bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supporting home hospice family caregivers: Insights from different perspectives
Authors: Ellington Lee , Cloyes Kristin G. , Xu Jiayun , Bellury Lanell , Berry Patricia H. , Reblin Maija , Clayton Margaret F.
Published: May 2017

Objective:

Our intention was to describe and compare the perspectives of national hospice thought leaders, hospice nurses, and former family caregivers on factors that promote or threaten family caregiver perceptions of support.

Method:

Nationally recognized hospice thought leaders (n = 11), hospice nurses (n = 13), and former family caregivers (n = 14) participated. Interviews and focus groups were audiotaped and transcribed. Data were coded inductively, and codes were hierarchically grouped by topic. Emergent categories were summarized descriptively and compared across groups.

Results:

Four categories linked responses from the three participant groups (95%, 366/384 codes): (1) essentials of skilled communication (30.6%), (2) importance of building authentic relationships (28%), (3) value of expert teaching (22.4%), and (4) critical role of teamwork (18.3%). The thought leaders emphasized communication (44.6%), caregivers stressed expert teaching (51%), and nurses highlighted teamwork (35.8%). Nurses discussed teamwork significantly more than caregivers (z = 2.2786), thought leaders discussed communication more than caregivers (z = 2.8551), and caregivers discussed expert teaching more than thought leaders (z = 2.1693) and nurses (z = 2.4718; all values of p < 0.05).

Significance of Results:

Our findings suggest differences in priorities for caregiver support across family caregivers, hospice nurses, and thought leaders. Hospice teams may benefit from further education and training to help cross the schism of family-centered hospice care as a clinical ideal to one where hospice team members can fully support and empower family caregivers as a hospice team member.
The influence of psychological factors on the burden of caregivers of patients with advanced cancer: Resiliency and caregiver burden
Authors: Palacio Carolina , Krikorian Alicia , Limonero Joaquín T.
Published: May 2017

Objective:

The aim of our study was to identify the influence of such psychological factors as emotional intelligence and perceived competence on caregiver burden in those who care for patients with advanced cancer.

Method:

A total of 50 informal caregivers completed self-report assessments of resilience, perceived competence, emotional regulation, positive aspects of care, emotional distress, and burden. We conducted a quantitative study with a cross-sectional design. Descriptive statistics were obtained. Associations between the different variables were assessed using nonparametric and multiple regression analyses.

Results:

Participants were mainly female (88%) and had an average of 20 months of caregiving. Their mean age was 47 years (range = 20–79). More than half of scored high on resilience, positive aspects of caring, and emotional distress, moderately on perceived competence, and low on burden. Most caregivers used cognitive restructuring and social support as coping strategies. Inverse negative correlations were observed among emotional distress, emotional state, and burden with perceived competence and positive aspects of caring (p < 0.05). Significant differences were obtained for emotional distress, cognitive restructuring, and resiliency. Multiple regression analyses demonstrated that perceived competence, resiliency, and positive aspects of caring were the main predictors of burden.

Significance of Results:

Resilience, perceived competence, emotional regulation, and positive aspects of care constitute protective factors against caregiver burden. Taken together, these aspects should be promoted by the healthcare staff in order to facilitate caregiver adaptation and well-being.
CD8 T cells contribute to lacrimal gland pathology in the nonobese diabetic mouse model of Sjögren syndrome
Authors: Barr Jennifer Y , Wang Xiaofang , Meyerholz David K , Lieberman Scott M
Published: May 2017

Sjögren syndrome is an autoimmune disease characterized by targeted destruction of the lacrimal and salivary glands resulting in symptoms of severe ocular and oral dryness. Despite its prevalence, the mechanisms driving autoimmune manifestations are unclear. In patients and in the nonobese diabetic (NOD) mouse model of Sjögren syndrome, lymphocytic infiltrates consist of CD4 and CD8 T cells, although the role of CD8 T cells in disease pathogenesis has been largely unexplored. Here, we evaluated the contribution of CD8 T cells to lacrimal and salivary gland autoimmunity. Within the lacrimal and salivary glands of NOD mice, CD8 T cells were proliferating, expressed an activated phenotype, and produced inflammatory cytokines. Transfer of purified CD8 T cells isolated from the cervical lymph nodes (LNs) of NOD mice into NOD‐severe combined immunodeficiency recipients resulted in inflammation of the lacrimal glands, but was not sufficient to cause inflammation of the salivary glands. Lacrimal gland‐infiltrating CD8 T cells displayed a cytotoxic phenotype, and epithelial cell damage in the lacrimal glands was observed in recipients of CD8 T cells regardless of the presence of CD4 T cells. Collectively, our results demonstrate that CD8 T cells have a pathogenic role in lacrimal gland autoimmunity. The gland‐specific pathogenicity of CD8 T cells makes them a valuable resource to further understand the mechanisms that discriminate lacrimal versus salivary gland autoimmunity and for the development of new therapeutics that target the early stages of disease.
Genetic variation and RNA structure regulate microRNA biogenesis
Authors: Fernandez Noemi , Cordiner Ross A. , Young Robert S. , Hug Nele , Macias Sara , Cáceres Javier F.
Published: May 2017

