bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Divergence and overlap in bilingual conceptual representation: does prior language brokering experience matter?
Authors: LÓPEZ BELEM G. , VAID JYOTSNA
Published: October 2016

The present research examined whether conceptual divergence is reduced in bilinguals with extensive informal translation experience. Across two experiments, Spanish–English bilinguals (brokers vs. non-brokers) generated exemplars for 10 categories, using the same or different language across sessions. Both groups demonstrated more divergence for different than same language responses across sessions a week apart. More convergence was found in both groups for no delay compared to delayed responses. Brokers showed significantly more convergence in exemplars than non-brokers; for both immediate and delayed sessions Findings indicate exemplars are differentially accessible depending on language and timing of response, but also individual differences in brokering experience. Extensive brokering experience may lead to a more integrated conceptual representation for features of concepts shared across languages. Findings support concept models that emphasize the dynamic and distributed nature of concepts, and underscore the need to consider the cognitive impact of systematic sources of variability among bilinguals.
Global fascism: geography, timing, support, and strategy
Authors: Jacoby Tim
Published: October 2016

This article considers four aspects for understanding the greatly over-used term ‘fascism’: its place in space and also in time, the basis of its social support, and its modus operandi. While agreement exists on where and when fascism reached its apogee, there is little concurrence of opinion over the extent to which the world wars were determinative in its birth and death, and how far beyond European boundaries it has ventured. There are also wide-ranging discussions concerning the identity and extent of its backers, with some writers pointing to the formative role of the lumpen body politic, or various class fractions, and others to that of an elite vanguard, or even individual alienation. A similar spectrum of opinion over the basis of fascism’s appeal extends from studies emphasizing, and elucidating, its ideational content to those that focus on the pragmatic value of action. Such a great diversity of analyses brings both considerable empirical richness and the challenge of fragmentation. This article responds by reflecting on fascism as both a social phenomenon and a field of study, in the hope of bringing some analytical structure to what remains a vast, and continuously developing, literature.
Democracy and institutions in postcolonial Africa
Authors: GREEN ALAN
Published: October 2016

Africa has seen a steady rise in democracy since the end of the Cold War. This paper investigates two possible implications of democratization in African countries: better economic growth through improved institutions and less civil conflict through increased political participation. Instrumental variables regressions are estimated with the spatial lag of democracy. This instrument varies over time, allowing for consideration of country fixed effects in IV regressions. Large positive impacts of institutions on economic growth and of political participation on reducing civil conflict are found in IV regressions with fixed effects. Further estimates show that both growth and civil violence effects may be driven by civil liberties.
Aspergillose
Authors: Damonti Lauro , Boggian Katia
Published: October 2016

Zusammenfassung. Aspergillus spp gehört zur Gattung der Schimmelpilze und kann, abhängig von der Abwehrsituation des Wirtes, die verschiedensten Krankheitsbilder hervorrufen. Die invasive pulmonale Aspergillose kommt in erster Linie bei schwer immunsupprimierten Patienten vor. Neue Risikofaktoren für eine pulmonale Aspergillose sind die intensivmedizinische Behandlung und chronische Lungenerkrankungen. Dank der besseren antifungalen Therapie hat die Mortalität insgesamt im Vergleich zu früheren Jahren leicht abgenommen, ist aber bei bestimmten Grunderkrankungen immer noch sehr hoch. Wir gehen in erster Linie auf die invasive pulmonale Aspergillose ein, werden aber auch die chronisch pulmonale Aspergillose und die allergisch bronchopulmonale Aspergillose beleuchten.
Isavuconazol
Authors: Osthoff Michael , Bättig Veronika , Khanna Nina
Published: October 2016

Zusammenfassung. Isavuconazol ist ein neues Triazol zur Behandlung der invasiven Aspergillose und Mukormykose. Es besitzt eine breite antimykotische Aktivität u. a. gegen viele Candida, Aspergillus und Mucorales spezies (spp.). Der vorliegende Beitrag fasst die bisherigen Erkenntnisse zur Pharmakologie, antimykotische Aktivität und klinischen Wirksamkeit zusammen und gibt einen Ausblick auf zukünftige Einsatzgebiete in der Schweiz.
Scientists Spend Arctic Winter Adrift on Sea Ice
Authors: Kristoffersen Yngve , Tholfsen Audun , Hall John , Stein Ruediger
Published: October 2016

A hovercraft-based ice drift station gives researchers access to previously inaccessible regions of the changing Arctic sea ice cover off the coast of Greenland.
Specification of haematopoietic stem cell fate via modulation of mitochondrial activity
Authors: Vannini Nicola , Girotra Mukul , Naveiras Olaia , Nikitin Gennady , Campos Vasco , Giger Sonja , Roch Aline , Auwerx Johan , Lutolf Matthias P.
Published: October 2016

Haematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) differ from their committed progeny by relying primarily on anaerobic glycolysis rather than mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation for energy production. However, whether this change in the metabolic program is the cause or the consequence of the unique function of HSCs remains unknown. Here we show that enforced modulation of energy metabolism impacts HSC self-renewal. Lowering the mitochondrial activity of HSCs by chemically uncoupling the electron transport chain drives self-renewal under culture conditions that normally induce rapid differentiation. We demonstrate that this metabolic specification of HSC fate occurs through the reversible decrease of mitochondrial mass by autophagy. Our data thus reveal a causal relationship between mitochondrial metabolism and fate choice of HSCs and also provide a valuable tool to expand HSCs outside of their native bone marrow niches.
Polarization of M2 macrophages requires Lamtor1 that integrates cytokine and amino-acid signals
Authors: Kimura Tetsuya , Nada Shigeyuki , Takegahara Noriko , Okuno Tatsusada , Nojima Satoshi , Kang Sujin , Ito Daisuke , Morimoto Keiko , Hosokawa Takashi , Hayama Yoshitomo , Mitsui Yuichi , Sakurai Natsuki , Sarashina-Kida Hana , Nishide Masayuki , Maeda Yohei , Takamatsu Hyota , Okuzaki Daisuke , Yamada Masaki , Okada Masato , Kumanogoh Atsushi
Published: October 2016

