bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RNF135, RING finger protein, promotes the proliferation of human glioblastoma cells in vivo and in vitro via the ERK pathway
Authors: Liu Yongjian , Wang Feng , Liu Yongsheng , Yao Yiqun , Lv Xiupeng , Dong Bin , Li Jun , Ren Siyang , Yao Yiwen , Xu Yinghui
Published: February 2016

Ring finger protein 135 (RNF135), located on chromosome 17q11.2, is a RING finger domain-containing E3 ubiquitin ligase that was identified as a bio-marker and therapy target of glioblastoma. In our study, we confirmed that RNF135 was up-regulated in glioblastoma tissues compared with normal brain (NB) tissues, and that RNF135 knockdown inhibited proliferation and migration and led to cell cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase in vivo. By lowering RNF135 expression, phosphorylated Erk and cell cycle protein CDK4 were down-regulated, while p27Kip1 and p21Waf1/Cip1 were up-regulated in U87 and U251 cells in vitro. In addition, using the immunofluorescence double labelling method, we found that RNF135 and P-Erk were co-localized in the cytoplasm and were highly expressed in glioblastoma samples compared with NB tissues. Moreover, the growth of U87 cell-transplanted tumours in nude mice was inhibited while transduced with Lv-shRNF135. Taken together, our findings demonstrate the biological effects of RNF135 in glioblastoma cell proliferation, migration and cell cycle, and its role in the progression of glioblastoma may be associated with the ERK signal transduction pathway.
RBM4a-regulated splicing cascade modulates the differentiation and metabolic activities of brown adipocytes
Authors: Lin Jung-Chun , Lu Yi-Han , Liu Yun-Ru , Lin Ying-Ju
Published: February 2016

RNA-binding motif protein 4a (RBM4a) reportedly reprograms splicing profiles of the insulin receptor (IR) and myocyte enhancer factor 2C (MEF2C) genes, facilitating the differentiation of brown adipocytes. Using an RNA-sequencing analysis, we first compared the gene expressing profiles between wild-type and RBM4a−/− brown adipocytes. The ablation of RBM4a led to increases in the PTBP1, PTBP2 (nPTB) and Nova1 proteins, whereas elevated RBM4a reduced the expression of PTBP1 and PTBP2 proteins in brown adipocytes through an alternative splicing-coupled nonsense-mediated decay mechanism. Subsequently, RBM4a indirectly shortened the half-life of the Nova1 transcript which was comparatively stable in the presence of PTBP2. RBM4a diminished the influence of PTBP2 in adipogenic development by reprogramming the splicing profiles of the FGFR2 and PKM genes. These results constitute a mechanistic understanding of the RBM4a-modulated splicing cascade during the brown adipogenesis.
Telomere length, genetic variants and risk of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck in Southeast Chinese
Authors: Gu Yayun , Yu Chengxiao , Miao Limin , Wang Lihua , Xu Chongquan , Xue Wenjie , Du Jiangbo , Yuan Hua , Dai Juncheng , Jin Guangfu , Hu Zhibin , Ma Hongxia , Shen Hongbing
Published: February 2016

Telomere dysfunction participates in malignant transformation and tumorigenesis. Previous studies have explored the associations between telomere length (TL) and cancer susceptibility; however, the findings are inconclusive. The associations between genetic variants and TL have been verified by quite a few genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Yet, to date, there was no published study on the relationship between TL, related genetic variants and susceptibility to squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) in Chinese. Hence, we detected relative telomere length (RTL) by using quantitative PCR and genotyped seven selected single nucleotide polymorphisms by TaqMan allelic discrimination assay in 510 SCCHN cases and 913 controls in southeast Chinese. The results showed that RTL was significantly associated with SCCHN risk [(adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 1.19, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.08–1.32, P = 0.001]. Furthermore, among seven selected SNPs, only G allele of rs2736100 related to RTL in Caucasians was significantly associated with both the decreased RTL (P = 0.002) and the increased susceptibility to SCCHN in Chinese (additive model: adjusted OR = 1.17, 95%CI = 1.00–1.38, P = 0.049). These findings provide evidence that shortened TL is a risk factor for SCCHN, and genetic variants can contribute to both TL and the susceptibility to SCCHN in southeast Chinese population.
Comparative phylogenetic analysis and transcriptional profiling of MADS-box gene family identified DAM and FLC-like genes in apple (Malusx domestica)
Authors: Kumar Gulshan , Arya Preeti , Gupta Khushboo , Randhawa Vinay , Acharya Vishal , Singh Anil Kumar
Published: February 2016

The MADS-box transcription factors play essential roles in various processes of plant growth and development. In the present study, phylogenetic analysis of 142 apple MADS-box proteins with that of other dicotyledonous species identified six putative Dormancy-Associated MADS-box (DAM) and four putative Flowering Locus C-like (FLC-like) proteins. In order to study the expression of apple MADS-box genes, RNA-seq analysis of 3 apical and 5 spur bud stages during dormancy, 6 flower stages and 7 fruit development stages was performed. The dramatic reduction in expression of two MdDAMs, MdMADS063 and MdMADS125 and two MdFLC-like genes, MdMADS135 and MdMADS136 during dormancy release suggests their role as flowering-repressors in apple. Apple orthologs of Arabidopsis genes, FLOWERING LOCUS T, FRIGIDA, SUPPRESSOR OF OVEREXPRESSION OF CONSTANS 1 and LEAFY exhibit similar expression patterns as reported in Arabidopsis, suggesting functional conservation in floral signal integration and meristem determination pathways. Gene ontology enrichment analysis of predicted targets of DAM revealed their involvement in regulation of reproductive processes and meristematic activities, indicating functional conservation of SVP orthologs (DAM) in apple. This study provides valuable insights into the functions of MADS-box proteins during apple phenology, which may help in devising strategies to improve important traits in apple.
Internal (His)6-tagging delivers a fully functional hetero-oligomeric class II chaperonin in high yield
Authors: Paul Danielle M. , Beuron Fabienne , Sessions Richard B. , Brancaccio Andrea , Bigotti Maria Giulia
Published: February 2016

