bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The anti-hyperglycemic efficacy of a lipid-lowering drug Daming capsule and the underlying signaling mechanisms in a rat model of diabetes mellitus
Authors: Zhang Yong , Li Xiaoguang , Li Jiamin , Zhang Qingwei , Chen Xiaohui , Liu Xin , Zhang Yue , Zhang Haiying , Yang Huan , Hu Yingying , Wu Xianxian , Li Xin , Ju Jiaming , Yang Baofeng
Published: October 2016

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder manifested by hyperglycemia. Daming Capsule (DMC), a combination of traditional Chinese herbs, is used clinically as a lipid-lowering drug. This study was designed to evaluate if DMC possesses an anti-hyperglycemic effect and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Compared to diabetic rats, the rats received DMC (200 mg/kg/d) had significantly lower blood lipid and glucose levels. DMC markedly restored the decreased secretion of GLP-1 and GIP as well as the coding gene GCG and GIP in ileum. Moreover, DMC normalized depressed GCG and GIP transcription by significantly enhancing the GSK-3β/β-catenin signaling pathway and expression of TCF7L2, a transactivator of GCG and GIP in diabetic rats. DMC possesses an anti-hyperglycemic property characterized by preservation/stimulation of GLP-1 and GIP secretion in DM rats. Here, we proposed DMC → GSK-3β/β-catenin↑ → TCF7L2↑ → GLP-1, GIP secretion↑ → blood glucose↓ as a regulatory pathway of blood glucose homeostasis. Our findings suggest DMC as a promising therapeutic drug in the clinical treatment of diabetes.
Neurodevelopmental Expression Profile of Dimeric and Monomeric Group 1 mGluRs: Relevance to Schizophrenia Pathogenesis and Treatment
Authors: Lum Jeremy S. , Fernandez Francesca , Matosin Natalie , Andrews Jessica L. , Huang Xu-Feng , Ooi Lezanne , Newell Kelly A.
Published: October 2016

Group 1 metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluR1/mGluR5) play an integral role in neurodevelopment and are implicated in psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia. mGluR1 and mGluR5 are expressed as homodimers, which is important for their functionality and pharmacology. We examined the protein expression of dimeric and monomeric mGluR1α and mGluR5 in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus throughout development (juvenile/adolescence/adulthood) and in the perinatal phencyclidine (PCP) model of schizophrenia. Under control conditions, mGluR1α dimer expression increased between juvenile and adolescence (209–328%), while monomeric levels remained consistent. Dimeric mGluR5 was steadily expressed across all time points; monomeric mGluR5 was present in juveniles, dramatically declining at adolescence and adulthood (−97–99%). The mGluR regulators, Homer 1b/c and Norbin, significantly increased with age in the PFC and hippocampus. Perinatal PCP treatment significantly increased juvenile dimeric mGluR5 levels in the PFC and hippocampus (37–50%) but decreased hippocampal mGluR1α (−50–56%). Perinatal PCP treatment also reduced mGluR1α dimer levels in the PFC at adulthood (−31%). These results suggest that Group 1 mGluRs have distinct dimeric and monomeric neurodevelopmental patterns, which may impact their pharmacological profiles at specific ages. Perinatal PCP treatment disrupted the early expression of Group 1 mGluRs which may underlie neurodevelopmental alterations observed in this model.
Characterization of WY 14,643 and its Complex with Aldose Reductase
Authors: Sawaya Michael R. , Verma Malkhey , Balendiran Vaishnavi , Rath Nigam P. , Cascio Duilio , Balendiran Ganesaratnam K.
Published: October 2016

The peroxisome proliferator, WY 14,643 exhibits a pure non-competitive inhibition pattern in the aldehyde reduction and in alcohol oxidation activities of human Aldose reductase (hAR). Fluorescence emission measurements of the equilibrium dissociation constants, Kd, of oxidized (hAR•NADP+) and reduced (hAR•NADPH) holoenzyme complexes display a 2-fold difference between them. Kd values for the dissociation of WY 14,643 from the oxidized (hAR•NADP+•WY 14,643) and reduced (hAR•NADPH•WY 14,643) ternary complexes are comparable to each other. The ternary complex structure of hAR•NADP+•WY 14,643 reveals the first structural evidence of a fibrate class drug binding to hAR. These observations demonstrate how fibrate molecules such as WY 14,643, besides being valued as agonists for PPAR, also inhibit hAR.
Darwin’s finches treat their feathers with a natural repellent
Authors: Cimadom Arno , Causton Charlotte , Cha Dong H. , Damiens David , Fessl Birgit , Hood-Nowotny Rebecca , Lincango Piedad , Mieles Alejandro E. , Nemeth Erwin , Semler Elizabeth M. , Teale Stephen A. , Tebbich Sabine
Published: October 2016

Darwin’s finches are highly innovative. Recently we recorded for the first time a behavioural innovation in Darwin’s finches outside the foraging context: individuals of four species rubbed leaves of the endemic tree Psidium galapageium on their feathers. We hypothesised that this behaviour serves to repel ectoparasites and tested the repellency of P. galapageium leaf extracts against parasites that negatively affect the fitness of Darwin’s finches, namely mosquitoes and the invasive hematophagous fly Philornis downsi. Mosquitoes transmit pathogens which have recently been introduced by humans and the larvae of the fly suck blood from nestlings and incubating females. Our experimental evidence demonstrates that P. galapageium leaf extracts repel both mosquitoes and adult P. downsi and also inhibit the growth of P. downsi larvae. It is therefore possible that finches use this plant to repel ectopoarasites.
HIV-1 Vpr N-terminal tagging affects alternative splicing of the viral genome
Authors: Baeyens Ann , Naessens Evelien , Van Nuffel Anouk , Weening Karin E. , Reilly Anne-Marie , Claeys Eva , Trypsteen Wim , Vandekerckhove Linos , Eyckerman Sven , Gevaert Kris , Verhasselt Bruno
Published: October 2016

