bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feeding ofScorpaena porcus(Scorpaenidae) in intertidal rock pools in the Gulf of Cadiz (NE Atlantic)
Authors: Compaire Jesus C. , Casademont Pau , Cabrera Remedios , Gómez-Cama Carmen , Soriguer Milagrosa C.
Published: February 2017

The present work on the feeding ecology ofScorpaena porcusaccording to season, sex and size, is the first study carried out in the rocky intertidal in the NE Atlantic. Previous studies were carried out with fish collected in fishing grounds from Mediterranean areas. A total of 106 fish were caught in monthly samplings from April 2008 to July 2010 in three areas of the rocky intertidal zone in the Gulf of Cadiz. The diet composition varied with season, size and sex. Shrimps were the main diet resource during all year, but other prey were also important depending on the season. As the size of fish increased, predation on smaller crustaceans decreased and consumption of larger crustaceans and fish augmented. Females and males based their diet on shrimps, while indeterminate fish fed largely on amphipods. No significant differences were found between feeding intensity and season, size and sex. Nevertheless, the PERMANOVA results showed that the number of prey is affected by the interaction between sex and size class. Our results highlight thatS. porcusis a stenophagic species that shows a gradual segregation in the use of resources as it grows, which indicates there is no intraspecific competition in the rocky intertidal.
Serological Evidence ofLyssavirusInfection among Bats in Nagaland, a North-Eastern State in India
Authors: MANI R. S. , DOVIH D. P. , ASHWINI M. A. , CHATTOPADHYAY B. , HARSHA P. K. , GARG K. M. , SUDARSHAN S. , PUTTASWAMAIAH R. , RAMAKRISHNAN U. , MADHUSUDANA S. N.
Published: February 2017

Bats are known to be reservoirs of several medically important viruses including lyssaviruses. However, no systematic surveillance for bat rabies has been carried out in India, a canine rabies endemic country with a high burden of human rabies. Surveillance for rabies virus (RABV) infection in bats was therefore carried out in Nagaland, a north-eastern state in India at sites with intense human–bat interfaces during traditional bat harvests. Brain tissues and sera from bats were tested for evidence of infection due to RABV. Brain tissues were subjected to the fluorescent antibody test for detection of viral antigen and real-time reverse transcriptase PCR for presence of viral RNA. Bat sera were tested for the presence of rabies neutralizing antibodies by the rapid fluorescent focus inhibition test. None of the bat brains tested (n= 164) were positive for viral antigen or viral RNA. However, rabies neutralizing antibodies were detected in 4/78 (5·1%) bat sera tested, suggesting prior exposure to RABV or related lyssaviruses. The serological evidence of lyssaviral infection in Indian bats may have important implications in disease transmission and rabies control measures, and warrant extensive bat surveillance to better define the prevalence of lyssaviral infection in bats.
Characterization of Sulfur and Nanostructured Sulfur Battery Cathodes in Electron Microscopy Without Sublimation Artifacts
Authors: Levin Barnaby D.A. , Zachman Michael J. , Werner Jörg G. , Sahore Ritu , Nguyen Kayla X. , Han Yimo , Xie Baoquan , Ma Lin , Archer Lynden A. , Giannelis Emmanuel P. , Wiesner Ulrich , Kourkoutis Lena F. , Muller David A.
Published: February 2017

Lithium sulfur (Li–S) batteries have the potential to provide higher energy storage density at lower cost than conventional lithium ion batteries. A key challenge for Li–S batteries is the loss of sulfur to the electrolyte during cycling. This loss can be mitigated by sequestering the sulfur in nanostructured carbon–sulfur composites. The nanoscale characterization of the sulfur distribution within these complex nanostructured electrodes is normally performed by electron microscopy, but sulfur sublimates and redistributes in the high-vacuum conditions of conventional electron microscopes. The resulting sublimation artifacts render characterization of sulfur in conventional electron microscopes problematic and unreliable. Here, we demonstrate two techniques, cryogenic transmission electron microscopy (cryo-TEM) and scanning electron microscopy in air (airSEM), that enable the reliable characterization of sulfur across multiple length scales by suppressing sulfur sublimation. We use cryo-TEM and airSEM to examine carbon–sulfur composites synthesized for use as Li–S battery cathodes, noting several cases where the commonly employed sulfur melt infusion method is highly inefficient at infiltrating sulfur into porous carbon hosts.
Opposite effects of HDAC5 and p300 on MRTF-A-related neuronal apoptosis during ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats
Authors: Li Na , Yuan Qiong , Cao Xiao-Lu , Zhang Ying , Min Zhen-Li , Xu Shi-Qiang , Yu Zhi-Jun , Cheng Jing , Zhang Chunxiang , Hu Xia-Min
Published: February 2017

Our recent study has revealed that the myocardin-related transcription factor-A (MRTF-A) is involved in the apoptosis of cortical neurons induced by ischemia/reperfusion (I/R). Histone deacetylase 5 (HDAC5) and histone acetyltransferase p300 (P300) are two well-known regulators for transcription factors; however, their roles in MRTF-A-related effect on neuronal injuries during I/R are still unclear. In this study, in a model rat cerebral I/R injury via middle cerebral artery occlusion and reperfusion, we found that the expression and activity of HDAC5 was upregulated, whereas p300 and MRTF-A were downregulated both in expression and activity during I/R. Their expression changes and the interaction of the MRTF-A with HDAC5 or p300 were further verified by double immunofluorescence and co-immunoprecipitation. In cultured neuronal apoptosis model induced by H2O2, MRTF-A exhibited an anti-apoptotic effect by enhancing the transcription of Bcl-2 and Mcl-1 via CArG box binding. MRTF-A-induced anti-apoptotic effect was effectively inhibited by HDAC5, but was significantly enhanced by p300. The results suggest that both HDAC5 and p300 are involved in MRTF-A-mediated effect on neuronal apoptosis during ischemia/reperfusion injury, but with opposite effects.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: RIPK3 interactions with MLKL and CaMKII mediate oligodendrocytes death in the developing brain
Authors: Qu Yi , Tang Jun , Wang Huiqing , Li Shiping , Zhao Fengyan , Zhang Li , Richard Lu Q , Mu Dezhi
Published: February 2017

Oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) death is a key contributor to cerebral white matter injury (WMI) in the developing brain. A previous study by our group indicated that receptor-interacting proteins (RIPs) are crucial in mediating necroptosis in developing neurons. However, whether this mechanism is involved in OPCs death is unclear. We aimed to explore the mechanisms of RIP-mediated oligodendrocytes (OLs) death in the developing brain. Oligodendrocytes necroptosis was induced by oxygen-glucose deprivation plus caspase inhibitor zVAD treatment (OGD/zVAD) in vitro. Western blotting and immunofluorescence were used to detect RIPK1, RIPK3, mixed lineage kinase domain-like protein (MLKL), and Ca2+ and calmodulin-dependent protein kinase IIδ (CaMKIIδ). Immunoprecipitation was used to assess the interactions between RIPK3 and RIPK1, MLKL, and CaMKIIδ. Necrostatin-1 was used to disturb the RIPK3–RIPK1 interaction, and siRNA was used to inhibit RIPK3 or MLKL expression. Oligodendrocytes death was examined using PI staining, EM, and cell membrane leakage assays. In vivo, brain damage in neonatal rats was induced by hypoxia–ischemia (HI). This was followed by an examination of myelin development. We found that OGD/zVAD treatment upregulates the expression of RIPK3 and the interaction of RIPK3 with RIPK1, MLKL, and CaMKIIδ. Inhibition of the RIPK3-MLKL or RIPK3-CaMKIIδ interaction attenuates OLs death induced by OGD/zVAD. These protective mechanisms involve the translocation of MLKL to the OLs membrane, and the phosphorylation of CaMKIIδ. However, inhibition of the RIPK3–RIPK1 interaction did not protect OLs death induced by OGD/zVAD. In vivo studies indicated that the disrupted development of myelin was attenuated after the inhibition of RIPK3-MLKL or RIPK3-CaMKIIδ interaction. Taken together, our data indicate that RIPK3 is a key factor in protection against OLs death and abnormal myelin development via its interaction with MLKL and CaMKIIδ after HI. This suggests that RIPK3 may be a potential target for the treatment of WMI in neonates.
Correction: Corrigendum: Optical coherence tomography angiography microvascular findings in macular edema due to central and branch retinal vein occlusions
Authors: Mastropasqua Rodolfo , Toto Lisa , Di Antonio Luca , Borrelli Enrico , Senatore Alfonso , Di Nicola Marta , Di Martino Giuseppe , Ciancaglini Marco , Carpineto Paolo
Published: February 2017

Scientific Reports 7: Article number: 40763; published online: 18 January 2017; updated: 23 February 2017 The original version of this Article contained errors in the spelling of authors Rodolfo Mastropasqua, Lisa Toto, Luca Di Antonio, Enrico Borrelli, Alfonso Senatore, Marta Di Nicola, Giuseppe DiMartino and Marco Ciancaglini, which were incorrectly given as Mastropasqua Rodolfo, Toto Lisa, Di Antonio Luca, Borrelli Enrico, Senatore Alfonso, Di Nicola Marta, Di Martino Giuseppe, Ciancaglini Marco respectively.
Parasitised caterpillars suffer reduced predation: potential implications for intra-guild predation
Authors: Chen Wen-bin , Vasseur Liette , You Min-sheng , Li Jian-yu , Wang Cheng-xiang , Meng Ruo-xue , Gurr Geoff M.
Published: February 2017

Intra-guild predation (IGP) is an important phenomenon structuring ecological communities and affects the success of biological control. Here we show that parasitism by the koinobiont waspCotesia vestalisis associated with behavioural changes in its larval host (diamondback moth,Plutella xylostella) that reduce risk of IGP. Compared with unparasitised caterpillars, parasitisedP. xylostellamoved less frequently to new feeding patches on plants and were less likely to fall from the plant. Wolf spiders killed significantly fewer parasitised larvae. Reflecting their reduced movement and capacity to select plant tissue of optimal quality, parasitised caterpillars fed at a lower rate and exhibited delayed development suggesting a trade-off between IGP avoidance and nutrient intake by the host. This change in behaviour to reduce risk may cascade to the first trophic level and help explain the stability of IGP systems.
A universal indicator of critical state transitions in noisy complex networked systems
Authors: Liang Junhao , Hu Yanqing , Chen Guanrong , Zhou Tianshou
Published: February 2017

Critical transition, a phenomenon that a system shifts suddenly from one state to another, occurs in many real-world complex networks. We propose an analytical framework for exactly predicting the critical transition in a complex networked system subjected to noise effects. Our prediction is based on the characteristic return time of a simple one-dimensional system derived from the original higher-dimensional system. This characteristic time, which can be easily calculated using network data, allows us to systematically separate the respective roles of dynamics, noise and topology of the underlying networked system. We find that the noise can either prevent or enhance critical transitions, playing a key role in compensating the network structural defect which suffers from either internal failures or environmental changes, or both. Our analysis of realistic or artificial examples reveals that the characteristic return time is an effective indicator for forecasting the sudden deterioration of complex networks.
Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor is subjected to glucose modification and oxidation in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Kassaar Omar , Pereira Morais Marta , Xu Suying , Adam Emily L. , Chamberlain Rosemary C. , Jenkins Bryony , James Tony D. , Francis Paul T. , Ward Stephen , Williams Robert J. , van den Elsen Jean
Published: February 2017

