bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reassessing ecdysteroidogenic cells from the cell membrane receptors’
perspective
Authors: Alexandratos Alexandros , Moulos Panagiotis , Nellas Ioannis , Mavridis Konstantinos , Dedos Skarlatos G.
Published: February 2016

Ecdysteroids secreted by the prothoracic gland (PG) cells of insects control the
developmental timing of their immature life stages. These cells have been
historically considered as carrying out a single function in insects, namely the
biochemical conversion of cholesterol to ecdysteroids and their secretion. A growing
body of evidence shows that PG cells receive multiple cues during insect development
so we tested the hypothesis that they carry out more than just one function in
insects. We characterised the molecular nature and developmental profiles of cell
membrane receptors in PG cells of Bombyx mori during the final larval stage
and determined what receptors decode nutritional, developmental and physiological
signals. Through iterative approaches we identified a complex repertoire of cell
membrane receptors that are expressed in intricate patterns and activate previously
unidentified signal transduction cascades in PG cells. The expression patterns of
some of these receptors explain precisely the mechanisms that are known to control
ecdysteroidogenesis. However, the presence of receptors for the notch, hedgehog and
wingless signalling pathways and the expression of innate immunity-related receptors
such as phagocytosis receptors, receptors for microbial ligands and Toll-like
receptors call for a re-evaluation of the role these cells play in insects.
Viral-mediated fusion of mesenchymal stem cells with cells of the infarcted heart hinders healing via decreased vascularization and immune modulation
Authors: Freeman Brian T. , Ogle Brenda M.
Published: February 2016

Cell fusion can occur between mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) transplanted to improve cardiac function and cells of the recipient. The therapeutic benefit or detriment of resultant cell hybrids is unknown. Here we augment fusion of transplanted MSCs with recipient cardiac cell types via viral fusogens to determine how cardiac function is impacted. Using a Cre/LoxP-based luciferase reporter system coupled to biophotonic imaging and echocardiography, we found that augmenting fusion with the vesicular stomatitis virus glycoprotein (VSVG) increased the amount of fusion in the recipient mouse heart, but led to diminished cardiac function. Specifically, MSCs transfected with VSVG (MSC-VSVG) had the lowest mean fold increase in fractional area change (FAC) and cardiac output (CO). Although the amount of fusion detected had a strong positive correlation (Pearson) with fractional area change and cardiac output at day 7, this effect was lost by day 28. The decrease in cardiac function seen with MSC-VSVG treatment versus MSC alone or sham treatment was associated with decreased MSC retention, altered immune cell responsiveness and reduced vascularization in the heart. This outcome garners consideration in the context of cellular transplantation to damaged tissues, those with viral infection or other microenvironmental conditions that might promote fusion.
Identification of a de novo DYNC1H1 mutation via WES according to published guidelines
Authors: Ding Dongxue , Chen Zhao , Li Kai , Long Zhe , Ye Wei , Tang Zhaoli , Xia Kun , Qiu Rong , Tang Beisha , Jiang Hong
Published: February 2016

De novo mutations that contribute to rare Mendelian diseases, including neurological disorders, have been recently identified. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) has become a powerful tool for the identification of inherited and de novo mutations in Mendelian diseases. Two important guidelines were recently published regarding the investigation of causality of sequence variant in human disease and the interpretation of novel variants identified in human genome sequences. In this study, a family with supposed movement disorders was sequenced via WES (including the proband and her unaffected parents) and a standard investigation and interpretation of the identified variants was performed according to the published guidelines. We identified a novel de novo mutation (c.2327C > T, p.P776L) in DYNC1H1 gene and confirmed that it was the causal variant. The phenotype of the affected twins included delayed motor milestones, pes cavus, lower limb weakness and atrophy and a waddling gait. Electromyographic (EMG) recordings revealed typical signs of chronic denervation. Our study demonstrates the power of WES to discover the de novo mutations associated with a neurological disease on the whole exome scale and guidelines to conduct WES studies and interpret of identified variants are a preferable option for the exploration of the pathogenesis of rare neurological disorders.
Androgen-related sperm storage in oviduct of Chinese Soft-Shelled Turtle in vivo during annual cycle
Authors: Liu Tengfei , Chu Xiaoya , Huang Yufei , Yang Ping , Li Quanfu , Hu Lisi , Chen Hong , Chen Qiusheng
Published: February 2016

Long-term sperm storage in the female genital tract is essential for the appropriate timing of reproductive events in animals with asynchronous copulation and ovulation. However, the mechanism underlying the prolonged storage of spermatozoa is largely unexplored in turtles. In the present study, the role of androgen in sperm storage was investigated in the oviduct of the Chinese soft-shelled turtle,Pelodiscus sinensis. Morphological analysis revealed that spermatozoa were observed in the vagina, uterus and isthmus of the oviduct throughout the hibernation season. The increase of circulating testosterone and dihydrotestosterone levels were consistent with the arrangement of spermatozoa that had their head embedded among the cilia of the oviduct mucosal epithelium. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that androgen receptor was distributed throughout the cytoplasm of gland cells and among the cilia of ciliated cells. Furthermore, marked variations in protein and mRNA levels of androgen receptor were validated through Western blot and qPCR analyses. The localization and the variation of androgen receptor demonstrated the crucial roles of androgens in sperm storage in the oviduct ofP. sinensis. These results provide fundamental insights into the interaction of androgen and sperm storage and facilitate the elucidation of the mechanism of sperm storage in turtles.
Efficient Terahertz detection in black-phosphorus nano-transistors with selective and controllable plasma-wave, bolometric and thermoelectric response
Authors: Viti Leonardo , Hu Jin , Coquillat Dominique , Politano Antonio , Knap Wojciech , Vitiello Miriam S.
Published: February 2016

