bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surface modification of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membrane via radiation grafting: novel mechanisms underlying the interesting enhanced membrane performance
Authors: Shen Liguo , Feng Shushu , Li Jianxi , Chen Jianrong , Li Fengquan , Lin Hongjun , Yu Genying
Published: May 2017

This study provided the first attempt of grafting hydrophobic polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membrane with hydrophilic hydroxyethyl acrylate (HEA) monomer via a radiation grafting method. This grafted membrane showed an enhanced hydrophilicity (10° decrease of water contact angle), water content ratio, settling ability and wettability compared to the control membrane. Interestingly, filtration tests showed an improved dependence of water flux of the grafted membrane on the solution pH in the acidic stage. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) analysis provided in-situ evidence that the reduced surface pore size of the grafted membrane with the solution pH governed such a dependence. It was proposed that, the reduced surface pore size was caused by the swelling of the grafted chain matrix, with the pH increase due to the chemical potential change. It was found that the grafted membrane showed a lower relative flux decreasing rate than the control membrane. Moreover, flux of the bovine serum albumin (BSA) solution was noticeably larger than that of pure water for the grafted membrane. Higher BSA flux than water flux can be explained by the effects of electric double layer compression on the polymeric swelling. This study not only provided a pH-sensitive PVDF membrane potentially useful for various applications, but also proposed novel mechanisms underlying the enhanced performance of the grafted membrane.
Modulation of Peptide Based Nano-Assemblies with Electric and Magnetic Fields
Authors: Pandey Gaurav , Saikia Jahnu , Sasidharan Sajitha , Joshi Deep C. , Thota Subhash , Nemade Harshal B. , Chaudhary Nitin , Ramakrishnan Vibin
Published: May 2017

Peptide based nano-assemblies with their self-organizing ability has shown lot of promise due to their high degree of thermal and chemical stability, for biomaterial fabrication. Developing an effective way to control the organization of these structures is important for fabricating application-oriented materials at the molecular level. The present study reports the impact of electric and magnetic field-mediated perturbation of the self-assembly phenomenon, upon the chemical and structural properties of diphenylalanine assembly. Our studies show that, electric field effectively arrests aggregation and self-assembly formation, while the molecule is allowed to anneal in the presence of applied electric fields of varying magnitudes, both AC and DC. The electric field exposure also modulated the morphology of the self-assembled structures without affecting the overall chemical constitution of the material. Our results on the modulatory effect of the electric field are in good agreement with theoretical studies based on molecular dynamics reported earlier on amyloid forming molecular systems. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the self-assemblies formed post electric-field exposure, showed difference in their crystal habit. Modulation of nano-level architecture of peptide based model systems with external stimulus, points to a potentially rewarding strategy to re-work proven nano-materials to expand their application spectrum.
Expression profiles of cholesterol metabolism-related genes are altered during development of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis in the rat spinal cord
Authors: Lavrnja Irena , Smiljanic Kosara , Savic Danijela , Mladenovic-Djordjevic Aleksandra , Tesovic Katarina , Kanazir Selma , Pekovic Sanja
Published: May 2017

Increased evidence suggests that dysregulation of cholesterol metabolism may be a key event contributing to progression of multiple sclerosis (MS). Using an experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model of MS we revealed specific changes in the mRNA and protein expression of key molecules involved in the maintaining of cholesterol homeostasis in the rat spinal cord: 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme-A reductase (HMGCR), apolipoprotein E (ApoE) and cholesterol 24-hydroxylase (CYP46A1) during the course of disease. The presence of myelin lipid debris was seen only at the peak of EAE in demyelination loci being efficiently removed during the recovery period. Since CYP46A1 is responsible for removal of cholesterol excess, we performed a detailed profiling of CYP46A1 expression and revealed regional and temporal specificities in its distribution. Double immunofluorescence staining demonstrated CYP46A1 localization with neurons, infiltrated macrophages, microglia and astrocytes in the areas of demyelination, suggesting that these cells play a role in cholesterol turnover in EAE. We propose that alterations in the regulation of cholesterol metabolism at the onset and peak of EAE may add to the progression of disease, while during the recovery period may have beneficial effects contributing to the regeneration of myelin sheath and restoration of neuronal function.
An appropriate Wnt/β-catenin expression level during the remodeling phase is required for improved bone fracture healing in mice
Authors: Bao Quanwei , Chen Sixu , Qin Hao , Feng Jianquan , Liu Huayu , Liu Daocheng , Li Ang , Shen Yue , Zhao Yufeng , Li Junfeng , Zong Zhaowen
Published: May 2017

Accumulating evidence demonstrates that the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway plays a dominant role in bone repair. However, the role of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in the remodeling phase during bone fracture healing is currently unknown. In the present study, β-catenin was activated at different levels or deleted in mice at the late stage of fracture healing, and the effects on healing quality were investigated. Deletion of β-catenin disturbed bone remodeling, as confirmed by increased bone resorption and decreased bone formation, and significantly decreased bone strength compared with wildtype mice. In addition, the constitutive activation of β-catenin significantly increased the bone mass and delayed the bone remodeling process, resulting in slightly impaired bone strength. In contrast, a slight activation of β-catenin significantly increased bone formation and slightly hindered bone resorption. These effects lead to improved bone fracture healing quality compared with wildtype mice. In summary, the present study provides the first demonstration showing that Wnt/β-catenin signaling should be maintained at a slightly activated level during the late stage of fracture healing to ensure better bone fracture repair.
Quantum Phase Transition and Entanglement in Topological Quantum Wires
Authors: Cho Jaeyoon , Kim Kun Woo
Published: May 2017

