bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Voice More and Stay Longer: How Ethical Leaders Influence Employee Voice and Exit Intentions
Authors: Lam Long W. , Loi Raymond , Chan Ka Wai , Liu Yan
Published: May 2016

Given the importance of voice in ethical leadership theory, we analyze the relationship of ethical leadership to employee voice and the relationship of voice to exit intentions. Building on the theory of work engagement, we further hypothesize that cognitive engagement mediates these proposed relationships. To test these propositions, we conduct a field study to relate ethical leadership of supervisors, measured at time 1, to employees’ cognitive job engagement, measured at time 2. The analyses show that the relationship between these variables can account for supervisory ethical leadership’s association with employee voice and exit intentions. In a supplementary study using a different sample, we find that supervisory ethical leadership is related to exit intentions through voice. We discuss how these findings contribute to the literature on ethical leadership, employee voice, and exit.
An introduction to continuous optimization for imaging
Authors: Chambolle Antonin , Pock Thomas
Published: May 2016

A large number of imaging problems reduce to the optimization of a cost function, with typical structural properties. The aim of this paper is to describe the state of the art in continuous optimization methods for such problems, and present the most successful approaches and their interconnections. We place particular emphasis on optimal first-order schemes that can deal with typical non-smooth and large-scale objective functions used in imaging problems. We illustrate and compare the different algorithms using classical non-smooth problems in imaging, such as denoising and deblurring. Moreover, we present applications of the algorithms to more advanced problems, such as magnetic resonance imaging, multilabel image segmentation, optical flow estimation, stereo matching, and classification.
Assessment of Groin Application of Junctional Tourniquets in a Manikin Model
Authors: Kragh John F. , Lunati Matthew P. , Kharod Chetan U. , Cunningham Cord W. , Bailey Jeffrey A. , Stockinger Zsolt T. , Cap Andrew P. , Chen Jacob , Aden James K. , Cancio Leopoldo C.
Published: May 2016

Introduction

To aid in preparation of military medic trainers for a possible new curriculum in teaching junctional tourniquet use, the investigators studied the time to control hemorrhage and blood volume lost in order to provide evidence for ease of use.

Hypothesis

Models of junctional tourniquet could perform differentially by blood loss, time to hemostasis, and user preference.

Methods

In a laboratory experiment, 30 users controlled simulated hemorrhage from a manikin (Combat Ready Clamp [CRoC] Trainer) with three iterations each of three junctional tourniquets. There were 270 tests which included hemorrhage control (yes/no), time to hemostasis, and blood volume lost. Users also subjectively ranked tourniquet performance. Models included CRoC, Junctional Emergency Treatment Tool (JETT), and SAM Junctional Tourniquet (SJT). Time to hemostasis and total blood loss were log-transformed and analyzed using a mixed model analysis of variance (ANOVA) with the users represented as random effects and the tourniquet model used as the treatment effect. Preference scores were analyzed with ANOVA, and Tukey’s honest significant difference test was used for all post-hoc pairwise comparisons.

Results

All tourniquet uses were 100% effective for hemorrhage control. For blood loss, CRoC and SJT performed best with least blood loss and were significantly better than JETT; in pairwise comparison, CRoC-JETT (P< .0001) and SJT-JETT (P= .0085) were statistically significant in their mean difference, while CRoC-SJT (P= .35) was not. For time to hemostasis in pairwise comparison, the CRoC had a significantly shorter time compared to JETT and SJT (P< .0001, both comparisons); SJT-JETT was also significant (P= .0087). In responding to the directive, “Rank the performance of the models from best to worst,” users did not prefer junctional tourniquet models differently (P> .5, all models).

Conclusion

The CRoC and SJT performed best in having least blood loss, CRoC performed best in having least time to hemostasis, and users did not differ in preference of model. Models of junctional tourniquet performed differentially by blood loss and time to hemostasis.

KraghJFJr,LunatiMP,KharodCU,CunninghamCW,BaileyJA,StockingerZT,CapAP,ChenJ,AdenJK3d,CancioLC.Assessment of groin application of junctional tourniquets in a manikin model.Prehosp Disaster Med.2016;31(4):358–363.
The Significance of Interparental Conflict for	Children
Authors: Zemp Martina , Bodenmann Guy , Mark Cummings Edward
Published: May 2016

Abstract. This review summarizes research and theory on the impact of interparental conflict for child well-being. Drawing from this literature the primary focus of many family programs on parenting seems unconvincing. Contemporary approaches increasingly acknowledge the importance of addressing the interparental relationship to reduce and/or prevent behavior problems in children. However, studies examining the impact of enhancing the parents’ relationship for children are still in their infancy. Yet, this emerging line of research indicates that couple-focused interventions alone or adjunct to parenting programs may be a potent means of increasing child adjustment. The potential of couple-focused interventions to support children’s adjustment and practical implications of such approaches are discussed. Future directions are suggested that urgently need to be addressed to advance this promising area of family psychology.
Mapping the electrostatic force field of single molecules from high-resolution scanning probe images
Authors: Hapala Prokop , Švec Martin , Stetsovych Oleksandr , van der Heijden Nadine J. , Ondráček Martin , van der Lit Joost , Mutombo Pingo , Swart Ingmar , Jelínek Pavel
Published: May 2016