The ability to convert light into an electrical signal with high efficiencies and controllable dynamics, is a major need in photonics and optoelectronics. In the Terahertz (THz) frequency range, with its exceptional application possibilities in high data rate wireless communications, security, night-vision, biomedical or video-imaging and gas sensing, detection technologies providing efficiency and sensitivity performances that can be “engineered” from scratch, remain elusive. Here, by exploiting the inherent electrical and thermal in-plane anisotropy of a flexible thin flake of black-phosphorus (BP), we devise plasma-wave, thermoelectric and bolometric nano-detectors with a selective, switchable and controllable operating mechanism. All devices operates at room-temperature and are integrated on-chip with planar nanoantennas, which provide remarkable efficiencies through light-harvesting in the strongly sub-wavelength device channel. The achieved selective detection (∼5–8 V/W responsivity) and sensitivity performances (signal-to-noise ratio of 500), are here exploited to demonstrate the first concrete application of a phosphorus-based active THz device, for pharmaceutical and quality control imaging of macroscopic samples, in real-time and in a realistic setting.
Norcantharidin Suppresses Colon Cancer Cell Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition by Inhibiting the αvβ6-ERK-Ets1 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Peng Cheng , Li Zequn , Niu Zhengchuan , Niu Wei , Xu Zongquan , Gao Huijie , Niu Weibo , Wang JiaYong , He Zhaobin , Gao Chao , Lin Pengfei , Agrez Michael , Zhang Zongli , Niu Jun
Published: February 2016

Norcantharidin (NCTD) is an efficacious anti-cancer drug that has been used in China for many years, but its underlying mechanism of action is still not fully understood. In the present study, we found that NCTD could induce morphological changes in colon cancer cells, causing a transition from a spindle-shaped morphology to a typical round or oval shape, which was indicative of a mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET) process. Next, we investigated the mechanism by which NCTD induced the MET process. Using a transwell assay, we found that NCTD could suppress the migratory and invasive ability of colon cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, NCTD suppressed the expression of integrin αvβ6, MMP-3 and MMP-9 as well as the polymerization of F-actin, further supporting its suppressive effect on migratory and invasive ability. Furthermore, the expression of αvβ6, N-cadherin, vimentin and phosphorylated ERK was decreased, while the expression of E-cadherin was up-regulated. We verified that phosphorylated Ets1 was down-regulated substantially after treatment with NCTD. Taken together, our data demonstrated that NCTD could inhibit the EMT process of colon cancer cells by inhibiting the αvβ6-ERK-Ets1 signaling pathway. This study revealed part of the mechanism through which NCTD could reverse the EMT process in colon cancer.
Cisplatin resistance in gastric cancer cells is associated with HER2 upregulation-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition
Authors: Huang Dongsheng , Duan Hongying , Huang Hao , Tong Xiangmin , Han Yong , Ru Guoqing , Qu Like , Shou Chengchao , Zhao Zhongsheng
Published: February 2016

Cisplatin remains to be primary chemotherapeutic drug for gastric cancer patients, especially for advanced stage ones. However, primary or acquired resistance often occurs with the mechanisms being not well understood, which results in relapse of the cancer and poor survival. Herein, we found that HER2 upregulation was associated with cisplatin resistance. We observed that cisplatin-resistant gastric cancer cells underwent a morphological change similar to epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) which is mediated by HER2 overexpression. When specific monoclonal antibody Herceptin, small molecular targeted drug CP724714, or small interfering RNA against HER2 was applied, the EMT-like phenotypic change was dramatically reversed. More importantly, the IC50 and Resistance Index of resistant gastric cancer cells to cisplatin were also decreased by any of these treatments.We demonstrated that expression and amplification of HER2 positively correlated with expression of EMT-related transcription factor Snail in gastric cancer tissues. Furthermore, for the first time, we found that HER2/Snail double positive gastric cancer patients had poorer survival than single positive or double negative counterparts, which provided experimental evidence for the necessity of HER2/Snail double testing in gastric cancer. In conclusion, this study provides some clues of the association of cisplatin resistance with HER2 upregulation-induced EMT in gastric cancer cells.
Novel Method for Neuronal Nanosurgical Connection
Authors: Katchinskiy Nir , Goez Helly R. , Dutta Indrani , Godbout Roseline , Elezzabi Abdulhakem Y.
Published: February 2016

Neuronal injury may cause an irreversible damage to cellular, organ and organism function. While preventing neural injury is ideal, it is not always possible. There are multiple etiologies for neuronal injury including trauma, infection, inflammation, immune mediated disorders, toxins and hereditary conditions. We describe a novel laser application, utilizing femtosecond laser pulses, in order to connect neuronal axon to neuronal soma. We were able to maintain cellular viability and demonstrate that this technique is universal as it is applicable to multiple cell types and media.
Transformation-optical Fan-beam Synthesis
Authors: Yang Rui , Kong Xianghui , Wang Hui , Su He , Lei Zhenya , Wang Jing , Zhang Aofang , Chen Lei
Published: February 2016

