bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of a novel inhibitory human monoclonal antibody directed against Plasmodium falciparum Apical Membrane Antigen 1
Authors: Maskus Dominika J. , Królik Michał , Bethke Susanne , Spiegel Holger , Kapelski Stephanie , Seidel Melanie , Addai-Mensah Otchere , Reimann Andreas , Klockenbring Torsten , Barth Stefan , Fischer Rainer , Fendel Rolf
Published: December 2016

Malaria remains a major challenge to global health causing extensive morbidity and mortality. Yet, there is no efficient vaccine and the immune response remains incompletely understood. Apical Membrane Antigen 1 (AMA1), a leading vaccine candidate, plays a key role during merozoite invasion into erythrocytes by interacting with Rhoptry Neck Protein 2 (RON2). We generated a human anti-AMA1-antibody (humAbAMA1) by EBV-transformation of sorted B-lymphocytes from a Ghanaian donor and subsequent rescue of antibody variable regions. The antibody was expressed in Nicotiana benthamiana and in HEK239-6E, characterized for binding specificity and epitope, and analyzed for its inhibitory effect on Plasmodium falciparum. The generated humAbAMA1 shows an affinity of 106–135 pM. It inhibits the parasite strain 3D7A growth in vitro with an expression system-independent IC50-value of 35 μg/ml (95% confidence interval: 33 μg/ml–37 μg/ml), which is three to eight times lower than the IC50-values of inhibitory antibodies 4G2 and 1F9. The epitope was mapped to the close proximity of the RON2-peptide binding groove. Competition for binding between the RON2-peptide and humAbAMA1 was confirmed by surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy measurements. The particularly advantageous inhibitory activity of this fully human antibody might provide a basis for future therapeutic applications.
Use of PEG-asparaginase in newly diagnosed adults with standard-risk acute lymphoblastic leukemia compared with E. coli-asparaginase: a retrospective single-center study
Authors: Liu Wen-jian , Wang Hua , Wang Wei-da , Zhu Meng-yuan , Liu Cheng-cheng , Wang Jing-hua , Lu Yue
Published: December 2016

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a heterogeneous disease, and the long-term survival varies with different ages. We performed a retrospective analysis of 122 newly diagnosed adults with standard-risk ALL treated with Escherichia coli asparaginase (E. coli-asparaginase, n = 50) and polyethylene glycol-conjugated asparaginase (PEG-asparaginase, n = 72). No treatment-related mortality (TRM) occurred in the E. coli-asparaginase group, and 3 TRM events occurred in the PEG-asparaginase group without relation to asparaginase. In addition, 22 (44.0%) and 48 (66.7%) patients achieved a complete response (CR) on day 14 in the E. coli-asparaginase and PEG-asparaginase groups, respectively (P = 0.032). No different 5-year event-free survival (EFS) or overall survival (OS) rate (P = 0.632 and 0.769) was observed. Multivariate analysis revealed later CR (P = 0.008) and older age (P = 0.049) as adverse prognostic factors for both EFS and OS. In addition, we specifically monitored the known adverse effects of asparaginase, and no asparaginase-related death was observed. Allergy occurred in 9 patients using E. coli-asparaginase, and no patient in the PEG-asparaginase group suffered from allergies (P <0.001). The incidence of other asparaginase-related toxicities was similar. We conclude that PEG-asparaginase can be safely and effectively used as asparaginase in adults with newly diagnosed standard-risk ALL.
Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index Predicts Prognosis of Patients with Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Propensity Score-matched Analysis
Authors: Geng Yiting , Shao Yingjie , Zhu Danxia , Zheng Xiao , Zhou Qi , Zhou Wenjie , Ni Xuefeng , Wu Changping , Jiang Jingting
Published: December 2016

Systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), based on peripheral lymphocyte, neutrophil, and platelet counts, was recently investigated as a prognostic marker in several tumors. However, SII has not been reported in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). We evaluated the prognostic value of the SII in 916 patients with ESCC who underwent radical surgery. Univariate and multivariate analyses were calculated by the Cox proportional hazards regression model. The time-dependent receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve was used to compare the discrimination ability for OS. PSM (propensity score matching) was carried out to imbalance the baseline characteristics. Our results showed that SII, PLR, NLR and MLR were all associated with OS in ESCC patients in the Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. However, only SII was an independent risk factor for OS (HR = 1.24, 95% CI 1.01–1.53, P = 0.042) among these systemic inflammation scores. The AUC for SII was bigger than PLR, NLR and MLR. In the PSM analysis, SII still remained an independent predictor for OS (HR = 1.30, CI 1.05–1.60, P = 0.018). SII is a novel, simple and inexpensive prognostic predictor for patients with ESCC undergoing radical esophagectomy. The prognostic value of SII is superior to PLR, NLR and MLR.
The balance of metagenomic elements shapes the skin microbiome in acne and health
Authors: Barnard Emma , Shi Baochen , Kang Dezhi , Craft Noah , Li Huiying
Published: December 2016

Studies have emphasized the importance of disease-associated microorganisms in perturbed communities, however, the protective roles of commensals are largely under recognized and poorly understood. Using acne as a model disease, we investigated the determinants of the overall virulence property of the skin microbiota when disease- and health-associated organisms coexist in the community. By ultra-deep metagenomic shotgun sequencing, we revealed higher relative abundances of propionibacteria and Propionibacterium acnes phage in healthy skin. In acne patients, the microbiome composition at the species level and at P. acnes strain level was more diverse than in healthy individuals, with enriched virulence-associated factors and reduced abundance of metabolic synthesis genes. Based on the abundance profiles of the metagenomic elements, we constructed a quantitative prediction model, which classified the clinical states of the host skin with high accuracy in both our study cohort (85%) and an independent sample set (86%). Our results suggest that the balance between metagenomic elements, not the mere presence of disease-associated strains, shapes the overall virulence property of the skin microbiota. This study provides new insights into the microbial mechanism of acne pathogenesis and suggests probiotic and phage therapies as potential acne treatments to modulate the skin microbiota and to maintain skin health.
Multi-Scale-Porosity TiO2 scaffolds grown by innovative sputtering methods for high throughput hybrid photovoltaics
Authors: Sanzaro Salvatore , Smecca Emanuele , Mannino Giovanni , Bongiorno Corrado , Pellegrino Giovanna , Neri Fortunato , Malandrino Graziella , Catalano Maria Rita , Condorelli Guglielmo Guido , Iacobellis Rosabianca , De Marco Luisa , Spinella Corrado , La Magna Antonino , Alberti Alessandra
Published: December 2016

