bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RNA editing generates cellular subsets with diverse sequence within populations
Authors: Harjanto Dewi , Papamarkou Theodore , Oates Chris J. , Rayon-Estrada Violeta , Papavasiliou F. Nina , Papavasiliou Anastasia
Published: July 2016

RNA editing is a mutational mechanism that specifically alters the nucleotide content in transcribed RNA. However, editing rates vary widely, and could result from equivalent editing amongst individual cells, or represent an average of variable editing within a population. Here we present a hierarchical Bayesian model that quantifies the variance of editing rates at specific sites using RNA-seq data from both single cells, and a cognate bulk sample to distinguish between these two possibilities. The model predicts high variance for specific edited sites in murine macrophages and dendritic cells, findings that we validated experimentally by using targeted amplification of specific editable transcripts from single cells. The model also predicts changes in variance in editing rates for specific sites in dendritic cells during the course of LPS stimulation. Our data demonstrate substantial variance in editing signatures amongst single cells, supporting the notion that RNA editing generates diversity within cellular populations.
BMP and retinoic acid regulate anterior–posterior patterning of the non-axial mesoderm across the dorsal–ventral axis
Authors: Naylor Richard W. , Skvarca Lauren Brilli , Thisse Christine , Thisse Bernard , Hukriede Neil A. , Davidson Alan J.
Published: July 2016

Despite the fundamental importance of patterning along the dorsal–ventral (DV) and anterior–posterior (AP) axes during embryogenesis, uncertainty exists in the orientation of these axes for the mesoderm. Here we examine the origin and formation of the zebrafish kidney, a ventrolateral mesoderm derivative, and show that AP patterning of the non-axial mesoderm occurs across the classic gastrula stage DV axis while DV patterning aligns along the animal–vegetal pole. We find that BMP signalling acts early to establish broad anterior and posterior territories in the non-axial mesoderm while retinoic acid (RA) functions later, but also across the classic DV axis. Our data support a model in which RA on the dorsal side of the embryo induces anterior kidney fates while posterior kidney progenitors are protected ventrally by the RA-catabolizing enzyme Cyp26a1. This work clarifies our understanding of vertebrate axis orientation and establishes a new paradigm for how the kidney and other mesodermal derivatives arise during embryogenesis.
Surface Wave Cloak from Graded Refractive Index Nanocomposites
Authors: La Spada L. , McManus T. M. , Dyke A. , Haq S. , Zhang L. , Cheng Q. , Hao Y.
Published: July 2016

Recently, a great deal of interest has been re-emerged on the possibility to manipulate surface waves, in particular, towards the THz and optical regime. Both concepts of Transformation Optics (TO) and metamaterials have been regarded as one of key enablers for such applications in applied electromagnetics. In this paper, we experimentally demonstrate for the first time a dielectric surface wave cloak from engineered gradient index materials to illustrate the possibility of using nanocomposites to control surface wave propagation through advanced additive manufacturing. The device is designed analytically and validated through numerical simulations and measurements, showing good agreement and performance as an effective surface wave cloak. The underlying design approach has much wider applications, which span from microwave to optics for the control of surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) and radiation of nanoantennas.
A general framework for the Quantum Zeno and anti-Zeno effects
Authors: Chaudhry Adam Zaman
Published: July 2016

Repeated measurements can slow down (the quantum Zeno effect) or speed up (the quantum anti-Zeno effect) the temporal evolution of a quantum system. In this paper, a general treatment of the quantum Zeno and anti-Zeno effects is presented which is valid for an arbitrary system-environment model in the weak system-environment coupling regime. It is shown that the effective lifetime of a quantum state that is subjected to repeated projective measurements depends on the overlap of the spectral density of the environment and a generalized ‘filter function’. This filter function depends on the system-environment Hamiltonian, the state of the environment and the measurement being performed. Our general framework is then used to study explicitly the Zeno to anti-Zeno crossover behaviour for the spin-boson model where a single two-level system is coupled to a bosonic environment. It is possible to not only reproduce results for the usual population decay case as well as for the pure dephasing model, but to also study the regime where both decay and dephasing take place. These results are then extended to many two-level systems coupled collectively to the bosonic environment to further illustrate the importance of the correct evaluation of the effective decay rate.
Developmental Validation of a novel 5 dye Y-STR System comprising the 27 YfilerPlus loci
Authors: Bai Rufeng , Liu Yaju , Li Zheng , Jin Haiying , Tian Qinghua , Shi Meisen , Ma Shuhua
Published: July 2016

In this study, a new STRtyper-27 system, including the same Yfiler Plus loci (DYS19, DYS389I, DYS389II, DYS390, DYS391, DYS392, DYS393, DYS385a/b, DYS437, DYS438, DYS439, DYS448, DYS456, DYS458, DYS635, Y-GATA H4, DYS449, DYS460, DYS481, DYS518, DYS533, DYS570, DYS576, DYS627 and DYF387S1a/b), was established using a set of 5 fluorescent dye labels. Primers, internal size standard, allelic ladders and matrix standard set were designed and created in-house for this multiplex system. This paper describes the validation studies conducted with the STRtyper-27Y system using a 3130XL genetic analyzer for fragment length detection that included the analysis of the following parameters and aspects: sensitivity, species specificity, inhibition, haplotype concordance, precision, stutter, DNA mixtures, and stability studies with crime scene samples. The studies demonstrated, that the STRtyper-27Y system provided equivalent overall performance comparable to the latest Yfiler Plus kit, but with enhanced compatibility in terms of instrument platforms and software allowing forensic laboratories to conduct its forensic application and evaluate its performance, all in their own 5 dye Y-STR chemistry system /environment without software or instrument upgrades.
Nanogenerators consisting of direct-grown piezoelectrics on multi-walled carbon nanotubes using flexoelectric effects
Authors: Han Jin Kyu , Jeon Do Hyun , Cho Sam Yeon , Kang Sin Wook , Yang Sun A. , Bu Sang Don , Myung Sung , Lim Jongsun , Choi Moonkang , Lee Minbaek , Lee Min Ku
Published: July 2016

