bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BASP1 interacts with oestrogen receptor α and modifies the tamoxifen response
Authors: Marsh Lindsey A , Carrera Samantha , Shandilya Jayasha , Heesom Kate J , Davidson Andrew D , Medler Kathryn F , Roberts Stefan GE
Published: May 2017

Tamoxifen binds to oestrogen receptor α (ERα) to elicit distinct responses that vary by cell/tissue type and status, but the factors that determine these differential effects are unknown. Here we report that the transcriptional corepressor BASP1 interacts with ERα and in breast cancer cells, this interaction is enhanced by tamoxifen. We find that BASP1 acts as a major selectivity factor in the transcriptional response of breast cancer cells to tamoxifen. In all, 40% of the genes that are regulated by tamoxifen in breast cancer cells are BASP1 dependent, including several genes that are associated with tamoxifen resistance. BASP1 elicits tumour-suppressor activity in breast cancer cells and enhances the antitumourigenic effects of tamoxifen treatment. Moreover, BASP1 is expressed in breast cancer tissue and is associated with increased patient survival. Our data have identified BASP1 as an ERα cofactor that has a central role in the transcriptional and antitumourigenic effects of tamoxifen.
Autophagy is essential for hearing in mice
Authors: Fujimoto Chisato , Iwasaki Shinichi , Urata Shinji , Morishita Hideaki , Sakamaki Yuriko , Fujioka Masato , Kondo Kenji , Mizushima Noboru , Yamasoba Tatsuya
Published: May 2017

Hearing loss is the most frequent sensory disorder in humans. Auditory hair cells (HCs) are postmitotic at late-embryonic differentiation and postnatal stages, and their damage is the major cause of hearing loss. There is no measurable HC regeneration in the mammalian cochlea, and the maintenance of cell function is crucial for preservation of hearing. Here we generated mice deficient in autophagy-related 5 (Atg5), a gene essential for autophagy, in the HCs to investigate the effect of basal autophagy on hearing acuity. Deletion of Atg5 resulted in HC degeneration and profound congenital hearing loss. In autophagy-deficient HCs, polyubiquitinated proteins and p62/SQSTM1, an autophagy substrate, accumulated as inclusion bodies during the first postnatal week, and these aggregates increased in number. These findings revealed that basal autophagy has an important role in maintenance of HC morphology and hearing acuity.
Structure and interstitial iodide migration in hybrid perovskite methylammonium lead iodide
Authors: Minns J. L. , Zajdel P. , Chernyshov D. , van Beek W. , Green M. A.
Published: May 2017

Hybrid perovskites form an emerging family of exceptional light harvesting compounds. However, the mechanism underpinning their photovoltaic effect is still far from understood, which is impeded by a lack of clarity on their structures. Here we show that iodide ions in the methylammonium lead iodide migrate via interstitial sites at temperatures above 280 K. This coincides with temperature dependent static distortions resulting in pseudocubic local symmetry. Based on bond distance analysis, the migrating and distorted iodines are at lengths consistent with the formation of I2 molecules, suggesting a 2I−→I2+2e− redox couple. The actual formula of this compound is thus (CH3NH3)PbI3−2x(I2)x where x∼0.007 at room temperature. A crucial feature of the tetragonal structure is that the methylammonium ions do not sit centrally in the A-site cavity, but disordered around two off-centre orientations that facilitate the interstitial ion migration via a gate opening mechanism.
Super-diffusion of excited carriers in semiconductors
Authors: Najafi Ebrahim , Ivanov Vsevolod , Zewail Ahmed , Bernardi Marco
Published: May 2017

The ultrafast spatial and temporal dynamics of excited carriers are important to understanding the response of materials to laser pulses. Here we use scanning ultrafast electron microscopy to image the dynamics of electrons and holes in silicon after excitation with a short laser pulse. We find that the carriers exhibit a diffusive dynamics at times shorter than 200 ps, with a transient diffusivity up to 1,000 times higher than the room temperature value,D0≈30 cm2s−1. The diffusivity then decreases rapidly, reaching a value ofD0roughly 500 ps after the excitation pulse. We attribute the transient super-diffusive behaviour to the rapid expansion of the excited carrier gas, which equilibrates with the environment in 100−150 ps. Numerical solution of the diffusion equation, as well asab initiocalculations, support our interpretation. Our findings provide new insight into the ultrafast spatial dynamics of excited carriers in materials.
Prolonged intracellular accumulation of light-inducible nanoparticles in leukemia cells allows their remote activation
Authors: Boto Carlos , Quartin Emanuel , Cai Yijun , Martín-Lorenzo Alberto , Cenador María Begoña García , Pinto Sandra , Gupta Rajeev , Enver Tariq , Sánchez-García Isidro , Hong Dengli , Pires das Neves Ricardo , Ferreira Lino
Published: May 2017

