bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of autophagy inducers in epithelial cells carrying the ΔF508 mutation of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator CFTR
Authors: Zhang Shaoyi , Stoll Gautier , Pedro José Manuel Bravo San , Sica Valentina , Sauvat Allan , Obrist Florine , Kepp Oliver , Li Yousheng , Maiuri Luigi , Zamzami Naoufal , Kroemer Guido
Published: February 2018

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) due to the ΔF508 mutation of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) can be treated with a combination of cysteamine and Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). Since ECGC is not a clinically approved drug, we attempted to identify other compounds that might favourably interact with cysteamine to induce autophagy and thus rescuing the function of ΔF508 CFTR as a chloride channel in the plasma membrane. For this, we screened a compound library composed by chemically diverse autophagy inducers for their ability to enhance autophagic flux in the presence of cysteamine. We identified the antiarrhythmic Ca2+ channel blocker amiodarone, as an FDA-approved drug having the property to cooperate with cysteamine to stimulate autophagy in an additive manner. Amiodarone promoted the re-expression of ΔF508 CFTR protein in the plasma membrane of respiratory epithelial cells. Hence, amiodarone might be yet another compound for the etiological therapy of CF in patients bearing the ΔF508 CFTR mutation.
ROS-independent ER stress-mediated NRF2 activation promotes warburg effect to maintain stemness-associated properties of cancer-initiating cells
Authors: Chang Ching-Wen , Chen Yu-Syuan , Tsay Yeou-Guang , Han Chia-Li , Chen Yu-Ju , Yang Cheng-Chieh , Hung Kai-Feng , Lin Chao-Hsiung , Huang Tsung-Yen , Kao Shou-Yen , Lee Te-Chang , Lo Jeng-Fan
Published: February 2018

Cancer-initiating cells (CICs) are responsible for tumor initiation, progression, and therapeutic resistance; moreover, redox homeostasis is important in regulating cancer stemness. Previously, we have identified that cancer cells containing low intracellular reactive oxygen species levels (ROSLow cells) display enhanced features of CICs. However, the specific metabolic signatures of CICs remain unclear and are required for further characterization by systemic screenings. Herein, we first showed CICs mainly relying on glycolysis that was important for the maintenance of stemness properties. Next, we revealed that NRF2, a master regulator of antioxidants, was able to maintain low intracellular ROS levels of CICs, even though in the absence of oxidative stress. We further characterized that NRF2 activation was required for the maintenance of CICs properties. Of ROSLow cells, NRF2 activation not only directly activates the transcription of genes encoding glycolytic enzymes but also inhibited the conversion of pyruvate to acetyl-CoA by directly activating pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 1 (PDK1) to lead to inhibition of tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle; therefore, to promote Warburg effect. A positive regulatory ROS-independent ER stress pathway (GRP78/p-PERK/NRF2 signaling) was identified to mediate the metabolic shift (Warburg effect) and stemness of CICs. Lastly, co-expression of p-PERK and p-NRF2 was significantly associated with the clinical outcome. Our data show that NRF2 acting as a central node in the maintenance of low ROS levels and stemness associated properties of the CICs, which is significantly associated with the clinical outcome, but independent from ROS stress. Future treatments by inhibiting NRF2 activation may exhibit great potential in targeting CICs.
Neuroglobin boosts axon regeneration during ischemic reperfusion via p38 binding and activation depending on oxygen signal
Authors: Xiong Xin Xin , Pan Feng , Chen Ruo Qiao , Hu Dian Xing , Qiu Xin Yao , Li Chun Yang , Xie Xiao Qiang , Tian Bo , Chen Xiao Qian
Published: February 2018

Cerebral ischemia causes severe cell death or injury including axon breakdown or retraction in the brain. Axon regeneration is crucial for the functional recovery of injured neurons or brains after ischemia/reperfusion (I/R); however, this process has been proved extremely difficult in adult brains and there is still no effective therapy for it. Here we reported that neuroglobin (Ngb), a novel oxygen-binding or sensor protein existing predominantly in neurons or brains, functions as a driving factor for axon regeneration during I/R. Ngb was upregulated and accumulated in growth cones of ischemic neurons in primary cultures, rat, and human brains, correlating positively to the elevation of axon-regeneration markers GAP43, neurofilament-200, and Tau-1. Ngb overexpression promoted while Ngb knockdown suppressed axon regeneration as well as GAP43 expression in neurons during oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/Re). By using specific pharmacological inhibitors, we identified p38 MAPK as the major downstream player of Ngb-induced axon regeneration during OGD/Re. Mechanistically, Ngb directly bound to and activated p38 in neurons upon OGD/Re. Serial truncation and point mutation of Ngb revealed that the 7–105 aa fragment of Ngb was required and the oxygen-binding site (His64) of Ngb was the major regulatory site for its p38 interaction/activation. Finally, administration of exogenous TAT-Ngb peptides significantly enhanced axon regeneration in cultured neurons upon OGD/Re. Taken together, Ngb promotes axon regeneration via O2-Ngb-p38-GAP43 signaling during I/R. This novel mechanism suggests potential therapeutic applications of Ngb for ischemic stroke and other related axonopathy.
Publisher Correction: A Co3O4-CDots-C3N4 three component electrocatalyst design concept for efficient and tunable CO2 reduction to syngas
Authors: Guo Sijie , Zhao Siqi , Wu Xiuqin , Li Hao , Zhou Yunjie , Zhu Cheng , Yang Nianjun , Jiang Xin , Gao Jin , Bai Liang , Liu Yang , Lifshitz Yeshayahu , Lee Shuit-Tong , Kang Zhenhui
Published: February 2018

The original HTML version of this Article omitted to list Yeshayahu Lifshitz as a corresponding author and incorrectly listed Shuit-Tong Lee as a corresponding author.

