bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non-cell autonomous cues for enhanced functionality of human embryonic stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes via maturation of sarcolemmal and mitochondrial KATP channels
Authors: Keung Wendy , Ren Lihuan , Sen Li  , Wong Andy On-Tik , Chopra Anant , Kong Chi-Wing , Tomaselli Gordon F. , Chen Christopher S. , Li Ronald A.
Published: September 2016

Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) is a potential unlimited ex vivo source of ventricular (V) cardiomyocytes (CMs), but hESC-VCMs and their engineered tissues display immature traits. In adult VCMs, sarcolemmal (sarc) and mitochondrial (mito) ATP-sensitive potassium (KATP) channels play crucial roles in excitability and cardioprotection. In this study, we aim to investigate the biological roles and use of sarcKATP and mitoKATP in hESC-VCM. We showed that SarcIK, ATP in single hESC-VCMs was dormant under baseline conditions, but became markedly activated by cyanide (CN) or the known opener P1075 with a current density that was ~8-fold smaller than adult; These effects were reversible upon washout or the addition of GLI or HMR1098. Interestingly, sarcIK, ATP displayed a ~3-fold increase after treatment with hypoxia (5% O2). MitoIK, ATP was absent in hESC-VCMs. However, the thyroid hormone T3 up-regulated mitoIK, ATP, conferring diazoxide protective effect on T3-treated hESC-VCMs. When assessed using a multi-cellular engineered 3D ventricular cardiac micro-tissue (hvCMT) system, T3 substantially enhanced the developed tension by 3-folds. Diazoxide also attenuated the decrease in contractility induced by simulated ischemia (1% O2). We conclude that hypoxia and T3 enhance the functionality of hESC-VCMs and their engineered tissues by selectively acting on sarc and mitoIK, ATP.
Simulating the Evolution of Functional Brain Networks in Alzheimer’s Disease: Exploring Disease Dynamics from the Perspective of Global Activity
Authors: Li Wei , Wang Miao , Zhu Wenzhen , Qin Yuanyuan , Huang Yue , Chen Xi
Published: September 2016

Functional brain connectivity is altered during the pathological processes of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), but the specific evolutional rules are insufficiently understood. Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging indicates that the functional brain networks of individuals with AD tend to be disrupted in hub-like nodes, shifting from a small world architecture to a random profile. Here, we proposed a novel evolution model based on computational experiments to simulate the transition of functional brain networks from normal to AD. Specifically, we simulated the rearrangement of edges in a pathological process by a high probability of disconnecting edges between hub-like nodes, and by generating edges between random pair of nodes. Subsequently, four topological properties and a nodal distribution were used to evaluate our model. Compared with random evolution as a null model, our model captured well the topological alteration of functional brain networks during the pathological process. Moreover, we implemented two kinds of network attack to imitate the damage incurred by the brain in AD. Topological changes were better explained by ‘hub attacks’ than by ‘random attacks’, indicating the fragility of hubs in individuals with AD. This model clarifies the disruption of functional brain networks in AD, providing a new perspective on topological alterations.
Coexistence of multiple minor states of fatty acid binding protein and their functional relevance
Authors: Yu Binhan , Yang Daiwen
Published: September 2016

Proteins are dynamic over a wide range of timescales, but determining the number of distinct dynamic processes and identifying functionally relevant dynamics are still challenging. Here we present the study on human intestinal fatty acid binding protein (hIFABP) using a novel analysis of 15N relaxation dispersion (RD) and chemical shift saturation transfer (CEST) experiments. Through combined analysis of the two types of experiments, we found that hIFABP exists in a four-state equilibrium in which three minor states interconvert directly with the major state. According to conversion rates from the major “closed” state to minor states, these minor states are irrelevant to the function of fatty acid transport. Based on chemical shifts of the minor states which could not be determined from RD data alone but were extracted from a combined analysis of RD and CEST data, we found that all the minor states are native-like. This conclusion is further supported by hydrogen-deuterium exchange experiments. Direct conversions between the native state and native-like intermediate states may suggest parallel multitrack unfolding/folding pathways of hIFABP. Moreover, hydrogen-deuterium exchange data indicate the existence of another locally unfolded minor state that is relevant to the fatty acid entry process.
Embryonic type Na+ channel β-subunit, SCN3B masks the disease phenotype of Brugada syndrome
Authors: Okata Shinichiro , Yuasa Shinsuke , Suzuki Tomoyuki , Ito Shogo , Makita Naomasa , Yoshida Tetsu , Li Min , Kurokawa Junko , Seki Tomohisa , Egashira Toru , Aizawa Yoshiyasu , Kodaira Masaki , Motoda Chikaaki , Yozu Gakuto , Shimojima Masaya , Hayashiji Nozomi , Hashimoto Hisayuki , Kuroda Yusuke , Tanaka Atsushi , Murata Mitsushige , Aiba Takeshi , Shimizu Wataru , Horie Minoru , Kamiya Kaichiro , Furukawa Tetsushi , Fukuda Keiichi
Published: September 2016

SCN5A is abundant in heart and has a major role in INa. Loss-of-function mutation in SCN5A results in Brugada syndrome (BrS), which causes sudden death in adults. It remains unclear why disease phenotype does not manifest in the young even though mutated SCN5A is expressed in the young. The aim of the present study is to elucidate the timing of the disease manifestation in BrS. A gain-of-function mutation in SCN5A also results in Long QT syndrome type 3 (LQTS3), leading to sudden death in the young. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) were generated from a patient with a mixed phenotype of LQTS3 and BrS with the E1784K SCN5A mutation. Here we show that electrophysiological analysis revealed that LQTS3/BrS iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes recapitulate the phenotype of LQTS3 but not BrS. Each β-subunit of the sodium channel is differentially expressed in embryonic and adult hearts. SCN3B is highly expressed in embryonic hearts and iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes. A heterologous expression system revealed that INa of mutated SCN5A is decreased and SCN3B augmented INa of mutated SCN5A. Knockdown of SCN3B in LQTS3/BrS iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes successfully unmasked the phenotype of BrS. Isogenic control of LQTS3/BrS (corrected-LQTS3/BrS) iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes gained the normal electrophysiological properties.
Bird diversity and abundance in organic and conventional apple orchards in northern Japan
Authors: Katayama Naoki
Published: September 2016