We propose an up-scalable, reliable, contamination-free, rod-like TiO2material grown by a new method based on sputtering deposition concepts which offers a multi-scale porosity, namely: an intra-rods nano-porosity (1–5 nm) arising from the Thornton’s conditions and an extra-rods meso-porosity (10–50 nm) originating from the spatial separation of the Titanium and Oxygen sources combined with a grazing Ti flux. The procedure is simple, since it does not require any template layer to trigger the nano-structuring, and versatile, since porosity and layer thickness can be easily tuned; it is empowered by the lack of contaminations/solvents and by the structural stability of the material (at least) up to 500 °C. Our material gains porosity, stability and infiltration capability superior if compared to conventionally sputtered TiO2layers. Its competition level with chemically synthesized reference counterparts is doubly demonstrated: in Dye Sensitized Solar Cells, by the infiltration and chemisorption of N-719 dye (∼1 × 1020molecules/cm3); and in Perovskite Solar Cells, by the capillary infiltration of solution processed CH3NH3PbI3which allowed reaching efficiency of 11.7%. Based on the demonstrated attitude of the material to be functionalized, its surface activity could be differently tailored on other molecules or gas species or liquids to enlarge the range of application in different fields.
Investigation of switching mechanism in HfOx-ReRAM under low power and conventional operation modes
Authors: Feng Wei , Shima Hisashi , Ohmori Kenji , Akinaga Hiroyuki
Published: December 2016

Low-power resistive random access memory (LP-ReRAM) devices have attracted increasing attention owing to their advantages of low operation power. In this study, a vertical-type LP-ReRAM consisting of TiN/Ti/HfO2/TiN structure was fabricated. The switching mechanism for LP-ReRAM was elucidated as the conductive filament mechanism for conventional mode, and an interface-type switching mechanism for low power mode was proposed. The analysis of low frequency noise shows that power spectral density (PSD) is approximately proportional to 1/f for conventional operation mode. Nevertheless, for low power mode, the PSD of low resistance state (LRS) is proportional to 1/f, while that of high resistance state (HRS) is clear proportional to 1/f2. The envelope of multiple Lorentzian spectra of 1/f2 characteristics due to different traps reveals the characteristics of 1/f. For HRS of low power mode, a limited number of traps results in a characteristic of 1/f2. During the set process, the number of oxygen vacancies increases for LRS. Therefore, the PSD value is proportional to 1/f. Owing to the increase in the number of traps when the operation mode changes to conventional mode, the PSD value is proportional to 1/f. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that reveals the different noise characteristics in the low power operation mode from that in the conventional operation mode.
Chronic hepatitis C infection–induced liver fibrogenesis is associated with M2 macrophage activation
Authors: Bility Moses T. , Nio Kouki , Li Feng , McGivern David R. , Lemon Stanley M. , Feeney Eoin R. , Chung Raymond T. , Su Lishan
Published: December 2016

The immuno-pathogenic mechanisms of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection remain to be elucidated and pose a major hurdle in treating or preventing chronic HCV-induced advanced liver diseases such as cirrhosis. Macrophages are a major component of the inflammatory milieu in chronic HCV–induced liver disease, and are generally derived from circulating inflammatory monocytes; however very little is known about their role in liver diseases. To investigate the activation and role of macrophages in chronic HCV–induced liver fibrosis, we utilized a recently developed humanized mouse model with autologous human immune and liver cells, human liver and blood samples and cell culture models of monocyte/macrophage and/or hepatic stellate cell activation. We showed that M2 macrophage activation was associated with liver fibrosis during chronic HCV infection in the livers of both humanized mice and patients, and direct-acting antiviral therapy attenuated M2 macrophage activation and associated liver fibrosis. We demonstrated that supernatant from HCV-infected liver cells activated human monocytes/macrophages with M2-like phenotypes. Importantly, HCV-activated monocytes/macrophages promoted hepatic stellate cell activation. These results suggest a critical role for M2 macrophage induction in chronic HCV-associated immune dysregulation and liver fibrosis.
High resolution crystal structure of the catalytic domain of MCR-1
Authors: Ma Guixing , Zhu Yifan , Yu Zhicheng , Ahmad Ashfaq , Zhang Hongmin
Published: December 2016

The newly identified mobile colistin resistant gene (mcr-1) rapidly spread among different bacterial strains and confers colistin resistance to its host, which has become a global concern. Based on sequence alignment, MCR-1 should be a phosphoethanolamine transferase, members of the YhjW/YjdB/YijP superfamily and catalyze the addition of phosphoethanolamine to lipid A, which needs to be validated experimentally. Here we report the first high-resolution crystal structure of the C-terminal catalytic domain of MCR-1 (MCR-1C) in its native state. The active pocket of native MCR-1C depicts unphosphorylated nucleophilic residue Thr285 in coordination with two Zinc ions and water molecules. A flexible adjacent active site loop (aa: Lys348-365) pose an open conformation compared to its structural homologues, suggesting of an open substrate entry channel. Taken together, this structure sets ground for further study of substrate binding and MCR-1 catalytic mechanism in development of potential therapeutic agents.
Dipentaerythritol penta-acrylate phosphate - an alternative phosphate ester monomer for bonding of methacrylates to zirconia
Authors: Chen Ying , Tay Franklin R. , Lu Zhicen , Chen Chen , Qian Mengke , Zhang Huaiqin , Tian Fucong , Xie Haifeng
Published: December 2016