Correspondingly, the original PDF version of this Article incorrectly stated that “Correspondence and requests for materials should be addressed to X.J. (email: xin.jiang@uni-siegen.de), or to Y.L. (email: yangl@suda.edu.cn), or to S.-T.L. (email: shayli@technion.ac.il), or to Z.K. (email: zhkang@suda.edu.cn)”, instead of the correct “Correspondence and requests for materials should be addressed to X.J. (email: xin.jiang@uni-siegen.de), or to Y. Liu (email: yangl@suda.edu.cn), or to Y. Lifshitz (email: shayli@technion.ac.il), or to Z.K. (email: zhkang@suda.edu.cn)”.

This has now been corrected in the PDF and HTML versions of the Article.
Neuropathic MORC2 mutations perturb GHKL ATPase dimerization dynamics and epigenetic silencing by multiple structural mechanisms
Authors: Douse Christopher H. , Bloor Stuart , Liu Yangci , Shamin Maria , Tchasovnikarova Iva A. , Timms Richard T. , Lehner Paul J. , Modis Yorgo
Published: February 2018

Missense mutations in MORC2 cause neuropathies including spinal muscular atrophy and Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease. We recently identified MORC2 as an effector of epigenetic silencing by the human silencing hub (HUSH). Here we report the biochemical and cellular activities of MORC2 variants, alongside crystal structures of wild-type and neuropathic forms of a human MORC2 fragment comprising the GHKL-type ATPase module and CW-type zinc finger. This fragment dimerizes upon binding ATP and contains a hinged, functionally critical coiled-coil insertion absent in other GHKL ATPases. We find that dimerization and DNA binding of the MORC2 ATPase module transduce HUSH-dependent silencing. Disease mutations change the dynamics of dimerization by distinct structural mechanisms: destabilizing the ATPase-CW module, trapping the ATP lid, or perturbing the dimer interface. These defects lead to the modulation of HUSH function, thus providing a molecular basis for understanding MORC2-associated neuropathies.
Physician-initiated clinical study of limb ulcers treated with a functional peptide, SR-0379: from discovery to a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Nakagami Hironori , Sugimoto Ken , Ishikawa Takahiro , Fujimoto Taku , Yamaoka Toshifumi , Hayashi Misa , Kiyohara Eiji , Ando Hiroshi , Terabe Yuta , Takami Yoichi , Yamamoto Koichi , Takeya Yasushi , Takemoto Minoru , Koshizaka Masaya , Ebihara Tamotsu , Nakamura Ayumi , Nishikawa Mitsunori , Yao Xiang Jing , Hanaoka Hideki , Katayama Ichiro , Yokote Koutaro , Rakugi Hiromi
Published: February 2018

SR-0379 is a functional peptide that has wound healing effect with anti-microbial action, making it an ideal drug to prevent infection. To evaluate the safety, efficacy, and pharmacokinetics of SR-0379 for the treatment of leg ulcers, a physician-initiated, phase I/IIa, first-in-patient clinical study was designed. A multi-center, double-blind, randomized clinical study was conducted from October 2015 to September 2016. The inclusion criteria for leg ulcers were (1) diabetes or critical limb ischemia and (2) wound size <6 cm in diameter. Twelve patients were randomized into four groups and administered 0.02%, 0.1%, or 0.5% SR-0379 or placebo treatment on skin ulcers once per day for 28 days. Efficiency was evaluated by determining the rate of wound size reduction as a primary endpoint at 4 weeks after the first treatment compared with the pre-treatment wound size. As a secondary endpoint, the DESIGN-R score index, time to wound closure, and the 50% wound size reduction ratio were also evaluated. The safety of SR-0379 was evaluated during the study period. In the evaluation of efficiency, the skin ulcer reduction rates at the last evaluation were 44.73% for the 0.02% SR-0379 group, 68.25% for the 0.1% group, and 71.61% for the 0.5% group, compared with 9.95% for the placebo group. Six adverse events were reported in four patients, of which one occurred in the placebo group, and causal relationships to study drugs were denied for all six events. Treatment with SR-0379 for chronic leg ulcers was safe, well tolerated, and effective.
Changed frontal pole gene expression suggest altered interplay between neurotransmitter, developmental, and inflammatory pathways in schizophrenia
Authors: Scarr Elizabeth , Udawela Madhara , Dean Brian
Published: February 2018

Schizophrenia (Sz) probably occurs after genetically susceptible individuals encounter a deleterious environmental factor that triggers epigenetic mechanisms to change CNS gene expression. To determine if omnibus changes in CNS gene expression are present in Sz, we compared mRNA levels in the frontal pole (Brodmann’s area (BA) 10), the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (BA 9) and cingulate cortex (BA 33) from 15 subjects with Sz and 15 controls using the Affymetrix™ Human Exon 1.0 ST Array. Differences in mRNA levels (±≥20%;p < 0.01) were identified (JMP Genomics 5.1) and used to predict pathways and gene x gene interactions that would be affected by the changes in gene expression using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis. There was significant variation in mRNA levels with diagnoses for 566 genes in BA 10, 65 genes in BA 9 and 40 genes in BA 33. In Sz, there was an over-representation of genes with changed expression involved in inflammation and development in BA 10, cell morphology in BA 9 and amino acid metabolism and small molecule biochemistry in BA 33. Using 94 genes with altered levels of expression in BA 10 from subjects with Sz, it was possible to construct an interactome of proven direct gene x gene interactions that was enriched for genes in inflammatory, developmental, oestrogen, serotonergic, cholinergic and NRG1 regulated pathways. Our data shows complex, regionally specific changes in cortical gene expression in Sz that are predicted to affect homeostasis between biochemical pathways already proposed to be important in the pathophysiology of the disorder.
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) signature is inversely associated with T-cell infiltration in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
Authors: Chae Young Kwang , Chang Sangmin , Ko Taeyeong , Anker Jonathan , Agte Sarita , Iams Wade , Choi Wooyoung M. , Lee Kyoungmin , Cruz Marcelo
Published: February 2018