Leukaemia cells that are resistant to conventional therapies are thought to reside in protective niches. Here, we describe light-inducible polymeric retinoic acid (RA)-containing nanoparticles (NPs) with the capacity to accumulate in the cytoplasm of leukaemia cells for several days and release their RA payloads within a few minutes upon exposure to blue/UV light. Compared to NPs that are not activated by light exposure, these NPs more efficiently reduce the clonogenicity of bone marrow cancer cells from patients with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) and induce the differentiation of RA-low sensitive leukaemia cells. Importantly, we show that leukaemia cells transfected with light-inducible NPs containing RA can engraft into bone marrow in vivo in the proximity of other leukaemic cells, differentiate upon exposure to blue light and release paracrine factors that modulate nearby cells. The NPs described here offer a promising strategy for controlling distant cell populations and remotely modulating leukaemic niches.
Molecular basis for blue light-dependent phosphorylation of Arabidopsis cryptochrome 2
Authors: Liu Qing , Wang Qin , Deng Weixian , Wang Xu , Piao Mingxin , Cai Dawei , Li Yaxing , Barshop William D. , Yu Xiaolan , Zhou Tingting , Liu Bin , Oka Yoshito , Wohlschlegel James , Zuo Zecheng , Lin Chentao
Published: May 2017

Plant cryptochromes undergo blue light-dependent phosphorylation to regulate their activity and abundance, but the protein kinases that phosphorylate plant cryptochromes have remained unclear. Here we show that photoexcited Arabidopsis cryptochrome 2 (CRY2) is phosphorylated in vivo on as many as 24 different residues, including 7 major phosphoserines. We demonstrate that four closely related Photoregulatory Protein Kinases (previously referred to as MUT9-like kinases) interact with and phosphorylate photoexcited CRY2. Analyses of the ppk123 and ppk124 triple mutants and amiR4k artificial microRNA-expressing lines demonstrate that PPKs catalyse blue light-dependent CRY2 phosphorylation to both activate and destabilize the photoreceptor. Phenotypic analyses of these mutant lines indicate that PPKs may have additional substrates, including those involved in the phytochrome signal transduction pathway. These results reveal a mechanism underlying the co-action of cryptochromes and phytochromes to coordinate plant growth and development in response to different wavelengths of solar radiation in nature.
Self-Selecting Resistive Switching Scheme Using TiO2 Nanorod Arrays
Authors: Huang Chi-Hsin , Chou Ta-Shun , Huang Jian-Shiou , Lin Shih-Ming , Chueh Yu-Lun
Published: May 2017

In this study, the resistive switching scheme using TiO2 nanorod arrays synthesized by a large-scale and low-cost hydrothermal process was reported. Especially, the nonlinear I–V characteristics of TiO2 nanorod arrays with a nonlinearity of up to ~10, which suppress the leakage current less than 10−4 Acm−2, were demonstrated, exhibiting a self-selecting resistive switching behavior. It provides a simple pathway for integration of RRAM crossbar arrays without additional stacking of active devices. The mechanisms of the nonlinear resistive switching behaviors were discussed in detail. In addition, the maximum array numbers of 79 for self-selecting RRAM cells were estimated. The results demonstrate an opportunity of using the concept of self-selecting resistive switching characteristics in a single material, which offers a new strategy to tackle the sneak path issue of RRAM in the crossbar arrays structure.
High-salt intake negatively regulates fat deposition in mouse
Authors: Cui Huanxian , Yang Shuyan , Zheng Maiqing , Liu Ranran , Zhao Guiping , Wen Jie
Published: May 2017