How electronic charge is distributed over a molecule determines to a large extent its chemical properties. Here, we demonstrate how the electrostatic force field, originating from the inhomogeneous charge distribution in a molecule, can be measured with submolecular resolution. We exploit the fact that distortions typically observed in high-resolution atomic force microscopy images are for a significant part caused by the electrostatic force acting between charges of the tip and the molecule of interest. By finding a geometrical transformation between two high-resolution AFM images acquired with two different tips, the electrostatic force field or potential over individual molecules and self-assemblies thereof can be reconstructed with submolecular resolution.
ATP6AP1 deficiency causes an immunodeficiency with hepatopathy, cognitive impairment and abnormal protein glycosylation
Authors: Jansen Eric J. R. , Timal Sharita , Ryan Margret , Ashikov Angel , van Scherpenzeel Monique , Graham Laurie A. , Mandel Hanna , Hoischen Alexander , Iancu Theodore C. , Raymond Kimiyo , Steenbergen Gerry , Gilissen Christian , Huijben Karin , van Bakel Nick H. M. , Maeda Yusuke , Rodenburg Richard J. , Adamowicz Maciej , Crushell Ellen , Koenen Hans , Adams Darius , Vodopiutz Julia , Greber-Platzer Susanne , Müller Thomas , Dueckers Gregor , Morava Eva , Sykut-Cegielska Jolanta , Martens Gerard J. M. , Wevers Ron A. , Niehues Tim , Huynen Martijn A. , Veltman Joris A. , Stevens Tom H. , Lefeber Dirk J.
Published: May 2016

The V-ATPase is the main regulator of intra-organellar acidification. Assembly of this complex has extensively been studied in yeast, while limited knowledge exists for man. We identified 11 male patients with hemizygous missense mutations in ATP6AP1, encoding accessory protein Ac45 of the V-ATPase. Homology detection at the level of sequence profiles indicated Ac45 as the long-sought human homologue of yeast V-ATPase assembly factor Voa1. Processed wild-type Ac45, but not its disease mutants, restored V-ATPase-dependent growth in Voa1 mutant yeast. Patients display an immunodeficiency phenotype associated with hypogammaglobulinemia, hepatopathy and a spectrum of neurocognitive abnormalities. Ac45 in human brain is present as the common, processed ∼40-kDa form, while liver shows a 62-kDa intact protein, and B-cells a 50-kDa isoform. Our work unmasks Ac45 as the functional ortholog of yeast V-ATPase assembly factor Voa1 and reveals a novel link of tissue-specific V-ATPase assembly with immunoglobulin production and cognitive function.
Mutations in SLC39A14 disrupt manganese homeostasis and cause childhood-onset parkinsonism–dystonia
Authors: Tuschl Karin , Meyer Esther , Valdivia Leonardo E. , Zhao Ningning , Dadswell Chris , Abdul-Sada Alaa , Hung Christina Y. , Simpson Michael A. , Chong W. K. , Jacques Thomas S. , Woltjer Randy L. , Eaton Simon , Gregory Allison , Sanford Lynn , Kara Eleanna , Houlden Henry , Cuno Stephan M. , Prokisch Holger , Valletta Lorella , Tiranti Valeria , Younis Rasha , Maher Eamonn R. , Spencer John , Straatman-Iwanowska Ania , Gissen Paul , Selim Laila A. M. , Pintos-Morell Guillem , Coroleu-Lletget Wifredo , Mohammad Shekeeb S. , Yoganathan Sangeetha , Dale Russell C. , Thomas Maya , Rihel Jason , Bodamer Olaf A. , Enns Caroline A. , Hayflick Susan J. , Clayton Peter T. , Mills Philippa B. , Kurian Manju A. , Wilson Stephen W.
Published: May 2016

Although manganese is an essential trace metal, little is known about its transport and homeostatic regulation. Here we have identified a cohort of patients with a novel autosomal recessive manganese transporter defect caused by mutations in SLC39A14. Excessive accumulation of manganese in these patients results in rapidly progressive childhood-onset parkinsonism–dystonia with distinctive brain magnetic resonance imaging appearances and neurodegenerative features on post-mortem examination. We show that mutations in SLC39A14 impair manganese transport in vitro and lead to manganese dyshomeostasis and altered locomotor activity in zebrafish with CRISPR-induced slc39a14 null mutations. Chelation with disodium calcium edetate lowers blood manganese levels in patients and can lead to striking clinical improvement. Our results demonstrate that SLC39A14 functions as a pivotal manganese transporter in vertebrates.
A method to rapidly create protein aggregates in living cells
Authors: Miyazaki Yusuke , Mizumoto Kota , Dey Gautam , Kudo Takamasa , Perrino John , Chen Ling-chun , Meyer Tobias , Wandless Thomas J.
Published: May 2016

The accumulation of protein aggregates is a common pathological hallmark of many neurodegenerative diseases. However, we do not fully understand how aggregates are formed or the complex network of chaperones, proteasomes and other regulatory factors involved in their clearance. Here, we report a chemically controllable fluorescent protein that enables us to rapidly produce small aggregates inside living cells on the order of seconds, as well as monitor the movement and coalescence of individual aggregates into larger structures. This method can be applied to diverse experimental systems, including live animals, and may prove valuable for understanding cellular responses and diseases associated with protein aggregates.
A dual molecular analogue tuner for dissecting protein function in mammalian cells
Authors: Brosh Ran , Hrynyk Iryna , Shen Jessalyn , Waghray Avinash , Zheng Ning , Lemischka Ihor R.
Published: May 2016

Loss-of-function studies are fundamental for dissecting gene function. Yet, methods to rapidly and effectively perturb genes in mammalian cells, and particularly in stem cells, are scarce. Here we present a system for simultaneous conditional regulation of two different proteins in the same mammalian cell. This system harnesses the plant auxin and jasmonate hormone-induced degradation pathways, and is deliverable with only two lentiviral vectors. It combines RNAi-mediated silencing of two endogenous proteins with the expression of two exogenous proteins whose degradation is induced by external ligands in a rapid, reversible, titratable and independent manner. By engineering molecular tuners for NANOG, CHK1, p53 and NOTCH1 in mammalian stem cells, we have validated the applicability of the system and demonstrated its potential to unravel complex biological processes.
Erratum: Computational understanding of Li-ion batteries
Authors: Urban Alexander , Seo Dong-Hwa , Ceder Gerbrand
Published: May 2016

