bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The fates of 15N-labeled fertilizer in a wheat–soil system as influenced by fertilization practice in a loamy soil
Authors: Chen Zhaoming , Wang Huoyan , Liu Xiaowei , Lu Dianjun , Zhou Jianmin
Published: October 2016

Appropriate fertilization practice is crucial to achieve maximum wheat grain yield with minimum nitrogen (N) loss. A field 15N micro-plot experiment was conducted to determine the effects of application methods [split application (SA) and band application (BA)] and N rates (60, 150 and 240 kg ha−1) on the wheat grain yield, urea-15N fate and N efficiency in Jiangyan County, China. At high N rates, wheat grain yield was significantly higher for SA than BA treatment, but there was no difference at the lower N rates. Plant N derived from fertilizer was higher in SA than in BA treatment. The high N fertilizer application increased total N uptake by wheat derived from fertilizer, but wheat plant N derived from soil was not affected by the N rate. Fertilizer-N recovery in SA treatment was higher than in BA treatment. Residual N recovery in the 0–80 cm soil layer was 31–51%, which decreased with increasing N rate. The highest N loss was found for BA treatment at the N application of 240 kg ha−1. The one-time BA of N fertilizer, especially for higher N rates, led to reduced wheat grain yield and N efficiency, and increased the N loss.
Real internal microstructure based key mechanism analysis on the micro-damage process of short fibre-reinforced composites
Authors: Hu Xiaofang , Fang Jian , Xu Feng , Dong Bo , Xiao Yu , Wang Luobin
Published: October 2016

In this work, the underlying micro-damage mechanisms of randomly oriented short fibre-reinforced composites were revealed based on real internal microstructural characteristics obtained by high-resolution (0.7 μm/pixel) synchrotron radiation X-ray computed tomography (SR-CT). The special ‘pore dominant micro-damage processes’ were directly observed through SR-CT three-dimensional reconstructed images, which were different from the well-known ‘fibre breakage dominant failure mode’. The mechanisms of pore formation and pore evolution were further investigated on the basis of the microstructural parameters extracted from the SR-CT results. On one hand, the pore formation mechanism caused by shear stress concentration was proposed by combining the shear-lag model with the microstructural parameters obtained from the experiment, including the fibre length and orientation angle. On the other hand, the ‘fibre-end aggregation-induced pore connection’ mode of crack initiation was proposed through a composites model, which considered the parameters of real internal microstructure, including the critical value of the distance between neighbouring fibre ends and the number of neighbouring fibre ends. The study indicated that the shear stress concentration was significant in the region with a large number of neighbouring fibre ends, thus causing pore connection and crack initiation.
Anti-neuropathic effects of Rosmarinus officinalis L. terpenoid fraction: relevance of nicotinic receptors
Authors: Di Cesare Mannelli Lorenzo , Micheli Laura , Maresca Mario , Cravotto Giancarlo , Bellumori Maria , Innocenti Marzia , Mulinacci Nadia , Ghelardini Carla
Published: October 2016

Traditional uses and current results highlight the neuroprotective properties of Rosmarinus officinalis L. The compelling need for novel strategies able to relieve neuropathic pain encouraged us to analyze different rosemary leaf extracts in rats following chronic constriction injury (CCI) of sciatic nerve. Ethanol, acetone, and the innovative ultrasound-hexane extractive methods were used to obtain: EE, AE, and for hexane extracts UREprel and URE. Extracts were characterized in terms of typical constituents and repeatedly administered to CCI-rats (13-days treatment, from the day of surgery). URE showed the best efficacy and potency in reducing hypersensitivity to noxious- and non-noxious stimuli and spontaneous pain. URE contained the higher quantity of the terpenoid carnosic acid (CA) and its efficacy was compared to pure CA. Histological analysis of the sciatic nerve revealed that URE prevented axon and myelin derangement, edema and inflammatory infiltrate. In the dorsal horn of the spinal cord, URE did not reduce astrocyte activation. Both the pain reliever and the neuroconservative effects of URE were significantly prevented by the nicotinic receptor (nAChR) antagonist mecamylamine. In conclusion, the hexane-ultrasound rosemary extract is able to reduce neuropathic hypersensitivity and protect nervous tissues. Effectiveness is mainly related to the terpenoid fraction by mechanisms involving nAChRs.
Efficient Enrichment of Bacterial mRNA from Host-Bacteria Total RNA Samples
Authors: Kumar Nikhil , Lin Mingqun , Zhao Xuechu , Ott Sandra , Santana-Cruz Ivette , Daugherty Sean , Rikihisa Yasuko , Sadzewicz Lisa , Tallon Luke J. , Fraser Claire M. , Dunning Hotopp Julie C.
Published: October 2016

Despite numerous advances in genomics and bioinformatics, technological hurdles remain to examine host-microbe transcriptomics. Sometimes the transcriptome of either or both can be ascertained merely by generating more sequencing reads. However, many cases exist where bacterial mRNA needs to be enriched further to enable cost-effective sequencing of the pathogen or endosymbiont. While a suitable method is commercially available for mammalian samples of this type, development of such methods has languished for invertebrate samples. Furthermore, a common method across multiple taxa would facilitate comparisons between bacteria in invertebrate vectors and their vertebrate hosts. Here, a method is described to concurrently remove polyadenylated transcripts, prokaryotic rRNA, and eukaryotic rRNA, including those with low amounts of starting material (e.g. 100 ng). In a Wolbachia-Drosophila system, this bacterial mRNA enrichment yielded a 3-fold increase in Wolbachia mRNA abundance and a concomitant 3.3-fold increase in the percentage of transcripts detected. More specifically, 70% of the genome could be recovered by transcriptome sequencing compared to 21% in the total RNA. Sequencing of similar bacterial mRNA-enriched samples generated from Ehrlichia-infected canine cells covers 93% of the Ehrlichia genome, suggesting ubiquitous transcription across the entire Ehrlichia chaffeensis genome. This technique can potentially be used to enrich bacterial mRNA in many studies of host-microbe interactions.
How Humans Solve Complex Problems: The Case of the Knapsack Problem
Authors: Murawski Carsten , Bossaerts Peter
Published: October 2016