We investigate the quantum phase transition of the Su-Schrieffer-Heeger (SSH) model by inspecting the two-site entanglements in the ground state. It is shown that the topological phase transition of the SSH model is signified by a nonanalyticity of local entanglement, which becomes discontinuous for finite even system sizes, and that this nonanalyticity has a topological origin. Such a peculiar singularity has a universal nature in one-dimensional topological phase transitions of noninteracting fermions. We make this clearer by pointing out that an analogous quantity in the Kitaev chain exhibiting the identical nonanalyticity is the local electron density. As a byproduct, we show that there exists a different type of phase transition, whereby the pattern of the two-site entanglements undergoes a sudden change. This transition is characterised solely by quantum information theory and does not accompany the closure of the spectral gap. We analyse the scaling behaviours of the entanglement in the vicinities of the transition points.
A high-throughput assay for quantitative measurement of PCR errors
Authors: Shagin Dmitriy A. , Shagina Irina A. , Zaretsky Andrew R. , Barsova Ekaterina V. , Kelmanson Ilya V. , Lukyanov Sergey , Chudakov Dmitriy M. , Shugay Mikhail
Published: May 2017

The accuracy with which DNA polymerase can replicate a template DNA sequence is an extremely important property that can vary by an order of magnitude from one enzyme to another. The rate of nucleotide misincorporation is shaped by multiple factors, including PCR conditions and proofreading capabilities, and proper assessment of polymerase error rate is essential for a wide range of sensitive PCR-based assays. In this paper, we describe a method for studying polymerase errors with exceptional resolution, which combines unique molecular identifier tagging and high-throughput sequencing. Our protocol is less laborious than commonly-used methods, and is also scalable, robust and accurate. In a series of nine PCR assays, we have measured a range of polymerase accuracies that is in line with previous observations. However, we were also able to comprehensively describe individual errors introduced by each polymerase after either 20 PCR cycles or a linear amplification, revealing specific substitution preferences and the diversity of PCR error frequency profiles. We also demonstrate that the detected high-frequency PCR errors are highly recurrent and that the position in the template sequence and polymerase-specific substitution preferences are among the major factors influencing the observed PCR error rate.
A simple and rapid LC-MS/MS method for therapeutic drug monitoring of cetuximab: a GPCO-UNICANCER proof of concept study in head-and-neck cancer patients
Authors: Becher François , Ciccolini Joseph , Imbs Diane-Charlotte , Marin Clémence , Fournel Claire , Dupuis Charlotte , Fakhry Nicolas , Pourroy Bertrand , Ghettas Aurélie , Pruvost Alain , Junot Christophe , Duffaud Florence , Lacarelle Bruno , Salas Sebastien
Published: May 2017

Administration of first-in-class anti-EGFR monoclonal antibody cetuximab is contingent upon extensive pharmacogenomic testing. However in addition to tumor genomics, drug exposure levels could play a critical, yet largely underestimated role, because several reports have demonstrated that cetuximab pharmacokinetic parameters, in particular clearance values, were associated with survival in patients. Here, we have developed an original bioanalytical method based upon the use of LC-MS/MS technology and a simplified sample preparation procedure to assay cetuximab in plasma samples from patients, thus meeting the requirements of standard Therapeutic Drug Monitoring in routine clinical practice. When tested prospectively in a pilot study in 25 head-and-neck cancer patients, this method showed that patients with clinical benefit had cetixumab residual concentrations higher than non-responding patients (i.e., 49 ± 16.3 µg/ml VS. 25.8 ± 17 µg/ml, p < 0.01 t test). Further ROC analysis showed that 33.8 µg/ml was the Cmin threshold predictive of response with an acceptable sensitivity (87%) and specificity (78%). Mass spectrometry-based therapeutic drug monitoring of cetuximab in head-and-neck cancer patients could therefore help to rapidly predict cetuximab efficacy and to adapt dosing if required.
Transcription Factor Forkhead Regulates Expression of Antimicrobial Peptides in the Tobacco Hornworm, Manduca sexta
Authors: Zhong Xue , Chowdhury Munmun , Li Chun-Feng , Yu Xiao-Qiang
Published: May 2017

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) play an important role in defense against microbial infections in insects. Expression of AMPs is regulated mainly by NF-κB factors Dorsal, Dif and Relish. Our previous study showed that both NF-κB and GATA-1 factors are required for activation of moricin promoter in the tobacco hornworm, Manduca sexta, and a 140-bp region in the moricin promoter contains binding sites for additional transcription factors. In this study, we identified three forkhead (Fkh)-binding sites in the 140-bp region of the moricin promoter and several Fkh-binding sites in the lysozyme promoter, and demonstrated that Fkh-binding sites are required for activation of both moricin and lysozyme promoters by Fkh factors. In addition, we found that Fkh mRNA was undetectable in Drosophila S2 cells, and M. sexta Fkh (MsFkh) interacted with Relish-Rel-homology domain (RHD) but not with Dorsal-RHD. Dual luciferase assays with moricin mutant promoters showed that co-expression of MsFkh with Relish-RHD did not have an additive effect on the activity of moricin promoter, suggesting that MsFkh and Relish regulate moricin activation independently. Our results suggest that insect AMPs can be activated by Fkh factors under non-infectious conditions, which may be important for protection of insects from microbial infection during molting and metamorphosis.
A proof-of-concept study for developing integrated two-photon microscopic and magnetic resonance imaging modality at ultrahigh field of 16.4 tesla
Authors: Cui Meng , Zhou Yifeng , Wei Bowen , Zhu Xiao-Hong , Zhu Wei , Sanders Mark A. , Ugurbil Kamil , Chen Wei
Published: May 2017