Glucose and glucose metabolites are able to adversely modify proteins through a non-enzymatic reaction called glycation, which is associated with the pathology of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) and is a characteristic of the hyperglycaemia induced by diabetes. However, the precise protein glycation profile that characterises AD is poorly defined and the molecular link between hyperglycaemia and AD is unknown. In this study, we define an early glycation profile of human brain using fluorescent phenylboronate gel electrophoresis and identify early glycation and oxidation of macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) in AD brain. This modification inhibits MIF enzyme activity and ability to stimulate glial cells. MIF is involved in immune response and insulin regulation, hyperglycaemia, oxidative stress and glycation are all implicated in AD. Our study indicates that glucose modified and oxidised MIF could be a molecular link between hyperglycaemia and the dysregulation of the innate immune system in AD.
Water-Insoluble Photosensitizer Nanocolloids Stabilized by Supramolecular Interfacial Assembly towards Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Liu Yamei , Ma Kai , Jiao Tifeng , Xing Ruirui , Shen Guizhi , Yan Xuehai
Published: February 2017

Nanoengineering of hydrophobic photosensitizers (PSs) is a promising approach for improved tumor delivery and enhanced photodynamic therapy (PDT) efficiency. A variety of delivery carriers have been developed for tumor delivery of PSs through the enhanced permeation and retention (EPR) effect. However, a high-performance PS delivery system with minimum use of carrier materials with excellent biocompatibility is highly appreciated. In this work, we utilized the spatiotemporal interfacial adhesion and assembly of supramolecular coordination to achieve the nanoengineering of water-insoluble photosensitizer Chlorin e6 (Ce6). The hydrophobic Ce6 nanoparticles are well stabilized in a aqueous medium by the interfacially-assembled film due to the coordination polymerization of tannic acid (TA) and ferric iron (Fe(III)). The resulting Ce6@TA-Fe(III) complex nanoparticles (referenced as Ce6@TA-Fe(III) NPs) significantly improves the drug loading content (~65%) and have an average size of 60 nm. The Ce6@TA-Fe(III) NPs are almost non-emissive as the aggregated states, but they can light up after intracellular internalization, which thus realizes low dark toxicity and excellent phototoxicity under laser irradiation. The Ce6@TA-Fe(III) NPs prolong blood circulation, promote tumor-selective accumulation of PSs, and enhanced antitumor efficacy in comparison to the free-carrier Ce6 in vivo evaluation.
Highly potent antimicrobial peptides from N-terminal membrane-binding region of E. coli MreB
Authors: Saikia Karabi , Sravani Yalavarthi Durga , Ramakrishnan Vibin , Chaudhary Nitin
Published: February 2017

Microbial pathogenesis is a serious health concern. The threat escalates as the existing conventional antimicrobials are losing their efficacy against the evolving pathogens. Peptides hold promise to be developed into next-generation antibiotics. Antimicrobial peptides adopt amphipathic structures that could selectively bind to and disrupt the microbial membranes. Interaction of proteins with membranes is central to all living systems and we reasoned that the membrane-binding domains in microbial proteins could be developed into efficient antimicrobials. This is an interesting approach as self-like sequences could elude the microbial strategies of degrading the antimicrobial peptides, one of the mechanisms of showing resistance to antimicrobials. We selected the 9-residue-long membrane-binding region of E. coli MreB protein. The 9-residue peptide (C-terminal amide) and its N-terminal acetylated analog displayed broad-spectrum activity, killing Gram-negative bacteria, Gram-positive bacteria, and fungi. Extension with a tryptophan residue at the N-terminus drastically improved the activity of the peptides with lethal concentrations ≤10 μM against all the organisms tested. The tryptophan-extended peptides caused complete killing of C. albicans as well as gentamicin and methicillin resistant S. aureus at 5 μM concentration. Lipid-binding studies and electron microscopic analyses of the peptide-treated microbes suggest membrane disruption as the mechanism of killing.
Phylogenetic Characterizations of Highly Mutated EV-B106 Recombinants Showing Extensive Genetic Exchanges with Other EV-B in Xinjiang, China
Authors: Song Yang , Zhang Yong , Fan Qin , Cui Hui , Yan Dongmei , Zhu Shuangli , Tang Haishu , Sun Qiang , Wang Dongyan , Xu Wenbo
Published: February 2017

Human enterovirus B106 (EV-B106) is a new member of the enterovirus B species. To date, only three nucleotide sequences of EV-B106 have been published, and only one full-length genome sequence (the Yunnan strain 148/YN/CHN/12) is available in the GenBank database. In this study, we conducted phylogenetic characterisation of four EV-B106 strains isolated in Xinjiang, China. Pairwise comparisons of the nucleotide sequences and the deduced amino acid sequences revealed that the four Xinjiang EV-B106 strains had only 80.5–80.8% nucleotide identity and 95.4–97.3% amino acid identity with the Yunnan EV-B106 strain, indicating high mutagenicity. Similarity plots and bootscanning analyses revealed that frequent intertypic recombination occurred in all four Xinjiang EV-B106 strains in the non-structural region. These four strains may share a donor sequence with the EV-B85 strain, which circulated in Xinjiang in 2011, indicating extensive genetic exchanges between these strains. All Xinjiang EV-B106 strains were temperature-sensitive. An antibody seroprevalence study against EV-B106 in two Xinjiang prefectures also showed low titres of neutralizing antibodies, suggesting limited exposure and transmission in the population. This study contributes the whole genome sequences of EV-B106 to the GenBank database and provides valuable information regarding the molecular epidemiology of EV-B106 in China.
Large-area growth of multi-layer hexagonal boron nitride on polished cobalt foils by plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy
Authors: Xu Zhongguang , Tian Hao , Khanaki Alireza , Zheng Renjing , Suja Mohammad , Liu Jianlin
Published: February 2017