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is able to drive metastasis during progression of multiple cancer types, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). As resistance to immunotherapy has been associated with EMT and immune exclusion in melanoma, it is important to understand alterations to T-cell infiltration and the tumor microenvironment during EMT in lung adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. We conducted an integrated analysis of the immune landscape in NSCLCs through EMT scores derived from a previously established 16 gene signature of canonical EMT markers. EMT was associated with exclusion of immune cells critical in the immune response to cancer, with significantly lower infiltration of CD4 T-cells in lung adenocarcinoma and CD4/CD8 T-cells in squamous cell carcinoma. EMT was also associated with increased expression of multiple immunosuppressive cytokines, including IL-10 and TGF-β. Furthermore, overexpression of targetable immune checkpoints, such as CTLA-4 and TIM-3 were associated with EMT in both NSCLCs. An association may exist between immune exclusion and EMT in NSCLC. Further investigation is merited as its mechanism is not completely understood and a better understanding of this association could lead to the development of biomarkers that could accurately predict response to immunotherapy.
Gold nanoparticle-based rapid detection and isolation of cells using ligand-receptor chemistry
Authors: Rauta Pradipta Ranjan , Hallur Pavan M. , Chaubey Aditya
Published: February 2018

Identification and isolation of low-frequency cells of interest from a heterogeneous cell mixture is an important aspect of many diagnostic applications (including enumeration of circulating tumor cells) and is integral to various assays in (cancer) biology. Current techniques typically require expensive instrumentation and are not amenable to high throughput. Here, we demonstrate a simple and effective platform for cell detection and isolation using gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) conjugated with hyaluronic acid (HA) i.e. Au-PEG-HA NPs. The proposed platform exploits ligand-receptor chemistry to detect/isolate cells with high specificity and efficiency. When the Au-PEG-HA NPs come in contact with cells that express CD44 (the receptor for HA), a clear colorimetric change occurs (along with an accompanying SPR peak shift from 521 nm to 559 nm) in the solution due to NPs-cell interaction. This clearly discernible, colorimetric change can be leveraged by point-of-care devices employed in diagnostic applications. Finally, we show that we can successfully isolate viable cells from a heterogeneous cell population (including from human blood samples) with high specificity, which can be used in further downstream applications. The developed NPs-based platform can be a convenient and cost-efficient alternative for diagnostic applications and for cell isolation or sorting in research laboratories.
Impaired airway mucociliary function reduces antigen-specific IgA immune response to immunization with a claudin-4-targeting nasal vaccine in mice
Authors: Suzuki Hidehiko , Nagatake Takahiro , Nasu Ayaka , Lan Huangwenxian , Ikegami Koji , Setou Mitsutoshi , Hamazaki Yoko , Kiyono Hiroshi , Yagi Kiyohito , Kondoh Masuo , Kunisawa Jun
Published: February 2018

Vaccine delivery is an essential element for the development of mucosal vaccine, but it remains to be investigated how physical barriers such as mucus and cilia affect vaccine delivery efficacy. Previously, we reported that C-terminal fragment ofClostridium perfringensenterotoxin (C-CPE) targeted claudin-4, which is expressed by the epithelium associated with nasopharynx-associated lymphoid tissue (NALT), and could be effective as a nasal vaccine delivery. Mice lacking tubulin tyrosine ligase-like family, member 1 (Ttll1-KO mice) showed mucus accumulation in nasal cavity due to the impaired motility of respiratory cilia.Ttll1-KO mice nasally immunized with C-CPE fused to pneumococcal surface protein A (PspA-C-CPE) showed reduced PspA-specific nasal IgA responses, impaired germinal center formation, and decreased germinal center B-cells and follicular helper T cells in the NALT. Although there was no change in the expression of claudin-4 in the NALT epithelium inTtll1-KO mice, the epithelium was covered by a dense mucus that prevented the binding of PspA-C-CPE to NALT. However, administration of expectorant N-acetylcysteine removed the mucus and rescued the PspA-specific nasal IgA response. These results show that the accumulation of mucus caused by impaired respiratory cilia function is an interfering factor in the C-CPE-based claudin-4-targeting nasal vaccine.
Hydrophilic fluorinated molecules for spectral 19F MRI
Authors: Tanifum Eric A. , Patel Chandreshkumar , Liaw Matthew E. , Pautler Robia G. , Annapragada Ananth V.
Published: February 2018

Fluorine-19 (19F) Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is an emerging modality for molecular imaging and cell tracking. The hydrophobicity of current exogenous probes, perfluorocarbons (PFCs) and perfluoropolyethers (PFPEs), limits the formulation options available for in vivo applications. Hydrophilic probes permit more formulation flexibility. Further, the broad Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) chemical shift range of organofluorine species enables multiple probes with unique 19F MR signatures for simultaneous interrogation of distinct molecular targets in vivo. We report herein a flexible approach to stable liposomal formulations of hydrophilic fluorinated molecules (each bearing numerous magnetically equivalent 19F atoms), with 19F encapsulation of up to 22.7 mg/mL and a per particle load of 3.6 × 106 19F atoms. Using a combination of such probes, we demonstrate, with no chemical shift artifacts, the simultaneous imaging of multiple targets within a given target volume by spectral 19F MRI.
Unbalanced inflammatory reaction could increase tissue destruction and worsen skin infectious diseases – a comparative study of leishmaniasis and sporotrichosis
Authors: Morgado F. N. , de Carvalho L. M. V. , Leite-Silva J. , Seba A. J. , Pimentel M. I. F. , Fagundes A. , Madeira M. F. , Lyra M. R. , Oliveira M. M. , Schubach A. O. , Conceição-Silva F.
Published: February 2018