We report the first attempt to prepare a flexoelectric nanogenerator consisting of direct-grown piezoelectrics on multi-walled carbon nanotubes (mwCNT). Direct-grown piezoelectrics on mwCNTs are formed by a stirring and heating method using a Pb(Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3 (PZT)-mwCNT precursor solution. We studied the unit cell mismatch and strain distribution of epitaxial PZT nanoparticles, and found that lattice strain is relaxed along the growth direction. A PZT-mwCNT nanogenerator was found to produce a peak output voltage of 8.6 V and an output current of 47 nA when a force of 20 N is applied. Direct-grown piezoelectric nanogenerators generate a higher voltage and current than simple mixtures of PZT and CNTs resulting from the stronger connection between PZT crystals and mwCNTs and an enhanced flexoelectric effect caused by the strain gradient. These experiments represent a significant step toward the application of nanogenerators using piezoelectric nanocomposite materials.
Construction of feasible and accurate kinetic models of metabolism: A Bayesian approach
Authors: Saa Pedro A. , Nielsen Lars K.
Published: July 2016

Kinetic models are essential to quantitatively understand and predict the behaviour of metabolic networks. Detailed and thermodynamically feasible kinetic models of metabolism are inherently difficult to formulate and fit. They have a large number of heterogeneous parameters, are non-linear and have complex interactions. Many powerful fitting strategies are ruled out by the intractability of the likelihood function. Here, we have developed a computational framework capable of fitting feasible and accurate kinetic models using Approximate Bayesian Computation. This framework readily supports advanced modelling features such as model selection and model-based experimental design. We illustrate this approach on the tightly-regulated mammalian methionine cycle. Sampling from the posterior distribution, the proposed framework generated thermodynamically feasible parameter samples that converged on the true values and displayed remarkable prediction accuracy in several validation tests. Furthermore, a posteriori analysis of the parameter distributions enabled appraisal of the systems properties of the network (e.g., control structure) and key metabolic regulations. Finally, the framework was used to predict missing allosteric interactions.
Sex, Race, and Age Disparities in the Improvement of Survival for Gastrointestinal Cancer over Time
Authors: Wan Jue-feng , Yang Li-feng , Shen Yun-zhu , Jia Hui-xun , Zhu Ji , Li Gui-chao , Zhang Zhen
Published: July 2016

There have been notable improvements in survival over the past 2 decades for gastrointestinal (GI) cancer. However, the degree of improvement by age, race, and sex remains unclear. We analyzed data from 9 population-based cancer registries included in the SEER program of the National Cancer Institute (SEER 9) in 1990 to 2009 (n = 288,337). The degree of survival improvement over time by age, race, and sex was longitudinally measured. From 1990 to 2009, improvements in survival were greater for younger age groups. For patients aged 20 to 49 years and diagnosed from 2005 to 2009, adjusted HRs (95% CIs) were 0.74 (95% CI, 0.66–0.83), 0.49 (95% CI, 0.37–0.64), 0.69 (95% CI, 0.65–0.76), 0.62 (95% CI, 0.54–0.69), and 0.56 (95% CI, 0.42–0.76), for cancer of the stomach, small intestine, colon, rectum and anus, respectively, compared with the same age groups of patients diagnosed during 1990 to 1994. Compared with African Americans, whites experienced greater improvement in small intestinal and anal cancer survival. Female anal cancer and regional anal cancer patients experienced no improvement. Our data suggest that different improvement in survival in age, sex and race exists.
Hydra as a model organism to decipher the toxic effects of copper oxide nanorod: Eco-toxicogenomics approach
Authors: Murugadas Anbazhagan , Zeeshan Mohammed , Thamaraiselvi Kaliannan , Ghaskadbi Surendra , Akbarsha Mohammad Abdulkader
Published: July 2016

Nanotechnology has emerged as a powerful field of applied research. However, the potential toxicity of nano-materials is a cause of concern. A thorough toxicological investigation is required before a nanomaterial is evaluated for application of any kind. In this context, there is concerted effort to find appropriate test systems to assess the toxicity of nanomaterials. Toxicity of a nanomaterial greatly depends on its physicochemical properties and the biological system with which it interacts. The present research was carried out with a view to generate data on eco-toxicological impacts of copper oxide nanorod (CuO NR) inHydra magnipapillata105 at organismal, cellular and molecular levels. Exposure of hydra to CuO NR resulted in severe morphological alterations in a concentration- as well as duration-dependent manner. Impairment of feeding, population growth, and regeneration was also observed.In vivoandin vitroanalyses revealed induction of oxidative stress, genotoxicity, and molecular machinery of apoptotic cell death, accompanied by disruption of cell cycle progression. Taken together, CuO nanorod is potentially toxic to the biological systems. Also, hydra offers potential to be used as a convenient model organism for aquatic ecotoxicological risk assessment of nanomaterials.
Liver X receptor and STAT1 cooperate downstream of Gas6/Mer to induce anti-inflammatory arginase 2 expression in macrophages
Authors: Kim Si-Yoon , Lim Eun-Jin , Yoon Young-So , Ahn Young-Ho , Park Eun-Mi , Kim Hee-Sun , Kang Jihee Lee
Published: July 2016