Many studies have investigated the benefits of agri-environmental schemes, such as organic farming, on biodiversity conservation in annual systems, but their effectiveness in perennial systems is less well understood, particularly in bird communities in temperate regions of Asia. This study examined the effects of organic farming practices on species richness and abundance of breeding birds in apple orchards in northern Japan. Bird counts were conducted in six pairs of organic and conventional orchards during the breeding season in April and May 2015. The total species richness of birds, estimated by sample- and coverage-based rarefaction and extrapolation curves, was greater in organic orchards than in conventional orchards. Among the three dietary guilds (insectivore, granivore, and omnivore), only insectivorous species were more abundant in organic orchards than in conventional ones. This study offers the first quantitative evidence that organic farming can be beneficial for enhancing the diversity of birds, particularly of insectivores, in fruit orchards in Japan.
Loss of Dnmt3a induces CLL and PTCL with distinct methylomes and transcriptomes in mice
Authors: Haney Staci L. , Upchurch Garland M. , Opavska Jana , Klinkebiel David , Appiah Adams Kusi , Smith Lynette M. , Heavican Tayla B. , Iqbal Javeed , Joshi Shantaram , Opavsky Rene
Published: September 2016

Cytosine methylation of DNA is an epigenetic modification involved in the repression of genes that affect biological processes including hematopoiesis. It is catalyzed by DNA methyltransferases, one of which -DNMT3A- is frequently mutated in human hematologic malignancies. We have previously reported that Dnmt3a inactivation in hematopoietic stem cells results in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and CD8-positive peripheral T cell lymphomas (PTCL) in EμSRα-tTA;Teto-Cre;Dnmt3afl/fl; Rosa26LOXPEGFP/EGFP (Dnmt3aΔ/Δ) mice. The extent to which molecular changes overlap between these diseases is not clear. Using high resolution global methylation and expression analysis we show that whereas patterns of methylation and transcription in normal B-1a cells and CD8-positive T cells are similar, methylomes and transcriptomes in malignant B-1a and CD8+ T cells are remarkably distinct, suggesting a cell-type specific function for Dnmt3a in cellular transformation. Promoter hypomethylation in tumors was 10 times more frequent than hypermethylation, three times more frequent in CLL than PTCL and correlated better with gene expression than hypermethylation. Cross-species molecular comparison of mouse and human CLL and PTCL reveals significant overlaps and identifies putative oncogenic drivers of disease. Thus, Dnmt3aΔ/Δ mice can serve as a new mouse model to study CLL and PTCL in relevant physiological settings.
Temporal patterns in the soundscape of the shallow waters of a Mediterranean marine protected area
Authors: Buscaino Giuseppa , Ceraulo Maria , Pieretti Nadia , Corrias Valentina , Farina Almo , Filiciotto Francesco , Maccarrone Vincenzo , Grammauta Rosario , Caruso Francesco , Giuseppe Alonge , Mazzola Salvatore
Published: September 2016

The study of marine soundscapes is an emerging field of research that contributes important information about biological compositions and environmental conditions. The seasonal and circadian soundscape trends of a marine protected area (MPA) in the Mediterranean Sea have been studied for one year using an autonomous acoustic recorder. Frequencies less than 1 kHz are dominated by noise generated by waves and are louder during the winter; conversely, higher frequencies (4–96 kHz) are dominated by snapping shrimp, which increase their acoustic activity at night during the summer. Fish choruses, below 2 kHz, characterize the soundscape at sunset during the summer. Because there are 13 vessel passages per hour on average, causing acoustic interference with fish choruses 46% of the time, this MPA cannot be considered to be protected from noise. On the basis of the high seasonal variability of the soundscape components, this study proposes a one-year acoustic monitoring protocol using the soundscape methodology approach and discusses the concept of MPA size.
Aguamiel concentrate from Agave salmiana and its extracted saponins attenuated obesity and hepatic steatosis and increased Akkermansia muciniphila in C57BL6 mice
Authors: Leal-Díaz Ana María , Noriega Lilia G. , Torre-Villalvazo Ivan , Torres Nimbe , Alemán-Escondrillas Gabriela , López-Romero Patricia , Sánchez-Tapia Mónica , Aguilar-López Miriam , Furuzawa-Carballeda Janette , Velázquez-Villegas Laura A. , Avila-Nava Azalia , Ordáz Guillermo , Gutiérrez-Uribe Janet A. , Serna-Saldivar Sergio O. , Tovar Armando R.
Published: September 2016

Obesity and its comorbidities are a severe public health problem worldwide. The use of bioactive compounds found in some foods has been demonstrated to ameliorate the metabolic abnormalities associated with obesity. The purpose of this study was to assess whether the bioactive compounds present in aguamiel concentrate (AC) from Agave salmiana could attenuate glucose intolerance and hepatic steatosis in mice fed a high fat (HF) diet. HPLC-ELSD analysis showed that AC contained several saponins. The consumption of an AC extract rich in saponins reduced weight gain and fat mass and lowered serum glucose, insulin and LDL-cholesterol levels in mice fed a HF diet. Additionally, mice fed the saponin extract exhibited a reduced HOMA index and hepatic lipid levels and increased expression of genes involved in fatty acid oxidation. Saponins increased white adipose tissue browning, AMPK phosphorylation, fatty acid oxidation and mitochondrial activity in skeletal muscle and energy expenditure in mice fed the HF diet. These metabolic changes were accompanied by an increase in the abundance of Akkermansia muciniphila in the gut microbiota. Therefore, Agave salmiana saponins can be an alternative to attenuate the metabolic changes that accompany obesity.
Losartan reduces ensuing chronic kidney disease and mortality after acute kidney injury
Authors: Cheng Shun-Yang , Chou Yu-Hsiang , Liao Fang-Ling , Lin Chi-Chun , Chang Fan-Chi , Liu Chia-Hao , Huang Tao-Min , Lai Chun-Fu , Lin Yu-Feng , Wu Vin-Cent , Chu Tzong-Shinn , Wu Ming-Shiou , Lin Shuei-Liong
Published: September 2016

