bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MicroRNA roles in signalling during lactation: an insight from differential expression, time course and pathway analyses of deep sequence data
Authors: Do Duy N. , Li Ran , Dudemaine Pier-Luc , Ibeagha-Awemu Eveline M.
Published: March 2017

The study examined microRNA (miRNA) expression and regulatory patterns during an entire bovine lactation cycle. Total RNA from milk fat samples collected at the lactogenesis (LAC, day1 [D1] and D7), galactopoiesis (GAL, D30, D70, D130, D170 and D230) and involution (INV, D290 and when milk production dropped to 5 kg/day) stages from 9 cows was used for miRNA sequencing. A total of 475 known and 238 novel miRNAs were identified. Fifteen abundantly expressed miRNAs across lactation stages play regulatory roles in basic metabolic, cellular and immunological functions. About 344, 366 and 209 miRNAs were significantly differentially expressed (DE) between GAL and LAC, INV and GAL, and INV and LAC stages, respectively. MiR-29b/miR-363 and miR-874/miR-6254 are important mediators for transition signals from LAC to GAL and from GAL to INV, respectively. Moreover, 58 miRNAs were dynamically DE in all lactation stages and 19 miRNAs were significantly time-dependently DE throughout lactation. Relevant signalling pathways for transition between lactation stages are involved in apoptosis (PTEN and SAPK/JNK), intracellular signalling (protein kinase A, TGF-β and ERK5), cell cycle regulation (STAT3), cytokines, hormones and growth factors (prolactin, growth hormone and glucocorticoid receptor). Overall, our data suggest diverse, temporal and physiological signal-dependent regulatory and mediator functions for miRNAs during lactation.
Terbium Ion Doping in Ca3Co4O9: A Step towards High-Performance Thermoelectric Materials
Authors: Saini Shrikant , Yaddanapudi Haritha Sree , Tian Kun , Yin Yinong , Magginetti David , Tiwari Ashutosh
Published: March 2017

The potential of thermoelectric materials to generate electricity from the waste heat can play a key role in achieving a global sustainable energy future. In order to proceed in this direction, it is essential to have thermoelectric materials that are environmentally friendly and exhibit high figure of merit, ZT. Oxide thermoelectric materials are considered ideal for such applications. High thermoelectric performance has been reported in single crystals of Ca3Co4O9. However, for large scale applications single crystals are not suitable and it is essential to develop high-performance polycrystalline thermoelectric materials. In polycrystalline form, Ca3Co4O9 is known to exhibit much weaker thermoelectric response than in single crystal form. Here, we report the observation of enhanced thermoelectric response in polycrystalline Ca3Co4O9 on doping Tb ions in the material. Polycrystalline Ca3−xTbxCo4O9 (x = 0.0–0.7) samples were prepared by a solid-state reaction technique. Samples were thoroughly characterized using several state of the art techniques including XRD, TEM, SEM and XPS. Temperature dependent Seebeck coefficient, electrical resistivity and thermal conductivity measurements were performed. A record ZT of 0.74 at 800 K was observed for Tb doped Ca3Co4O9 which is the highest value observed till date in any polycrystalline sample of this system.
Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli pathogenesis: role of Long polar fimbriae in Peyer’s patches interactions
Authors: Cordonnier Charlotte , Etienne-Mesmin Lucie , Thévenot Jonathan , Rougeron Amandine , Rénier Sandra , Chassaing Benoit , Darfeuille-Michaud Arlette , Barnich Nicolas , Blanquet-Diot Stéphanie , Livrelli Valérie
Published: March 2017

Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) are major food-borne pathogens whose survival and virulence in the human digestive tract remain unclear owing to paucity of relevant models. EHEC interact with the follicle-associated epithelium of Peyer’s patches of the distal ileum and translocate across the intestinal epithelium via M-cells, but the underlying molecular mechanisms are still unknown. Here, we investigated the involvement of Long polar fimbriae (Lpf) in EHEC pathogenesis. Of the 236 strains tested, a significant association was observed between the presence of lpf operons and pathogenicity. In sophisticated in vitro models of the human gastro-intestinal tract, lpf expression was induced during transit through the simulated stomach and small intestine, but not in the colonic compartment. To investigate the involvement of Lpf in EHEC pathogenesis, lpf isogenic mutants and their relative trans-complemented strains were generated. Translocation across M-cells, interactions with murine ileal biopsies containing Peyer’s patches and the number of hemorrhagic lesions were significantly reduced with the lpf mutants compared to the wild-type strain. Complementation of lpf mutants fully restored the wild-type phenotypes. Our results indicate that (i) EHEC might colonize the terminal ileum at the early stages of infection, (ii) Lpf are an important player in the interactions with Peyer’s patches and M-cells, and could contribute to intestinal colonization.
DEK is required for homologous recombination repair of DNA breaks
Authors: Smith Eric A. , Gole Boris , Willis Nicholas A. , Soria Rebeca , Starnes Linda M. , Krumpelbeck Eric F. , Jegga Anil G. , Ali Abdullah M. , Guo Haihong , Meetei Amom R. , Andreassen Paul R. , Kappes Ferdinand , Vinnedge Lisa M. Privette , Daniel Jeremy A. , Scully Ralph , Wiesmüller Lisa , Wells Susanne I.
Published: March 2017