Life presents us with problems of varying complexity. Yet, complexity is not accounted for in theories of human decision-making. Here we study instances of the knapsack problem, a discrete optimisation problem commonly encountered at all levels of cognition, from attention gating to intellectual discovery. Complexity of this problem is well understood from the perspective of a mechanical device like a computer. We show experimentally that human performance too decreased with complexity as defined in computer science. Defying traditional economic principles, participants spent effort way beyond the point where marginal gain was positive, and economic performance increased with instance difficulty. Human attempts at solving the instances exhibited commonalities with algorithms developed for computers, although biological resource constraints–limited working and episodic memories–had noticeable impact. Consistent with the very nature of the knapsack problem, only a minority of participants found the solution–often quickly–but the ones who did appeared not to realise. Substantial heterogeneity emerged, suggesting why prizes and patents, schemes that incentivise intellectual discovery but discourage information sharing, have been found to be less effective than mechanisms that reveal private information, such as markets.
Lipid metabolism is associated with developmental epigenetic programming
Authors: Marchlewicz Elizabeth H. , Dolinoy Dana C. , Tang Lu , Milewski Samantha , Jones Tamara R. , Goodrich Jaclyn M. , Soni Tanu , Domino Steven E. , Song Peter X. K. , F. Burant Charles , Padmanabhan Vasantha
Published: October 2016

Maternal diet and metabolism impact fetal development. Epigenetic reprogramming facilitates fetal adaptation to thesein uterocues. To determine if maternal metabolite levels impact infant DNA methylation globally and at growth and development genes, we followed a clinical birth cohort of 40 mother-infant dyads. Targeted metabolomics and quantitative DNA methylation were analyzed in 1st trimester maternal plasma (M1) and delivery maternal plasma (M2) as well as infant umbilical cord blood plasma (CB). We found very long chain fatty acids, medium chain acylcarnitines, and histidine were: (1) stable in maternal plasma from pregnancy to delivery, (2) significantly correlated between M1, M2, and CB, and (3) in the top 10% of maternal metabolites correlating with infant DNA methylation, suggesting maternal metabolites associated with infant DNA methylation are tightly controlled. Global DNA methylation was highly correlated across M1, M2, and CB. Thus, circulating maternal lipids are associated with developmental epigenetic programming, which in turn may impact lifelong health and disease risk. Further studies are required to determine the causal link between maternal plasma lipids and infant DNA methylation patterns.
In vivo analysis of internal ribosome entry at the Hairless locus by genome engineering in Drosophila
Authors: Smylla Thomas K. , Preiss Anette , Maier Dieter
Published: October 2016

Cell communication in metazoans requires the highly conserved Notch signaling pathway, which is subjected to strict regulation of both activation and silencing. In Drosophila melanogaster, silencing involves the assembly of a repressor complex by Hairless (H) on Notch target gene promoters. We previously found an in-frame internal ribosome entry site in the full length H transcript resulting in two H protein isoforms (Hp120 and Hp150). Hence, H may repress Notch signalling activity in situations where cap-dependent translation is inhibited. Here we demonstrate the in vivo importance of both H isoforms for proper fly development. To this end, we replaced the endogenous H locus by constructs specifically affecting translation of either Hp150 or Hp120 isoforms using genome engineering. Our findings indicate the functional relevance of both H proteins. Based on bristle phenotypes, the predominant isoform Hp150 appears to be of particular importance. In contrast, growth regulation and venation of the wing require the concomitant activity of both isoforms. Finally, the IRES dependent production of Hp120 during mitosis was verified in vivo. Together our data confirm IRES mediated translation of H protein in vivo, supporting strict regulation of Notch in different cellular settings.
Molecular surveillance on Streptococcus pneumoniae carriage in non-elderly adults; little evidence for pneumococcal circulation independent from the reservoir in children
Authors: Wyllie Anne L. , Rümke Lidewij W. , Arp Kayleigh , Bosch Astrid A. T. M. , Bruin Jacob P. , Rots Nynke Y. , Wijmenga-Monsuur Alienke J. , Sanders Elisabeth A. M. , Trzciński Krzysztof
Published: October 2016

Carriage of Streptococcus pneumoniae in adults is rarely detected by the gold standard culture method. With molecular tests of high sensitivity now available, we analysed upper respiratory tract samples collected during autumn/winter 2012/2013 from parents of PCV7-vaccinated infants and from childless adults, directly comparing culture and qPCR-based S. pneumoniae detection. As compared to the gold standard of testing nasopharyngeal swabs, qPCR-based analysis of oral samples significantly improved detection of pneumococcal carriage (5% versus 20%, p < 0.0001) with higher carriage rates in parents compared to childless adults (34% versus 7%; p < 0.001). Molecular methods also increased the number of serotype-carriage events detected with higher carriage frequencies of serotypes 3 and 7A/F and lower of serotypes 6C/D and 15A/B/C in parents compared to their infant children. We provide evidence that culture-based methods severely underestimate adult carriage rates and for the superiority of testing oral samples over nasopharyngeal swabs. The substantial circulation of pneumococci in parents is however, not representative for the entire adult population. While age-associated differences in serotype carriage suggests reservoirs outside infants as potential sources of vaccine-serotypes contributing to weakening of vaccine herd effects, we find no evidence for reservoirs in adults contributing to serotype replacement in carriage.
Hierarchically-structured silver nanoflowers for highly conductive metallic inks with dramatically reduced filler concentration
Authors: C. Muhammed Ajmal , K. P. Faseela , Singh Swati , Baik Seunghyun
Published: October 2016