Mer signaling increases the transcriptional activity of liver X receptor (LXR) to promote the resolution of acute sterile inflammation. Here, we aimed to understand the pathway downstream of Mer signaling after growth arrest-specific protein 6 (Gas6) treatment that leads to LXR expression and transcriptional activity in mouse bone-marrow derived macrophages (BMDM). Gas6-induced increases in LXRα and LXRβ and expression of their target genes were inhibited in BMDM from STAT1−/− mice or by the STAT1-specific inhibitor fludarabine. Gas6-induced STAT1 phosphorylation, LXR activation, and LXR target gene expression were inhibited in BMDM from Mer−/− mice or by inhibition of PI3K or Akt. Gas6-induced Akt phosphorylation was inhibited in BMDM from STAT1−/− mice or in the presence of fludarabine. Gas6-induced LXR activity was enhanced through an interaction between LXRα and STAT1 on the DNA promoter of Arg2. Additionally, we found that Gas6 inhibited lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced nitrite production in a STAT1 and LXR pathway-dependent manner in BMDM. Additionally, Mer-neutralizing antibody reduced LXR and Arg2 expression in lung tissue and enhanced NO production in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid in LPS-induced acute lung injury. Our data suggest the possibility that the Gas6-Mer-PI3K/Akt-STAT1-LXR-Arg2 pathway plays an essential role for resolving inflammatory response in acute lung injury.
Obtaining Human Ischemic Stroke Gene Expression Biomarkers from Animal Models: A Cross-species Validation Study
Authors: Wang Yingying , Cai Yunpeng
Published: July 2016

Recent studies have revealed the systematic altering of gene expression in human peripheral blood during the early stages of ischemic stroke, which suggests a new potential approach for the rapid diagnosis or prediction of stroke onset. Nevertheless, due to the difficulties of collecting human samples during proper disease stages, related studies are rather restricted. Many studies have instead been performed on manipulated animal models for investigating the regulation patterns of biomarkers during different stroke stages. An important inquiry is how well the findings of animal models can be replicated in human cases. Here, a method is proposed based on PageRank scores of miRNA-mRNA interaction network to select ischemic stroke biomarkers derived from rat brain samples, and biomarkers are validated with two human peripheral blood gene expression datasets. Hierarchical clustering results revealed that the achieved biomarkers clearly separate the blood gene expression of stroke patients and healthy people. Literature searches and functional analyses further validated the biological significance of these biomarkers. Compared to the traditional methods, such as differential expression, the proposed approach is more stable and accurate in detecting cross-species biomarkers with biological relevance, thereby suggesting an efficient approach of re-using gene biomarkers obtained from animal-model studies for human diseases.
Rotavirus acceleration of type 1 diabetes in non-obese diabetic mice depends on type I interferon signalling
Authors: Pane Jessica A. , Fleming Fiona E. , Graham Kate L. , Thomas Helen E. , Kay Thomas W. H. , Coulson Barbara S.
Published: July 2016

Rotavirus infection is associated with childhood progression to type 1 diabetes. Infection by monkey rotavirus RRV accelerates diabetes onset in non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice, which relates to regional lymph node infection and a T helper 1-specific immune response. When stimulated ex vivo with RRV, plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) from naïve NOD mice secrete type I interferon, which induces the activation of bystander lymphocytes, including islet-autoreactive T cells. This is our proposed mechanism for diabetes acceleration by rotaviruses. Here we demonstrate bystander lymphocyte activation in RRV-infected NOD mice, which showed pDC activation and strong upregulation of interferon-dependent gene expression, particularly within lymph nodes. The requirement for type I interferon signalling was analysed using NOD mice lacking a functional type I interferon receptor (NOD.IFNAR1−/− mice). Compared with NOD mice, NOD.IFNAR1−/− mice showed 8-fold higher RRV titers in lymph nodes and 3-fold higher titers of total RRV antibody in serum. However, RRV-infected NOD.IFNAR1−/− mice exhibited delayed pDC and lymphocyte activation, no T helper 1 bias in RRV-specific antibodies and unaltered diabetes onset when compared with uninfected controls. Thus, the type I interferon signalling induced by RRV infection is required for bystander lymphocyte activation and accelerated type 1 diabetes onset in genetically susceptible mice.
Dissection of genetic architecture of rice plant height and heading date by multiple-strategy-based association studies
Authors: Zhou Liyuan , Liu Shouye , Wu Weixun , Chen Daibo , Zhan Xiaodeng , Zhu Aike , Zhang Yingxin , Cheng Shihua , Cao Liyong , Lou Xiangyang , Xu Haiming
Published: July 2016

Xieyou9308 is a certified super hybrid rice cultivar with a high grain yield. To investigate its underlying genetic basis of high yield potential, a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population derived from the cross between the maintainer line XieqingzaoB (XQZB) and the restorer line Zhonghui9308 (ZH9308) was constructed for identification of quantitative trait SNPs (QTSs) associated with two important agronomic traits, plant height (PH) and heading date (HD). By re-sequencing of 138 recombinant inbred lines (RILs), a total of ~0.7 million SNPs were identified for the association studies on the PH and HD. Three association mapping strategies (including hypothesis-free genome-wide association and its two complementary hypothesis-engaged ones, QTL-based association and gene-based association) were adopted for data analysis. Using a saturated mixed linear model including epistasis and environmental interaction, we identified a total of 31 QTSs associated with either the PH or the HD. The total estimated heritability across three analyses ranged from 37.22% to 45.63% and from 37.53% to 55.96% for the PH and HD, respectively. In this study we examined the feasibility of association studies in an experimental population (RIL) and identified several common loci through multiple strategies which could be preferred candidates for further research.
TRAIP is involved in chromosome alignment and SAC regulation in mouse oocyte meiosis
Authors: Yuan Yi-Feng , Ren Yi-Xin , Yuan Peng , Yan Li-Ying , Qiao Jie
Published: July 2016