Correction to: npj Computational Materials (2016) 2, 16002; doi:10.1038/npjcompumats.2016.2; published online 18 March 2016 Since the online publication of the above article, it has been noted that an acknowledgement section should have been included and the text should read: ‘This work was supported primarily by the U.
Biology and survival of extremely halophilic archaeon Haloarcula marismortui RR12 isolated from Mumbai salterns, India in response to salinity stress
Authors: Thombre Rebecca S. , Shinde Vinaya D. , Oke Radhika S. , Dhar Sunil Kumar , Shouche Yogesh S.
Published: May 2016

Haloarchaea are unique microorganism’s resistant to environmental and osmotic stresses and thrive in their habitats despite extreme fluctuating salinities. In the present study, haloarchaea were isolated from hypersaline thalossohaline salterns of Bhandup, Mumbai, India and were identified as Haloferax prahovense, Haloferax alexandrines, Haloferax lucentense, Haloarcula tradensis, Haloarcula marismortui and Haloarcula argentinensis. The mechanism of adaptation to contrasting salinities (1.5 M and 4.5 M) was investigated in the extreme haloarchaeon, Hal. marismortui RR12. Hal. marismortui RR12 increased the intracellular sequestration of K+ and Cl− ions in hypo salinity and hyper salinity respectively as detected by Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy microanalysis (EDAX) and Inductively Coupled Plasma- atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-AES) indicating the presence of ‘salt-in’ strategy of osmoadaptation. As a cellular response to salinity stress, it produced small heat shock like proteins (sHSP) identified using MALDI-TOF MS and increased the production of protective red carotenoid pigment. This is the first report on the study of the concomitant cellular, molecular and physiological mechanism adapted by Hal. marismortui RR12 when exposed to contrasting salinities in external environment.
ICOS+PD-1+CXCR3+ T follicular helper cells contribute to the generation of high-avidity antibodies following influenza vaccination
Authors: Bentebibel Salah-Eddine , Khurana Surender , Schmitt Nathalie , Kurup Parvathi , Mueller Cynthia , Obermoser Gerlinde , Palucka A. Karolina , Albrecht Randy A. , Garcia-Sastre Adolfo , Golding Hana , Ueno Hideki
Published: May 2016

The immune mechanism leading to the generation of protective antibody responses following influenza trivalent inactivated vaccine (TIV) vaccinations remains largely uncharacterized. We recently reported that TIV vaccination induced a transient increase of circulating ICOS+PD-1+CXCR3+ T follicular helper (cTfh) cells in blood, which positively correlated with the induction of protective antibody responses measured at day 28. However, whether and how these T cells directly contribute to antibody response remains unclear. In this study, we analyzed the changes after TIV vaccination in the amount and the avidity of the polyclonal antibodies specific for the HA1 subunit of the pandemic H1N1 virus, and analyzed the correlation with the increase of ICOS+PD-1+CXCR3+ cTfh cells. We found that both the amount and the avidity of specific antibodies rapidly increased during the first 7 days after TIV. Importantly, the increase of ICOS+PD-1+CXCR3+ cTfh cells strongly correlated with the increase in the avidity of antibodies, particularly in subjects who did not have high affinity antibodies at baseline. We propose that ICOS+PD-1+CXCR3+ Tfh cells directly contribute to the generation of high-avidity antibodies after TIV vaccinations by selectively interacting with high affinity B cells at extrafollicular sites.
Multiscale architectured materials with composition and grain size gradients manufactured using high-pressure torsion
Authors: Kang Ji Yun , Kim Jung Gi , Park Hyo Wook , Kim Hyoung Seop
Published: May 2016

The concept of multiscale architectured materials is established using composition and grain size gradients. Composition-gradient nanostructured materials are produced from coarse grained interstitial free steels via carburization and high-pressure torsion. Quantitative analyses of the dislocation density using X-ray diffraction and microstructural studies clearly demonstrate the gradients of the dislocation density and grain size. The mechanical properties of the gradient materials are compared with homogeneous nanostructured carbon steel without a composition gradient in an effort to investigate the gradient effect. Based on the above observations, the potential of multiscale architecturing to open a new material property is discussed.
New insights into the transport processes controlling the sulfate-methane-transition-zone near methane vents
Authors: Sultan Nabil , Garziglia Sébastien , Ruffine Livio
Published: May 2016

Over the past years, several studies have raised concerns about the possible interactions between methane hydrate decomposition and external change. To carry out such an investigation, it is essential to characterize the baseline dynamics of gas hydrate systems related to natural geological and sedimentary processes. This is usually treated through the analysis of sulfate-reduction coupled to anaerobic oxidation of methane (AOM). Here, we model sulfate reduction coupled with AOM as a two-dimensional (2D) problem including, advective and diffusive transport. This is applied to a case study from a deep-water site off Nigeria’s coast where lateral methane advection through turbidite layers was suspected. We show by analyzing the acquired data in combination with computational modeling that a two-dimensional approach is able to accurately describe the recent past dynamics of such a complex natural system. Our results show that the sulfate-methane-transition-zone (SMTZ) is not a vertical barrier for dissolved sulfate and methane. We also show that such a modeling is able to assess short timescale variations in the order of decades to centuries.
Population genetic structure and post-LGM expansion of the plant bug Nesidiocoris tenuis (Hemiptera: Miridae) in China
Authors: Xun Huaizhu , Li Hu , Li Shujuan , Wei Shujun , Zhang Lijuan , Song Fan , Jiang Pei , Yang Hailin , Han Fei , Cai Wanzhi
Published: May 2016