Silver has long been employed as an electrically conductive component, and morphology-dependent properties have been actively investigated. Here we present a novel scalable synthesis method of flower-shaped silver nanoparticles (silver nanoflowers, Ag NFs). The preferential affinity of citrate molecules on (111) surface of silver enabled spontaneous anisotropic growth of Ag NFs (bud size: 250~580 nm, single crystalline petal thickness: 9~22 nm) with high reproducibility and a high yield of >99.5%. The unique hierarchical structure resulted in coalescence of petals over 80~120 °C which was practically employed in conductive inks to construct percolation pathways among Ag NFs. The ink with only 3 wt% of Ag NFs provided two orders of magnitude greater conductivity (1.008 × 105 Scm−1), at a low curing temperature of 120 °C, compared with the silver nanoparticle ink with a much higher silver concentration (50 wt%). This extraordinary property may provide an excellent opportunity for Ag NFs for practical applications in printable and flexible electronics.
The influence of single nucleotide polymorphisms on the association between dietary acrylamide intake and endometrial cancer risk
Authors: Hogervorst Janneke G. F. , van den Brandt Piet A. , Godschalk Roger W. L. , van Schooten Frederik-Jan , Schouten Leo J.
Published: October 2016

It is unclear whether the association between dietary acrylamide intake and endometrial cancer risk as observed in some epidemiological studies reflects a causal relationship. We aimed at clarifying the causality by analyzing acrylamide-gene interactions for endometrial cancer risk. The prospective Netherlands Cohort Study on diet and cancer includes 62,573 women, aged 55–69 years. At baseline, a random subcohort of 2589 women was selected for a case cohort analysis approach. Acrylamide intake of subcohort members and endometrial cancer cases (n = 315) was assessed with a food frequency questionnaire. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes in acrylamide metabolism, sex steroid systems, oxidative stress and DNA repair were assessed through a MassARRAY iPLEX Platform. Interaction between acrylamide and SNPs was assessed with Cox proportional hazards analysis, based on 11.3 years of follow-up. Among the results for 57 SNPs and 2 gene deletions, there were no statistically significant interactions after adjustment for multiple testing. However, there were nominally statistically significant interactions for SNPs in acrylamide-metabolizing enzymes: CYP2E1 (rs915906 and rs2480258) and the deletions ofGSTM1andGSTT1. Although in need of confirmation, the interactions between acrylamide intake and CYP2E1 SNPs contribute to the evidence for a causal relationship between acrylamide and endometrial cancer risk.
Left Atrial trajectory impairment in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy disclosed by Geometric Morphometrics and Parallel Transport
Authors: Piras Paolo , Torromeo Concetta , Re Federica , Evangelista Antonietta , Gabriele Stefano , Esposito Giuseppe , Nardinocchi Paola , Teresi Luciano , Madeo Andrea , Chialastri Claudia , Schiariti Michele , Varano Valerio , Uguccioni Massimo , Puddu Paolo E.
Published: October 2016

The analysis of full Left Atrium (LA) deformation and whole LA deformational trajectory in time has been poorly investigated and, to the best of our knowledge, seldom discussed in patients with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. Therefore, we considered 22 patients with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) and 46 healthy subjects, investigated them by three–dimensional Speckle Tracking Echocardiography, and studied the derived landmark clouds via Geometric Morphometrics with Parallel Transport. Trajectory shape and trajectory size were different in Controls versus HCM and their classification powers had high AUC (Area Under the Receiving Operator Characteristic Curve) and accuracy. The two trajectories were much different at the transition between LA conduit and booster pump functions. Full shape and deformation analyses with trajectory analysis enabled a straightforward perception of pathophysiological consequences of HCM condition on LA functioning. It might be worthwhile to apply these techniques to look for novel pathophysiological approaches that may better define atrio–ventricular interaction.
Occurrence and preliminarily environmental risk assessment of selected pharmaceuticals in the urban rivers, China
Authors: Zhou Haidong , Ying Tianqi , Wang Xuelian , Liu Jianbo
Published: October 2016

Twelve selected pharmaceuticals including antibiotics, analgesics, antiepileptics and lipid regulators were analysed and detected in water samples collected from 18 sampling sections along the three main urban rivers in Yangpu District of Shanghai, China during four sampling campaigns. Besides, algal growth inhibition test was conducted to preliminarily assess the eco-toxicology induced by the target pharmaceuticals in the rivers. Mean levels for most of target compounds were generally below 100 ng/L at sampling sections, with the exception of caffeine and paracetamol presenting considerably high concentration. The detected pharmaceuticals in the urban rivers ranged from <LOQ for propranolol to 8571 ng/L for caffeine. Qiujiang River could be regarded as the most polluted according to total detected pharmaceutical concentrations. The target pharmaceuticals varied and fluctuated irregularly from the upstreams to the downstreams of the three rivers, indicating the wastewater inputs from non-point sources and their individual different characteristics of transference and transportation. Preliminary eco-toxicological risk assessment showed that the presence of azithromycin, clarithromycin and caffeine may present an ecotoxicological risk in the urban rivers. For other tested pharmaceuticals the inhibition effects of single substances in the urban aquatic environment, based on the algae inhibition tests, were very imperceptible.
Prognostic Value of Reverse Dipper Blood Pressure Pattern in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients not Undergoing Dialysis: Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Wang Cheng , Ye Zengchun , Li Yan , Zhang Jun , Zhang Qunzi , Ma Xinxin , Peng Hui , Lou Tanqi
Published: October 2016

