bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Omnidirectional and broadband absorption enhancement from trapezoidal Mie resonators in semiconductor metasurfaces
Authors: Pala Ragip A. , Butun Serkan , Aydin Koray , Atwater Harry A.
Published: September 2016

Light trapping in planar ultrathin-film solar cells is limited due to a small number of optical modes available in the thin-film slab. A nanostructured thin-film design could surpass this limit by providing broadband increase in the local density of states in a subwavelength volume and maintaining efficient coupling of light. Here we report a broadband metasurface design, enabling efficient and broadband absorption enhancement by direct coupling of incoming light to resonant modes of subwavelengthscale Mie nanoresonators defined in the thin-film active layer. Absorption was investigated both theoretically and experimentally in prototypes consisting of lithographically patterned, two-dimensional periodic arrays of silicon nanoresonators on silica substrates. A crossed trapezoid resonator shape of rectangular cross section is used to excite broadband Mie resonances across visible and near-IR spectra. Our numerical simulations, optical absorption measurements and photocurrent spectral response measurements demonstrate that crossed trapezoidal Mie resonant structures enable angle-insensitive, broadband absorption. A short circuit current density of 12.0 mA/cm2 is achieved in 210 nm thick patterned Si films, yielding a 4-fold increase compared to planar films of the same thickness. It is suggested that silicon metasurfaces with Mie resonator arrays can provide useful insights to guide future ultrathin-film solar cell designs incorporating nanostructured thin active layers.
A Direct Comparison of Two Densely Sampled HIV Epidemics: The UK and Switzerland
Authors: Ragonnet-Cronin Manon L. , Shilaih Mohaned , Günthard Huldrych F. , Hodcroft Emma B. , Böni Jürg , Fearnhill Esther , Dunn David , Yerly Sabine , Klimkait Thomas , Aubert Vincent , Yang Wan-Lin , Brown Alison E. , Lycett Samantha J. , Kouyos Roger , Brown Andrew J. Leigh
Published: September 2016

Phylogenetic clustering approaches can elucidate HIV transmission dynamics. Comparisons across countries are essential for evaluating public health policies. Here, we used a standardised approach to compare the UK HIV Drug Resistance Database and the Swiss HIV Cohort Study while maintaining data-protection requirements. Clusters were identified in subtype A1, B and C pol phylogenies. We generated degree distributions for each risk group and compared distributions between countries using Kolmogorov-Smirnov (KS) tests, Degree Distribution Quantification and Comparison (DDQC) and bootstrapping. We used logistic regression to predict cluster membership based on country, sampling date, risk group, ethnicity and sex. We analysed >8,000 Swiss and >30,000 UK subtype B sequences. At 4.5% genetic distance, the UK was more clustered and MSM and heterosexual degree distributions differed significantly by the KS test. The KS test is sensitive to variation in network scale, and jackknifing the UK MSM dataset to the size of the Swiss dataset removed the difference. Only heterosexuals varied based on the DDQC, due to UK male heterosexuals who clustered exclusively with MSM. Their removal eliminated this difference. In conclusion, the UK and Swiss HIV epidemics have similar underlying dynamics and observed differences in clustering are mainly due to different population sizes.
The miR-33 gene is identified in a marine teleost: a potential role in regulation of LC-PUFA biosynthesis in Siganus canaliculatus
Authors: Zhang Qinghao , You Cuihong , Wang Shuqi , Dong Yewei , Monroig Óscar , Tocher Douglas R. , Li Yuanyou
Published: September 2016

As the first marine teleost demonstrated to have the ability to biosynthesize long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA) from C18 PUFA precursors, rabbitfish Siganus canaliculatus provides a good model for studying the regulatory mechanisms of LC-PUFA biosynthesis in teleosts. Here the potential roles of miR-33 in such regulation were investigated. The miR-33 gene was identified within intron 16 of the gene encoding sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1 (Srebp1), an activator of LC-PUFA biosynthesis. Expression of miR-33 in rabbitfish tissues correlated with that of srebp1, while its expression in liver was highly responsive to ambient salinities and PUFA components, factors affecting LC-PUFA biosynthesis. Srebp1 activation promoted the expression of Δ4 and Δ6 Δ5 fatty acyl desaturases (Fad), key enzymes for LC-PUFA biosynthesis, accompanied by elevated miR-33 abundance in rabbitfish hepatocytes. miR-33 overexpression induced the expression of the two fad, but suppressed that of insulin-induced gene 1 (insig1), which encodes a repressor blocking Srebp proteolytic activation and has targeting sites of miR-33. These results indicated that miR-33, cooperating with Srebp1, may be involved in regulation of LC-PUFA biosynthesis by facilitating fad expression, probably through targeting insig1. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the participation of miR-33 in LC-PUFA biosynthesis in vertebrates.
Interoceptive Ability Predicts Survival on a London Trading Floor
Authors: Kandasamy Narayanan , Garfinkel Sarah N. , Page Lionel , Hardy Ben , Critchley Hugo D. , Gurnell Mark , Coates John M.
Published: September 2016

Interoception is the sensing of physiological signals originating inside the body, such as hunger, pain and heart rate. People with greater sensitivity to interoceptive signals, as measured by, for example, tests of heart beat detection, perform better in laboratory studies of risky decision-making. However, there has been little field work to determine if interoceptive sensitivity contributes to success in real-world, high-stakes risk taking. Here, we report on a study in which we quantified heartbeat detection skills in a group of financial traders working on a London trading floor. We found that traders are better able to perceive their own heartbeats than matched controls from the non-trading population. Moreover, the interoceptive ability of traders predicted their relative profitability, and strikingly, how long they survived in the financial markets. Our results suggest that signals from the body - the gut feelings of financial lore - contribute to success in the markets.
Papain gel containing methylene blue for simultaneous caries removal and antimicrobial photoinactivation against Streptococcus mutans biofilms
Authors: Silva Zenildo Santos , Huang Ying-Ying , de Freitas Lucas Freitas , França Cristiane Miranda , Botta Sergio Brossi , Ana Patrícia Aparecida , Mesquita-Ferrari Raquel Agnelli , Santos Fernandes Kristianne Porta , Deana Alessandro , Lima Leal Cintia Raquel , Prates Renato Araujo , Hamblin Michael R. , Bussadori Sandra Kalil
Published: September 2016