To facilitate studies on Vpr function in replicating HIV-1, we aimed to tag the protein in an infectious virus. First we showed that N-, but not C-terminal HA/FLAG tagging of Vpr protein preserves Vpr cytopathicity. Cloning the tags into proviral DNA however ablated viral production and replication. By construction of additional viral variants we could show this defect was not protein- but RNA-dependent and sequence specific, and characterized by oversplicing of the genomic RNA. Simulation of genomic RNA folding suggested that introduction of the tag sequence induced an alternative folding structure in a region enriched in splice sites and splicing regulatory sequences. In silico predictions identified the HA/His6-Vpr tagging in HIV-1 to affect mRNA folding less than HA/FLAG-Vpr tagging. In vitro infectivity and mRNA splice pattern improved but did not reach wild-type values. Thus, sequence-specific insertions may interfere with mRNA splicing, possibly due to altered RNA folding. Our results point to the complexity of viral RNA genome sequence interactions. This should be taken into consideration when designing viral manipulation strategies, for both research as for biological interventions.
Direct and contactless electrical control of temperature of paper and textile foldable substrates using electrospun metallic-web transparent electrodes
Authors: Busuioc Cristina , Evanghelidis Alexandru , Galatanu Andrei , Enculescu Ionut
Published: October 2016

Multiple and complex functionalities are a demand nowadays for almost all materials, including common day-to-day materials such as paper, textiles, wood, etc. In the present report, the surface temperature control of different types of materials, including paper and textiles, was demonstrated by Joule heating of metallic-web transparent electrodes both by direct current and by RF induced eddy currents. Polymeric submicronic fiber webs were prepared by electrospinning, and metal sputtering was subsequently performed to transform them into flexible transparent electrodes. These electrodes were thermally attached to different substrates, including paper, textiles and glass. Using thermochromic inks, we demonstrated a high degree of control of the substrates’ surface temperature by means of the Joule effect. Metallic fiber webs appear to be excellently suited for use as transparent electrodes for controlling the surface temperature of common materials, their highly flexible nature being a major advantage when dealing with rough, bendable substrates. This kind of result could not be achieved on bendable substrates with rough surfaces such as paper or textiles while employing classical transparent electrodes i.e. metal oxides. Moreover, contactless heating with induced currents is a premiere for transparent electrodes and opens up a score of new application fields.
Testing Modeling Assumptions in the West Africa Ebola Outbreak
Authors: Burghardt Keith , Verzijl Christopher , Huang Junming , Ingram Matthew , Song Binyang , Hasne Marie-Pierre
Published: October 2016

The Ebola virus in West Africa has infected almost 30,000 and killed over 11,000 people. Recent models of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) have often made assumptions about how the disease spreads, such as uniform transmissibility and homogeneous mixing within a population. In this paper, we test whether these assumptions are necessarily correct, and offer simple solutions that may improve disease model accuracy. First, we use data and models of West African migration to show that EVD does not homogeneously mix, but spreads in a predictable manner. Next, we estimate the initial growth rate of EVD within country administrative divisions and find that it significantly decreases with population density. Finally, we test whether EVD strains have uniform transmissibility through a novel statistical test, and find that certain strains appear more often than expected by chance.
IGF-I induces senescence of hepatic stellate cells and limits fibrosis in a p53-dependent manner
Authors: Nishizawa Hitoshi , Iguchi Genzo , Fukuoka Hidenori , Takahashi Michiko , Suda Kentaro , Bando Hironori , Matsumoto Ryusaku , Yoshida Kenichi , Odake Yukiko , Ogawa Wataru , Takahashi Yutaka
Published: October 2016

Hepatic fibrosis in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and cirrhosis determines patient prognosis; however, effective treatment for fibrosis has not been established. Oxidative stress and inflammation activate hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and promote fibrosis. In contrast, cellular senescence inhibits HSCs’ activity and limits fibrosis. The aim of this study was to explore the effect of IGF-I on NASH and cirrhotic models and to clarify the underlying mechanisms. We demonstrate that IGF-I significantly ameliorated steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis in a NASH model, methionine-choline-deficient diet-fed db/db mice and ameliorated fibrosis in cirrhotic model, dimethylnitrosamine-treated mice. As the underlying mechanisms, IGF-I improved oxidative stress and mitochondrial function in the liver. In addition, IGF-I receptor was strongly expressed in HSCs and IGF-I induced cellular senescence in HSCs in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, in mice lacking the key senescence regulator p53, IGF-I did not induce cellular senescence in HSCs or show any effects on fibrosis. Taken together, these results indicate that IGF-I induces senescence of HSCs, inactivates these cells and limits fibrosis in a p53-dependent manner and that IGF-I may be applied to treat NASH and cirrhosis.
Erratum: Pseudomonas spp. diversity is negatively associated with suppression of the wheat take-all pathogen
Authors: Mehrabi Zia , McMillan Vanessa E. , Clark Ian M. , Canning Gail , Hammond-Kosack Kim E. , Preston Gail , Hirsch Penny R. , Mauchline Tim H.
Published: October 2016

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 29905; published online: 23 August 2016; updated: 10 October 2016.
NLRP3 inflammasome mediates contrast media-induced acute kidney injury by regulating cell apoptosis
Authors: Shen Jianxiao , Wang Ling , Jiang Na , Mou Shan , Zhang Minfang , Gu Leyi , Shao Xinghua , Wang Qin , Qi Chaojun , Li Shu , Wang Wanpeng , Che Xiajing , Ni Zhaohui
Published: October 2016