The “reverse dipping” blood pressure (BP) pattern has been studied among the general population and in individuals suffering from hypertension. However, the prognosis of this pattern in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients is not known. We monitored BP throughout the day and followed health outcomes in 588 CKD patients admitted to our hospital. Time to all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, renal events and cardiovascular events was recorded. Multivariate-adjusted Cox regression analyses were carried out to detect the prognostic value of a reverse dipping BP pattern. Prevalence of a “dipper”, “non-dipper” and “reverse dippers” was 34.69%, 43.54% and 18.03%, respectively. Patients with a reverse dipping pattern had a higher prevalence of total mortality, cardiovascular mortality, renal events and cardiovascular events than patients with a dipping pattern (P < 0.025). Multivariate-adjusted Cox regression analyses showed that reverse dippers (versusdippers) were associated with a higher risk of total mortality (hazard ratio [HR], 5.08; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.79~14.47), cardiovascular mortality (4.17; 1.25~13.88), renal events (3.00; 1.59~5.65) and cardiovascular events (4.12; 1.78~9.51) even after adjustment by 24-h systolic BP. These data suggest that a reverse dipping BP pattern, independent of 24-h levels of systolic BP, has prognostic value in CKD patients not undergoing dialysis.
The effect of topical atropine on the choroidal thickness of healthy children
Authors: Zhang Zhengwei , Zhou Yuanting , Xie Zhifang , Chen Tiantian , Gu Yan , Lu Shui , Wu Zhifeng
Published: October 2016

The purpose of the current study was to investigate the effect of topical atropine on choroidal thickness using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography. A total of 30 healthy eyes from 30 children were analyzed in this study. A single drop of 1% atropine gel was administered twice daily for a week. Choroidal thickness (CT) was measured using SD-OCT, and changes in CT before and after administration of the eye drops were analyzed at the subfovea and at 1.0-mm intervals (up to 3.0 mm) from the fovea at superior, inferior, nasal, and temporal locations. Pre- and post-cycloplegic axial length (AL) was also measured using the IOLMaster. We observed that administration of 1% atropine gel led to a significant increase in the choroidal thickness under the fovea and at all intervals from the fovea. The greatest change in CT was observed in the inferior meridian, while the nasal meridian exhibited the least change. AL did not significantly differ before and after cycloplegia, and there was no significant correlation between the changes in AL and subfoveal CT. It was concluded that administration of 1% atropine gel can significantly increase CT in the eyes of young Chinese children, albeit with different magnitude at different locations.
A Nucleotide Signature for the Identification of Angelicae Sinensis Radix (Danggui) and Its Products
Authors: Wang Xiaoyue , Liu Yang , Wang Lili , Han Jianping , Chen Shilin
Published: October 2016

It is very difficult to identify Angelicae sinensis radix (Danggui) when it is processed into Chinese patent medicines. The proposed internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) is not sufficient to resolve heavily processed materials. Therefore, a short barcode for the identification of processed materials is urgently needed. In this study, 265 samples of Angelicae sinensis radix and adulterants were collected. The ITS2 region was sequenced, and based on one single nucleotide polymorphism(SNP) site unique to Angelica sinensis, a nucleotide signature consisting of 37-bp (5′-aatccgcgtc atcttagtga gctcaaggac ccttagg-3′) was developed. It is highly conserved and specific within Angelica sinensis while divergent among other species. Then, we designed primers (DG01F/DG01R) to amplify the nucleotide signature region from processed materials. 15 samples procured online were analysed. By seeking the signature, we found that 7 of them were counterfeits. 28 batches of Chinese patent medicines containing Danggui were amplified. 19 of them were found to contain the signature, and adulterants such as Ligusticum sinense, Notopterygium incisum, Angelica decursiva and Angelica gigas were detected in other batches. Thus, this nucleotide signature, with only 37-bp, will broaden the application of DNA barcoding to identify the components in decoctions, Chinese patent medicines and other products with degraded DNA.
Quantitative Profiling of Single Formalin Fixed Tumour Sections: proteomics for translational research
Authors: Hughes Christopher S. , McConechy Melissa K. , Cochrane Dawn R. , Nazeran Tayyebeh , Karnezis Anthony N. , Huntsman David G. , Morin Gregg B.
Published: October 2016

Although re-sequencing of gene panels and mRNA expression profiling are now firmly established in clinical laboratories, in-depth proteome analysis has remained a niche technology, better suited for studying model systems rather than challenging materials such as clinical trial samples. To address this limitation, we have developed a novel and optimized platform called SP3-Clinical Tissue Proteomics (SP3-CTP) for in-depth proteome profiling of practical quantities of tumour tissues, including formalin fixed and paraffin embedded (FFPE). Using single 10 μm scrolls of clinical tumour blocks, we performed in-depth quantitative analyses of individual sections from ovarian tumours covering the high-grade serous, clear cell, and endometrioid histotypes. This examination enabled the generation of a novel high-resolution proteome map of ovarian cancer histotypes from clinical tissues. Comparison of the obtained proteome data with large-scale genome and transcriptome analyses validated the observed proteome biology for previously validated hallmarks of this disease, and also identified novel protein features. A tissue microarray analysis validated cystathionine gamma-lyase (CTH) as a novel clear cell carcinoma feature with potential clinical relevance. In addition to providing a milestone in the understanding of ovarian cancer biology, these results show that in-depth proteomic analysis of clinically annotated FFPE materials can be effectively used as a biomarker discovery tool and perhaps ultimately as a diagnostic approach.
Heat-induced phytohormone changes are associated with disrupted early reproductive development and reduced yield in rice
Authors: Wu Chao , Cui Kehui , Wang Wencheng , Li Qian , Fahad Shah , Hu Qiuqian , Huang Jianliang , Nie Lixiao , Peng Shaobing
Published: October 2016