Two-dimensional (2D) hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN), which has a similar honeycomb lattice structure to graphene, is promising as a dielectric material for a wide variety of potential applications based on 2D materials. Synthesis of high-quality, large-size and single-crystalline h-BN domains is of vital importance for fundamental research as well as practical applications. In this work, we report the growth of h-BN films on mechanically polished cobalt (Co) foils using plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy. Under appropriate growth conditions, the coverage of h-BN layers can be readily controlled by growth time. A large-area, multi-layer h-BN film with a thickness of 5~6 nm is confirmed by Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy. In addition, the size of h-BN single domains is 20~100 μm. Dielectric property of as-grown h-BN film is evaluated by characterization of Co(foil)/h-BN/Co(contact) capacitor devices. Breakdown electric field is in the range of 3.0~3.3 MV/cm, which indicates that the epitaxial h-BN film has good insulating characteristics. In addition, the effect of substrate morphology on h-BN growth is discussed regarding different domain density, lateral size, and thickness of the h-BN films grown on unpolished and polished Co foils.
Life strategy and grazing intensity responses of Brachionus calyciflorus fed on different concentrations of microcystin-producing and microcystin-free Microcystis aeruginosa
Authors: Liang Ye , Ouyang Kai , Chen Xinglan , Su Yuqi , Yang Jiaxin
Published: February 2017

The occurrence of Microcystis blooms is a worldwide concern due to the numerous adverse effects on zooplankton. We therefore hypothesized that the cyanobacterium Microcystis aeruginosa is harmful to rotifer growth. Population and individual experiments were conducted with the same proportional volumes of Chlorella and Microcystis for given food densities. Life-table parameters, life-history traits, and the grazing intensity of Brachionus calyciflorus were evaluated after they had fed on microcystin-producing and microcystin-free Microcystis, both alone and combined with an edible alga (Chlorella pyrenoidosa), at concentrations of 1 × 105, 1 × 106, and 1 × 107 cells mL−1. The results showed that the interactive effects of food density and type appeared to be synergistic on generation time (T), net reproduction rate (R0), body length, swimming speed, and reproduction time. In contrast, these effects appeared to be antagonistic on intrinsic growth rate (r), finite rate of increase (λ), time to first brood, post-reproductive time and total offspring per female. The grazing rate of rotifers decreased with grazing time. Although the toxins released after grazing on M. aeruginosa had negative effects on rotifer growth and reproduction, B. calyciflorus changed its life strategy and grazing intensity in response to eutrophic conditions.
Synergistic suppression of autoimmune arthritis through concurrent treatment with tolerogenic DC and MSC
Authors: Li Rong , Zhang Yujuan , Zheng Xiufen , Peng Shanshan , Yuan Keng , Zhang Xusheng , Min Weiping
Published: February 2017

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by progressive immune-mediated joint deterioration. Current treatments are not antigen specific and are associated with various adverse. We have previously demonstrated that tolerogenic dendritic cells (Tol-DC) are potent antigen-specific immune regulators, which hold great promise in immunotherapy of autoimmune diseases. In this study, we aimed to develop new immunotherapy by combining Tol-DC and mesenchymal stem cells (MSC). We demonstrated that RelB gene silencing resulted in generation of Tol-DC that suppressed T cell responses and selectively promoted Treg generation. The combination of MSC synergized the tolerogenic capacity of Tol-DC in inhibition of T cell responses. In murine collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) model, we demonstrated that progression of arthritis was inhibited with administration of RelB gene-silenced Tol-DC or MSC. This therapeutic effect was remarkably enhanced with concurrent treatment of combination Tol-DC and MSC as demonstrated by improved clinical symptoms, decreased clinical scores and attenuated joint damage. These therapeutic effects were associated with suppression of CII-specific T cell responses, polarization of Th and inhibition of proinflammatory cytokines, and reduced cartilage degeneration. This study for the first time demonstrates a new approach to treat autoimmune inflammatory joint disease with concurrent treatment of RelB gene-silenced Tol-DC and MSC.
Organic pollution of rivers: Combined threats of urbanization, livestock farming and global climate change
Authors: Wen Yingrong , Schoups Gerrit , van de Giesen Nick
Published: February 2017

Organic pollution of rivers by wastewater discharge from human activities negatively impacts people and ecosystems. Without treatment, pollution control relies on a combination of natural degradation and dilution by natural runoff to reduce downstream effects. We quantify here for the first time the global sanitation crisis through its impact on organic river pollution from the threats of (1) increasing wastewater discharge due to urbanization and intensification of livestock farming, and (2) reductions in river dilution capacity due to climate change and water extractions. Using in-stream Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) as an overall indicator of organic river pollution, we calculate historical (2000) and future (2050) BOD concentrations in global river networks. Despite significant self-cleaning capacities of rivers, the number of people affected by organic pollution (BOD >5 mg/l) is projected to increase from 1.1 billion in 2000 to 2.5 billion in 2050. With developing countries disproportionately affected, our results point to a growing need for affordable wastewater solutions.
Unravelling the metabolic impact of SBS-associated microbial dysbiosis: Insights from the piglet short bowel syndrome model
Authors: Pereira-Fantini Prue M. , Byars Sean G. , Pitt James , Lapthorne Susan , Fouhy Fiona , Cotter Paul D. , Bines Julie E.
Published: February 2017