MiRNA biogenesis is highly regulated at the post-transcriptional level; however, the role of sequence and secondary RNA structure in this process has not been extensively studied. A single G to A substitution present in the terminal loop of pri-mir-30c-1 in breast and gastric cancer patients had been previously described to result in increased levels of mature miRNA. Here, we report that this genetic variant directly affects Drosha-mediated processing of pri-mir-30c-1 in vitro and in cultured cells. Structural analysis of this variant revealed an altered RNA structure that facilitates the interaction with SRSF3, an SR protein family member that promotes pri-miRNA processing. Our results are compatible with a model whereby a genetic variant in pri-mir-30c-1 leads to a secondary RNA structure rearrangement that facilitates binding of SRSF3 resulting in increased levels of miR-30c. These data highlight that primary sequence determinants and RNA structure are key regulators of miRNA biogenesis.
Atomic-level energy storage mechanism of cobalt hydroxide electrode for pseudocapacitors
Authors: Deng Ting , Zhang Wei , Arcelus Oier , Kim Jin-Gyu , Carrasco Javier , Yoo Seung Jo , Zheng Weitao , Wang Jiafu , Tian Hongwei , Zhang Hengbin , Cui Xiaoqiang , Rojo Teófilo
Published: May 2017

Cobalt hydroxide is a promising electrode material for supercapacitors due to the high capacitance and long cyclability. However, the energy storage/conversion mechanism of cobalt hydroxide is still vague at the atomic level. Here we shed light on how cobalt hydroxide functions as a supercapacitor electrode at operando conditions. We find that the high specific capacitance and long cycling life of cobalt hydroxide involve a complete modification of the electrode morphology, which is usually believed to be unfavourable but in fact has little influence on the performance. The conversion during the charge/discharge process is free of any massive structural evolution, but with some tiny shuffling or adjustments of atom/ion species. The results not only unravel that the potential of supercapacitors could heavily rely on the underlying structural similarities of switching phases but also pave the way for future material design for supercapacitors, batteries and hybrid devices.
Organocatalytic atroposelective synthesis of axially chiral styrenes
Authors: Zheng Sheng-Cai , Wu San , Zhou Qinghai , Chung Lung Wa , Ye Liu , Tan Bin
Published: May 2017

Axially chiral compounds are widespread in biologically active compounds and are useful chiral ligands or organocatalysts in asymmetric catalysis. It is well-known that styrenes are one of the most abundant and principal feedstocks and thus represent excellent prospective building blocks for chemical synthesis. Driven by the development of atroposelective synthesis of axially chiral styrene derivatives, we discovered herein the asymmetric organocatalytic approach via direct Michael addition reaction of substituted diones/ketone esters/malononitrile to alkynals. The axially chiral styrene compounds were produced with good chemical yields, enantioselectivities and almost complete E/Z-selectivities through a secondary amine-catalysed iminium activation strategy under mild conditions. Such structural motifs are important precursors for further transformations into biologically active compounds and synthetic useful intermediates and may have potential applications in asymmetric synthesis as olefin ligands or organocatalysts.
Live cell imaging of single genomic loci with quantum dot-labeled TALEs
Authors: Ma Yingxin , Wang Mingxiu , Li Wei , Zhang Zhiping , Zhang Xiaowei , Tan Tianwei , Zhang Xian-En , Cui Zongqiang
Published: May 2017

Single genomic loci are often related to specific cellular functions, genetic diseases, or pathogenic infections. Visualization of single genomic loci in live human cells is currently of great interest, yet it remains challenging. Here, we describe a strategy for live cell imaging of single genomic loci by combining transcription activator-like effectors (TALEs) with a quantum dot labelling technique. We design and select a pair of TALEs that specifically target HIV-1 proviral DNA sequences, and use bioorthogonal ligation reactions to label them with different colour quantum dots (QDs). These QD-labelled TALEs are able to enter the cell nucleus to provide fluorescent signals to identify single gene loci. Based on the co-localization of the pair of different coloured QD-labelled TALEs, we determine and map single-copy HIV-1 provirus loci in human chromosomes in live host cells.
Association between individual fat depots and cardio-metabolic traits in normal- and overweight children, adolescents and adults
Authors: Hübers M , Geisler C , Plachta-Danielzik S , Müller M J
Published: May 2017

Objectives:

To determine age-related associations between fat mass (FM), regional fat depots and cardiometabolic traits in normal- and overweight children, adolescents and adults.

Methods:

Detailed body composition (regional subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissue; SAT, VAT) by whole-body magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), FM and fat-free mass by air-displacement plethysmography, systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP, DBP), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), plasma glucose and plasma insulin were measured in 433 subjects (BMI: 23.6 (21.0–27.7); 151 children and adolescents, aged 6–18 years, 150 young adults, aged 18–30 years and 132 adults, aged 30–60 years). Data were derived from pooled data of the ‘Reference Center for Body Composition’ in Kiel, Germany. Insulin resistance was determined by the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). Partial correlations and multivariate linear regression analyses were used to evaluate the associations between body composition and cardiometabolic traits. A descriptive approach was used to demonstrate age-dependent differences in associations between body fat depots and insulin resistance, independent of BMI.

Results:

FM, SAT, and VAT increased from childhood to adulthood with low VAT in children and adolescents. When compared to children, TG was higher in adults. HDL and DBP did not differ between age groups. Insulin resistance was highest in male adolescents and female young adults. Associations between body fat depots and cardiometabolic traits were seen after puberty with no associations in pre- and intrapubertal children. When compared to FM, SAT and VAT had the strongest association with insulin resistance in adults. This association was independent of BMI.