Iodinated contrast media serves as a direct causative factor of acute kidney injury (AKI) and is involved in the progression of cellular dysfunction and apoptosis. Emerging evidence indicates that NLRP3 inflammasome triggers inflammation, apoptosis and tissue injury during AKI. Nevertheless, the underlying renoprotection mechanism of NLRP3 inflammasome against contrast-induced AKI (CI-AKI) was still uncertain. This study investigated the role of NLRP3 inflammasome in CI-AKI both in vitro and in vivo. In HK-2 cells and unilateral nephrectomy model, NLRP3 and NLRP3 inflammasome member ASC were significantly augmented with the treatment of contrast media. Moreover, genetic disruption of NLRP3 notably reversed contrast-induced expression of apoptosis related proteins and secretion of proinflammatory factors, similarly to the effects of ASC deletion. Consistent with above results, absence of NLRP3 in mice undergoing unilateral nephrectomy also protected against contrast media-induced renal cells phenotypic alteration and cell apoptosis via modulating expression level of apoptotic proteins. Collectively, we demonstrated that NLRP3 inflammasome mediated CI-AKI through modulating the apoptotic pathway, which provided a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of contrast media induced acute kidney injury.
Quantitative analysis of dinoflagellates and diatoms community via Miseq sequencing of actin gene and v9 region of 18S rDNA
Authors: Guo Liliang , Sui Zhenghong , Liu Yuan
Published: October 2016

Miseq sequencing and data analysis for the actin gene and v9 region of 18S rDNA of 7 simulated samples consisting of different mixture of dinoflagellates and diatoms were carried out. Not all the species were detectable in all the 18S v9 samples, and sequence percent in all the v9 samples were not consistent with the corresponding cell percent which may suggest that 18S rDNA copy number in different cells of these species differed greatly which result in the large deviation of the amplification. And 18S rDNA amplification of the microalgae was prone to be contaminated by fungus. The amplification of actin gene all was from the dinoflagellates because of its targeted degenerate primers. All the actin sequences of dinoflagellates were detected in the act samples except act4, and sequence percentage of the dinoflagellates in the act samples was not completely consistent with the dinoflagellates percentage of cell samples, but with certain amplification deviations. Indexes of alpha diversity of actin gene sequencing may be better reflection of community structure, and beta diversity analysis could cluster the dinoflagellates samples with identical or similar composition together and was distinguishable with blooming simulating samples at the generic level. Hence, actin gene was more proper than rDNA as the molecular marker for the community analysis of the dinoflagellates.
Infrared vibrational spectroscopy: a rapid and novel diagnostic and monitoring tool for cystinuria
Authors: Oliver Katherine V. , Vilasi Annalisa , Maréchal Amandine , Moochhala Shabbir H. , Unwin Robert J. , Rich Peter R.
Published: October 2016

Cystinuria is the commonest inherited cause of nephrolithiasis (~1% in adults; ~6% in children) and is the result of impaired cystine reabsorption in the renal proximal tubule. Cystine is poorly soluble in urine with a solubility of ~1 mM and can readily form microcrystals that lead to cystine stone formation, especially at low urine pH. Diagnosis of cystinuria is made typically by ion-exchange chromatography (IEC) detection and quantitation, which is slow, laboursome and costly. More rapid and frequent monitoring of urinary cystine concentration would significantly improve the diagnosis and clinical management of cystinuria. We used attenuated total reflection - Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) to detect and quantitate insoluble cystine in 22 cystinuric and 5 healthy control urine samples. Creatinine concentration was also determined by ATR-FTIR to adjust for urinary concentration/dilution. Urine was centrifuged, the insoluble fraction re-suspended in 5 μL water and dried on the ATR prism. Cystine was quantitated using its 1296 cm−1 absorption band and levels matched with parallel measurements made using IEC. ATR-FTIR afforded a rapid and inexpensive method of detecting and quantitating insoluble urinary cystine. This proof-of-concept study provides a basis for developing a high-throughput, cost-effective diagnostic method for cystinuria, and for point-of-care clinical monitoring
Cosmic radiation exposure and persistent cognitive dysfunction
Authors: Parihar Vipan K. , Allen Barrett D. , Caressi Chongshan , Kwok Stephanie , Chu Esther , Tran Katherine K. , Chmielewski Nicole N. , Giedzinski Erich , Acharya Munjal M. , Britten Richard A. , Baulch Janet E. , Limoli Charles L.
Published: October 2016

The Mars mission will result in an inevitable exposure to cosmic radiation that has been shown to cause cognitive impairments in rodent models, and possibly in astronauts engaged in deep space travel. Of particular concern is the potential for cosmic radiation exposure to compromise critical decision making during normal operations or under emergency conditions in deep space. Rodents exposed to cosmic radiation exhibit persistent hippocampal and cortical based performance decrements using six independent behavioral tasks administered between separate cohorts 12 and 24 weeks after irradiation. Radiation-induced impairments in spatial, episodic and recognition memory were temporally coincident with deficits in executive function and reduced rates of fear extinction and elevated anxiety. Irradiation caused significant reductions in dendritic complexity, spine density and altered spine morphology along medial prefrontal cortical neurons known to mediate neurotransmission interrogated by our behavioral tasks. Cosmic radiation also disrupted synaptic integrity and increased neuroinflammation that persisted more than 6 months after exposure. Behavioral deficits for individual animals correlated significantly with reduced spine density and increased synaptic puncta, providing quantitative measures of risk for developing cognitive impairment. Our data provide additional evidence that deep space travel poses a real and unique threat to the integrity of neural circuits in the brain.
Contrasting effects of nitrogen and phosphorus addition on soil respiration in an alpine grassland on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Ren Fei , Yang Xiaoxia , Zhou Huakun , Zhu Wenyan , Zhang Zhenhua , Chen Litong , Cao Guangmin , He Jin-Sheng
Published: October 2016