DEK is a highly conserved chromatin-bound protein whose upregulation across cancer types correlates with genotoxic therapy resistance. Loss of DEK induces genome instability and sensitizes cells to DNA double strand breaks (DSBs), suggesting defects in DNA repair. While these DEK-deficiency phenotypes were thought to arise from a moderate attenuation of non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) repair, the role of DEK in DNA repair remains incompletely understood. We present new evidence demonstrating the observed decrease in NHEJ is insufficient to impact immunoglobulin class switching in DEK knockout mice. Furthermore, DEK knockout cells were sensitive to apoptosis with NHEJ inhibition. Thus, we hypothesized DEK plays additional roles in homologous recombination (HR). Using episomal and integrated reporters, we demonstrate that HR repair of conventional DSBs is severely compromised in DEK-deficient cells. To define responsible mechanisms, we tested the role of DEK in the HR repair cascade. DEK-deficient cells were impaired for γH2AX phosphorylation and attenuated for RAD51 filament formation. Additionally, DEK formed a complex with RAD51, but not BRCA1, suggesting a potential role regarding RAD51 filament formation, stability, or function. These findings define DEK as an important and multifunctional mediator of HR, and establish a synthetic lethal relationship between DEK loss and NHEJ inhibition.
Maternally expressed NLRP2 links the subcortical maternal complex (SCMC) to fertility, embryogenesis and epigenetic reprogramming
Authors: Mahadevan Sangeetha , Sathappan Varsha , Utama Budi , Lorenzo Isabel , Kaskar Khalied , Van den Veyver Ignatia B.
Published: March 2017

Mammalian parental genomes contribute differently to early embryonic development. Before activation of the zygotic genome, the maternal genome provides all transcripts and proteins required for the transition from a highly specialized oocyte to a pluripotent embryo. Depletion of these maternally-encoded transcripts frequently results in failure of preimplantation embryonic development, but their functions in this process are incompletely understood. We found that female mice lacking NLRP2 are subfertile because of early embryonic loss and the production of fewer offspring that have a wide array of developmental phenotypes and abnormal DNA methylation at imprinted loci. By demonstrating that NLRP2 is a member of the subcortical maternal complex (SCMC), an essential cytoplasmic complex in oocytes and preimplantation embryos with poorly understood function, we identified imprinted postzygotic DNA methylation maintenance, likely by directing subcellular localization of proteins involved in this process, such as DNMT1, as a new crucial role of the SCMC for mammalian reproduction.
Tuning quantum measurements to control chaos
Authors: Eastman Jessica K. , Hope Joseph J. , Carvalho André R. R.
Published: March 2017

Environment-induced decoherence has long been recognised as being of crucial importance in the study of chaos in quantum systems. In particular, the exact form and strength of the system-environment interaction play a major role in the quantum-to-classical transition of chaotic systems. In this work we focus on the effect of varying monitoring strategies, i.e. for a given decoherence model and a fixed environmental coupling, there is still freedom on how to monitor a quantum system. We show here that there is a region between the deep quantum regime and the classical limit where the choice of the monitoring parameter allows one to control the complex behaviour of the system, leading to either the emergence or suppression of chaos. Our work shows that this is a result from the interplay between quantum interference effects induced by the nonlinear dynamics and the effectiveness of the decoherence for different measurement schemes.
HSP70-1 is required for interleukin-5-induced angiogenic responses through eNOS pathway
Authors: Park Sung Lyea , Chung Tae-Wook , Kim Sangtae , Hwang Byungdoo , Kim Jung Min , Lee Hwan Myung , Cha Hee-Jae , Seo Yoonhee , Choe Soo Young , Ha Ki-Tae , Kim Gonhyung , Yun Seok-Joong , Park Sung-Soo , Choi Yung Hyun , Kim Bo Kyung , Kim Won-Tae , Cha Eun-Jong , Patterson Cam , Kim Wun-Jae , Moon Sung-Kwon
Published: March 2017

We report a pivotal role for IL-5 as an angiogenic activator. IL-5 increased proliferation, migration and colony tube formation in HUVECs associated with the phosphorylation of ERK and AKT/eNOS, and promoted microvessel sprouting from an angiogenesis animal model. The angiogenic effects were confirmed in IL-5-deficient mice and addition of IL-5 antibody. HSP70-1 was identified via expression profiling following IL-5 stimulation. A siRNA knockdown of HSP70-1 suppressed angiogenic responses and eNOS phosphorylation induced by IL-5. HSP70-1 overexpression enhanced IL-5-induced angiogenic responses. In addition, IL-5-induced neo-vascular formation was verified in both HSP70-1 knockout and HSP70-1 transgenic mice. Furthermore, transcription factor AP-1 was a main factor in IL-5-induced HSP70-1 in response to ERK and AKT signaling pathway. Angiogenic responses induced by VEGF had no effect in either HSP70-1 siRNA in vitro or HSP70-1 knockout mice. IL-5-induced angiogenic responses depended on the binding of IL-5Rα. Our data demonstrate that binding of IL-5 to IL-5Rα receptors enhances angiogenic responses by stimulating the expression of HSP70-1 via the eNOS signaling pathway.
Scavenger receptor collectin placenta 1 is a novel receptor involved in the uptake of myelin by phagocytes
Authors: Bogie Jeroen F. J. , Mailleux Jo , Wouters Elien , Jorissen Winde , Grajchen Elien , Vanmol Jasmine , Wouters Kristiaan , Hellings Niels , van Horssen Jack , Vanmierlo Tim , Hendriks Jerome J. A.
Published: March 2017

Myelin-containing macrophages and microglia are the most abundant immune cells in active multiple sclerosis (MS) lesions. Our recent transcriptomic analysis demonstrated that collectin placenta 1 (CL-P1) is one of the most potently induced genes in macrophages after uptake of myelin. CL-P1 is a type II transmembrane protein with both a collagen-like and carbohydrate recognition domain, which plays a key role in host defense. In this study we sought to determine the dynamics of CL-P1 expression on myelin-containing phagocytes and define the role that it plays in MS lesion development. We show that myelin uptake increases the cell surface expression of CL-P1 by mouse and human macrophages, but not by primary mouse microglia in vitro. In active demyelinating MS lesions, CL-P1 immunoreactivity was localized to perivascular and parenchymal myelin-laden phagocytes. Finally, we demonstrate that CL-P1 is involved in myelin internalization as knockdown of CL-P1 markedly reduced myelin uptake. Collectively, our data indicate that CL-P1 is a novel receptor involved in myelin uptake by phagocytes and likely plays a role in MS lesion development.
Bacterial secretion system skews the fate of Legionella-containing vacuoles towards LC3-associated phagocytosis
Authors: Hubber Andree , Kubori Tomoko , Coban Cevayir , Matsuzawa Takeshi , Ogawa Michinaga , Kawabata Tsuyoshi , Yoshimori Tamotsu , Nagai Hiroki
Published: March 2017