Macrophages play crucial roles in host defence and tissue homoeostasis, processes in which both environmental stimuli and intracellularly generated metabolites influence activation of macrophages. Activated macrophages are classified into M1 and M2 macrophages. It remains unclear how intracellular nutrition sufficiency, especially for amino acid, influences on macrophage activation. Here we show that a lysosomal adaptor protein Lamtor1, which forms an amino-acid sensing complex with lysosomal vacuolar-type H+-ATPase (v-ATPase), and is the scaffold for amino acid-activated mTORC1 (mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1), is critically required for M2 polarization. Lamtor1 deficiency, amino-acid starvation, or inhibition of v-ATPase and mTOR result in defective M2 polarization and enhanced M1 polarization. Furthermore, we identified liver X receptor (LXR) as the downstream target of Lamtor1 and mTORC1. Production of 25-hydroxycholesterol is dependent on Lamtor1 and mTORC1. Our findings demonstrate that Lamtor1 plays an essential role in M2 polarization, coupling immunity and metabolism.
Nicotinamide is an endogenous agonist for a C. elegans TRPV OSM-9 and OCR-4 channel
Authors: Upadhyay Awani , Pisupati Aditya , Jegla Timothy , Crook Matt , Mickolajczyk Keith J. , Shorey Matthew , Rohan Laura E. , Billings Katherine A. , Rolls Melissa M. , Hancock William O. , Hanna-Rose Wendy
Published: October 2016

TRPV ion channels are directly activated by sensory stimuli and participate in thermo-, mechano- and chemo-sensation. They are also hypothesized to respond to endogenous agonists that would modulate sensory responses. Here, we show that the nicotinamide (NAM) form of vitamin B3 is an agonist of a Caenorhabditis elegans TRPV channel. Using heterologous expression in Xenopus oocytes, we demonstrate that NAM is a soluble agonist for a channel consisting of the well-studied OSM-9 TRPV subunit and relatively uncharacterized OCR-4 TRPV subunit as well as the orthologous Drosophila Nan-Iav TRPV channel, and we examine stoichiometry of subunit assembly. Finally, we show that behaviours mediated by these C. elegans and Drosophila channels are responsive to NAM, suggesting conservation of activity of this soluble endogenous metabolite on TRPV activity. Our results in combination with the role of NAM in NAD+ metabolism suggest an intriguing link between metabolic regulation and TRPV channel activity.
Parental vitamin deficiency affects the embryonic gene expression of immune-, lipid transport- and apolipoprotein genes
Authors: Skjærven Kaja H. , Jakt Lars Martin , Dahl John Arne , Espe Marit , Aanes Håvard , Hamre Kristin , Fernandes Jorge M. O.
Published: October 2016

World Health Organization is concerned for parental vitamin deficiency and its effect on offspring health. This study examines the effect of a marginally dietary-induced parental one carbon (1-C) micronutrient deficiency on embryonic gene expression using zebrafish. Metabolic profiling revealed a reduced 1-C cycle efficiency in F0generation. Parental deficiency reduced the fecundity and a total of 364 genes were differentially expressed in the F1embryos. The upregulated genes (53%) in the deficient group were enriched in biological processes such as immune response and blood coagulation. Several genes encoding enzymes essential for the 1-C cycle and for lipid transport (especially apolipoproteins) were aberrantly expressed. We show that a parental diet deficient in micronutrients disturbs the expression in descendant embryos of genes associated with overall health and result in inherited aberrations in the 1-C cycle and lipid metabolism. This emphasises the importance of parental micronutrient status for the health of the offspring.
A novel bio-mimicking, planar nano-edge microelectrode enables enhanced long-term neural recording
Authors: Wijdenes Pierre , Ali Hasan , Armstrong Ryden , Zaidi Wali , Dalton Colin , Syed Naweed I.
Published: October 2016

Our inability to accurately monitor individual neurons and their synaptic activity precludes fundamental understanding of brain function under normal and various pathological conditions. However, recent breakthroughs in micro- and nano-scale fabrication processes have advanced the development of neuro-electronic hybrid technology. Among such devices are three-dimensional and planar electrodes, offering the advantages of either high fidelity or longer-term recordings respectively. Here, we present the next generation of planar microelectrode arrays with “nano-edges” that enable long-term (≥1 month) and high fidelity recordings at a resolution 15 times higher than traditional planar electrodes. This novel technology enables better understanding of brain function and offers a tremendous opportunity towards the development of future bionic hybrids and drug discovery devices.
Network diffusion-based analysis of high-throughput data for the detection of differentially enriched modules
Authors: Bersanelli Matteo , Mosca Ettore , Remondini Daniel , Castellani Gastone , Milanesi Luciano
Published: October 2016