High-salt (HS) intake contributes to hypertension and cardiopathy, but the effect of HS on fat deposition is controversial. Feed intake, fat mass, the percentage of abdominal fat, heat production, rate of oxygen consumption and the respiratory exchange ratio of mice on a HS diet were significantly decreased (P < 0.01 or 0.05) compared with mice on a normal-salt (NS) diet. An in vitro experiment with differentiating pre-adipocytes showed reduced fat deposition in the presence of high concentrations of NaCl (>0.05 M). Abdominal fat mRNA profiles and protein measurements showed that 5 known genes involved in lipolysis were up-regulated significantly and 9 genes related to lipogenesis were down-regulated in HS mice. Abundant genes and some proteins (ATP2a1, AGT, and ANGPTL4) related to calcium ion metabolism or the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) were differentially expressed between HS and NS mice. Of special interest, CREB1 phosphorylation (S133 and S142), a key factor involved in calcium signaling and other pathways, was up-regulated in HS mice. By IPA analysis, a network mediated by calcium was established providing the molecular mechanisms underlying the negative effect of HS on fat deposition.
Mitochondrial retrograde signaling connects respiratory capacity to thermogenic gene expression
Authors: Nam Minwoo , Akie Thomas E. , Sanosaka Masato , Craige Siobhan M. , Kant Shashi , Keaney Jr John F. , Cooper Marcus P.
Published: May 2017

Mitochondrial respiration plays a crucial role in determining the metabolic state of brown adipose tissue (BAT), due to its direct roles in thermogenesis, as well as through additional mechanisms. Here, we show that respiration-dependent retrograde signaling from mitochondria to nucleus contributes to genetic and metabolic reprogramming of BAT. In mouse BAT, ablation of LRPPRC (LRP130), a potent regulator of mitochondrial transcription and respiratory capacity, triggers down-regulation of thermogenic genes, promoting a storage phenotype in BAT. This retrograde regulation functions by inhibiting the recruitment of PPARγ to the regulatory elements of thermogenic genes. Reducing cytosolic Ca2+ reverses the attenuation of thermogenic genes in brown adipocytes with impaired respiratory capacity, while induction of cytosolic Ca2+ is sufficient to attenuate thermogenic gene expression, indicating that cytosolic Ca2+ mediates mitochondria-nucleus crosstalk. Our findings suggest respiratory capacity governs thermogenic gene expression and BAT function via mitochondria-nucleus communication, which in turn leads to either a thermogenic or storage mode.
Involvement Of Vascular Aldosterone Synthase In Phosphate-Induced Osteogenic Transformation Of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Alesutan Ioana , Voelkl Jakob , Feger Martina , Kratschmar Denise V. , Castor Tatsiana , Mia Sobuj , Sacherer Michael , Viereck Robert , Borst Oliver , Leibrock Christina , Gawaz Meinrad , Kuro-o Makoto , Pilz Stefan , Tomaschitz Andreas , Odermatt Alex , Pieske Burkert , Wagner Carsten A. , Lang Florian
Published: May 2017

Vascular calcification resulting from hyperphosphatemia is a major determinant of mortality in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Vascular calcification is driven by aldosterone-sensitive osteogenic transformation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). We show that even in absence of exogenous aldosterone, silencing and pharmacological inhibition (spironolactone, eplerenone) of the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) ameliorated phosphate-induced osteo-/chondrogenic transformation of primary human aortic smooth muscle cells (HAoSMCs). High phosphate concentrations up-regulated aldosterone synthase (CYP11B2) expression in HAoSMCs. Silencing and deficiency of CYP11B2 in VSMCs ameliorated phosphate-induced osteogenic reprogramming and calcification. Phosphate treatment was followed by nuclear export of APEX1, a CYP11B2 transcriptional repressor. APEX1 silencing up-regulated CYP11B2 expression and stimulated osteo-/chondrogenic transformation. APEX1 overexpression blunted the phosphate-induced osteo-/chondrogenic transformation and calcification of HAoSMCs. Cyp11b2 expression was higher in aortic tissue of hyperphosphatemic klotho-hypomorphic (kl/kl) mice than in wild-type mice. In adrenalectomized kl/kl mice, spironolactone treatment still significantly ameliorated aortic osteoinductive reprogramming. Our findings suggest that VSMCs express aldosterone synthase, which is up-regulated by phosphate-induced disruption of APEX1-dependent gene suppression. Vascular CYP11B2 may contribute to stimulation of VSMCs osteo-/chondrogenic transformation during hyperphosphatemia.
Nimbolide upregulates RECK by targeting miR-21 and HIF-1α in cell lines and in a hamster oral carcinogenesis model
Authors: Kowshik Jaganathan , Mishra Rajakishore , Sophia Josephraj , Rautray Satabdi , Anbarasu Kumaraswamy , Reddy G. Deepak , Dixit Madhulika , Mahalingam Sundarasamy , Nagini Siddavaram
Published: May 2017