The clinical presentations of skin diseases produced by different pathogens, as American tegumentary leishmaniasis (ATL) and sporotrichosis can be similar and possibly influenced by the skin immune system (SIS). The aim of the study was to understand the underlying mechanisms of skin inflammation produced by different pathogens. We used immunohistochemistry to analyze 96 patients: a- localized cutaneous leishmaniasis (LCL-ATL); b- sporotrichoid cutaneous leishmaniasis (SCL-ATL); c-lymphocutaneous (LC-SP); d- fixed (F-SP) sporotrichosis. LCL-ATL and SCL-ATL had a significantly higher percentage of CD8, FasL and NOS2 than sporotrichosis. In contrast, LC-SP had a substantially higher percentage of CD4, BCl2 and neutrophils than ATL lesions. These results indicated some differences in the profile of thein situimmune response suggesting that SIS is a complex, adaptable system capable of different responses to intracellular or extracellular pathogens. However, regardless of the etiological agents, the inflammatory reaction and clinical manifestations can be similar. SCL-ATL and LC-SP presented similarities in both clinical presentation andin situinflammatory profile (CD3, CD22, neutrophils, macrophages). The clinical presentation of ATL and sporotrichosis could be explained by a combination of factors both of the host SIS and the etiological agent. The unbalanced host parasite relationship could result in atypical manifestations of skin disease.
Highly diastereoselective oxa-[3+3] cyclization with C,N-cyclic azomethine imines via the copper-catalyzed aerobic oxygenated CC bond of indoles
Authors: Yu Lemao , Zhong Yuan , Yu Jicong , Gan Lu , Cai Zhengjun , Wang Rui , Jiang Xianxing
Published: February 2018

Herein, a copper-catalyzed highly diastereoselective aerobic oxygenated [3+3] cyclization of 3-substituted indoles with C,N-cyclic azomethine imines using oxygen as the sole oxidant under mild conditions has been developed.
An ESIPT fluorescent probe and a nanofiber platform for selective and sensitive detection of a nerve gas mimic
Authors: Chen Liyan , Oh Hyerim , Wu Di , Kim Myung Hwa , Yoon Juyoung
Published: February 2018

An ESIPT based fluorescent probe, containing a hydroxyphenyl-benzothiazole fluorophore and an oxime reaction site, serves as a selective probe for a nerve gas mimic, diethyl cyanophosphonate (DECP), in solutions and the gas phase.
Enhanced upconversion luminescence and controllable phase/shape of NaYF4:Yb/Er crystals through Cu2+ ion doping
Authors: Du Kaimin , Xu Xia , Yao Shuang , Lei Pengpeng , Dong Lile , Zhang Manli , Feng Jing , Zhang Hongjie
Published: February 2018

The crystal phase/shape and upconversion luminescence properties of NaYF4:Yb/Er crystals could be fine-tuned through doping with Cu2+ ions.
Strain heterogeneity in sheared colloids revealed by neutron scattering
Authors: Chen Kevin , Wu Bin , He Lilin , Smith Gregory S. , Do Changwoo , Huang Guan-Rong , Zhang Gaibo , Wang Yangyang
Published: February 2018

Small-angle neutron scattering experiments reveal that the microscopic strain of sheared colloids is highly heterogeneous at the particle level.
Au26: a case of fluxionality/co-existence
Authors: Joshi Krati , Krishnamurty Sailaja
Published: February 2018

BOMD simulations are performed on experimentally identified conformations of the fluxional Au26 cluster at finite temperature. Comprehensive analysis of structural, electronic and thermal properties indicates that the highest energy tubular cage conformation (till 500 K) outperforms the ground state conformation (till 400 K) in terms of thermal stability.
Chemical disorder driven reentrant spin cluster glass state formation and associated magnetocaloric properties of Nd2Ni0.94Si2.94
Authors: Pakhira Santanu , Mazumdar Chandan , Ranganathan R. , Giri S.
Published: February 2018

We report the synthesis of a new ternary intermetallic compound Nd2Ni0.94Si2.94 that exhibits large magnetocaloric effect in the presence of reentrant spin cluster state formation.
Structure–composition trends in multicomponent borosilicate-based glasses deduced from molecular dynamics simulations with improved B–O and P–O force fields
Authors: Stevensson Baltzar , Yu Yang , Edén Mattias
Published: February 2018

Improved B–O and P–O force fields provide accurate molecular dynamics simulations of multicomponent glasses.
Calorimetric study of water's two glass transitions in the presence of LiCl
Authors: Ruiz Guadalupe N. , Amann-Winkel Katrin , Bove Livia E. , Corti Horacio R. , Loerting Thomas
Published: February 2018

Based on calorimetric data we show that water's two distinct glass transitions can be accessed up to the endpoint in dilute LiCl solutions. By contrast, in pure water both endpoints are masked.
“Solvent-in-salt” systems for design of new materials in chemistry, biology and energy research
Authors: Azov Vladimir A. , Egorova Ksenia S. , Seitkalieva Marina M. , Kashin Alexey S. , Ananikov Valentine P.
Published: February 2018

“Solvent-in-salt” (SIS) systems with a very high salt content have recently emerged as potent tools for solution of highly relevant chemical problems.
Wearable energy sources based on 2D materials
Authors: Yi Fang , Ren Huaying , Shan Jingyuan , Sun Xiao , Wei Di , Liu Zhongfan
Published: February 2018

This review provides the most recent advances in wearable energy sources based on 2D materials, and highlights the crucial roles 2D materials play in the wearable energy sources.
The emerging era of supramolecular polymeric binders in silicon anodes
Authors: Kwon Tae-woo , Choi Jang Wook , Coskun Ali
Published: February 2018