This study intended to evaluate the effects of a papain-gel with a red-light absorbing pigment (methylene blue – MB) to mediate photodynamic therapy (PDT) against Streptococcus mutans biofilms. The PapaMBlue was compared with free MB to generate reactive oxygen species using fluorescence probes (SOSG and HPF). PDT (660-nm light) was carried out against S. mutans biofilms grown on either plastic dishes or on collagen membrane and assayed by CFU, live-dead staining using confocal microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and H&E staining for collagen films. Cytotoxicity and subcellular localization was studied in human fibroblasts. Sponges of bioabsorbable type I collagen membrane were exposed to papain based gel, irradiated with laser and analyzed about their integrity by ATR-FTIR. The PapaMBlue produced higher amounts of singlet oxygen and hydroxyl radicals than free MB, possibly due to better disaggregation of the dye in solution. The PapaMBlue antimicrobial effects on biofilms proved to be capable of reducing the S. mutans. Both MTT and PrestoBlue assays showed higher cell viability and metabolism scores in fibroblasts treated with PapaMBlue and MB, possibly due to stimulation of mitochondrial activity and that collagen triple helix is unaffected. The PapaMBlue is equally effective as MB in destroying S. mutans biofilms growing on plastic or collagen without affecting fibroblasts.
Effect of cation substitution on bridgmanite elasticity: A key to interpret seismic anomalies in the lower mantle
Authors: Fukui Hiroshi , Yoneda Akira , Nakatsuka Akihiko , Tsujino Noriyoshi , Kamada Seiji , Ohtani Eiji , Shatskiy Anton , Hirao Naohisa , Tsutsui Satoshi , Uchiyama Hiroshi , Baron Alfred Q. R.
Published: September 2016

Seismological observations show that, in some regions of the lower mantle, an increase in bulk sound velocity, interestingly, occurs in the same volume where there is a decrease in shear velocity. We show that this anti-correlated behavior occurs on cation substitution in bridgmanite by making single crystal elasticity measurements of MgSiO3 and (Mg,Fe,Al)(Si,Al)O3 using inelastic x-ray scattering in the ambient conditions. Cation substitution of ferrous iron and aluminum may explain large low shear velocity provinces in the lower mantle.
Dopaminergic neurons differentiating from LRRK2 G2019S induced pluripotent stem cells show early neuritic branching defects
Authors: Borgs Laurence , Peyre Elise , Alix Philippe , Hanon Kevin , Grobarczyk Benjamin , Godin Juliette D. , Purnelle Audrey , Krusy Nathalie , Maquet Pierre , Lefebvre Philippe , Seutin Vincent , Malgrange Brigitte , Nguyen Laurent
Published: September 2016

Some mutations of the LRRK2 gene underlie autosomal dominant form of Parkinson’s disease (PD). The G2019S is a common mutation that accounts for about 2% of PD cases. To understand the pathophysiology of this mutation and its possible developmental implications, we developed an in vitro assay to model PD with human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) reprogrammed from skin fibroblasts of PD patients suffering from the LRKK2 G2019S mutation. We differentiated the hiPSCs into neural stem cells (NSCs) and further into dopaminergic neurons. Here we show that NSCs bearing the mutation tend to differentiate less efficiently into dopaminergic neurons and that the latter exhibit significant branching defects as compared to their controls.
Linear biocompatible glyco-polyamidoamines as dual action mode virus infection inhibitors with potential as broad-spectrum microbicides for sexually transmitted diseases
Authors: Mauro Nicolò , Ferruti Paolo , Ranucci Elisabetta , Manfredi Amedea , Berzi Angela , Clerici Mario , Cagno Valeria , Lembo David , Palmioli Alessandro , Sattin Sara
Published: September 2016

The initial steps of viral infections are mediated by interactions between viral proteins and cellular receptors. Blocking the latter with high-affinity ligands may inhibit infection. DC-SIGN, a C-type lectin receptor expressed by immature dendritic cells and macrophages, mediates human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection by recognizing mannose clusters on the HIV-1 gp120 envelope glycoprotein. Mannosylated glycodendrimers act as HIV entry inhibitors thanks to their ability to block this receptor. Previously, an amphoteric, but prevailingly cationic polyamidoamine named AGMA1 proved effective as infection inhibitor for several heparan sulfate proteoglycan-dependent viruses, such as human papilloma virus HPV-16 and herpes simplex virus HSV-2. An amphoteric, but prevailingly anionic PAA named ISA23 proved inactive. It was speculated that the substitution of mannosylated units for a limited percentage of AGMA1 repeating units, while imparting anti-HIV activity, would preserve the fundamentals of its HPV-16 and HSV-2 infection inhibitory activity. In this work, four biocompatible linear PAAs carrying different amounts of mannosyl-triazolyl pendants, Man-ISA7, Man-ISA14, Man-AGMA6.5 and Man-AGMA14.5, were prepared by reaction of 2-(azidoethyl)-α-D-mannopyranoside and differently propargyl-substituted AGMA1 and ISA23. All mannosylated PAAs inhibited HIV infection. Both Man-AGMA6.5 and Man-AGMA14.5 maintained the HPV-16 and HSV-2 activity of the parent polymer, proving broad-spectrum, dual action mode virus infection inhibitors.
Angiogenic microspheres promote neural regeneration and motor function recovery after spinal cord injury in rats
Authors: Yu Shukui , Yao Shenglian , Wen Yujun , Wang Ying , Wang Hao , Xu Qunyuan
Published: September 2016