A relation exists between network proximity of molecular entities in interaction networks, functional similarity and association with diseases. The identification of network regions associated with biological functions and pathologies is a major goal in systems biology. We describe a network diffusion-based pipeline for the interpretation of different types of omics in the context of molecular interaction networks. We introduce the network smoothing index, a network-based quantity that allows to jointly quantify the amount of omics information in genes and in their network neighbourhood, using network diffusion to define network proximity. The approach is applicable to both descriptive and inferential statistics calculated on omics data. We also show that network resampling, applied to gene lists ranked by quantities derived from the network smoothing index, indicates the presence of significantly connected genes. As a proof of principle, we identified gene modules enriched in somatic mutations and transcriptional variations observed in samples of prostate adenocarcinoma (PRAD). In line with the local hypothesis, network smoothing index and network resampling underlined the existence of a connected component of genes harbouring molecular alterations in PRAD.
Gradient Mn-La-Pt Catalysts with Three-layered Structure for Li-O2 battery
Authors: Cai Kedi , Yang Rui , Lang Xiaoshi , Zhang Qingguo , Wang Zhenhua , He Tieshi
Published: October 2016

Gradient Mn-La-Pt catalysts with three-layered structure of manganese dioxide (MnO2), lanthanum oxide (La2O3), and Platinum (Pt) for Li-O2 battery are prepared in this study. The mass ratio of the catalysts is respectively 5:2:3, 4:2:4, and 3:2:5 (MnO2: La2O3: Pt) which is start from the side of the electrolyte. The relationship between morphology structure and electrochemical performance of gradient catalyst is investigated by energy dispersive spectrometry and constant current charge/discharge test. The Li-O2 battery based on gradient Mn-La-Pt catalysts shows high discharge specific capacity (2707 mAh g−1), specific energy density (8400 Wh kg−1) and long cycle life (56 cycles). The improvement of the Li-O2 battery discharge capacity is attributed to the gradient distribution of MnO2 and Pt and the involvement of La2O3 that can improve the energy density of the battery. More important, this work will also provide new ideas and methods for the research of other metal-air battery.
Effects of size and surface on the auxetic behaviour of monolayer graphene kirigami
Authors: Cai Kun , Luo Jing , Ling Yiru , Wan Jing , Qin Qing-hua
Published: October 2016

Graphene is an active element used in the design of nano-electro-mechanical systems (NEMS) owing to its excellent in-plane physical properties on mechanical, electric and thermal aspects. Considering a component requiring negative Poisson’s ratio in NEMS, a graphene kirigami (GK) containing periodic re-entrant honeycombs is a natural option. This study demonstrates that a GK with specific auxetic property can be obtained by adjusting the sizes of its honeycombs. Using molecular dynamics experiments, the size effects on the auxetic behaviour of GK are investigated. In some cases, the auxetic difference between the hydrogenated GK and continuum kirigami (CK) is negligible, in which the results from macro CK can be used to predict auxetic behaviour of nano kirigami. Surface effect of GK is demonstrated from two aspects. One is to identify the difference of mechanical responses between the pure carbon GK and the hydrogenated GK at same geometry and loading condition. Another is from the difference of mechanical responses between the GK model and the CK model under same loading condition and geometric configuration. Generally, surface energy makes the GK possess higher variation of auxetic behaviour. It also results in higher modulus for the GK as comparing with that of the CK.
Selective resource allocation may promote a sex ratio in pollinator fig wasps more beneficial for the host tree
Authors: Li Zhao-Tian , Peng Yan-Qiong , Wen Xiao-Lan , Jandér K. Charlotte
Published: October 2016

Mutualisms play a key role in most ecosystems, yet the mechanisms that prevent overexploitation of the mutualistic relationship are still poorly understood. In the mutualism between fig trees and their pollinating wasps both partners depend on each other. Fig trees benefit from female wasps that disperse their pollen, whereas wasps frequently benefit from a higher ratio of male offspring. Here we use manipulative field experiments to address whether host trees (Ficus racemosa) can influence the offspring sex ratio of the pollinator wasp. We controlled wasp matings; virgin wasps can lay only male eggs. We found that virgin foundress wasps had fewer offspring than mated foundresses. This was not caused by virgin wasps having a shorter lifespan, or laying fewer eggs. Instead, male wasp larvae were more likely to die during development. Additionally, male eggs were deposited in flowers of equal style length to those of female eggs, yet emerged from galls with shorter pedicels than those of female wasps. We suggest that male larvae are either allocated less resources by the tree, or are less able to attract resources, during development. If the tree orchestrates this difference it would promote a more female-biased wasp brood, thus increasing the tree’s fitness.
FUS interacts with nuclear matrix-associated protein SAFB1 as well as Matrin3 to regulate splicing and ligand-mediated transcription
Authors: Yamaguchi Atsushi , Takanashi Keisuke
Published: October 2016

FUS (Fused-in-Sarcoma) is a multifunctional DNA/RNA binding protein linked to familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/frontotemporal dementia (ALS/FTD). Since FUS is localized mainly in the nucleus with nucleo-cytoplasmic shuttling, it is critical to understand physiological functions in the nucleus to clarify pathogenesis. Here we report a yeast two-hybrid screening identified FUS interaction with nuclear matrix-associated protein SAFB1 (scaffold attachment factor B1). FUS and SAFB1, abundant in chromatin-bound fraction, interact in a DNA-dependent manner. N-terminal SAP domain of SAFB1, a DNA-binding motif, was required for its localization to chromatin-bound fraction and splicing regulation. In addition, depletion of SAFB1 reduced FUS’s localization to chromatin-bound fraction and splicing activity, suggesting SAFB1 could tether FUS to chromatin compartment thorough N-terminal DNA-binding motif. FUS and SAFB1 also interact with Androgen Receptor (AR) regulating ligand-dependent transcription. Moreover, FUS interacts with another nuclear matrix-associated protein Matrin3, which is muted in a subset of familial ALS cases and reportedly interacts with TDP-43. Interestingly, ectopic ALS-linked FUS mutant sequestered endogenous Matrin3 and SAFB1 in the cytoplasmic aggregates. These findings indicate SAFB1 could be a FUS’s functional platform in chromatin compartment to regulate RNA splicing and ligand-dependent transcription and shed light on the etiological significance of nuclear matrix-associated proteins in ALS pathogenesis.
Thapsigargin sensitizes human esophageal cancer to TRAIL-induced apoptosis via AMPK activation
Authors: Ma Zhiqiang , Fan Chongxi , Yang Yang , Di Shouyin , Hu Wei , Li Tian , Zhu Yifang , Han Jing , Xin Zhenlong , Wu Guiling , Zhao Jing , Li Xiaofei , Yan Xiaolong
Published: October 2016

Tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) is a promising anticancer agent for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Forced expression of CHOP, one of the key downstream transcription factors during endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, upregulates the death receptor 5 (DR5) levels and promotes oxidative stress and cell death. In this study, we show that ER stress mediated by thapsigargin promoted CHOP and DR5 synthesis thus sensitizing TRAIL treatment, which induced ESCC cells apoptosis. These effects were reversed by DR5 siRNA in vitro and CHOP siRNA both in vitro and in vivo. Besides, chemically inhibition of AMPK by Compound C and AMPK siRNA weakened the anti-cancer effect of thapsigargin and TRAIL co-treatment. Therefore, our findings suggest ER stress effectively sensitizes human ESCC to TRAIL-mediated apoptosis via the TRAIL-DR5-AMPK signaling pathway, and that activation of ER stress may be beneficial for improving the efficacy of TRAIL-based anti-cancer therapy.
Ocean rogue waves and their phase space dynamics in the limit of a linear interference model
Authors: Birkholz Simon , Brée Carsten , Veselić Ivan , Demircan Ayhan , Steinmeyer Günter
Published: October 2016

We reanalyse the probability for formation of extreme waves using the simple model of linear interference of a finite number of elementary waves with fixed amplitude and random phase fluctuations. Under these model assumptions no rogue waves appear when less than 10 elementary waves interfere with each other. Above this threshold rogue wave formation becomes increasingly likely, with appearance frequencies that may even exceed long-term observations by an order of magnitude. For estimation of the effective number of interfering waves, we suggest the Grassberger-Procaccia dimensional analysis of individual time series. For the ocean system, it is further shown that the resulting phase space dimension may vary, such that the threshold for rogue wave formation is not always reached. Time series analysis as well as the appearance of particular focusing wind conditions may enable an effective forecast of such rogue-wave prone situations. In particular, extracting the dimension from ocean time series allows much more specific estimation of the rogue wave probability.
Smad4 is required to inhibit osteoclastogenesis and maintain bone mass
Authors: Morita Mayu , Yoshida Shigeyuki , Iwasaki Ryotaro , Yasui Tetsuro , Sato Yuiko , Kobayashi Tami , Watanabe Ryuichi , Oike Takatsugu , Miyamoto Kana , Takami Masamichi , Ozato Keiko , Deng Chu-Xia , Aburatani Hiroyuki , Tanaka Sakae , Yoshimura Akihiko , Toyama Yoshiaki , Matsumoto Morio , Nakamura Masaya , Kawana Hiromasa , Nakagawa Taneaki , Miyamoto Takeshi
Published: October 2016

Bone homeostasis is maintained as a delicate balance between bone-resorption and bone-formation, which are coupled to maintain appropriate bone mass. A critical question is how bone-resorption is terminated to allow bone-formation to occur. Here, we show that TGFβs inhibit osteoclastogenesis and maintain bone-mass through Smad4 activity in osteoclasts. We found that latent-TGFβ1 was activated by osteoclasts to inhibit osteoclastogenesis. Osteoclast-specific Smad4 conditional knockout mice (Smad4-cKO) exhibited significantly reduced bone-mass and elevated osteoclast formation relative to controls. TGFβ1-activation induced expression of Irf8 and Bcl6, both of which encode factors inhibiting osteoclastogenesis, by blocking their negative regulator, Prdm1, in osteoclasts in a Smad4-dependent manner. Reduced bone-mass and accelerated osteoclastogenesis seen in Smad4-cKO were abrogated by Prdm1 deletion. Administration of latent-TGFβ1-Fc to wild-type mice antagonized LPS-induced bone destruction in a model of activated osteoclast-mediated bone destruction. Thus, latent-TGFβ1-Fc could serve as a promising new therapeutic agent in bone diseases marked by excessive resorption.
Detecting the Curvature of de Sitter Universe with Two Entangled Atoms
Authors: Tian Zehua , Wang Jieci , Jing Jiliang , Dragan Andrzej
Published: October 2016

Casimir-Polder interaction arises from the vacuum fluctuations of quantum field that depend on spacetime curvature and thus is spacetime-dependent. Here we show how to use the resonance Casimir-Polder interaction (RCPI) between two entangled atoms to detect spacetime curvature. We find that the RCPI of two static entangled atoms in the de Sitter-invariant vacuum depends on the de Sitter spacetime curvature relevant to the temperature felt by the static observer. It is characterized by a 1/L2 power law decay when beyond a characteristic length scale associated to the breakdown of a local inertial description of the two-atom system. However, the RCPI of the same setup embedded in a thermal bath in the Minkowski universe is temperature-independent and is always characterized by a 1/L power law decay. Therefore, although a single static atom in the de Sitter-invariant vacuum responds as if it were bathed in thermal radiation in a Minkowski universe, using the distinct difference between RCPI of two entangled atoms one can in principle distinguish these two universes.
Epithelial cell-derived microvesicles activate macrophages and promote inflammation via microvesicle-containing microRNAs
Authors: Lee Heedoo , Zhang Duo , Zhu Ziwen , Dela Cruz Charles S. , Jin Yang
Published: October 2016