Conclusions:

Associations between individual body fat depots and most cardiometabolic traits became evident after puberty only. The strongest associations were observed between insulin resistance and abdominal fat in adults. The impact of VAT was independent of BMI.
Inhibition of malic enzyme 1 disrupts cellular metabolism and leads to vulnerability in cancer cells in glucose-restricted conditions
Authors: Murai S , Ando A , Ebara S , Hirayama M , Satomi Y , Hara T
Published: May 2017

Malic enzyme 1 (ME1) regulates one of the main pathways that provide nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH), which is essential for cancer cell growth through maintenance of redox balance and biosynthesis processes in the cytoplasm. In this study, we found that ME1 inhibition disrupted metabolism in cancer cells and inhibited cancer cell growth by inducing senescence or apoptosis. In glucose-restricted culture conditions, cancer cells increased ME1 expression, and tracer experiments with labelled glutamine revealed that the flux of ME1-derived pyruvate to citrate was enhanced. In addition, cancer cells showed higher sensitivity to ME1 depletion in glucose-restricted conditions compared to normal culture conditions. These results suggest that in a low-glucose environment, where glycolysis and the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) is attenuated, cancer cells become dependent on ME1 for the supply of NADPH and pyruvate. Our data demonstrate that ME1 is a promising target for cancer treatment, and a strategy using ME1 inhibitors combined with inhibition of glycolysis, PPP or redox balance regulators may provide an effective therapeutic option.
Peak flow meter with a questionnaire and mini-spirometer to help detect asthma and COPD in real-life clinical practice: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Thorat Yogesh T. , Salvi Sundeep S. , Kodgule Rahul R.
Published: May 2017

Peak flow meter with questionnaire and mini-spirometer are considered as alternative tools to spirometry for screening of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. However, the accuracy of these tools together, in clinical settings for disease diagnosis, has not been studied. Two hundred consecutive patients with respiratory complaints answered a short symptom questionnaire and performed peak expiratory flow measurements, standard spirometry with Koko spirometer and mini-spirometry (COPD-6). Spirometry was repeated after bronchodilation. Physician made a final diagnosis of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and others. One eighty nine patients (78 females) with age 51 ± 17 years with asthma (115), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (33) and others (41) completed the study. “Breathlessness > 6months” and “cough > 6months” were important symptoms to detect obstructive airways disease. “Asymptomatic period > 2 weeks” had the best sensitivity (Sn) and specificity (Sp) to differentiate asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. A peak expiratory flow of < 80% predicted was the best cut-off to detect airflow limitation (Sn 90%, Sp 50%). Respiratory symptoms with PEF < 80% predicted, had Sn 84 and Sp 93% to detect OAD. COPD-6 device under-estimated FEV1 by 13 mL (95% CI: −212, 185). At a cut-off of 0.75, the FEV1/FEV6 had the best accuracy (Sn 80%, Sp 86%) to detect airflow limitation. Peak flow meter with few symptom questions can be effectively used in clinical practice for objective detection of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, in the absence of good quality spirometry. Mini-spirometers are useful in detection of obstructive airways diseases but FEV1 measured is inaccurate.
Common sequence variants affect molecular function more than rare variants?
Authors: Mahlich Yannick , Reeb Jonas , Hecht Maximilian , Schelling Maria , De Beer Tjaart Andries Petrus , Bromberg Yana , Rost Burkhard
Published: May 2017

Any two unrelated individuals differ by about 10,000 single amino acid variants (SAVs). Do these impact molecular function? Experimental answers cannot answer comprehensively, while state-of-the-art prediction methods can. We predicted the functional impacts of SAVs within human and for variants between human and other species. Several surprising results stood out. Firstly, four methods (CADD, PolyPhen-2, SIFT, and SNAP2) agreed within 10 percentage points on the percentage of rare SAVs predicted with effect. However, they differed substantially for the common SAVs: SNAP2 predicted, on average, more effect for common than for rare SAVs. Given the large ExAC data sets sampling 60,706 individuals, the differences were extremely significant (p-value < 2.2e-16). We provided evidence that SNAP2 might be closer to reality for common SAVs than the other methods, due to its different focus in development. Secondly, we predicted significantly higher fractions of SAVs with effect between healthy individuals than between species; the difference increased for more distantly related species. The same trends were maintained for subsets of only housekeeping proteins and when moving from exomes of 1,000 to 60,000 individuals. SAVs frozen at speciation might maintain protein function, while many variants within a species might bring about crucial changes, for better or worse.
Evidence of cross-cutting and redox reaction in Khatyrka meteorite reveals metallic-Al minerals formed in outer space
Authors: Lin Chaney , Hollister Lincoln S. , MacPherson Glenn J. , Bindi Luca , Ma Chi , Andronicos Christopher L. , Steinhardt Paul J.
Published: May 2017

We report on a fragment of the quasicrystal-bearing CV3 carbonaceous chondrite Khatyrka recovered from fine-grained, clay-rich sediments in the Koryak Mountains, Chukotka (Russia). We show higher melting-point silicate glass cross-cutting lower melting-point Al-Cu-Fe alloys, as well as unambiguous evidence of a reduction-oxidation reaction history between Al-Cu-Fe alloys and silicate melt. The redox reactions involve reduction of FeO and SiO2 to Fe and Fe-Si metal, and oxidation of metallic Al to Al2O3, occurring where silicate melt was in contact with Al-Cu-Fe alloys. In the reaction zone, there are metallic Fe and Fe-Si beads, aluminous spinel rinds on the Al-Cu-Fe alloys, and Al2O3 enrichment in the silicate melt surrounding the alloys. From this and other evidence, we demonstrate that Khatyrka must have experienced at least two distinct events: first, an event as early as 4.564 Ga in which the first Al-Cu-Fe alloys formed; and, second, a more recent impact-induced shock in space that led to transformations of and reactions between the alloys and the meteorite matrix. The new evidence firmly establishes that the Al-Cu-Fe alloys (including quasicrystals) formed in outer space in a complex, multi-stage process.
Chiral nematic liquid crystal microlenses
Authors: Popov Piotr , Honaker Lawrence W. , Mirheydari Mona , Mann Elizabeth K. , Jákli Antal
Published: May 2017