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) based on the blood oxygen level dependent (BOLD) contrast has gained a prominent position in neuroscience for imaging neuronal activity and studying effective brain connectivity under working state and functional connectivity at resting state. However, the fundamental questions in regards to fMRI technology: how the BOLD signal inferences the underlying microscopic neuronal activity and physiological changes and what is the ultimate specificity of fMRI for functional mapping of microcircuits, remain unanswered. The capability of simultaneous fMRI measurement and functional microscopic imaging in a live brain thus holds the key to link the microscopic and mesoscopic neural dynamics to the macroscopic brain activity at the central nervous system level. Here we report the first demonstration to integrate high-resolution two-photon fluorescence microscopy (TPM) with a 16.4 tesla MRI system, which proves the concept and feasibility for performing simultaneous high-resolution fMRI and TPM imaging at ultrahigh magnetic field.
Adipose tissue dysfunction as a central mechanism leading to dysmetabolic obesity triggered by chronic exposure to p,p’-DDE
Authors: Pestana Diogo , Teixeira Diana , Meireles Manuela , Marques Cláudia , Norberto Sónia , Sá Carla , Fernandes Virgínia C. , Correia-Sá Luísa , Faria Ana , Guardão Luísa , Guimarães João T. , Cooper Wendy N. , Sandovici Ionel , Domingues Valentina F. , Delerue-Matos Cristina , Monteiro Rosário , Constância Miguel , Calhau Conceição
Published: May 2017

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals such as p,p’-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (p,p’-DDE), are bioaccumulated in the adipose tissue (AT) and have been implicated in the obesity and diabetes epidemic. Thus, it is hypothesized that p,p’-DDE exposure could aggravate the harm of an obesogenic context. We explored the effects of 12 weeks exposure in male Wistar rats’ metabolism and AT biology, assessing a range of metabolic, biochemical and histological parameters. p,p’-DDE -treatment exacerbated several of the metabolic syndrome-accompanying features induced by high-fat diet (HF), such as dyslipidaemia, glucose intolerance and hypertension. A transcriptome analysis comparing mesenteric visceral AT (vAT) of HF and HF/DDE groups revealed a decrease in expression of nervous system and tissue development-related genes, with special relevance for the neuropeptide galanin that also revealed DNA methylation changes at its promoter region. Additionally, we observed an increase in transcription of dipeptidylpeptidase 4, as well as a plasmatic increase of the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1β. Our results suggest that p,p’-DDE impairs vAT normal function and effectively decreases the dynamic response to energy surplus. We conclude that p,p’-DDE does not merely accumulate in fat, but may contribute significantly to the development of metabolic dysfunction and inflammation. Our findings reinforce their recognition as metabolism disrupting chemicals, even in non-obesogenic contexts.
Chicken IFN Kappa: A Novel Cytokine with Antiviral Activities
Authors: Santhakumar Diwakar , Iqbal Munir , Nair Venugopal , Munir Muhammad
Published: May 2017

Interferons (IFNs) are essential components of the host innate immune system and define first-line of defence against pathogens. In mammals, several type I IFNs are identified, however, only limited data is available on the repertoire of IFNs in avian species. Here we report the characterization of chicken IFN-κ (chIFN-κ) near the type I IFN locus on the sex-determining Z chromosome. Genetic, evolutionary and syntenic analyses indicate that chIFN-κ is a type I IFN with conserved genetic features and promoter binding sites. chIFN-κ regulated the IFN-stimulated response element signalling pathways and activated a panel of IFN-regulated genes, antiviral mediators and transcriptional regulators. Priming of chicken primary fibroblasts and tracheal organ cultures with chIFN-κ imparted cellular protections against viral infections both in vitro and ex vivo. To determine whether chIFN-κ defines the antiviral state in developing chicken embryos, we used replication-competent retroviral RCAS vector system to generate transgenic chicken embryos that constitutively and stably expressed chIFN-κ. We could demonstrate that chIFN-κ markedly inhibited the replication of avian RNA viruses in ovo. Collectively, these results shed the light on the repertoire of IFNs in avian species and provide functional data on the interaction of the chIFN-κ with RNA viruses of poultry and public health importance.
Influences of glutamine administration on response selection and sequence learning: a randomized-controlled trial
Authors: Jongkees Bryant J. , Immink Maarten A. , Colzato Lorenza S.
Published: May 2017

Precursors of neurotransmitters are increasingly often investigated as potential, easily-accessible methods of neuromodulation. However, the amino-acid glutamine, precursor to the brain’s main excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters glutamate and GABA, remains notably little investigated. The current double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study provides first evidence 2.0 g glutamine administration in healthy adults affects response selection but not motor sequence learning in a serial reaction time task. Specifically, glutamine increased response selection errors when the current target response required a different hand than the directly preceding target response, which might indicate enhanced cortical excitability via a presumed increase in glutamate levels. These results suggest glutamine can alter cortical excitability but, despite the critical roles of glutamate and GABA in motor learning, at its current dose glutamine does not affect sequence learning.
Alternative splicing shapes transcriptome but not proteome diversity in Physcomitrella patens
Authors: Fesenko Igor , Khazigaleeva Regina , Kirov Ilya , Kniazev Andrey , Glushenko Oksana , Babalyan Konstantin , Arapidi Georgij , Shashkova Tatyana , Butenko Ivan , Zgoda Victor , Anufrieva Ksenia , Seredina Anna , Filippova Anna , Govorun Vadim
Published: May 2017