The plant bug,Nesidiocoris tenuis(Hemiptera: Miridae), is one of the most thermophilous dicyphines in agroecosystems and is widely distributed in China. Little is known regarding the genetic structure ofN. tenuisand the effect of historical climatic fluctuations onN. tenuispopulations. We analyzed partial sequences of three mitochondrial protein-coding genes (COI, ND2andCytB) and nuclear genes (5.8S, ITS2 and28S) for 516 specimens collected from 37 localities across China. Analyses of the combined mitochondrial dataset indicated that the Southwestern China group (SWC) was significantly differentiated from the remaining populations, other Chinese group (OC). Asymmetric migration and high level of gene flow across a long distance within the OC group was detected. The long-distance dispersal ofN. tenuismight be affected by air currents and human interference. Both the neutrality tests and mismatch distributions revealed the occurrence of historical population expansion. Bayesian skyline plot analyses with two different substitution rates indicated thatN. tenuismight follow the post-LGM (the Last Glacial Maximum) expansion pattern for temperate species. Pleistocene climatic fluctuation, complicated topography and anthropogenic factors, along with other ecological factors (e.g. temperature and air current) might have accounted for the current population structure ofN. tenuis.
Dependences of Q-branch integrated intensity of linear-molecule pendular spectra on electric-field strength and rotational temperature and its potential applications
Authors: Deng Min , Wang Hailing , Wang Qin , Yin Jianping
Published: May 2016

We calculate the pendular-state spectra of cold linear molecules, and investigated the dependences of “Q-branch” integrated intensity of pendular spectra on both electric-field strength and molecular rotation-temperature. A new multi-peak structure in the “Q-branch” spectrum is appearing when the Stark interaction strength ω = μE/B equal to or larger than the critical value. Our study shows that the above results can be used not only to measure the electric-field vector and its spatial distribution in some electrostatic devices, such as the Stark decelerator, Stark velocity filter and electrostatic trap and so on, but also to survey the orientation degree of cold linear molecules in a strong electrostatic field.
RhBMP-2 Activates Hippo Signaling through RASSF1 in Esophageal Cancer Cells
Authors: Kim Soo Mi , Ye Shuai , Rah So-Young , Park Byung Hyun , Wang Hongen , Kim Jung-Ryul , Kim Seung Ho , Jang Kyu Yun , Lee Kwang-Bok
Published: May 2016

Despite that recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) has been reported as a stimulatory effecter of cancer cell growth because of its characteristic like morphogen, the biological functions of rhBMP-2 in human esophageal cancer cells are unknown. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether rhBMP-2 has an inhibitory effect on the growth of human esophageal squamous carcinoma cells (ESCC). RhBMP-2 significantly inhibited proliferation of ESCC cells in a dose-dependent manner in the MTT assay. Cell cycle arrest at the G1 phase was induced 24 h after rhBMP2 treatment. RhBMP-2 also reduced cyclin D1, cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) 4 and CDK 6 activities, and stimulated p-Smad1/5/8, p53, and p21 levels at 12 h. In contrast, rhBMP-2 diminished poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) protein expression levels and activated cleaved PARP, cleaved caspase-7, and cleaved-caspase 9 levels in ESCC cells. In addition, rhBMP-2 increased MST1, MOB1, and p-YAP protein levels and the RASSF1 binds Mst1 more upon treatment with rhBMP2. The induced p-YAP expression in TE-8 and TE-12 cells by rhBMP-2 was reversed by the RASSF1 knockdown. In vivo study, rhBMP-2 decreased tumor volume following subcutaneous implantation and showed higher radiologic score (less bony destruction) after femoral implantation compared to those in a control group. These results suggest that rhBMP-2 inhibits rather than activates proliferation of human esophageal cancer cells which is mediated through activating the hippo signaling pathway.
Transcriptome analysis of human ageing in male skin shows mid-life period of variability and central role of NF-κB
Authors: Haustead Daniel J. , Stevenson Andrew , Saxena Vishal , Marriage Fiona , Firth Martin , Silla Robyn , Martin Lisa , Adcroft Katharine F. , Rea Suzanne , Day Philip J. , Melton Phillip , Wood Fiona M. , Fear Mark W.
Published: May 2016

Age is well-known to be a significant factor in both disease pathology and response to treatment, yet the molecular changes that occur with age in humans remain ill-defined. Here, using transcriptome profiling of healthy human male skin, we demonstrate that there is a period of significantly elevated, transcriptome-wide expression changes occurring predominantly in middle age. Both pre and post this period, the transcriptome appears to undergo much smaller, linear changes with increasing age. Functional analysis of the transient changes in middle age suggest a period of heightened metabolic activity and cellular damage associated with NF-kappa-B and TNF signaling pathways. Through meta-analysis we also show the presence of global, tissue independent linear transcriptome changes with age which appear to be regulated by NF-kappa-B. These results suggest that aging in human skin is associated with a critical mid-life period with widespread transcriptome changes, both preceded and proceeded by a relatively steady rate of linear change in the transcriptome. The data provides insight into molecular changes associated with normal aging and will help to better understand the increasingly important pathological changes associated with aging.
Identifications of novel mechanisms in breast cancer cells involving duct-like multicellular spheroid formation after exposure to the Random Positioning Machine
Authors: Kopp Sascha , Slumstrup Lasse , Corydon Thomas J. , Sahana Jayashree , Aleshcheva Ganna , Islam Tawhidul , Magnusson Nils E. , Wehland Markus , Bauer Johann , Infanger Manfred , Grimm Daniela
Published: May 2016