Gradient-index dielectric lenses are generated based on the coordinate transformation by compressing the homogeneous air spaces quasi-conformally towards and outwards the primary source. The three-dimensional modeling is then performed through revolving the prescribed transformational media 180 degrees around the focal point to reach the architecture of barrel-vaults. It is found that all these two- and three-dimensional transformation-optical designs are capable of producing fan-beams efficiently over a broad frequency range with their main lobes possessing the narrow beamwidth in one dimension and the wide beamwidth in the other, while having the great ability of the wide angular scanning. Finally, we propose to construct such four types of fan-beam lenses through multiple-layered dielectrics with non-uniformed perforations and experimentally demonstrate their excellent performances in the fan-beam synthesis.
Altered gp130 signalling ameliorates experimental colitis via myeloid cell-specific
STAT3 activation and myeloid-derived suppressor cells
Authors: Däbritz Jan , Judd Louise M. , Chalinor Heather V. , Menheniott Trevelyan R. , Giraud Andrew S.
Published: February 2016

STAT3 regulates the expansion of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) during
inflammation, infection and cancer. Hyperactivation of STAT3 in
gp130757F/F mice is associated with protection from experimental
colitis. This study determined mechanisms for this protection and compared this to
mice with myeloid-specific STAT3-deficiency (LysMcre/STAT3flox;
gp130757F/F LysMcre/STAT3flox). Acute and chronic
colitis was induced and colons were removed for histological, mRNA and protein
analysis. Cell populations from spleen, mesenteric lymph node and colon were
analyzed for different myeloid cell populations using flow cytometry. Functions of
MDSCs and LPS-stimulated peritoneal macrophages were further characterized by in
vitro and in vivo assays. Here we show that the resistance to
experimental colitis in gp130757F/F mice is via myeloid-cell specific
STAT3 activation, MDSC expansion and increased production of suppressive and
protective cytokines.
New ZrO2/Al2O3 Nanocomposite Fabricated from Hybrid Nanoparticles Prepared by CO2 Laser Co-Vaporization
Authors: Bartolomé José F. , Smirnov Anton , Kurland Heinz-Dieter , Grabow Janet , Müller Frank A.
Published: February 2016

Alumina toughened zirconia (ATZ) and zirconia toughened alumina (ZTA) are currently the materials of choice to meet the need for tough, strong, and bioinert ceramics for medical devices. However, the mechanical properties of ZrO2/Al2O3dispersion ceramics could be considerably increased by reducing the corresponding grain sizes and by improving the homogeneity of the phase dispersion. Here, we prepare nanoparticles with an intraparticular phase distribution of Zr(1−x)AlxO(2−x/2)and (γ-, δ-)Al2O3by the simultaneous gas phase condensation of laser co-vaporized zirconia and alumina raw powders. During subsequent spark plasma sintering the zirconia defect structures and transition alumina phases transform to a homogeneously distributed dispersion of tetragonal ZrO2(52.4 vol%) and α-Al2O3(47.6 vol%). Ceramics sintered by spark plasma sintering are completely dense with average grain sizes in the range around 250 nm. Outstanding mechanical properties (flexural strength σf = 1500 MPa, fracture toughnessKIc = 6.8 MPa m1/2) together with a high resistance against low temperature degradation make these materials promising candidates for next generation bioceramics in total hip replacements and for dental implants.
Non-monotonic changes in critical solidification rates for stability of liquid-solid interfaces with static magnetic fields
Authors: Ren W. L. , Fan Y. F. , Feng J. W. , Zhong Y. B. , Yu J. B. , Ren Z. M. , Liaw P. K.
Published: February 2016

We report the magnetic field dependence of the critical solidification rate for the stability of liquid-solid interfaces. For a certain temperature gradient, the critical solidification rate first increases, then decreases, and subsequently increases with increasing magnetic field. The effect of the magnetic field on the critical solidification rate is more pronounced at low than at high temperature gradients. The numerical simulations show that the magnetic-field dependent changes of convection velocity and contour at the interface agree with the experimental results. The convection velocity first increases, then decreases, and finally increases again with increasing the magnetic field intensity. The variation of the convection contour at the interface first decreases, then increases slightly, and finally increases remarkably with increasing the magnetic field intensity. Thermoelectromagnetic convection (TEMC) plays the role of micro-stirring the melt and is responsible for the increase of interface stability within the initially increasing range of magnetic field intensity. The weak and significant extents of the magneto-hydrodynamic damping (MHD)-dependent solute build-up at the interface front result, respectively, in the gradual decrease and increase of interfacial stability with increasing the magnetic field intensity. The variation of the liquid-side concentration at the liquid-solid interface with the magnetic field supports the proposed mechanism.
Breast Cancer MDA-MB-231 Cells Use Secreted Heat Shock Protein-90alpha (Hsp90α) to Survive a Hostile Hypoxic Environment
Authors: Dong Hangming , Zou Mengchen , Bhatia Ayesha , Jayaprakash Priyamvada , Hofman Florence , Ying Qilong , Chen Mei , Woodley David T. , Li Wei
Published: February 2016

Rapidly growing tumours in vivo often outgrow their surrounding available blood supply, subjecting themselves to a severely hypoxic microenvironment. Understanding how tumour cells adapt themselves to survive hypoxia may help to develop new treatments of the tumours. Given the limited blood perfusion to the enlarging tumour, whatever factor(s) that allows the tumour cells to survive likely comes from the tumour cells themselves or its associated stromal cells. In this report, we show that HIF-1α-overexpressing breast cancer cells, MDA-MB-231, secrete heat shock protein-90alpha (Hsp90α) and use it to survive under hypoxia. Depletion of Hsp90α secretion from the tumour cells was permissive to cytotoxicity by hypoxia, whereas supplementation of Hsp90α-knockout tumour cells with recombinant Hsp90α, but not Hsp90β, protein prevented hypoxia-induced cell death via an autocrine mechanism through the LDL receptor-related protein-1 (LRP1) receptor. Finally, direct inhibition of the secreted Hsp90α with monoclonal antibody, 1G6-D7, enhanced tumour cell death under hypoxia. Therefore, secreted Hsp90α is a novel survival factor for certain tumours under hypoxia.
Dietary n-3 Fatty Acid, α-Tocopherol, Zinc, vitamin D, vitamin C and β-carotene are Associated with Age-Related Macular Degeneration in Japan
Authors: Aoki Aya , Inoue Maiko , Nguyen Elizabeth , Obata Ryo , Kadonosono Kazuaki , Shinkai Shoji , Hashimoto Hideki , Sasaki Satoshi , Yanagi Yasuo
Published: February 2016