Alternative splicing (AS) can significantly impact the transcriptome and proteome of a eukaryotic cell. Here, using transcriptome and proteome profiling data, we analyzed AS in two life forms of the model moss Physcomitrella patens, namely protonemata and gametophores, as well as in protoplasts. We identified 12 043 genes subject to alternative splicing and analyzed the extent to which AS contributes to proteome diversity. We could distinguish a few examples that unambiguously indicated the presence of two or more splice isoforms from the same locus at the proteomic level. Our results indicate that alternative isoforms have a small effect on proteome diversity. We also revealed that mRNAs and pre-mRNAs have thousands of complementary binding sites for long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) that may lead to potential interactions in transcriptome. This finding points to an additional level of gene expression and AS regulation by non-coding transcripts in Physcomitrella patens. Among the differentially expressed and spliced genes we found serine/arginine-rich (SR) genes, which are known to regulate AS in cells. We found that treatment with abscisic (ABA) and methyl jasmonic acids (MeJA) led to an isoform-specific response and suggested that ABA in gametophores and MeJA in protoplasts regulate AS and the transcription of SR genes.
One-Step Fabrication of Pyranine Modified- Reduced Graphene Oxide with Ultrafast and Ultrahigh Humidity Response
Authors: Chen Zhuo , Wang Yao , Shang Ying , Umar Ahmad , Xie Peng , Qi Qi , Zhou Guofu
Published: May 2017

A facile one-step supramolecular assembly method is adopted to modify reduced graphene oxide (rGO) with functional organic molecule pyranine for achieving comprehensive humidity sensing performance. The fabricated humidity sensor based on pyranine modified-reduced graphene oxide (Pyr-rGO) exhibits excellent sensing performance with ultrafast (<2 s) and ultrahigh response of IL/IH = 6000 as relative humidity (RH) consecutively changes between 11% and 95%; small hysteresis of 8% RH; reliable repeatability and stability. In addition, a detailed mechanism analysis is performed to investigate the difference in water adsorption and ions transfer under various RH levels. Notably, the one-step supramolecular assembly method to prepare Pyr-rGO provides a new insight into developing novel functional humidity sensing materials with enhanced device performance.
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Chinese forest soils: profile composition, spatial variations and source apportionment
Authors: Syed Jabir Hussain , Iqbal Mehreen , Zhong Guangcai , Katsoyiannis Athanasios , Yadav Ishwar Chandra , Li Jun , Zhang Gan
Published: May 2017

Previous studies reported that forest ecosystems can play a vital role in scavenging anthropogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and act as primary reservoirs of these environmental pollutants. The present study aimed to investigate the occurrence, spatial pattern and source apportionment of PAHs across Chinese background forest soils (O- & A-horizons). The 143 soils collected from 30 mountains showed significantly (p < 0.05) higher levels of ∑15PAHs (ng g−1 dw) in O-horizon (222 ± 182) than A-horizon (168 ± 161). A progressive increase in the levels of lighter PAHs was observed along altitudinal gradient, however heavier PAHs did not show any variations. Carbon contents (TOC & BC) of forest soils were found weakly correlated (p < 0.01) with low molecular weight (LMW)-PAHs but showed no relation with high molecular weight (HMW)-PAHs. Source apportionment results using PMF and PCA revealed that PAHs in forest soils mainly come from local biomass burning and/or coal combustion and attributed that forest soils may become a potential sink for PAHs in the region.
Wide-angle scanning planar array with quasi-hemispherical-pattern elements
Authors: Wang Ren , Wang Bing-Zhong , Hu Changhai , Ding Xiao
Published: May 2017

A compact quasi-hemispherical-pattern antenna, two linear wide-angle scanning arrays, and a planar wide-angle scanning array are proposed. To increase the field-of-view scanning range of arrays, a compact low-profile antenna with a quasi-hemispherical pattern is introduced firstly. When the ground is infinite, the proposed antenna has a quasi-hemispherical pattern, i.e., an approximately uniform radiation in the upper half space. Afterward, two linear arrays arranged along the length and width of the proposed antenna’s radiation patch are presented. The main beams of the two arrays with 16 active elements can scan from less than −75° to more than +75°. When the linear array element number is 128, the maximum scanning angle can reach 86°. At last, a planar array with 16 × 16 active elements is proposed. In two special planes, xz plane and yz plane, the main beams of the planar array can scan from less than −77° to more than +77° with a gain fluctuation less than 5 dB and a maximum side lobe level (SLL) less than −10 dB. An excellent wide-angle-scanning performance both in linear and planar arrays can be obtained using the proposed method.
Metabolic responses of a phototrophic sponge to sedimentation supports transitions to sponge-dominated reefs
Authors: Biggerstaff Andrew , Smith David J. , Jompa Jamaluddin , Bell James J.
Published: May 2017

Declines in coral abundance have been linked to increased sedimentation at many locations across the world and at some of these locations there have been subsequent increases in sponge abundance. These shifts appear counterintuitive as sponges are suspension feeders and many rely on photosymbionts for carbon. At a sedimented reef in Indonesia (Wakatobi) corals have declined and the photoautotrophic sponge Lamellodysidea herbacea is now abundant. We hypothesise that this is partly due to L. herbacea’s ability to clear its tissues of high levels of settled-sediment and compensate for associated metabolic demands by altering its respiration rate. Negligible detrimental effects to sponge tissue were observed after treatments up to five times the sedimentation rate of the highly sedimented reef. Rapid sediment clearance occurred that was potentially aided by mucus production. Finally, high sediment exposure caused an immediate reduction in respiration rate, likely due to reduced pumping to prevent clogging, whereas sustained high sedimentation caused an increase in respiration rate, potentially due to the energetic cost of mucus production. Our study provides evidence that some sponges can tolerate environments that appear unsuitable to many corals and with increased sedimentation this acclimation may support further transitions to sponge dominated reefs in the future.
Lower SHBG level is associated with higher leptin and lower adiponectin levels as well as metabolic syndrome, independent of testosterone
Authors: Liu Chia-Chu , Huang Shu-Pin , Cheng Kai-Hung , Hsieh Tusty-Jiuan , Huang Chun-Nung , Wang Chii-Jye , Yeh Hsin-Chih , Tsai Chia-Chun , Bao Bo-Ying , Wu Wen-Jeng , Lee Yung-Chin
Published: May 2017