Many cell types form three-dimensional aggregates (MCS; multicellular spheroids), when they are cultured under microgravity. MCS often resemble the organ, from which the cells have been derived. In this study we investigated human MCF-7 breast cancer cells after a 2 h-, 4 h-, 16 h-, 24 h- and 5d-exposure to a Random Positioning Machine (RPM) simulating microgravity. At 24 h few small compact MCS were detectable, whereas after 5d many MCS were floating in the supernatant above the cells, remaining adherently (AD). The MCS resembled the ducts formed in vivo by human epithelial breast cells. In order to clarify the underlying mechanisms, we harvested MCS and AD cells separately from each RPM-culture and measured the expression of 29 selected genes with a known involvement in MCS formation. qPCR analyses indicated that cytoskeletal genes were unaltered in short-term samples. IL8, VEGFA and FLT1 were upregulated in 2 h/4 h AD-cultures. The ACTB, TUBB, EZR, RDX, FN1, VEGFA, FLK1 Casp9, Casp3, PRKCA mRNAs were downregulated in 5d-MCS-samples. ESR1 was upregulated in AD and PGR1 in both phenotypes after 5d. A pathway analysis revealed that the corresponding gene products are involved in organization and regulation of the cell shape, in cell tip formation and membrane to membrane docking.
Arhgap17, a RhoGTPase activating protein, regulates mucosal and epithelial barrier function in the mouse colon
Authors: Lee So-young , Kim Hwain , Kim Kyoungmi , Lee Hyunji , Lee Seungbok , Lee Daekee
Published: May 2016

Coordinated regulation of the actin cytoskeleton by the Rho GTPase family is required for the maintenance of polarity in epithelial cells as well as for their proliferation and migration. A RhoGTPase-activating protein 17 (Arhgap17) is known to be involved in multiple cellular processes in vitro, including the maintenance of tight junctions and vesicle trafficking. However, the function of Arhgap17 has not been studied in the physiological context. Here, we generated Arhgap17-deficient mice and examined the effect in the epithelial and mucosal barriers of the intestine. Reporter staining revealed that Arhgap17 expression is limited to the luminal epithelium of intestine. Arhgap17-deficient mice show an increased paracellular permeability and aberrant localization of the apical junction complex in the luminal epithelium, but do not develop spontaneous colitis. The inner mucus layer is impervious to the enteric bacteria irrespective of Tff3 downregulation in the Arhgap17-deficient mice. Interestingly however, treatment with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) causes an increased accumulation of DSS and TNF production in intraluminal cells and rapid destruction of the inner mucus layer, resulting in increased severity of colitis in mutant mice. Overall, these data reveal that Arhgap17 has a novel function in regulating transcellular transport and maintaining integrity of intestinal barriers.
Nicotinamide Riboside Opposes Type 2 Diabetes and Neuropathy in Mice
Authors: Trammell Samuel A.J. , Weidemann Benjamin J. , Chadda Ankita , Yorek Matthew S. , Holmes Amey , Coppey Lawrence J. , Obrosov Alexander , Kardon Randy H. , Yorek Mark A. , Brenner Charles
Published: May 2016

Male C57BL/6J mice raised on high fat diet (HFD) become prediabetic and develop insulin resistance and sensory neuropathy. The same mice given low doses of streptozotocin are a model of type 2 diabetes (T2D), developing hyperglycemia, severe insulin resistance and diabetic peripheral neuropathy involving sensory and motor neurons. Because of suggestions that increased NAD+ metabolism might address glycemic control and be neuroprotective, we treated prediabetic and T2D mice with nicotinamide riboside (NR) added to HFD. NR improved glucose tolerance, reduced weight gain, liver damage and the development of hepatic steatosis in prediabetic mice while protecting against sensory neuropathy. In T2D mice, NR greatly reduced non-fasting and fasting blood glucose, weight gain and hepatic steatosis while protecting against diabetic neuropathy. The neuroprotective effect of NR could not be explained by glycemic control alone. Corneal confocal microscopy was the most sensitive measure of neurodegeneration. This assay allowed detection of the protective effect of NR on small nerve structures in living mice. Quantitative metabolomics established that hepatic NADP+ and NADPH levels were significantly degraded in prediabetes and T2D but were largely protected when mice were supplemented with NR. The data justify testing of NR in human models of obesity, T2D and associated neuropathies.
Mechanism of impaired microtubule-dependent peroxisome trafficking and oxidative stress in SPAST-mutated cells from patients with Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia
Authors: Wali Gautam , Sutharsan Ratneswary , Fan Yongjun , Stewart Romal , Tello Velasquez Johana , Sue Carolyn M , Crane Denis I. , Mackay-Sim Alan
Published: May 2016

Hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) is an inherited neurological condition that leads to progressive spasticity and gait abnormalities. Adult-onset HSP is most commonly caused by mutations in SPAST, which encodes spastin a microtubule severing protein. In olfactory stem cell lines derived from patients carrying different SPAST mutations, we investigated microtubule-dependent peroxisome movement with time-lapse imaging and automated image analysis. The average speed of peroxisomes in patient-cells was slower, with fewer fast moving peroxisomes than in cells from healthy controls. This was not because of impairment of peroxisome-microtubule interactions because the time-dependent saltatory dynamics of movement of individual peroxisomes was unaffected in patient-cells. Our observations indicate that average peroxisome speeds are less in patient-cells because of the lower probability of individual peroxisome interactions with the reduced numbers of stable microtubules: peroxisome speeds in patient cells are restored by epothilone D, a tubulin-binding drug that increases the number of stable microtubules to control levels. Patient-cells were under increased oxidative stress and were more sensitive than control-cells to hydrogen peroxide, which is primarily metabolised by peroxisomal catalase. Epothilone D also ameliorated patient-cell sensitivity to hydrogen-peroxide. Our findings suggest a mechanism for neurodegeneration whereby SPAST mutations indirectly lead to impaired peroxisome transport and oxidative stress.
Label-free offline versus online activity methods for nucleoside diphosphate kinase b using high performance liquid chromatography
Authors: Lima Juliana Maria , Salmazo Vieira Plínio , Cavalcante de Oliveira Arthur Henrique , Cardoso Carmen Lúcia
Published: May 2016