Polymeric binders with supramolecular inter-chain interactions can effectively accommodate the volume expansion of silicon (Si) anodes and thus extend their cycle lives markedly, offering an insight in binder design for emerging electrodes that undergo large volume expansion.
A palladium complex immobilized onto a magnetic GO-MnFe2O4 surface as an effective and recyclable catalyst for the reduction of p-nitrophenol
Authors: Karami Kazem , Mousavi Neda Sadat
Published: February 2018

A recyclable magnetic palladium complex catalyst immobilized onto a GO-MnFe2O4 surface was synthesized and characterized for the reduction of p-nitrophenol.
Revisiting the carrageenan controversy: do we really understand the digestive fate and safety of carrageenan in our foods?
Authors: David Shlomit , Shani Levi Carmit , Fahoum Lulu , Ungar Yael , Meyron-Holtz Esther G. , Shpigelman Avi , Lesmes Uri
Published: February 2018

An overview of evidence on Carrageenan (CGN), a family of marine polysaccharides, their characteristics and digestive fate that highlight various gaps in our understanding.
A natural food ingredient based on ergosterol: optimization of the extraction fromAgaricus blazei, evaluation of bioactive properties and incorporation in yogurts
Authors: Corrêa Rúbia C. G. , Barros Lillian , Fernandes Ângela , Sokovic Marina , Bracht Adelar , Peralta Rosane M. , Ferreira Isabel C. F. R.
Published: February 2018

A. blazeibioresidues can be used to obtain promising high value-added food additives, following a circular bioeconomy concept.
Facile and high-yield synthesis of methyl levulinate from cellulose
Authors: Huang Yao-Bing , Yang Tao , Lin Yu-Ting , Zhu Ying-Zhi , Li Li-Cheng , Pan Hui
Published: February 2018

The production of alkyl levulinates from cellulose was successfully achieved by using a simple and efficient metal salt catalyst, Al2(SO4)3, offering a high yield up to 70.6% under microwave conditions within a short reaction time of 40 minutes.
Spatially resolved spectral determination of polysaccharides in hydrothermally carbonized biomass
Authors: Mäkelä Mikko , Volpe Maurizio , Volpe Roberto , Fiori Luca , Dahl Olli
Published: February 2018

Hyperspectral imaging and multivariate image regression can replace expensive and time-consuming laboratory analyses of biomass and hydrochar polysaccharides.
A palladium-catalyzed dehydrative N-benzylation/C–H benzylation cascade of 2-morpholinoanilines on water
Authors: Hikawa Hidemasa , Ichinose Risa , Kikkawa Shoko , Azumaya Isao
Published: February 2018

A strategy for the palladium-catalyzed dehydrative tandem benzylation of 2-morpholinoanilines with benzyl alcohols has been developed. This cascade reaction is devised as a straightforward and efficient synthetic route for N-(1,2-diphenylethyl)-2-morpholinoanilines.
Mild hydrodeoxygenation of phenolic lignin model compounds over a FeReOx/ZrO2 catalyst: zirconia and rhenium oxide as efficient dehydration promoters
Authors: Sirous-Rezaei Pouya , Jae Jungho , Ha Jeong-Myeong , Ko Chang Hyun , Kim Ji Man , Jeon Jong-Ki , Park Young-Kwon
Published: February 2018

FeReOx/ZrO2, with mesoporosity, oxophilicity and well-balanced acidity, reveals high catalytic activity and low phenolic trapping potential in mild HDO of phenolics.
Human brain organoid-on-a-chip to model prenatal nicotine exposure
Authors: Wang Yaqing , Wang Li , Zhu Yujuan , Qin Jianhua
Published: February 2018

We present a new strategy to generate stem cell based human brain organoids using an organ-on-a-chip system that allows us to model prenatal nicotine exposure.
Synthesis of hierarchical ZSM-48 nano-zeolites
Authors: Astafan Amir , Benghalem Mohammed Amine , Michelin Laure , Rigolet Severinne , Patarin Joël , Pinard Ludovic , Daou T. Jean
Published: February 2018

A specific gemini-type surfactant that acts as dual functions template to generate *MRE-type zeolitic micropores and mesopores simultaneously.
Patterned tungsten disulfide/graphene heterostructures for efficient multifunctional optoelectronic devices
Authors: Rossi A. , Spirito D. , Bianco F. , Forti S. , Fabbri F. , Büch H. , Tredicucci A. , Krahne R. , Coletti C.
Published: February 2018

A patterned-growth, scalable fabrication strategy allows photodetectors with good electrical properties that show fast response with red light and persistent photocurrent with blue light.
Cooperative catalytic methoxycarbonylation of alkenes: uncovering the role of palladium complexes with hemilabile ligands
Authors: Dong Kaiwu , Sang Rui , Wei Zhihong , Liu Jie , Dühren Ricarda , Spannenberg Anke , Jiao Haijun , Neumann Helfried , Jackstell Ralf , Franke Robert , Beller Matthias
Published: February 2018

Mechanistic studies of the catalyst [Pd2(dba)3/1,1′-bis(tert-butyl(pyridin-2-yl)phosphanyl)ferrocene,L2] for olefin alkoxycarbonylation reactions are described.
Viscoelasticity of dense suspensions of thermosensitive microgel mixtures undergoing colloidal gelation
Authors: Minami Saori , Watanabe Takumi , Suzuki Daisuke , Urayama Kenji
Published: February 2018

Viscoelasticity of dense suspensions of thermosensitive microgel mixtures exhibits characteristic temperature-dependence resulting from colloidal gelation.
Active ideal sedimentation: exact two-dimensional steady states
Authors: Hermann Sophie , Schmidt Matthias
Published: February 2018