Nematic liquid crystals (NLCs) of achiral molecules and racemic mixtures of chiral ones form flat films and show uniform textures between circular polarizers when suspended in sub-millimeter size grids and immersed in water. On addition of chiral dopants to the liquid crystal, the films exhibit optical textures with concentric ring patterns and radial variation of the birefringence color. Both are related to a biconvex shape of the chiral liquid crystal film; the rings are due to interference. The curvature radii of the biconvex lens array are in the range of a few millimeters. This curvature leads to a radial variation of the optical axis along the plane of the film. Such a Pancharatnam-type phase lens dominates the imaging and explains the measured focal length of about one millimeter. To our knowledge, these are the first spontaneously formed Pancharatnam devices. The unwinding of the helical structure at the grid walls drives the lens shape. The relation between the lens curvature and material properties such as helical pitch, the twist elastic constant, and the interfacial tensions, is derived. This simple, novel method for spontaneously forming microlens arrays can also be used for various sensors.
Multiferroic coreshell magnetoelectric nanoparticles as NMR sensitive nanoprobes for cancer cell detection
Authors: Nagesetti Abhignyan , Rodzinski Alexandra , Stimphil Emmanuel , Stewart Tiffanie , Khanal Chooda , Wang Ping , Guduru Rakesh , Liang Ping , Agoulnik Irina , Horstmyer Jeffrey , Khizroev Sakhrat
Published: May 2017

Magnetoelectric (ME) nanoparticles (MENs) intrinsically couple magnetic and electric fields. Using them as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) sensitive nanoprobes adds another dimension for NMR detection of biological cells based on the cell type and corresponding particle association with the cell. Based on ME property, for the first time we show that MENs can distinguish different cancer cells among themselves as well as from their normal counterparts. The core-shell nanoparticles are 30 nm in size and were not superparamagnetic. Due to presence of the ME effect, these nanoparticles can significantly enhance the electric field configuration on the cell membrane which serves as a signature characteristic depending on the cancer cell type and progression stage. This was clearly observed by a significant change in the NMR absorption spectra of cells incubated with MENs. In contrast, conventional cobalt ferrite magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) did not show any change in the NMR absorption spectra. We conclude that different membrane properties of cells which result in distinct MEN organization and the minimization of electrical energy due to particle binding to the cells contribute to the NMR signal. The nanoprobe based NMR spectroscopy has the potential to enable rapid screening of cancers and impact next-generation cancer diagnostic exams.
Adipocyte Fatty-Acid Binding Protein is Overexpressed in Cirrhosis and Correlates with Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Graupera Isabel , Coll Mar , Pose Elisa , Elia Chiara , Piano Salvatore , Solà Elsa , Blaya Delia , Huelin Patricia , Solé Cristina , Moreira Rebeca , de Prada Gloria , Fabrellas Núria , Juanola Adrià , Morales-Ruiz Manuel , Sancho-Bru Pau , Villanueva Càndid , Ginès Pere
Published: May 2017

Fatty-acid-binding proteins (FABPs) are small intracellular proteins that coordinate lipid-mediated processes by targeting metabolic and immune response pathways. The aim of the study was to investigate plasma FABPs levels and their relationship with clinical outcomes in cirrhosis. Plasma levels of L-FABP1(liver and kidney), I-FABP2(intestine), and A-FABP4(adipocyte and macrophages) were measured in 274 patients with decompensated cirrhosis. Hepatic gene expression of FABPs was assessed in liver biopsies from patients with decompensated cirrhosis and in liver cell types from mice with cirrhosis. Immunohistochemistry of A-FABP4 in human liver biopsy was also performed. Plasma levels of FABPs were increased in patients with decompensated cirrhosis compared to those of healthy subjects (L-FABP1: 25 (17–39) vs 10 (9–17) ng/mL p = 0.001, I-FABP2: 1.1 (0.5–2.1) vs 0.6 (0.4–1) ng/mL p = 0.04 and A-FABP4: 37 (20–68) vs 16 (11–33) ng/mL p = 0.002), respectively. Increased A-FABP4 levels were associated with complications of cirrhosis, acute-on-chronic liver failure and poor survival. Hepatic A-FABP4 gene expression was upregulated in decompensated cirrhosis. Macrophages were the main liver cell that over-expressed A-FABP4 in experimental cirrhosis and increased A-FABP4 was found in macrophages of human biopsies by immunohistochemistry. A-FABP4 levels are increased in decompensated cirrhosis and correlate with poor outcomes. Liver macrophages appear to be the main source of A-FABP4 in decompensated cirrhosis.
Topological Quantum Phase Transition and Local Topological Order in a Strongly Interacting Light-Matter System
Authors: Sarkar Sujit
Published: May 2017

An attempt is made to understand the topological quantum phase transition, emergence of relativistic modes and local topological order of light in a strongly interacting light-matter system. We study this system, in a one dimensional array of nonlinear cavities. Topological quantum phase transition occurs with massless excitation only for the finite detuning process. We present a few results based on the exact analytical calculations along with the physical explanations. We observe the emergence of massive Majorana fermion mode at the topological state, massless Majorana-Weyl fermion mode during the topological quantum phase transition and Dirac fermion mode for the non-topological state. Finally, we study the quantized Berry phase (topological order) and its connection to the topological number (winding number).
GIRK2 splice variants and neuronal G protein-gated K+ channels: implications for channel function and behavior
Authors: Marron Fernandez de Velasco Ezequiel , Zhang Lei , N. Vo Baovi , Tipps Megan , Farris Shannon , Xia Zhilian , Anderson Allison , Carlblom Nicholas , Weaver C. David , Dudek Serena M. , Wickman Kevin
Published: May 2017