The evolutionarily conserved processes of endosome-lysosome maturation and macroautophagy are established mechanisms that limit survival of intracellular bacteria. Similarly, another emerging mechanism is LC3-associated phagocytosis (LAP). Here we report that an intracellular vacuolar pathogen,Legionella dumoffii, is specifically targeted by LAP over classical endocytic maturation and macroautophagy pathways. Upon infection, the majority ofL. dumoffiiresides in ER-like vacuoles and replicate within this niche, which involves inhibition of classical endosomal maturation. The establishment of the replicative niche requires the bacterial Dot/Icm type IV secretion system (T4SS). Intriguingly, the remaining subset ofL. dumoffiitransiently acquires LC3 toL. dumoffii-containing vacuoles in a Dot/Icm T4SS-dependent manner. The LC3-decorated vacuoles are bound by an apparently undamaged single membrane, and fail to associate with the molecules implicated in selective autophagy, such as ubiquitin or adaptors. The process requires toll-like receptor 2, Rubicon, diacylglycerol signaling and downstream NADPH oxidases, whereas ULK1 kinase is dispensable. Together, we have discovered an intracellular pathogen, the survival of which in infected cells is limited predominantly by LAP. The results suggest thatL. dumoffiiis a valuable model organism for examining the mechanistic details of LAP, particularly induced by bacterial infection.
The Active Side of Stereopsis: Fixation Strategy and Adaptation to Natural Environments
Authors: Gibaldi Agostino , Canessa Andrea , Sabatini Silvio P.
Published: March 2017

Depth perception in near viewing strongly relies on the interpretation of binocular retinal disparity to obtain stereopsis. Statistical regularities of retinal disparities have been claimed to greatly impact on the neural mechanisms that underlie binocular vision, both to facilitate perceptual decisions and to reduce computational load. In this paper, we designed a novel and unconventional approach in order to assess the role of fixation strategy in conditioning the statistics of retinal disparity. We integrated accurate realistic three-dimensional models of natural scenes with binocular eye movement recording, to obtain accurate ground-truth statistics of retinal disparity experienced by a subject in near viewing. Our results evidence how the organization of human binocular visual system is finely adapted to the disparity statistics characterizing actual fixations, thus revealing a novel role of the active fixation strategy over the binocular visual functionality. This suggests an ecological explanation for the intrinsic preference of stereopsis for a close central object surrounded by a far background, as an early binocular aspect of the figure-ground segregation process.
Association between liver function and metabolic syndrome in Chinese men and women
Authors: Wang Sen , Zhang Jie , Zhu Li , Song Linlin , Meng Zhaowei , Jia Qiang , Li Xue , Liu Na , Hu Tianpeng , Zhou Pingping , Zhang Qing , Liu Li , Song Kun , Jia Qiyu
Published: March 2017

Metabolic syndrome (MS) could be associated with liver function. Our study aimed to investigate the association between liver function and MS in a large cohort of Chinese men and women. We enrolled 32,768 ostensibly healthy participants. The associations between liver function and MS of both genders were analyzed separately after dividing total bilirubin (TBIL), gamma glutamyltransferase (GGT), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) into quartiles. Young males had significantly higher MS prevalence than females, yet after menopause, females had higher MS prevalence. We used TBIL, GGT and ALT quartiles as categorical variables in binary logistic regression models. Significantly decreased MS risks were demonstrated in TBIL quartiles 2 to 4 for males, and quartiles 3 to 4 for females. As to GGT and ALT, significantly increased MS risks were shown in high quartiles for both genders. Aging also resulted in significantly higher MS risks in both genders except for young females. This study displayed close associations between liver function and MS, which were influenced by gender and age. A high TBIL level had protective effect against MS, while high GGT and ALT levels were risk factors for MS. It is meaningful that liver function is used as clinical risk predictors for MS.
Daytime warming has stronger negative effects on soil nematodes than night-time warming
Authors: Yan Xiumin , Wang Kehong , Song Lihong , Wang Xuefeng , Wu Donghui
Published: March 2017

Warming of the climate system is unequivocal, that is, stronger warming during night-time than during daytime. Here we focus on how soil nematodes respond to the current asymmetric warming. A field infrared heating experiment was performed in the western of the Songnen Plain, Northeast China. Three warming modes, i.e. daytime warming, night-time warming and diurnal warming, were taken to perform the asymmetric warming condition. Our results showed that the daytime and diurnal warming treatment significantly decreased soil nematodes density, and night-time warming treatment marginally affected the density. The response of bacterivorous nematode and fungivorous nematode to experimental warming showed the same trend with the total density. Redundancy analysis revealed an opposite effect of soil moisture and soil temperature, and the most important of soil moisture and temperature in night-time among the measured environment factors, affecting soil nematode community. Our findings suggested that daily minimum temperature and warming induced drying are most important factors affecting soil nematode community under the current global asymmetric warming.
Double knockout of Bax and Bak from kidney proximal tubules reduces unilateral urethral obstruction associated apoptosis and renal interstitial fibrosis
Authors: Mei Shuqin , Li Lin , Wei Qingqing , Hao Jielu , Su Yunchao , Mei Changlin , Dong Zheng
Published: March 2017