Group II chaperonins are ATP-ases indispensable for the folding of many proteins that play a crucial role in Archaea and Eukarya. They display a conserved two-ringed assembly enclosing an internal chamber where newly translated or misfolded polypeptides can fold to their native structure. They are mainly hexadecamers, with each eight-membered ring composed of one or two (in Archaea) or eight (in Eukarya) different subunits. A major recurring problem within group II chaperonin research, especially with the hetero-oligomeric forms, is to establish an efficient recombinant system for the expression of large amounts of wild-type as well as mutated variants. Herein we show how we can produce, in E. coli cells, unprecedented amounts of correctly assembled and active αβ-thermosome, the class II chaperonin from Thermoplasma acidophilum, by introducing a (His)6-tag within a loop in the α subunit of the complex. The specific location was identified via a rational approach and proved not to disturb the structure of the chaperonin, as demonstrated by size-exclusion chromatography, native gel electrophoresis and electron microscopy. Likewise, the tagged protein showed an ATP-ase activity and an ability to refold substrates identical to the wild type. This tagging strategy might be employed for the overexpression of other recombinant chaperonins.
Redifferentiation of expanded human islet β cells by inhibition of ARX
Authors: Friedman-Mazursky Orr , Elkon Ran , Efrat Shimon
Published: February 2016

Ex-vivo expansion of adult human islet β cells has been evaluated for generation of abundant insulin-producing cells for transplantation; however, lineage-tracing has demonstrated that this process results in β-cell dedifferentiation. Redifferentiation of β-cell-derived (BCD) cells can be achieved using a combination of soluble factors termed Redifferentiation Cocktail (RC); however, this treatment leads to redifferentiation of only a fraction of BCD cells. This study aimed at improving redifferentiation efficiency by affecting the balance of islet progenitor-cell transcription factors activated by RC treatment. Specifically, RC treatment induces the transcription factors PAX4 and ARX, which play key roles in directing pancreas endocrine progenitor cells into the β/δ or α/PP developmental pathways, respectively. Misactivation of ARX in RC-treated BCD cells may inhibit their redifferentiation into β cells. Blocking ARX expression by shRNA elevated insulin mRNA levels 12.8-fold and more than doubled the number of insulin-positive BCD cells. ARX inhibition in expanded α-cell-derived cells treated with RC did not cause their transdifferentiation into insulin-producing cells. The combination of RC and ARX shRNA treatment may facilitate the generation of abundant insulin-producing cells for transplantation into patients with type 1 diabetes.
Cell type-specific properties and environment shape tissue specificity of cancer genes
Authors: Schaefer Martin H. , Serrano Luis
Published: February 2016

One of the biggest mysteries in cancer research remains why mutations in certain genes cause cancer only at specific sites in the human body. The poor correlation between the expression level of a cancer gene and the tissues in which it causes malignant transformations raises the question of which factors determine the tissue-specific effects of a mutation. Here, we explore why some cancer genes are associated only with few different cancer types (i.e., are specific), while others are found mutated in a large number of different types of cancer (i.e., are general). We do so by contrasting cellular functions of specific-cancer genes with those of general ones to identify properties that determine where in the body a gene mutation is causing malignant transformations. We identified different groups of cancer genes that did not behave as expected (i.e., DNA repair genes being tissue specific, immune response genes showing a bimodal specificity function or strong association of generally expressed genes to particular cancers). Analysis of these three groups demonstrates the importance of environmental impact for understanding why certain cancer genes are only involved in the development of some cancer types but are rarely found mutated in other types of cancer.
Development and application of a novel genome-wide SNP array reveals domestication history in soybean
Authors: Wang Jiao , Chu Shanshan , Zhang Huairen , Zhu Ying , Cheng Hao , Yu Deyue
Published: February 2016

Domestication of soybeans occurred under the intense human-directed selections aimed at developing high-yielding lines. Tracing the domestication history and identifying the genes underlying soybean domestication require further exploration. Here, we developed a high-throughput NJAU 355 K SoySNP array and used this array to study the genetic variation patterns in 367 soybean accessions, including 105 wild soybeans and 262 cultivated soybeans. The population genetic analysis suggests that cultivated soybeans have tended to originate from northern and central China, from where they spread to other regions, accompanied with a gradual increase in seed weight. Genome-wide scanning for evidence of artificial selection revealed signs of selective sweeps involving genes controlling domestication-related agronomic traits including seed weight. To further identify genomic regions related to seed weight, a genome-wide association study (GWAS) was conducted across multiple environments in wild and cultivated soybeans. As a result, a strong linkage disequilibrium region on chromosome 20 was found to be significantly correlated with seed weight in cultivated soybeans. Collectively, these findings should provide an important basis for genomic-enabled breeding and advance the study of functional genomics in soybean.
Multiple scattering induced negative refraction of matter waves
Authors: Pinsker Florian
Published: February 2016

