures
Authors: Garcia-Borràs M. , Osuna S. , Luis J. M. , Solà M.
Published: March 2017

The synthesis of endohedral metallofullerenes (EMFs) from a carbon soot sample leads to a variety of EMFs that are obtained in different relative abundances. In this work, we show that these abundances can be predicted from aromaticity calculations.
Addressing stability challenges of using bimetallic electrocatalysts: the case of gold–palladium nanoalloys
Authors: Pizzutilo Enrico , Freakley Simon J. , Geiger Simon , Baldizzone Claudio , Mingers Andrea , Hutchings Graham J. , Mayrhofer Karl J. J. , Cherevko Serhiy
Published: March 2017

Studying changes in surface composition of bimetallic (AuPd) catalysts under dealloying is of key importance for predicting their stability during application.
Bis-cyclometalated iridium complexes with electronically modified aryl isocyanide ancillary ligands
Authors: Na Hanah , Maity Ayan , Teets Thomas S.
Published: March 2017

Bis-cyclometalated iridium complexes with electronically modified aryl isocyanide ligands are described, and the effects on the photophysical properties are noted.
Identification of steroid-like natural products as antiplasmodial agents by 2D and 3D similarity-based virtual screening
Authors: Pavadai Elumalai , Kaur Gurminder , Wittlin Sergio , Chibale Kelly
Published: March 2017

The emergence of drug resistance inPlasmodium falciparumto available antimalarial drugs has challenged current antimalarial treatments.
A highly enantioselective Friedel–Crafts reaction of 3,5-dimethoxylphenol with nitroolefins mediated by a bifunctional quinine derived thiourea catalyst
Authors: Han Xiaoyu , Ye Can , Chen Fenfen , Chen Qu , Wang Yongjiang , Zeng Xiaofei
Published: March 2017

A useful and highly enantioselective Friedel–Crafts reaction of 3,5-dimethoxylphenol with nitroolefins catalyzed by a bifunctional quinine derived thiourea catalyst was developed.
Size-selective adsorption of anionic dyes induced by the layer space in layered double hydroxide hollow microspheres
Authors: Huang Peipei , Liu Jian , Wei Fang , Zhu Yanan , Wang Xiaoshi , Cao Changyan , Song Weiguo
Published: March 2017

Flower-like cobalt aluminum layered double hydroxide hollow microspheres showed high adsorption capacity for methyl orange and exhibited size-selective adsorption properties towards different kinds of anionic dyes.
Anthroxyl-based biradical: toward the construction of highly stable multi-spin systems
Authors: Hirao Yasukazu , Konishi Akihito , Kubo Takashi
Published: March 2017

A new two-spin system having two anthroxyl radicals was found to be stable even after exposing it to refluxing ethanol.
An electrostatic nanosecond switch in a nanoscale water channel
Authors: Zheng Dongqin , He Jianhui , Feng Jiamei , Wen Jiale , Zhong Weirong
Published: March 2017

We proposed a nano-scale water switch composed of CNTs. We can control the switch toggle between open and close state only by changing the direction of the external electric field.
Growth of epithelial cells on films of enzymatically synthesized poly(gallic acid) crosslinked to carboxymethylcellulose
Authors: Romero-Montero Alejandra , Tecante Alberto , García-Arrazola Roeb , Montiel Carmina , del Valle Luis J. , Puiggalí Jordi , Gimeno Miquel
Published: March 2017

Enzyme-mediated poly(gallic acid) crosslinked to carboxymethylcellulose toward a novel material for skin tissue engineering.
Effect of copper oxide shell thickness on flash light sintering of copper nanoparticle ink
Authors: Oh Gyung-Hwan , Hwang Hyun-Jun , Kim Hak-Sung
Published: March 2017

In this study, the effect of the thickness of a copper oxide-shell on flash light sintering of Cu nanoparticles (NPs) was investigated.
Effective dopants in p-type elementary Te thermoelectrics
Authors: Qian Xin , Xiao Yu , Zheng Lei , Qin Bingchao , Zhou Yiming , Pei Yanling , Yuan Bifei , Gong Shangkai , Zhao Li-Dong
Published: March 2017

Bi and Sb are effective dopants in a p-type Te system and can largely enhance the thermoelectric performance of Te, the maximum ZT values of ∼0.8 in Te0.9925Bi0.0075 and ∼1.1 in Te0.985Sb0.015 at 673 K can be achieved.
Dynamics of naphthenic acids and microbial community structures in a membrane bioreactor treating oil sands process-affected water: impacts of supplemented inorganic nitrogen and hydraulic retention time
Authors: Xue Jinkai , Zhang Yanyan , Liu Yang , Gamal El-Din Mohamed
Published: March 2017