Interstitial fibrosis, a common pathological feature of chronic kidney diseases, is often associated with apoptosis in renal tissues. To determine the associated apoptotic pathway and its role in renal interstitial fibrosis, we established a mouse model in which Bax and Bak, two critical genes in the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis, were deleted specifically from kidney proximal tubules and used this model to examine renal apoptosis and interstitial fibrosis following unilateral urethral obstruction (UUO). It was shown that double knockout of Bax and Bak from proximal tubules attenuated renal tubular cell apoptosis and suppressed renal interstitial fibrosis in UUO. The results indicate that the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis contributes significantly to the tubular apoptosis and renal interstitial fibrosis in kidney diseases.
Vertebrate Cryptochromes are Vestigial Flavoproteins
Authors: Kutta Roger J. , Archipowa Nataliya , Johannissen Linus O. , Jones Alex R. , Scrutton Nigel S.
Published: March 2017

All cryptochromes are currently classified as flavoproteins. In animals their best-described role is as components of the circadian clock. This circadian function is variable, and can be either light-dependent or -independent; the molecular origin of this difference is unknown. Type I animal cryptochromes are photoreceptors that entrain an organism’s clock to its environment, whereas Type II (including mammals) regulate circadian timing in a light-independent manner. Here, we reveal that, in contrast to Type I, Type II animal cryptochromes lack the structural features to securely bind the photoactive flavin cofactor. We provide a molecular basis for the distinct circadian roles of different animal cryptochromes, which also has significant implications for the putative role of Type II cryptochromes in animal photomagnetoreception.
In vivo evaluation of Mg–6Zn and titanium alloys on collagen metabolism in the healing of intestinal anastomosis
Authors: Wang Xiao-hu , Ni Jian-shu , Cao Nai-long , Yu Song , Chen Yi-gang , Zhang Shao-xiang , Gu Bao-jun , Yan Jun
Published: March 2017

There is a great clinical need for biodegradable materials, which were used as pins of circular staplers, for gastrointestinal reconstruction in medicine. In this work we compared the effects of the Mg–6Zn and the titanium alloys on collagen metabolism in the healing of the intestinal tract in vivo. The study included Sprague-Dawley rats and their effect was compared on rat’s intestinal tract, using serum magnesium, radiology, and immunohistochemistry in vivo. Radiographic and scanning electron microscope evaluation confirmed the degradation by Mg–6Zn alloy during the implantation period. Biochemical measurements including serum magnesium, creatinine, blood urea nitrogen and glutamic–pyruvic–transaminase proved that degradation of Mg–6Zn alloy showed no impact on serum magnesium and the function of other important organs. Superior to titanium alloy, Mg–6Zn alloy enhanced the expression of collagen I/III and relatively suppressed the expression of MMP-1/-13 in the healing tissues, leading to more mature collagen formation at the site of anastomosis. In conclusion, Mg–6Zn alloy performed better than titanium alloy on collagen metabolism and promoted the healing of intestinal anastomosis. Hence, Mg-6Zn may be a promising candidate for use of stapler pins for intestinal reconstruction in the clinically.
Introduction: General Aspects of the Chemical Biology of Glycoproteins
Authors: Chaffey Patrick K. , Guan Xiaoyang , Wang Lai-Xi , Tan Zhongping
Published: March 2017

This chapter is meant to serve as an introduction to the remainder of the book by providing general background on the chemical biology of glycoproteins as well as a brief review of the chapters that follow. The purpose here is to introduce some basic concepts common to many forms of glycosylation for those readers who may be unfamiliar with the field. We begin with a discussion of the strategies and methods used to study protein glycosylation. During the overview, an effort is made to highlight a few relevant aspects of chemical glycobiology, including glycoprotein biosynthesis and a brief description of the synthesis and function of glycoproteins. Finally, we have a summary of the contributions from chemical biology over the years. It is our hope that, after reading this introductory chapter, the reader will have a broad view of the chemical glycobiology field as it currently stands and a deeper appreciation for some of the unique ideas that chemical biology brings to the field.
Chemical Synthesis and Engineering of N-Linked Glycoproteins
Authors: Li Hongxing , Dao Yuankun , Dong Suwei
Published: March 2017

Understanding the function of protein glycosylation is an essential but thus far fairly rudimentary area of study, due to the incredible diversity of glycans that can be covalently attached to the peptide backbone. Access to homogeneous samples of glycoproteins is required to rigorously characterize glycan functions. Currently, chemical methods are a valid approach to obtain single glycoforms of a protein of interest. This chapter presents an overview of recent studies on the de novo synthesis of N-glycosylated proteins as homogeneous glycoforms, and focuses on examples where the glycosylation reactions, with both natural and unnatural linkages, were accomplished via chemical methods. Accordingly, the related key methodological developments and advances in this emerging field are highlighted. Furthermore, several examples of chemical biology studies using chemically synthesized homogeneous glycoproteins are briefly reviewed. The concluding section summarizes the accomplishments and current challenges in chemical synthesis of N-glycoproteins, and provides a brief outlook for future directions.
Chemoenzymatic Synthesis of Low-Molecular-Weight Heparin and Heparan Sulfate
Authors: Zhang Xing , Linhardt Robert J.
Published: March 2017

Heparin and low-molecular-weight heparins are specialized forms of the heparan sulfate glycosaminoglycan that are used therapeutically as anticoagulant drugs. These anionic polysaccharides and their oligosaccharide derivatives are generally prepared by extraction from animal tissues, purified, and then enzymatically or chemically treated before being used as biochemical reagents or drugs. Based on our understanding of glycosaminoglycan biosynthesis, a number of biosynthetic enzymes have been identified, cloned, and expressed in Escherichia coli. Using these enzymes, two strategies for the chemoenzymatic synthesis have been devised. In the first, a polysaccharide backbone, prepared through fermentation, is chemoenzymatically modified to yield a mixture of heparin molecules similar to the natural product. The second strategy involves the enzyme-catalyzed iterative elongation of an acceptor glycan with nucleotide sugar donors that are then chemoenzymatically modified to form single pure heparin or heparan sulfate oligosaccharides. These products of chemoenzymatic synthesis are useful for developing structure–activity relationships and as potential new therapeutic entities. The general approaches used and future prospects for chemoenzymatic glycosaminoglycan synthesis are discussed.
Synthetic Studies of GPI-Anchored Peptides, Glycopeptides, and Proteins
Authors: Gao Jian , Guo Zhongwu
Published: March 2017