Reversion-inducing cysteine-rich protein with Kazal motifs (RECK), a potent inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) is a common negative target of oncogenic signals and a potential therapeutic target for novel drug development. Here, we show that sequential RECKlessness stimulates angiogenesis and Notch signalling in the 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA)-induced hamster buccal pouch (HBP) carcinogenesis model, a paradigm for oral oncogenesis and chemointervention. We also report the chemotherapeutic effect of nimbolide, a limonoid from the neem tree (Azadirachta indica) based on the upregulation of RECK as well as modulation of the expression of key molecules involved in invasion and angiogenesis. We demonstrate that nimbolide upregulates RECK by targeting miR-21, and HIF-1α resulting in reduced MMP activity and blockade of VEGF and Notch signalling. Nimbolide reduced microvascular density, confirming its anti-angiogenic potential. Molecular docking analysis revealed interaction of nimbolide with HIF-1α. Additionally, we demonstrate that nimbolide upregulates RECK expression via downregulation of HIF-1α and miR-21 by overexpression and knockdown experiments in SCC4 and EAhy926 cell lines. Taken together, these findings provide compelling evidence that targeting RECK, a keystone protein that regulates mediators of invasion and angiogenesis with phytochemicals such as nimbolide may be a robust therapeutic approach to prevent oral cancer progression.
CoCO3 from one-step micro-emulsion method as electrode materials for Faradaic capacitors
Authors: Wang Yanfang , Chang Zheng , Zhang Yi , Chen Bingwei , Fu Lijun , Zhu Yusong , Zhang Lixin , Wu Yuping
Published: May 2017

Faradaic capacitor (FC) has been widely investigated during the past few decades, and dozens of prototypes have been proposed. However, it has not reached its full potential. In this work, we demonstrate a kind of FC comprising of a CoCO3 electrode. Synthesized through a micro-emulsion route, such CoCO3 shows low crystallinity and porous wool-ball structures stacked by needle-like individuals. It shows desirable electrochemical properties in terms of excellent high-rate performance and high reversibility. Also, it could deliver a capacitance of 440 F·g−1 at 1 A·g−1, and shows no capacitance decay after 1000 cycles. Since metal carbonate is capable of delivering good electrochemical performances and its preparation is easier and more cost-efficient, it should be a feasible candidate for electrode material of FC.
Lipoxygenase 2 from Cyanothece sp. controls dioxygen insertion by steric shielding and substrate fixation
Authors: Newie Julia , Neumann Piotr , Werner Martin , Mata Ricardo A. , Ficner Ralf , Feussner Ivo
Published: May 2017

The biological function of lipoxygenases depends on the regio and stereo specific formation of fatty acid-derived hydroperoxides and different concepts exist to explain the mechanism that directs dioxygen to a specific carbon atom within the substrate. Here, we report the 1.8 Å resolution crystal structure of a cyanobacterial lipoxygenase that produces bis-allylic hydroperoxides (CspLOX2). Site directed mutagenesis experiments combined with computational approaches reveal that residues around the active site direct dioxygen to a preferred carbon atom and stereo configuration in the substrate fatty acid. Modulating the cavity volume around the pentadiene system of linoleic acid shifted the product formation towards 9S-, 9R-, 13S- or 13R-hydroperoxides in correlation with the site of mutation, thus decreasing the amount of the bis-allylic 11R-hydroperoxide. Decreasing the channel size of a 9R-lipoxygenase (CspLOX1) on the other hand could in turn induce formation of the bis-allylic 11R-hydroperoxide. Together this study suggests that an active site clamp fixing the pentadiene system of the substrate together with steric shielding controls the stereo and regio specific positioning of dioxygen at all positions of the reacting pentadiene system of substrate fatty acids.
The Biomechanics Behind Extreme Osteophagy in Tyrannosaurus rex
Authors: Gignac Paul M. , Erickson Gregory M.
Published: May 2017