High soil organic carbon content, extensive root biomass, and low nutrient availability make alpine grasslands an important ecosystem for assessing the influence of nutrient enrichment on soil respiration (SR). We conducted a four-year (2009–2012) field experiment in an alpine grassland on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau to examine the individual and combined effects of nitrogen (N, 100 kg ha−1year−1) and phosphorus (P, 50 kg ha−1year−1) addition on SR. We found that both N and P addition did not affect the overall growing-season SR but effects varied by year: with N addition SR increased in the first year but decreased during the last two years. However, while P addition did not affect SR during the first two years, SR increased during the last two years. No interactive effects of N and P addition were observed, and both N addition and P addition reduced heterotrophic respiration during the last year of the experiment. N and P addition affected SR via different processes: N mainly affected heterotrophic respiration, whereas P largely influenced autotrophic respiration. Our results highlight the divergent effects of N and P addition on SR and address the important potential of P enrichment for regulating SR and the carbon balance in alpine grasslands.
A transgenic mouse model expressing an ERα folding biosensor reveals the effects of Bisphenol A on estrogen receptor signaling
Authors: Sekar Thillai V. , Foygel Kira , Massoud Tarik F. , Gambhir Sanjiv S. , Paulmurugan Ramasamy
Published: October 2016

Estrogen receptor-α (ERα) plays an important role in normal and abnormal physiology of the human reproductive system by interacting with the endogenous ligand estradiol (E2). However, other ligands, either analogous or dissimilar to E2, also bind to ERα. This may create unintentional activation of ER signaling in reproductive tissues that can lead to cancer development. We developed a transgenic mouse model that constitutively expresses a firefly luciferase (FLuc) split reporter complementation biosensor (NFLuc-ER-LBDG521T-CFLuc) to simultaneously evaluate the dynamics and potency of ligands that bind to ERα. We first validated this model using various ER ligands, including Raloxifene, Diethylstilbestrol, E2, and 4-hydroxytamoxifen, by employing FLuc-based optical bioluminescence imaging of living mice. We then used the model to investigate the carcinogenic property of Bisphenol A (BPA), an environmental estrogen, by long-term exposure at full and half environmental doses. We showed significant carcinogenic effects on female animals while revealing activated downstream ER signaling as measured by bioluminescence imaging. BPA induced tumor-like outgrowths in female transgenic mice, histopathologically confirmed to be neoplastic and epithelial in origin. This transgenic mouse model expressing an ERα folding-biosensor is useful in evaluation of estrogenic ligands and their downstream effects, and in studying environmental estrogen induced carcinogenesis in vivo.
Ecosystem responses to warming and watering in typical and desert steppes
Authors: Xu Zhenzhu , Hou Yanhui , Zhang Lihua , Liu Tao , Zhou Guangsheng
Published: October 2016

Global warming is projected to continue, leading to intense fluctuations in precipitation and heat waves and thereby affecting the productivity and the relevant biological processes of grassland ecosystems. Here, we determined the functional responses to warming and altered precipitation in both typical and desert steppes. The results showed that watering markedly increased the aboveground net primary productivity (ANPP) in a typical steppe during a drier year and in a desert steppe over two years, whereas warming manipulation had no significant effect. The soil microbial biomass carbon (MBC) and the soil respiration (SR) were increased by watering in both steppes, but the SR was significantly decreased by warming in the desert steppe only. The inorganic nitrogen components varied irregularly, with generally lower levels in the desert steppe. The belowground traits of soil total organic carbon (TOC) and the MBC were more closely associated with the ANPP in the desert than in the typical steppes. The results showed that the desert steppe with lower productivity may respond strongly to precipitation changes, particularly with warming, highlighting the positive effect of adding water with warming. Our study implies that the habitat- and year-specific responses to warming and watering should be considered when predicting an ecosystem’s functional responses under climate change scenarios.
Genetic evaluation of the breeding population of a valuable reforestation conifer Platycladus orientalis (Cupressaceae)
Authors: Jin Yuqing , Ma Yongpeng , Wang Shun , Hu Xian-Ge , Huang Li-Sha , Li Yue , Wang Xiao-Ru , Mao Jian-Feng
Published: October 2016

Platycladus orientalis, a widespread conifer with long lifespan and significant adaptability. It is much used in reforestation in north China and commonly planted in central Asia. With the increasing demand for plantation forest in central to north China, breeding programs are progressively established for this species. Efficient use of breeding resources requires good understanding of the genetic value of the founder breeding materials. This study investigated the distribution of genetic variation in 192 elite trees collected for the breeding program for the central range of the species. We developed first set of 27 polymorphic EST-derived SSR loci for the species from transcriptome/genome data. After examination of amplification quality, 10 loci were used to evaluate the genetic variation in the breeding population. We found moderate genetic diversity (averageHe = 0.348) and low population differentiation (Fst = 0.011). Extensive admixture and no significant geographic population structure characterized this set of collections. Our analyses of the diversity and population structure are important steps toward a long-term sustainable deployment of the species and provide valuable genetic information for conservation and breeding applications.
Performance of a Taqman Assay for Improved Detection and Quantification of Human Rhinovirus Viral Load
Authors: Ng Kim Tien , Chook Jack Bee , Oong Xiang Yong , Chan Yoke Fun , Chan Kok Gan , Hanafi Nik Sherina , Pang Yong Kek , Kamarulzaman Adeeba , Tee Kok Keng
Published: October 2016