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is an important risk factor for incident chronic kidney disease (CKD). Clinical studies disclose that ensuing CKD progresses after functional recovery from AKI, but the underlying mechanisms remain illusive. Using a murine model representing AKI-CKD continuum, we show angiotensin II type 1a (AT1a) receptor signaling as one of the underlying mechanisms. Male adult CD-1 mice presented severe AKI with 20% mortality within 2 weeks after right nephrectomy and left renal ischemia-reperfusion injury. Despite functional recovery, focal tubular atrophy, interstitial cell infiltration and fibrosis, upregulation of genes encoding angiotensinogen and AT1a receptor were shown in kidneys 4 weeks after AKI. Thereafter mice manifested increase of blood pressure, albuminuria and azotemia progressively. Drinking water with or without losartan or hydralazine was administered to mice from 4 weeks after AKI. Increase of mortality, blood pressure, albuminuria, azotemia and kidney fibrosis was noted in mice with vehicle administration during the 5-month experimental period. On the contrary, these parameters in mice with losartan administration were reduced to the levels shown in control group. Hydralazine did not provide similar beneficial effect though blood pressure was controlled. These findings demonstrate that losartan can reduce ensuing CKD and mortality after functional recovery from AKI.
Spin-dependent manipulating of vector beams by tailoring polarization
Authors: Zhou Junxiao , Zhang Wenshuai , Liu Yachao , Ke Yougang , Liu Yuanyuan , Luo Hailu , Wen Shuangchun
Published: September 2016

We examine the spin-dependent manipulating of vector beams by tailoring the inhomogeneous polarization. The spin-dependent manipulating is attributed to the spin-dependent phase gradient in vector beams, which can be regarded as the intrinsic feature of inhomogeneous polarization. The desired polarization can be obtained by establishing the relationship between the local orientation of polarization and the local orientation of the optical axis of waveplate. We demonstrate that the spin-dependent manipulating with arbitrary intensity patterns can be achieved by tailoring the inhomogeneous polarization.
Retinoic acid and meiosis induction in adult versus embryonic gonads of medaka
Authors: Adolfi Mateus C. , Herpin Amaury , Regensburger Martina , Sacquegno Jacopo , Waxman Joshua S. , Schartl Manfred
Published: September 2016

In vertebrates, one of the first recognizable sex differences in embryos is the onset of meiosis, known to be regulated by retinoic acid (RA) in mammals. We investigated in medaka a possible meiotic function of RA during the embryonic sex determination (SD) period and in mature gonads. We found RA mediated transcriptional activation in germ cells of both sexes much earlier than the SD stage, however, no such activity during the critical stages of SD. In adults, expression of the RA metabolizing enzymes indicates sexually dimorphic RA levels. In testis, RA acts directly in Sertoli, Leydig and pre-meiotic germ cells. In ovaries, RA transcriptional activity is highest in meiotic oocytes. Our results show that RA plays an important role in meiosis induction and gametogenesis in adult medaka but contrary to common expectations, not for initiating the first meiosis in female germ cells at the SD stage.
The effect of rod orientation on electrical anisotropy in silver nanowire networks for ultra-transparent electrodes
Authors: Ackermann Thomas , Neuhaus Raphael , Roth Siegmar
Published: September 2016

Two-dimensional networks made of metal nanowires are excellent paradigms for the experimental observation of electrical percolation caused by continuous jackstraw-like physical pathways. Such systems became very interesting as alternative material in transparent electrodes, which are fundamental components in display devices. This work presents the experimental characterization of low-haze and ultra-transparent electrodes based on silver nanowires. The films are created by dip-coating, a feasible and scalable liquid film coating technique. We have found dominant alignment of the silver nanowires in withdrawal direction. The impact of this structural anisotropy on electrical anisotropy becomes more pronounced for low area coverage. The rod alignment does not influence the technical usability of the films as significant electrical anisotropy occurs only at optical transmission higher than 99 %. For films with lower transmission, electrical anisotropy becomes negligible. In addition to the experimental work, we have carried out computational studies in order to explain our findings further and compare them to our experiments and previous literature. This paper presents the first experimental observation of electrical anisotropy in two-dimensional silver nanowire networks close at the percolation threshold.
Repurposing clinically approved cephalosporins for tuberculosis therapy
Authors: Ramón-García Santiago , González del Río Rubén , Villarejo Angel Santos , Sweet Gaye D. , Cunningham Fraser , Barros David , Ballell Lluís , Mendoza-Losana Alfonso , Ferrer-Bazaga Santiago , Thompson Charles J.
Published: September 2016