The present work examined the effects of dipentaerythritol penta-acrylate phosphate (PENTA) as an alternative phosphate ester monomer for bonding of methacrylate-based resins to yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystals (Y-TZP) and further investigated the potential bonding mechanism involved. Shear bond strength testing was performed to evaluate the efficacy of experimental PENTA-containing primers (5, 10, 15, 20 or 30 wt% PENTA in acetone) in improving resin-Y-TZP bond strength. Bonding without the use of a PENTA-containing served as the negative control, and a Methacryloyloxidecyl dihydrogenphosphate(MDP)-containing primer was used as the positive control. Inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were used to investigate the potential existence of chemical affinity between PENTA and Y-TZP. Shear bond strengths were significant higher in the 15 and 20 wt% PENTA groups. The ICP-MS, XPS and FTIR data indicated that the P content on the Y-TZP surface increased as the concentration of PENTA increased in the experimental primers, via the formation of Zr–O–P bond. Taken together, the results attest that PENTA improves resin bonding of Y-TZP through chemical reaction with Y-TZP. Increasing the concentration of PENTA augments its binding affinity but not its bonding efficacy with zirconia.
Physico-chemical properties based differential toxicity of graphene oxide/reduced graphene oxide in human lung cells mediated through oxidative stress
Authors: Mittal Sandeep , Kumar Veeresh , Dhiman Nitesh , Chauhan Lalit Kumar Singh , Pasricha Renu , Pandey Alok Kumar
Published: December 2016

Graphene derivatives (GD) are currently being evaluated for technological and biomedical applications owing to their unique physico-chemical properties over other carbon allotrope such as carbon nanotubes (CNTs). But, the possible association of their properties with underlyingin vitroeffects have not fully examined. Here, we assessed the comparative interaction of three GD - graphene oxide (GO), thermally reduced GO (TRGO) and chemically reduced GO (CRGO), which significantly differ in their lateral size and functional groups density, with phenotypically different human lung cells; bronchial epithelial cells (BEAS-2B) and alveolar epithelial cells (A549). The cellular studies demonstrate that GD significantly ineternalize and induce oxidative stress mediated cytotoxicity in both cells. The toxicity intensity was in line with the reduced lateral size and increased functional groups revealed more toxicity potential of TRGO and GO respectively. Further, A549 cells showed more susceptibility than BEAS-2B which reflected cell type dependent differential cellular response. Molecular studies revealed that GD induced differential cell death mechanism which was efficiently prevented by their respective inhibitors. This is prior study to the best of our knowledge involving TRGO for its safety evaluation which provided invaluable information and new opportunities for GD based biomedical applications.
Immunomodulatory and Antitumor Effects of a Novel TLR7 Agonist Combined with Lapatinib
Authors: Gao Ningning , Zhong Jingjing , Wang Xiaodong , Jin Zhenchao , Li Wang , Liu Yu , Diao Yuwen , Wang Zhulin , Jiang Wenqi , Jin Guangyi
Published: December 2016

As new treatment approaches, both immunotherapy and targeted treatments have been used in the clinical treatment of cancers. These therapies are different from traditional surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Use of a combination of immunotherapy and targeted treatments may improve tumor clearance. We investigated the feasibility of combining tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs, targeted drugs) and SZU-101 (a novel TLR7 agonist synthesized by our laboratory). Thirteen different TKIs were combined with or without SZU-101 and studied to determine their effects on immunocytes. On the basis of the distinctive results, lapatinib and sunitinib were selected for further tumor-inhibition investigation and determination of the underlying mechanism. Interestingly, we found lapatinib to work better with SZU-101, enhancing tumor clearance in vivo, without affecting the TLR7-NF-κB pathway activated by the TLR7 agonist in mouse spleen lymphocytes and bone marrow dendritic cells (BMDCs).
Illegitimate translation causes unexpected gene expression from on-target out-of-frame alleles created by CRISPR-Cas9
Authors: Makino Shigeru , Fukumura Ryutaro , Gondo Yoichi
Published: December 2016

CRISPR-Cas9 is efficient enough to knock out both alleles directly by introducing out-of-frame mutations. We succeeded in making biallelic on-target frameshift mutations of the endogenous Gli3 gene; however, the GLI3 protein was expressed in all six of the established cell lines carrying homozygous out-of-frame mutations. We developed a dual-tagged expression vector and proved that illegitimate translation (ITL) was the cause of the unexpected Gli3 expression. Thus, gene expression must be examined even if designed on-target out-of-frame sequences are introduced by genome editing. In addition, it is highly recommended to pre-examine the occurrence of ITL in vitro prior to the design and construction of any genome-editing vectors. In vitro assay systems such as the dual-tagged ITL assay system developed in this study should aid the identification and elucidation of ITL-based human diseases and gene expression.
In vivo label-free photoacoustic flow cytography and on-the-spot laser killing of single circulating melanoma cells
Authors: He Yun , Wang Lidai , Shi Junhui , Yao Junjie , Li Lei , Zhang Ruiying , Huang Chih-Hsien , Zou Jun , Wang Lihong V.
Published: December 2016