Glycosylphosphatidylinositols (GPIs) are complex glycolipids, which anchor surface proteins and glycoproteins onto the cell membrane. To study the biological functions of GPI-anchored proteins and glycoproteins, it is essential to have access to these biomolecules in structurally well-defined forms and sufficient quantity. Accordingly, several synthetic strategies for these molecules based on regioselective chemical condensation, native chemical ligation (NCL), and enzymatic ligation of synthetic GPI anchors with peptides, glycopeptides and proteins have been established. In the meantime, effective strategies have also been developed for GPI-anchored proteomics analysis by using GPI-binding bacterial toxin or cell-surface GPI-anchor metabolic engineering techniques to simplify GPI-anchored protein pull-down. These studies have greatly facilitated the access to and understanding of GPI-anchored proteins. This chapter reviews the significant progress in these areas, as well as in the biosynthesis of GPIs and GPI-anchored proteins.
Chemical Approaches to Image Protein Glycosylation
Authors: Lin Wei , Gao Ling , Qin Ke , Chen Xing
Published: March 2017

Protein glycosylation plays essential roles in regulating physiological activities of proteins. Visualization of protein glycans in living system is invaluable for elucidating the biological functions of protein glycosylation. However, it has proven challenging to develop tools for molecular imaging of glycans. This chapter highlights recently developed chemical tools that enable visualization of protein glycosylation. The development of these chemical methods is introduced in the contexts of important protein glycosylation and imaging tools for visualizing glycans in general.
Selective Chemical Glycosylation of Therapeutic Proteins
Authors: Zhou Qun
Published: March 2017

Carbohydrate is one of the major macromolecules in nature. Glycosylation (covalent attachment of carbohydrate) occurs in macromolecules, including nucleic acids, proteins and lipids. Glycans play important roles in many biological processes, such as inflammation, immune reactions, and intracellular transport. To improve understanding of these essential roles, many therapeutic proteins have been in vitro glycosylated to improve their pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. The conjugation of hydrophilic polymers, including polyethylene glycol or polysaccharides, to native glycans or amino acid residues in the protein often resulted in increased serum half-life, reduced immunogenicity or enhanced stability. Glycan modification using either enzymatic or chemical conjugation methods also facilitated protein targeting to disease-affected tissues. In addition, the glycans from the well-conserved glycosylation site at Asn-297 in a monoclonal antibody provide the sites for selective conjugation of either anticancer drugs or diagnostic agents. Taken together, selective chemical glycosylation has been applied as a unique approach in generation of protein therapeutics with an improved therapeutic index for multiple diseases. Some glycosylated proteins are being used in patient treatment or are under clinical investigation.
Facile construction of mitochondria-targeting nanoparticles for enhanced phototherapeutic effects
Authors: Liu Yi , Li Heping , Xie Jin , Zhou Mengxue , Huang Hui , Lu Huiru , Chai Zhifang , Chen Jun , Hu Yi
Published: March 2017

An illustration of the preparation of ICG/rPAA@SWCNT nanoparticles which target mitochondria for amplifying photodynamic therapeutic effects.
Enzyme-induced dual-network ε-poly-l-lysine-based hydrogels with robust self-healing and antibacterial performance
Authors: Wang Rui , Li Qing , Chi Bo , Wang Xiaoqiao , Xu Zheng , Xu Zongqi , Chen Su , Xu Hong
Published: March 2017

A new enzyme-induced strategy is provided to construct dual-network self-healing hydrogels with both highly self-healing efficient (95%) and superior antibacterial properties, indicating a potential for application in biomedical fields.
Ni-Catalyzed regio- and stereoselective addition of arylboronic acids to terminal alkynes with a directing group tether
Authors: Hari Babu Madala , Ranjith Kumar Gadi , Kant Ruchir , Sridhar Reddy Maddi
Published: March 2017

Addition of arylboronic acids to directing group tethered acetylenes in a regio and stereoselective manner using an inexpensive catalytic system is achieved for the first time to access highly sought after allyl/homoallyl alcohol/amine units.
Unraveling the surface state and composition of highly selective nanocrystalline Ni–Cu alloy catalysts for hydrodeoxygenation of HMF
Authors: Luo Jing , Monai Matteo , Wang Cong , Lee Jennifer D. , Duchoň Tomáš , Dvořák Filip , Matolín Vladimír , Murray Christopher B. , Fornasiero Paolo , Gorte Raymond J.
Published: March 2017

Surface composition of the highly selective Ni–Cu catalysts was characterized by NAP-XPS under the conditions relevant to the HDO reaction.
A combined theoretical and experimental study on the mechanism of spiro-adamantyl-1,2-dioxetanone decomposition
Authors: Farahani Pooria , Oliveira Marcelo A. , Galván Ignacio Fdez. , Baader Wilhelm J.
Published: March 2017

Our study on the unimolecular decomposition of a relatively stable 1,2-dioxetanone derivative, model compound for bioluminescence processes, indicates the existence of different reaction pathways for ground and excited state formation.
Thin film transistors based on two dimensional graphene and graphene/semiconductor heterojunctions
Authors: Zhu Zhongcheng , Murtaza Imran , Meng Hong , Huang Wei
Published: March 2017