While modern cephalosporins developed for broad spectrum antibacterial activities have never been pursued for tuberculosis (TB) therapy, we identified first generation cephalosporins having clinically relevant inhibitory concentrations, both alone and in synergistic drug combinations. Common chemical patterns required for activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis were identified using structure-activity relationships (SAR) studies. Numerous cephalosporins were synergistic with rifampicin, the cornerstone drug for TB therapy and ethambutol, a first-line anti-TB drug. Synergy was observed even under intracellular growth conditions where beta-lactams typically have limited activities. Cephalosporins and rifampicin were 4- to 64-fold more active in combination than either drug alone; however, limited synergy was observed with rifapentine or rifabutin. Clavulanate was a key synergistic partner in triple combinations. Cephalosporins (and other beta-lactams) together with clavulanate rescued the activity of rifampicin against a rifampicin resistant strain. Synergy was not due exclusively to increased rifampicin accumulation within the mycobacterial cells. Cephalosporins were also synergistic with new anti-TB drugs such as bedaquiline and delamanid. Studies will be needed to validate their in vivo activities. However, the fact that cephalosporins are orally bioavailable with good safety profiles, together with their anti-mycobacterial activities reported here, suggest that they could be repurposed within new combinatorial TB therapies.
Comparative transcriptome assembly and genome-guided profiling for Brettanomyces bruxellensis LAMAP2480 during p-coumaric acid stress
Authors: Godoy Liliana , Vera-Wolf Patricia , Martinez Claudio , Ugalde Juan A. , Ganga María Angélica
Published: September 2016

Brettanomyces bruxellensis has been described as the main contaminant yeast in wine production, due to its ability to convert the hydroxycinnamic acids naturally present in the grape phenolic derivatives, into volatile phenols. Currently, there are no studies in B. bruxellensis which explains the resistance mechanisms to hydroxycinnamic acids, and in particular to p-coumaric acid which is directly involved in alterations to wine. In this work, we performed a transcriptome analysis of B. bruxellensis LAMAP248rown in the presence and absence of p-coumaric acid during lag phase. Because of reported genetic variability among B. bruxellensis strains, to complement de novo assembly of the transcripts, we used the high-quality genome of B. bruxellensis AWRI1499, as well as the draft genomes of strains CBS2499 and0 g LAMAP2480. The results from the transcriptome analysis allowed us to propose a model in which the entrance of p-coumaric acid to the cell generates a generalized stress condition, in which the expression of proton pump and efflux of toxic compounds are induced. In addition, these mechanisms could be involved in the outflux of nitrogen compounds, such as amino acids, decreasing the overall concentration and triggering the expression of nitrogen metabolism genes.
Insulin enhanced leptin-induced STAT3 signaling by inducing GRP78
Authors: Thon Mina , Hosoi Toru , Ozawa Koichiro
Published: September 2016

Leptin, an adipocyte-derived hormone, centrally regulates energy homeostasis. Overlaps in the regulation of glucose and energy homeostasis have been reported between leptin and insulin. However, the effects of insulin on leptin’s actions in the central nervous system (CNS) have not yet been elucidated in detail. In the present study, we found that insulin potentiated leptin’s actions through GRP78 in the neuronal cell line, SH-SY5Y-ObRb. Since insulin induces GRP78, we speculated that it may also enhance leptin’s actions through this induction. We found that insulin enhanced leptin-induced STAT3 phosphorylation and this effect was ameliorated by the knockdown of GRP78. The role of GRP78 in leptin’s actions was also confirmed by impairments in leptin-induced STAT3 phosphorylation in HEK293-ObRb cells in which GRP78 was knocked down. Furthermore, we found that the overexpression of GRP78 enhanced leptin-induced STAT3 phosphorylation. These results suggest that GRP78 plays an important role in leptin’s actions. Furthermore, insulin may enhance the leptin-induced activation of STAT3 by inducing GRP78, which may provide an important connection between insulin and leptin in the CNS.
Roll-to-roll slot-die coating of 400 mm wide, flexible, transparent Ag nanowire films for flexible touch screen panels
Authors: Kim Dong-Ju , Shin Hae-In , Ko Eun-Hye , Kim Ki-Hyun , Kim Tae-Woong , Kim Han-Ki
Published: September 2016

We report fabrication of large area Ag nanowire (NW) film coated using a continuous roll-to-roll (RTR) slot die coater as a viable alternative to conventional ITO electrodes for cost-effective and large-area flexible touch screen panels (TSPs). By controlling the flow rate of shear-thinning Ag NW ink in the slot die, we fabricated Ag NW percolating network films with different sheet resistances (30–70 Ohm/square), optical transmittance values (89–90%), and haze (0.5–1%) percentages. Outer/inner bending, twisting, and rolling tests as well as dynamic fatigue tests demonstrated that the mechanical flexibility of the slot-die coated Ag NW films was superior to that of conventional ITO films. Using diamond-shape patterned Ag NW layer electrodes (50 Ohm/square, 90% optical transmittance), we fabricated 12-inch flexible film-film type and rigid glass-film-film type TSPs. Successful operation of flexible TSPs with Ag NW electrodes indicates that slot-die-coated large-area Ag NW films are promising low cost, high performance, and flexible transparent electrodes for cost-effective large-area flexible TSPs and can be substituted for ITO films, which have high sheet resistance and are brittle.
Independent multimerization of Latent TGFβ Binding Protein-1 stabilized by cross-linking and enhanced by heparan sulfate
Authors: Troilo Helen , Steer Ruth , Collins Richard F. , Kielty Cay M. , Baldock Clair
Published: September 2016

TGFβ plays key roles in fibrosis and cancer progression, and latency is conferred by covalent linkage to latent TGFβ binding proteins (LTBPs). LTBP1 is essential for TGFβ folding, secretion, matrix localization and activation but little is known about its structure due to its inherent size and flexibility. Here we show that LTBP1 adopts an extended conformation with stable matrix-binding N-terminus, extended central array of 11 calcium-binding EGF domains and flexible TGFβ-binding C-terminus. Moreover we demonstrate that LTBP1 forms short filament-like structures independent of other matrix components. The termini bind to each other to facilitate linear extension of the filament, while the N-terminal region can serve as a branch-point. Multimerization is enhanced in the presence of heparin and stabilized by the matrix cross-linking enzyme transglutaminase-2. These assemblies will extend the span of LTBP1 to potentially allow simultaneous N-terminal matrix and C-terminal fibrillin interactions providing tethering for TGFβ activation by mechanical force.
Serum Galectin-3 Levels Predict Recurrences after Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Clementy Nicolas , Benhenda Nazih , Piver Eric , Pierre Bertrand , Bernard Anne , Fauchier Laurent , Pages Jean-Christophe , Babuty Dominique
Published: September 2016