Metastasis causes as many as 90% of cancer-related deaths, especially for the deadliest skin cancer, melanoma. Since hematogenous dissemination of circulating tumor cells is the major route of metastasis, detection and destruction of circulating tumor cells are vital for impeding metastasis and improving patient prognosis. Exploiting the exquisite intrinsic optical absorption contrast of circulating melanoma cells, we developed dual-wavelength photoacoustic flow cytography coupled with a nanosecond-pulsed melanoma-specific laser therapy mechanism. We have successfully achieved in vivo label-free imaging of rare single circulating melanoma cells in both arteries and veins of mice. Further, the photoacoustic signal from a circulating melanoma cell immediately hardware-triggers a lethal pinpoint laser irradiation to kill it on the spot in a thermally confined manner without causing collateral damage. A pseudo-therapy study including both in vivo and in vitro experiments demonstrated the performance and the potential clinical value of our method, which can facilitate early treatment of metastasis by clearing circulating tumor cells from vasculature.
A diketopiperazine factor from Rheinheimera aquimaris QSI02 exhibits anti-quorum sensing activity
Authors: Sun Shiwei , Dai Xiaoyun , Sun Jiao , Bu Xiangguo , Weng Caihong , Li Hui , Zhu Hu
Published: December 2016

An ethyl acetate (EtOAc) extract isolated from the marine bacterium, Rheinheimera aquimaris QSI02, was found to exhibit anti-quorum sensing (anti-QS) activity. A subsequent bioassay-guided isolation protocol led to the detection of an active diketopiperazine factor, cyclo(Trp-Ser). Biosensor assay data showed that the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of cyclo(Trp-Ser) ranged from 3.2 mg/ml to 6.4 mg/m for several microorganisms, including Escherichia coli, Chromobacterium violaceum CV026, Pseudomonas aeruginosa PA01, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans. Additionally, sub-MICs of cyclo(Trp-Ser) decreased the QS-regulated violacein production in C. violaceum CV026 by 67%. Furthermore, cyclo(Trp-Ser) can decrease QS-regulated pyocyanin production, elastase activity and biofilm formation in P. aeruginosa PA01 by 65%, 40% and 59.9%, respectively. Molecular docking results revealed that cyclo(Trp-Ser) binds to CviR receptor more rigidly than C6HSL with lower docking energy −8.68 kcal/mol, while with higher binding energy of −8.40 kcal/mol than 3-oxo-C12HSL in LasR receptor. Molecular dynamics simulation suggested that cyclo(Trp-Ser) is more easy to bind to CviR receptor than natural signaling molecule, but opposite in LasR receptor. These results suggest that cyclo(Trp-Ser) can be used as a potential inhibitor to control QS systems of C. violaceum and P. aeruginosa and provide increased the understanding of molecular mechanism that influences QS-regulated behaviors.
Characterization of blunt chest trauma in a long-term porcine model of severe multiple trauma
Authors: Horst K. , Simon T. P. , Pfeifer R. , Teuben M. , Almahmoud K. , Zhi Q. , Santos S. Aguiar , Wembers C. Castelar , Leonhardt S. , Heussen N. , Störmann P. , Auner B. , Relja B. , Marzi I. , Haug A. T. , van Griensven M. , Kalbitz M. , Huber-Lang M. , Tolba R. , Reiss L. K. , Uhlig S. , Marx G. , Pape H. C. , Hildebrand F.
Published: December 2016

Chest trauma has a significant relevance on outcome after severe trauma. Clinically, impaired lung function typically occurs within 72 hours after trauma. However, the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms are still not fully elucidated. Therefore, we aimed to establish an experimental long-term model to investigate physiological, morphologic and inflammatory changes, after severe trauma. Male pigs (sus scrofa) sustained severe trauma (including unilateral chest trauma, femur fracture, liver laceration and hemorrhagic shock). Additionally, non-injured animals served as sham controls. Chest trauma resulted in severe lung damage on both CT and histological analyses. Furthermore, severe inflammation with a systemic increase of IL-6 (p = 0.0305) and a local increase of IL-8 in BAL (p = 0.0009) was observed. The pO2/FiO2 ratio in trauma animals decreased over the observation period (p < 0.0001) but not in the sham group (p = 0.2967). Electrical Impedance Tomography (EIT) revealed differences between the traumatized and healthy lung (p < 0.0001). In conclusion, a clinically relevant, long-term model of blunt chest trauma with concomitant injuries has been developed. This reproducible model allows to examine local and systemic consequences of trauma and is valid for investigation of potential diagnostic or therapeutic options. In this context, EIT might represent a radiation-free method for bedside diagnostics.
Knowledge-Guided Bioinformatics Model for Identifying Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnostic MicroRNA Biomarkers
Authors: Shen Li , Lin Yuxin , Sun Zhandong , Yuan Xuye , Chen Luonan , Shen Bairong
Published: December 2016

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a severe neurodevelopmental disease with a high incidence and effective biomarkers are urgently needed for its diagnosis. A few previous studies have reported the detection of miRNA biomarkers for autism diagnosis, especially those based on bioinformatics approaches. In this study, we developed a knowledge-guided bioinformatics model for identifying autism miRNA biomarkers. We downloaded gene expression microarray data from the GEO Database and extracted genes with expression levels that differed in ASD and the controls. We then constructed an autism-specific miRNA–mRNA network and inferred candidate autism biomarker miRNAs based on their regulatory modes and functions. We defined a novel parameter called the autism gene percentage as autism-specific knowledge to further facilitate the identification of autism-specific biomarker miRNAs. Finally, 11 miRNAs were screened as putative autism biomarkers, where eight miRNAs (72.7%) were significantly dysregulated in ASD samples according to previous reports. Functional enrichment results indicated that the targets of the identified miRNAs were enriched in autism-associated pathways, such as Wnt signaling (in KEGG and IPA), cell cycle (in KEGG), and glioblastoma multiforme signaling (in IPA), thereby supporting the predictive power of our model.
One-pot synthesis of carbon supported calcined-Mg/Al layered double hydroxides for antibiotic removal by slow pyrolysis of biomass waste
Authors: Tan Xiaofei , Liu Shaobo , Liu Yunguo , Gu Yanling , Zeng Guangming , Cai Xiaoxi , Yan ZhiLi , Yang Chunping , Hu Xinjiang , Chen Bo
Published: December 2016