During the past few years, two-dimensional (2D) layered materials have emerged as the most fundamental building blocks of a wide variety of optoelectronic devices.
Laccase-catalyzed green synthesis and cytotoxic activity of novel pyrimidobenzothiazoles and catechol thioethers
Authors: Abdel-Mohsen H. T. , Conrad J. , Harms K. , Nohr D. , Beifuss U.
Published: March 2017

Laccase-catalyzed green reaction between catechols and 2-thioxopyrimidin-4-ones delivers novel pyrimidobenzothiazoles and catechol thioethers with antiproliferative activities against HepG2 cell line.
Enhancement of thermal stability for perovskite solar cells through cesium doping
Authors: Niu Guangda , Li Wenzhe , Li Jiangwei , Liang Xingyao , Wang Liduo
Published: March 2017

Organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite solar cells are found to be sensitive to moisture, oxygen, UV light, light soaking, heat, electric field, etc.
A simple 3D cryogel co-culture system used to study the role of CAFs in EMT of MDA-MB-231 cells
Authors: Zhang Ge , Song Xiaoping , Mei Jie , Ye Genlan , Wang Leyu , Yu Lei , Xing Malcolm M. Q. , Qiu Xiaozhong
Published: March 2017

Development of a 3D co-culture system for the study of the role of CAFs in the EMT process of MDA-MB-231 cells in vitro and in vivo.
A comparison of colorimetric assays detecting hydrogen peroxide in leaf extracts
Authors: Mátai Anikó , Hideg Éva
Published: March 2017

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a central molecule in plant stress responses as a potential oxidizing agent or a signal molecule, depending on its localization and cellular concentrations. The work compares the versatility of three simple and rapid, potentially high through-put photometric assays to detect this reactive oxygen species in leaf extracts.
Supramolecular electrode assemblies for bioelectrochemistry
Authors: Laftsoglou Theodoros , Jeuken Lars J. C.
Published: March 2017

Supramolecular approaches in bioelectrochemistry have boosted enzyme loading on electrodes and shaped biocompatible environments for enzymes.
Extraction of minor actinides, lanthanides and other fission products by silica-immobilized BTBP/BTPhen ligands
Authors: Afsar Ashfaq , Distler Petr , Harwood Laurence M. , John Jan , Westwood James
Published: March 2017

Novel BTBP [bis-(1,2,4-triazin-3-yl)-2,2′-bipyridine]/BTPhen [bis-(1,2,4-triazin-3-yl)-1,10-phenanthroline] functionalized silica gels have been developed to extract minor actinides, lanthanides and other fission products.
Enantioselective construction of quaternary tetrahydropyridines by palladium-catalyzed vinylborylation of alkenes
Authors: Jiang Zhiwei , Hou Longlei , Ni Chunjie , Chen Jiangfei , Wang Dong , Tong Xiaofeng
Published: March 2017

The Pd(0)-catalyzed asymmetric vinylborylation of (Z)-1-iodo-dienes with B2pin2 is reported, which provides access to 3,3-disubstituted tetrahydropyridine with excellent enantioselectivity.
Preexisting domain motions underlie protonation-dependent structural transitions of the P-type Ca2+-ATPase
Authors: Fernández-de Gortari Eli , Espinoza-Fonseca L. Michel
Published: March 2017

We propose that the control of the hierarchical structure and amplitude of preexisting domain motions underlies protonation-dependent structural transitions of the calcium pump.
Practical applications of supramolecular chemistry
Authors: Kolesnichenko Igor V. , Anslyn Eric V.
Published: March 2017

Supramolecular chemistry has branched into many different subfields, finding practical applications in sensing, molecular imaging, metal extraction, and drug delivery.
Photofunctional multinuclear rhenium(i) diimine carbonyl complexes
Authors: Rohacova Jana , Ishitani Osamu
Published: March 2017

In this review, we summarize the synthesis, photophysical properties and applications of a wide variety of multinuclear complexes consisting of Re(i)-diimine-carbonyl units.
Hexahalorhenate(iv) salts of metal oxazolidine nitroxides
Authors: Pedersen Anders H. , Geoghegan Blaise L. , Nichol Gary S. , Lupton David W. , Murray Keith. S. , Martínez-Lillo José , Gass Ian A. , Brechin Euan K.
Published: March 2017

Coordination compounds of the type [MII(L˙)2][ReIVX6] display a variety of different intra- and inter-molecular magnetic interactions.
Molecular adaptations underlying the beneficial effects of hydroxytyrosol in the pathogenic alterations induced by a high-fat diet in mouse liver: PPAR-α and Nrf2 activation, and NF-κB down-regulation
Authors: Valenzuela Rodrigo , Illesca Paola , Echeverría Francisca , Espinosa Alejandra , Rincón-Cervera Miguel Ángel , Ortiz Macarena , Hernandez-Rodas María Catalina , Valenzuela Alfonso , Videla Luis A.
Published: March 2017

Hydroxytyrosol supplementation reduced metabolic alterations induced in livers of high fat diet-fed mice.
Ameliorative effects of pepsin-digested chicken liver hydrolysates on development of alcoholic fatty livers in mice
Authors: Lin Yi-Ling , Tai Szu-Yun , Chen Jr-Wei , Chou Chung-Hsi , Fu Shih-Guei , Chen Yi-Chen
Published: March 2017

With developments in economics and increasing work loads, alcohol abuse becomes more and more severe, leading to occurrences of alcoholic liver disease (ALD).
Post-synthetic modification of tryptophan containing peptides via NIS mediation
Authors: Gu Chen-Xue , Bi Qing-Wei , Gao Chu-Kun , Wen Jian , Zhao Zhi-Gang , Chen Zili
Published: March 2017