Galectin-3 is a biomarker of fibrosis and atrial remodeling, involved in the mechanisms of initiation and maintenance of atrial fibrillation (AF). We sought to study the accuracy of galectin-3 level in predicting recurrences of AF after ablation. Serum concentrations of galectin-3 were determined in a consecutive series of patients addressed for AF ablation in our center. After a 3-month blanking period, recurrences of atrial arrhythmias were collected during the first year in all patients, using Holter monitoring at 3, 6 months and 12 months. A total of 160 patients were included, with a mean galectin-3 rate was 14.4 ± 5.6 ng/mL. At 12-month, 55 patients (34%) had reexperienced sustained atrial arrhythmia. Only higher galectin-3 level (HR = 1.07 [1.01–1.12], p = 0.02) and larger left atrial diameter (HR = 1.07 [1.03–1.12], p = 0.001) independently predicted recurrence. Patients with both galectin-3 level <15 ng/mL and left atrial diameter <40 millimeters had a 1-year arrhythmia-free survival rate − after a single procedure without anti-arrhythmic drug − of 91%, as compared with 41% in patients with galectin-3 ≥ 15 and left trial diameter ≥40 (p < 0.0001), whether AF was paroxysmal or persistent. Galectin-3 and left atrial diameters, rather than clinical presentation of AF, predict recurrences after ablation.
In vivo formation of natural HgSe nanoparticles in the liver and brain of pilot whales
Authors: Gajdosechova Zuzana , Lawan Mohammed M. , Urgast Dagmar S. , Raab Andrea , Scheckel Kirk G. , Lombi Enzo , Kopittke Peter M. , Loeschner Katrin , Larsen Erik H. , Woods Glenn , Brownlow Andrew , Read Fiona L. , Feldmann Jörg , Krupp Eva M.
Published: September 2016

To understand the biochemistry of methylmercury (MeHg) that leads to the formation of mercury-selenium (Hg-Se) clusters is a long outstanding challenge that promises to deepen our knowledge of MeHg detoxification and the role Se plays in this process. Here, we show that mercury selenide (HgSe) nanoparticles in the liver and brain of long-finned pilot whales are attached to Se-rich structures and possibly act as a nucleation point for the formation of large Se-Hg clusters, which can grow with age to over 5 μm in size. The detoxification mechanism is fully developed from the early age of the animals, with particulate Hg found already in juvenile tissues. As a consequence of MeHg detoxification, Se-methionine, the selenium pool in the system is depleted in the efforts to maintain essential levels of Se-cysteine. This study provides evidence of so far unreported depletion of the bioavailable Se pool, a plausible driving mechanism of demonstrated neurotoxic effects of MeHg in the organism affected by its high dietary intake.
Phase-dependent dynamic potential of magnetically coupled two-degree-of-freedom bistable energy harvester
Authors: Kim Pilkee , Nguyen Minh Sang , Kwon Ojin , Kim Young-Jin , Yoon Yong-Jin
Published: September 2016

A system of magnetically coupled oscillators has been recently considered as a promising compact structure to integrate multiple bistable energy harvesters (BEHs), but its design is not straightforward owing to its varying potential energy pattern, which has not been understood completely yet. This study introduces the concept of phase-dependent dynamic potential in a magnetically coupled BEH system with two degrees of freedom (DOFs) to explain the underlying principle of the complicated dynamics of the system. Through theoretical simulations and analyses, two distinct dynamic regimes, called the out-of-phase and in-phase mode regimes in this report, are found to exist in the frequency regions of the 1st and 2nd primary intrawell resonances. For the out-of-phase mode regime, the frequency displacement (and output power) responses of the 2-DOF BEH system exhibit typical double-well dynamics, whereas for the in-phase mode regime, only single-well dynamics is observed though the system is statically bistable. These dynamic regimes are also revealed to be caused by the difference in the dynamic potential energy trajectories propagating on a high-dimensional potential energy surface. The present approach to the dynamics of the 2-DOF BEH system can be extended and applied to higher-DOF systems, which sheds light on compact and efficient designs of magnetically coupled BEH chain structures.
Influence of symmetry breaking degrees on surface plasmon polaritons propagation in branched silver nanowire waveguides
Authors: Hua Jiaojiao , Wu Fan , Xu Zhongfeng , Wang Wenhui
Published: September 2016

Surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs)-based nanowire (NW) waveguides demonstrate promising potentials in the integrated nanophotonic circuits and devices. The realization of controlling SPPs propagation in NWs is significant for the performance of nanophotonic devices when employed for special function. In this work, we report the effect of symmetry breaking degrees on SPPs propagation behavior in manually fabricated branched silver NW structures. The symmetry breaking degree can be tuned by the angle between main NW and branch NW, which influences the emissions at the junction and the main NW terminal in a large extent. Our results illustrate the significance of symmetry breaking degree on SPPs propagation in NW-based waveguides which is crucial for designing the future nanophotonic circuits.
Resveratrol suppresses NTHi-induced inflammation via up-regulation of the negative regulator MyD88 short
Authors: Andrews Carla S. , Matsuyama Shingo , Lee Byung-Cheol , Li Jian-Dong
Published: September 2016