Most carnivorous mammals can pulverize skeletal elements by generating tooth pressures between occluding teeth that exceed cortical bone shear strength, thereby permitting access to marrow and phosphatic salts. Conversely, carnivorous reptiles have non-occluding dentitions that engender negligible bone damage during feeding. As a result, most reptilian predators can only consume bones in their entirety. Nevertheless, North American tyrannosaurids, including the giant (13 metres [m]) theropod dinosaur Tyrannosaurus rex stand out for habitually biting deeply into bones, pulverizing and digesting them. How this mammal-like capacity was possible, absent dental occlusion, is unknown. Here we analyzed T. rex feeding behaviour from trace evidence, estimated bite forces and tooth pressures, and studied tooth-bone contacts to provide the answer. We show that bone pulverization was made possible through a combination of: (1) prodigious bite forces (8,526–34,522 newtons [N]) and tooth pressures (718–2,974 megapascals [MPa]) promoting crack propagation in bones, (2) tooth form and dental arcade configurations that concentrated shear stresses, and (3) repetitive, localized biting. Collectively, these capacities and behaviors allowed T. rex to finely fragment bones and more fully exploit large dinosaur carcasses for sustenance relative to competing carnivores.
A microfluidic chip for screening individual cancer cells via eavesdropping on autophagy-inducing crosstalk in the stroma niche
Authors: Karakas Hacer Ezgi , Kim Junyoung , Park Juhee , Oh Jung Min , Choi Yongjun , Gozuacik Devrim , Cho Yoon-Kyoung
Published: May 2017

Autophagy is a cellular homeostatic mechanism where proteins and organelles are digested and recycled to provide an alternative source of building blocks and energy to cells. The role of autophagy in cancer microenvironment is still poorly understood. Here, we present a microfluidic system allowing monitoring of the crosstalk between single cells. We used this system to study how tumor cells induced autophagy in the stromal niche. Firstly, we could confirm that transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1) secreted from breast tumor cells is a paracrine mediator of tumor-stroma interaction leading to the activation of autophagy in the stroma component fibroblasts. Through proof of concept experiments using TGFβ1 as a model factor, we could demonstrate real time monitoring of autophagy induction in fibroblasts by single tumor cells. Retrieval of individual tumor cells from the microfluidic system and their subsequent genomic analysis was possible, allowing us to determine the nature of the factor mediating tumor-stroma interactions. Therefore, our microfluidic platform might be used as a promising tool for quantitative investigation of tumor–stroma interactions, especially for and high-throughput screening of paracrine factors that are secreted from heterogeneous tumor cell populations.
Cut-off optimization for 13C-urea breath test in a community-based trial by mathematic, histology and serology approach
Authors: Li Zhe-Xuan , Huang Lei-Lei , Liu Cong , Formichella Luca , Zhang Yang , Wang Yu-Mei , Zhang Lian , Ma Jun-Ling , Liu Wei-Dong , Ulm Kurt , Wang Jian-Xi , Zhang Lei , Bajbouj Monther , Li Ming , Vieth Michael , Quante Michael , Zhou Tong , Wang Le-Hua , Suchanek Stepan , Soutschek Erwin , Schmid Roland , Classen Meinhard , You Wei-Cheng , Gerhard Markus , Pan Kai-Feng
Published: May 2017

The performance of diagnostic tests in intervention trials of Helicobacter pylori (H.pylori) eradication is crucial, since even minor inaccuracies can have major impact. To determine the cut-off point for 13C-urea breath test (13C-UBT) and to assess if it can be further optimized by serologic testing, mathematic modeling, histopathology and serologic validation were applied. A finite mixture model (FMM) was developed in 21,857 subjects, and an independent validation by modified Giemsa staining was conducted in 300 selected subjects. H.pylori status was determined using recomLine H.pylori assay in 2,113 subjects with a borderline 13C-UBT results. The delta over baseline-value (DOB) of 3.8 was an optimal cut-off point by a FMM in modelling dataset, which was further validated as the most appropriate cut-off point by Giemsa staining (sensitivity = 94.53%, specificity = 92.93%). In the borderline population, 1,468 subjects were determined as H.pylori positive by recomLine (69.5%). A significant correlation between the number of positive H.pylori serum responses and DOB value was found (rs = 0.217, P < 0.001). A mathematical approach such as FMM might be an alternative measure in optimizing the cut-off point for 13C-UBT in community-based studies, and a second method to determine H.pylori status for subjects with borderline value of 13C-UBT was necessary and recommended.
Metabolomic analysis shows differential hepatic effects of T2 and T3 in rats after short-term feeding with high fat diet
Authors: Iannucci Liliana F. , Cioffi Federica , Senese Rosalba , Goglia Fernando , Lanni Antonia , Yen Paul M. , Sinha Rohit A.
Published: May 2017