Heat stress causes morphological and physiological changes and reduces crop yield in rice (Oryza sativa). To investigate changes in phytohormones and their relationships with yield and other attributes under heat stress, four rice varieties (Nagina22, Huanghuazhan, Liangyoupeijiu, and Shanyou 63) were grown in pots and subjected to three high temperature treatments plus control in temperature-controlled greenhouses for 15 d during the early reproductive phase. Yield reductions in Nagina22, Huanghuazhan, and Liangyoupeijiu were attributed to reductions in spikelet fertility, spikelets per panicle, and grain weight. The adverse effects of high temperature were alleviated by application of exogenous 6-benzylaminopurine (6-BA) in the heat-susceptible Liangyoupeijiu. High temperature stress reduced active cytokinins, gibberellin A1 (GA1), and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), but increased abscisic acid (ABA) and bound cytokinins in young panicles. Correlation analyses and application of exogenous 6-BA revealed that high temperature-induced cytokinin changes may regulate yield components by modulating the differentiation and degradation of branches and spikelets, panicle exsertion, pollen vigor, anther dehiscence, and grain size. Heat-tolerant Shanyou 63 displayed minor changes in phytohormones, panicle formation, and grain yield under high temperature compared with those of the other three varieties. These results suggest that phytohormone changes are closely associated with yield formation, and a small reduction or stability in phytohormone content is required to avoid large yield losses under heat stress.
A novel Fe(III) dependent bioflocculant from Klebsiella oxytoca GS-4-08: culture conditions optimization and flocculation mechanism
Authors: Yu Lei , Tang Qing-wen , Zhang Yu-jia , Chen Rong-ping , Liu Xin , Qiao Wei-chuan , Li Wen-wei , Ruan Hong-hua , Song Xin
Published: October 2016

In this work, the effect of cultivation factors on the flocculation efficiency (FE) of bioflocculant P-GS408 from Klebsiella oxytoca was optimized by the response surface methodology. The most significant factor, i.e. culture time, was determined by gray relational analysis. A total of 240 mg of purified P-GS408 was prepared from 1 liter of culture solution under the optimal conditions. GC-MS analysis results indicated that the polysaccharide of P-GS408 mainly contains Rhamnose and Galactose, and the existence of abundant hydroxyl, carboxyl and amino groups was evidenced by FTIR and XPS analyses. With the aid of Fe3+, the FE of kaolin solution by P-GS408 could achieve 99.48% in ten minutes. Functional groups of polysaccharide were involved in the first adsorption step and the zeta potential of kaolin solution changed from −39.0 mV to 43.4 mV in the presence of Fe3+ and P-GS408. Three-dimensional excitation-emission (EEM) fluorescence spectra demonstrates that the trivalent Fe3+ and Al3+ can bind efficiently with P-GS408, while those univalent and divalent cations cannot. With the help of SEM images, FTIR, zeta potential and EEM spectra, we proposed the P-GS408 flocculation mechanism, which consists of coordination bond combination, charge neutrality, adsorption and bridging, and net catching.
Structural insights into conformational stability of both wild-type and mutant EZH2 receptor
Authors: Aier Imlimaong , Varadwaj Pritish Kumar , Raj Utkarsh
Published: October 2016

Polycomb group (PcG) proteins have been observed to maintain the pattern of histone by methylation of the histone tail responsible for the gene expression in various cellular processes, of which enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) acts as tumor suppressor. Overexpression of EZH2 results in hyper activation found in a variety of cancer. Point mutation on two important residues were induced and the results were compared between the wild type and mutant EZH2. The mutation of Y641 and A677 present in the active region of the protein alters the interaction of the top ranked compound with the newly modeled binding groove of the SET domain, giving a GLIDE score of −12.26 kcal/mol, better than that of the wild type at −11.664 kcal/mol. In depth analysis were carried out for understanding the underlying molecular mechanism using techniques viz. molecular dynamics, principal component analysis, residue interaction network and free energy landscape analysis, which showed that the mutated residues changed the overall conformation of the system along with the residue-residue interaction network. The insight from this study could be of great relevance while designing new compounds for EZH2 enzyme inhibition and the effect of mutation on the overall binding mechanism of the system.
Transcriptome Comparison Analysis of Ostrinia furnacalis in Four Developmental Stages
Authors: Zhang Tiantao , He Kanglai , Wang Zhenying
Published: October 2016