Label-free methodologies for nucleoside diphosphate kinase fromLeishmaniaspp. (LmNDKb): anofflineLC-UV assay for solubleLmNDKb and anonlinetwo-dimensional LC-UV system based on immobilizedLmNDKb to help screenLmNDKb ligands and measure NDKb activity.
Detection of difenoconazole pesticides in pak choi by surface-enhanced Raman scattering spectroscopy coupled with gold nanoparticles
Authors: Huang Shuanggen , Yan Wu , Liu Muhua , Hu Jianping
Published: May 2016

Difenoconazole is a highly effective and broad-spectrum triazole bactericide pesticide and was generally applied to protect and cure foods such as vegetables and fruits.
Electronic interactions of i, i + 1 dithioamides: increased fluorescence quenching and evidence for n-to-π* interactions
Authors: Huang Yun , Ferrie John J. , Chen Xing , Zhang Yitao , Szantai-Kis D. Miklos , Chenoweth David M. , Petersson E. James
Published: May 2016

Adjacent thioamides can have electronic interactions that alter spectral properties and fluorescence quenching.
On the predictability of supramolecular interactions in molecular cocrystals – the view from the bench
Authors: Corpinot Mérina K. , Stratford Samuel A. , Arhangelskis Mihails , Anka-Lufford Jodie , Halasz Ivan , Judaš Nenad , Jones William , Bučar Dejan-Krešimir
Published: May 2016

A series of cocrystals involving theophylline and fluorobenzoic acids highlights the difficulty of predicting supramolecular interactions in molecular crystals.
Diels–Alder attachment of a planar organic molecule to a dangling bond dimer on a hydrogenated semiconductor surface
Authors: Godlewski Szymon , Kawai Hiroyo , Engelund Mads , Kolmer Marek , Zuzak Rafal , Garcia-Lekue Aran , Novell-Leruth Gerard , Echavarren Antonio M. , Sanchez-Portal Daniel , Joachim Christian , Saeys Mark
Published: May 2016

Reversible Diels–Alder attachment of a planar organic molecule to a dangling bond dimer is observed with a scanning tunneling microscope.
Lignin and soy oil-derived polymeric biocomposites by “grafting from” RAFT polymerization
Authors: Xu Yuzhi , Yuan Liang , Wang Zhongkai , Wilbon Perry A. , Wang Chunpeng , Chu Fuxiang , Tang Chuanbing
Published: May 2016

The “grafting from” RAFT enabled synthesis of soybean oil and lignin polymeric biocomposites that exhibit enhanced mechanical properties compared to linear polymers is reported.
From alcohol to 1,2,3-triazole via a multi-step continuous-flow synthesis of a rufinamide precursor
Authors: Borukhova Svetlana , Noël Timothy , Metten Bert , de Vos Eric , Hessel Volker
Published: May 2016

Bringing the strongest suits of flow chemistry together to deliver the greenest possible process for continuous manufacturing of a rufinamide precursor.
High resolution isotopic analysis of U-bearing particles via fusion of SIMS and EDS images
Authors: Tarolli Jay G. , Naes Benjamin E. , Garcia Benjamin J. , Fischer Ashley E. , Willingham David
Published: May 2016

The result of fusing energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) images of U-bearing particles.
Phenylmercury(ii) sulfanylpropenoates: an example of symmetrization with the 3-(2-methoxyphenyl)-2-sulfanylpropenoato ligand
Authors: Casas José S. , Couce María D. , García-Vega Manuel , Sánchez Agustín , Sordo José , Vázquez López Ezequiel M.
Published: May 2016

Some new phenylmercury(ii) sulfanylpropenoate complexes were prepared and characterized. The identification of diphenylmercury(ii) reveals the existence of a symmetrization process, which was followed in solution by NMR.
Two new bulky substituted Zn porphyrins bearing carboxylate anchoring groups as promising dyes for DSSCs
Authors: Charisiadis Asterios , Nikolaou Vasilis , Karikis Kostas , Giatagana Chrysa , Chalepli Konstantina , Ladomenou Kalliopi , Biswas Suhayan , Sharma Ganesh D. , Coutsolelos Athanassios G.
Published: May 2016

Two novel zinc-metallated porphyrins, bearing three and six long alkoxy chains at the periphery, have been synthesized as sensitizers in DSSCs.
Immobilization of a thiol-functionalized ionic liquid onto HKUST-1 through thiol compounds as the chemical bridge
Authors: Chen Chong , Wu Zuowang , Que Yigen , Li Bingxue , Guo Qirui , Li Zhong , Wang Lei , Wan Hui , Guan Guofeng
Published: May 2016

The IL@HKUST-1 catalyst was synthesized by a post-synthetic modification strategy. The introduction of ionic liquid greatly improved the acidity of the material, making it an efficient and recyclable catalyst for the esterification reaction.
Fabrication of montmorillonite and titanate nanotube based coatings via layer-by-layer self-assembly method to enhance the thermal stability, flame retardancy and ultraviolet protection of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fabric
Authors: Pan Ying , Wang Wei , Pan Haifeng , Zhan Jing , Hu Yuan
Published: May 2016

Montmorillonite and titanate nanotube based coatings have been prepared through LbL self-assembly method, in order to enhance the thermal and thermal-oxidative stability, flame retardancy and UV protection of polyethylene terephthalate fabric.
Fine tuning of molecular and supramolecular properties of simple trianglimines – the role of the functional group
Authors: Gajewy J. , Szymkowiak J. , Kwit M.
Published: May 2016