Liver disease is a major source of morbidity and mortality in children with short bowel syndrome (SBS). SBS-associated microbial dysbiosis has recently been implicated in the development of SBS-associated liver disease (SBS-ALD), however the pathological implications of this association have not been explored. In this study high-throughput sequencing of colonic content from the well-validated piglet SBS-ALD model was examined to determine alterations in microbial communities, and concurrent metabolic alterations identified in urine samples via targeted mass spectrometry approaches (GC-MS, LC-MS, FIA-MS) further uncovered impacts of microbial disturbance on metabolic outcomes in SBS-ALD. Multi-variate analyses were performed to elucidate contributing SBS-ALD microbe and metabolite panels and to identify microbe-metabolite interactions. A unique SBS-ALD microbe panel was clearest at the genus level, with discriminating bacteria predominantly from the Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes phyla. The SBS-ALD metabolome included important alterations in the microbial metabolism of amino acids and the mitochondrial metabolism of branched chain amino acids. Correlation analysis defined microbe-metabolite clustering patterns unique to SBS-ALD and identified a metabolite panel that correlates with dysbiosis of the gut microbiome in SBS.
Potential microbial contamination during sampling of permafrost soil assessed by tracers
Authors: Bang-Andreasen Toke , Schostag Morten , Priemé Anders , Elberling Bo , Jacobsen Carsten S.
Published: February 2017

Drilling and handling of permanently frozen soil cores without microbial contamination is of concern because contamination e.g. from the active layer above may lead to incorrect interpretation of results in experiments investigating potential and actual microbial activity in these low microbial biomass environments. Here, we present an example of how microbial contamination from active layer soil affected analysis of the potentially active microbial community in permafrost soil. We also present the development and use of two tracers: (1) fluorescent plastic microspheres and (2)Pseudomonas putidagenetically tagged with Green Fluorescent Protein production to mimic potential microbial contamination of two permafrost cores. A protocol with special emphasis on avoiding microbial contamination was developed and employed to examine how far microbial contamination can penetrate into permafrost cores. The quantity of tracer elements decreased with depth into the permafrost cores, but the tracers were detected as far as 17 mm from the surface of the cores. The results emphasize that caution should be taken to avoid microbial contamination of permafrost cores and that the application of tracers represents a useful tool to assess penetration of potential microbial contamination into permafrost cores.
Simultaneous enhancement of magnetic and mechanical properties in Ni-Mn-Sn alloy by Fe doping
Authors: Tan Changlong , Tai Zhipeng , Zhang Kun , Tian Xiaohua , Cai Wei
Published: February 2017

Both magnetic-field-induced reverse martensitic transformation (MFIRMT) and mechanical properties are crucial for application of Ni-Mn-Sn magnetic shape memory alloys. Here, we demonstrate that substitution of Fe for Ni can simultaneously enhance the MFIRMT and mechanical properties of Ni-Mn-Sn, which are advantageous for its applications. The austenite in Ni44Fe6Mn39Sn11 shows the typical ferromagnetic magnetization with the highest saturation magnetization of 69 emu/g at 223 K. The result shows that an appropriate amount of Fe substitution can really enhance the ferromagnetism of Ni50Mn39Sn11 alloy in austenite, which directly leads to the enhancement of MFIRMT. Meanwhile, the mechanical property significantly improves with Fe doping. When there is 4 at.% Fe added, the compressive and maximum strain reach the maximum value (approximately 725.4 MPa and 9.3%). Furthermore, using first-principles calculations, we clarify the origin of Fe doping on martensitic transformation and magnetic properties.
Biaxial strain effect induced electronic structure alternation and trimeron recombination in Fe3O4
Authors: Liu Xiang , Yin Li , Mi Wenbo
Published: February 2017

The Verwey transition in Fe3O4 is the first metal-insulator transition caused by charge ordering. However, the physical mechanism and influence factors of Verwey transition are still debated. Herewith, the strain effects on the electronic structure of low-temperature phase (LTP) Fe3O4 with P2/c and Cc symmetries are investigated by first-principles calculations. LTP Fe3O4 with each space group has a critical strain. With P2/c, Fe3O4 is sensitive to the compressive strain, but it is sensitive to tensile strain for Cc. In the critical region, the band gap of LTP Fe3O4 with both two symmetries linearly increases with strain. When strain exceeds the critical value, DOS of spin-down t2g electron at Fe(B4) with P2/c and Fe(B42) with Cc changes between dx2-y2 and dxz + dyz. The trimerons appear in Cc can be affected by strain. With a compressive strain, the correlation of trimeron along x and y axes is strengthened, but broken along the face diagonal of FeB4O4, which is opposite at the tensile strains. The results suggest that the electronic structure of Fe3O4 is tunable by strain. The narrower or wider band gap implies a lower or higher transition temperature than its bulk without strains, which also gives a glimpse of the origin of charge-orbital ordering in Fe3O4.
Tobacco vein banding mosaic virus 6K2 Protein Hijacks NbPsbO1 for Virus Replication
Authors: Geng Chao , Yan Zhi-Yong , Cheng De-Jie , Liu Jin , Tian Yan-Ping , Zhu Chang-Xiang , Wang Hong-Yan , Li Xiang-Dong
Published: February 2017