Intercellular communications between lung epithelial cells and alveolar macrophages play an essential role in host defense against acute lung injury. Hyperoxia-induced oxidative stress is an established model to mimic human lung injury. We show that after hyperoxia-associated oxidative stress, a large amount of extracellular vesicles (EVs) are detectable in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and culture medium of lung epithelial cells. Microvesicles (MVs), but not exosomes (Exos) or apoptotic bodies (Abs), are the main type of EVs found in the early stages after hyperoxia. Among all the MV compositions, small RNAs are altered the most significantly after hyperoxia-associated oxidative stress. We further confirmed that hyperoxia up-regulates the levels of certain specific miRNAs in the epithelial cell-derived MVs, such as the miR-320a and miR-221. Functionally, the hyperoxia-induced epithelial MVs promote macrophage activation in vitro and facilitate the recruitment of immunomodulatory cells in vivo detected in BALF. Using MV as a cargo, delivery of the specific miRNA-enriched epithelial MVs (miR-221 and/or miR-320a) also triggers macrophage-mediated pro-inflammatory effects. Collectively, epithelial cell-derived MVs promote macrophage-regulated lung inflammatory responses via MV-shuttling miRNAs.
Impact of feline AIM on the susceptibility of cats to renal disease
Authors: Sugisawa Ryoichi , Hiramoto Emiri , Matsuoka Shigeru , Iwai Satomi , Takai Ryosuke , Yamazaki Tomoko , Mori Nobuko , Okada Yuki , Takeda Naoki , Yamamura Ken-ichi , Arai Toshiro , Arai Satoko , Miyazaki Toru
Published: October 2016

Renal failure is one of the most important social problems for its incurability and high costs for patients’ health care. Through clarification of the underlying mechanism for the high susceptibility of cats to renal disease, we here demonstrates that the effective dissociation of serum AIM protein from IgM is necessary for the recovery from acute kidney injury (AKI). In cats, the AIM-IgM binding affinity is 1000-fold higher than that in mice, which is caused by the unique positively-charged amino-acid cluster present in feline AIM. Hence, feline AIM does not dissociate from IgM during AKI, abolishing its translocation into urine. This results in inefficient clearance of lumen-obstructing necrotic cell debris at proximal tubules, thereby impairing AKI recovery. Accordingly, mice whose AIM is replaced by feline AIM exhibit higher mortality by AKI than in wild-type mice. Recombinant AIM administration into the mice improves their renal function and survival. As insufficient recovery from AKI predisposes patients to chronic, end-stage renal disease, feline AIM may be involved crucially in the high mortality of cats due to renal disease. Our findings could be the basis of the development of novel AKI therapies targeting AIM-IgM dissociation, and may support renal function in cats and prolong their lives.
Single Crystal Diamond Needle as Point Electron Source
Authors: Kleshch Victor I. , Purcell Stephen T. , Obraztsov Alexander N.
Published: October 2016

Diamond has been considered to be one of the most attractive materials for cold-cathode applications during past two decades. However, its real application is hampered by the necessity to provide appropriate amount and transport of electrons to emitter surface which is usually achieved by using nanometer size or highly defective crystallites having much lower physical characteristics than the ideal diamond. Here, for the first time the use of single crystal diamond emitter with high aspect ratio as a point electron source is reported. Single crystal diamond needles were obtained by selective oxidation of polycrystalline diamond films produced by plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition. Field emission currents and total electron energy distributions were measured for individual diamond needles as functions of extraction voltage and temperature. The needles demonstrate current saturation phenomenon and sensitivity of emission to temperature. The analysis of the voltage drops measured via electron energy analyzer shows that the conduction is provided by the surface of the diamond needles and is governed by Poole-Frenkel transport mechanism with characteristic trap energy of 0.2–0.3 eV. The temperature-sensitive FE characteristics of the diamond needles are of great interest for production of the point electron beam sources and sensors for vacuum electronics.
Doxorubicin and resveratrol co-delivery nanoparticle to overcome doxorubicin resistance
Authors: Zhao Yuan , Huan Meng-lei , Liu Miao , Cheng Ying , Sun Yang , Cui Han , Liu Dao-zhou , Mei Qi-bing , Zhou Si-yuan
Published: October 2016

With the extensive application of doxorubicin (DOX), DOX resistance has become one of the main obstacles to the effective treatment of breast cancer. In this paper, DOX and resveratrol (RES) were co-encapsulated in a modified PLGA nanoparticle (NPS) to overcome the DOX resistance. CLSM results indicated that DOX and RES were simultaneously delivered into the nucleus of DOX-resistant human breast cancer cells by DOX/RES-loaded NPS. Consequently, DOX/RES-loaded NPS showed significant cytotoxicity on MDA-MB-231/ADR cells and MCF-7/ADR cells. Furthermore, DOX/RES-loaded NPS could overcome DOX resistance by inhibiting the expression of drug resistance-related protein such as P-gp, MRP-1 and BCRP, and induce apoptosis through down-regulating the expression of NF-κB and BCL-2. In tumor-bearing mice, DOX/RES-loaded NPS mainly delivered DOX and RES to tumor tissue. Compared with free DOX, DOX/RES-loaded NPS significantly inhibited the DOX-resistant tumor growth in tumor-bearing mice without causing significant systemic toxicity. In a word, DOX/RES-loaded NPS could overcome the DOX resistance and had the potential in the treatment of DOX-resistant breast cancer.
miRNA-145 inhibits VSMC proliferation by targeting CD40
Authors: Guo Xin , Li Dai , Chen Min , Chen Lei , Zhang Bikui , Wu Tian , Guo Ren
Published: October 2016