Readily available chiral, triangular poly-azamacrocycles can act as receptors, low molecular weight supergelators and ligands in asymmetric synthesis.
Novel I-BiOBr/BiPO4 heterostructure: synergetic effects of I− ion doping and the electron trapping role of wide-band-gap BiPO4 nanorods
Authors: Jia Xuemei , Cao Jing , Lin Haili , Zhang Meiyu , Guo Xiaomin , Chen Shifu
Published: May 2016

Outstanding activity of I-BiOBr/BiPO4 was displayed due to the synergetic effects of doped I− ions in I-BiOBr and I-BiOBr/BiPO4 interface.
The effect of iron doping on the photocatalytic activity of a Bi2WO6–BiVO4composite
Authors: Chaiwichian Saranyoo , Wetchakun Khatcharin , Phanichphant Sukon , Kangwansupamonkon Wiyong , Wetchakun Natda
Published: May 2016

The formation of Fe-doped Bi2WO6–BiVO4composites could improve the separation efficiency of photogenerated electron–hole pairs, then increasing its photocatalytic activity.
A “turn-off” fluorescent sensor for the selective and sensitive detection of copper(ii) ions using lysozyme stabilized gold nanoclusters
Authors: Shanmugaraj Krishnamoorthy , Ilanchelian Malaichamy
Published: May 2016

In this contribution, we have developed a simple, environmentally friendly fluorescent turn-off sensor for the detection of copper (Cu2+) ions in aqueous solution by using lysozyme stabilized gold nanoclusters (Lys-AuNCs) as a fluorescent probe.
Synthesis and NOx sensing evaluation of hollow/porous La0.8Sr0.2MnO3 microspheres
Authors: Suehiro Satoshi , Okawa Hajime , Takahashi Seiji
Published: May 2016

Fabrication La0.8Sr0.2MnO3 electrode using hollow/porous spherical particles and evaluation NO gas sensing for NOx gas sensor.
Fractionated crystallization, polymorphism and crystal transformation of poly(butylene adipate) confined in electrospun immiscible blend fibers with polystyrene
Authors: Ye Hai-Mu , Song Yun-Yang , Meng Xiaoyu , Zhou Qiong
Published: May 2016

Utilizing electrospun immiscible blend fibers of poly(butylene adipate) (PBA) and polystyrene (PS) and following coating by the high glass transition temperature poly(4-tert-butylstyrene) (P4tBS), confined PBA specimens in nanometer space were effectively prepared.
Influence of alkyl chain branching point on the electron transport properties of di(perylene diimides) thin film transistors
Authors: Zeng Cheng , Xiao Chengyi , Xin Rui , Jiang Wei , Wang Yafei , Wang Zhaohui
Published: May 2016

4CldiPDIs with different side-chain lengths and positions of the branching point was designed, synthesized, and characterized to study how the electron transporting properties vary with the branching point away from the perylene backbone.
Pd-catalyzed cross-coupling of 1,1-diborylalkanes with aryl triflates
Authors: Cui Long-Can , Zhang Zhen-Qi , Lu Xi , Xiao Bin , Fu Yao
Published: May 2016

The Pd-catalyzed synthesis of benzylboronic esters through coupling of aryl triflates with 1,1-diborylalkane under ambient conditions is described.
A comprehensive investigation of the differential interaction of human serum albumin with gold nanoparticles based on the variation in morphology and surface functionalization
Authors: Alex Sruthi Ann , Chakraborty Debolina , Chandrasekaran N. , Mukherjee Amitava
Published: May 2016

A systematic investigation on the effect of gold nanoparticle morphology and surface functionalization on the differential interaction of HSA was performed.
Air-stable ambipolar organic transistors based on charge-transfer complexes containing dibenzopyrrolopyrrole
Authors: Fujisue Chika , Kadoya Tomofumi , Higashino Toshiki , Sato Ryonosuke , Kawamoto Tadashi , Mori Takehiko
Published: May 2016

A charge-transfer complex of DBPP and DMDCNQI shows air-stable ambipolar transistor characteristics.
Enhanced power generation using nano cobalt oxide anchored nitrogen-decorated reduced graphene oxide as a high-performance air-cathode electrocatalyst in biofuel cells
Authors: Cao Chun , Wei Liling , Su Min , Wang Gang , Shen Jianquan
Published: May 2016

Power generation was improved using nano cobalt oxide anchored nitrogen-decorated graphene as oxygen reduction electrocatalyst in biofuel cells.
Reduction of selective polyaromatic nitrotriptycene via an azoxytriptycene intermediate under ambient conditions using a cobalt/cobalt oxide nanocomposite (CoNC)
Authors: Mohammad Akbar , Mishra Veenu , Chandra Prakash , Mobin Shaikh M.
Published: May 2016

Selectively targeted polyaromatic 2-nitrotriptycene (M1) and 2,6,14-trinitrotriptycene (M2) were chosen as model substrates for demonstrating catalytic hydrogenation, under ambient conditions, using a cobalt/cobalt oxide based nanocomposite (CoNC) as the catalytic material.
Alkali metals as efficient A-site acceptor dopants in proton conducting BaZrO3
Authors: Løken Andreas , Saeed Sarmad W. , Getz Marit N. , Liu Xin , Bjørheim Tor S.
Published: May 2016

The present contribution demonstrates that A-site acceptor doping of BaZrO3 by alkali metals may significantly enhance its bulk proton conductivity compared to that of Y-doped BaZrO3.
A biodegradable, all-polymer micromotor for gas sensing applications
Authors: Liu Mei , Sun Yunyu , Wang Taoping , Ye Zhenrong , Zhang Hui , Dong Bin , Li Christopher Y.
Published: May 2016