Upper respiratory tract inflammatory diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD) affect more than one-half billion people globally and are characterized by chronic inflammation that is often exacerbated by respiratory pathogens such as nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi). The increasing numbers of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains and the limited success of currently available pharmaceuticals used to manage the symptoms of these diseases present an urgent need for the development of novel anti-inflammatory therapeutic agents. Resveratrol has long been thought as an interesting therapeutic agent for various diseases including inflammatory diseases. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying its anti-inflammatory properties remain largely unknown. Here we show for the first time that resveratrol decreases expression of pro-inflammatory mediators in airway epithelial cells and in the lung of mice by enhancing NTHi-induced MyD88 short, a negative regulator of inflammation, via inhibition of ERK1/2 activation. Furthermore, resveratrol inhibits NTHi-induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation by increasing MKP-1 expression via a cAMP-PKA-dependent signaling pathway. Finally, we show that resveratrol has anti-inflammatory effects post NTHi infection, thereby demonstrating its therapeutic potential. Together these data reveal a novel mechanism by which resveratrol alleviates NTHi-induced inflammation in airway disease by up-regulating the negative regulator of inflammation MyD88s.
A new design for a green calcium indicator with a smaller size and a reduced number of calcium-binding sites
Authors: Barykina Natalia V. , Subach Oksana M. , Doronin Danila A. , Sotskov Vladimir P. , Roshchina Marina A. , Kunitsyna Tatiana A. , Malyshev Aleksey Y. , Smirnov Ivan V. , Azieva Asya M. , Sokolov Ilya S. , Piatkevich Kiryl D. , Burtsev Mikhail S. , Varizhuk Anna M. , Pozmogova Galina E. , Anokhin Konstantin V. , Subach Fedor V. , Enikolopov Grigori N.
Published: September 2016

Genetically encoded calcium indicators (GECIs) are mainly represented by two- or one-fluorophore-based sensors. One type of two-fluorophore-based sensor, carrying Opsanus troponin C (TnC) as the Ca2+-binding moiety, has two binding sites for calcium ions, providing a linear response to calcium ions. One-fluorophore-based sensors have four Ca2+-binding sites but are better suited for in vivo experiments. Herein, we describe a novel design for a one-fluorophore-based GECI with two Ca2+-binding sites. The engineered sensor, called NTnC, uses TnC as the Ca2+-binding moiety, inserted in the mNeonGreen fluorescent protein. Monomeric NTnC has higher brightness and pH-stability in vitro compared with the standard GECI GCaMP6s. In addition, NTnC shows an inverted fluorescence response to Ca2+. Using NTnC, we have visualized Ca2+ dynamics during spontaneous activity of neuronal cultures as confirmed by control NTnC and its mutant, in which the affinity to Ca2+ is eliminated. Using whole-cell patch clamp, we have demonstrated that NTnC dynamics in neurons are similar to those of GCaMP6s and allow robust detection of single action potentials. Finally, we have used NTnC to visualize Ca2+ neuronal activity in vivo in the V1 cortical area in awake and freely moving mice using two-photon microscopy or an nVista miniaturized microscope.
A novel class of gas separation membrane based on organic ionic plastic crystals
Authors: McDonald Jonathan L. , MacFarlane Douglas R. , Forsyth Maria , Pringle Jennifer M.
Published: September 2016

The first demonstration of organic ionic plastic crystal-based membranes for CO2 separation.
Regioselective preparation of a bis-pyrazolinofullerene by a macrocyclization reaction
Authors: Cuesta Virginia , Urbani Maxence , de la Cruz Pilar , Welte Lorena , Nierengarten Jean-François , Langa Fernando
Published: September 2016

A single isomer of a pyrazolinofullerene bis-adduct was prepared by tether-directed remote functionalization. This bis-adduct has a lower LUMO than C60.
Steric hindrance inhibition of strand displacement for homogeneous and signal-on fluorescence detection of human serum antibodies
Authors: Peng Ying , Li Xin , Yuan Ruo , Xiang Yun
Published: September 2016

Steric hindrance inhibition of strand displacement enables homogeneous and signal-on fluorescence detection of human serum antibodies.
Aluminium-mediated aromatic C–F bond activation: regioswitchable construction of benzene-fused triphenylene frameworks
Authors: Suzuki Naoto , Fujita Takeshi , Amsharov Konstantin Yu. , Ichikawa Junji
Published: September 2016

Aluminium-mediated selective synthesis of benzo[f]tetraphenes or benzo[g]chrysenes was achieved via aromatic C–F bond cleavage and regioselective C–C bond formation.
Construction of a pillar[6]arene based water-soluble supramolecular pseudopolyrotaxane driven by cucurbit[8]uril-enhanced π–π interaction
Authors: Yang Jie , Shao Li , Yuan Jiayin , Huang Feihe
Published: September 2016

A water-soluble pillar[6]arene-based linear supramolecular pseudopolyrotaxane with controlled compositions and structures connected through cucurbit[8]uril host-enhanced π–π interaction was successfully fabricated.
Metal ion-modulated self-assembly of pseudo-suit[3]anes using crown ether-based terpyridine metalloprisms
Authors: Wang Yun-Chi , Liang Yen-Peng , Cai Jhen-Yu , He Yun-Jui , Lee Yin-Hsuan , Chan Yi-Tsu
Published: September 2016

The host–guest inclusion rates of two metallo-supramolecular pseudo-suit[3]anes are modulated by metal–terpyridine interactions in the metallo-suits.
Nanostructural adsorption of vanadium oxide on functionalized graphene: a DFT study
Authors: Ayissi Serge , Palotás Krisztián , Qin Hanna , Yang Lijuan , Charpentier Paul A.
Published: September 2016