This case-control study reports the association between nutrient intake and neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in Japan. The nutrient intake of 161 neovascular AMD cases from two university hospitals and 369 population-based control subjects from a cohort study was assessed using a brief-type self-administered questionnaire on diet history, which required respondent recall of the usual intake of 58 foods during the preceding month. Energy-adjusted nutrient intake values were compared between the groups. Logistic regression analysis was used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% CIs adjusted for smoking history, age, sex, chronic disease history, supplement use and alcohol consumption. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that low intakes of n-3 fatty acid, α-tocopherol, zinc, vitamin D, vitamin C and β-carotene were associated with neovascular AMD (Trend P < 0.0001 for n-3 fatty acid, Trend P < 0.0001 for α-tocopherol, Trend P < 0.0001 for zinc, Trend P = 0.002 for vitamin D, Trend P = 0.04 for vitamin C, Trend P = 0.0004 for β-carotene). There was no association with retinol or cryptoxanthin intake and neovascular AMD (P = 0.67, 0.06).
Erratum: The pan-class I phosphatidyl-inositol-3 kinase inhibitor NVP-BKM120 demonstrates anti-leukemic activity in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Allegretti Matteo , Ricciardi Maria Rosaria , Licchetta Roberto , Mirabilii Simone , Orecchioni Stefania , Reggiani Francesca , Talarico Giovanna , Foà Roberto , Bertolini Francesco , Amadori Sergio , Torrisi Maria Rosaria , Tafuri Agostino
Published: February 2016

Scientific Reports 5: Article number: 18137; published online: 17 December 2015; updated: 05 February 2016 This Article contains errors in the Author Contributions Statement. “M.A. designed and performed the research, analyzed data and wrote the manuscript; M.R.R. designed the research, analyzed data and edited the manuscript; S.
Nanoparticles of gadolinium-incorporated Prussian blue with PEG coating as an effective oral MRI contrast agent for gastrointestinal tract imaging
Authors: Perera Vindya S. , Chen Guojun , Cai Qing , Huang Songping D.
Published: February 2016

Nanoparticles of gadolinium-incorporated Prussian blue show potential as a cellular T1-weighted oral MRI probe for imaging the gastrointestinal tract.
Advancements of molecularly imprinted polymers in the food safety field
Authors: Wang Peilong , Sun Xiaohua , Su Xiaoou , Wang Tie
Published: February 2016

Molecularly imprinted technology (MIT) has been widely employed to produce stable, robust and cheap molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) materials that possess selective binding sites for recognition of target analytes in food, such as pesticides, veterinary drugs, mycotoxins, illegal drugs and so on.
Chiral all-organic nitroxide biradical liquid crystals showing remarkably large positive magneto-LC effects
Authors: Suzuki Katsuaki , Takemoto Yusa , Takaoka Shohei , Taguchi Koji , Uchida Yoshiaki , Mazhukin Dmitrii G. , Grigor'ev Igor A. , Tamura Rui
Published: February 2016

The liquid crystalline chiral nitroxide biradical (S,S,S,S)-3synthesized has shown much larger ‘positive magneto-LC effects’ in the chiral nematic (N*) phase than the monoradical (S,S)-1.
In situ Raman spectroscopy of carbon-coated ZnFe2O4anode material in Li-ion batteries – investigation of SEI growth
Authors: Cabo-Fernandez Laura , Mueller Franziska , Passerini Stefano , Hardwick Laurence J.
Published: February 2016

Solid electrolyte interphase products are detected on carbon-coated ZnFe2O4by Raman due to temporary surface enhancement effect of zinc nanoparticles.
Addition of low concentrations of an ionic liquid to a base oil reduces friction over multiple length scales: a combined nano- and macrotribology investigation
Authors: Li Hua , Somers Anthony E. , Howlett Patrick C. , Rutland Mark W. , Forsyth Maria , Atkin Rob
Published: February 2016

The efficacy of ionic liquids (ILs) as lubricant additives to a model base oil has been probed at the nanoscale and macroscale as a function of IL concentration using the same materials.
Engineering the electronic and magnetic properties of d0 2D dichalcogenide materials through vacancy doping and lattice strains
Authors: Ao L. , Pham A. , Xiao H. Y. , Zu X. T. , Li S.
Published: February 2016

The effects of different vacancy defects in 2D d0 are investigated systematically using first principle methods.
Intramolecular structure and energetics in supercooled water down to 255 K
Authors: Lehmkühler Felix , Forov Yury , Büning Thomas , Sahle Christoph J. , Steinke Ingo , Julius Karin , Buslaps Thomas , Tolan Metin , Hakala Mikko , Sternemann Christian
Published: February 2016

In this article a study of the inter- and intramolecular structure and energetics of supercooled water by means of X-ray Raman scattering and X-ray Compton scattering is presented.
Effect of potential barrier height on the carrier transport in InGaAs/GaAsP multi-quantum wells and photoelectric properties of laser diode
Authors: Dong Hailiang , Sun Jing , Ma Shufang , Liang Jian , Lu Taiping , Jia Zhigang , Liu Xuguang , Xu Bingshe
Published: February 2016