This study examined sustained co-delivery of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), angiopoietin-1 and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) encapsulated in angiogenic microspheres. These spheres were delivered to sites of spinal cord contusion injury in rats, and their ability to induce vessel formation, neural regeneration and improve hindlimb motor function was assessed. At 2–8 weeks after spinal cord injury, ELISA-determined levels of VEGF, angiopoietin-1, and bFGF were significantly higher in spinal cord tissues in rats that received angiogenic microspheres than in those that received empty microspheres. Sites of injury in animals that received angiogenic microspheres also contained greater numbers of isolectin B4-binding vessels and cells positive for nestin or β III-tubulin (P < 0.01), significantly more NF-positive and serotonergic fibers, and more MBP-positive mature oligodendrocytes. Animals receiving angiogenic microspheres also suffered significantly less loss of white matter volume. At 10 weeks after injury, open field tests showed that animals that received angiogenic microspheres scored significantly higher on the Basso-Beattie-Bresnahan scale than control animals (P < 0.01). Our results suggest that biodegradable, biocompatible PLGA microspheres can release angiogenic factors in a sustained fashion into sites of spinal cord injury and markedly stimulate angiogenesis and neurogenesis, accelerating recovery of neurologic function.
Evidence for Bulk Ripplocations in Layered Solids
Authors: Gruber Jacob , Lang Andrew C. , Griggs Justin , Taheri Mitra L. , Tucker Garritt J. , Barsoum Michel W.
Published: September 2016

Plastically anisotropic/layered solids are ubiquitous in nature and understanding how they deform is crucial in geology, nuclear engineering, microelectronics, among other fields. Recently, a new defect termed a ripplocation–best described as an atomic scale ripple–was proposed to explain deformation in two-dimensional solids. Herein, we leverage atomistic simulations of graphite to extend the ripplocation idea to bulk layered solids, and confirm that it is essentially a buckling phenomenon. In contrast to dislocations, bulk ripplocations have no Burgers vector and no polarity. In graphite, ripplocations are attracted to other ripplocations, both within the same, and on adjacent layers, the latter resulting in kink boundaries. Furthermore, we present transmission electron microscopy evidence consistent with the existence of bulk ripplocations in Ti3SiC2. Ripplocations are a topological imperative, as they allow atomic layers to glide relative to each other without breaking the in-plane bonds. A more complete understanding of their mechanics and behavior is critically important, and could profoundly influence our current understanding of how graphite, layered silicates, the MAX phases, and many other plastically anisotropic/layered solids, deform and accommodate strain.
β-Hairpin of Islet Amyloid Polypeptide Bound to an Aggregation Inhibitor
Authors: Mirecka Ewa A. , Feuerstein Sophie , Gremer Lothar , Schröder Gunnar F. , Stoldt Matthias , Willbold Dieter , Hoyer Wolfgang
Published: September 2016

In type 2 diabetes, the formation of islet amyloid consisting of islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP) is associated with reduction in β-cell mass and contributes to the failure of islet cell transplantation. Rational design of inhibitors of IAPP amyloid formation has therapeutic potential, but is hampered by the lack of structural information on inhibitor complexes of the conformationally flexible, aggregation-prone IAPP. Here we characterize a β-hairpin conformation of IAPP in complex with the engineered binding protein β-wrapin HI18. The β-strands correspond to two amyloidogenic motifs, 12-LANFLVH-18 and 22-NFGAILS-28, which are connected by a turn established around Ser-20. Besides backbone hydrogen bonding, the IAPP:HI18 interaction surface is dominated by non-polar contacts involving hydrophobic side chains of the IAPP β-strands. Apart from monomers, HI18 binds oligomers and fibrils and inhibits IAPP aggregation and toxicity at low substoichiometric concentrations. The IAPP β-hairpin can serve as a molecular recognition motif enabling control of IAPP aggregation.
Complement component 3 deficiency prolongs MHC-II disparate skin allograft survival by increasing the CD4+ CD25+ regulatory T cells population
Authors: Zheng Quan-you , Liang Shen-ju , Li Gui-qing , Lv Yan-bo , Li You , Tang Ming , Zhang Kun , Xu Gui-lian , Zhang Ke-qin
Published: September 2016

Recent reports suggest that complement system contributes to allograft rejection. However, its underlying mechanism is poorly understood. Herein, we investigate the role of complement component 3 (C3) in a single MHC-II molecule mismatched murine model of allograft rejection using C3 deficient mice (C3−/−) as skin graft donors or recipients. Compared with C3+/+ B6 allografts, C3−/− B6 grafts dramatically prolonged survival in MHC-II molecule mismatched H-2bm12 B6 recipients, indicating that C3 plays a critical role in allograft rejection. Compared with C3+/+ allografts, both Th17 cell infiltration and Th1/Th17 associated cytokine mRNA levels were clearly reduced in C3−/− allografts. Moreover, C3−/− allografts caused attenuated Th1/Th17 responses, but increased CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T (Treg) cell expression markedly in local intragraft and H-2bm12 recipients. Depletion of Treg cells by anti-CD25 monoclonal antibody (mAb) negated the survival advantages conferred by C3 deficiency. Our results indicate for the first time that C3 deficiency can prolong MHC-II molecule mismatched skin allograft survival, which is further confirmed to be associated with increased CD4+ CD25+ Treg cell population expansion and attenuated Th1/Th17 response.
Transient receptor potential channel 1/4 reduces subarachnoid hemorrhage-induced early brain injury in rats via calcineurin-mediated NMDAR and NFAT dephosphorylation
Authors: Wang Zhong , Wang Yibin , Tian Xiaodi , Shen Haitao , Dou Yang , Li Haiying , Chen Gang
Published: September 2016