Human rhinovirus (HRV) is the major aetiology of respiratory tract infections. HRV viral load assays are available but limitations that affect accurate quantification exist. We developed a one-step Taqman assay using oligonucleotides designed based on a comprehensive list of global HRV sequences. The new oligonucleotides targeting the 5′-UTR region showed high PCR efficiency (E = 99.6%, R2 = 0.996), with quantifiable viral load as low as 2 viral copies/μl. Assay evaluation using an External Quality Assessment (EQA) panel yielded a detection rate of 90%. When tested on 315 human enterovirus-positive specimens comprising at least 84 genetically distinct HRV types/serotypes (determined by the VP4/VP2 gene phylogenetic analysis), the assay detected all HRV species and types, as well as other non-polio enteroviruses. A commercial quantification kit, which failed to detect any of the EQA specimens, produced a detection rate of 13.3% (42/315) among the clinical specimens. Using the improved assay, we showed that HRV sheds in the upper respiratory tract for more than a week following acute infection. We also showed that HRV-C had a significantly higher viral load at 2–7 days after the onset of symptoms (p = 0.001). The availability of such assay is important to facilitate disease management, antiviral development, and infection control.
Potential differentiation ability of gingiva originated human mesenchymal stem cell in the presence of tacrolimus
Authors: Ha Dong-Ho , Pathak Shiva , Yong Chul Soon , Kim Jong Oh , Jeong Jee-Heon , Park Jun-Beom
Published: October 2016

The aim of the present study is to evaluate the potential differentiation ability of gingiva originated human mesenchymal stem cell in the presence of tacrolimus. Tacrolimus-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) microspheres were prepared using electrospraying technique. In vitro release study of tacrolimus-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) microspheres was performed in phosphate-buffered saline (pH 7.4). Gingiva-derived stem cells were isolated and incubated with tacrolimus or tacrolimus-loaded microspheres. Release study of the microspheres revealed prolonged release profiles of tacrolimus without any significant initial burst release. The microsphere itself did not affect the morphology of the mesenchymal stem cells, and cell morphology was retained after incubation with microspheres loaded with tacrolimus at 1 μg/mL to 10 μg/mL. Cultures grown in the presence of microspheres loaded with tacrolimus at 1 μg/mL showed the highest mineralization. Alkaline phosphatase activity increased with an increase in incubation time. The highest expression of pSmad1/5 was achieved in the group receiving tacrolimus 0.1 μg/mL every third day, and the highest expression of osteocalcin was achieved in the group receiving 1 μg/mL every third day. Biodegradable poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)-based microspheres loaded with tacrolimus promoted mineralization. Microspheres loaded with tacrolimus may be applied for increased osteoblastic differentiation.
Multiple-factor analysis of the first radioactive iodine therapy in post-operative patients with differentiated thyroid cancer for achieving a disease-free status
Authors: Liu Na , Meng Zhaowei , Jia Qiang , Tan Jian , Zhang Guizhi , Zheng Wei , Wang Renfei , Li Xue , Hu Tianpeng , Upadhyaya Arun , Zhou Pingping , Wang Sen
Published: October 2016

131I treatment is an important management method for patients with differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC). Unsuccessful 131I ablation drastically affects the prognosis of the patients. This study aimed to analyze potential predictive factors influencing the achievement of a disease-free status following the first 131I therapy. This retrospective review included 315 DTC patients, and multiple factors were analyzed. Tumor size, pathological tumor stage, lymph node (LN) metastasis, distant metastasis, American Thyroid Association recommended risks, pre-ablation thyroglobulin (Tg), and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) displayed significant differences between unsuccessful and successful group. Cutoff values of Tg and TSH to predict a successful outcome were 3.525 ng/mL and 99.700 uIU/ml by receiver operating characteristic curves analysis. Binary logistic regression analysis showed that tumor stage T3 or T4, LN metastasis to N1b station, intermediate and high risks, pre-ablation Tg ≥ 3.525 ng/ml and TSH <99.700 μIU/mL were significantly associated with unsuccessful outcomes. Logistic regression equation for achieving a disease-free status could be rendered as: y (successful treatment) = −0.270–0.503 X1 (LN metastasis) −0.236 X2 (Tg) + 0.015 X3 (TSH). This study demonstrated LN metastasis, pre-ablation Tg and TSH were the most powerful predictors for achieving a disease-free status by the first 131I therapy.
GFinisher: a new strategy to refine and finish bacterial genome assemblies
Authors: Guizelini Dieval , Raittz Roberto T. , Cruz Leonardo M. , Souza Emanuel M. , Steffens Maria B. R. , Pedrosa Fabio O.
Published: October 2016

Despite the development in DNA sequencing technology, improving the number and the length of reads, the process of reconstruction of complete genome sequences, the so called genome assembly, is still complex. Only 13% of the prokaryotic genome sequencing projects have been completed. Draft genome sequences deposited in public databases are fragmented in contigs and may lack the full gene complement. The aim of the present work is to identify assembly errors and improve the assembly process of bacterial genomes. The biological patterns observed in genomic sequences and the application of a priori information can allow the identification of misassembled regions, and the reorganization and improvement of the overall de novo genome assembly. GFinisher starts generating a Fuzzy GC skew graphs for each contig in an assembly and follows breaking down the contigs in critical points in order to reassemble and close them using jFGap. This has been successfully applied to dataset from 96 genome assemblies, decreasing the number of contigs by up to 86%. GFinisher can easily optimize assemblies of prokaryotic draft genomes and can be used to improve the assembly programs based on nucleotide sequence patterns in the genome. The software and source code are available at http://gfinisher.sourceforge.net/.
Autonomously folded α-helical lockers promote RNAi*
Authors: Guyader Christian P. E. , Lamarre Baptiste , De Santis Emiliana , Noble James E. , Slater Nigel K. , Ryadnov Maxim G.
Published: October 2016