The effect of the height of the potential barrier on the confined level of carrier transport was studied in InGaAs/GaAsP MQWs.
Ultrafast and nonlinear surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Gruenke Natalie L. , Cardinal M. Fernanda , McAnally Michael O. , Frontiera Renee R. , Schatz George C. , Van Duyne Richard P.
Published: February 2016

This review discusses the origins, latest advances, challenges, and future directions of the emerging field of ultrafast surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy.
CO2 activation and fixation: highly efficient syntheses of hydroxy carbamates over Au/Fe2O3
Authors: Shang Jianpeng , Guo Xiaoguang , Li Zuopeng , Deng Youquan
Published: February 2016

An effective route for the syntheses of hydroxyl carbamates from CO2, epoxides and amines over Au/Fe2O3 was developed. Such a process could fulfill the optimum utilization of CO2, which is of significance from the standpoint of green chemistry and sustainable development.
A device for co-culturing autonomic neurons and cardiomyocytes using micro-fabrication techniques
Authors: Oiwa Kosuke , Shimba Kenta , Numata Takashi , Takeuchi Akimasa , Kotani Kiyoshi , Jimbo Yasuhiko
Published: February 2016

We developed a device for co-culturing sympathetic neurons, parasympathetic neurons, and cardiomyocytes using micro-fabrication techniques.
Molybdenum isotopic analysis by negative thermal ionization mass spectrometry (N-TIMS): effects on oxygen isotopic composition
Authors: Nagai Yuichiro , Yokoyama Tetsuya
Published: February 2016

We developed a new, highly precise, and accurate Mo isotope analysis by thermal ionization mass spectrometry in negative ionization mode (N-TIMS) by determining the in situ O isotope composition for each measurement and using the data to correct for the O isotope interferences.
In silico based investigation of dynamic variations in neprilysin (NEP and NEP2) proteins for extracting the point of specificity
Authors: Ul-Haq Zaheer , Usmani Saman , Iqbal Sadaf , Zia Syeda Rehana
Published: February 2016

Theoretical identification of structural changes within two related proteins during dynamics was carried out in order to obtain information about points of specificity of NEP and NEP2 proteins.
Properties of methylene blue in the presence of zeolite nanoparticles
Authors: Awala Hussein , Leite Elsa , Saint-Marcel Loïc , Clet Guillaume , Retoux Richard , Naydenova Izabela , Mintova Svetlana
Published: February 2016

Properties of methylene blue modified by incorporation in the large pores of LTL and BEA type zeolites, and stabilization on the external surface of small pore LTA type zeolite.
PCl3-mediated synthesis of green/cyan fluorescent protein chromophores using amino acids
Authors: Singh Thokchom Prasanta , Shunmugam Raja
Published: February 2016

An efficient synthesis of green and cyan fluorescent protein chromophores froml-tyrosine andl-tryptophan using PCl3has been successfully developed.
A novel pyrimidine tetrad contributing to stabilize tetramolecular G-quadruplex structures
Authors: Esposito V. , Pepe A. , Filosa R. , Mayol L. , Virgilio A. , Galeone A.
Published: February 2016

5-Amino-2′-deoxyuridine forms an eight hydrogen-bonded tetrad stabilizing a parallel G-quadruplex structure more efficiently than tetrads formed by 5-bromo-2′-deoxyuridine and thymidine.
Functional characterization and expression study of sugarcane MYB transcription factor gene PEaMYBAS1 promoter from Erianthus arundinaceus that confers abiotic stress tolerance in tobacco
Authors: Kharte Sonali B. , Watharkar Anuprita D. , Shingote Prashant R. , Chandrashekharan Sharanya , Pagariya Madhuri C. , Kawar Prashant G. , Govindwar Sanjay P.
Published: February 2016

This work provides a thorough understanding about the function ofcis-acting elements regarding drought, salt, cold and wounding stress.
Efficient removal of cadmium using facile functionalized of mesoporous silica via a biomimetic coating
Authors: Chen Yan , Gao Junkai , Wen Xiaofei , Wu Wenfeng
Published: February 2016

A mesoporous material (DMOS), prepared by grafting polydopamine onto meso-structured silica (MOS), was developed as a sorbent to sequestrate Cd2+.
RNA-sequencing Oryza sativa transcriptome in response to herbicide isoprotruon and characterization of genes involved in IPU detoxification
Authors: Lu Yi Chen , Zhang Jing Jing , Luo Fang , Huang Meng Tian , Yang Hong
Published: February 2016

The comprehensive analysis of transcriptome and UPLC-MS/MS in rice was performed to explore the regulatory mechanism of mRNA level and chemical metabolism in response to herbicide isoproturon.
Studies into the Yb-doping effects on photoelectrochemical properties of WO3 photocatalysts
Authors: Liew Siao Li , Subramanian Gomathy Sandhya , Seng Chua Chin , Luo He-Kuan
Published: February 2016

Yb-doped WO3 photocatalysts are sub-stoichiometric WO3−x due to substitution of W6+ with Yb3+ cation, display shorter electron–hole recombination time and higher levels of donor densities, leading to higher and more stable photocurrent densities.
Chemical epitaxy and interfacial reactivity in solution deposited PbS on ZnTe
Authors: Sengupta Sucheta , Templeman Tzvi , Chen Chihyu , Moon Eunseong , Shandalov Michael , Ezersky Vladimir , Phillips Jamie , Golan Yuval
Published: February 2016