Recent whole-exome sequencing (WES) studies demonstrated that TRAIP is associated with primordial dwarfism. Although TRAIP was partially studied in mitosis, its function in oocyte meiosis remained unknown. In this study, we investigated the roles of TRAIP during mouse oocyte meiosis. TRAIP was stably expressed during oocytes meiosis and co-localized with CREST at the centromere region. Knockdown of TRAIP led to DNA damage, as revealed by the appearance of γH2AX. Although oocytes meiotic maturation was not affected, the proportions of misaligned chromosomes and aneuploidy were elevated after TRAIP knockdown, suggesting TRAIP is required for stable kinetochore–microtubule (K-MT) attachment. TRAIP knockdown decreased the accumulation of Mad2 on centromeres, potentially explaining why oocyte maturation was not affected following formation of DNA lesions. Securin, a protein which was prevent from precocious degradation by Mad2, was down-regulated after TRAIP knockdown. Inhibition of TRAIP by microinjection of antibody into pro-metaphase I (pro-MI) stage oocytes resulted in precocious first polar body (PB1) extrusion, and live-cell imaging clearly revealed misaligned chromosomes after TRAIP knockdown. Taken together, these data indicate that TRAIP plays important roles in oocyte meiosis regulation.
Isotropic plasticity of β-type Ti-29Nb-13Ta-4.6Zr alloy single crystals for the development of single crystalline β-Ti implants
Authors: Hagihara Koji , Nakano Takayoshi , Maki Hideaki , Umakoshi Yukichi , Niinomi Mitsuo
Published: July 2016

β-type Ti-29Nb-13Ta-4.6Zr alloy is a promising novel material for biomedical applications. We have proposed a ‘single crystalline β-Ti implant’ as new hard tissue replacements for suppressing the stress shielding by achieving a drastic reduction in the Young’s modulus. To develop this, the orientation dependence of the plastic deformation behavior of the Ti-29Nb-13Ta-4.6Zr single crystal was first clarified. Dislocation slip with a Burgers vector parallel to <111> was the predominant deformation mode in the wide loading orientation. The orientation dependence of the yield stress due to <111> dislocations was small, in contrast to other β-Ti alloys. In addition, {332} twin was found to be operative at the loading orientation around [001]. The asymmetric features of the {332} twin formation depending on the loading orientation could be roughly anticipated by their Schmid factors. However, the critical resolved shear stress for the {332} twins appeared to show orientation dependence. The simultaneous operation of <111> slip and {332} twin were found to be the origin of the good mechanical properties with excellent strength and ductility. It was clarified that the Ti-29Nb-13Ta-4.6Zr alloy single crystal shows the “plastically almost-isotropic and elastically highly-anisotropic” nature, that is desirable for the development of ‘single crystalline β-Ti implant’.
Integration analysis of MKK and MAPK family members highlights potential MAPK signaling modules in cotton
Authors: Zhang Xueying , Xu Xiaoyang , Yu Yujia , Chen Chuan , Wang Jing , Cai Caiping , Guo Wangzhen
Published: July 2016

Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades play a crucial role in plant growth and development, as well as their biotic and abiotic stress responses. As a nodal point of the MAPK cascade, the MKK gene family has not been systematically studied in cotton. Here, we identified 11 putative MKK genes in the Gossypium raimondii genome. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the MKKs were supported by architectures of conserved protein motifs. Expression patterns of MKKs under hormone treatments or abiotic stresses revealed their diverse functions in stress responses. Based on a yeast two hybrid, a total of 63 interactive pairs of MKKs and MAPKs were identified in cotton. Among these, 40 interactive pairs were newly identified compared to that reported previously in Arabidopsis. Integration analysis of the interaction network and expression patterns of MKK and MAPK family members revealed 13 potential MAPK signaling modules that are involved in the complicated cross-talk between hormones and abiotic stresses. Taken together, our data enhance the understanding of the evolution and function of MAPK cascades in cotton, and lay the foundation for the improvement of various defense responses that use MAPK signaling modules in the future.
Strip-Pattern-Spheres Self-Assembled from Polypeptide-Based Polymer Mixtures: Structure and Defect Features
Authors: Zhu Xingyu , Guan Zhou , Lin Jiaping , Cai Chunhua
Published: July 2016

We found that poly(γ-benzyl-L-glutamate)-block-poly(ethylene glycol) (PBLG-b-PEG) rod-coil block copolymers and polystyrene (PS) homopolymers can cooperatively self-assemble into nano-spheres with striped patterns on their surfaces (strip-pattern-spheres) in aqueous solution. With assistance of dissipative particle dynamics simulation, it is discovered that the PS homopolymers form a spherical template core and the PBLG-b-PEG block copolymers assemble into striped patterns on the spherical surface. The hydrophobic PBLG rods are packed orderly in the strips, while the hydrophilic PEG blocks stabilize the strip-pattern-spheres in solution. Defects such as dislocations and disclinations can be observed in the striped patterns. Self-assembling temperature and sphere radius are found to affect defect densities in the striped patterns. A possible mechanism is proposed to illustrate how PBLG-b-PEG and PS cooperatively self-assemble into hierarchical spheres with striped patterns on surfaces.
Wound healing profiles of hyperopic-small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE)
Authors: Liu Yu-Chi , Ang Heng Pei , Teo Ericia Pei Wen , Lwin Nyein Chan , Yam Gary Hin Fai , Mehta Jodhbir S.
Published: July 2016