We determine and illustrate an analytical solution of the Smoluchowski equation for active, ideal colloids under gravity including translational and rotational diffusion.
An unusual alkylidyne homologation
Authors: Han Yong-Shen , Hill Anthony F. , Kong Richard Y.
Published: February 2018

Hydrolysis of the silyl-neopentylidyne complex [W(≡CtBu)(SiCl3)(CO)2(dcpe)] (dcpe = 1,2-bis(dicyclohexlphosphino)ethane) affords the neohexylidyne complex [W(≡CCH2tBu)Cl3(dcpe)], thereby modelling both Fischer–Tropsch CO reduction and C–C chain growth on a single metal centre.
Concentrated solar light for rapid crystallization of nanomaterials and extreme enhancement of photoelectrochemical performance
Authors: Zhao Yina , Qiu Beilei , Zhang Zhonghai
Published: February 2018

A concentrated solar light annealing strategy is proposed with a Fresnel lens as the concentrator for rapid and effective crystallization of nanomaterials, and all energy input comes from renewable solar energy as the source.
Three-way competition in a topochemical reaction: permutative azide–alkyne cycloaddition reactions leading to a vast library of products in the crystal
Authors: Hema Kuntrapakam , Sureshan Kana M.
Published: February 2018

Crystals of 5-azido-3-O-propargyl-1,2-O-isopropylidene-α-d-ribofuranose undergo topochemical azide–alkyne cycloaddition reaction in three different pathways leading to a library of products.
Sulphation and ammonia regeneration of a Pt/MnOx–CeO2/Al2O3 catalyst for NOx-assisted soot oxidation
Authors: Gao Yuxi , Wu Xiaodong , Nord Robin , Härelind Hanna , Weng Duan
Published: February 2018

Sulphates deposited on the catalysts can be reduced by ammonia with the catalysis of Pt during CDPF regeneration.
Can off-centre mesogen dipoles extend the biaxial nematic range?
Authors: Querciagrossa Lara , Berardi Roberto , Zannoni Claudio
Published: February 2018

An axial off-centre dipole of the right strength added to an apolar biaxial mesogen widens the biaxial nematic range.
Utterance Duration as It Relates to Communicative Variables in Infant Vocal Development
Authors: Ramsdell-Hudock Heather L. , Stuart Andrew , Parham Douglas F.
Published: February 2018

Purpose

We aimed to provide novel information on utterance duration as it relates to vocal type, facial affect, gaze direction, and age in the prelinguistic/early linguistic infant.

Method

Infant utterances were analyzed from longitudinal recordings of 15 infants at 8, 10, 12, 14, and 16 months of age. Utterance durations were measured and coded for vocal type (i.e., squeal, growl, raspberry, vowel, cry, laugh), facial affect (i.e., positive, negative, neutral), and gaze direction (i.e., to person, to mirror, or not directed).

Results

Of the 18,236 utterances analyzed, durations were typically shortest at 14 months of age and longest at 16 months of age. Statistically significant changes were observed in utterance durations across age for all variables of interest.

Conclusion

Despite variation in duration of infant utterances, developmental patterns were observed. For these infants, utterance durations appear to become more consolidated later in development, after the 1st year of life. Indeed, 12 months is often noted as the typical age of onset for 1st words and might possibly be a point in time when utterance durations begin to show patterns across communicative variables.
Characterising open clusters in the solar neighbourhood with the Tycho-Gaia Astrometric Solution
Authors: Cantat-Gaudin T. , Vallenari A. , Sordo R. , Pensabene F. , Krone-Martins A. , Moitinho A. , Jordi C. , Casamiquela L. , Balaguer-Núnez L. , Soubiran C. , Brouillet N.
Published: February 2018

Context. The Tycho-Gaia Astrometric Solution (TGAS) subset of the first Gaia catalogue contains an unprecedented sample of proper motions and parallaxes for two million stars brighter than G ~ 12 mag.

Aims. We take advantage of the full astrometric solution available for those stars to identify the members of known open clusters and compute mean cluster parameters using either TGAS or the fourth U.S. Naval Observatory CCD Astrograph Catalog (UCAC4) proper motions, and TGAS parallaxes.

Methods. We apply an unsupervised membership assignment procedure to select high probability cluster members, we use a Bayesian/Markov Chain Monte Carlo technique to fit stellar isochrones to the observed 2MASS JHKS magnitudes of the member stars and derive cluster parameters (age, metallicity, extinction, distance modulus), and we combine TGAS data with spectroscopic radial velocities to compute full Galactic orbits.

Results. We obtain mean astrometric parameters (proper motions and parallaxes) for 128 clusters closer than about 2 kpc, and cluster parameters from isochrone fitting for 26 of them located within a distance of 1 kpc from the Sun. We show the orbital parameters obtained from integrating 36 orbits in a Galactic potential.
Food labels: consumer’s information or consumer’s confusion
Authors: Monier-Dilhan Sylvette
Published: February 2018

This paper synthesizes findings of published research on the impact of food labels on consumers’ willingness to pay and focuses on the consumers’ rationales when deciding to purchase organic food. The first issue refers to one aspect of the proliferation of quality labels in the agro-food sector: the coexistence of two signs on one product and the consequences of this coexistence on the value of each sign. In the context of the competition between national brands and private labels through public quality labels, it has been shown that the willingness to pay for a quality sign decreases when it is combined with another one on the same product. The second concern is a two-fold issue: the characterization of “organics food consumers” in terms of socio-demographics characteristics and consumers’ purchasing motives. The more consistent result is that consumers with higher levels of education are more likely to purchase organic products. The three main reasons for buying organic products are considerations related to health, product quality, and environmental protection. The proliferation of signs about quality is a topical issue related to the emergence of sustainability issues that highlight labels linked to agro-ecological practices. The question of the effectiveness of the informational role of labels remains relevant.
l-Proline: An Efficient Organocatalyst for the Synthesis of 5-Substituted 1H-Tetrazoles via [3+2] Cycloaddition of Nitriles and Sodium Azide
Authors: Telvekar Vikas , Bhagat Saket
Published: February 2018