Chloroplast-bound vesicles are key components in viral replication complexes (VRCs) of potyviruses. The potyviral VRCs are induced by the second 6 kDa protein (6K2) and contain at least viral RNA and nuclear inclusion protein b. To date, no chloroplast protein has been identified to interact with 6K2 and involve in potyvirus replication. In this paper, we showed that the Photosystem II oxygen evolution complex protein of Nicotiana benthamiana (NbPsbO1) was a chloroplast protein interacting with 6K2 of Tobacco vein banding mosaic virus (TVBMV; genus Potyvirus) and present in the VRCs. The first 6 kDa protein (6K1) was recruited to VRCs by 6K2 but had no interaction with NbPSbO1. Knockdown of NbPsbO1 gene expression in N. benthamiana plants through virus-induced gene silencing significantly decreased the accumulation levels of TVBMV and another potyvirus Potato virus Y, but not Potato virus X of genus Potexvirus. Amino acid substitutions in 6K2 that disrupted its interaction with NbPsbO1 also affected the replication of TVBMV. NbPsbP1 and NbPsbQ1, two other components of the Photosystem II oxygen evolution complex had no interaction with 6K2 and no effect on TVBMV replication. To conclude, 6K2 recruits 6K1 to VRCs and hijacks chloroplast protein NbPsbO1 to regulate potyvirus replication.
Thermal compaction of the intrinsically disordered protein tau: entropic, structural, and hydrophobic factors
Authors: Battisti Anna , Ciasca Gabriele , Grottesi Alessandro , Tenenbaum Alexander
Published: February 2017

The first quantitative assessment of the entropic, hydrophobic, and structural factors producing the thermal compaction of tau, an intrinsically disordered protein.
Maltose-binding protein effectively stabilizes the partially closed conformation of the ATP-binding cassette transporter MalFGK2
Authors: Weng Jingwei , Gu Shuo , Gao Xin , Huang Xuhui , Wang Wenning
Published: February 2017

Maltose transporter MalFGK2is a type-I importer in the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter superfamily.
Swollen micelles and alcohol–surfactant co-adsorption: structures and mechanisms from liquid- and solid-state 1H–1H NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Totland Christian , Blokhus Anne Marit
Published: February 2017

Mixtures of surfactants and medium-chained alcohols display an anomalous phase behaviour, with the formation of swollen micelles in mid-range surfactant concentrations. Such alcohols also affect the aggregation and adsorption behaviour of surfactants at solid–liquid interfaces.
Preparation of zirconium and hafnium complexes containing chiral N atoms from asymmetric tertiary amine ligands, and their catalytic properties for polymerization of rac-lactide
Authors: Hu Minggang , Han Fuzhong , Zhang Wenzhi , Ma Wenhui , Deng Qigang , Song Weiming , Yan Hailong , Dong Guohua
Published: February 2017

Preparation of Zr and Hf complexes containing chiral N atoms, and their use in polymerization of rac-lactide.
Micro vapor bubble jet flow for safe and high-rate fluorescence-activated cell sorting
Authors: de Wijs Koen , Liu Chengxun , Dusa Alexandra , Vercruysse Dries , Majeed Bivragh , Tezcan Deniz Sabuncuoglu , Blaszkiewicz Kamil , Loo Josine , Lagae Liesbet
Published: February 2017

High rate and safe cell sorting is enabled by rapid thermal bubble jet flow in a closed microfluidic chip.
Screening methods for identifying pharmacological chaperones
Authors: Shin Min Hyeon , Lim Hyun-Suk
Published: February 2017

This review highlights recent screening methods for identifying pharmacological chaperones, which are small-molecules capable of rescuing misfolded proteins.
Quantum mechanical investigation of G-quartet systems of DNA
Authors: Villani Giovanni
Published: February 2017

Minima of the electric field and positions of K+and Na+(zero of thex-coordinate is the center of the cavity).
Real-time in situ analysis of biocorona formation and evolution on silica nanoparticles in defined and complex biological environments
Authors: Frost Rickard , Langhammer Christoph , Cedervall Tommy
Published: February 2017

The corona formation process is studied in real-time and with respect to surface faceting using core–shell nanoplasmonic sensors.
Rational design of soluble and clickable polymers prepared by conventional free radical polymerization of acetylene-functionalized acrylate
Authors: Liu Yu , Shui Xiaochuan , Wang Meng , Zhang Chenguang , Wang Yuechuan
Published: February 2017

Soluble and clickable acetylene-functionalized polyacrylates were synthesized via conventional free radical polymerization of a rationally designed tertiary propargylic acrylate.
A partial proteome reference map of Tetragenococcus halophilus and comparative proteomic and physiological analysis under salt stress
Authors: He Guiqiang , Deng Jingcheng , Wu Chongde , Huang Jun
Published: February 2017

Tetragenococcus halophilus, a moderately halophilic Gram-positive lactic acid bacteria, was widely existed in many food fermentation systems, where salt stress is an environmental condition commonly encountered.
Electronic and transport behavior of doped armchair silicene nanoribbons exhibiting negative differential resistance and its FET performance
Authors: Singh Sukhbir , De Sarkar Abir , Singh Bijender , Kaur Inderpreet
Published: February 2017

The electronic and transport properties of armchair silicene nanoribbons (ASiNRs) doped with various elements are investigated.
Nanodiamonds as Raman probes for specifically targeted bioimaging: visualization and mechanism study of the biorecognition between nanodiamonds-EGF and EGFR
Authors: Li Dandan , Chen Xin , Wang Hong , Yu Yuan , Liu Jie , Wang Yu , Zhang Jinghua , Zheng Meiling , Zhi Jinfang
Published: February 2017

Targeting ligand EGF induced cell morphology change and potential cell migration risks visualized with Raman mapping using NDs as probes.
Experimental study and transient CFD/DEM simulation in a fluidized bed based on different drag models
Authors: Zhou Ling , Zhang Lingjie , Bai Ling , Shi Weidong , Li Wei , Wang Chuan , Agarwal Ramesh
Published: February 2017