A new method to provide modified tryptophan peptides through NIS mediated N2-selective coupling of a Trp unit with 1,2,3-triazoles, of which, the preliminary spectral properties were studied.
Asymmetric synthesis of vinylogous β-amino acids and their incorporation into mixed backbone oligomers
Authors: Wu Hao , An Hongchan , Mo Shuting (Cynthia) , Kodadek Thomas
Published: March 2017

Vinylogous β-amino acids are constructed using a concise, enantioselective route and shown to be superior building blocks for the construction of chiral oligomers.
Organic molecules with propeller structures for efficient photoacoustic imaging and photothermal ablation of cancer cells
Authors: Cai Xiaolei , Liu Jie , Liew Weng Heng , Duan Yukun , Geng Junlong , Thakor Nitish , Yao Kui , Liao Lun-De , Liu Bin
Published: March 2017

We report organic nanoparticles for efficient photoacoustic imaging and photothermal therapy, based on the small molecule BTPETTQ which has a propeller structure and a donor–acceptor–donor configuration.
Methodology and applications of the hexadehydro-Diels–Alder (HDDA) reaction
Authors: Diamond Oliver J. , Marder Todd B.
Published: March 2017

Hexadehydro-Diels–Alder (HDDA) reactions between alkynes and 1,3-diynes readily generate highly reactive and synthetically useful arynes.
The degradation of azo dye with different cathode and anode structures in biofilm electrode reactors
Authors: Cao Xian , Gu Feng , Wang Hui , Fang Zhou , Li Xian-ning
Published: March 2017

In this study, biofilm electrode reactors (BERs) were constructed to degrade the azo dye Reactive Brilliant Red (RBR) X-3B.
A reusable surface-quaternized nanocellulose-based hybrid cryogel loaded with N-doped TiO2for self-integrated adsorption/photo-degradation of methyl orange dye
Authors: Chen Yufei , Liu Hongzhi , Geng Biyao , Ru Jing , Cheng Chen , Zhao Ying , Wang Likui
Published: March 2017

Self-integrated adsorption/photo-degradation of methyl orange dye.
A bioinspired heterogeneous catalyst based on the model of the manganese-dependent dioxygenase for selective oxidation using dioxygen
Authors: Chaignon Jérémy , Gourgues Marie , Khrouz Lhoussain , Moliner Nicolás , Bonneviot Laurent , Fache Fabienne , Castro Isabel , Albela Belén
Published: March 2017

A hybrid bioinspired material with manganese(ii) complexes grafted on the surface of a mesostructured porous silica is investigated.
Theoretical investigation on the effect of ancillary ligand modification for highly efficient phosphorescent platinum(ii) complex design
Authors: Fan Hong-Wei , Bai Fu-Quan , Zhang Zhi-Xiang , Wang Yu , Qu Ze-Xing , Zhong Rong-Lin , Zhang Hong-Xing
Published: March 2017

Reasonable modification of ancillary ligands for Pt(ii) complexes can effectively improve the quantum efficiency and strengthen the rigidity of luminescent materials in organic light-emitting diodes.
Dynamic contact angle on a reconstructive polymer surface by segregation
Authors: Inutsuka Manabu , Tanoue Hirokazu , Yamada Norifumi L. , Ito Kohzo , Yokoyama Hideaki
Published: March 2017

A peculiar time evolution of contact angle of water on reconstructive polymer surface was analyzed.
Plasmonic nanoparticles in chemical analysis
Authors: Krajczewski Jan , Kołątaj Karol , Kudelski Andrzej
Published: March 2017

In this review various analytical techniques utilising the plasmonic properties of silver and gold nanoparticles have been presented.
Urolithin C, a gut metabolite of ellagic acid, induces apoptosis in PC12 cells through a mitochondria-mediated pathway
Authors: Yin Peipei , Zhang Jianwei , Yan Linlin , Yang Lingguang , Sun Liwei , Shi Lingling , Ma Chao , Liu Yujun
Published: March 2017

Urolithin C includes apoptosis in PC12 cells through a mitochondria-mediated pathway.
Enhancing performance of inverted planar perovskite solar cells by argon plasma post-treatment on PEDOT:PSS
Authors: Yu Miao , Huang Xiaona , Wang Shuying , Chen Ben , Zhang Yang , Chen Bo , Liu Mingzhen , Zhang Wanli , Xiong Jie
Published: March 2017

The performance of perovskite solar cells could be improved significantly by the method of argon plasma post-treatment on PEDOT:PSS.
Degradation of one-side fully-chlorinated 1,2,3,4-tetrachloronaphthalene over Fe–Al composite oxides and its hypothesized reaction mechanism
Authors: Liu Yalu , Lu Huijie , Pan Wenxiao , Li Qianqian , Su Guijin , Zheng Minghui , Gao Lirong , Liu Guorui , Liu Wenbin
Published: March 2017

Generated PeCNs to MoCNs congeners during the degradation of CN-27 over Fe–Al mixed composite oxides suggest the occurrence of successive hydrodechlorination and side chlorination pathways.
Highly efficient red emission and multiple energy transfer properties of Dy3+/Mn4+co-doped Ca14Zn6Ga10O35phosphors
Authors: Zhou Yiyang , Zhao Weiren , Chen Junhua , Liao Zifeng
Published: March 2017

Novel Dy3+/Mn4+co-doped Ca14Zn6Ga10O35phosphors have been synthesized by a solid state reaction technique.
Sorghum core-derived carbon sheets as electrodes for a lithium-ion capacitor
Authors: Xu Xiaonan , Cui Yongpeng , Shi Jing , Liu Wei , Chen Shougang , Wang Xin , Wang Huanlei
Published: March 2017

A lithium-ion capacitor with high energy and high power is fabricated using sorghum core-derived carbon sheets as both electrodes.
Selective single molecule nanopore sensing of proteins using DNA aptamer-functionalised gold nanoparticles
Authors: Lin Xiaoyan , Ivanov Aleksandar P. , Edel Joshua B.
Published: March 2017