In addition to testosterone (T), the emerging role of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) in pathogenesis of metabolic syndrome (MetS) has been noted recently. However, reports of associations with serum adipocytokine levels are still limited. Therefore, we conducted this study to evaluate whether serum T and SHBG levels are independent predictors for the risk of MetS that are associated with adiponectin and leptin levels in 614 Taiwanese men over 40 years old collected from a free health screening. Subjects in the lowest quartile of TT and SHBG levels are exposed to a 1.58 and 3.22 times risk of developing MetS, as compared to those in the highest quartile of TT and SHBG levels. However, SHBG retains its significance independent of TT as a MetS risk predictor, but not vice versa. In addition, SHBG was significantly correlated with both adiponectin and leptin levels even after adjusting for TT levels. In conclusion, SHBG served as a major predictor for the risk of MetS and was correlated with serum adiponectin and leptin levels that are independent of T. Further studies are needed to elucidate the true role of SHBG in the pathogenesis of MetS and possible mechanisms associated with serum adiponectin and leptin levels.
Overexpression of CIP2A is associated with poor prognosis in multiple myeloma
Authors: Liu Xuewen , Cao Wei , Qin Shanshan , Zhang Te , Zheng Junnian , Dong Ying , Ming Pinghong , Cheng Qian , Lu Zheng , Guo Yang , Zhang Baofu , Liu Ying
Published: May 2017

Cancerous inhibitor of protein phosphatase 2A (CIP2A), an endogenous protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) inhibitor, has been identified as an oncoprotein in promoting cancer initiation and progression of several types of cancer. However, the expression and the role played by CIP2A in the pathogenesis of multiple myeloma (MM) remain unclear. In this study, we showed that CIP2A was overexpressed in human MM cell lines and MM patients’ bone marrow tissues. Clinicopathologic analysis showed that CIP2A expression was significantly correlated with clinical stage and percent of plasma cells in bone marrow. Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed that patients with high CIP2A expression presented with poorer overall survival rates than those with low CIP2A expression. Moreover, CIP2A knockdown in MM cells resulted in attenuated proliferative abilities. In addition, CIP2A depletion sensitizes dexamethasone (Dex)-resistant cells to Dex. The effect of CIP2A on proliferation and Dex therapy was mediated by the inhibition of PP2A, which in turn activated Akt. In vivo studies confirmed that CIP2A regulated MM tumorigenesis and the phosphorylation of Akt. Taken together, our results suggest that CIP2A oncoprotein plays an important role in MM progression and could serve as a prognosis marker and a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of patients with MM.
Near-complete suppression of surface losses and total internal quantum efficiency in BiVO4 photoanodes
Authors: Trześniewski Bartek J. , Digdaya Ibadillah A. , Nagaki Tetsuro , Ravishankar Sandheep , Herraiz-Cardona Isaac , Vermaas David A. , Longo Alessandro , Gimenez Sixto , Smith Wilson A.
Published: May 2017

Bismuth vanadate (BiVO4) is one of the most efficient light absorbing metal oxides for solar water splitting.
Progress of crystallization in microfluidic devices
Authors: Shi Huan-huan , Xiao Yan , Ferguson Steven , Huang Xin , Wang Na , Hao Hong-xun
Published: May 2017

An overview of the materials and structures, applications and modern analytical technology for microfluidic crystallization is presented.
Multiplex detection of cardiac biomarkers
Authors: Sonawane Mukesh Digambar , Nimse Satish Balasaheb , Song Keum-Soo , Kim Taisun
Published: May 2017

A method for multiplex detection of three cardiac markers cTnI, NT-proBNP, and cTnT specific to CVD is reported.
Dual external field-responsive polyaniline-coated magnetite/silica nanoparticles for smart fluid applications
Authors: Noh Jungchul , Hong Seunghee , Yoon Chang-Min , Lee Seungae , Jang Jyongsik
Published: May 2017

In this communication, an electromagnetorheological fluid containing Fe3O4/SiO2/PANI nanoparticles is reported to demonstrate its controllable rheological properties under electric and magnetic fields.
Accelerating chemical reactions by molecular sledding
Authors: Zhang Lei , Zheng Lifei , Meng Zhuojun , Balinin Konstantin , Loznik Mark , Herrmann Andreas
Published: May 2017

The speed-up of covalent bond formation and cleavage were both achieved by utilizing sliding peptide-modified functionalities moving on DNA.
Mesoporous titanium and niobium nitrides as conductive and stable electrocatalyst supports in acid environments
Authors: Fritz Kevin E. , Beaucage Peter A. , Matsuoka Fumiaki , Wiesner Ulrich , Suntivich Jin
Published: May 2017

Mesoporous TiN and NbN synthesized using a block copolymer self-assembly are evaluated for catalyst support applications in acid environments.
Modular assembly of porous organic cage crystals: isoreticular quasiracemates and ternary co-crystal
Authors: Tothadi Srinu , Little Marc A. , Hasell Tom , Briggs Michael E. , Chong Samantha Y. , Liu Ming , Cooper Andrew I.
Published: May 2017

Co-crystallisation of helically chiral porous organic cage molecules has enabled the formation of isoreticular quasiracemates and a rare porous organic ternary co-crystal.
Specific DNA sequences allosterically enhance protein–protein interaction in a transcription factor through modulation of protein dynamics: implications for specificity of gene regulation
Authors: Mazumder Abhishek , Batabyal Subrata , Mondal Manas , Mondol Tanumoy , Choudhury Susobhan , Ghosh Raka , Chatterjee Tanaya , Bhattacharyya Dhananjay , Pal Samir Kumar , Roy Siddhartha
Published: May 2017