Starting from fundamental multiple scattering theory it is shown that negative refraction indices are feasible for matter waves passing a well-defined ensemble of scatterers. A simple approach to this topic is presented and explicit examples for systems of scatterers in 1D and 3D are stated that imply negative refraction for a generic incoming quantum wave packet. Essential features of the effective scattering field, densities and frequency spectrum of scatterers are considered. Additionally it is shown that negative refraction indices allow perfect transmission of the wave passing the ensemble of scatterers. Finally the concept of the superlens is discussed, since it is based on negative refraction and can be extended to matter waves utilizing the observations presented in this paper which thus paves the way to ‘untouchable’ quantum systems in analogy to cloaking devices for electromagnetic waves.
Different cucumber CsYUC genes regulate response to abiotic stresses and flower development
Authors: Yan Shuangshuang , Che Gen , Ding Lian , Chen Zijing , Liu Xiaofeng , Wang Hongyin , Zhao Wensheng , Ning Kang , Zhao Jianyu , Tesfamichael Kiflom , Wang Qian , Zhang Xiaolan
Published: February 2016

The phytohormone auxin is essential for plant growth and development and YUCCA (YUC) proteins catalyze a rate-limiting step for endogenous auxin biosynthesis. Despite YUC family genes have been isolated from several species, systematic expression analyses of YUCs in response to abiotic stress are lacking and little is known about the function of YUC homologs in agricultural crops. Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) is a world cultivated vegetable crop with great economical and nutritional value. In this study, we isolated 10 YUC family genes (CsYUCs) from cucumber and explored their expression pattern under four types of stress treatments. Our data showed that CsYUC8 and CsYUC9 were specifically upregulated to elevate the auxin level under high temperature. CsYUC10b was dramatically increased but CsYUC4 was repressed in response to low temperature. CsYUC10a and CsYUC11 act against the upregulation of CsYUC10b under salinity stress, suggesting that distinct YUC members participate in different stress response and may even antagonize each other to maintain the proper auxin levels in cucumber. Further, CsYUC11 was specifically expressed in the male flower in cucumber and enhanced tolerance to salinity stress and regulated pedicel and stamen development through auxin biosynthesis in Arabidopsis.
Light-inducible genetic engineering and control of non-homologous end-joining in industrial eukaryotic microorganisms: LML 3.0 and OFN 1.0
Authors: Zhang Lei , Zhao Xihua , Zhang Guoxiu , Zhang Jiajia , Wang Xuedong , Zhang Suping , Wang Wei , Wei Dongzhi
Published: February 2016

Filamentous fungi play important roles in the production of plant cell-wall degrading enzymes. In recent years, homologous recombinant technologies have contributed significantly to improved enzymes production and system design of genetically manipulated strains. When introducing multiple gene deletions, we need a robust and convenient way to control selectable marker genes, especially when only a limited number of markers are available in filamentous fungi. Integration after transformation is predominantly nonhomologous in most fungi other than yeast. Fungal strains deficient in the non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ) pathway have limitations associated with gene function analyses despite they are excellent recipient strains for gene targets. We describe strategies and methods to address these challenges above and leverage the power of resilient NHEJ deficiency strains. We have established a foolproof light-inducible platform for one-step unmarked genetic modification in industrial eukaryotic microorganisms designated as ‘LML 3.0’ and an on-off control protocol of NHEJ pathway called ‘OFN 1.0’, using a synthetic light-switchable transactivation to control Cre recombinase-based excision and inversion. The methods provide a one-step strategy to sequentially modify genes without introducing selectable markers and NHEJ-deficiency. The strategies can be used to manipulate many biological processes in a wide range of eukaryotic cells.
Integrated analysis of the involvement of nitric oxide synthesis in mitochondrial proliferation, mitochondrial deficiency and apoptosis in skeletal muscle fibres
Authors: Rodrigues Gabriela Silva , Godinho Rosely Oliveira , Kiyomoto Beatriz Hitomi , Gamba Juliana , Oliveira Acary Souza Bulle , Schmidt Beny , Tengan Célia Harumi
Published: February 2016

Nitric oxide (NO) is an important signaling messenger involved in different mitochondrial processes but only few studies explored the participation of NO in mitochondrial abnormalities found in patients with genetic mitochondrial deficiencies. In this study we verified whether NO synthase (NOS) activity was altered in different types of mitochondrial abnormalities and whether changes in mitochondrial function and NOS activity could be associated with the induction of apoptosis. We performed a quantitative and integrated analysis of NOS activity in individual muscle fibres of patients with mitochondrial diseases, considering mitochondrial function (cytochrome-c-oxidase activity), mitochondrial content, mitochondrial DNA mutation and presence of apoptotic nuclei. Our results indicated that sarcolemmal NOS activity was increased in muscle fibres with mitochondrial proliferation, supporting the relevance of neuronal NOS in the mitochondrial biogenesis process. Sarcoplasmic NOS activity was reduced in cytochrome-c-oxidase deficient fibres, probably as a consequence of the involvement of NO in the regulation of the respiratory chain. Alterations in NOS activity or mitochondrial abnormalities were not predisposing factors to apoptotic nuclei. Taken together, our results show that NO can be considered a potential molecular target for strategies to increase mitochondrial content and indicate that this approach may not be associated with increased apoptotic events.
A promising structure for fabricating high strength and high electrical conductivity copper alloys
Authors: Li Rengeng , Kang Huijun , Chen Zongning , Fan Guohua , Zou Cunlei , Wang Wei , Zhang Shaojian , Lu Yiping , Jie Jinchuan , Cao Zhiqiang , Li Tingju , Wang Tongmin
Published: February 2016

To address the trade-off between strength and electrical conductivity, we propose a strategy: introducing precipitated particles into a structure composed of deformation twins. A Cu-0.3%Zr alloy was designed to verify our strategy. Zirconium was dissolved into a copper matrix by solution treatment prior to cryorolling and precipitated in the form of Cu5Zr from copper matrix via a subsequent aging treatment. The microstructure evolutions of the processed samples were investigated by transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis, and the mechanical and physical behaviours were evaluated through tensile and electrical conductivity tests. The results demonstrated that superior tensile strength (602.04 MPa) and electrical conductivity (81.4% IACS) was achieved. This strategy provides a new route for balancing the strength and electrical conductivity of copper alloys, which can be developed for large-scale industrial application.
Silver Ink Formulations for Sinter-free Printing of Conductive Films
Authors: Black Kate , Singh Jetinder , Mehta Danielle , Sung Sarah , Sutcliffe Christopher. J. , Chalker Paul. R.
Published: February 2016