Refractive surgical treatment of hyperopia still remains a challenge for refractive surgeons. A new nomogram of small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) procedure has recently been developed for the treatment of hyperopia. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the wound healing and inflammatory responses of this new nomogram (hyperopic-SMILE), and compared them to those of hyperopic-laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK), using a rabbit model. A total of 26 rabbits were used, and slit lamp biomicroscopy, autorefractor/keratometer, intraocular pressure measurement, anterior segment optical coherence tomography, corneal topography, and in vivo confocal microscopy examinations were performed during the study period of 4 weeks. The corneas were then harvested and subject to immunofluorescence of markers for inflammation (CD11b), wound healing (fibronectin) and keratocyte response (HSP47). The lenticule ultrastructual changes were also analyzed by transmission electron microscopy. Out results showed that hyperopic-SMILE effectively steepened the cornea. Compared to hyperopic-LASIK, hyperopic-SMILE had less postoperative wound healing response and stromal interface reaction, especially in higher refractive correction. However, compared to myopic-SMILE, hyperopic-SMILE resulted in more central deranged collagen fibrils. These results provide more perspective into this new treatment option for hyperopia, and evidence for future laser nomogram modification.
A possible link between loading, inflammation and healing: Immune cell populations during tendon healing in the rat
Authors: Blomgran Parmis , Blomgran Robert , Ernerudh Jan , Aspenberg Per
Published: July 2016

Loading influences tendon healing and so does inflammation. We hypothesized that the two are connected. 48 rats underwent Achilles tendon transection. Half of the rats received Botox injections into calf muscles to reduce mechanical loading. Cells from the regenerating tissue were analyzed by flow cytometry. In the loaded group, the regenerating tissue contained 83% leukocytes (CD45+) day 1 and 23% day 10. The M1/M2 macrophage ratio (CCR7/CD206) peaked at day 3, while T helper (CD3+CD4+) and Treg cells (CD25+ Foxp3+) increased over time. With Botox, markers associated with down-regulation of inflammation were more common day 5 (CD163, CD206, CD25, Foxp3) and M1 or M2 macrophages and Treg cells were virtually absent day 10, while still present with full loading. The primary variable, CCR7/CD206 ratio day 5, was higher with full loading (p = 0.001) and the Treg cell fraction was lower (p < 0.001). Free cage activity loading is known to increase size and strength of the tendon in this model compared to Botox. Loading now appeared to delay the switch to an M2 type of inflammation with more Treg cells. It seems a prolonged M1 phase due to loading might make the tendon regenerate bigger.
Tyrosine Hydroxylase is crucial for maintaining pupal tanning and immunity in Anopheles sinensis
Authors: Qiao Liang , Du Minghui , Liang Xin , Hao Youjin , He Xiu , Si Fengling , Mei Ting , Chen Bin
Published: July 2016

Tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), the initial enzyme in the melanin pathway, catalyzes tyrosine conversion into Dopa. Although expression and regulation of TH have been shown to affect cuticle pigmentation in insects, no direct functional studies to date have focused on the specific physiological processes involving the enzyme during mosquito development. In the current study, silencing of AsTH during the time period of continuous high expression in Anopheles sinensis pupae led to significant impairment of cuticle tanning and thickness, imposing a severe obstacle to eclosion in adults. Meanwhile, deficiency of melanin in interference individuals led to suppression of melanization, compared to control individuals. Consequently, the ability to defend exogenous microorganisms declined sharply. Accompanying down-regulation of the basal expression of five antimicrobial peptide genes resulted in further significant weakening of immunity. TH homologs as well as the composition of upstream transcription factor binding sites at the pupal stage are highly conserved in the Anopheles genus, implying that the TH-mediated functions are crucial in Anopheles. The collective evidence strongly suggests that TH is essential for Anopheles pupae tanning and immunity and provides a reference for further studies to validate the utility of the key genes involved in the melanization pathway in controlling mosquito development.
Adding Stiffness to the Foot Modulates Soleus Force-Velocity Behaviour during Human Walking
Authors: Takahashi Kota Z. , Gross Michael T. , van Werkhoven Herman , Piazza Stephen J. , Sawicki Gregory S.
Published: July 2016

Previous studies of human locomotion indicate that foot and ankle structures can interact in complex ways. The structure of the foot defines the input and output lever arms that influences the force-generating capacity of the ankle plantar flexors during push-off. At the same time, deformation of the foot may dissipate some of the mechanical energy generated by the plantar flexors during push-off. We investigated this foot-ankle interplay during walking by adding stiffness to the foot through shoes and insoles and characterized the resulting changes in in vivo soleus muscle-tendon mechanics using ultrasonography. Added stiffness decreased energy dissipation at the foot (p < 0.001) and increased the gear ratio (i.e., ratio of ground reaction force and plantar flexor muscle lever arms) (p < 0.001). Added foot stiffness also altered soleus muscle behaviour, leading to greater peak force (p < 0.001) and reduced fascicle shortening speed (p < 0.001). Despite this shift in force-velocity behaviour, the whole-body metabolic cost during walking increased with added foot stiffness (p < 0.001). This increased metabolic cost is likely due to the added force demand on the plantar flexors, as walking on a more rigid foot/shoe surface compromises the plantar flexors’ mechanical advantage.
Tumourigenicity and Immunogenicity of Induced Neural Stem Cell Grafts Versus Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Grafts in Syngeneic Mouse Brain
Authors: Gao Mou , Yao Hui , Dong Qin , Zhang Hongtian , Yang Zhijun , Yang Yang , Zhu Jianwei , Xu Minhui , Xu Ruxiang
Published: July 2016