Many neurotransmitters directly inhibit neurons by activating G protein-gated inwardly rectifying K+(GIRK) channels, thereby moderating the influence of excitatory input on neuronal excitability. While most neuronal GIRK channels are formed by GIRK1 and GIRK2 subunits, distinct GIRK2 isoforms generated by alternative splicing have been identified. Here, we compared the trafficking and function of two isoforms (GIRK2a and GIRK2c) expressed individually in hippocampal pyramidal neurons lacking GIRK2. GIRK2a and GIRK2c supported comparable somato-dendritic GIRK currents inGirk2−/−pyramidal neurons, although GIRK2c achieved a more uniform subcellular distribution in pyramidal neurons and supported inhibitory postsynaptic currents in distal dendrites better than GIRK2a. While over-expression of either isoform in dorsal CA1 pyramidal neurons restored contextual fear learning in a conditionalGirk2−/−mouse line, GIRK2a also enhanced cue fear learning. Collectively, these data indicate that GIRK2 isoform balance within a neuron can impact the processing of afferent inhibitory input and associated behavior.
Visual processing mode switching regulated by VIP cells
Authors: Lee Jung Hoon , Mihalas Stefan
Published: May 2017

The responses of neurons in mouse primary visual cortex (V1) to visual stimuli depend on behavioral states. Specifically, surround suppression is reduced during locomotion. Although locomotion-induced vasoactive intestinal polypeptide positive (VIP) interneuron depolarization can account for the reduction of surround suppression, the functions of VIP cell depolarization are not fully understood. Here we utilize a firing rate model and a computational model to elucidate the potential functions of VIP cell depolarization during locomotion. Our analyses suggest 1) that surround suppression sharpens the visual responses in V1 to a stationary scene, 2) that depolarized VIP cells enhance V1 responses to moving objects by reducing self-induced surround suppression and 3) that during locomotion V1 neuron responses to some features of the moving objects can be selectively enhanced. Thus, VIP cells regulate surround suppression to allow pyramidal neurons to optimally encode visual information independent of behavioral state.
Hematopoietic Deficiency of miR-223 Attenuates Thrombosis in Response to Photochemical Injury in Mice
Authors: Wang Hui , Wang Qian , Kleiman Kyle , Guo Chiao , Eitzman Daniel T.
Published: May 2017

Some studies have shown that levels of MicroRNA (miR)-223 derived from platelets in the plasma are reduced following inhibition of platelet function, while others have shown a correlation between low plasma miR-223 and high on-treatment platelet reactivity. The present study seeks to investigate the role of miR-223 in arterial thrombosis. A model of photochemical-induced carotid thrombosis was applied to miR-223 deficient mice and littermate (WT) controls. Mice deficient in miR-223 exhibited significantly prolonged times to occlusive thrombosis compared to WT mice indicating a protective effect of miR-223 deficiency. Bone marrow transplantation experiments confirmed that the hematopoietic pool of miR-223 was responsible for differences in thrombosis times. Transfusion of either WT platelets or extracellular vesicles derived from WT platelets were both sufficient to shorten thrombosis times in miR-223 deficient recipients. The effect of platelet transfusions on IGF-1R was explored. These experiments revealed that vascular IGF-1R was down-regulated by platelet miR-223. Furthermore, inhibition of IGF-1R abolished the protection conferred by miR-223 deficiency on thrombosis. In conclusion, platelet miR-223 is a regulator of arterial thrombosis following endothelial injury through effects on vascular wall IGF-1R. This study indicates that platelet miR-223 is a potential therapeutic target for prevention of arterial thrombosis.
Spatial and Temporal Patterns of Commercial Citrus Trees Affected by Phyllosticta citricarpa in Florida
Authors: Hendricks Katherine E. , Christman Mary , Roberts Pamela D.
Published: May 2017

Citrus black spot (CBS) caused by Phyllosticta citricarpa, is the most recent introduction of an exotic citrus pathogen into Florida and has been a challenge to control to date. Understanding the dispersal pattern of the disease within affected groves is vital in developing effective control strategies to limit the spread of the disease. The spatial pattern of CBS-affected trees was studied in two commercial ‘Valencia’ orange groves over three consecutive citrus seasons. Cluster analyses based on nearest-neighbor distance (F, G and J-functions) and pairwise distances between points (Ripley’s K function, Besag’s L function and the pair correlation function, g) were used to test the hypothesis of complete spatial randomness (CSR) of CBS infected trees within the groves. In both groves, the hypothesis of CSR was rejected for all tests performed including quadrats testing (2 × 2 trees up to 10 × 10 trees). The relationship between tree age and disease was assessed at one experimental site. Citrus trees bearing fruit for the first time accounted for approximately 13% of trees positive for disease and were located within areas of heavy disease pressure. These findings support short distance movement of inoculum as the main spread of disease in the groves studied.
Both haemagglutinin-specific antibody and T cell responses induced by a chimpanzee adenoviral vaccine confer protection against influenza H7N9 viral challenge
Authors: Wang Xiang , Fu Weihui , Yuan Songhua , Yang Xi , Song Yufeng , Liu Lulu , Chi Yudan , Cheng Tao , Xing Man , Zhang Yan , Zhang Chao , Yang Yong , Zhu Caihong , Zhang Xiaoyan , Xiong Sidong , Xu Jianqing , Zhou Dongming
Published: May 2017

Since 2013, the outbreak or sporadic infection of a new reassortant H7N9 influenza virus in China has resulted in hundreds of deaths and thousands of illnesses. An H7N9 vaccine is urgently needed, as a licensed human vaccine against H7N9 influenza is currently not available. Here, we developed a recombinant adenovirus-based vaccine, AdC68-H7HA, by cloning the H7N9 haemagglutinin (HA) gene into the chimpanzee adenoviral vector AdC68. The efficacy of AdC68-H7HA was evaluated in mice as well as guinea pigs. For comparison, an H7N9 DNA vaccine based on HA was also generated and tested in mice and guinea pigs. The results demonstrated that both AdC68-H7HA and the DNA vaccine prime-adenovirus boost regimen induced potent immune responses in animals and completely protected mice from lethal H7N9 influenza viral challenge. A post-immunization serum transfer experiment showed that antibody responses could completely protect against lethal challenge, while a T cell depletion experiment indicated that HA-specific CD8+T cells responses also contributed to protection. Therefore, both HA-specific humoral immunity and cellular immunity play important roles in the protection. These data suggest that the chimpanzee adenovirus expressing HA is a promising vaccine candidate for H7N9 virus or other influenza viral subtypes.
Estimation of postmortem interval by vitreous potassium evaluation with a novel fluorescence aptasensor
Authors: Ding Yanjun , Li Xingmei , Guo Yadong , Duan Weicheng , Ling Jiang , Zha Lagabaiyla , Yan Jie , Zou Ying , Cai Jifeng
Published: May 2017