RNAi is an indispensable research tool with a substantial therapeutic potential. However, the complete transition of the approach to an applied capability remains hampered due to poorly understood relationships between siRNA delivery and gene suppression. Here we propose that interfacial tertiary contacts between α-helices can regulate siRNA cytoplasmic delivery and RNAi. We introduce a rationale of helical amphipathic lockers that differentiates autonomously folded helices, which promote gene silencing, from helices folded with siRNA, which do not. Each of the helical designs can deliver siRNA into cells via energy-dependent endocytosis, while only autonomously folded helices with pre-locked hydrophobic interfaces were able to promote statistically appreciable gene silencing. We propose that it is the amphipathic locking of interfacing helices prior to binding to siRNA that enables RNAi. The rationale offers structurally balanced amphipathic scaffolds to advance the exploitation of functional RNAi.
MHDA-Functionalized Multiwall Carbon Nanotubes for detecting non-aromatic VOCs
Authors: Thamri Atef , Baccar Hamdi , Struzzi Claudia , Bittencourt Carla , Abdelghani Adnane , Llobet Eduard
Published: October 2016

The chemical modification of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) with a long chain mercapto acid is reported as a way to improve sensitivity and response time of gas sensors for detecting alcohols, acetone and toxic gases such as DMMP. We have developed sensors employing MWCNTs decorated with gold nanoparticles and modified with a 16-mercaptohexadecanoic acid (MHDA) monolayer. Morphological and compositional analysis by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Fourier Transform Infra-red Spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy were performed to characterize the gold nanoparticles and to check the bonding of the thiol monolayer. The detection of aromatic and non-aromatic volatiles and DMMP vapors by MWCNT/Au and MWCNT/Au/MHDA shows that the presence of the self-assembled layer increases sensitivity and selectivity towards non-aromatics. Furthermore, it ameliorates response dynamics, and significantly reduces nitrogen dioxide and moisture cross-sensitivity.
Rapid discrimination of Enterococcus faecium strains using phenotypic analytical techniques
Authors: AlMasoud Najla , Xu Yun , Ellis David I. , Rooney Paul , Turton Jane F. , Goodacre Royston
Published: October 2016

Clinical isolates of glycopeptide resistant enterococci (GRE) were used to compare three rapid phenotyping and analytical techniques.
Manipulating pH using near-infrared light assisted by upconverting nanoparticles
Authors: Chen Zhijun , Xiong Yubing , Etchenique Roberto , Wu Si
Published: October 2016

Control of pH was achieved using near-infrared light assisted by upconverting nanoparticles and a ruthenium complex photobase.
Predicting the composition and formation of solid products in lithium–sulfur batteries by using an experimental phase diagram
Authors: Dibden J. W. , Smith J. W. , Zhou N. , Garcia-Araez N. , Owen J. R.
Published: October 2016

A new predictive and diagnostic tool for Li–S battery development.
Imaging plasma membrane phase behaviour in live cells using a thiophene-based molecular rotor
Authors: Dent Michael R. , López-Duarte Ismael , Dickson Callum J. , Chairatana Phoom , Anderson Harry L. , Gould Ian R. , Wylie Douglas , Vyšniauskas Aurimas , Brooks Nicholas J. , Kuimova Marina K.
Published: October 2016

A thiophene-based molecular rotor was used to probe ordering and viscosity within artificial lipid bilayers and live cell plasma membranes.
A plasmonic liquid junction photovoltaic cell with greatly improved power conversion efficiency
Authors: Lee Woo-ram , Navarrete Jose , Evanko Brian , Stucky Galen D. , Mubeen Syed , Moskovits Martin
Published: October 2016

A novel and improved plasmon liquid-junction PV cell is reported by engineering the optical absorption of the plasmonic electrode and interfacial energetics of the contacting electrolyte.
Stabilizing surface Ag adatoms into tunable single atom arrays by terminal alkyne assembly
Authors: Liu Jing , Fu Xiangyu , Chen Qiwei , Zhang Yajie , Wang Yongfeng , Zhao Dahui , Chen Wei , Xu Guo Qin , Liao Peilin , Wu Kai
Published: October 2016

A series of two-dimensional ordered single Ag adatom arrays on Ag(111) were prepared by a terminal alkyne assembly approach.
Experimental and theoretical studies on methylene blue and methyl orange sorption by wheat straw-derived biochar with a large surface area
Authors: Wang Peifang , Wu Chuangfei , Guo Yong , Wang Chao
Published: October 2016

MB hydrolyzes in water and the existing forms in water include both the well-accepted MB+ and the hydrolyzed form of MB+.
Novel metal-free organic dyes possessing fused heterocyclic structural motifs for efficient molecular photovoltaics
Authors: Karuppasamy Ayyanar , Stalindurai Kesavan , Peng Jia-De , Ho Kuo-Chuan , Ramalingan Chennan
Published: October 2016

Fused heterocyclic structural motifs possessing novel organic dyes have been synthesized as efficient sensitizers with a highest PCE of 8.08%.
The segregation resistance of the Pt2ML/Os/Pd3Al sandwich catalyst for oxygen reduction reaction: a density functional theory study
Authors: Xiao B. B. , Jiang X. B. , Yang X. L. , Jiang Q. , Zheng F.
Published: October 2016

The Pt2ML/Os/Pd3Al catalyst is designed to suppress the migration of Al by inserting an Os monolayer at the interface between the Pd3Al core and Pt shell.
Selective arene production from transfer hydrogenolysis of benzyl phenyl ether promoted by a co-precipitated Pd/Fe3O4 catalyst
Authors: Paone E. , Espro C. , Pietropaolo R. , Mauriello F.
Published: October 2016

The catalytic transfer hydrogenolysis (CTH) of benzyl phenyl ether has been investigated using Pd/Fe3O4 as a heterogeneous catalyst and 2-propanol as a H-donor. After 90 minutes at 240 °C, the cleavage of the ester C–O bond occurs as the only reaction route, whereas hydrogenation of the aromatic ring was not observed.
Rb2SeOCl4·H2O: a polar material among the alkali metal selenite halides with a strong SHG response
Authors: Wu Qi , Liu Hongming , Kang Lei , Lin Zheshuai , Meng Xianggao , Chen Xingguo , Qin Jingui
Published: October 2016