Inkjet printing offers an attractive method for the deposition of metal interconnects in electronic systems and enables a low-cost, environmentally friendly route to manufacture. However, virtually all current metal inkjet processes require post-deposition sintering treatments to achieve the optimum electrical conductivity, because the growth mechanism involves coalescence of discrete nanoparticles. A manufacturing process that reduces the number of steps by directly printing silver, removing the need to sinter the printed metal, would be highly advantageous. Here we describe a, sinter-free process that results in the direct printing of crystalline silver. This process exploits the chemistries developed for Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD), to form the basis of a new ink formulation, which we term; Reactive Organometallic inks (ROM). These ROM ink formulations are capable of depositing low temperature, high conductivity metal films, without the need for subsequent sintering treatments. To reduce the temperature for direct formation of metallic Ag, we have added an alcohol as a catalytic reducing agent to dissociate the organometallic component. Silver films printed from our novel ROM ink, on a glass substrate at 120 °C, are electrically conductive with a typical resistivity as low as 39.2% that of bulk silver, without the need for sintering.
Berberine prevents progression from hepatic steatosis to steatohepatitis and fibrosis by reducing endoplasmic reticulum stress
Authors: Zhang Zhiguo , Li Bo , Meng Xiangjian , Yao Shuangshuang , Jin Lina , Yang Jian , Wang Jiqiu , Zhang Huizhi , Zhang Zhijian , Cai Dongsheng , Zhang Yifei , Ning Guang
Published: February 2016

The histological spectrum of nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases (NAFLD) ranges from hepatic steatosis to steatohepatitis and fibrosis. Berberine (BBR) is known for its therapeutic effect on obesity, hyperglycaemia and dyslipidaemia; however, its effect on NAFLD has yet to be thoroughly explored. Db/db mice and methionine-choline-deficient diet-fed mice were administered BBR via gavage. We found that BBR-treated mice were more resistant to steatosis in the liver than vehicle-treated mice and that BBR significantly reduced hepatic inflammation, fibrosis and lipid peroxides. The beneficial effect of BBR was associated with suppressing endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. Additionally, BBR decreased the free fatty acid-induced lipid accumulation and tunicamycin-induced ER stress in primary hepatocytes and hepatocyte cell lines. We demonstrated that BBR exhibited chaperone activity, reduced protein aggregation in vitro and alleviated tunicamycin-induced triglyceride and collagen deposition in vivo. Finally, we showed that BBR could reverse ER stress-activated lipogenesis through the ATF6/SREBP-1c pathway in vitro. These results indicated that BBR may be a new therapeutic strategy against hepatic steatosis and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis.
Host Stress Drives Salmonella Recrudescence
Authors: Verbrugghe Elin , Dhaenens Maarten , Leyman Bregje , Boyen Filip , Shearer Neil , Van Parys Alexander , Haesendonck Roel , Bert Wim , Favoreel Herman , Deforce Dieter , Thompson Arthur , Haesebrouck Freddy , Pasmans Frank
Published: February 2016

Host stress is well known to result in flare-ups of many bacterial, viral and parasitic infections. The mechanism by which host stress is exploited to increase pathogen loads, is poorly understood. Here we show that Salmonella enterica subspecies enterica serovar Typhimurium employs a dedicated mechanism, driven by the scsA gene, to respond to the host stress hormone cortisol. Through this mechanism, cortisol increases Salmonella proliferation inside macrophages, resulting in increased intestinal infection loads in DBA/2J mice. ScsA directs overall Salmonella virulence gene expression under conditions that mimic the intramacrophagic environment of Salmonella, and stimulates the host cytoskeletal alterations that are required for increased Salmonella proliferation inside cortisol exposed macrophages. We thus provide evidence that in a stressed host, the complex interplay between a pathogen and its host endocrine and innate immune system increases intestinal pathogen loads to facilitate pathogen dispersal.
Neuroprotection by Polynitrogen Manganese Complexes: Regulation of Reactive Oxygen Species-Related Pathways
Authors: Chen Chunxia , Cao Jing , Ma Xiaoyan , Wang Xiaobo , Chen Qiuyun , Yan Shihai , Zhao Ningwei , Geng Zhirong , Wang Zhilin
Published: February 2016

Cell death in the central nervous system causes neurologic diseases, in which reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a critical role by either inducing cellular oxidative stress or by increasing the cell tolerance against insult. Neurologic diseases may potentially be treated by regulating ROS levels in a certain range with small molecules. We studied preconditioning with two polynitrogen manganese complexes (1and2) to regulate intracellular ROS levels in the protection of both the differentiated rat pheochromocytoma cell line (PC12 cells) and neurons against H2O2-induced apoptosis. Pre-treatment with the two complexes attenuated the cell apoptosis caused by H2O2. And the ROS-related neuroprotective mechanisms were explored. Both complexes activate the hypoxia inducible factor-related pathways and increase the cell adaptation to oxidative stress. Pre-treatment with complex1eliminated intracellular ROS, which also activated antioxidase system, while short-term incubation of complex2, generated low levels of ROS leading to cell survival.
Leaf unfolding of Tibetan alpine meadows captures the arrival of monsoon rainfall
Authors: Li Ruicheng , Luo Tianxiang , Mölg Thomas , Zhao Jingxue , Li Xiang , Cui Xiaoyong , Du Mingyuan , Tang Yanhong
Published: February 2016