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a major health problem worldwide, and is often associated with lipotoxic injury, defective mitochondrial function, and insulin resistance. Thyroid hormones (THs) are important regulators of hepatic lipid metabolism. Among the THs, diiodothyronine (T2) and triiodothyronine (T3) have shown promising results in lowering hepatic fat content in various models of NAFLD. In this study, we used a targeted metabolomics approach to investigate the differential effects of T2 and T3 on the early metabolic adaptation in the livers of rats fed high fat diet (HFD), a period when hepatosteatosis is reversible. Our results showed that both T2 and T3 strongly induced autophagy and intra-hepatic acylcarnitine flux but prevented the generation of sphingolipid/ceramides in animals fed HFD. Interestingly, although both T2 and T3 decreased hepatic fat content, only T2 was able to rescue the impairment in AKT and MAPK/ERK pathways caused by HFD. In summary, we have identified and characterized the effects of T2 and T3 on hepatic metabolism during short-term exposure to HFD. These findings illuminate the common and divergent metabolic pathways by T2 and T3 that also may be important in the prevention and treatment of NAFLD.
Endocytic uptake of monomeric amyloid-β peptides is clathrin- and dynamin-independent and results in selective accumulation of Aβ(1–42) compared to Aβ(1–40)
Authors: Wesén Emelie , Jeffries Gavin D. M. , Matson Dzebo Maria , Esbjörner Elin K.
Published: May 2017

Intraneuronal accumulation of amyloid-β (Aβ) peptides represent an early pathological feature in Alzheimer’s disease. We have therefore utilized flow cytometry and confocal microscopy in combination with endocytosis inhibition to explore the internalisation efficiency and uptake mechanisms of Aβ(1–40) and Aβ(1–42) monomers in cultured SH-SY5Y cells. We find that both variants are constitutively internalised via endocytosis and that their uptake is proportional to cellular endocytic rate. Moreover, SH-SY5Y cells internalise consistently twice the amount of Aβ(1–42) compared to Aβ(1–40); an imaging-based quantification showed that cells treated with 1 µM peptide for 8 h contained 800,000 peptides of Aβ(1–42) and 400,000 of Aβ(1–40). Both variants co-localised to >90% with lysosomes or other acidic compartments. Dynasore and chlorpromazine endocytosis inhibitors were both found to reduce uptake, particularly of Aβ(1–42). Overexpression of the C-terminal of the clathrin-binding domain of AP180, dynamin2 K44A, or Arf6 Q67L did however not reduce uptake of the Aβ variants. By contrast, perturbation of actin polymerisation and inhibition of macropinocytosis reduced Aβ(1–40) and Aβ(1–42) uptake considerably. This study clarifies mechanisms of Aβ(1–40) and Aβ(1–42) uptake, pinpoints differences between the two variants and highlights a common and putative role of macropinocytosis in the early accumulation of intraneuronal Aβ in AD.
Up regulation and nuclear translocation of Y-box binding protein 1 (YB-1) is linked to poor prognosis in ERG-negative prostate cancer
Authors: Heumann Asmus , Kaya Özge , Burdelski Christoph , Hube-Magg Claudia , Kluth Martina , Lang Dagmar S. , Simon Ronald , Beyer Burkhard , Thederan Imke , Sauter Guido , Izbicki Jakob R. , Luebke Andreas M. , Hinsch Andrea , Jacobsen Frank , Wittmer Corinna , Büscheck Franziska , Höflmayer Doris , Minner Sarah , Tsourlakis Maria Christina , Schlomm Thorsten , Wilczak Waldemar
Published: May 2017