The synthesis, crystal structure and properties of Rb2SeOCl4·H2O, the first polar material among the A–Se–O–X systems (A = alkali metal or alkali-earth metal), is presented. It shows a powder SHG response of 8 times that of KDP.
Hydrothermal preparation of perovskite structures DyCrO3 and HoCrO3
Authors: Wang Shan , Hou Changmin , Yuan Long , Qu Mingyang , Zou Bo , Lu Dayong
Published: October 2016

Monodispersed samples of perovskite structures, DyCrO3 and HoCrO3, were prepared by a mild hydrothermal method. These two samples show a weak antiferromagnetism to paramagnetism transition at ca. 100 K, which is much lower than that of samples prepared by a solid state method.
Narrow-band red emitting phosphor BaTiF6:Mn4+: preparation, characterization and application for warm white LED devices
Authors: Gao Xiaoli , Song Yan , Liu Guixia , Dong Xiangting , Wang Jinxian , Yu Wensheng
Published: October 2016

A narrow-band red emitting BaTiF6:Mn4+phosphor with a microspindle morphology is applied to warm white LEDs by combination with a blue chip and YAG:Ce3+.
Engineering a thermostable transketolase for arylated substrates
Authors: Saravanan Thangavelu , Reif Marie-Luise , Yi Dong , Lorillière Marion , Charmantray Franck , Hecquet Laurence , Fessner Wolf-Dieter
Published: October 2016

Transketolase variants were engineered to utilize arylalkanals and benzaldehyde as substrates with up to 28-fold rate acceleration for C–C bond formation with good yields (50–73%) and virtually complete (3S)-stereoselectivity (>99% ee).
Numerical simulation of micro-particle rotation by the acoustic viscous torque
Authors: Hahn Philipp , Lamprecht Andreas , Dual Jurg
Published: October 2016

To simulate the micro-particle rotation by the acoustic viscous torque, we resolve the 3D acoustic streaming flow around the arbitrarily shaped particle.
Inertial focusing of ellipsoidal Euglena gracilis cells in a stepped microchannel
Authors: Li M. , Muñoz H. E. , Schmidt A. , Guo B. , Lei C. , Goda K. , Di Carlo D.
Published: October 2016

We study the behaviors of ellipsoidal microalgal cells with varying aspect ratios using inertial microfluidics for biofuels and environmental applications.
Optical phonons in methylammonium lead halide perovskites and implications for charge transport
Authors: Sendner Michael , Nayak Pabitra K. , Egger David A. , Beck Sebastian , Müller Christian , Epding Bernd , Kowalsky Wolfgang , Kronik Leeor , Snaith Henry J. , Pucci Annemarie , Lovrinčić Robert
Published: October 2016

The measured optical phonon frequencies are used to determine the electron–phonon coupling and upper limits for charge carrier mobilities.
Theoretical studies on the propulsive and explosive performance of strained polycyclic cage compounds
Authors: Mallick Lovely , Lal Sohan , Reshmi Sasidharakurup , Namboothiri Irishi N. N. , Chowdhury Arindrajit , Kumbhakarna Neeraj
Published: October 2016

Carbon-based cage compounds could be better candidates as propellant ingredients than the currently used ones as per molecular modellingab initiocalculations.
Hiding and unveiling trans-chalcone in a constrained derivative of 4′,7-dihydroxyflavylium in water: a versatile photochromic system
Authors: Pessêgo Márcia , Gago Sandra , Basílio Nuno , Laia César A. T. , Jorge Parola A. , Lima João C. , Pina Fernando
Published: October 2016

Rigidifying 4′,7-dihydroxyflavylium prevents the formation of trans-chalcone (Ct). The addition of CTAB micelles unveils Ct enabling photochromism. Disrupting the micelles with α-cyclodextrin returns the system to its initial state.
Isolation and structural analysis of the covalent adduct formed between a bis-amino mitoxantrone analogue and DNA: a pathway to major–minor groove cross-linked adducts
Authors: Konda Shyam K. , Kelso Celine , Medan Jelena , Sleebs Brad E. , Phillips Don R. , Cutts Suzanne M. , Collins J. Grant
Published: October 2016

The major covalent adduct formed between a formaldehyde activated bis-amino mitoxantrone analogue and d(CG5MeCGCG)2has been isolated and characterised.
Supramolecular engineering polyesters: endgroup functionalization of glycol modified PET with ureidopyrimidinone
Authors: Houston Katelyn R. , Jackson Anne-Martine S. , Yost Ross W. , Carman Howard S. , Sheares Ashby Valerie
Published: October 2016

We report the first supramolecular engineering polymer with melt viscosity suitable for non-degradative processing plus enhanced thermal and mechanical properties.
Visible and sunlight driven RAFT photopolymerization accelerated by amines: kinetics and mechanism
Authors: Allegrezza Michael L. , DeMartini Zachary M. , Kloster Alex J. , Digby Zachary A. , Konkolewicz Dominik
Published: October 2016

RAFT polymerization using only tertiary amines under visible light or sunlight is studied, to determine the kinetics of polymerization, and the system is applied to various monomers giving well-defined homo and block copolymers.
A hydro-metallogel of an amphiphilic l-histidine with ferric ions: shear-triggered self-healing and shrinkage
Authors: Chen Jie , Wang Tianyu , Liu Minghua
Published: October 2016

An amphiphilic l-histidine derivative was found to form a hydro-metallogel showing dual shrinkage and self-healing properties.
A sponge network-shaped Mn3O4/C anode derived from a simple, one-pot metal organic framework-combustion technique for improved lithium ion storage
Authors: Sambandam Balaji , Soundharrajan Vaiyapuri , Song Jinju , Kim Sungjin , Jo Jeonggeun , Tung Duong Pham , Kim Seokhun , Mathew Vinod , Kim Jaekook
Published: October 2016