Recent studies have demonstrated functions of miR-145 in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) phenotypes and vascular diseases. In this study, we aim to determine whether CD40 is involved in miR-145 mediated switch of VSMC phenotypes. In cultured VSMCs, the effects of miR-145 and CD40 on TNF-α, TGF-β, and Homocysteine (Hcy) induced cell proliferation were evaluated by over-expression of miR-145 or by siRNA-mediated knockdown of CD40. We also used ultrasound imaging to explore the effect of miR-145 on carotid artery intima-media thickness (CIMT) in atherosclerotic cerebral infarction (ACI) patients. The results showed 50 ng/mL TNF-α, 5 ng/mL TGF-β, and 500 μmol/L Hcy significantly increased the expression of CD40, both at mRNA and protein levels, and also induced the proliferation of VSMCs. We found that over-expression of miR-145 significantly inhibited the expression of CD40 and the differentiation of VSMCs, and over-expression of miR-145 decreased IL-6 levels in VSMC supernatants. In ACI patients, the lower expression of miR-145 was associated with thicker CIMT and higher levels of plasma IL-6. Our results suggest that the miR-145/CD40 pathway is involved in regulating VSMC phenotypes in TNF-α, TGF-β, and Hcy induced VSMCs proliferation model. Targeting miR-145/CD40 might be a useful strategy for treating atherosclerosis.
Determination of copper in composite biomaterials by capillary electrophoresis: an UV-direct method based on in situ complex formation
Authors: Cattalini Juan P. , Mouriño Viviana S. , Lucangioli Silvia E.
Published: October 2016

This work describes the optimization and validation of an UV-direct capillary electrophoresis method for the analysis of copper ions in samples obtained from release studies of bone-tissue-engineering composite biomaterials.
Direct synthesis of CdSe nanocrystals within a conducting metallopolymer: toward improving charge transfer in hybrid nanomaterials
Authors: Nguyen Minh T. , Jones Richard A. , Holliday Bradley J.
Published: October 2016

CdSe nanocrystals were synthesized directly from Cd(ii) ions coordinated to the backbone of a conducting polymer. The resulting nanocrystals are in direct electronic communication with the polymer leading to effective charge transfer between the two semiconductors.
Ab initio thermodynamic study of the SnO2(110) surface in an O2 and NO environment: a fundamental understanding of the gas sensing mechanism for NO and NO2
Authors: Hong Song-Nam , Kye Yun-Hyok , Yu Chol-Jun , Jong Un-Gi , Ri Gum-Chol , Choe Chang-Song , Kim Kwang-Hui , Han Ju-Myong
Published: October 2016

We determine the phase diagram of the SnO2(110) surface in contact with an O2 and NO gas environment by means of an ab initio thermodynamic method.
Nitrosodisulfide [S2NO]−(perthionitrite) is a true intermediate during the “cross-talk” of nitrosyl and sulfide
Authors: Marcolongo Juan P. , Morzan Uriel N. , Zeida Ari , Scherlis Damián A. , Olabe José A.
Published: October 2016

QM-MM molecular dynamics combined with DFT analysis contribute identifying S2NO−in water and aprotic solvents through the UV-vis spectra, thus broadening the mechanistic picture of sulfide/disulfide signaling in biochemistry.
One-pot synthesis of folic acid encapsulated upconversion nanoscale metal organic frameworks for targeting, imaging and pH responsive drug release
Authors: Chowdhuri Angshuman Ray , Laha Dipranjan , Pal Srimanta , Karmakar Parimal , Sahu Sumanta Kumar
Published: October 2016

A folic acid conjugated upconversion nanoscale metal organic framework is developed as a smart material in one step for targeted anticancer drug delivery.
A review of stereochemical implications in the generation of secondary organic aerosol from isoprene oxidation
Authors: Cash James M. , Heal Mathew R. , Langford Ben , Drewer Julia
Published: October 2016

The atmospheric reactions leading to the generation of secondary organic aerosol (SOA) from the oxidation of isoprene are generally assumed to produce only racemic mixtures, but aspects of the chemical reactions suggest this may not be the case.
Rapid pre-symptomatic recognition of tristeza viral RNA by a novel fluorescent self-dimerized DNA–silver nanocluster probe
Authors: Shokri Ehsan , Hosseini Morteza , Faridbod Farnoush , Rahaie Mahdi
Published: October 2016

Citrus tristeza virus (CTV), a positive-strand RNA virus within the family of Closteroviridae, is distributed worldwide and causes one of the most economically important diseases of citrus.
Preparation and characterization of WO3 bonded imidazolium sulfonic acid chloride as a novel and green ionic liquid catalyst for the synthesis of adipic acid
Authors: Bhuyan Bishal , Paul Bappi , Vadivel Sethumathavan , Dhar Siddhartha Sankar
Published: October 2016

The work represents the synthesis of a novel WO3 bonded IL catalyst. It is used as a heterogeneous recoverable catalyst in the oxidation of cyclohexene to adipic acid.
In2Te3 thin films: a promising nonlinear optical material with tunable nonlinear absorption response
Authors: Wang Jun , Jin Feng , Cao Xinran , Cheng Shuai , Liu Chaochao , Yuan Yafei , Fang Jie , Zhao Haibin , Li Jing
Published: October 2016