Estimation of postmortem interval (PMI) is a central role in medico-legal identification. Analysis of vitreous potassium ions (K+) concentration is frequently used by forensic workers to estimate PMI. This paper describes interdisciplinary research to introduce fluorescence sensing techniques into forensic medicine. On the basis of silver nanoclusters (AgNCs) probe stabilized by DNA, a simple and highly sensitive fluorescence aptasensor has been proposed to selectively detect K+ions. The linear range for K+ions was found to be 0.1 nM-1 mM, with limit of detection of 0.06 nM. Moreover, 63 vitreous humour cases within 36 h after death were further studied to verify the utility of K+ions in estimating the PMI. By the fluorescence aptasensor method, a new formula was built to determine the postmortem interval based on K+ions concentration: PMI(h) = −0.55 + 1.66 × CK+(r = 0.791). And the real significance of this research was demonstrated by additional 6 cases with known PMIs. In comparison with the conventional method, the presented aptasensor strategy is cost-effective and easy in measuring vitreous K+, which may be potentially a better way for estimation of PMI in medico-legal practice.
Hotspot analyses indicate significant conservation gaps for evergreen broadleaved woody plants in China
Authors: Xu Yue , Shen Zehao , Ying Lingxiao , Wang Zhiheng , Huang Jihong , Zang Runguo , Jiang Youxu
Published: May 2017

Evergreen broadleaved woody plants (EBWPs) are dominant components in forests and savanna of the global tropic and subtropic regions. Southern China possesses the largest continuous area of subtropical EBWPs distribution, harboring a high proportion of endemic species. Hotspot and gap analyses are effective methods for analyzing the spatial pattern of biodiversity and conservation and were used here for EBWPs in China. Based on a distribution data set of 6,265 EBWPs with a spatial resolution of 50 × 50 km, we measured diversity of EBWPs in China using four indices: species richness, corrected weighted endemism, relative phylogenetic diversity, and phylogenetic endemism. According to the results based on 10% threshold, 15.73% of China’s land area was identified as hotspots using at least one diversity index. Only 2.14% of China’s land area was identified as hotspots for EBWPs by all four metrics simultaneously. Most of the hotspots locate in southern mountains. Moreover, we found substantial conservation gaps for Chinese EBWPs. Only 25.43% of the hotspots are covered by existing nature reserves by more than 10% of their area. We suggest to promote the establishment and management of nature reserve system within the hotspot gaps.
Correction: Corrigendum: Early evidence of stone tool use in bone working activities at Qesem Cave, Israel
Authors: Zupancich Andrea , Nunziante-Cesaro Stella , Blasco Ruth , Rosell Jordi , Cristiani Emanuela , Venditti Flavia , Lemorini Cristina , Barkai Ran , Gopher Avi
Published: May 2017

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 37686; published online: 25 November 2016; updated: 03 May 2017. In the Supplementary Information file originally published with this Article, Figure S3 was elongated and of poor quality. This error has been corrected in the Supplementary Information that now accompanies the Article.
Correction: Corrigendum: Constitutive cyclic GMP accumulation in Arabidopsis thaliana compromises systemic acquired resistance induced by an avirulent pathogen by modulating local signals
Authors: Hussain Jamshaid , Chen Jian , Locato Vittoria , Sabetta Wilma , Behera Smrutisanjita , Cimini Sara , Griggio Francesca , Martínez-Jaime Silvia , Graf Alexander , Bouneb Mabrouk , Pachaiappan Raman , Fincato Paola , Blanco Emanuela , Costa Alex , De Gara Laura , Bellin Diana , de Pinto Maria Concetta , Vandelle Elodie
Published: May 2017

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 36423; published online: 04 November 2016; updated: 03 May 2017. This Article contains an error in Figure 3c, where the y-axis ‘ASC + DHA (μmol/mg prot)’ is incorrectly given as ‘ASC + DHA (nmol/mg prot)’. The correct Figure 3 appears below as Figure 1.
Correction: Corrigendum: Understanding cancer complexome using networks, spectral graph theory and multilayer framework
Authors: Rai Aparna , Pradhan Priodyuti , Nagraj Jyothi , Lohitesh K. , Chowdhury Rajdeep , Jalan Sarika
Published: May 2017

Scientific Reports 7: Article number: 41676; published online: 03 February 2017; updated: 03 May 2017. This Article contains an error in Figure 1, where the graph for Figure 1d is a duplicate of Figure 1b. The correct Figure 1 appears below.
Zeolite cage-lock strategy for in situ synthesis of highly nitrogen-doped porous carbon for selective adsorption of carbon dioxide gas
Authors: Xue Chunfeng , Zhu Hongye , Xu Tingting , Wang Enyang , Xiao Bo , Liu Xuguang , Hao Xiaogang , Guan Guoqing
Published: May 2017