The Asian corn borer, Ostrinia furnacalis, is one of the most destructive pests of maize and causes huge losses in maize yield each year. In order to characterize the different developmental stages, a high-throughput sequencing platform was employed to perform de novo transcriptome assembly and gene expression analysis for the egg, larva, pupa and adult stages. Approximately 185 million reads were obtained, trimmed, and assembled into 42,638 unigenes with an average length of 801.94 bp and an N50 length of 1,152 bp. These unigene sequences were annotated and classified by performing Gene Ontology (GO), Cluster of Orthologous Groups (KOG) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) functional classifications. Comparison of the gene expression profiles of the two transitional stages revealed dramatic differences. Some differentially expressed genes are associated with digestion, cuticularization olfactory recognition and wing formation as well as growth and development. In total, 12 putative insect development-related genes were identified. Real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) results and sequencing based on relative expression levels of randomly selected genes confirmed these expression patterns. These data represent the most comprehensive transcriptomic resource currently available for O. furnacalis and will facilitate the study of developmental pathways, cuticularization, wing formation and olfactory recognition.
Olfactory experiences dynamically regulate plasticity of dendritic spines in granule cells of Xenopus tadpoles in vivo
Authors: Zhang Li , Huang Yubin , Hu Bing
Published: October 2016

Granule cells, rich in dendrites with densely punctated dendritic spines, are the most abundant inhibitory interneurons in the olfactory bulb. The dendritic spines of granule cells undergo remodeling during the development of the nervous system. The morphological plasticity of the spines’ response to different olfactory experiences in vivo is not fully known. In initial studies, a single granule cell in Xenopus tadpoles was labeled with GFP plasmids via cell electroporation; then, morphologic changes of the granule cell spines were visualized by in vivo confocal time-lapse imaging. With the help of long-term imaging, the total spine density, dynamics, and stability of four types of dendritic spines (mushroom, stubby, thin and filopodia) were obtained. Morphological analysis demonstrated that odor enrichment produced a remarkable increase in the spine density and stability of large mushroom spine. Then, with the help of short-term imaging, we analyzed the morphological transitions among different spines. We found that transitions between small spines (thin and filopodia) were more easily influenced by odor stimulation or olfactory deprivation. These results indicate that different olfactory experiences can regulate the morphological plasticity of different dendritic spines in the granule cell.
NO gas sensing kinetics at room temperature under UV light irradiation of In2O3 nanostructures
Authors: Chinh Nguyen Duc , Quang Nguyen Duc , Lee Hyundong , Thi Hien Truong , Hieu Nguyen Minh , Kim Dahye , Kim Chunjoong , Kim Dojin
Published: October 2016

In2O3 nanostructure sensors were fabricated by arc-discharging a source composed of a graphite tube containing indium. The NO gas sensing properties, as well as the morphology, structure, and electrical properties, were examined at room temperature under UV light illumination. In particular, the response and recovery kinetics of the sensor at room temperature under various UV light intensities were studied. The maximum response signal was observed at an intermediate UV light intensity, which could be corroborated by a nano-size effect based on the conduction model of a resistive chemical nano sensor. The mechanism for the enhanced adsorption/desorption kinetics for NO in an air environment under UV light irradiation is discussed in detail. Furthermore, the general requirements of the sensor, including the stability, repeatability, and selectivity, are discussed.
Translation Elongation Factor eEF1A2 is a Novel Anticancer Target for the Marine Natural Product Plitidepsin
Authors: Losada Alejandro , Muñoz-Alonso María José , García Carolina , Sánchez-Murcia Pedro A. , Martínez-Leal Juan Fernando , Domínguez Juan Manuel , Lillo M. Pilar , Gago Federico , Galmarini Carlos M.
Published: October 2016

eEF1A2 is one of the isoforms of the alpha subunit of the eukaryotic Elongation Factor 1. It is overexpressed in human tumors and is endowed with oncogenic properties, favoring tumor cell proliferation while inhibiting apoptosis. We demonstrate that plitidepsin, an antitumor agent of marine origin that has successfully completed a phase-III clinical trial for multiple myeloma, exerts its antitumor activity by targeting eEF1A2. The drug interacts with eEF1A2 with a KD of 80 nM and a target residence time of circa 9 min. This protein was also identified as capable of binding [14C]-plitidepsin in a cell lysate from K-562 tumor cells. A molecular modelling approach was used to identify a favorable binding site for plitidepsin at the interface between domains 1 and 2 of eEF1A2 in the GTP conformation. Three tumor cell lines selected for at least 100-fold more resistance to plitidepsin than their respective parental cells showed reduced levels of eEF1A2 protein. Ectopic expression of eEF1A2 in resistant cells restored the sensitivity to plitidepsin. FLIM-phasor FRET experiments demonstrated that plitidepsin localizes in tumor cells sufficiently close to eEF1A2 as to suggest the formation of drug-protein complexes in living cells. Altogether, our results strongly suggest that eEF1A2 is the primary target of plitidepsin.
An Animal Model of Modic Changes by Embedding Autogenous Nucleus Pulposus inside Subchondral Bone of Lumbar Vertebrae
Authors: Han Chao , Wang Tao , Jiang Hong-qiang , Ma Jian-xiong , Tian Peng , Zang Jia-cheng , Ma Xin-long
Published: October 2016

The establishment of Modic changes (MCs) in animal model was vital for research of MCs. Fifty-four rabbits were divided into a sham group, a muscle embedment group (ME group) and nucleus pulposus (NP) embedment group (NPE group). In the NPE group, the discs were exposed by the lumbar anterolateral surgical approach. A needle was used to puncture the L5 vertebral body close to the endplate. NP was extracted by a syringe from L1/2 intervertebral discs and then injected into the drilled hole of subchondral bone. The muscle embedment group and sham group had the same procedure and drill method as the NP embedment group. Some pieces of muscle were put into the hole in the ME group, but nothing was put into the hole in the sham group. After the operation, MRI scan and molecular biology tests were applied. The signal changes were found in the NPE group; while the sham group and the ME group showed no significant signal change. Histological observation confirmed that there was abnormal tissue proliferation in imbed site. High expression of IL-4, IL-17 and IFN-γ were detected in the NPE group. The embedment of NP into subchondral bone can create an animal model of MCs.
Determination ofl-DOPA at an optimized poly(caffeic acid) modified glassy carbon electrode
Authors: Rohanifar Ahmad , Devasurendra Amila M. , Young Joshua A. , Kirchhoff Jon R.
Published: October 2016