A series of In2Te3 thin films with various thicknesses was prepared on fused quartz substrate using a radio-frequency magnetron sputtering method.
Two photochromic methylated nicotinohydrazide iodoargentate hybrids
Authors: Shen Junju , Wang Feng , Li Xiangxia , Yu Tanlai , Hao Pengfei , Fu Yunlong
Published: October 2016

Two methylated nicotinohydrazide iodoargentate hybrids have been synthesized via modulating organic/inorganic ratio, which exhibit rare structure-dependent electron-transfer (ET) photochromism.
Increment of the FRET efficiency between carbon dots and photosensitizers for enhanced photodynamic therapy
Authors: Yang Kun , Li Fan , Che Wangyuan , Hu Xiao , Liu Changjun , Tian Feng
Published: October 2016

Increment of FRET efficiency between CDs and Ce6 can significantly improve the therapeutic effects in photodynamic therapy.
Advances in the conversion of glucose and cellulose to 5-hydroxymethylfurfural over heterogeneous catalysts
Authors: Xue Zhimin , Ma Ming-Guo , Li Zhonghao , Mu Tiancheng
Published: October 2016

This review provides a holistic overview of the developed heterogeneous catalysts for HMF production from dehydration of glucose and cellulose in various solvent systems.
A closer look at two-photon absorption, absorption saturation and nonlinear refraction in gold nanoclusters
Authors: Olesiak-Banska Joanna , Waszkielewicz Magdalena , Matczyszyn Katarzyna , Samoc Marek
Published: October 2016

We report both the dispersion of nonlinear refraction and two-photon absorption of Au nanoclusters in a wide range of wavelengths.
The first computational study for the oxidative aromatization of pyrazolines and 1,4-dihydropyridines using 1,2,4-triazolinediones: an anomeric-based oxidation
Authors: Kiafar Mahya , Zolfigol Mohammad Ali , Yarie Meysam , Taherpour Avat(Arman)
Published: October 2016

The oxidative aromatization of 1,3,5-trisubstituted pyrazolines and 1,4-dihydropyridines using 1,2,4-triazolinediones as oxidizing agents was studied. It is confirmed that the “anomeric-based oxidation” passes through a concerted oxidationviahydrogen abstraction–addition.
Coordination-driven multilayer of phosvitin-polyphenol functional nanofibrous membranes: antioxidant and biomineralization applications for tissue engineering
Authors: Liang Hongshan , Zhou Bin , Li Jing , Pei Yaqiong , Li Bin
Published: October 2016

The layer-by-layer (LBL) deposition technique has been widely used to decorate the nanofibers formed from polymer pairs with complementary functional groups.
Direct synthesis of high-silica nano ZSM-5 aggregates with controllable mesoporosity and enhanced catalytic properties
Authors: Li Hongyao , Wang Yaquan , Meng Fanjun , Chen Hengbao , Sun Chao , Wang Shuhai
Published: October 2016

In the absence of additional mesoporous template, high-silica nano-sized ZSM-5 aggregates have been rapidly synthesized by solid-like state conversion.
Nanosupramolecular assembly of amphiphilic guest mediated by cucurbituril for doxorubicin delivery
Authors: Wu Xianjing , Zhang Ying-Ming , Liu Yu
Published: October 2016

A binary supramolecular nanoparticle was constructed through the complexation of cucurbit[6]uril with an amphiphilic polyamine by macrocycle-assisted aggregation strategy, which exhibited controlled drug loading and release behaviours.
Fast cavity surface temperature evolution in injection molding: control of cooling stage and final morphology analysis
Authors: Liparoti Sara , Sorrentino Andrea , Titomanlio Giuseppe
Published: October 2016

New isotropic morphologies are obtained by controlling pressure and temperature evolution.
Investigating the first hyperpolarizability of liquid carbon tetrachloride
Authors: Cardenuto Marcelo Hidalgo , Castet Frédéric , Champagne Benoît
Published: October 2016

Sequential QMMM calculations have been carried out to investigate the first hyperpolarizability of liquid CCl4.
Correction: Visible light responsive Fe–ZnS/nickel foam photocatalyst with enhanced photocatalytic activity and stability
Authors: Xue Yanei , Su Rongjun , Zhang Guangshan , Wang Qiao , Wang Peng , Zhang Wen , Wang Zhihong
Published: October 2016

Correction for ‘Visible light responsive Fe–ZnS/nickel foam photocatalyst with enhanced photocatalytic activity and stability’ by Yanei Xue et al., RSC Adv., 2016, 6, 93370–93373.
Free-standing NiV2S4nanosheet arrays on a 3D Ni framework via an anion exchange reaction as a novel electrode for asymmetric supercapacitor applications
Authors: Kumar Rudra , Rai Prabhakar , Sharma Ashutosh
Published: October 2016

Free standing NiV2S4nanosheet arrays have been synthesized by an anion exchange reaction using Ni3(VO4)2nanosheet arrays as a template for asymmetric supercapacitor applications.
A stability study of polymer solar cells using conjugated polymers with different donor or acceptor side chain patterns
Authors: Heckler Ilona M. , Kesters Jurgen , Defour Maxime , Penxten Huguette , Van Mele Bruno , Maes Wouter , Bundgaard Eva
Published: October 2016