Under the architecture of CFD/DEM, Gidaspow drag model gives the better prediction of the inner flow in the dense gas–solid fluidized bed.
RNA-mediated fluorescent colloidal CdSe nanostructures in aqueous medium – analysis of Cd2+ induced folding of RNA associated with morphological transformation (0D to 1D), change in photophysics and selective Hg2+ sensing
Authors: Kumar Anil , Gupta Komal
Published: February 2017

RNA-mediated fluorescent Cd2+/CdSe QDs self-assembled to produce nanoneedles, exhibiting enhanced photophysics and current under photoillumination, and selective Hg2+-sensing capability.
Toughening of Y-doped BaZrO3 proton conducting electrolytes by hydration
Authors: Sažinas Rokas , Einarsrud Mari-Ann , Grande Tor
Published: February 2017

The chemical expansion due to hydration of oxygen vacancies in BaZrO3-based proton conductors is accompanied by increasing fracture toughness.
Strong magnetic frustration in Y3Cu9(OH)19Cl8: a distorted kagome antiferromagnet
Authors: Puphal Pascal , Bolte Michael , Sheptyakov Denis , Pustogow Andrej , Kliemt Kristin , Dressel Martin , Baenitz Michael , Krellner Cornelius
Published: February 2017

A strongly frustrated ordered state can be induced in Y3Cu9(OH)19Cl8 by slightly modifying the perfect kagome lattice YCu3(OH)6Cl3.
Hydrophobic silver nanowire membrane for swabbing extraction and in situ SERS detection of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons on toys
Authors: Xiao Lanlan , Zhang Min , Liu Zhen , Bian Weiwei , Zhang Xiaoli , Zhan Jinhua
Published: February 2017

The migration of solid samples from the interior to the surface of materials has raised serious concerns due to the increasing environmental health hazards in recent years.
Electrodeposited-hydroxide surface-covered porous nickel–cobalt alloy electrodes for efficient oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Vishnu Prataap R. K. , Mohan S.
Published: February 2017

Herein, we present the electrochemical fabrication of a hydroxide surface-covered nickel–cobalt alloy and its superior catalytic activity towards the electrochemical oxygen evolution reaction in alkaline media.
Carbodiphosphorane mediated synthesis of a triflyloxyphosphonium dication and its reactivity towards nucleophiles
Authors: Yogendra S. , Hennersdorf F. , Bauzá A. , Frontera A. , Fischer R. , Weigand J. J.
Published: February 2017

Synthesis of the triflyloxyphosphonium dication is presented bearing two electrophilic sites which are selectively addressable by different nucleophiles.
Using water adsorption measurements to access the chemistry of defects in the metal–organic framework UiO-66
Authors: Dissegna Stefano , Hardian Rifan , Epp Konstantin , Kieslich Gregor , Coulet Marie-Vanessa , Llewellyn Philip , Fischer Roland A.
Published: February 2017

Defects in UiO-66 were investigated for the first time by water adsorption measurements and then the materials were tested for the cyanosilylation of benzaldehyde.
Magnesium amide catalyzed selective hydroboration of esters
Authors: Barman Milan Kr. , Baishya Ashim , Nembenna Sharanappa
Published: February 2017

Cheaper, inexpensive alkaline-earth metal amides as efficient pre-catalysts for the selective hydroboration of a large number of esters.
Porous hollow MoS2 microspheres derived from core–shell sulfonated polystyrene microspheres@MoS2 nanosheets for efficient electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution
Authors: Yi Jun-Dong , Shi Peng-Chao , Liang Jun , Cao Min-Na , Huang Yuan-Biao , Cao Rong
Published: February 2017

Hollow MoS2 microspheres were constructed using monodisperse sulfonated polystyrene (SPS) as the template, and exhibited excellent HER performance.
Light and force dual-responsive waterborne polyurethane in multiple states
Authors: Zhang Qiuhong , Wang Yikai , Xing Chong , Cai Yifeng , Xi Kai , Jia Xudong
Published: February 2017

Novel SP-WPU presents UV light and force dual-responsive properties in both dispersed state and solid state. The environmental friendly material provides an alternative to extend the application for smart coatings and textiles in industry.
Shape-transformable liquid metal nanoparticles in aqueous solution
Authors: Lin Yiliang , Liu Yang , Genzer Jan , Dickey Michael D.
Published: February 2017

This paper reports the formation of shape-changing and phase-transforming liquid metal particles that have potential applications in drug delivery, catalysis, colloidal jamming, and optics.
Intra- versus intermolecular electron transfer in radical nucleophilic aromatic substitution of dihalo(hetero)arenes – a tool for estimating π-conjugation in aromatic systems
Authors: Janhsen B. , Daniliuc C. G. , Studer A.
Published: February 2017

In this paper, the application of the double radical nucleophilic aromatic substitution (SRN1) in various dihalogenated, mostly diiodinated, π-conjugated systems as a tool for qualitatively estimating their π-conjugation is described.
Fast fabrication of a self-cleaning coating constructed with scallion-like ZnO using a perfect colloidal monolayer enabled by a predictive self-assembly method
Authors: Wu Yizhi , Chen Chen , Liu Yunxi , Xu Xiaoliang , Yang Zhou , Zhang Haiming , Liu Ling , Zhang Yi
Published: February 2017

Fast fabrication of a scallion-like ZnO self-cleaning coating using a colloidal crystal enabled by MC simulation is developed for the first time.
High-content of sulfur uniformly embedded in mesoporous carbon: a new electrodeposition synthesis and an outstanding lithium–sulfur battery cathode
Authors: Zhang Liyuan , Huang Hui , Xia Yang , Liang Chu , Zhang Wenkui , Luo Jianmin , Gan Yongping , Zhang Jun , Tao Xinyong , Fan Hong Jin
Published: February 2017