Transient receptor potential channel 1/4 (TRPC1/4) are considered to be related to subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH)-induced cerebral vasospasm. In this study, a SAH rat model was employed to study the roles of TRPC1/4 in the early brain injury (EBI) after SAH. Primary cultured hippocampal neurons were exposed to oxyhemoglobin to mimic SAH in vitro. The protein levels of TRPC1/4 increased and peaked at 5 days after SAH in rats. Inhibition of TRPC1/4 by SKF96365 aggravated SAH-induced EBI, such as cortical cell death (by TUNEL staining) and degenerating (by FJB staining). In addition, TRPC1/4 overexpression could increase calcineurin activity, while increased calcineurin activity could promote the dephosphorylation of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR). Calcineurin antagonist FK506 could weaken the neuroprotection and the dephosphorylation of NMDAR induced by TRPC1/4 overexpression. Contrarily, calcineurin agonist chlorogenic acid inhibited SAH-induced EBI, even when siRNA intervention of TRPC1/4 was performed. Moreover, calcineurin also could lead to the nuclear transfer of nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT), which is a transcription factor promoting the expressions of TRPC1/4. TRPC1/4 could inhibit SAH-induced EBI by supressing the phosphorylation of NMDAR via calcineurin. TRPC1/4-induced calcineurin activation also could promote the nuclear transfer of NFAT, suggesting a positive feedback regulation of TRPC1/4 expressions.
Nuclear localization of tricellulin promotes the oncogenic property of pancreatic cancer
Authors: Takasawa Akira , Murata Masaki , Takasawa Kumi , Ono Yusuke , Osanai Makoto , Tanaka Satoshi , Nojima Masanori , Kono Tsuyoshi , Hirata Koichi , Kojima Takashi , Sawada Norimasa
Published: September 2016

Accumulating evidence has shown that dysregulation of tight junctions (TJs) is involved in tumor development and progression. In this study, we investigated the expression and subcellular distribution of tricellulin, which constitutes tricellular TJs, using human pancreatic adenocarcinomas. In well-differentiated pancreatic adenocarcinoma tissues, tricellulin immunostaining was prominent in the cytoplasm and the plasma membrane. In contrast, in poorly differentiated tissues, its immunostaining was predominantly observed in the nuclei and was almost absent in the plasma membrane. The distinct immunostaining of tricellulin successfully distinguished poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma from moderately and well-differentiated adenocarcinomas with high levels of sensitivity and specificity. Nuclear tricellulin expression significantly correlated with lymph node metastasis, lymphatic invasion and poor survival. In pancreatic cancer cell lines, tricellulin localization shifted from the membrane to nucleus with decreasing differentiation status. Nuclear localization of tricellulin promoted cell proliferation and invasiveness possibly in association with MAPK and PKC pathways in pancreatic cancers. Our results provide new insights into the function of tricellulin, and its nuclear localization may become a new prognostic factor for pancreatic cancers.
Comparison of the 7th and proposed 8th editions of the AJCC/UICC TNM staging system for non-small cell lung cancer undergoing radical surgery
Authors: Jin Ying , Chen Ming , Yu Xinmin
Published: September 2016

The present study aims to compare the 7th and the proposed 8th edition of the AJCC/UICC TNM staging system for NSCLC in a cohort of patients from a single institution. A total of 408 patients with NSCLC who underwent radical surgery were analyzed retrospectively. Survivals were analyzed using the Kaplan –Meier method and were compared using the log-rank test. Multivariate analysis was performed by the Cox proportional hazard model. The Akaike information criterion (AIC) and C-index were applied to compare the two prognostic systems with different numbers of stages. The 7th AJCC T categories, the proposed 8th AJCC T categories, N categories, visceral pleural invasion, and vessel invasion were found to have statistically significant associations with disease-free survival (DFS) on univariate analysis. In the 7th edition staging system as well as in the proposed 8th edition, T categories, N categories, and pleural invasion were independent factors for DFS on multivariate analysis. The AIC value was smaller for the 8th edition compared to the 7th edition staging system. The C-index value was larger for the 8th edition compared to the 7th edition staging system. Based on the data from our single center, the proposed 8th AJCC T classification seems to be superior to the 7th AJCC T classification in terms of DFS for patients with NSCLC underwent radical surgery.
Prognostic significance of fibroblast growth factor receptor 4 polymorphisms on biochemical recurrence after radical prostatectomy in a Chinese population
Authors: Chen Luyao , Lei Zhengwei , Ma Xin , Huang Qingbo , Zhang Xu , Zhang Yong , Hao Peng , Yang Minggang , Zhao Xuetao , Chen Jun , Liu Gongxue , Zheng Tao
Published: September 2016

Fibroblast growth factor receptor 4 (FGFR4) is a transmembrane receptor with ligand-induced tyrosine kinase activity and is involved in various biological and pathological processes. Several polymorphisms of FGFR4 are associated with the incidence and mortality of numerous cancers, including prostate cancer. In this study, we investigated whether the polymorphisms of FGFR4 influence the biochemical recurrence of prostate cancer in Chinese men after radical prostatectomy. Three common polymorphisms (rs1966265, rs2011077 and rs351855) of FGFR4 were genotyped from 346 patients with prostate cancer by using the Sequenom MassARRAY system. Kaplan–Meier curves and Cox proportional hazard models were used for survival analysis. Results showed biochemical recurrence (BCR) free survival was significantly affected by the genotypes of rs351855 but not influenced by rs1966265 and rs2011077. After adjusting for other variables in multivariable analysis, patients with rs351855 AA/AG genotypes showed significantly worse BCR-free survival than those with the GG genotype (HR = 1.873; 95% CI, 1.209–2.901; P = 0.005). Hence, FGFR4 rs351855 could be a novel independent prognostic factor of BCR after radical prostatectomy in the Chinese population. This functional polymorphism may also provide a basis for surveillance programs. Additional large-scale studies must be performed to validate the significance of this polymorphism in prostate cancer.
Enhanced Crystallization Behaviors of Silicon-Doped Sb2Te Films: Optical Evidences
Authors: Guo Shuang , Xu Liping , Zhang Jinzhong , Hu Zhigao , Li Tao , Wu Liangcai , Song Zhitang , Chu Junhao
Published: September 2016