Along with the development of stem cell-based therapies for central nervous system (CNS) disease, the safety of stem cell grafts in the CNS, such as induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and induced neural stem cells (iNSCs), should be of primary concern. To provide scientific basis for evaluating the safety of these stem cells, we determined their tumourigenicity and immunogenicity in syngeneic mouse brain. Both iPSCs and embryonic stem cells (ESCs) were able to form tumours in the mouse brain, leading to tissue destruction along with immune cell infiltration. In contrast, no evidence of tumour formation, brain injury or immune rejection was observed with iNSCs, neural stem cells (NSCs) or mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). With the help of gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis, we detected significantly elevated levels of chemokines in the brain tissue and serum of mice that developed tumours after ESC or iPSC transplantation. Moreover, we also investigated the interactions between chemokines and NF-κB signalling and found that NF-κB activation was positively correlated with the constantly rising levels of chemokines, and vice versa. In short, iNSC grafts, which lacked any resulting tumourigenicity or immunogenicity, are safer than iPSC grafts.
Abundance and sinking of particulate black carbon in the western Arctic and Subarctic Oceans
Authors: Fang Ziming , Yang Weifeng , Chen Min , Zheng Minfang , Hu Wangjiang
Published: July 2016

The abundance and sinking of particulate black carbon (PBC) were examined for the first time in the western Arctic and Subarctic Oceans. In the central Arctic Ocean, high PBC concentrations with a mean of 0.021 ± 0.016 μmol L−1 were observed in the marginal ice zone (MIZ). A number of parameters, including temperature, salinity and 234Th/238U ratios, indicated that both the rapid release of atmospherically deposited PBC on sea ice and a slow sinking rate were responsible for the comparable PBC concentrations between the MIZ and mid-latitudinal Pacific Ocean (ML). On the Chukchi and Bering Shelves (CBS), PBC concentrations were also comparable to those obtained in the ML. Further, significant deficits of 234Th revealed the rapid sinking of PBC on the CBS. These results implied additional source terms for PBC in addition to atmospheric deposition and fluvial discharge on the western Arctic shelves. Based on 234Th/238U disequilibria, the net sinking rate of PBC out of the surface water was −0.8 ± 2.5 μmol m−3 d−1 (mean ± s.d.) in the MIZ. In contrast, on the shelves, the average sinking rate of PBC was 6.1 ± 4.6 μmol m−3 d−1. Thus, the western Arctic Shelf was probably an effective location for burying PBC.
Hybridized plasmon modes and near-field enhancement of metallic nanoparticle-dimer on a mirror
Authors: Huang Yu , Ma Lingwei , Hou Mengjing , Li Jianghao , Xie Zheng , Zhang Zhengjun
Published: July 2016

For the attractive plasmonic structure consisting of metal nanoparticles (NPs) on a mirror, the coexistence of near-field NP-NP and NP-mirror couplings is numerically studied at normal incidence. By mapping their 3D surface charge distributions directly, we have demonstrated two different kinds of mirror-induced bonding dipole plasmon modes and confirmed the bonding hybridizations of the mirror and the NP-dimer which may offer a much stronger near-field enhancement than that of the isolated NP dimers over a broad wavelength range. Further, it is revealed that the huge near-field enhancement of these two modes exhibit different dependence on the NP-NP and NP-mirror hot spots, while both of their near-field resonance wavelengths can be tuned to the blue exponentially by increasing the NP-NP gaps or the NP-mirror separation. Our results here benifit significantly the fundamental understanding and practical applications of metallic NPs on a mirror in plasmonics.
Deadly intentions: naïve introduced foxes show rapid attraction to odour cues of an unfamiliar native prey
Authors: Bytheway Jenna P. , Price Catherine J. , Banks Peter B.
Published: July 2016

Introduced predators have caused declines and extinctions of native species worldwide, seemingly able to find and hunt new, unfamiliar prey from the time of their introduction. Yet, just as native species are often naïve to introduced predators, in theory, introduced predators should initially be naïve in their response to novel native prey. Here we examine the response of free-living introduced red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) to their first encounter with the odour cues of a novel native prey, the long-nosed bandicoot (Perameles nasuta). Despite no experience with bandicoots at the study site, foxes were significantly more interested in bandicoot odour compared to untreated controls and to a co-evolved prey, the black rat (Rattus rattus). So what gives introduced predators a novelty advantage over native prey? Such neophilia towards novel potential food sources carries little costs, however naïve native prey often lack analogous neophobic responses towards novel predators, possibly because predator avoidance is so costly. We propose that this nexus between the costs and benefits of responding to novel information is different for alien predators and native prey, giving alien predators a novelty advantage over native prey. This may explain why some introduced predators have rapid and devastating impacts on native fauna.
Fmoc solid-phase synthesis of C-terminal modified peptides by formation of a backbone cyclic urethane moiety
Authors: Elashal Hader E. , Cohen Ryan D. , Raj Monika
Published: July 2016

A universal strategy for solid phase synthesis of various C-terminal modified peptides independent of type of resins, unnatural linkers, and handles is developed. Semi-permanent protection at the C-termini of peptides is also afforded by the method described.
Isoxazole mediated synthesis of 4-(1H)pyridones: improved preparation of antimalarial candidate GSK932121
Authors: Fernández Jorge , Chicharro Jesús , Bueno José M. , Lorenzo Milagros
Published: July 2016

A new synthesis of the antimalarial clinical candidate GSK932121 is described.
The self-similar character of the microscopic thermal fluctuation inside an argon–copper nanofluid
Authors: Jia T. , Gao D.
Published: July 2016

The microscopic thermal behavior inside an argon–copper nanofluid is investigated based on equilibrium molecular dynamics simulation.
A comparative study of AumRhn (4 ≤ m + n ≤ 6) clusters in the gas phase versus those deposited on (100) MgO
Authors: Buendía Fernando , Vargas Jorge A. , Beltrán Marcela R. , Davis Jack B. A. , Johnston Roy L.
Published: July 2016

The combined use of a genetic algorithm and Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations allows us to explore the potential energy surface. Our results show interesting effects on the geometries of the clusters on deposition. Two-dimensional clusters in the gas phase become three-dimensional and vice versa.
Stability of melamine-exfoliated graphene in aqueous media: quantum-mechanical insights at the nanoscale
Authors: Rodríguez Antonio M. , Muñoz-García Ana B. , Crescenzi Orlando , Vázquez Ester , Pavone Michele
Published: July 2016