A biochar supported calcined-Mg/Al layered double hydroxides composite (CLDHs/BC) was synthesized by a one-pot slow pyrolysis of LDHs preloaded bagasse biomass. Multiple characterizations of the product illustrated that the calcined-Mg/Al layered double hydroxides (CLDHs) were successfully coated onto the biochar in slow pyrolysis of pre-treated biomass. The as-synthesized CLDHs/BC could efficiently remove antibiotic tetracycline from aqueous solutions. The coating of CLDHs significantly increased the adsorption ability of biochar, and CLDHs/BC exhibited more than 2 times higher adsorption capacity than that of the pristine biochar (BC) in the tested pH range. The maximum adsorption capacity of CLDHs/BC for tetracycline was 1118.12 mg/g at 318 K. The experimental results suggested that the interaction with LDHs on biochar played a dominant role in tetracycline adsorption, accompanied with π–π interaction and hydrogen bond. This study provides a feasible and simple approach for the preparation of high-performance material for antibiotics contaminated wastewater treatment in a cost-effective way.
BACH1 Promotes Temozolomide Resistance in Glioblastoma through Antagonizing the Function of p53
Authors: Nie Er , Jin Xin , Wu Weining , Yu Tianfu , Zhou Xu , Zhi Tongle , Shi Zhumei , Zhang Junxia , Liu Ning , You Yongping
Published: December 2016

The acquisition of drug resistance is a persistent clinical problem limiting the successful treatment of glioblastoma (GBM). However, the molecular mechanisms by which initially chemoresponsive tumors develop therapeutic resistance remain poorly understood. In this study, we report that BACH1, a heme-binding protein that participates in transcriptional repression or activation, was significantly upregulated in glioblastoma tissues. Overexpression of BACH1 in GBM cells conferred resistance to temozolomide, whereas its inhibition markedly sensitized resistant cells to temozolomide in vitro and in vivo. Further investigation revealed that BACH1 activation significantly enhanced the expression of MGMT, and depletion of p53 disrupted the effects of BACH1 on MGMT and temozolomide resistance. P53 sequesters SP1 to prevent its binding to the MGMT promoter region and thus inhibits MGMT expression. Moreover, BACH1 overexpression impaired the association between p53 and SP1 via competitive binding p53, and antagonized the impact of p53 on MGMT expression. Finally, we found that BACH1 low expression correlated with better prognosis in GBM patients undergoing temozolomide therapy, especially in patients with wild-type TP53. Collectively, our findings identify a potential mechanism by which wild-type TP53 GBM cells develop resistance to temozolomide and suggest that targeting this pathway may be beneficial for overcoming resistance.
DNA biosensing with 3D printing technology
Authors: Loo Adeline Huiling , Chua Chun Kiang , Pumera Martin
Published: December 2016

Herein, the potential of employing 3D printing technology for the detection of DNA hybridization is assessed.
A method employing SPE, MRM LC-MS/MS and a THF–water solvent system for the simultaneous determination of five antiretroviral drugs in human blood plasma
Authors: Mwando Elliott , Massele Amos , Sepako Enoch , Sichilongo Kwenga
Published: December 2016

A multiple reaction monitoring liquid chromatography – mass spectrometry method for the simultaneous determination of five antiretroviral drugs in human blood plasma.
A plasma untargeted metabolomic study of Chinese medicine Zhi-Zi-Da-Huang decoction intervention to alcohol-induced hepatic steatosis
Authors: Wu Huan , Wang Dan , Meng Jin , Wang Juanjuan , Feng Fang
Published: December 2016

A plasma untargeted metabolomic study of potential biomarkers which contribute to the therapeutic mechanism of ZZDHD on AHS rats.
Simultaneous determination of dopamine and ascorbic acid using β-cyclodextrin/Au nanoparticles/graphene-modified electrodes
Authors: Chang Zhu , Zhou Yanli , Hao Lijing , Hao Yuanqiang , Zhu Xu , Xu Maotian
Published: December 2016

A sensitive electrochemical platform was fabricated based on a nanocomposite for the simultaneous electrochemical detection of dopamine (DA) and ascorbic acid (AA).
Use of a redox probe for an electrochemical RNA–ligand binding assay in microliter droplets
Authors: Guyon Hélène , Mavré François , Catala Marjorie , Turcaud Serge , Brachet Franck , Limoges Benoît , Tisné Carine , Micouin Laurent
Published: December 2016

The interaction between unlabeled RNA and ligands can be monitored by electrochemistry using a redox probe as a spy reporter.
The synergistic effect between KLVFF and self-assembly chaperones on both disaggregation of beta-amyloid fibrils and reducing consequent toxicity
Authors: Qu Aoting , Huang Fan , Li Ang , Yang Huiru , Zhou Hao , Long Jiafu , Shi Linqi
Published: December 2016

A new synergistic system combining KLVFF peptide and self-assembly chaperone can synchronize disaggregating amyloid fibrils and reducing consequent toxicity.
Synthesis of chiral (tetrazolyl)methyl-containing acrylates via silicon-induced organocatalytic kinetic resolution of Morita–Baylis–Hillman fluorides
Authors: Nishimine Takayuki , Taira Hiromi , Mori Satoru , Matsubara Okiya , Tokunaga Etsuko , Akiyama Hidehiko , Soloshonok Vadim A. , Shibata Norio
Published: December 2016