Electrostatic Potential (EP) contours of rutile and M1-monoclinic vanadium oxide nanostructures adsorbed on hollow sites of pure graphene showing respectively horizontal and vertical growth tendencies.
A comparative AFM study of the interfacial nanostructure in imidazolium or pyrrolidinium ionic liquid electrolytes for zinc electrochemical systems
Authors: Begić Srđan , Li Hua , Atkin Rob , Hollenkamp Anthony F. , Howlett Patrick C.
Published: September 2016

AFM measurements show that the electrochemical performance of zinc based ionic liquid electrolytes is controlled by ion arrangements at the electrode surface.
Theoretical and experimental investigations of rate coefficients of O(1D) + CH4 at low temperature
Authors: Meng Qingyong , Hickson Kevin M. , Shao Kejie , Loison Jean-Christophe , Zhang Dong H.
Published: September 2016

The O(1D) + CH4 rates from RPMD and VUV-LIF are close to each other in the temperature range of the atmosphere.
Theoretical design of magnetic wires from acene and nanocorone derivatives
Authors: Cano Joan , Lloret Francesc , Julve Miguel
Published: September 2016

A theoretical design of molecular magnetic wires based on linear and cyclic oligoacene-bridged dicopper(ii) model complexes is highlighted in the present contribution.
Electrocatalytic reduction of carbon dioxide with Mn(terpyridine) carbonyl complexes
Authors: Machan Charles W. , Kubiak Clifford P.
Published: September 2016

The behavior of a series of Manganese (Mn) carbonyl compounds with 2,2′:6′,2′′-terpyridine (tpy) in κ2-N,N′ and κ3-N,N′,N′′ coordination modes under electrochemically reducing conditions is reported.
Dietary fibers influence the intestinal SCFAs and plasma metabolites profiling in growing pigs
Authors: Wu W. , Xie J. , Zhang H.
Published: September 2016

Dietary fibers (DFs), widely used as food additives to replace fat, can benefit metabolic disorders.
Differential regulation of NSC phenotype and genotype by chronically activated microglia within cocultures
Authors: Farrell Kurt , Borazjani Ali , Damaser Margot , Kothapalli Chandrasekhar R.
Published: September 2016

Under disease or injury conditions in the central nervous system (CNS), activated microglia release cytokines and chemokines to modulate the microenvironment and influence tissue remodeling.
Magnetic-adhesive based valves for microfluidic devices used in low-resource settings
Authors: Harper Jason C. , Andrews Jenna M. , Ben Candice , Hunt Andrew C. , Murton Jaclyn K. , Carson Bryan D. , Bachand George D. , Lovchik Julie A. , Arndt William D. , Finley Melissa R. , Edwards Thayne L.
Published: September 2016

A simple and low-cost valve for use in low-resource settings was fabricated that requires no power, external instrumentation, or technical training to operate.
Caulking polydimethylsiloxane molecular networks by thermal chemical vapor deposition of Parylene-C
Authors: Liu Yaoping , Zhang Lingqian , Mo Chi , Cao Yanping , Wu Wengang , Wang Wei
Published: September 2016

A t-CVD Parylene technique was advanced to caulk the molecular network of PDMS while retaining its original surface properties.
A “writing” strategy for shape transition with infinitely adjustable shaping sequences and in situ tunable 3D structures
Authors: Chen Tingting , Li Huan , Li Zuhong , Jin Qiao , Ji Jian
Published: September 2016

A NIR light “writing” strategy is described, in order to generate easy-to-implement, sequential and “personalized tailoring” 3D shape transition.
Selective chromo-fluorogenic detection of trivalent cations in aqueous environments using a dehydration reaction
Authors: Lo Presti Maria , El Sayed Sameh , Martínez-Máñez Ramón , Costero Ana M. , Gil Salvador , Parra Margarita , Sancenón Félix
Published: September 2016

Trivalent cations induced a dehydration reaction of a chemodosimeter in water that is coupled with colour and emission changes.
Facile one-pot tandem reductive amination of aldehydes from nitroarenes over a hierarchical ZSM-5 zeolite containing palladium nanoparticles
Authors: Kalbasi Roozbeh Javad , Mazaheri Omid
Published: September 2016

Palladium nanoparticles embedded in hierarchical zeolite act as an acid–metal bifunctional catalyst for efficient reductive amination of aldehyde from nitroarenes.
Nanoengineering neural stem cells on biomimetic substrates using magnetofection technology
Authors: Adams Christopher F. , Dickson Andrew W. , Kuiper Jan-Herman , Chari Divya M.
Published: September 2016

We demonstrate bioengineering of neural stem cells grown in physiologically relevant, neuromimetic hydrogels using magnetofection (translatable genetic engineering).
Dual-responsive nanoparticles based on oxidized pullulan and a disulfide-containing poly(β-amino) ester for efficient delivery of genes and chemotherapeutic agents targeting hepatoma
Authors: Wang Hemei , Wan Guoyun , Liu Yuanyuan , Chen Bowei , Chen Hongli , Zhang Sipei , Wang Dan , Xiong Qingqing , Zhang Ning , Wang Yinsong
Published: September 2016

A dual-responsive nanoparticle system was designed for the efficient delivery of genes and chemotherapeutic agents through polymer degradation responding orderly to the tumor intracellular pH and redox state.
Suzuki coupling for preparation of allenes – ligand effects and chirality transfer
Authors: Luo Hongwen , Yu Yihua , Ma Shengming
Published: September 2016

o-(Diphenylphosphino)benzaldehyde has been identified as the effective ligand for the coupling of propargylic carbonates and organoboronic acids under mild conditions.
Vertical assembly of few-layer graphene decorated with iron oxide nanoparticles on gold surfaces
Authors: Rodríguez-Serradet A. , Ciftci S. , Mikosch A. , Kuehne A. J. C. , de Melo C. P. , Cao-Milán R.
Published: September 2016

A wet method for producing vertically oriented graphene based electrodes is described.
An emulsion of pigmented nanoceria as a medicinal cosmetic
Authors: Raja I. Selestin , Duraipandi N. , Kiran Manikantan Syamala , Fathima Nishter Nishad
Published: September 2016