The present work aims at optimizing the conditions for growing PbS thin films on ZnTe using chemical bath deposition. Interfacial chemical reactivity is studied in detail and explained in light of ZnTe dissolution in the alkaline environment of the deposition bath.
Allostery in molecular self-assemblies: metal ions triggered self-assembly and emissions of terthiophene
Authors: Liu Shuai , Zhao Li , Xiao Yunlong , Huang Tian , Li Jie , Huang Jianbin , Yan Yun
Published: February 2016

Allostery in molecular self-assembly: binding of Ag+ to the head of a coordinating amphiphile TTC4L changes the emission color of the terthiophene group attached to the chain end via a conformation triggered self-assembly.
Improved chemical and mechanical stability of peptoid nanosheets by photo-crosslinking the hydrophobic core
Authors: Flood Dillon , Proulx Caroline , Robertson Ellen J. , Battigelli Alessia , Wang Shuo , Schwartzberg Adam M. , Zuckermann Ronald N.
Published: February 2016

Photo-crosslinking produced more robust nanosheets that can survive sonication, lyophilization, and other biochemical manipulations.
Non-stoichiometry of tris(8-hydroxyquinoline) aluminium: is it possible?
Authors: Avetissov I. Ch. , Akkuzina A. A. , Avetisov R. I. , Khomyakov A. V. , Saifutyarov R. R.
Published: February 2016

The dependence of the 8-hydroxyquinoline (8-Hq) vapour pressure on temperature, log P8-Hq [Torr] = 8.4249 − 2963.5/T, (386–482 K) was measured by Bourdon manometer technique. Tris(8-hydroxyquinoline) aluminum crystals were grown under controlled P8-Hq [0.1–11.3 Torr] and their cell parameters were measured.
Cooperative effects of different temperatures and pressures on the initial and subsequent decomposition reactions of the nitrogen-rich energetic crystal 3,3′-dinitroamino-4,4′-azoxyfurazan
Authors: Wu Qiong , Zhu Weihua , Xiao Heming
Published: February 2016

The initiation mechanisms of 3,3′-dinitroamino-4,4′-azoxyfurazan at different temperatures and pressures are bimolecular intermolecular hydrogen transfer and unimolecular N–NO2 bond breaking.
4-Component relativistic calculations of L3ionization and excitations for the isoelectronic species UO22+, OUN+and UN2
Authors: South Christopher , Shee Avijit , Mukherjee Debashis , Wilson Angela K. , Saue Trond
Published: February 2016

4-Component relativistic calculations explore uranium 2p3/2ionization and excitation in the isoelectronic series UO22+, OUN+and UN2.
Structural analysis of ruthenium–arene complexes using ion mobility mass spectrometry, collision-induced dissociation, and DFT
Authors: Czerwinska Izabella , Far Johann , Kune Christopher , Larriba-Andaluz Carlos , Delaude Lionel , De Pauw Edwin
Published: February 2016

Electrospray ionization of [RuCl2(p-cymeme)(PTA)] afforded a mixture of two molecular ions resulting from an in source oxidation of RuII into RuIII or from protonation of the 1,3,5-triaza-7-phosphaadamantane (PTA) ligand.
A simple approach for an optically transparent nanochannel device prototype
Authors: Liang Fupeng , Ju An , Qiao Yi , Guo Jing , Feng Haiqing , Li Junji , Lu Na , Tu Jing , Lu Zuhong
Published: February 2016

We developed a new method to fabricate a completely transparent nanochannel device prototype with a structure of substrate glass/cured epoxy resin/cover glass.
Recent progress in imidoyl radical-involved reactions
Authors: Lei Jian , Huang Jinbo , Zhu Qiang
Published: February 2016

This review discusses the recent progress in imidoyl radical-involved reactions including the synthesis of functionalized heterocycles, nitriles, imines, amines,etc.
Hollow silver alginate microspheres for drug delivery and surface enhanced Raman scattering detection
Authors: Lengert Ekaterina , Yashchenok Alexey M. , Atkin Vsevolod , Lapanje Ales , Gorin Dmitry A. , Sukhorukov Gleb B. , Parakhonskiy Bogdan V.
Published: February 2016

Multifunctional silver alginate hydrogel microspheres are assembled via a template assisted approach using calcium carbonate cores.
Cobalt phosphide-based electrocatalysts: synthesis and phase catalytic activity comparison for hydrogen evolution
Authors: Pan Yuan , Lin Yan , Chen Yinjuan , Liu Yunqi , Liu Chenguang
Published: February 2016

The HER catalytic efficiency of cobalt phosphide-based catalysts can be enhanced significantly by adjusting crystalline phase and carbon species structures.
Characterisation of nanoscale carbide precipitation in as-cast Co–Cr–W-based dental alloys
Authors: Yamanaka Kenta , Mori Manami , Sato Kazuhisa , Chiba Akihiko
Published: February 2016

The results of the present study indicate the importance of local chemistry along with carbide precipitation in the optimization of alloy design for achieving desirable properties such as high strength, ductility, and corrosion resistance in dental Co–Cr-based cast alloys.
Correction: Shine bright or live long: substituent effects in [Cu(N^N)(P^P)]+-based light-emitting electrochemical cells where N^N is a 6-substituted 2,2′-bipyridine
Authors: Keller Sarah , Pertegás Antonio , Longo Giulia , Martínez Laura , Cerdá Jesús , Junquera-Hernández José M. , Prescimone Alessandro , Constable Edwin C. , Housecroft Catherine E. , Ortí Enrique , Bolink Henk J.
Published: February 2016