DNA aptamer-modified gold nanoparticles that act as a molecular carrier through a nanopore sensor facilitate the selective detection of target proteins in mixed analyte populations with enhanced signal-to-noise ratio and event rate.
Broad substrate tolerance of tubulin tyrosine ligase enables one-step site-specific enzymatic protein labeling
Authors: Schumacher Dominik , Lemke Oliver , Helma Jonas , Gerszonowicz Lena , Waller Verena , Stoschek Tina , Durkin Patrick M. , Budisa Nediljko , Leonhardt Heinrich , Keller Bettina G. , Hackenberger Christian P. R.
Published: March 2017

The broad substrate tolerance of tubulin tyrosine ligase enables its wide applicability for protein functionalization.
Simple preparation of highly active water splitting FTO/BiVO4 photoanode modified with tri-layer water oxidation catalysts
Authors: Mohamed Eman A. , Zahran Zaki N. , Naruta Yoshinori
Published: March 2017

EMI triflate assisted in producing a highly mechanically stable FTO/BiVO4 photoanode modified with tri-layer WOCs for efficient solar-driven water oxidation.
Redox chemistry of CaMnO3 and Ca0.8Sr0.2MnO3 oxygen storage perovskites
Authors: Bulfin B. , Vieten J. , Starr D. E. , Azarpira A. , Zachäus C. , Hävecker M. , Skorupska K. , Schmücker M. , Roeb M. , Sattler C.
Published: March 2017

Investigation of the redox chemistry and thermodynamics of the perovskites CaMnO3 and Ca0.8Sr0.2MnO3via TGA analysis and in situ XPS and NEXAFS.
Constructing a novel strategy for carbon-doped TiO2 multiple-phase nanocomposites toward superior electrochemical performance for lithium ion batteries and the hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Li Yueming , Shen Jinran , Li Junjie , Liu Shimin , Yu Dongli , Xu Rongchen , Fu Wen-Fu , Lv Xiao-Jun
Published: March 2017

Carbon-doped TiO2 multiple-phase nanocomposites show not only superior lithium storage ability but also high electrochemical performance for the HER.
Optical nanoprobes for biomedical applications: shining a light on upconverting and near-infrared emitting nanoparticles for imaging, thermal sensing, and photodynamic therapy
Authors: Hemmer E. , Acosta-Mora P. , Méndez-Ramos J. , Fischer S.
Published: March 2017

Shining a light on spectrally converting lanthanide (Ln3+)-doped nanoparticles: progress, trends, and challenges in Ln3+-nanoprobes for near-infrared bioimaging, nanothermometry, and photodynamic therapy.
Large gap two dimensional topological insulators: the bilayer triangular lattice TlM (M = N, P, As, Sb)
Authors: Zhou Pan , Xue Lin , Sun Lizhong
Published: March 2017

Based on density functional theory and Berry curvature calculations, we predict that the p–p band inversion type quantum spin Hall effect (QSHE) can be realized in a series of two dimensional (2D) bilayer honeycomb TlMs (M = N, P, As, Sb), which can be effectively equivalent to a bilayer triangular lattice for low energy electrons.
Simple aliphatic oximes as nonconventional luminogens with aggregation-induced emission characteristics
Authors: Zhang Qin , Mao Qiuyun , Shang Cong , Chen Ya-Nan , Peng Xin , Tan Hongwei , Wang Huiliang
Published: March 2017

Small aliphatic oximes produced by the oxidation of primary and secondary amines are confirmed to be AIE luminogens.
Changes in Swallowing After Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion With Instrumentation: A Presurgical Versus Postsurgical Videofluoroscopic Comparison
Authors: Muss Lydia , Wilmskoetter Janina , Richter Kerstin , Fix Constanze , Stanschus Soenke , Pitzen Tobias , Drumm Joerg , Molfenter Sonja
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to explore the impact of anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) with anterior instrumentation on swallowing function and physiology as measured on videofluoroscopic swallowing studies.

Method

We retrospectively analyzed both functional measures (penetration-aspiration, residue) and physiological/anatomical measures (hyoid excursion, posterior pharyngeal wall thickness) in a series of 17 patients (8 men, 9 women, mean age 54 years). These measures were extracted from calibrated 5-ml boluses of thin radio-opaque liquids on both pre-ACDF and post-ACDF videofluoroscopies, thus controlling for individual variation and protocol variation.

Results

After ACDF surgery, we found significant within-subject worsening of Penetration-Aspiration Scale (Rosenbek, Robbins, Roecker, Coyle, & Wood, 1996) scores, vallecular (but not piriform sinus) residue, superior (but not anterior) hyoid excursion, and posterior pharyngeal wall thickness. Results are discussed in the context of previous literature.

Conclusions

ACDF surgery can affect both physiological/anatomical and functional measures of swallowing. Future research should expand to other biomechanical and temporal variables, as well as greater bolus volumes and a wider array of viscosities and textures.
A theoretical and experimental study of fast lower bounds for the two-dimensional bin packing problem
Authors: Serairi Mehdi , Haouari Mohamed
Published: March 2017

We address the two-dimensional bin packing problem with fixed orientation. This problem requires packing a set of small rectangular items into a minimum number of standard two-dimensional bins. It is a notoriously intractable combinatorial optimization problem and has numerous applications in packing and cutting. The contribution of this paper is twofold. First, we propose a comprehensive theoretical analysis of lower bounds and we elucidate dominance relationships. We show that a previously presented dominance result is incorrect. Second, we present the results of an extensive computational study that was carried out, on a large set of 500 benchmark instances, to assess the empirical performance of the lower bounds. We found that the so-called Carlier-Clautiaux-Moukrim lower bounds exhibits an excellent relative performance and yields the tightest value for all of the benchmark instances.