The optical properties and structural variations of silicon (Si) doped Sb2Te (SST) films as functions of temperature (210–620 K) and Si concentration (0–33%) have been investigated by the means of temperature dependent Raman scattering and spectroscopic ellipsometry experiments. Based upon the changes in Raman phonon modes and dielectric functions, it can be concluded that the temperature ranges for intermediates and transition states are estimated to 150, 120, 90 and 0 K, corresponding to ST, SST25%, SST28% and SST33% films, respectively. The phenomenon also can be summarized by the thermal evolutions of interband electronic transition energies (En) and partial spectral weight integral (I). The disappearance of intermediate (INT) state for SST33% film between amorphous (AM) and hexagonal (HEX) phases can be attributed to the acceleratory crystallization of HEX phase by Si introduction. It illustrates that the risk of phase separation (Sb and Te) during the cyclic phase-change processes decreases with the increasing Si concentration. The enhanced crystallization behaviors can optimize the data retention ability and the long term stability of ST by Si doping, which are important indicators for phase change materials. The performance improvement has been analyzed qualitatively from the optical perspective.
Gain enhanced Fano resonance in a coupled photonic crystal cavity-waveguide structure
Authors: Zhao Yanhui , Qian Chenjiang , Qiu Kangsheng , Tang Jing , Sun Yue , Jin Kuijuan , Xu Xiulai
Published: September 2016

Systems with coupled cavities and waveguides have been demonstrated as optical switches and optical sensors. To optimize the functionalities of these optical devices, Fano resonance with asymmetric and steep spectral line shape has been used. We theoretically propose a coupled photonic crystal cavity-waveguide structure to achieve Fano resonance by placing partially reflecting elements in waveguide. To enhance Fano resonance, optical gain material is introduced into the cavity. As the gain increases, the transmission line shape becomes steepened and the transmissivity can be six times enhanced, giving a large contrast by a small frequency shift. It is prospected that the gain enhanced Fano resonance is very useful for optical switches and optical sensors.
Macrophages facilitate the excystation and differentiation of Toxoplasma gondii sporozoites into tachyzoites following oocyst internalisation
Authors: Freppel Wesley , Puech Pierre-Henri , Ferguson David J. P. , Azas Nadine , Dubey Jitender P. , Dumètre Aurélien
Published: September 2016

Toxoplasma gondii is a common parasite of humans and animals, which is transmitted via oocysts in cat faeces or tissue cysts in contaminated meat. The robust oocyst and sporocyst walls protect the infective sporozoites from deleterious external attacks including disinfectants. Upon oocyst acquisition, these walls lose their integrity to let the sporozoites excyst and invade host cells following a process that remains poorly understood. Given the resistance of the oocyst wall to digestive enzymes and the ability of oocysts to cause parenteral infections, the present study investigated the possible contribution of macrophages in supporting sporozoite excystation following oocyst internalisation. By using single cell micromanipulations, real-time and time-point imaging techniques, we demonstrated that RAW macrophages could interact rapidly with oocysts and engulfed them by remodelling of their actin cytoskeleton. Internalised oocysts were associated to macrophage acidic compartments and showed evidences of wall disruption. Sporozoites were observed in macrophages containing oocyst remnants or in new macrophages, giving rise to dividing tachyzoites. All together, these results highlight an unexpected role of phagocytic cells in processing T. gondii oocysts, in line with non-classical routes of infection, and open new perspectives to identify chemical factors that lead to oocyst wall disruption under physiological conditions.
Drought response transcriptomes are altered in poplar with reduced tonoplast sucrose transporter expression
Authors: Xue Liang-Jiao , Frost Christopher J. , Tsai Chung-Jui , Harding Scott A.
Published: September 2016

TransgenicPopulus tremulaxalba(717-1B4) plants with reduced expression of a tonoplast sucrose efflux transporter,PtaSUT4, exhibit reduced shoot growth compared to wild type (WT) under sustained mild drought. The present study was undertaken to determine whetherSUT4-RNAi directly or indirectly altered poplar predisposition and/or response to changes in soil water availability. While sucrose and hexose levels were constitutively elevated in shoot organs, expression responses to drought were most altered in the root tips ofSUT4-RNAi plants. Prior to any drought treatment, constitutively elevated transcript levels of abscisic acid biosynthetic genes and bark/vegetative storage proteins suggested altered metabolism in root tips of RNAi plants. Stronger drought-stimulation of stress-inducible genes encoding late-embryogenesis-abundant proteins in transgenic roots was consistent with increased vulnerability to soil drying. Transcript evidence suggested an RNAi effect on intercellular water trafficking by aquaporins in stem xylem during soil drying and recovery. Co-expression network analysis predicted altered integration of abscisic acid sensing/signaling with ethylene and jasmonate sensing/signaling in RNAi compared to WT roots. The overall conclusion is that steepened shoot-root sugar gradient in RNAi plants increased sensitivity of root tips to decreasing soil water availability.
Ramipril attenuates left ventricular remodeling by regulating the expression of activin A-follistatin in a rat model of heart failure
Authors: Wei Qun , Liu Haiyan , Liu Miao , Yang Chunyan , Yang Jie , Liu Zhonghui , Yang Ping
Published: September 2016