A new approach for the asymmetric installation of a (tetrazolyl)methyl group via Si/F activation using organocatalytic kinetic resolution of racemic MBH-fluorides.
Sulfur dioxide prodrugs: triggered release of SO2via a click reaction
Authors: Wang Wenyi , Ji Xingyue , Du Zhenming , Wang Binghe
Published: December 2016

SO2prodrugs activated by a bioorthogonal click reaction with tunable release rates.
Thermo- and electro-dual responsive poly(ionic liquid) electrolyte based smart windows
Authors: Chen Fei , Ren Yongyuan , Guo Jiangna , Yan Feng
Published: December 2016

A thermo- and electro-dual responsive poly(ionic liquid) electrolyte based smart window system shows both tunable transparency and electrochromic properties.
Fullerene-free polymer solar cells processed from non-halogenated solvents in air with PCE of 4.8%
Authors: Dayneko Sergey V. , Hendsbee Arthur D. , Welch Gregory C.
Published: December 2016

Progress towards practical organic solar cells amenable to large scale production is reported.
Biomimetically crystallized protease resistant zinc phosphate decorated with gold atomic clusters for bioimaging
Authors: Dutta Anushree , Dutta Deepanjalee , Sanpui Pallab , Chattopadhyay Arun
Published: December 2016

Biomimetically crystallized zinc phosphate nanoparticles act as host to protein fragment-stabilized Au nanoclusters for efficient bioimaging.
Preparation and use of DMF-stabilized iridium nanoclusters as methylation catalysts using methanol as the C1 source
Authors: Oikawa Kei , Itoh Satoshi , Yano Hiroki , Kawasaki Hideya , Obora Yasushi
Published: December 2016

DMF-stabilized Ir nanoclusters showed an efficient catalytic activity in the β-methylation of alcohols using methanol as the C1 source.
An antimicrobial peptide with an aggregation-induced emission (AIE) luminogen for studying bacterial membrane interactions and antibacterial actions
Authors: Li Ning Ning , Li Jun Zhi , Liu Peng , Pranantyo Dicky , Luo Lei , Chen Jiu Cun , Kang En-Tang , Hu Xue Feng , Li Chang Ming , Xu Li Qun
Published: December 2016

A fluorescence technique to investigate the interactions between bacterial membranes and an AIE luminogen-decorated antimicrobial peptide has been reported.
In operando observation of sodium ion diffusion in a layered sodium transition metal oxide cathode material, P2 NaxCo0.7Mn0.3O2
Authors: Birgisson Steinar , Shen Yanbin , Iversen Bo B.
Published: December 2016

A cooperative diffusion mechanism of sodium ions in layered P2 sodium transition metal oxide is observed by in operando powder X-ray diffraction.
Enhancing the low-energy absorption band and charge mobility of antiaromatic NiII norcorroles by their substituent effects
Authors: Yoshida Takuya , Sakamaki Daisuke , Seki Shu , Shinokubo Hiroshi
Published: December 2016

Dissymmetrical substitution of norcorrole enables the preparation of various norcorrole derivatives as air- and moisture-stable species.
In situ supramolecular polymerization promoted by the marriage of dynamic covalent bonding and pillar[5]arene-based host–guest interaction
Authors: Chen Panpan , Zhou Yujuan , Yang Jie
Published: December 2016

A temperature and pH dual-responsive linear supramolecular polymer was efficiently constructed by unifying dynamic covalent bonding and pillar[5]arene-based host–guest interaction throughin situsupramolecular polymerization.
Reactions in silicon–nitrogen plasma
Authors: Kovačević Goran , Pivac Branko
Published: December 2016

Reactions that take place in silane–ammonia plasma are analysed in detail. These reactions are of fundamental importance since they are the elementary reactions for forming the silicon–nitrogen bond. These results not only explain kinetics of gas phase reactions, but also reactions that are responsible for the growth of silicon nitride, an industrially important material.
Incorporation of aspirin modulates the dynamical and phase behavior of the phospholipid membrane
Authors: Sharma V. K. , Mamontov E. , Ohl M. , Tyagi M.
Published: December 2016

Effect of aspirin on the microscopic dynamics of a membrane has been investigated using quasielastic neutron scattering and neutron spin echo techniques.
Thermal transport across nanoparticle–fluid interfaces: the interplay of interfacial curvature and nanoparticle–fluid interactions
Authors: Tascini Anna Sofia , Armstrong Jeff , Chiavazzo Eliodoro , Fasano Matteo , Asinari Pietro , Bresme Fernando
Published: December 2016

A general and effective equation describes the thermal conductance of nanoparticles in terms of curvature and interaction strength.
Connectivity pattern modifies excited state relaxation dynamics of fluorophore–photoswitch molecular dyads
Authors: Schweighöfer F. , Moreno J. , Bobone S. , Chiantia S. , Herrmann A. , Hecht S. , Wachtveitl J.
Published: December 2016

Systematic variation of the orientation and distance in donor–bridge–acceptor compounds allows tuning of energy vs. electron transfer and provides a detailed view of the underlying molecular mechanisms.
Zeolite molecular accessibility and host–guest interactions studied by adsorption of organic probes of tunable size
Authors: Hendriks F. C. , Valencia D. , Bruijnincx P. C. A. , Weckhuysen B. M.
Published: December 2016

Fluorescent probe molecules of different sizes were synthesized and applied to study the molecular accessibility of zeolite materials.
The electronic character of PTCDA thin films in comparison to other perylene-based organic semi-conductors: ab initio-, TD-DFT and semi-empirical computations of the opto-electronic properties of large aggregates
Authors: Bellinger Daniel , Pflaum Jens , Brüning Christoph , Engel Volker , Engels Bernd
Published: December 2016