Correction for ‘Shine bright or live long: substituent effects in [Cu(N^N)(P^P)]+-based light-emitting electrochemical cells where N^N is a 6-substituted 2,2′-bipyridine’ by Sarah Keller et al., J. Mater. Chem. C, 2016, DOI: 10.1039/c5tc03725e.
Discovery of a novel inhibitor of kinesin-like protein KIFC1
Authors: Zhang Wei , Zhai Ling , Wang Yimin , Boohaker Rebecca J. , Lu Wenyan , Gupta Vandana V. , Padmalayam Indira , Bostwick Robert J. , White E. Lucile , Ross Larry J. , Maddry Joseph , Ananthan Subramaniam , Augelli-Szafran Corinne E. , Suto Mark J. , Xu Bo , Li Rongbao , Li Yonghe
Published: February 2016

Historically, drugs used in the treatment of cancers also tend to cause damage to healthy cells while affecting cancer cells. Therefore, the identification of novel agents that act specifically against cancer cells remains a high priority in the search for new therapies. In contrast with normal cells, most cancer cells contain multiple centrosomes which are associated with genome instability and tumorigenesis. Cancer cells can avoid multipolar mitosis, which can cause cell death, by clustering the extra centrosomes into two spindle poles, thereby enabling bipolar division. Kinesin-like protein KIFC1 plays a critical role in centrosome clustering in cancer cells, but is not essential for normal cells. Therefore, targeting KIFC1 may provide novel insight into selective killing of cancer cells. In the present study, we identified a small-molecule KIFC1 inhibitor, SR31527, which inhibited microtubule (MT)-stimulated KIFC1 ATPase activity with an IC50 value of 6.6 μM. By using bio layer interferometry technology, we further demonstrated that SR31527 bound directly to KIFC1 with high affinity (Kd=25.4 nM). Our results from computational modelling and saturation-transfer difference (STD)-NMR experiments suggest that SR31527 bound to a novel allosteric site of KIFC1 that appears suitable for developing selective inhibitors of KIFC1. Importantly, SR31527 prevented bipolar clustering of extra centrosomes in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells and significantly reduced TNBC cell colony formation and viability, but was less toxic to normal fibroblasts. Therefore, SR31527 provides a valuable tool for studying the biological function of KIFC1 and serves as a potential lead for the development of novel therapeutic agents for breast cancer treatment.
Simple approach to induce solid‐state oriented growth of MoO3 microrods
Authors: Sun Aokui , Wang Dezhi , Duan Bohua , Wu Zhuangzhi
Published: February 2016

A novel and simple approach to induce solid‐state oriented growth of molybdenum trioxide (MoO3) microparticles was explored, including the ball milling and thermal annealing processes. The obtained samples were characterised by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and ultraviolet–visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. It was found that the as‐prepared samples were one‐dimensional MoO3 microrods with high aspect ratios growing along the [001] orientation. In addition, as‐prepared samples show better optical property. Moreover, a possible formation mechanism was also proposed, in which the surface diffusion played an important role in the inducing and growth processes.
Effect of Lipoic Acid on Serum Paraoxonase-1 and Paraoxonase-3 Protein Levels and Activities in Diabetic Rats
Authors: Ozgun E. , Ozgun G. S. , Gokmen S. S. , Eskıocak S. , Sut N. , Akıncı M. , Goncu E. , Cakır E.
Published: February 2016

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of streptozotocin-induced diabetes mellitus and lipoic acid treatment on serum paraoxonase-1 and paraoxonase-3 protein levels and paraoxonase, arylesterase and lactonase activities.

36 rats were equally and randomly divided into 4 groups as control, lipoic acid, diabetes and diabetes+lipoic acid. To induce diabetes, a single dose of streptozotocin (40 mg/kg) was injected intraperitoneally to diabetes and diabetes+lipoic acid groups. Lipoic acid (10 mg/kg/day) was injected intraperitoneally for 14 days to lipoic acid and diabetes+lipoic acid groups. Serum PON1 and PON3 protein levels were measured by western blotting. Serum paraoxonase, arylesterase and lactonase activities were determined by the measuring initial rate of substrate (paraoxon, phenylacetate and dihydrocoumarin) hydrolysis.

Streptozotocin-induced diabetes mellitus caused a significant decrease whereas lipoic acid treatment caused a significant increase in serum PON1 and PON3 protein levels and paraoxonase, arylesterase and lactonase activities. The increase percent of serum PON3 protein was higher than that of serum PON1 protein and the increase percent of serum lactonase activity was higher than that of serum paraoxonase and arylesterase activities in diabetes+lipoic acid group.

We can report that, like PON1 protein, PON3 protein and actually its lactonase activity may also have a role as an antioxidant in diabetes mellitus and lipoic acid treatment may be useful for the prevention of the atherosclerotic complications of diabetes by increasing serum PON1 and PON3 protein levels and serum enzyme activities.
Low-order representations of the canonical wind turbine array boundary layer via double proper orthogonal decomposition
Authors: Hamilton Nicholas , Tutkun Murat , Cal Raúl Bayoán
Published: February 2016