The alpine meadow on the Tibetan Plateau is the highest and largest pasture in the world, and its formation and distribution are mainly controlled by Indian summer monsoon effects. However, little is known about how monsoon-related cues may trigger spring phenology of the vast alpine vegetation. Based on the 7-year observations with fenced and transplanted experiments across lower to upper limits of Kobresia meadows in the central plateau (4400–5200 m), we found that leaf unfolding dates of dominant sedge and grass species synchronized with monsoon onset, regardless of air temperature. We also found similar patterns in a 22-year data set from the northeast plateau. In the monsoon-related cues for leaf unfolding, the arrival of monsoon rainfall is crucial, while seasonal air temperatures are already continuously above 0 °C. In contrast, the early-emerging cushion species generally leafed out earlier in warmer years regardless of precipitation. Our data provide evidence that leaf unfolding of dominant species in the alpine meadows senses the arrival of monsoon-season rainfall. These findings also provide a basis for interpreting the spatially variable greening responses to warming detected in the world’s highest pasture, and suggest a phenological strategy for avoiding damages of pre-monsoon drought and frost to alpine plants.
Changing expression profiles of lncRNAs, mRNAs, circRNAs and miRNAs during osteoclastogenesis
Authors: Dou Ce , Cao Zhen , Yang Bo , Ding Ning , Hou Tianyong , Luo Fei , Kang Fei , Li Jianmei , Yang Xiaochao , Jiang Hong , Xiang Junyu , Quan Hongyu , Xu Jianzhong , Dong Shiwu
Published: February 2016

Bone is a dynamic organ continuously undergoing shaping, repairing and remodeling. The homeostasis of bone is maintained by the balance between osteoblastic bone formation and osteoclastic bone resorption. Osteoclasts (OCs) are specialized multinucleated cells derived from hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) or monocytes/macrophage progenitor cells. There are different stages during osteoclastogenesis, and one of the most important steps to form functional osteoclasts is realized by cell-cell fusion. In our study, microarray was performed to detect the expression profiles of lncRNA, mRNA, circRNA and miRNA at different stages during osteoclastogenesis of RAW264.7 cells. Often changed RNAs were selected and clustered among the four groups with Venn analysis. The results revealed that expressions of 518 lncRNAs, 207 mRNAs, 24 circRNAs and 37 miRNAs were often altered at each stage during OC differentiation. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) biological pathway analysis were performed to predict the functions of differentially expressed lncRNAs and co-expressed potential targeting genes. Co-expression networks of lncRNA-mRNA and circRNA-miRNA were constructed based on the correlation analysis between the differentially expressed RNAs. The present study provided a systematic perspective on the potential function of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) during osteoclastogenesis.
Chemical insights into the roles of nanowire cores on the growth and supercapacitor performances of Ni-Co-O/Ni(OH)2 core/shell electrodes
Authors: Yin Xuesong , Tang Chunhua , Zhang Liuyang , Yu Zhi Gen , Gong Hao
Published: February 2016

Nanostructured core/shell electrodes have been experimentally demonstrated promising for high-performance electrochemical energy storage devices. However, chemical insights into the significant roles of nanowire cores on the growth of shells and their supercapacitor behaviors still remain as a research shortfall. In this work, by substituting 1/3 cobalt in the Co3O4 nanowire core with nickel, a 61% enhancement of the specific mass-loading of the Ni(OH)2 shell, a tremendous 93% increase of the volumetric capacitance and a superior cyclability were achieved in a novel NiCo2O4/Ni(OH)2 core/shell electrode in contrast to a Co3O4/Ni(OH)2 one. A comparative study suggested that not only the growth of Ni(OH)2 shells but also the contribution of cores were attributed to the overall performances. Importantly, their chemical origins were revealed through a theoretical simulation of the core/shell interfacial energy changes. Besides, asymmetric supercapacitor devices and applications were also explored. The scientific clues and practical potentials obtained in this work are helpful for the design and analysis of alternative core/shell electrode materials.
Obsessive–compulsive symptoms in a large population-based twin-family sample are predicted by clinically based polygenic scores and by genome-wide SNPs
Authors: den Braber A , Zilhão N R , Fedko I O , Hottenga J-J , Pool R , Smit D J A , Cath D C , Boomsma D I
Published: February 2016

Variation in obsessive–compulsive symptoms (OCS) has a heritable basis, with genetic association studies starting to yield the first suggestive findings. We contribute to insights into the genetic basis of OCS by performing an extensive series of genetic analyses in a homogeneous, population-based sample from the Netherlands. First, phenotypic and genetic longitudinal correlations over a 6-year period were estimated by modeling OCS data from twins and siblings. Second, polygenic risk scores (PRS) for 6931 subjects with genotype and OCS data were calculated based on meta-analysis results from IOCDF-GC, to investigate their predictive value. Third, the contribution of measured single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) to the heritability was estimated using random-effects modeling. Last, we performed an exploratory genome-wide association study (GWAS) of OCS, testing for SNP- and for gene-based associations. Stability in OCS (test–retest correlation 0.63) was mainly explained by genetic stability. The PRS based on clinical samples predicted OCS in our population-based twin-family sample. SNP-based heritability was estimated at 14%. GWAS revealed one SNP (rs8100480), located within the MEF2BNB gene, associated with OCS (P=2.56 × 10−8). Additional gene-based testing resulted in four significantly associated genes, which are located in the same chromosomal region on chromosome 19p13.11: MEF2BNB, RFXANK, MEF2BNB-MEF2B and MEF2B. Thus, common genetic variants explained a significant proportion of OCS trait variation. Genes significantly associated with OCS are expressed in the brain and involved in development and control of immune system functions (RFXANK) and regulation of gene expression of muscle-specific genes (MEF2BNB). MEF2BNB also showed a suggestive association with OCD in an independent case–control study, suggesting a role for this gene in the development of OCS.
Medical Applications of Hyperpolarized and Inert Gases in MR Imaging and NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Couch Marcus J. , Fox Matthew S. , Blasiak Barbara , Ouriadov Alexei V. , Dowhos Krista M. , Tomanek Boguslaw , Albert Mitchell S.
Published: February 2016