Most genes are regulated by multiple transcription factors, often assembling into multi-protein complexes in the gene regulatory region.
Structural evolution and dielectric properties of suspensions of carbon nanotubes in nematic liquid crystals
Authors: Tomylko S. , Yaroshchuk O. , Koval'chuk O. , Lebovka N.
Published: May 2017

Smeared electrical percolation transition in suspensions of carbon nanotubes in nematic liquid crystal was revealed. Four stages of structural evolution were identified.
Particles with selective wetting affect spinodal decomposition microstructures
Authors: Ghosh Supriyo , Mukherjee Arnab , Abinandanan T. A. , Bose Suryasarathi
Published: May 2017

We have used mesoscale simulations to study the effect of immobile particles on microstructure formation during spinodal decomposition in ternary mixtures such as polymer blends.
On the underestimated impact of the gelation temperature on macro- and mesoporosity in monolithic silica
Authors: Meinusch Rafael , Ellinghaus Rüdiger , Hormann Kristof , Tallarek Ulrich , Smarsly Bernd M.
Published: May 2017

Elucidating pore formation in monolithic SiO2: small variations in gelation temperature have a surprisingly strong impact on the meso- and macroporosity.
Investigation of plasmon resonance in metal/dielectric nanocavities for high-efficiency photocatalytic device
Authors: Rajput Nitul S. , Shao-Horn Yang , Li Xin-Hao , Kim Sang-Gook , Jouiad Mustapha
Published: May 2017

Photocatalytic nanostructures loaded with metallic nanoparticles are being considered as a potential candidate for designing efficient water splitting devices.
Tris(2-pyridyl)phosphine as a versatile ligand for pnictogen acceptors
Authors: Suter Riccardo , Sinclair Hannah , Burford Neil , McDonald Robert , Ferguson Michael J. , Schrader Erik
Published: May 2017

We report cationic complexes of arsenic and antimony with the tris(2-pyridyl)phosphine ligand. Chloride ion abstraction from the main group halide using TMSOTf in presence of the ligand gives [P(Pyr)3Pn][OTf]3, in which the trication adopts a Janus Head type complex with a C3v symmetric cage structure and two apical lone pairs.
Iridium(iii) homo- and heterogeneous catalysed hydrogen borrowing C–N bond formation
Authors: Wong Chin M. , McBurney Roy T. , Binding Samantha C. , Peterson Matthew B. , Gonçales Vinicius R. , Gooding J. Justin , Messerle Barbara A.
Published: May 2017

Ir(iii) complexes were found to be highly active catalysts for the hydrogen borrowing coupling of amines and alcohols.
Synthesis of isoquinolones via Rh-catalyzed C–H activation of substituted benzamides using air as the sole oxidant in water
Authors: Upadhyay Nitinkumar Satyadev , Thorat Vijaykumar H. , Sato Ryota , Annamalai Pratheepkumar , Chuang Shih-Ching , Cheng Chien-Hong
Published: May 2017

We report a new approach for a highly regioselective synthesis of isoquinolones from various substituted benzamides and alkynes.
Rational design and synthesis of novel phenylsulfonyl-benzamides as anti-prostate cancer agents
Authors: Bassetto Marcella , Ferla Salvatore , Giancotti Gilda , Pertusati Fabrizio , Westwell Andrew D. , Brancale Andrea , McGuigan Christopher
Published: May 2017

A novel antiproliferative molecular scaffold was designed by rational modification of known antiandrogens, achieving a significant improvement in anti-cancer activity.
Synthesis, structures and magnetic properties of chiral 3d–3d′–4f heterotrimetallic complexes based on [(Tp*)Fe(CN)3]−
Authors: Deng Xiao-Wei , Cai Li-Zheng , Zhu Zhao-Xia , Gao Feng , Zhou Yan-Ling , Yao Min-Xia
Published: May 2017

A series of chiral cyano- and phenolate-bridged heterotrimetallic compounds have been obtained. The Dy and Tb derivatives exhibit similar single-molecule magnetic behaviors under a 1000 Oe dc field.
Mussel-inspired thermoresponsive polymers with a tunable LCST by Cu(0)-LRP for the construction of smart TiO2 nanocomposites
Authors: Wang Donghao , Guo Shutong , Zhang Qiang , Wilson Paul , Haddleton David M.
Published: May 2017

Thermoresponsive polymers with different microstructures, a tunable LCST and terminal catechol anchors were synthesized by Cu(0)-LRP for the surface functionalization of TiO2 nanoparticles.
Hydrophilic surface molecularly imprinted naringin prepared via reverse atom transfer radical polymerization with excellent recognition ability in a pure aqueous phase
Authors: Feng Xuexue , Wu Tielei , Yu Bingqing , Wang Yan , Zhong Shian
Published: May 2017

An easy and highly efficient method using hydrophilic surface molecularly imprinted polymers (SMIPs) for the selective recognition of naringin from pure aqueous solution was developed.
Exploring the origin of phosphodiesterase inhibition via proteochemometric modeling
Authors: Rasti Behnam , Schaduangrat Nalini , Shahangian S. Shirin , Nantasenamat Chanin
Published: May 2017

A proteochemometric study of a set of phosphodiesterase 4B and 4D inhibitors sheds light on the origin of their inhibition and selectivities.
Poly(2-vinylpyridine) brushes as a reaction chamber to fabricate spiky gold nanoparticles
Authors: Wang Wenqin , Zou Hanzhi , Xing Guoke , Shang Mengying , Chen Tao
Published: May 2017