First-principles calculations reveal the roles of melamine–water H-bonds and melamine–graphene interactions in the stability of melamine-exfoliated graphene aqueous dispersions.
Further correction: Low bandgap semiconducting polymers for polymeric photovoltaics
Authors: Liu Chang , Wang Kai , Gong Xiong , Heeger Alan J.
Published: July 2016

Further correction for ‘Low bandgap semiconducting polymers for polymeric photovoltaics’ by Chang Liu et al., Chem. Soc. Rev., 2016, DOI: 10.1039/c5cs00650c.
Selective gas phase hydrogenation of nitroarenes over Mo2C-supported Au–Pd
Authors: Wang Xiaodong , Perret Noémie , Delannoy Laurent , Louis Catherine , Keane Mark A.
Published: July 2016

The first reported synthesis of Au–Pd/Mo2C from colloidal nanoparticles with enhanced selective catalytic hydrogenation of functionalised nitroarenes.
Economical and environmentally-friendly approaches for usage of onion (Allium cepa L.) waste
Authors: Sharma Kavita , Mahato Neelima , Nile Shivraj Hariram , Lee Eul Tal , Lee Yong Rok
Published: July 2016

General anatomy and different layers in onion.
S95C substitution in CuZn-SOD of Ipomoea carnea: impact on the structure, function and stability
Authors: Mishra Panchanand , Satpati Suresh , Baral Sudhira Kumar , Dixit Anshuman , Sabat Surendra Chandra
Published: July 2016

Superoxide dismutase (SOD) is a unique homo-dimeric enzyme that can scavenge toxic superoxide radicals by dismutation reaction. This study analysed the role of Cys in modulating the stability and kinetic properties of IcSOD.
Design, synthesis and biological activity evaluation of novel conjugated sialic acid and pentacyclic triterpene derivatives as anti-influenza entry inhibitors
Authors: Han Xu , Shi Yongying , Si Longlong , Fan Zibo , Wang Han , Xu Renyang , Jiao Pingxuan , Meng Kun , Tian Zhenyu , Zhou Xiaoshu , Jin Hongwei , Wu Xinyu , Chen Hong , Zhang Yongmin , Zhang Lihe , Xiao Sulong , Zhou Demin
Published: July 2016

A total of 24 novel sialic acid–pentacyclic triterpene conjugates were synthesized and evaluated as anti-influenza virus entry inhibitors.
Asymmetric synthesis of (−)-renieramycin T
Authors: Jia Junhao , Chen Ruijiao , Liu Hao , Li Xiong , Jia Yuanliang , Chen Xiaochuan
Published: July 2016

A nonclassical renieramycin with a similar A-ring to ecteinascidin, (−)-renieramycin T, is synthesized through a convergent approach featuring a regio- and stereoselective condensation of isoquinoline and trisubstituted phenylalaninol partners. This practical strategy via the bis-THIQ intermediate will open a rapid access to the hybrid-type renieramycins, as well as ecteinascidins and their analogues.
Coating a N-doped TiO2 shell on dually sensitized upconversion nanocrystals to provide NIR-enhanced photocatalysts for efficient utilization of upconverted emissions
Authors: Wang Kun , Qincheng Wanli , Wang Fuyong , Bai Song , Li Sheng , Li Zhengquan
Published: July 2016

An efficient NIR-enhanced photocatalyst was developed by coating a N-doped TiO2 shell on dually sensitized core–shell upconversion nanocrystals.
Elemental anion thermal injection synthesis of nanocrystalline marcasite iron dichalcogenide FeSe2 and FeTe2
Authors: Bastola Ebin , Bhandari Khagendra P. , Matthews Anthony J. , Shrestha Niraj , Ellingson Randy J.
Published: July 2016

We report a hot-injection colloidal method for the synthesis of nanocrystalline (NC) iron diselenide (FeSe2), and iron ditelluride (FeTe2) derived from iron(ii) bromide as the iron (Fe) precursor.
Tribological properties of oleic acid-modified zinc oxide nanoparticles as the lubricant additive in poly-alpha olefin and diisooctyl sebacate base oils
Authors: Wu Lili , Zhang Yujuan , Yang Guangbin , Zhang Shengmao , Yu Laigui , Zhang Pingyu
Published: July 2016

This paper presents OA-modified ZnO nanoparticles with an average size of 4.04 nm as friction-reducing and antiwear lubricant additive in poly-alpha olefin (PAO) and diisooctyl sebacate (DIOS) base oils under boundary lubricanting conditions.
Synthesis, characterization, and optical properties of Te, Te/TeO2and TeO2nanostructures via a one-pot hydrothermal method
Authors: Arab Fatemeh , Mousavi-Kamazani Mehdi , Salavati-Niasari Masoud
Published: July 2016

Herein, tellurium (Te), tellurium dioxide (TeO2) and Te/TeO2nanostructures were successfully synthesizedviaa one-pot hydrothermal route using TeCl4as a tellurium source.
Synthesis, structure and luminescent properties of a new blue-green-emitting garnet phosphor Ca2LuScZrAl2GeO12:Ce3+
Authors: Zheng Yaling , Zhuang Weidong , Xing Xianran , Zhong Jiyou , Liu Ronghui , Li Yanfeng , Liu Yuanhong , Hu Yunsheng
Published: July 2016