Sponge shaped Mn3O4/C anode derived from simple, one-pot MOF-C technique exhibits excellent cyclability for lithium ion batteries.
AIE-active β-diketones containing pyridiniums: fluorogenic binding to cellulose and water-vapour-recoverable mechanochromic luminescence
Authors: Xie Tongqing , Zhang Baicheng , Zhang Xuepeng , Zhang Guoqing
Published: October 2016

Combined properties including aggregation-induced emission, fluorogenic binding to cellulose and water-vapour-recoverable mechanochromic luminescence were found on facilely synthesized β-diketone pyridiniums.
Cobalt(iii)-catalyzed cross-coupling of enamides with allyl acetates/maleimides
Authors: Yu Wenlong , Zhang Wei , Liu Yue , Liu Zhanxiang , Zhang Yuhong
Published: October 2016

Cp*Co(iii)-catalyzed direct allylation of enamides has been accomplished with the exclusive formation of allylated Z-enamides with high efficiency.
The facile and stereoselective synthesis of pyrrolidine β-amino acids via copper(i)-catalyzed asymmetric 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition
Authors: He Fu-Sheng , Li Cong-Shan , Deng Hua , Zheng Xing , Yang Zhong-Tao , Deng Wei-Ping
Published: October 2016

A highly efficient copper(i)-catalyzed asymmetric 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition was developed, which provides a straightforward and efficient pathway to highly functionalized free pyrrolidine β-amino acids.
Colloidal silver nanoparticles: an effective nano-filler material to prevent fungal proliferation in bamboo
Authors: Pandoli O. , Martins R. D. S. , Romani E. C. , Paciornik S. , Maurício M. H. D. P. , Alves H. D. L. , Pereira-Meirelles F. V. , Luz E. L. , Koller S. M. L. , Valiente H. , Ghavami K.
Published: October 2016

Silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) are effective nano-filler agents with antifungal activity able to improve bamboo's durability against fungus. Ag-NPs were used to fill up the bamboo biological matrix to obtain an engineered biocomposite material.
Thermal-assisted gasification injector for analyzing high-salt solution samples: a novel device developed for online coupling of liquid chromatography with direct analysis in real time mass spectrometry
Authors: Zhou Feng , Liu Shu , Xing Junpeng , Song Fengrui , Liu Zhiqiang , Liu Shuying
Published: October 2016

A thermal-assisted gasification injector was designed for online coupling of liquid-chromatography to direct-analysis-in-real-time mass-spectrometry. The method can be used in analysis with an inorganic salt matrix and weak polar solvent.
Solar-blind photodetector based on Ga2O3 nanowires array film growth from inserted Al2O3 ultrathin interlayers for improving responsivity
Authors: Cui Wei , Guo Daoyou , Zhao Xiaolong , Wu Zhenping , Li Peigang , Li Linghong , Cui Can , Tang Weihua
Published: October 2016

We propose a method to obtain Ga2O3 nanowire films which combines the benefits of nanowires and thin films by alternative deposition of Ga2O3 and Al2O3 ultrathin layers. The nanowire film-based photodetectors exhibit much higher responsivities than smooth film-based ones.
Efficient and fast removal of Pb(ii) by facile prepared magnetic vermiculite from aqueous solution
Authors: Yao Jun , Chen Yan , Yu Haiqin , Liu Tiantian , Yan Liangguo , Du Bin , Cui Yizhe
Published: October 2016

Magnetic modified vermiculite was prepared by a simple one-pot solvothermal method to remove lead from aqueous solution.
Amplified sensitization of Er3+luminescence in silica by AuNquantum clusters upon annealing in a reducing atmosphere
Authors: Cesca Tiziana , Kalinic Boris , Maurizio Chiara , Michieli Niccolò , Scian Carlo , Mattei Giovanni
Published: October 2016

AuNquantum cluster sensitization of Er3+photoemission in silica is boosted by H passivation of Si dangling bonds around the clusters.
Microstructural characterization of biobased carbon foam by means of X-ray microtomography and compared to conventional techniques
Authors: Merle Juliette , Sénéchal Pascale , Guerton Fabrice , Moonen Peter , Trinsoutrot Pierre , Birot Marc , Charrier-El Bouhtoury Fatima
Published: October 2016

The objective of this work is to compare three techniques for characterizing the morphology of porous bio-based carbon foam, namely mercury intrusion porosimetry, scanning electron microscopy and X-ray microtomography.
Preparation and characterization of sodium polyacrylate-grafted bentonite and its performance removing Pb2+from aqueous solutions
Authors: Xue Ni , Wang Luyan , Pei Meishan , He Youjun , Du Yankai , Guo Wenjuan
Published: October 2016

A new adsorbent, sodium polyacrylate (PAANa) grafted onto the surface of bentonite (Bent), was successfully synthesized by a facile and green Ce(iv)-redox process, to remove Pb2+from aqueous solutions.
Co3O4/RGO/Co3O4 pseudocomposite grown in situ on a Co foil for high-performance supercapacitors
Authors: Wang Shengqi , Ju Peiwen , Zhu Zhaoqiang , Zhao Chongjun
Published: October 2016

A Co3O4/RGO/Co3O4 pseudocomposite was grown in situ on a Co substrate using a one-step hydrothermal process and exhibited excellent electrochemical performances.
Scaling of mixing time for droplets of different sizes traveling through a serpentine microchannel
Authors: Harshe Yogesh M. , van Eijk Michael J. , Kleijn Chris R. , Kreutzer Michiel T. , Boukany Pouyan E.
Published: October 2016

An investigation into the dependence of the mixing time on the size and velocity of micro-droplets moving through a serpentine channel.