AuCl4− ions loaded in poly(2-vinylpyridine) brushes were reduced by pyrrole, one-step synthesized spiky gold nanoparticles and polypyrrole.
Utilization of Euryale ferox Salisbury seed shell for removal of basic fuchsin dye from water: equilibrium and kinetics investigation
Authors: Kalita S. , Pathak M. , Devi G. , Sarma H. P. , Bhattacharyya K. G. , Sarma A. , Devi A.
Published: May 2017

Euryale ferox Salisbury (E. ferox) is an environmentally and economically important wetland macrophyte.
Asymmetric passivation of edges: a route to make magnetic graphene nanoribbons
Authors: Yi Wen-cai , Liu Wei , Zhao Lei , Islam Rashed , Miao Mao-sheng , Liu Jing-yao
Published: May 2017

Zigzag graphene nanoribbons (ZGNRs) are known to carry interesting properties beyond graphene, such as finite band gaps and magnetic properties.
Synthesis of micro-mesoporous materials ZSM-5/FDU-12 and the performance of dibenzothiophene hydrodesulfurization
Authors: Zhang Honglei , Han Longnian , Duan Aijun , Xu Chunming , Zhao Zhen , Wei Yuechang , Jiang Guiyuan , Liu Jian , Wang Dong , Xia Zesheng
Published: May 2017

The micro-mesoporous materials ZF-x (ZSM-5-FDU-12, x = SiO2/Al2O3) with different molar ratios of SiO2/Al2O3 were synthesized by an in situ nano-assembly method with the ZSM-5 precursor serving as the silica source.
Copper-catalyzed N-alkylation of indoles by N-tosylhydrazones
Authors: Ling Li , Cao Jing , Hu Jianfeng , Zhang Hao
Published: May 2017

An efficient method for direct N-alkylation of indoles via copper-catalyzed reductive cross coupling between N-tosylhydrazones and indoles has been developed.
Magnetic ZnFe2O4@chitosan encapsulated in graphene oxide for adsorptive removal of organic dye
Authors: Wu Xi-Lin , Xiao Peiyuan , Zhong Shuxian , Fang Keming , Lin Hongjun , Chen Jianrong
Published: May 2017

Magnetic ZnFe2O4@chitosan (ZnFe2O4@CS) encapsulated into graphene oxide (GO) layers was fabricated. The ZnFe2O4@CS/GO composites showed excellent adsorption capacity towards organic dye.
Optically transparent dense colloidal gels
Authors: Zupkauskas M. , Lan Y. , Joshi D. , Ruff Z. , Eiser E.
Published: May 2017

Fluorinated latex particles were synthesized and functionalized with single stranded-DNA, facilitating controlled aggregation into porous gel networks; these can be studied deep into the bulk phase due to refractive-index matching.
Divergent [{ONNN}Mg–Cl] complexes in highly active and living lactide polymerization
Authors: Rosen Tomer , Goldberg Israel , Navarra Wanda , Venditto Vincenzo , Kol Moshe
Published: May 2017

The longest PLA stereo-diblock copolymer by one-pot synthesis.
Hierarchically tubular nitrogen-doped carbon structures for the oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Wei Wei , Ge Hongtao , Huang Linsong , Kuang Min , Al-Enizi Abdullah M. , Zhang Lijuan , Zheng Gengfeng
Published: May 2017

A hierarchically tubular nitrogen-doped carbon structure was developed, featuring high pyridinic and graphitic nitrogen doping ratios and excellent ORR activity.
Lithium metal protected by atomic layer deposition metal oxide for high performance anodes
Authors: Chen Lin , Connell Justin G. , Nie Anmin , Huang Zhennan , Zavadil Kevin R. , Klavetter Kyle C. , Yuan Yifei , Sharifi-Asl Soroosh , Shahbazian-Yassar Reza , Libera Joseph A. , Mane Anil U. , Elam Jeffrey W.
Published: May 2017

Conformal Al2O3 coating improves wettability of liquid electrolyte on lithium leading to homogenous electrodeposition, reduced dendrite growth, and improved cyclability.
A liquid crystal material as the third component for ternary polymer solar cells with an efficiency of 10.83% and enhanced stability
Authors: Ma Xiaoling , Zhang Fujun , An Qiaoshi , Sun Qianqian , Zhang Miao , Miao Jianli , Hu Zhenghao , Zhang Jian
Published: May 2017

BTR as a nucleating agent is incorporated into PTB7-Th:PC71BM to optimize their molecular arrangement and phase separation. The PCE and stability of the ternary PSCs are simultaneously improved due to the optimized morphology.
Advances in technologies for pharmaceuticals and personal care products removal
Authors: Xu Yin , Liu Tingjiao , Zhang Ying , Ge Fei , Steel Rachel M. , Sun Luyi
Published: May 2017

Recent progresses in PPCP removal technologies are summarized, especially on adsorption and advanced oxidation processes using various materials.
How a grafting anchor tailors the cellular uptake and in vivo fate of dendronized iron oxide nanoparticles
Authors: Bordeianu C. , Parat A. , Affolter-Zbaraszczuk C. , Muller R. N. , Boutry S. , Begin-Colin S. , Meyer F. , Laurent S. , Felder-Flesch D.
Published: May 2017

Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles synthesized by thermal decomposition have been grafted with two dendrons bearing respectively a monophosphonic anchor (D2) or a biphosphonic tweezer (D2-2P) at their focal point.
RGD/CTX-conjugated multifunctional Eu–Gd2O3NRs for targeting detection and inhibition of early tumor
Authors: Wu Zhi , Huang Zhongbing , Yin Guangfu , Cai Bianyun , Wang Lei , Gao Fabao
Published: May 2017