This study was focused on how different operating conditions affected the biodegradation of naphthenic acids and the microbial community architectures in an anoxic–aerobic membrane bioreactor for oil sands process-affected water treatment.
Controllable synthesis and magnetotransport properties of Cd3As2Dirac semimetal nanostructures
Authors: Zhang Kang , Pan Haiyang , Zhang Minhao , Wei Zhongxia , Gao Ming , Song Fengqi , Wang Xuefeng , Zhang Rong
Published: March 2017

Cd3As2nanostructures with different morphologies have been controllably synthesized by a facile CVD method. They display interesting unsaturated and/or linear magnetoresistance.
Shape controlled synthesis of porous tetrametallic PtAgBiCo nanoplates as highly active and methanol-tolerant electrocatalyst for oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Mahmood Azhar , Xie Nanhong , Ud Din Muhammad Aizaz , Saleem Faisal , Lin Haifeng , Wang Xun
Published: March 2017

We present a new two-step synthetic route combining the concepts of crystal symmetry, seed ratio and oxidative etching that yields tetrametallic PtAgBiCo nanoplates.
Insertion of nanostructured titanates into the pores of an anodised TiO2 nanotube array by mechanically stimulated electrophoretic deposition
Authors: Martins Alysson S. , Harito Christian , Bavykin Dmitry V. , Walsh Frank C. , V. Lanza Marcos R.
Published: March 2017

TiO2 nanotube (TiO2NT) surfaces can achieve a high area surface and enhanced electrocatalytic properties.
Nondestructive up-conversion readout in Er/Yb co-doped Na0.5Bi2.5Nb2O9-based optical storage materials for optical data storage device applications
Authors: Zhang Qiwei , Yue Shuangshuang , Sun Haiqin , Wang Xusheng , Hao Xihong , An Shengli
Published: March 2017

Er/Yb co-doped NBN photochromics exhibit excellent luminescence readout capability by using a two-photon absorption mode with extremely low destruction on information recording.
Synthesis of formamidinium lead halide perovskite nanocrystals through solid–liquid–solid cation exchange
Authors: Hills-Kimball K. , Nagaoka Y. , Cao C. , Chaykovsky E. , Chen O.
Published: March 2017

Hybrid organic–inorganic formamidinium lead halide perovskite nanocrystals can be synthesized through a solid–liquid–solid cation exchange reaction.
Ion Coulomb crystals: from quantum technology to chemistry close to the absolute zero point
Authors: Dulieu O. , Willitsch S.
Published: March 2017

Ion Coulomb crystals are ordered structures of atomic or molecular ions stored in ion traps at temperatures close to the absolute zero point. These unusual “crystals” form the basis of extremely accurate clocks, provide an environment for precise studies of chemical reactions and enable advanced implementations of the technology for a quantum computer. In this article, we discuss the techniques for generating atomic and molecular Coulomb crystals and highlight some of their applications.
Imaging of Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Sahani Dushyant , Arellano Ronald
Published: March 2017

Cross-section imaging plays an increasingly important role in the evaluation and diagnosis of cholangiocarcinoma (CC). CCs can have varied radiological appearances, depending on their location, morphology, as well as their histological characteristics. An awareness of the varied imaging manifestations of CC and its accurate diagnosis are necessary to direct appropriate management. Recent advances in imaging techniques, histological assessment, molecular imaging, surgical techniques, and radiation therapy have all revitalized interest in the diagnosis and management of CCs.
A Comparative Study between Universal Eclectic Septoplasty Technique and Cottle
Authors: Amaral Neto Odim , Mizoguchi Flavio , Freitas Renato , Maniglia João , Maniglia Fábio , Maniglia Ricardo
Published: March 2017

Introduction Since the last century surgical correction of nasal septum deviation has been improved. The Universal Eclectic Technique was recently reported and there are still few studies dedicated to address this surgical approach.

Objective The objective of this study is to compare the results of septal deviation correction achieved using the Universal Eclectic Technique (UET) with those obtained through Cottle's Technique.

Methods This is a prospective study with two consecutive case series totaling 90 patients (40 women and 50 men), aged between 18 and 55 years. We divided patients into two groups according to the surgical approach. Fifty-three patients underwent septoplasty through Universal Eclectic Technique (UET) and thirty-seven patients were submitted to classical Cottle's septoplasty technique. All patients have answered the Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation Scale (NOSE) questionnaire to assess pre and postoperative nasal obstruction.

Results Statistical analysis showed a significantly shorter operating time for the UET group. Nasal edema assessment performed seven days after the surgery showed a prevalence of mild edema in UET group and moderate edema in Cottle's technique group. In regard to complication rates, UET presented a single case of septal hematoma while in Cottle's technique group we observed: 02 cases of severe edemas, 01 case of incapacitating headache, and 01 complaint of nasal pain.

Conclusion The Universal Eclectic Technique (UET) has proven to be a safe and effective surgical technique with faster symptomatic improvement, low complication rates, and reduced surgical time when compared with classical Cottle's technique.