Prior studies have shown that overexpression of ACT A can lead to ventricular remodeling in rat models of heart failure. Furthermore, recently work studying demonstrated that stimulation of activin An expression in rat aortic smooth muscle (RASM) cells by angiotensin II (Ang II). Ramipril is a recently developed angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. To investigate the effects of Ramipril on expression of ACT A-FS, we established the rat model of heart failure after myocardial infarction (MI), and divided into either a sham operation (SO), MI, or MI-Ramipril group. We found that Ramipril significantly attenuates collagen-I and III deposition (col-I and III). Notably, we determined that expression of ACT A and II activin receptor (ActRII) were significantly down-regulated in the non-infarcted area of the left ventricle in the Ramipril group, whereas the mRNA and protein levels of FS were markedly up-regulated. Our data suggested that Ramipril benefited left ventricular remodeling by reducing fibrosis and collagen accumulation in the left ventricle of rats after myocardial infarction. This observation was also associated with down-regulation of ACT A expression. This study elucidated a new protective mechanism of Ramipril and suggests a novel strategy for treatment of post-infarct remodeling and subsequent heart failure.
Nox2 contributes to the arterial endothelial specification of mouse induced pluripotent stem cells by upregulating Notch signaling
Authors: Kang Xueling , Wei Xiangxiang , Wang Xinhong , Jiang Li , Niu Cong , Zhang Jianyi , Chen Sifeng , Meng Dan
Published: September 2016

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have a crucial role in stem-cell differentiation; however, the mechanisms by which ROS regulate the differentiation of stem cells into endothelial cells (ECs) are unknown. Here, we determine the role of ROS produced by NADPH oxidase 2 (Nox2) in the endothelial-lineage specification of mouse induced-pluripotent stem cells (miPSCs). When wild-type (WT) and Nox2-knockout (Nox2−/−) miPSCs were differentiated into ECs (miPSC-ECs), the expression of endothelial markers, arterial endothelial markers, pro-angiogenic cytokines and Notch pathway components was suppressed in the Nox2−/− cells but increased in both WT and Nox2−/− miPSCs when Nox2 expression was upregulated. Higher levels of Nox2 expression increased Notch signaling and arterial EC differentiation and this increase was abolished by the inhibition of ROS generation or by the silencing of Notch1 expression. Nox2 deficiency was associated with declines in the survival and angiogenic potency of miPSC-ECs and capillary and arterial density were lower in the ischemic limbs of mice after treatment with Nox2−/− miPSC-ECs than WT miPSC-EC treatment. Taken together, these observations indicate that Nox2-mediated ROS production promotes arterial EC specification in differentiating miPSCs by activating the Notch signaling pathway and contributes to the angiogenic potency of transplanted miPSC-derived ECs.
Towards DNA methylation detection using biosensors
Authors: Syedmoradi Leila , Esmaeili Fariba , Norton Michael L.
Published: September 2016

DNA methylation, a stable and heritable covalent modification which mostly occurs in the context of a CpG dinucleotide, has great potential as a biomarker to detect disease, provide prognoses and predict therapeutic responses.
Simultaneous preconcentration and ultrasensitive on-site SERS detection of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in seawater using hexanethiol-modified silver decorated graphene nanomaterials
Authors: Jia Shaojie , Li Dan , Fodjo Essy Kouadio , Xu Hu , Deng Wei , Wu Yue , Wang Yuhong
Published: September 2016

A Ag/GN-SH based SPE-SERS technique can be used for on-site preconcentration and detection of six major PAHs in seawater.
Tuning optical properties of perovskite nanocrystals by supermolecular mercapto-β-cyclodextrin
Authors: Li Qi-Le , Lu Wen-Xiu , Wan Neng , Ding Shou-Nian
Published: September 2016

This study reports a host–guest interaction strategy for systematically manipulating the optical properties of cesium lead halide perovskite nanocrystals (CsPbBr3 NCs) by protectant-mediated mercapto-β-cyclodextrin (SH-β-CD).
An efficient construction of N,N-bicyclic pyrazolidinones comprising enaminonitriles via asymmetric [3+2] cycloaddition
Authors: Vishwanath Manjunatha , Sivamuthuraman Koilpitchai , Kesavan Venkitasamy
Published: September 2016

The first thiourea catalysed asymmetric [3+2] cycloaddition reaction between azomethine imines and malanonitriles was devoloped.
Enantioselective construction of branched 1,3-dienyl substituted quaternary carbon stereocenters by asymmetric allenyl Claisen rearrangement
Authors: Liu Yangbin , Hu Haipeng , Lin Lili , Hao Xiaoyu , Liu Xiaohua , Feng Xiaoming
Published: September 2016

The enantioselective Claisen rearrangement of allenyl vinyl ethers was realized to access branched 1,3-dienyl-substituted all-carbon quaternary stereocenters using a NiII–N,N′-dioxide complex.
Speeding up Viedma ripening
Authors: Engwerda Anthonius H. J. , Meekes Hugo , Kaptein Bernard , Rutjes Floris P. J. T. , Vlieg Elias
Published: September 2016

Using the conversion of a metastable racemic compound into the conglomerate, fast deracemization of two amino acid derivatives was achieved.
A facile strategy for accessing 3-alkynylchromones through gold-catalyzed alkynylation/cyclization of o-hydroxyarylenaminones
Authors: Akram Manjur O. , Bera Saibal , Patil Nitin T.
Published: September 2016

A strategy based on tandem alkynylation ofo-hydroxyarylenaminones followed by intramolecular cyclization has been developed to generate a diverse array of 3-alkynyl chromones.
Effects of extending the π-conjugation of the acetylide ligand on the photophysics and reverse saturable absorption of Pt(ii) bipyridine bisacetylide complexes
Authors: Lu Taotao , Wang Chengzhe , Lystrom Levi , Pei Chengkui , Kilina Svetlana , Sun Wenfang
Published: September 2016