MRI is a potentially ideal imaging modality for non-invasive, non-ionizing, and longitudinal assessment of disease. One notable disadvantage of MRI is its low sensitivity compared to other imaging modalities, and this drawback can be rectified with hyperpolarized (HP) agents that have been developed over the past 20 years. HP agents have the potential to vastly improve MRI sensitivity for the diagnosis and management of various diseases. The polarization of NMR-sensitive nuclei other than 1H (e.g. 3He, 129Xe) can be enhanced by a factor of up to 100 000 times above thermal equilibrium levels, thus enabling direct detection of the HP agent at low concentration and with no background signal. In this chapter, a number of HP media applications in MR imaging is discussed, including HP 3He and 129Xe lung imaging, HP 129Xe brain imaging, and HP 129Xe biosensors. Inert fluorinated gas MRI, which is a new lung imaging technique that does not require hyperpolarization, is also briefly discussed. These techniques will likely be important future directions for the HP gas lung imaging community.
Carbon quantum dots directly generated from electrochemical oxidation of graphite electrodes in alkaline alcohols and the applications for specific ferric ion detection and cell imaging
Authors: Liu Mengli , Xu Yuanhong , Niu Fushuang , Gooding J. Justin , Liu Jingquan
Published: February 2016

Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) are attracting tremendous interest owing to their low toxicity, water dispersibility, biocompatibility, optical properties and wide applicability.
Exploring the chemical mechanism of thermal processing of herbal materials by temperature-resolved infrared spectroscopy and two-dimensional correlation analysis
Authors: Chen Jian-bo , Zhou Qun , Sun Su-qin
Published: February 2016

Temperature-resolved infrared spectroscopy and two-dimensional correlation analysis are useful tools to reveal the mechanism of the thermal processing of herbal materials.
Janus gold nanoparticles obtained via spontaneous binary polymer shell segregation
Authors: Percebom Ana M. , Giner-Casares Juan J. , Claes Nathalie , Bals Sara , Loh Watson , Liz-Marzán Luis M.
Published: February 2016

The spontaneous formation of a Janus polymer shell is clearly demonstrated by electron tomography and NOESY-NMR.
Polaronic effects at finite temperatures in the B850 ring of the LH2 complex
Authors: Chorošajev Vladimir , Rancova Olga , Abramavicius Darius
Published: February 2016

Energy transfer and relaxation dynamics in the B850 ring of LH2 molecular aggregates are described, taking into account the polaronic effects, by a stochastic time-dependent variational approach.
Incorrect DFT-GGA predictions of the stability of non-stoichiometric/polar dielectric surfaces: the case of Cu2O(111)
Authors: Nilius Niklas , Fedderwitz Hanna , Groß Boris , Noguera Claudine , Goniakowski Jacek
Published: February 2016

GGA overestimates the stability of polar and/or non-stoichiometric surfaces.
Stabilization of DNA liquid crystals on doping with gold nanorods
Authors: Brach Katarzyna , Matczyszyn Katarzyna , Olesiak-Banska Joanna , Gordel Marta , Samoc Marek
Published: February 2016

We report on the impact of doping with gold nanorods (NRs) on the formation and stability of DNA liquid crystals (LCs).
Charging and aggregation of latex particles in aqueous solutions of ionic liquids: towards an extended Hofmeister series
Authors: Oncsik Tamas , Desert Anthony , Trefalt Gregor , Borkovec Michal , Szilagyi Istvan
Published: February 2016

Ion specific effects govern the aggregation of latex particles in aqueous solutions of ionic liquids.
An insight to the role of Cr in the process of intrinsic point defects in α-Al2O3
Authors: Xiang Xin , Zhang Guikai , Yang Feilong , Peng Xuexing , Tang Tao , Shi Yan , Wang Xiaolin
Published: February 2016

Cr has significant influence on the formation, charge state, relative stability and equilibrium configuration of isolated intrinsic point defects in α-Al2O3, resulting in the variation of defect process in α-Al2O3.
Synthesis, characterization, thermal properties and antiproliferative potential of copper(ii) 4′-phenyl-terpyridine compounds
Authors: Ma Zhen , Zhang Bian , Guedes da Silva M. Fátima C. , Silva Joana , Mendo Ana Soraia , Baptista Pedro Viana , Fernandes Alexandra R. , Pombeiro Armando J. L.
Published: February 2016

Mononuclear 4,4′-phenyl-terpyridine copper(ii) complexes withp-toluenesulfonate, benzoate,o-,m- andp-hydroxybenzoate were synthesized and their cytotoxic properties were studied.
Highly efficient electrochemiluminescence based on pyrazolecarboxylic metal organic framework
Authors: Feng Chao , Ma Yu-Heng , Zhang Duo , Li Xue-Jing , Zhao Hong
Published: February 2016

A series of transition metal complexes with the ligands 3-pyrazoledicarboxylic acid (H2L1) and ethyl 1-(2-ethoxy-2-oxoethyl)-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxylate (epzc) have been synthesized.
Understanding the contribution of hydroxyl to the energy band of a semiconductor: Bi2O(OH)2SO4vs. Bi6S2O15
Authors: Xu Juan , Teng Fei , Zhao Yunxuan , Kan Yandong , Yang Liming , Yang Yang , Yao Wenqing , Zhu Yongfa
Published: February 2016