We report a biodegradable, all-polymer micromotor which can be utilized for gas sensing applications.
Ligand exchange as a tool to improve quantum dot miscibility in polymer composite layers used as luminescent down-shifting layers for photovoltaic applications
Authors: Draaisma Guy J. J. , Reardon Damien , Schenning Albertus P. H. J. , Meskers Stefan C. J. , Bastiaansen Cees W. M.
Published: May 2016

UV cured luminescent CuInS2/ZnS quantum dot–polymer composites are prepared, their ligands are exchanged with oligomeric ligands and these composites are evaluated as down-shifting layers.
Solvent and solute ingress into hydrogels resolved by a combination of imaging techniques
Authors: Wagner D. , Burbach J. , Grünzweig C. , Hartmann S. , Lehmann E. , Egelhaaf S. U. , Hermes H. E.
Published: May 2016

Using simultaneous neutron, fluorescence, and optical brightfield transmission imaging, the diffusion of solvent, fluorescent dyes, and macromolecules into a crosslinked polyacrylamide hydrogel was investigated. This novel combination of different imaging techniques enables us to distinguish the movements of the solvent and fluorescent molecules. Additionally, the swelling or deswelling of the hydrogels can be monitored. From the sequence of images, dye and solvent concentrations were extracted spatially and temporally resolved. Diffusion equations and different boundary conditions, represented by different models, were used to quantitatively analyze the temporal evolution of these concentration profiles and to determine the diffusion coefficients of solvent and solutes. Solute size and network properties were varied and their effect was investigated. Increasing the crosslinking ratio or partially drying the hydrogel was found to hinder solute diffusion due to the reduced pore size. By contrast, solvent diffusion seemed to be slightly faster if the hydrogel was only partially swollen and hence solvent uptake enhanced.
A fast dynamic mode in rare earth based glasses
Authors: Zhao L. Z. , Xue R. J. , Zhu Z. G. , Ngai K. L. , Wang W. H. , Bai H. Y.
Published: May 2016

Metallic glasses (MGs) usually exhibit only slow β-relaxation peak, and the signature of the fast dynamic is challenging to be observed experimentally in MGs. We report a general and unusual fast dynamic mode in a series of rare earth based MGs manifested as a distinct fast β′-relaxation peak in addition to slow β-relaxation and α-relaxation peaks. We show that the activation energy of the fast β′-relaxation is about 12RTg and is equivalent to the activation of localized flow event. The coupling of these dynamic processes as well as their relationship with glass transition and structural heterogeneity is discussed.
Vertical architecture for enhancement mode power transistors based on GaN nanowires
Authors: Yu F. , Rümmler D. , Hartmann J. , Caccamo L. , Schimpke T. , Strassburg M. , Gad A. E. , Bakin A. , Wehmann H.-H. , Witzigmann B. , Wasisto H. S. , Waag A.
Published: May 2016

The demonstration of vertical GaN wrap-around gated field-effect transistors using GaN nanowires is reported. The nanowires with smooth a-plane sidewalls have hexagonal geometry made by top-down etching. A 7-nanowire transistor exhibits enhancement mode operation with threshold voltage of 1.2 V, on/off current ratio as high as 108, and subthreshold slope as small as 68 mV/dec. Although there is space charge limited current behavior at small source-drain voltages (Vds), the drain current (Id) and transconductance (gm) reach up to 314 mA/mm and 125 mS/mm, respectively, when normalized with hexagonal nanowire circumference. The measured breakdown voltage is around 140 V. This vertical approach provides a way to next-generation GaN-based power devices.
Terahertz emission from SiC natural superlattices in strong electrical field
Authors: Sankin V. I. , Andrianov A. V. , Petrov A. G. , Zakhar'in A. O.
Published: May 2016

Results are reported from a study of the terahertz electroluminescence from 8H-, 6H-, and 4H-SiC natural superlattices under the action of an electrical field applied along the natural superlattice axis. It is shown that the single, relatively narrow emission lines (L1-lines) dominate in the electroluminescence spectrum at moderate bias voltages and follow the increase of the width of the first mini-band of the superlattice in accordance with the criterion for Bloch oscillations. At bias voltages well above the Bloch oscillation threshold, the structure of the terahertz emission spectra undergoes considerable changes, which occur due to the appearance of a new intense, broader emission line (L2-line) with a maximum at about 12–13 meV. Tentatively, this latter emission is attributed to optical transitions between Wannier-Stark ladders formed from degenerate states in a side minimum of the SiC conduction band under strong electric field conditions.
Detrimental effect of Sn-rich secondary phases on Cu2ZnSnSe4 based solar cells
Authors: Vauche L. , Risch L. , Arasimowicz M. , Sánchez Y. , Saucedo E. , Pasquinelli M. , Goislard de Monsabert T. , Grand P.-P. , Jaime-Ferrer S.
Published: May 2016

Earth-abundant kesterite Cu2ZnSnSe4 material is a promising candidate for the mass production of low-cost thin film solar cells. However, the synthesis of single-phase kesterite films is especially challenging, since the kesterite single-phase region in the equilibrium phase diagram is very narrow. In this study, the metal composition was varied within the Cu-poor composition range in order to study the presence of Sn-Se secondary phases. Both SnSe and SnSe2 are found in copper-poor CZTSe absorbers where Zn/Sn < 1; in addition, these phases are also found when Zn/Sn > 1 because the studied composition range is actually copper-poor zinc-rich and tin-rich. The Sn-Se secondary phases can be detected using X-ray diffraction, a bulk detection method. They are also detected at the absorber's surface by SEM and Raman spectroscopy. Therefore, when the Sn-Se phases are present, at least a part of them is located at the absorber's surface, which is highly detrimental to device performance. Acting as shunting paths, they reduce the device power conversion efficiency and demonstrate an apparent quantum efficiency effect under reverse bias. Removal of these phases from the surface by chemical etching greatly reduces their detrimental influence.