The multifunctional Eu–Gd2O3nanorods (NRs) with targeting/limitation of early glioblastoma and enhancements ofin vivoMR and luminescence imaging were fabricated through a hydrothermal-calcination, PEGylation and thiolation conjugation of arginine–glycine–aspartic (RGD) and chlorotoxin (CTX).
Au–Cu2−xSe heterogeneous nanocrystals for efficient photothermal heating for cancer therapy
Authors: Zhu Dewei , Liu Maixian , Liu Xin , Liu Yang , Prasad Paras N. , Swihart Mark T.
Published: May 2017

In this study, we show that Au–Cu2−xSe heterogeneous nanocrystals have great promise for use in photothermal therapy (PTT).
Immuno-silent polymer capsules encapsulating nanoparticles for bioimaging applications
Authors: Jeyaraman Jaishree , Malecka Anna , Billimoria Poonam , Shukla Akansha , Marandi Barsha , Patel Poulam M. , Jackson Andrew M. , Sivakumar Sri
Published: May 2017

PEGylated polymer capsules encapsulating LaVO4:Tb3+, GdVO4:Tb3+, Gd2O3:Tb3+, GdF3:Tb3+, YVO4:Tb3+and iron oxide nanoparticles are promising new fluorescence, magnetic and magnetofluorescence imaging agents.
Ultraviolet-enhanced electroluminescence from individual ZnO microwire/p-Si light-emitting diode by reverse tunneling effect
Authors: Xu Yingtian , Li Ying , Zhang He , Jin Liang , Fang Xuan , Shi Linlin , Xu Li , Ma Xiaohui , Zou Yonggang , Yin Jingzhi
Published: May 2017

A sharp UV emission peak at ∼400 nm dominates the electroluminescence under reverse bias owing to the tunneling effect.
Analytical plasmon dispersion in subwavelength closely spaced Au nanorod arrays from planar metal–insulator–metal waveguides
Authors: Huang Yu , Zhang Xian , Li Jianghao , Ma Lingwei , Zhang Zhengjun
Published: May 2017

The Fabry–Perot-like cavity modes in subwavelength closely spaced Au nanorod arrays can be determined from an analytical model for the plasmon dispersion in planar metal–insulator–metal (MIM) waveguides of equivalent widths.
Amino acid homeostasis and signalling in mammalian cells and organisms
Authors: Bröer Stefan , Bröer Angelika
Published: May 2017

Cells have a constant turnover of proteins that recycle most amino acids over time. Net loss is mainly due to amino acid oxidation. Homeostasis is achieved through exchange of essential amino acids with non-essential amino acids and the transfer of amino groups from oxidised amino acids to amino acid biosynthesis. This homeostatic condition is maintained through an active mTORC1 complex. Under amino acid depletion, mTORC1 is inactivated. This increases the breakdown of cellular proteins through autophagy and reduces protein biosynthesis. The general control non-derepressable 2/ATF4 pathway may be activated in addition, resulting in transcription of genes involved in amino acid transport and biosynthesis of non-essential amino acids. Metabolism is autoregulated to minimise oxidation of amino acids. Systemic amino acid levels are also tightly regulated. Food intake briefly increases plasma amino acid levels, which stimulates insulin release and mTOR-dependent protein synthesis in muscle. Excess amino acids are oxidised, resulting in increased urea production. Short-term fasting does not result in depletion of plasma amino acids due to reduced protein synthesis and the onset of autophagy. Owing to the fact that half of all amino acids are essential, reduction in protein synthesis and amino acid oxidation are the only two measures to reduce amino acid demand. Long-term malnutrition causes depletion of plasma amino acids. The CNS appears to generate a protein-specific response upon amino acid depletion, resulting in avoidance of an inadequate diet. High protein levels, in contrast, contribute together with other nutrients to a reduction in food intake.
miR-182-5p improves the viability, mitosis, migration, and invasion ability of human gastric cancer cells by down-regulating RAB27A
Authors: Li Yuling , Chen Shudong , Shan Zhengfei , Bi Liyan , Yu Shengqiang , Li Yongwei , Xu Sen
Published: May 2017

We investigated the effect of miR-182-5p on the viability, proliferation, invasion, and migration ability of human gastric cells by regulating the expression of RAB27A. Real-time PCR assay was used to detect the expression of miR-182-5 and RAB27A in human gastric carcinoma tissues, para-carcinoma tissues, and different cell lines. Western blotting was also used to determine the RAB27A expression in both tissues and cell lines. We chose the HGC-27 cell line as experiment subject as it demonstrated the highest miR-182-5p level. HGC-27 cells were transfected with different vectors and the cell viability, mitosis, invasion, and migration ability were measured through MTT assay, flow cytometry (FCM) analysis, Transwell assay, and wound healing assay. In comparison with the normal tissues, miR-182-5p is expressed at a higher level in gastric cancer (GC) tissues, while RAB27A is expressed at a lower level in cancerous tissues. The down-regulation of miR-182-5p and up-regulation of RAB27A can significantly decrease the viability, migration, invasion, and mitosis of HGC-27 cells. The target relationship between miR-182-5p and RAb27A was confirmed through a dual-luciferase reporter gene assay and Western blot assay. miR-182-5p enhances the viability, mitosis, migration, and invasion of human GC cells by down-regulating RAB27A.
Enhanced aggregation scheduler design in industrial 802.11 devices
Authors: Qian Xu , Wu Bin , Ye Tianchun
Published: May 2017

Industrial WLAN devices suffer from interface delay and poor CPU performance, which would incur an inevitable cost of throughput for aggregation schemes. An enhanced aggregation scheduler is proposed. In this proposed method, the originator's behaviour in both the upper media access control (MAC) and the lower MAC layer is modified. The originator pre‐stores subframes of the next aggregated data units despite that the block Ack is not received. Through utilising the modified method, the hardware delay overhead was minimised. Implementation on own chipset indicates that with this aggregation scheduler, higher throughput can be achieved than conventional scheduler, especially when using high rates.