Extending the acetylide ligand π-conjugation diminishes the terminal substituent effect on the lowest excited states, but expands the triplet excited-state absorption to the near-IR region.
Suppressing the dissolution of polysulfides with cosolvent fluorinated diether towards high-performance lithium sulfur batteries
Authors: Gu Sui , Qian Rong , Jin Jun , Wang Qingsong , Guo Jing , Zhang Sanpei , Zhuo Shangjun , Wen Zhaoyin
Published: September 2016

The dissolution and shuttle of polysulfides in electrolytes cause severe anode corrosion, low coulombic efficiency, and a rapid fading of the capacity of lithium–sulfur batteries.
Conformation-controlled hydrogen storage in the CAU-1 metal–organic framework
Authors: Schlegel Moritz-C. , Többens Daniel , Svetogorov Roman , Krüger Martin , Stock Norbert , Reinsch Helge , Wallacher Dirk , Stewart Ross , Russina Margarita
Published: September 2016

Adsorption induced changes in the CAU-1 structure and guest–guest interactions lead to rearrangements of H2molecules and enhance hydrogen intake.
Response to Comment on T. Stauch, A. Dreuw, “Stiff-stilbene photoswitch ruptures bonds not by pulling but by local heating”, Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2016, 18, 15848
Authors: Stauch Tim , Dreuw Andreas
Published: September 2016

Computational analysis of mechanical stress energy revealed that photoisomerization of stiff-stilbene cannot initiate the ring opening of cyclobutene via a purely mechanical pathway.
Band structure engineering in a MoS2/PbI2 van der Waals heterostructure via an external electric field
Authors: Ma Yaqiang , Zhao Xu , Wang Tianxing , Li Wei , Wang Xiaolong , Chang Shanshan , Li Yi , Zhao Mingyu , Dai Xianqi
Published: September 2016

The band alignments and partial charge densities from the CBM and the VBM of the MoS2/PbI2 vdW heterostructure with different Efields.
Solution equilibria and the X-ray structure of Cu(ii) complexation with 3-amino-N-(pyridin-2-ylmethyl)propanamide, a pseudo-mimic of human serum albumin
Authors: Jackson Graham E. , Elmagbari Fatin M. , Hammouda Ahmed N. , Bonomo Raffaele P.
Published: September 2016

Copper complexes have anti-inflammatory activity in the treatment of inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
Low-temperature atomic layer deposition of crystalline manganese oxide thin films
Authors: Jin Hua , Hagen Dirk , Karppinen Maarit
Published: September 2016

We present a new low-temperature atomic layer deposition (ALD) process based on Mn2(CO)10and ozone as precursors to fabricate crystalline α-Mn2O3and Mn3O4thin films; the phase composition is controlled by the deposition temperature such that the former phase forms in the range 60–100 °C and the latter in the range 120–160 °C.
The effects of substituent position on kinetics of benzene vapour adsorption onto 3-phenylphenoxy substituted metal-free and metallo-phthalocyanines thin films
Authors: Alamin Ali Haytham Elzien , Can Nursel , Altun Selçuk , Odabaş Zafer
Published: September 2016

The preparation of metal-free, Zn(ii), In(iii), and Cu(ii)-phthalocyanines containing tetrakis-(3-phenylphenoxy) groups was achieved.
Beyond structure: ultrafast X-ray absorption spectroscopy as a probe of non-adiabatic wavepacket dynamics
Authors: Neville Simon P. , Averbukh Vitali , Patchkovskii Serguei , Ruberti Marco , Yun Renjie , Chergui Majed , Stolow Albert , Schuurman Michael S.
Published: September 2016

The excited state non-adiabatic dynamics of polyatomic molecules, leading to the coupling of structural and electronic dynamics, is a fundamentally important yet challenging problem for both experiment and theory. Ongoing developments in ultrafast extreme vacuum ultraviolet (XUV) and soft X-ray sources present new probes of coupled electronic-structural dynamics because of their novel and desirable characteristics. As one example, inner-shell spectroscopy offers localized, atom-specific probes of evolving electronic structure and bonding (via chemical shifts). In this work, we present the first on-the-fly ultrafast X-ray time-resolved absorption spectrum simulations of excited state wavepacket dynamics: photo-excited ethylene. This was achieved by coupling the ab initio multiple spawning (AIMS) method, employing on-the-fly dynamics simulations, with high-level algebraic diagrammatic construction (ADC) X-ray absorption cross-section calculations. Using the excited state dynamics of ethylene as a test case, we assessed the ability of X-ray absorption spectroscopy to project out the electronic character of complex wavepacket dynamics, and evaluated the sensitivity of the calculated spectra to large amplitude nuclear motion. In particular, we demonstrate the pronounced sensitivity of the pre-edge region of the X-ray absorption spectrum to the electronic and structural evolution of the excited-state wavepacket. We conclude that ultrafast time-resolved X-ray absorption spectroscopy may become a powerful tool in the interrogation of excited state non-adiabatic molecular dynamics.
Isotope ratio characteristics and sensitivity for uranium determinations using a liquid sampling-atmospheric pressure glow discharge ion source coupled to an Orbitrap mass analyzer
Authors: Hoegg Edward D. , Barinaga Charles J. , Hager George J. , Hart Garret L. , Koppenaal David W. , Marcus R. Kenneth
Published: September 2016

The coupling of an LS-APGD microplasma with an Orbitrap analyzer is applied to the isotope ratio analysis of uranium.
Magnetophoretic transistors in a tri-axial magnetic field
Authors: Abedini-Nassab Roozbeh , Joh Daniel Y. , Albarghouthi Faris , Chilkoti Ashutosh , Murdoch David M. , Yellen Benjamin B.
Published: September 2016

Magnetophoretic transistors switch magnetic particles and magnetically labeled cells between different paths in microfluidic channels in a tri-axial magnetic field.
Dynamics of bacterial streamers induced clogging in microfluidic devices
Authors: Hassanpourfard Mahtab , Ghosh Ranajay , Thundat Thomas , Kumar Aloke
Published: September 2016