The electronic structure of crystalline PTCDA in comparison to other perylene-based organic semi-conductors.
Gold-supported two-dimensional cobalt oxyhydroxide (CoOOH) and multilayer cobalt oxide islands
Authors: Fester Jakob , Walton Alex , Li Zheshen , Lauritsen Jeppe V.
Published: December 2016

Synthesis and characterization of layered cobalt oxides for model studies of electrochemical water splitting catalysts.
Mechanism and kinetics of the electrocatalytic reaction responsible for the high cost of hydrogen fuel cells
Authors: Cheng Tao , Goddard William A , An Qi , Xiao Hai , Merinov Boris , Morozov Sergey
Published: December 2016

Free energy barrier as a function of applied potential for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction (ORR) on Pt(111) surface.
Focused electron beam based direct-write fabrication of graphene and amorphous carbon from oxo-functionalized graphene on silicon dioxide
Authors: Schindler Severin , Vollnhals Florian , Halbig Christian E. , Marbach Hubertus , Steinrück Hans-Peter , Papp Christian , Eigler Siegfried
Published: December 2016

Patterning of graphene by focused electron beam based direct-write fabrication of graphene and amorphous carbon from oxo-functionalized graphene is presented.
Strong current polarization and perfect negative differential resistance in few-FeN4-embedded zigzag graphene nanoribbons
Authors: Li Xiao-Fei , Liu Lingling , Yan Qing , Li Qin-Kun , Wang Yunxiang , Deng Mingsen , Qiu Qi
Published: December 2016

The FeN4-embedded graphene nanoribbons possess intrinsic current polarization and negative differential resistance behaviours, the performance of which can be enhanced easily.
Coligand modifications fine-tuned the structure and magnetic properties of two triple-bridged azido-Cu(ii) chain compounds exhibiting ferromagnetic ordering and slow relaxation
Authors: Liu Xiangyu , Li Feifei , Ma Xiaohui , Cen Peipei , Luo Shuchang , Shi Quan , Ma Shenru , Wu Yuewei , Zhang Chengcheng , Xu Zhao , Song Weiming , Xie Gang , Chen Sanping
Published: December 2016

Two triple-bridged azido-Cu(ii) compounds with different benzoates as coligands exhibit distinct magnetic properties.
Half-sandwich lanthanide crown ether complexes with the slow relaxation of magnetization and photoluminescence behaviors
Authors: Gao Feng , Yang Feng-Lei , Feng Xiaowan , Xu Huimin , Sun Wang , Liu Huan , Li Xiu-Ling
Published: December 2016

Four half-sandwich lanthanide crown ether complexes were successfully synthesized and structurally characterized. Dysprosium complexes show both the slow relaxation of magnetization and photoluminescence behaviors.
From millimetres to metres: the critical role of current density distributions in photo-electrochemical reactor design
Authors: Hankin A. , Bedoya-Lora F. E. , Ong C. K. , Alexander J. C. , Petter F. , Kelsall G. H.
Published: December 2016

0.1 × 0.1 m2 tin-doped hematite photo-anodes were fabricated on titanium substrates by spray pyrolysis and deployed in a photo-electrochemical reactor for photo-assisted splitting of water into hydrogen and oxygen.
Field induced anomalous spreading, oscillation, ejection, spinning, and breaking of oil droplets on a strongly slipping water surface
Authors: Kumar Sunny , Sarma Bhaskarjyoti , Dasmahapatra Ahsok Kumar , Dalal Amaresh , Basu Dipankar Narayan , Bandyopadhyay Dipankar
Published: December 2016

Application of an electric field on an oil droplet floating on the surface of a deionized water bath showed interesting motions such as spreading, oscillation, and ejection. The electric field was generated by connecting a pointed platinum cathode at the top of the oil droplet and a copper anode coated with polymer at the bottom of the water layer. The experimental setup mimicked a conventional electrowetting setup with the exception that the oil was spread on a soft and deformable water isolator. While at relatively lower field intensities we observed spreading of the droplet, at intermediate field intensities the droplet oscillated around the platinum cathode, before ejecting out at a speed as high as ∼5 body lengths per second at even stronger field intensities. The experiments suggested that when the electric field was ramped up abruptly to a particular voltage, any of the spreading, oscillation, or ejection motions of the droplet could be engendered at lower, intermediate and higher field intensities, respectively. However, when the field was ramped up progressively by increasing by a definite amount of voltage per unit time, all three aforementioned motions could be generated simultaneously with the increase in the field intensity. Interestingly, when the aforementioned setup was placed on a magnet, the droplet showed a rotational motion under the influence of the Lorentz force, which was generated because of the coupling of the weak leakage current with the externally applied magnetic field. The spreading, oscillation, ejection, and rotation of the droplet were found to be functions of the oil–water interfacial tension, viscosity, and size of the oil droplet. We developed simple theoretical models to explain the experimental results obtained. Importantly, rotating at a higher speed broke the droplet into a number of smaller ones, owing to the combined influence of the spreading due to the centripetal force and the shear at the oil–water interface. While the oscillatory and rotational motions of the incompressible droplet could be employed as stirrers or impellers inside microfluidic devices for mixing applications, the droplet ejection could be employed for futuristic applications such as payload transport or drug delivery.
Electrochemical plasmonic metamaterials: towards fast electro-tuneable reflecting nanoshutters
Authors: Sikdar Debabrata , Bucher Alwin , Zagar Cristian , Kornyshev Alexei A.
Published: December 2016