Embedding sulfur into the mesopores of mesoporous carbon by an electrodeposition strategy with a possible self-limiting mechanism to avoid excessive deposition.
Aminopolymer functionalization of boron nitride nanosheets for highly efficient capture of carbon dioxide
Authors: Huang Kuan , Liang Liangbo , Chai Songhai , Tumuluri Uma , Li Meijun , Wu Zili , Sumpter Bobby G. , Dai Sheng
Published: February 2017

BN nanosheets were functionalized with polyethyleneimine (PEI) which is rich in amine density, through simple impregnation to improve their performance for CO2 capture.
Dilemme « traiter avec ou sans extraction » : discussion à propos d’un cas limite
Authors: Chaqués-Asensi José
Published: February 2017

Introduction :Le dilemme de traiter avec ou sans extraction est l’un des débats des plus classiques de l’histoire de l’orthodontie [2, 19, 30]. Parfois, le choix est aisé. Mais, dans certains cas, les avis des cliniciens peuvent facilement diverger. Pour une situation clinique donnée, plusieurs auteurs peuvent proposer des protocoles décisionnels différents pour analyser les paramètres de choix en faveur d’un traitement avec extraction ou sans extraction dans une situation clinique donnée. Ces vingt-cinq dernières années, le débat s’est recentré sur des tendances non extractionnistes basées sur de nouvelles philosophies et mécaniques. Dans ce contexte, il nous semble pertinent de confronter les anciens protocoles décisionnels aux nouveaux pour rechercher un consensus.Matériel et méthodes :La décision d’extraire varie naturellement en fonction de l’occlusion du patient, qu’il soit en classe I, en classe II ou en classe III. Dans des cas de classe II ou de classe III, les extractions peuvent être indiquées pour corriger la classe II canine, le surplomb, l’inversion d’articulé antérieure, indépendamment d’autres facteurs. Nous présentons dans cet article le cas d’une patiente en classe I dont le plan de traitement prête vraiment à discussion car les paramètres tels que l’encombrement, la typologie craniofaciale, l’esthétique du visage, l’occlusion et le type parodontal doivent tous être mis en équation pour pouvoir faire un choix.Résultats :Les différentes options de traitement, leurs avantages et leurs inconvénients sont analysés. Les résultats de l’option thérapeutique choisie sont décrits et discutés. Cependant, les cas limites sont sujets à réflexion; sans doute différentes propositions ou stratégies thérapeutiques sont envisageables. La discussion reste ouverte. Ne vous privez pas d’y apporter votre contribution.
Gérer son cabinet d’orthodontie entre rigueur et flexibilité
Authors: Binhas Edmond , Binhas Corinne
Published: February 2017

Introduction : Un orthodontiste libéral doit comprendre le contexte puis conjuguer logique, émotion, intuition et sens pratique. L’approche productiviste n’est plus acceptable désormais. Il est nécessaire de combiner rigueur, souplesse et pragmatisme. Discussion : Le perfectionnisme obsessionnel est inefficace. De fait, il y a quatre façons de faire preuve d’une détermination flexible : persévérer lorsque cela s’avère approprié, emporter l’adhésion de son entourage, savoir revenir sur certaines décisions, faire appel à la volonté collective. Une autre caractéristique nécessaire est d’avoir la souplesse de changer ses propres habitudes et de faire changer celle des autres. Des exemples pratiques basés sur les cinq ressources disponibles (le temps, l’argent, les individus, la formation et le matériel) viennent illustrer les concepts évoqués. Conclusion : Deux qualités sont nécessaires au chef d’entreprise orthodontiste d’aujourd’hui : une direction ferme et de la souplesse. La meilleure attitude réside dans la combinaison de ces deux exigences contradictoires en apparence.
A Merged Aldol Condensation, Alkene Isomerization, Cycloaddition/Cycloreversion Sequence Employing Oxazinone Intermediates for the Synthesis of Substituted Pyridines
Authors: Scheerer Jonathan , Williamson Jill , Smith Emily
Published: February 2017

A domino reaction sequence has been evaluated that begins with union of novel dihydrooxazinone precursors with 2-alkynyl-substituted benzaldehyde components through aldol condensation. Ensuing operations, including alkene isomerization, Diels–Alder, and retrograde Diels–Alder with loss of CO2 occurs in the same reaction vessel to provide polysubstituted tricyclic pyridine products.
Efficient Synthesis of 3-Amino-1,5-benzodiazepine-2-one Derivatives
Authors: Obara Nobuhiro , Watanabe Takeshi , Asakawa Tomohiro , Kan Toshiyuki , Tanaka Takao
Published: February 2017

A convenient method for synthesizing 3-amino-1,5-benzodiazepine-2-one via the Michael addition reaction of o-phenylenediamine with dehydroalanine ester derivatives, followed by cyclization, was developed. This simple method was used to obtain a variety of N-substituted 3-amino-1,5-benzodiazepine-2-ones in one pot with good yields.
Non-contact temperature field measurement of solids by infrared multispectral thermotransmittance
Authors: Pradere C. , Ryu M. , Sommier A. , Romano M. , Kusiak A. , Battaglia J. L. , Batsale J. C. , Morikawa J.
Published: February 2017

This work aims to achieve contactless absolute-temperature measurements of infrared-semi-transparent solids using an infrared thermal and spectroscopic imaging technique. The multispectral thermo-transmittance coefficient fields in the 3–5 μm wavelength range for Sapphire, KBr, and Silicon are determined to be 6 × 10−4 K−1, 4 × 10−4 K−1, and −3 × 10−3 K−1, respectively. The most interesting result is the high temperature-dependent transmittance coefficient in the middle wave infrared region. With these coefficients, the absolute temperature fields in a range from room temperature to 140 °C are shown.