Bacterial streamer induced clogging regime is characterized by stick-slip fronts and instabilities resulting in formation of water channels.
Total synthesis of Sceletium alkaloids (±)-joubertinamine, (±)-epijoubertinamine, (±)-tortuosamine and formal synthesis of (±)-mesembrine, (±)-N-formyltortuosamine
Authors: Bhosale Viraj A. , Ukale Dattatraya U. , Waghmode Suresh B.
Published: September 2016

An efficient collective formal/total synthesis of Sceletium alkaloids achieved by employing the Wittig olefination–Claisen rearrangement protocol.
BODIPY-containing porous organic polymers for gas adsorption
Authors: Xu Yunfeng , Chang Dan , Feng Shi , Zhang Chong , Jiang Jia-Xing
Published: September 2016

BODIPY-containing microporous organic polymers were synthesized via a Sonogashira–Hagihara coupling reaction of a BODIPY derivative and a range of aryl–alkyne monomers.
Optimised synthesis of monoanionic bis(NHC)-pincer ligand precursors and their Li-complexes
Authors: Jürgens Eva , Buys Kai N. , Schmidt Anna-Theresa , Furfari Samantha K. , Cole Marcus L. , Moser Michael , Rominger Frank , Kunz Doris
Published: September 2016

A straightforward preparation of bis(imidazol)carbazole 4 from carbazole, its transformation to various bis(imidazolium) salts and their deprotonation to Li carbene complexes is presented.
Double-networks based on pH-responsive, amphiphilic “core-first” star first polymer conetworks prepared by sequential RAFT polymerization
Authors: Kitiri Elina N. , Patrickios Costas S. , Voutouri Chrysovalantis , Stylianopoulos Triantafyllos , Hoffmann Ingo , Schweins Ralf , Gradzielski Michael
Published: September 2016

Double-networks based on amphiphilic polymer conetworks synthesized using RAFT polymerization were prepared, exhibiting pH-responsiveness, nanophase separation and enhanced mechanical properties.
An investigation on the influence of catalyst composition, calcination and reduction temperatures on Ni/MgO catalyst for dry reforming of methane
Authors: Usman Muhammad , Wan Daud W. M. A.
Published: September 2016

Catalytic activity of Ni/MgO catalyst investigated at different Ni content (20, 40 and 80 wt%), calcination (450, 600 and 800 °C) and reduction temperatures (550 and 800 °C) for dry reforming reaction at very high space velocity.
Preparation and performance of novel enhanced electrochemical capacitors based on graphene constructed self-assembled Co3O4 microspheres
Authors: Yu Ningbo , Huang Qi , Fu Ning , Ren Jifu , Lu Deli , Han Sheng
Published: September 2016

Transition metal oxide nanostructures is one of the current investigation focuses for supercapacitors.
A forest of SiO2 nanowires covered by a TiO2 thin film for an efficient photocatalytic water treatment
Authors: Convertino A. , Maiolo L. , Scuderi V. , Di Mauro A. , Scuderi M. , Nicotra G. , Impellizzeri G. , Fortunato G. , Privitera V.
Published: September 2016

Disordered TiO2/SiO2 nanowires possess enhanced photocatalytic activity due to the synergy of morphology and light trapping properties of the NW forest.
CuPd nanoparticles as a catalyst in carbon–carbon cross-coupling reactions by a facile oleylamine synthesis
Authors: Smith Sarah E. , Siamaki Ali R. , Gupton B. Frank , Carpenter Everett E.
Published: September 2016

CuPd bi-metallic nanoparticles prepared by facile oleylamine synthesis as an efficient catalyst in carbon–carbon cross-coupling reactions with multiple recyclability and excellent turnover frequency.
Highly potent antimicrobial peptide derivatives of bovine cateslytin
Authors: Postma T. M. , Liskamp R. M. J.
Published: September 2016

The antimicrobial activity of bovine cateslytin was optimized in a series of sequential modifications leading to synlytin, a highly potent non-haemolytic antimicrobial peptide.
Novel structured anodic oxide films containing surface layers and porous sublayers showing excellent wear resistance performance
Authors: Wu Yinghao , Zhao Wenjie , Wang Wurong , Zhang Yanyan , Xue Qunji
Published: September 2016

Anodic oxide films contain novel multilayer structure were fabricated by replacing Al cathode with graphite cathode and also tailoring the Al3+ concentration using common anodic oxidation technology.
Experimental and theoretical study of intramolecular O⋯O interaction in structurally rigid β-keto carboxylic esters
Authors: Sharma Chiranjeev , Singh Ashawani K. , Joy Jyothish , Jemmis Eluvathingal D. , Awasthi Satish K.
Published: September 2016

Herein, we present our experimental and theoretical study on the crystal structures of quinolone carboxylate and bisethoxycarbonylvinylanilines, which gives an insight into the origin of the attractive or repulsive nature of O⋯O interactions.
A magnetic look into the protecting layer of Au25clusters
Authors: Agrachev Mikhail , Antonello Sabrina , Dainese Tiziano , Gascón José A. , Pan Fangfang , Rissanen Kari , Ruzzi Marco , Venzo Alfonso , Zoleo Alfonso , Maran Flavio
Published: September 2016

We prepared four structurally related paramagnetic Au25(SR)018 clusters.1H ENDOR and NMR signals could be successfully related to the types of ligand and the distance of protons from the central gold core. It is shown that the unpaired electron can be used as a very precise probe of the structure of the interface between metal core and capping ligands.
Non-equilibrium cytoquake dynamics in cytoskeletal remodeling and stabilization
Authors: Alencar Adriano Mesquita , Ferraz Mariana Sacrini Ayres , Park Chan Young , Millet Emil , Trepat Xavier , Fredberg Jeffrey J. , Butler James P.
Published: September 2016

The cytoskeleton (CSK) is a tensed fiber framework that supports, shapes and stabilizes the cell.