The energy band difference between Bi6S2O15 and Bi2O(OH)2SO4 is mainly attributed to hydroxyl.
The main progress over the past decade and future outlook on high-nuclear transition-metal substituted polyoxotungstates: from synthetic strategies, structural features to functional properties
Authors: Ma Xing , Li Hailou , Chen Lijuan , Zhao Junwei
Published: February 2016

In this article, we discuss the synthetic methodologies, structural diversities and relevant properties of the high-nuclear TMSPTs reported in the past decade.
Universal energy level tailoring of self-organized hole extraction layers in organic solar cells and organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite solar cells
Authors: Lim Kyung-Geun , Ahn Soyeong , Kim Young-Hoon , Qi Yabing , Lee Tae-Woo
Published: February 2016

Tailoring the interface energetics between a polymeric hole extraction layer (HEL) and a photoactive layer (PAL) in organic photovoltaics (OPVs) and organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite solar cells (PrSCs) is very important to maximize open circuit voltage (Voc), power conversion efficiency (PCE), and device lifetime.
Supplementation of xylitol-containing chewing gum with probiotics: a double blind, randomised pilot study focusing on saliva flow and saliva properties
Authors: Gueimonde Laura , Vesterlund Satu , García-Pola María J. , Gueimonde Miguel , Söderling Eva , Salminen Seppo
Published: February 2016

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of daily chewing, for 12 weeks, of 2 different probiotic gums compared with placebo on saliva flow rate, saliva IgA levels and saliva pH.
C–H⋯O (ether) hydrogen bonding along the (110) direction in polyglycolic acid studied by infrared spectroscopy, wide-angle X-ray diffraction, quantum chemical calculations and natural bond orbital calculations
Authors: Sato Harumi , Miyada Mai , Yamamoto Shigeki , Raghunatha Reddy Kummetha , Ozaki Yukihiro
Published: February 2016

Polyglycolic acid (PGA), a biodegradable polyester with a simple molecular structure, shows an abnormally high melting point of 220 °C which is the highest among biopolyesters.
The energy consumption and pellets’ characteristics in the co-pelletization of oil cake and sawdust
Authors: Huang Z. L. , Li H. , Yuan X. Z. , Lin L. , Cao L. , Xiao Z. H. , Jiang L. B. , Li C. Z.
Published: February 2016

Improvement of the co-pelletization of biomass (cedarwood and camphorwood) and oil cake was carried out in the present work.
Segmental dynamics, morphology and thermomechanical properties of electrospun poly(ε-caprolactone) nanofibers in the presence of an interacting filler
Authors: Elias Eldho , Chandran C Sarath , Chandran Nithin , Souza Fernando G. , Thomas Sabu
Published: February 2016

The effect of addition of an interacting nanofiller (Cloisite 10A) on the segmental dynamics, morphology and thermal stability of poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) is subjected to detailed investigation.
Synthesis and self-assembly of luminescent hexacatenar molecules incorporating a 4,7-diphenyl-2,1,3-benzothiadiazole core
Authors: Huang Danxiang , Prehm Marko , Gao Hongfei , Cheng Xiaohong , Liu Yongsong , Tschierske Carsten
Published: February 2016

A luminescent hexacatenar molecule forms an oblique columnar liquid crystal, gels in various organic solvents, and has binding selectivity to Li+ in DMSO–CH2Cl2 solution.
A facile synthesis of Fe3O4 nanoparticles/graphene for high-performance lithium/sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Fu Yanqing , Wei Qiliang , Wang Xianyou , Zhang Gaixia , Shu Hongbo , Yang Xiukang , Tavares Ana C. , Sun Shuhui
Published: February 2016

Diamond-like Fe3O4 nanoparticle/graphene composites prepared by a facile and simple co-precipitation method exhibit outstanding electrochemical properties for LIBs/SIBs.
Influence of silica nanoparticles on mass transfer in a membrane-based micro-contactor
Authors: Ashrafmansouri Seyedeh-Saba , Willersinn Stefan , Esfahany Mohsen Nasr , Bart Hans-Jörg
Published: February 2016

Experiments were performed in a membrane based micro-contactor The results showed that nanoparticles are more effective on mass transfer at lower flow rates.
Formaldehyde sensing mechanism of SnO2 nanowires grown on-chip by sputtering techniques
Authors: Castro-Hurtado I. , Gonzalez-Chávarri J. , Morandi S. , Samà J. , Romano-Rodríguez A. , Castaño E. , Mandayo G. G.
Published: February 2016

High sensitive formaldehyde sensors based on SnO2 nanowires have been grown on-chip by thermal oxidation of sputtered thin films.
Impact of the in vitro gastrointestinal passage of biopolymer-based nanoparticles on insulin absorption
Authors: Lopes Marlene , Derenne Amelie , Pereira Carla , Veiga Francisco , Seiça Raquel , Sarmento Bruno , Ribeiro António
Published: February 2016

Behavior of insulin-loaded biopolymer-based nanoparticles upon passage through the gastrointestinal tract. Intestinal pH triggered insulin release from nanoparticles, allowing its permeability through cell-based engineered intestinal models.
Anti-choline esterase activity of ceramides from the Red Sea marine sponge Mycale euplectellioides
Authors: Abdelhameed Reda , Elgawish Mohamed Saleh , Mira Amira , Ibrahim Amany K. , Ahmed Safwat A. , Shimizu Kuniyoshi , Yamada Koji
Published: February 2016