Wind turbine wakes are investigated in order to characterize the development of energetic turbulence structures. Experimental data from stereo particle image velocimetry render the full Reynolds stress tensor accessible in planes parallel to the swept area of the scale model turbine rotor. Proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) is applied to decompose and analyze structures in the wake. The modes resulting from the decomposition demonstrate that structures grow and develop along the streamwise direction. A second iteration of the snapshot POD, otherwise called double proper orthogonal decomposition (DPOD), is applied to modes of common rank from the span of measurement locations yielding an ordered set of projections. The DPOD describes the sub-modal organization in terms of largest common projection and a series of correction modes with coefficients that are functions of the streamwise coordinate. Sub-structures of POD modes that persist through the wake have a dominant projection that accounts for the character of individual POD modes. Distribution of eigenvalues associated with DPOD modes indicates that near-wake turbulence behavior is superimposed on overall wake structure. High order POD modes do not reveal any common projections in the measurement sets of the wake and associated eigenvalues are nearly equal. The eigenvalues from the DPOD indicate that the structure of the wind turbine wake can be described with a small subset of the original mode basis. The truncated basis of sub-modal structures represents a total reduction to 0.015% of the degrees of freedom of the wind turbine wake. Low-order representations of the Reynolds stress tensor are made for the wake using the most dominant DPOD modes. The stress tensor is corrected to account for energy excluded from the truncated basis. A tensor of constant coefficients is defined to rescale the low-order representation of the stresses to match the original statistics. That a constant correction for each term in the Reynolds stress tensor is sufficient to correct the wake suggests that high order modes account for a nearly constant, isotropic turbulence kinetic energy. The following method reconstructs diagonal elements of the stress tensor to a root-mean-square error within 15% and shear terms to within 3%.
Energies of the X- and L-valleys in In0.53Ga0.47As from electronic structure calculations
Authors: Greene-Diniz Gabriel , Fischetti M. V. , Greer J. C.
Published: February 2016

Several theoretical electronic structure methods are applied to study the relative energies of the minima of the X- and L-conduction-band satellite valleys of InxGa1−xAs with x = 0.53. This III-V semiconductor is a contender as a replacement for silicon in high-performance n-type metal-oxide-semiconductor transistors. The energy of the low-lying valleys relative to the conduction-band edge governs the population of channel carriers as the transistor is brought into inversion, hence determining current drive and switching properties at gate voltages above threshold. The calculations indicate that the position of the L- and X-valley minima are ∼1 eV and ∼1.2 eV, respectively, higher in energy with respect to the conduction-band minimum at the Γ-point.
A tomographic particle image velocimetry investigation of the flow development over dual step cylinders
Authors: Morton C. , Yarusevych S. , Scarano F.
Published: February 2016

This experimental study focuses on the near wake development of a dual step cylinder geometry consisting of a long base cylinder of diameter d to which a larger diameter (D) cylinder of length L is attached coaxially at mid-span. The experiments cover a range of Reynolds numbers, 2000 ≤ ReD ≤ 5000, diameter ratios, 1.33 ≤ D/d ≤ 2.0 and large cylinder aspect ratios, 0.5 ≤ L/D ≤ 5 using Tomographic particle image velocimetry. Distinct changes in wake topology are observed varying the above parameters. Supporting previous experimental studies on the same geometry involving flow visualization and planar measurements, four distinct flow regimes are identified to which a distinct three-dimensional wake topology can be associated. The vortex-dominated wake dynamical behaviour is investigated with Proper Orthogonal Decomposition (POD) and conditional averaging of three-dimensional velocity fields is used to exemplify the different shedding regimes. The conditionally averaged flow fields are shown to quantitatively resolve flow features equivalent to those obtained from a reduced order model consisting of the first ten to twenty POD modes, identifying the dominant vortex shedding cells and their interactions.
Energy decay of solutions for a variable-coefficient viscoelastic wave equation with a weak nonlinear dissipation
Authors: Cao Xiaomin
Published: February 2016

In this paper, we study decay properties of the solutions for a variable-coefficient viscoelastic wave equation with a weak nonlinear dissipative term. The method we used are piecewise multiplier methods and geometric analysis.
Wake instability of viscoelastic flows past an unconfined inclined square cylinder
Authors: Norouzi Mahmood , Varedi Seyed Rasoul , Zamani Mahdi
Published: February 2016

A numerical study is presented to elucidate the characteristics of laminar viscoelastic shedding flow behind inclined square cylinders. The Giesekus model is used as the constitutive equation and governing equations were solved using a parallelized finite volume method. The CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) code was validated by comparing its results with published numerical and experimental data. The effects of angle of incidence, Reynolds number, Weissenberg number, polymer concentration, elasticity number, and also mobility factor are considered. Global quantities such as lift coefficient, Strouhal number, and the detailed kinetic variables like streamlines, shear stresses, and normal stress differences have been obtained in order to investigate the flow pattern of viscoelastic shedding flow. The Reynolds number is increased from Re = 60 to 120 for different angles of incidence. The computational results indicate that the flow is destabilized by increasing the Reynolds number or by increasing Weissenberg number. The computed results also indicate that the amplitude of the lift coefficient and shedding frequency are increased more strongly at higher polymer concentrations.
Energy landscapes and persistent minima
Authors: Carr Joanne M. , Mazauric Dorian , Cazals Frédéric , Wales David J.
Published: February 2016

We consider a coarse-graining of high-dimensional potential energy landscapes based upon persistences, which correspond to lowest barrier heights to lower-energy minima. Persistences can be calculated efficiently for local minima in kinetic transition networks that are based on stationary points of the prevailing energy landscape. The networks studied here represent peptides, proteins, nucleic acids, an atomic cluster, and a glassy system. Minima with high persistence values are likely to represent some form of alternative structural morphology, which, if appreciably populated at the prevailing temperature, could compete with the global minimum (defined as infinitely persistent). Threshold values on persistences (and in some cases equilibrium occupation probabilities) have therefore been used in this work to select subsets of minima, which were then analysed to see how well they can represent features of the full network. Simplified disconnectivity graphs showing only the selected minima can convey the funnelling (including any multiple-funnel) characteristics of the corresponding full graphs. The effect of the choice of persistence threshold on the reduced disconnectivity graphs was considered for a system with a hierarchical, glassy landscape. Sets of persistent minima were also found to be useful in comparing networks for the same system sampled under different conditions, using minimum oriented spanning forests.