Porous carbon structures doped with 18.14% nitrogen and prepared by a carbonizing organic template in ZSM-39 zeolitic cages show high CO2 adsorption capacity.
Spectroscopy study of the interaction between endocrine disruptor 4-OH-2,2′,3,4′-BDE and human serum albumin
Authors: Chen Zhitao , Hu Shuisheng , He Xiaoyan , Guo Longhua , Qiu Bin , Lin Zhenyu , Chen Guonan , Cai Zongwei
Published: May 2017

Hydroxylated polybrominated diphenyl ethers (OH-PBDEs), as one of the derivatives of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), have received extensive concern recently.
Determination of hydrogen peroxide using novel test strips based on plastic microcapillary film
Authors: Xu Zheyun , Jiang Feng , Zhou Fanghao , Xu Zhongbin , Xu Haoyan , Ruan Xiaodong
Published: May 2017

This work proposes a novel method for the semi-quantitative determination of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in routine and on-site applications.
Comparison of six derivatizing agents for the determination of nine synthetic cathinones using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry
Authors: Alsenedi Khalid A. , Morrison Calum
Published: May 2017

Insight into mass spectrometry ions and derivatization conditions for synthetic cathinone type new psychoactive substances.
AuPd bimetallic nanoparticle-supported carbon nanotubes for selective detection of dopamine in the presence of ascorbic acid
Authors: Yang Haitang , Liu Dandan , Zhao Xiaoyu , Yang Jing-He , Chang Haibo , Xing Ruimin , Liu Shanhu
Published: May 2017

The AuPd/CNTs–Nafion/GCE sensor shows markedly improved and selective electrocatalytic activity towards dopamine oxidation with a linear range from 0.2 to 50 μM in the presence of high concentrations of ascorbic acid in PBS solution at pH 7.0.
Catalytic dehydrogenative dual functionalization of ethers: dealkylation–oxidation–bromination accompanied by C–O bond cleavage via aerobic oxidation of bromide
Authors: Moriyama Katsuhiko , Hamada Tsukasa , Nakamura Yu , Togo Hideo
Published: May 2017

Catalytic dehydrogenative dual functionalization (DDF) of ethers via oxidation, dealkylation, and α-bromination by the aerobic oxidation of bromide was developed to obtain the corresponding α-bromo ketones in high yields.
A convenient and clean synthetic method for borasiloxanes by Pd-catalysed reaction of silanols with diborons
Authors: Yoshimura Aya , Yoshinaga Michiyo , Yamashita Hiroshi , Igarashi Masayasu , Shimada Shigeru , Sato Kazuhiko
Published: May 2017

Pd-Catalysed O-borylation of silanols with diborons selectively proceeded to give the corresponding boryl silyl ethers in high yields.
Theoretical investigations into the charge transfer properties of thiophene α-substituted naphthodithiophene diimides: excellent n-channel and ambipolar organic semiconductors
Authors: Ji Li-Fei , Fan Jian-Xun , Zhang Shou-Feng , Ren Ai-Min
Published: May 2017

The effects of substituents at the thiophene α-position ofNDTIon the electronic structures, stability, molecular packing and the charge transport properties were investigated using quantum chemical methods.
Multichromophoric hybrid species made of perylene bisimide derivatives and Ru(ii) and Os(ii) polypyridine subunits
Authors: Nastasi Francesco , La Ganga Giuseppina , Campagna Sebastiano , Syrgiannis Zois , Rigodanza Francesco , Vitale Stefania , Licciardello Antonino , Prato Maurizio
Published: May 2017

The photoinduced intercomponent electron transfer in multi-chromophoric species comprising perylene bisimide (PBI) and Ru(ii)/Os(ii) polypyridine units were studied.
Enhanced oxygen-release/storage properties of Pd-loaded Sr3Fe2O7−δ
Authors: Beppu Kosuke , Hosokawa Saburo , Shibano Takuya , Demizu Akito , Kato Kazuo , Wada Kenji , Asakura Hiroyuki , Teramura Kentaro , Tanaka Tsunehiro
Published: May 2017

Pd metal nanoparticles highly dispersed on Sr3Fe2O7−δ dramatically enhance the release process of lattice oxygen under H2 atmosphere.
A journey from calix[4]arene to calix[6] and calix[8]arene reveals more than a matter of size. Receptor concentration affects the stability and stoichiometric nature of the complexes
Authors: Lavande Nitin , Acuña Angel , Basílio Nuno , Francisco Vitor , Malkhede Dipalee D. , Garcia-Rio Luis
Published: May 2017

An in-depth study provides the basis for an accurate characterization of supramolecular systems based on p-sulfonatocalix[6,8]arenes.
Dissection of H-bonding interactions in a glycolic acid–water dimer
Authors: Gu Quanli , Shen Dan , Tang Zhen , Wu Wei , Su Peifeng , Xia Yong , Yang Zhijun , Trindle Carl O.
Published: May 2017

The binding strength and collective effects of multiple H-bonds in the glycolic acid–water dimer were studied in comparison to the aromatic analog, 9-hydroxy-9-fluorene carboxylic acid (9HFCA).
Synthesis of mesoporous silica-supported Ag nanorod-based bimetallic catalysts and investigation of their plasmonic activity under visible light irradiation
Authors: Verma Priyanka , Kuwahara Yasutaka , Mori Kohsuke , Yamashita Hiromi
Published: May 2017

Bimetallic Ag nanorod-based heterogeneous plasmonic nanocatalysts were synthesized for obtaining excellent catalytic performances under visible light irradiation.
A tri-functional vanadium(iv) complex to detect cysteine oxidation
Authors: Cilibrizzi Agostino , Fedorova Marina , Collins Juliet , Leatherbarrow Robin , Woscholski Rudiger , Vilar Ramon
Published: May 2017