Phosphor Ca2LuZrScAl2GeO12:Ce is synthesized. Crystal structure, electronic structure and luminescence property of samples are investigated. Electronic structure study indicates that photo-ionization easy occur when the matrix contains Ge4+or Zr4+.
Synthesis and characterization of MCM-49/MCM-41 composite molecular sieve: an effective adsorbent for chromate from water
Authors: Wei Liguo , Zhang Hongsen , Dong Yongli , Song Weina , Liu Xiaoxu , Zhao Zhifei
Published: July 2016

MCM-49/MCM-41 was synthesized by a fast method via microwave assistance and was characterized for its application in heavy metal adsorption.
Thermally stable transparent sol–gel based active siloxane–oligomer materials with tunable high refractive index and dual reactive groups
Authors: Chen Mei , Zhang Guoyan , Liang Xiao , Zhang Wanshu , Zhou Le , He Baofeng , Song Ping , Yuan Xiao , Zhang Cuihong , Zhang Lanying , Yu Haifeng , Yang Huai
Published: July 2016

A novel active silicone–oligomers used as chemical intermediates in optical applications were synthesized and one of their derivatives, a transparent film with high refractive index, were presented.
A first-principles study of the avalanche pressure of alpha zirconium
Authors: Peng Qing , Ji Wei , Lian Jie , Gao Fei , Peng Shuming , Huang Hanchen , De Suvranu
Published: July 2016

The critical swelling pressure, the avalanche pressure, is Pa = −15 GPa for alpha zirconium.
A pH-responsive superwetting nanostructured copper mesh film for separating both water-in-oil and oil-in-water emulsions
Authors: Cheng Zhongjun , Li Chong , Lai Hua , Du Ying , Liu Hongwei , Liu Min , Jin Liguo , Zhang Chungang , Zhang Naiqing , Sun Kening
Published: July 2016

A new pH-responsive nanostructured copper mesh film was reported for the bidirectional separation of emulsified oil/water mixtures.
A new TICT and AIE-active tetraphenylethene-based Schiff base with reversible piezofluorochromism
Authors: Han Fangfang , Zhang Ran , Zhang Zhaoming , Su Jianguo , Ni Zhonghai
Published: July 2016

A new tetraphenylethene-based Schiff base N-5-nitrosalicylidene-4-tetraphenylethenylamine (NSTPE) exhibits an interesting “on–off–on” optical switching property and reversible piezofluorochromic properties.
A sol-hydrothermal route to truncated tetragonal bipyramid nanocrystals and hierarchical hollow microspheres of anatase TiO2 for application in dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Zhang Linlin , Tian Long , He Qingquan , Liu Dan , Zai Jiantao , Qian Xuefeng , Wang Cheng
Published: July 2016

DSSCs based on TiO2 bilayer photoanodes made of truncated tetragonal bipyramids and hierarchical hollow microspheres delivered a PCE of 9.06%.
Identification of novel thermostable ω-transaminase and its application for enzymatic synthesis of chiral amines at high temperature
Authors: Mathew Sam , Deepankumar Kanagavel , Shin Giyoung , Hong Eun Young , Kim Byung-Gee , Chung Taeowan , Yun Hyungdon
Published: July 2016

A novel thermostable ω-transaminase from Thermomicrobium roseum showing broad substrate specificity and high enantioselectivity was identified, expressed and biochemically characterized and it could produce chiral amines at high temperature.
Combined experimental and theoretical investigations on the encapsulation of nickel(ii)tet-a complex in zeolite Y and its photocatalytic activity
Authors: Chandra Mohan Singaravelu , Bhattacharjee Debajyoti , Chandra Deka Ramesh , Jothivenkatachalam Kandasamy
Published: July 2016

Photocatalytic mechanism of the 5,7,7,12,14,14-hexamethyl-1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane [tet-a] nickel(ii) encapsulated in zeolite Y.
Thermal reduction to control the spacing in graphene oxide membranes: effect on ion diffusion and electrical conduction
Authors: Alhadhrami A. , Salgado S. , Maheshwari V.
Published: July 2016

Inter-layer spacing in reduced graphene-oxide membranes which modulates their ion-diffusion electrical and electrochemical characteristics is controlled by temperature of thermal reduction.
Design and synthesis of new Ru-complexes as potential photo-sensitizers: experimental and TD-DFT insights
Authors: Walid Sharmoukh Walid Sharmoukh , Hassan Walid M. I. , Gros Philippe C. , Allam Nageh K.
Published: July 2016

Design of photosensitizers aided by density functional theory calculations.
Injectable and self-healing dynamic hydrogel containing bioactive glass nanoparticles as a potential biomaterial for bone regeneration
Authors: Gantar Ana , Drnovšek Nataša , Casuso Pablo , Pérez-San Vicente Adrián , Rodriguez Javier , Dupin Damien , Novak Saša , Loinaz Iraida
Published: July 2016

Combination of Au-based dynamic hydrogel with 100 nm bioactive glass nanoparticles resulted in the formation of an injectable, self-healing and biocompatible hydrogel nanocomposites with osteoinductive properties and potential for bone regeneration.
Biodegradable thermal- and redox-responsive poly(l-glutamate) with Y-shaped oligo(ethylene glycol) side-chain and tunable phase transition temperature
Authors: Fu Xiaohui , Ma Yinan , Sun Jing , Li Zhibo
Published: July 2016

A series of poly(l-glutamate) bearing Y-shaped oligo(ethylene glycol)x side-chains were synthesized via a combination of ROP and thiol–yne photoaddition. The polypeptides showed dual thermal and redox-responsive properties.
Correction: Efficient dye-sensitized solar cells with broad absorption and enhanced photo-current generation
Authors: Kim Jihun , Lee Horim , Kim Dong Young , Seo Yongsok
Published: July 2016

Correction for ‘Efficient dye-sensitized solar cells with broad absorption and enhanced photo-current generation’ by Jihun Kim et al., RSC Adv., 2016, 6, 56747–56755.