The position and nature of side chains in the donor–acceptor copolymer were investigated in terms of stability in polymer solar cells.
HP-DO3A-based amphiphilic MRI contrast agents and relaxation enhancement through their assembly with polyelectrolytes
Authors: Zhu Qin , Yang Heng , Li Yuanyuan , Tian Yu , Wang Wei , Tang Weijun , Yuan Yuan , Hu Aiguo
Published: October 2016

HP-DO3A-based amphiphilic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents show electrostatic self-assembly ability with polyelectrolytes, good biocompatibility, and significant contrast enhancement in in vivo imaging.
A large-conductance calcium-regulated K+ channel in human dermal fibroblast mitochondria
Authors: Kicinska Anna , Augustynek Bartlomiej , Kulawiak Bogusz , Jarmuszkiewicz Wieslawa , Szewczyk Adam , Bednarczyk Piotr
Published: October 2016

Potassium channels have been found in the inner mitochondrial membrane of various cells. These channels regulate the mitochondrial membrane potential, respiration and production of reactive oxygen species. In the present study, we identified the activity of a mitochondrial large-conductance Ca2+-regulated potassium channel (mitoBKCa channel) in mitoplasts isolated from a primary human dermal fibroblast cell line. A potassium selective current was recorded with a mean conductance of 280 ± 2 pS in a symmetrical 150 mM KCl solution. The mitoBKCa channel was activated by the Ca2+ and by potassium channel opener NS1619. The channel activity was irreversibly inhibited by paxilline, a selective inhibitor of the BKCa channels. In isolated fibroblast mitochondria NS1619 depolarized the mitochondrial membrane potential, stimulated nonphosphorylating respiration and decreased superoxide formation. Additionally, the α- and β-subunits (predominantly the β3-form) of the BKCa channels were identified in fibroblast mitochondria. Our findings indicate, for the first time, the presence of a large-conductance Ca2+-regulated potassium channel in the inner mitochondrial membrane of human dermal fibroblasts.
Endothelial progenitor cells and hypertension: current concepts and future implications
Authors: Luo Shengyuan , Xia Wenhao , Chen Cong , Robinson Eric A. , Tao Jun
Published: October 2016

The discovery of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), a group of cells that play important roles in angiogenesis and the maintenance of vascular endothelial integrity, has led to considerable improvements in our understanding of the circulatory system and the regulatory mechanisms of vascular homoeostasis. Despite lingering disputes over where EPCs actually originate and how they facilitate angiogenesis, extensive research in the past decade has brought about significant advancements in this field of research, establishing EPCs as an essential element in the pathogenesis of various diseases. EPC and hypertensive disorders, especially essential hypertension (EH, also known as primary hypertension), represent one of the most appealing branches in this area of research. Chronic hypertension remains a major threat to public health, and the exact pathologic mechanisms of EH have never been fully elucidated. Is there a relationship between EPC and hypertension? If so, what is the nature of such relationship–is it mediated by blood pressure alterations, or other factors that lie in between? How can our current knowledge about EPCs be utilized to advance the prevention and clinical management of hypertension? In this review, we set out to answer these questions by summarizing the current concepts about EPC pathophysiology in the context of hypertension, while attempting to point out directions for future research on this subject.
A micro resonant charge sensor with enhanced sensitivity based on differential sensing scheme and leverage mechanisms
Authors: Chen Dongyang , Zhao Jiuxuan , Xu Zhonggui , Xie Jin
Published: October 2016

This letter reports a micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) resonant charge sensor with enhanced sensitivity based on differential sensing scheme and leverage mechanisms. The sensor comprises two symmetrically-distributed double-ended tuning fork (DETF) resonators, each of which connects with dual micro-leverage mechanisms. The micro-leverages amplify electrostatic force in opposite directions and cause differential frequency shift of the two resonators. Both the resonators show a similar trend in behaviors of electrical and mechanical nonlinearity. Effect of environment disturbance is suppressed by the differential sensing scheme. The measured sensitivity of the two resonators are 3.31×10-4 Hz/fC2 and 1.85×10-4 Hz/fC2 respectively, and an overall sensitivity for the resonant charge sensor is 5.16×10-4 Hz/fC2.
Pre-slaughtering factors related to bruises on cattle carcasses
Authors: Mendonça F. S. , Vaz R. Z. , Cardoso F. F. , Restle J. , Vaz F. N. , Pascoal L. L. , Reimann F. A. , Boligon A. A.
Published: October 2016

The objective of the study was to determine the factors related to beef cattle carcass bruises. Handling, transportation and unloading data from cattle purchased by a slaughterhouse in southern Brazil were obtained to assess their associations with carcass bruising (occurrence or not) and the number of bruises per load. In total, 4338 carcasses from 142 loads of cattle purchased by the company were assessed. The females were cull cows and the males were steers. Independent variables studied included sex (females or males), loading facilities (good, regular or poor), cattle handling (good, regular or poor), transport time from the farm to the slaughterhouse (hours), hauling-truck types, truck animal-load density (kg/m2) and slaughterhouse unloading time (min). For both traits studied (carcasses bruised and number of bruises per load), all of the independent variables showed a significant (P < 0.05) effect. Animal sex is the most important factor on carcass bruising and the number of bruises per load, with females showing 91% more bruises than males. Moderate load densities caused greater bruising than did low (<370 kg/m2) and high (>431 kg/m2) densities. In general, greater bruising was caused by longer transport and unloading times. Bruises were reduced by improving loading facilities from regular to good. Transportation in vehicles with higher load capacities (animal numbers) resulted in greater bruising. Therefore, special handling practices and personnel training measures should be undertaken to mitigate losses pre-slaughter, especially when handling female cattle, which are more vulnerable to developing carcass bruises, possibly due to higher cow reactivity.