A glassy carbon electrode was modified by electrodeposition of a thin layer of poly(caffeic acid) and optimized for highly selective and sensitive detection ofl-DOPA.
Solution structures of alkali metal cyclopentadienides in THF estimated by ECC-DOSY NMR-spectroscopy (incl. software)
Authors: Bachmann Sebastian , Gernert Björn , Stalke Dietmar
Published: October 2016

In this paper we present the aggregational motifs of the widely used alkali-metal cyclopentadienides (CpLi, CpNa, CpK, CpRb, CpCs) in THF-d8 solution estimated by ECC-DOSY NMR spectroscopy.
B(C6F5)3-Catalyzed transfer 1,4-hydrostannylation of α,β-unsaturated carbonyls using iPr-tricarbastannatrane
Authors: Fillion Eric , Kavoosi Azadeh , Nguyen Kevin , Ieritano Christian
Published: October 2016

The hypercoordinated tin reagent iPr-tricarbastannatrane is employed in B(C6F5)3-catalyzed transfer 1,4-hydrostannanylation of electron deficient olefins.
Time-gated luminescence bioimaging with new luminescent nanocolloids based on [Mo6I8(C2F5COO)6]2−metal atom clusters
Authors: Neaime Chrystelle , Amela-Cortes Maria , Grasset Fabien , Molard Yann , Cordier Stéphane , Dierre Benjamin , Mortier Michel , Takei Toshiaki , Takahashi Kohsei , Haneda Hajime , Verelst Marc , Lechevallier Séverine
Published: October 2016

Functional silica nanoparticles based on metal atom clusters for time gated luminescence biotechnology applications.
The magnetic structure of β-cobalt hydroxide and the effect of spin-orientation
Authors: Hunt Diego , Garbarino Gastón , Rodríguez-Velamazán José Alberto , Ferrari Valeria , Jobbagy Matías , Scherlis Damian A.
Published: October 2016

Neutron diffraction experiments and DFT+Usimulations assess the magnetic structure of layered β-Co(OH)2, revealing an out-of-plane spin orientation.
Surface chemistry and catalysis confined under two-dimensional materials
Authors: Fu Qiang , Bao Xinhe
Published: October 2016

Interfaces between 2D material overlayers and solid surfaces provide confined spaces for chemical processes, which have stimulated new chemistry under a 2D cover.
Platinum(0)-mediated C–O bond activation of ethers via an SN2 mechanism
Authors: Ortuño Manuel A. , Jasim Nasarella A. , Whitwood Adrian C. , Lledós Agustí , Perutz Robin N.
Published: October 2016

DFT calculations demonstrate that Pt(0) bis(phosphine) complexes react with ArF–O–Meviaan SN2 mechanism to activate the O–CH3bond; experimental support is provided by reaction of Pt(PCy3)2with 2,3,5,6-tetrafluoro-4-allyloxypyridine to form an aryloxide salt of [Pt(η3-allyl)(PCy3)2]+.
Metal complexes containing nitrogen-heterocycle based aryloxide or arylamido derivatives as discrete catalysts for ring-opening polymerization of cyclic esters
Authors: Huang Bor-Hunn , Tsai Chen-Yen , Chen Chi-Tien , Ko Bao-Tsan
Published: October 2016

This perspective highlights some recent advances in the field of discrete N-heterocyclic aryloxide/arylamido metal complexes for ROP of lactones.
Apricot and other seed stones: amygdalin content and the potential to obtain antioxidant, angiotensin I converting enzyme inhibitor and hypocholesterolemic peptides
Authors: García M. C. , González-García E. , Vásquez-Villanueva R. , Marina M. L.
Published: October 2016

Stones from olives and Prunus genus fruits are cheap and sustainable sources of proteins and could be potential sources of bioactive peptides.
Identification of new scaffolds with anti-tumor action toward human glioblastoma cells
Authors: Ellert-Miklaszewska Aleksandra , Dallavalle Sabrina , Musso Loana , Martinet Nadine , Wojnicki Kamil , Kaminska Bozena
Published: October 2016

Compounds containing an isothiazolonaphthoquinone core and HDAC inhibitors with an indolyl-substituted biphenyl-4-yl-acrylohydroxamic acid are promising drug candidates against malignant brain tumors, glioblastomas.
Substrate co-doping modulates electronic metal–support interactions and significantly enhances single-atom catalysis
Authors: Shi J. L. , Wu J. H. , Zhao X. J. , Xue X. L. , Gao Y. F. , Guo Z. X. , Li S. F.
Published: October 2016

Transitional metal nanoparticles or atoms deposited on appropriate substrates can lead to highly economical, efficient, and selective catalysis.
Biologically active γ-lactams: synthesis and natural sources
Authors: Caruano J. , Muccioli G. G. , Robiette R.
Published: October 2016

This review surveys the different synthetic and natural sources of biologically active γ-lactam compounds.
Preparation of 3D pompon-like titanate nanotube microspheres and their adsorption properties on cationic dyes
Authors: Jiang Rong , Zan Rui , Zeng Jianyun , Wen Xiaogang
Published: October 2016