Self-assembling arrays of metallic nanoparticles at liquid|liquid or liquid|solid interfaces could deliver new platforms for tuneable optical systems. Such systems can switch between very-high and very-low reflectance states upon assembly and disassembly of nanoparticles at the interface, respectively. This encourages creation of electro-variably reversible mirror/window nanoplasmonic devices. However, the response time of these systems is usually limited by the rate-of-diffusion of the nanoparticles in the liquid, towards the interface and back. A large time-constant implies slow switching of the system, challenging the practical viability of such a system. Here we introduce a smart alternative to overcome this issue. We propose obtaining fast switching via electrically-induced rotation of a two-dimensional array of metal nanocuboids tethered to an ITO substrate. By applying potential to the ITO electrode the orientation of nanocuboids can be altered, which results in conversion of a highly-reflective nanoparticle layer into a transparent layer (or vice versa) within sub-second timescales. A theoretical method is developed based on the quasi-static effective-medium approach to analyse the optical response of such arrays, which is verified against full-wave simulations. Further theoretical analysis and estimates based on the potential energy of the nanoparticles in the two orientations corroborate the idea that voltage-controlled switching between the two states of a nanoparticle assembly is a viable option.
Greener solvents for solid-phase synthesis
Authors: Lawrenson Stefan , North Michael , Peigneguy Fanny , Routledge Anne
Published: December 2016

The use of a range of green solvents to swell a diverse range of resins used in solid-phase synthesis is investigated.
Patterning of sharp cellular interfaces with a reconfigurable elastic substrate
Authors: Curtis Allison , Li David J. , DeVeale Brian , Onishi Kento , Kim Monica Y. , Blelloch Robert , Laird Diana J. , Hui Elliot E.
Published: December 2016

This simple device employs an elastic substrate to pattern a sharp border between two adjoining cell populations.
Fabrication of Cu2MSnS4 (M = Co2+, Ni2+) nanocrystal thin films and their application in photodetectors
Authors: Liu Kaisi , Yao Bin , Li Yongfeng , Ding Zhanhui , Xiao Zhenyu , Jiang Yuhong , Wang Gang , Pan Daocheng
Published: December 2016

Cu2CoSnS4 and Cu2NiSnS4 nanocrystal thin films and selenized films are prepared using a simple and low-cost solution process, and demonstrated a strong and reversible photoresponse performance.
Mechanochemistry for facilitated access to N,N-diaryl NHC metal complexes
Authors: Beillard Audrey , Bantreil Xavier , Métro Thomas-Xavier , Martinez Jean , Lamaty Frédéric
Published: December 2016

A solvent-free synthesis of NHC–silver, gold, copper and palladium complexes in a ball-mill was achieved.
White-light emission from simple AIE–ESIPT-excimer tripled single molecular system
Authors: Samanta Soham , Manna Utsab , Das Gopal
Published: December 2016

A rationally designed simple organic molecule exhibits white-light emission in methanol/water and acetonitrile/water mixtures.
Application of graphene quantum dots functionalized with thymine and thymine-appended zinc phthalocyanine as novel photoluminescent nanoprobes
Authors: Achadu Ojodomo J. , Nyokong Tebello
Published: December 2016

Thymine Zn phthalocyanine turned off the fluorescence of graphene quantum dots, which was subsequently turned on by Hg2+ for its sensitive detection.
A new ESIPT-based fluorescent probe for highly selective and sensitive detection of hydrogen sulfide and its application in live-cell imaging
Authors: Chen Bo , Huang Jing , Geng Huiqing , Xuan Lingli , Xu Tengfei , Li Xin , Han Yifeng
Published: December 2016

A new ESIPT-based fluorescent probe for the sensitive detection of hydrogen sulfide has been reasonably designed and developed.
B-Hb⋯π interactions in benzene–borazine sandwich and multidecker complexes: a DFT study
Authors: Bhattacharyya Pradip Kr.
Published: December 2016

Multidecker complexes of benzene/borazine can be formed through B-Hb⋯π interactions.
Copolymers of carbazole and phenazine derivatives: minor structural modification, but totally different photodetector performance
Authors: Li Shuang , Deng Xianyu , Feng Lei , Miao Xincheng , Tang Kuangyi , Li Qianqian , Li Zhen
Published: December 2016

Through the subtle modification of the molecular structure, four donor–acceptor type conjugated polymers were designed, and demonstrated very different device performances with the highest photodetectivity achieved up to 6.2 × 1012 Jones.
New insight into the polymerization mechanism of 1,3-dienes cationic polymerization. IV. Mechanism of unsaturation loss in the polymerization of isoprene
Authors: Rozentsvet Victor A. , Kozlov Valery G. , Sablina Nelly A. , Stotskaya Olesya A. , Peruch Frederic , Kostjuk Sergei V.
Published: December 2016

The mechanism of obtaining a polymer with reduced unsaturation is proposed, which includes the formation of branched structures.
Polypeptides by light: photo-polymerization of N-carboxyanhydrides (NCA)
Authors: Stukenkemper T. , Jansen J. F. G. A. , Lavilla C. , Dias A. A. , Brougham D. F. , Heise A.
Published: December 2016

Synthesis of well-defined synthetic polypeptides by in situ UV-triggered formation of amine initiators.
Cationic and dicationic 1,2,3-triazolium-based poly(ethylene glycol ionic liquid)s
Authors: Obadia Mona M. , Jourdain Antoine , Serghei Anatoli , Ikeda Taichi , Drockenmuller Eric
Published: December 2016

We report the synthesis and in-depth characterization of two novel poly(ionic liquid)s having poly(ethylene glycol) main chains and side chains having either one or two 1,2,3-triazolium cations with triethylene glycol spacers and bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide counter anion(s).
A hierarchical CoFe-layered double hydroxide modified carbon-felt cathode for heterogeneous electro-Fenton process
Authors: Ganiyu Soliu O. , Huong Le Thi Xuan , Bechelany Mikhael , Esposito Giovanni , van Hullebusch Eric D. , Oturan Mehmet A. , Cretin Marc
Published: December 2016

LDH films are directly grown on carbon felt to act as a high-performance heterogeneous catalyst for efficient EF mineralization of organics at near-neutral pH.