A simple and efficient route for the synthesis of a series of 5-substituted 1H-tetrazoles using l-proline as a catalyst from structurally diverse organic nitriles and sodium azide is reported. The prominent features of this environmentally benign, cost effective, and high-yielding l-proline-catalyzed protocol includes simple experimental procedure, short reaction time, simple workup, and excellent yields making it a safer and economical alternative to hazardous Lewis acid catalyzed methods. The protocol was successfully applied to a broad range of substrates, including aliphatic and aryl nitriles, organic thiocyanates, and cyanamides.
Webb–Dattani Syndrome: Report of a Saudi Arabian Family with a Novel Homozygous Mutation in the ARNT2 Gene
Authors: Al-Sannaa Nouriya Abbas , Pepler Alexander , Al-Abdulwahed Hind Y. , Al-Majed Sami I. , Abdi Rifat F. , Menzel Moritz , Biskup Saskia
Published: February 2018

Webb–Dattani syndrome (WEDAS) is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutation in the ARNT2 gene characterized by frontotemporal hypoplasia, globally delayed development, and pituitary and hypothalamic insufficiency. The condition is reported to be associated with consanguinity and with Saudi Arabian ancestry. Here we describe a family of three affected siblings born to healthy second cousin parents of Saudi Arabian ancestry. The children presented at 3 months of age with congenital central hypotonia and hypoventilation, central diabetes insipidus, multiple pituitary hormone deficiency, severe developmental delay, acquired microcephaly, cortical blindness with normal retinal examination, seizures, and gastroesophageal reflux. Whole exome sequencing detected a homozygous unclear variant (c.378C>T; p.G126G) in the ARNT2 gene in both the affected twins. According to splice prediction programs, this variant results in the creation of a cryptic donor splice site, possibly leading to a loss of function. These data support the role of the detected mutation in the ARNT2 gene in causing the described phenotype.
Adenoma recurrence after endoscopic mucosal resection: propensity score analysis of old and new colonoscopes and Sydney recurrence tool implementation
Authors: Vinsard Daniela , Kandel Pujan , Mejia Perez Lady , Bingham Russell , Lennon Ryan , Woodward Timothy , Gomez Victoria , Raimondo Massimo , Bouras Ernest , Wallace Michael
Published: February 2018

Background and study aims Risk factors for colorectal adenoma recurrence after endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) have been well documented. We assessed the efficacy of the newer 190 colonoscope versus the standard 180 colonoscope for complete resection of lateral spreading lesions.

Patients and methods A single-center, retrospective study of patients who underwent EMR with Olympus 180 or 190 colonoscopes from January 1, 2010 to September 30, 2016. We included patients with lesions ≥ 20 mm and surveillance colonoscopy (SC1) after index EMR. A propensity score approach with inverse probability weighting was used to control for potential confounders. A secondary aim was to identify risk factors for recurrence and assess the applicability of the Sydney EMR recurrence tool (SERT) by grading each lesion of our cohort and analyzing associations with recurrence.

Results Two hundred ninety-one lesions met inclusion criteria for the study. Odds ratio (OR) for recurrence with the 190 colonoscope was 1.06 (P = .85). Adenoma size (P = .02) and use of argon plasma coagulation (APC; P < .001) were risk factors for recurrence. Lesions with SERT scores > 0 had a higher recurrence risk during follow-up (32 % vs 21 %; OR 1.71; P = .05). Lesions with SERT scores = 0 reached a plateau for recurrence at 12 and 18 months in Kaplan-Meier curves.

Conclusions The use of 190 colonoscopes did not measurably affect adenoma recurrence at SC1. Recurrence was associated with adenoma size, complementary APC for resection, and SERT scores > 0. Lesions with SERT scores = 0 that remain negative for recurrence at 18 months may return to routine surveillance.
Extended cold snare polypectomy for small colorectal polyps increases the R0 resection rate
Authors: Abe Yasuhiro , Nabeta Haruaki , Koyanagi Ryota , Nakamichi Taro , Hirashima Hayato , Lefor Alan , Shinozaki Satoshi
Published: February 2018

Background and study aims Despite widespread use of cold snare polypectomy (CSP), the R0 resection rate is not well documented. We perform extended CSP, resecting polyps with a > 1 mm circumferential margin. The aim of this study is to compare the R0 resection rate of extended CSP with conventional CSP and to assess safety.

Patients and methods From April 2014 to September 2016, 712 non-pedunculated colorectal polyps, < 10 mm in size, resected using CSP from 316 patients were retrospectively analyzed.

Results We divided lesions into conventional CSP (n = 263) and extended CSP groups (n = 449). The baseline characteristics of these two groups were not significantly different in univariate or multivariate analyses. Sessile polyps comprised 94 % (668/712), and the remaining were flat-elevated polyps. Mean size of polyps (±standard deviation) was 4.2 ± 1.5 mm. The most frequent pathology was low grade adenoma (97 %, 689/712). The R0 resection rate was significantly higher in the extended CSP group (439/449 [98 %]) than in the conventional CSP group (222/263 [84 %], P < 0.001). There was no delayed bleeding or perforation in either group (conventional CSP group, 0/263, 95 % confidence interval: 0.0 – 1.4 % and extended CSP group, 0/449, 95 % confidence interval: 0.0 – 0.8 %).