A multifunctional vanadium complex with a dimedone derivative and a coumarine-based fluorophore as optical probe to assess intracellular oxidative damage.
Nickel–cobalt-layered double hydroxide nanosheet arrays on Ni foam as a bifunctional electrocatalyst for overall water splitting
Authors: Liu Wenjun , Bao Jian , Guan Meili , Zhao Yan , Lian Jiabiao , Qiu Jingxia , Xu Li , Huang Yunpeng , Qian Jing , Li Huaming
Published: May 2017

A bifunctional electrocatalyst based on NiCo-LDH ultrathin nanosheets grown on a nickel foam shows a superior overall water-splitting performance.
Organoindium-modified monodisperse ellipsoid-/platelet-like periodic mesoporous silicas
Authors: Liang Yucang , Meixner Martin
Published: May 2017

Indium-modified mondisperse ellipsoid-/platelet-like large-pore periodic mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MMSNs) SBA-15 have been prepared via molecular grafting of In[N(SiMe3)2]3. Surface ligand exchange led to the formation of heteroleptic In species, and the resulting surface In species were converted into crystalline In2O3 nanoparticles by calcination.
Hollow fiber supported TiO2 monolithic microextraction combined with capillary HPLC-ICP-MS for sensitive absolute quantification of phosphopeptides
Authors: Li Shan , Chen Beibei , He Man , Hu Bin
Published: May 2017

Hollow fiber supported TiO2 monolithic microextraction combined with capHPLC-ICP-MS was proposed for absolute quantification analysis of phosphopeptides.
Potentiating role of copper on spatial memory deficit induced by beta amyloid and evaluation of mitochondrial function markers in the hippocampus of rats
Authors: Behzadfar Ladan , Abdollahi Mohammad , Sabzevari Omid , Hosseini Rohollah , Salimi Ahmad , Naserzadeh Parvaneh , Sharifzadeh Mohammad , Pourahmad Jalal
Published: May 2017

The mechanistic relation between mitochondrial dysfunction and memory deficit caused by chronic administration of copper alone and in combination with Aβ.
Aggregation-induced emission (AIE) characteristic of water-soluble tetraphenylethene (TPE) bearing four sulfonate salts
Authors: Ooyama Yousuke , Sugino Michitaka , EnoKi Toshiaki , Yamamoto Kazuki , Tsunoji Nao , Ohshita Joji
Published: May 2017

Aggregation-induced emission (AIE) characteristic of water-soluble tetraphenylethene (WS-TPE), was investigated by the addition of organic solvent into WS-TPE aqueous solution.
Effect of the synthesis method on the performance of Fe3O4–inositol hexaphosphate as a drug delivery vehicle for combination therapeutics with doxorubicin
Authors: Xu Dandan , Xu Tongying , Guo Xuejie , Liu Qi , Liu Jingyuan , Lv Weizhong , Jing Xiaoyan , Zhang Hongsen , Wang Jun
Published: May 2017

Fe3O4–IP6 was fabricated via layer-by-layer electrostatic self-assembly following a solvothermal synthesis method and via a one-step co-precipitation method.
Contrasting effects of heterocycle substitution and branched tails in the arms of star-shaped molecules
Authors: Pathak Suraj Kumar , Nath Subrata , De Joydip , Pal Santanu Kumar , Achalkumar Ammathnadu S.
Published: May 2017

Herein, heterocycle based star-shaped liquid crystalline tris(N-salicylideneaniline)s (TSANs) are reported.
Enhanced photocatalytic water splitting by gold carbon dot core shell nanocatalyst under visible/sunlight
Authors: Mehta Akansha , D. Pooja , Thakur Anupma , Basu Soumen
Published: May 2017

Hydrogen production from water using photocatalysts under sunlight still remains a huge challenge.
Enantioselective magnesium-catalyzed transformations
Authors: Pellissier Hélène
Published: May 2017

This review updates the major progress in the field of enantioselective transformations promoted by chiral magnesium catalysts, covering the literature since 2007, illustrating the power of these green catalysts to promote many types of reactions.
Solvated-electron initiated rapid polymerization at ambient-temperature: a case of monomer solubility
Authors: Chang Boyce S. , Oyola-Reynoso Stephanie , Chen Jiahao , Lu Mingchang , Thuo Martin M.
Published: May 2017

Solvated electrons are highly reactive species that offer a chance to develop odd-numbered electron chemistry in the form of a radical (1 electron) or a radical-anion (3 electrons).
Synthesis and functionalization of polymer networks via germane–ene chemistry
Authors: Guterman Ryan , Harrison Tristan D. , Gillies Elizabeth R. , Ragogna Paul J.
Published: May 2017

Germane–ene polymer networks are prepared by utilizing Ge–H bonds with suitable crosslinkers; the materials are ideally suited for post polymer functionalization.
High performance multi-functional trilayer membranes as permselective separators for lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Raja M. , Suriyakumar Shruti , Angulakshmi N. , Manuel Stephan A.
Published: May 2017

A trilayer membrane comprising MWCNTs and MgAl2O4 coated on either side of a Celgard separator as a permselective membrane for Li–S batteries.
An expedient E-stereoselective synthesis of multi-substituted functionalized allylic boronates from Morita–Baylis–Hillman alcohols
Authors: Xuan Qingqing , Wei Yahui , Chen Jinglong , Song Qiuling
Published: May 2017

Various functionalized tri-substituted allylic boronates were synthesized through borylation of Morita–Baylis–Hillman alcohols under the catalysis of Cu(OTf)2 at ambient temperature.
Corrosion inhibition of C-steel in acidic media from fruiting bodies of Melia azedarach L extract and a synergistic Ni2+additive
Authors: Ali A. I. , Mahrous Y. Sh.
Published: May 2017

The inhibiting ability of fruit bodies ofMelia azedarach Linnextract (FB-MALE) and its synergistic effect with Ni2+on the corrosion of C-steel in hydrochloric acid were investigated.