In this work, SnO2functionalized graphene oxide was shown to possess high adsorption capacities and fast adsorption rates for organic dyes over wide pH ranges. Additionally, the adsorbent could be easily regenerated by washing with ethanol.
Tuning the bandgap of graphene quantum dots by gold nanoparticle-assisted O2 plasma etching
Authors: Li Zibo , Li Zhengshun , Wu Yutong , Nan Jingjie , Wang Haiyu , Zhang Xun , Zhang Junhu , Yang Bai
Published: September 2016

GQDs were fabricated by O2 plasma treatment with self-assembled gold nanoparticle monolayers as etching masks and investigated through TA spectroscopy.
Threshold voltage control of a thin-film transistor using an Al–Zn–O channel prepared using atomic layer deposition by controlling the Al dopant positions
Authors: Kim Eom-Ji , Lee Won-Ho , Yoon Sung-Min
Published: September 2016

We proposed a methodology for controlling the threshold voltage by adjusting the position of the Al dopant layer within an Al-doped-ZnO active channel of a thin film transistor.
The recovery effects of Perinereis aibuhitensis Grube added to enteral immune-enhancing nutrition in severely burned mice
Authors: Li Wei , Chen Shanqiao , Wang Xu , Li Huiting , Wang Shujun , He Xiaofeng , Bao Bin , Wu Wenhui
Published: September 2016

The recovery effects ofPerinereis aibuhitensisGrube added to early enteral nutrition (EEN) were investigated.
Ab initio study of the excited-state proton transfer mechanisms for 3-hydroxy-2-(thiophen-2-yl)chromen-4-one
Authors: Ma Huipeng , Huang Jin-dou
Published: September 2016

The optical absorption properties and fluorescence properties of 3-hydroxy-2-(thiophen-2-yl)chromen-4-one (3-HTC) were simulated by the time-dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) method.
One-step approach for preparing ozone gas sensors based on hierarchical NiCo2O4 structures
Authors: Joshi Nirav , da Silva Luís F. , Jadhav Harsharaj , M'Peko Jean-Claude , Millan Torres Bruno Bassi , Aguir Khalifa , Mastelaro Valmor R. , Oliveira Osvaldo N.
Published: September 2016

Hexagonal platelets of NiCo2O4 in the inset image are used to detect ozone at sub-ppb level with high performance.
Ionic liquid-enhanced soft resistive switching devices
Authors: Rajan Krishna , Chiappone Annalisa , Perrone Denis , Bocchini Sergio , Roppolo Ignazio , Bejtka Katarzyna , Castellino Micaela , Pirri Candido Fabrizio , Ricciardi Carlo , Chiolerio Alessandro
Published: September 2016

Left: SEM showing dendrites bridging the electrodes. Right: Retention test showing a final on/off ratio of 700 after 10 000+ s. The addition of IL to switching matrix triggers non-volatile memory and 10-fold reduction of operating voltage.
Synthesis of Ag nanoparticles decorated MnO2/sulfonated graphene composites with 3D macroporous structure for high performance capacitors electrode materials
Authors: Liu Li , Zhao Jie , Li Wei-Hua , Zhang Xiao-Ying , Xu Hui-Zhong , Li Kai , Kai Yan , Sun Li-Shui , Li Chao-Qin , Liu Fa-Qian
Published: September 2016

3D porous Ag–MnO2/SG composites with high rate performance and low charge transfer resistance was synthesized.
Organogelation of cyanovinylcarbazole with terminal benzimidazole: AIE and response for gaseous acid
Authors: Wu Zhu , Sun Jingbo , Zhang Zhenqi , Gong Peng , Xue Pengcong , Lu Ran
Published: September 2016

The intense emission of carbazole-modified benzimidazole in xerogel-based film can be quenched rapidly by gaseous acid due to protonation.
Direct conversion of chitosan to 5-hydroxymethylfurfural in water using Brønsted–Lewis acidic ionic liquids as catalysts
Authors: Jiang Yi , Zang Hongjun , Han Sheng , Yan Bing , Yu Songbai , Cheng Bowen
Published: September 2016

The dehydration of chitosan to 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) via hydrothermal conversion was investigated in the presence of Brønsted–Lewis acidic ionic liquids.
Solvent dependent isomerization of photochromic dithienylethenes: synthesis, photochromism, and self-assembly
Authors: Sen Choong Ping , Valiyaveettil Suresh
Published: September 2016

The self-assembly of photochromic dithienylethene molecules into circular nanostructures is reported. The formation of nanostructures is dependent on factors such as photoisomerization, solvent, and hydrogen bonding.
MOF-templated controllable synthesis of α-Fe2O3 porous nanorods and their gas sensing properties
Authors: Gao Pingyi , Liu Rong , Huang Huihan , Jia Xiao , Pan Haibo
Published: September 2016

α-Fe2O3 porous nanorods (PNRs) with controlled morphologies were simply synthesized by thermolysis of Fe-based metal–organic framework (MIL-88A) at 500 °C.
Sulfoximinocarbonylation of aryl halides using heterogeneous Pd/C catalyst
Authors: Bala Balasubramanian Devi , Sharma Nidhi , Sekar Govindasamy
Published: September 2016

A heterogeneous Pd/C catalyzed three component protocol is developed for the sulfoximinocarbonylation of aryl halides.
Cu(0), O2 and mechanical forces: a saving combination for efficient production of Cu–NHC complexes
Authors: Beillard Audrey , Métro Thomas-Xavier , Bantreil Xavier , Martinez Jean , Lamaty Frédéric
Published: September 2016

Ball-milling of heterogeneous metallic copper, O2 and imidazolium salts enables the highly efficient production of Cu–NHC complexes.