Conclusions Extended CSP results in a higher R0 resection rate compared with conventional CSP. Extended CSP did not result in a higher rate of delayed bleeding or perforation. Extended CSP is a safe and promising procedure for endoscopic resection of non-pedunculated colorectal polyps < 10 mm in size
Fetal Cardiac Remodeling in Response to Anemia: Using Hemoglobin Bart’s Disease as a Study Model
Authors: Tongsong Theera , Tongprasert Fuanglada , Srisupundit Kasemsri , Luewan Suchaya , Traisrisilp Kuntharee , Jatavan Phudit
Published: February 2018

Objective To assess fetal cardiac remodeling in response to anemia, by comparing the fetal cardiac dimensions and global sphericity index (GSI) of normal fetuses and fetuses with anemia using fetal Hb Bart’s disease as a study model.

Methods Fetuses at risk for Hb Bart’s disease undergoing cordocentesis at 18 to 22 weeks of gestation were recruited. Fetal cardiac dimensions including GSI (cardiac length to cardiac width ratio), interventricular septum thickness (IVST), left ventricular wall thickness (LVWT) and right ventricular wall thickness (RVWT) were measured.

Results 215 pregnancies at risk met the inclusion criteria, including 54 affected fetuses and 161 normal fetuses. The mean GSI was significantly lower in the affected group (1.11 ± 0.06 vs. 1.26 ± 0.09, p-value 0.017). The GSI of the normal group was relatively constant regardless of gestational age. The IVST and LVWT tended to increase, but not significantly, in the affected group, whereas the RVWT was minimally but significantly increased. The ROC curve for GSI had an area under curve of 0.844. The best cut-off of GSI was 1.17, giving a sensitivity of 74.1 % and a specificity of 88.2 %.

Conclusion Fetal cardiac remodeling in response to anemia causes a marked decrease in global GSI with minimal hypertrophy as an adaption to volume overload. Importantly, GSI is a new maker for anemia and may play a role in clinical application for early detection of fetal anemia, possibly due to any cause. Additionally, GSI measurement is simple and gestational age-independent.
Modeling the electrical grid impact of wind ramp-up forecasting error offshore in the Mid-Atlantic region
Authors: Veron Dana E. , Brodie Joseph F. , Shirazi Yosef A. , Gilchrist Justin R.
Published: February 2018

The large wind resource and population centers along the Mid-Atlantic Coast of the United States make it an attractive region to develop offshore wind power. Understanding and accurately predicting the meteorology offshore is fundamental to efficient integration of these future wind farms into an electrical grid. Particular interest is focused on anticipating and reducing errors associated with wind ramps, which are characterized by rapid, sustained changes in wind speed over a period of hours. Using meteorological observations from a coastal buoy, we characterize 428 wind ramp-ups between 2005 and 2012 in terms of frequency, duration and magnitude, time and date of occurrence, and large-scale synoptics. From this group, we select 24 case studies that represent typical and extreme ramp-ups at this location and then model the impact that the forecasting error of these ramp-ups could have on the electrical grid. The case studies are modeled with the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model and compared with nearby buoy observations to assess forecast errors in ramp-up timing, shape, and magnitude. WRF frequently simulated ramp-ups too early, relative to observations, and often predicted the pre-ramp-up wind speed to be too high or the post-ramp-up wind speed to be too low. In the case of August 14, 2007, all three forecast errors occurred. The simulated impact on the grid is calculated by comparing the errors in forecast power with concurrent electrical load data in PJM's Mid-Atlantic Area Council-East (PJM-E) region. The largest impacts on the electrical grid were found to occur in the winter or at night in the summer. This framework allows for the identification of events that would potentially cause problems for the electrical grid in the PJM-E region.
CuS nanoplates from ionic liquid precursors—Application in organic photovoltaic cells
Authors: Kim Yohan , Heyne Benjamin , Abouserie Ahed , Pries Christopher , Ippen Christian , Günter Christina , Taubert Andreas , Wedel Armin
Published: February 2018

Hexagonal p-type semiconductor CuS nanoplates were synthesized via a hot injection method from bis(trimethylsilyl)sulfide and the ionic liquid precursor bis(N-dodecylpyridinium) tetrachloridocuprate(ii). The particles have a broad size distribution with diameters between 30 and 680 nm and well-developed crystal habits. The nanoplates were successfully incorporated into organic photovoltaic (OPV) cells as hole conduction materials. The power conversion efficiency of OPV cells fabricated with the nanoplates is 16% higher than that of a control device fabricated without the nanoplates.
Positive steady states for a nonlinear diffusion Beddington-DeAngelis model
Authors: Zhang Jia-Fang , Wang Shaoli
Published: February 2018

The main purpose of this work is to investigate the effects of nonlinear diffusion on positive steady states in a Beddington-DeAngelis model. By the energy method and Leray-Schauder degree theory, we consider the non-existence and existence of concerning non-constant positive steady states of the model. We demonstrate that nonlinear diffusion can create non-constant positive steady-state solutions even when the random diffusion fails to do so.
Space environment simulation and sensor calibration facility
Authors: Engelhart Daniel P. , Patton James , Plis Elena , Cooper Russell , Hoffmann Ryan , Ferguson Dale , Hilmer Robert V. , McGarity John , Holeman Ernest
Published: February 2018

The Mumbo space environment simulation chamber discussed here comprises a set of tools to calibrate a variety of low flux, low energy electron and ion detectors used in satellite-mounted particle sensors. The chamber features electron and ion beam sources, a Lyman-alpha ultraviolet lamp, a gimbal table sensor mounting system, cryogenic sample mount and chamber shroud, and beam characterization hardware and software. The design of the electron and ion sources presented here offers a number of unique capabilities for space weather sensor calibration. Both sources create particle beams with narrow, well-characterized energetic and angular distributions with beam diameters that are larger than most space sensor apertures. The electron and ion sources can produce consistently low fluxes that are representative of quiescent space conditions. The particle beams are characterized by 2D beam mapping with several co-located pinhole aperture electron multipliers to capture relative variation in beam intensity and a large aperture Faraday cup to measure absolute current density.