New ceramides were isolated, and structurally elucidated, from the marine spongeMycale euplectellioides. The isolated compounds showed moderate anti-choline esterase activityin vitroand tight binding to AChE as confirmed through a docking study.
Targeting the colchicine site in tubulin through cyclohexanedione derivatives
Authors: Canela María-Dolores , Bueno Oskía , Noppen Sam , Sáez Calvo Gonzalo , Estévez Gallego Juan , Díaz J. F. , Camarasa María-José , Liekens Sandra , Pérez-Pérez María-Jesús , Priego Eva-María
Published: February 2016

Cyclohexanedione derivatives, a new family of colchicine-site binders, have been further explored with the aid of docking studies, resulting in compounds with improved solubility andKavalue for tubulin.
Biosorption of Zn2+, Ni2+and Co2+from water samples onto Yarrowia lipolytica ISF7 using a response surface methodology, and analyzed by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES)
Authors: Asfaram Arash , Ghaedi Mehrorang , Ghezelbash Gholam Reza
Published: February 2016

A response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to interpret biosorption efficiency.
Dilatational rheology studies on a semicrystalline ferroelectric copolymer at the air–water interface
Authors: Kumar Chandan , Viswanath P.
Published: February 2016

Dilatational rheology of Langmuir film of semicrystalline copolymer studied using oscillatory barrier technique show nonlinear behaviour. Evidence for low temperature phase transition, strain hardening and cross over behaviour with frequency is seen.
Fabrication and characterization of ultra light SiC whiskers decorated by RuO2 nanoparticles as hybrid supercapacitors
Authors: Chen Junhong , Zhang Yujie , Hou Xinmei , Su Lei , Fan Huili , Chou Kuo-Chih
Published: February 2016

Ultra light SiC whiskers decorated by RuO2 nanoparticles fabricated combining carbon thermal reduction and a hydrothermal route were investigated as novel hybrid supercapacitors with improved performance.
Insight into the origin of photoreactivity of various well-defined Bi2WO6 crystals: exposed heterojunction-like surface and oxygen defects
Authors: Ma Yongchao , Liu Qingzhi , Wang Qi , Qu Dan , Shi Jinsheng
Published: February 2016

Three kinds of Bi2WO6 with well-defined morphology were prepared. The nanosheet with exposed (020) facets was obtained. The origin of photoreactivity of Bi2WO6 photocatalysis was studied.
Two-dimensional graphene-like MoSe2 nanosheets anchored on hollow carbon nanofibers as a cathode catalyst for rechargeable Li–O2 batteries
Authors: Lai Yanqing , Chen Wei , Zhang Zhian , Gan Yongqing , Yang Xing , Li Jie
Published: February 2016

MoSe2@HCNF hybrids are used as the catalyst of Li–O2 batteries and exhibit superior catalytic activity. The more catalytic active sites and the enhanced electronic conductivity make the MoSe2@HCNF hybrids exhibit improved catalytic activity.
CTAB@BiOCl: a highly adsorptive photocatalyst for eliminating dye contamination
Authors: Yu Yichang , Hu Zhangjun , Zhang Yalei , Gao Hongwen
Published: February 2016

The CTAB@BiOCl composite was facilely prepared as a photocatalyst with the high absorption capacity and recycled to effectively treat dye waste water.
Sheaolein-based cold-soluble powder fats with medium- and long-chain triacylglycerol: production via chemical interesterification using sheaolein and palm kernel stearin
Authors: Xu Zhenbo , Jin Jun , Adhikari Prakash , Liang Jun , Xu Xuebing , Liu Yuanfa , Wang Xingguo
Published: February 2016

Medium- and long-chain triacylglycerol (MLCT) is increasingly popular because of its anti-obesity ability, and therefore the cold soluble powder fat containing such triacylglycerol is considered as a healthy functional food.
Silver nanoparticles with different size and shape: equal cytotoxicity, but different antibacterial effects
Authors: Helmlinger J. , Sengstock C. , Groß-Heitfeld C. , Mayer C. , Schildhauer T. A. , Köller M. , Epple M.
Published: February 2016

The influence of silver nanoparticle morphology on their dissolution kinetics in ultrapure water as well as their biological effect on eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells was examined.
Reversible quantitative guest sensing via spin crossover of an iron(ii) triazole
Authors: Miller Reece G. , Brooker Sally
Published: February 2016

Discrete mononuclear [FeII(tolpzph)2(NCS)2]·THF (1·THF), shows highly sensitive, robust and reversible solvent-dependent spin crossover, enabling it to act as a quantitative small molecule sensor.
Comment on “Theoretical studies on a carbonaceous molecular bearing: association thermodynamics and dual-mode rolling dynamics” by H. Isobe, K. Nakamura, S. Hitosugi, S. Sato, H. Tokoyama, H. Yamakado, K. Ohno and H. Kono, Chem. Sci., 2015, 6, 2746
Authors: Cabaleiro-Lago Enrique M. , Rodríguez-Otero Jesús , Gil Adrià
Published: February 2016

The LC-BLYP functional leads to unreliable results for systems governed by π⋯π interactions.
Improved tag-switch method reveals that thioredoxin acts as depersulfidase and controls the intracellular levels of protein persulfidation
Authors: Wedmann Rudolf , Onderka Constantin , Wei Shengwei , Szijártó István András , Miljkovic Jan Lj. , Mitrovic Aleksandra , Lange Mike , Savitsky Sergey , Yadav Pramod Kumar , Torregrossa Roberta , Harrer Ellen G. , Harrer Thomas , Ishii Isao , Gollasch Maik , Wood Mark E. , Galardon Erwan , Xian Ming , Whiteman Matthew , Banerjee Ruma , Filipovic Milos R.
Published: February 2016

H2S signalsviaprotein persulfidation. To be regulatory the modification will have to be reversible. Using a new method for persulfide detection, we discover this missing link and show that thioredoxin system acts as depersulfidasein vivo.