Hierarchical 3D pompon-like microspheres built with titanate nanotubes have been successfully synthesized by a simple hydrothermal method in the presence of CH3COOH and H2O2.
Preferentially grown nanostructured iron disulfide (FeS2) for removal of industrial pollutants
Authors: Kaur Gurpreet , Singh Bikramjeet , Singh Paviter , Kaur Manpreet , Buttar Karmjeet Kaur , Singh Kulwinder , Thakur Anup , Bala Rajni , Kumar Manjeet , Kumar Akshay
Published: October 2016

Preferentially grown nanostructured iron disulfide pyrite (111) was successfully synthesized using a low cost effective hydrothermal method, then employed as a photocatalyst for degradation of methylene blue and the textile dye Synazol Yellow K-HL.
Evaluation of electron or charge transfer processes between chromenylium-based fluorophores and protonated–deprotonated aniline
Authors: Xiao Jin-Wei , Zhu Wei-Jin , Sun Ru , Xu Yu-Jie , Ge Jian-Feng
Published: October 2016

PET and ICT processes in chromenylium hybrid fluorescent dyes.
Hydrothermal synthesis of well-crystallized CuO hierarchical structures and their direct application in high performance lithium-ion battery electrodes without further calcination
Authors: Wang Hequan , Liang Tangwen , Yu Xiao , Zhao Wenxia , Xu Ruimei , Wang Donghai , Liu Yong
Published: October 2016

As an energy-saving strategy, well-crystallized CuO hierarchical structures are synthesized by hydrothermal method and applied in Li-ion batteries without calcination.
New insights into Ag-doped BiVO4 microspheres as visible light photocatalysts
Authors: Xu Xuan , Du Mao , Chen Tian , Xiong Shimin , Wu Tianhui , Zhao Deqiang , Fan Zihong
Published: October 2016

This study describes the synthesis of Ag–bismuth vanadate (Ag–BiVO4) microspheres, a highly efficient visible light photocatalyst for the degradation of methylene blue, via a one-step hydrothermal method.
Covalent modification of reduced graphene oxide by chiral side-chain liquid crystalline oligomer via Diels–Alder reaction
Authors: Zhang Xiaodong , Cong Yuehua , Zhang Baoyan
Published: October 2016

RGO was dispersed in the CSLCO matrix via DA reaction, and the composites have excellent properties.
Performance and microbial communities of a batch anaerobic reactor treating liquid and high-solid sludge at thermophilic conditions
Authors: Zhang Dongling , Yuan Haiping , Yu Bao , Dai Xiaohu , Huang Xiaoting , Lou Ziyang , Zhu Nanwen
Published: October 2016

HS-AD with TS of 20% achieved similar reactor utilization efficiency as that in L-AD, and enriched hydrogenotrophic methanogensMethanoculleus.
Organic transistors based on airbrushed small molecule-insulating polymer blends with mobilities exceeding 1 cm2 V−1 s−1
Authors: Kaimakamis T. , Pitsalidis C. , Papamichail A. , Laskarakis A. , Logothetidis S.
Published: October 2016

High performance organic transistors have been realized via airbrush technique, using small molecule-insulating polymer blends.
Visible light promoted photocatalytic water oxidation: effect of fluctuating light intensity upon reaction efficiency
Authors: Walsh Dominic , Patureau Pascaline , Walton Julia , Potticary Jason , Hall Simon R. , Weller Mark T.
Published: October 2016

Repeat cyclic fluctuating intensity illumination can significantly improve reaction efficiencies of water oxidations by optimizing the photocyclic sequence and minimizing light sensitizer decomposition.
Immobilization of dengue specific IgM antibodies on magnetite nanoparticles by using facile conjugation strategies
Authors: Ortega G. A. , Zuaznabar-Gardona J. C. , Morales-Tarré O. , Reguera E.
Published: October 2016

Five strategies to conjugate IgM antibodies on magnetite nanoparticles were evaluated and the most effective used for IgM-dengue detection.
Rh(iii)-catalyzed double C–H activation of aldehyde hydrazones: a route for functionalized 1H-indazole synthesis
Authors: Xu Pan , Wang Guoqiang , Wu Zhongkai , li Shuhua , Zhu Chengjian
Published: October 2016

An unprecedented strategy for functionalized 1H-indazoles via C–C bond construction was realized by the Rh(iii)-catalyzed C–H/C–H cross coupling of aldehyde hydrazones.
Gender, law and revenge porn in Sub-Saharan Africa: a review of Malawi and Uganda
Authors: Chisala-Tempelhoff Sarai , Kirya Monica Twesiime
Published: October 2016

The spread of information and communication technologies (ICT) in Sub-Sharan Africa has provided a new arena for gender-based violence (GBV). Unfortunately, the growth of ICT has out-paced legal developments to regulate it. In this article we explore the legal responses to the phenomenon of nonconsenusal pornography—more commonly known as revenge porn—in the global south. We use case studies from Malawi and Uganda to illustrate the incidence of revenge pornography in a non-western context and to discuss the (in)adequacy of the legal regimes to deal with this new form of GBV. At the time of writing neither country has laws dealing specifically with revenge pornography, although both Malawi and Uganda have anti-pornography or anti-obscenity provisions in the law. The question that arises is whether such existing laws are adequate to combat incidences of revenge porn/nonconsensual pornography. We suggest that revenge porn, and indeed other forms of “cyber violence” against women, require specific legislation or a nuanced interpretation of existing laws to curb their incidence rates and to ensure redress for victims. This is an imperative subject and requires lawmakers to grapple with emerging issues of internet freedoms and the possible role that the law can play in regulating cyberspace in a way that protects the rights of women, freedom of expression but also the privacy rights of all. This article is published as part of a collection on gender studies.