Y-box binding protein 1 (YB-1) is an RNA and DNA binding factor with potential prognostic cancer. To evaluate the clinical impact of YB-1, a tissue microarray with 11,152 prostate cancers was analysed by immunohistochemistry. Cytoplasmic and nuclear staining was separately analysed. Cytoplasmic YB-1 was absent or weak in normal epithelium but seen in 86,3% of carcinomas. Cytoplasmic staining was weak, moderate, and strong in 29.6%, 43.7% and 13.0% of tumours and was accompanied by nuclear YB-1 staining in 32.1% of cases. Particularly nuclear staining was strongly linked to poor patient prognosis (p < 0.0001). YB-1 protein was more abundant in ERG positive (95.1%) than in ERG negative cancers (80.4%; p < 0.0001), but any prognostic impact of YB-1 staining was limited to the ERG-negative subset. Similarly, significant associations with pT stage and Gleason grade (p < 0.0001 each) were driven by the ERG negative subset. The significant association of YB-1 protein detection with deletions of PTEN, 5q21 and 6q15 fits well in the protein’s role as an inhibitor of DNA damage dependent cell cycle arrest, a role that is likely to induce genomic instability. In summary, the data show, that the prognostic impact of YB-1 expression is limited to ERG negative prostate cancers.
Changes in oxidized LDL during a half marathon in athletes with spinal cord injuries
Authors: Mitsui Toshihito , Ito Tomoyuki , Sasaki Yusuke , Kawasaki Takashi , Nakamura Takeshi , Nishimura Yukihide , Ibusuki Tatsuru , Higuchi Yukiharu , Hosoe Sayoko , Ito Fumiaki , Tajima Fumihiro
Published: May 2017

Introduction:

We reported previously that exercise significantly increases plasma adrenaline and oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) in healthy subjects but not in persons with spinal cord injury (SCI). Since oxLDL and adrenaline levels are associated with oxidant/antioxidant balance, and exercise training elicits production of reactive oxygen species, we elucidated the effects of exercise on adrenaline, oxidant/antioxidant balance and oxLDL in individuals with SCI.

Case Presentation:

Eight subjects with cervical spinal cord injury (CSCI) and nine subjects with lower lesion of SCI (lower SCI (LSCI)) participated in a wheelchair half marathon race, and blood samples were collected before (pre), immediately after (post) and 1 h after the race (post 1 h). The blood samples were used to determine adrenaline, derivatives of reactive oxygen metabolites (d-ROMs) and biological antioxidant potential (BAP), both as markers for oxidant/antioxidant balance.

Discussion:

Pre-serum oxLDL levels were 147.2±8.1 and 97.0±10.4 U l−1 (mean±s.e.m.) in LCSI and CSCI subjects, respectively, and remained stable throughout the study. Adrenaline levels were higher in LSCI athletes than in CSCI athletes, especially post half marathon. Serum d-ROMs level did not change between pre and post in both groups. The mean BAP was significantly higher in LSCI than in CSCI subjects (2574±94.6 vs 2118±94.6 μmol l−1) at post, whereas the oxidative stress index (d-ROMs/BAP) was similar in the two groups throughout the study. In conclusion, exercise did not increase the d-ROMs or d-ROMs/BAP ratio in CSCI and LSCI subjects. The lack of increase in the plasma oxLDL level in SCI subjects was not due to the lack of response of adrenaline to exercise.
An ecologically-controlled exoskeleton can improve balance recovery after slippage
Authors: Monaco V. , Tropea P. , Aprigliano F. , Martelli D. , Parri A. , Cortese M. , Molino-Lova R. , Vitiello N. , Micera S.
Published: May 2017

The evolution to bipedalism forced humans to develop suitable strategies for dynamically controlling their balance, ensuring stability, and preventing falling. The natural aging process and traumatic events such as lower-limb loss can alter the human ability to control stability significantly increasing the risk of fall and reducing the overall autonomy. Accordingly, there is an urgent need, from both end-users and society, for novel solutions that can counteract the lack of balance, thus preventing falls among older and fragile citizens. In this study, we show a novel ecological approach relying on a wearable robotic device (the Active Pelvis Orthosis, APO) aimed at facilitating balance recovery after unexpected slippages. Specifically, if the APO detects signs of balance loss, then it supplies counteracting torques at the hips to assist balance recovery. Experimental tests conducted on eight elderly persons and two transfemoral amputees revealed that stability against falls improved due to the “assisting when needed” behavior of the APO. Interestingly, our approach required a very limited personalization for each subject, and this makes it promising for real-life applications. Our findings demonstrate the potential of closed-loop controlled wearable robots to assist elderly and disabled subjects and to improve their quality of life.
Enhanced reactivity and selectivity of asymmetric oxa-Michael addition of 2′-hydroxychalcones in carbon confined spaces
Authors: Shaikh Melad , Atyam Kiran Kumar , Sahu Mahendra , Ranganath Kalluri V. S.
Published: May 2017

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are employed as nanoscale reaction vessels for the asymmetric oxa-Michael addition of 2′-hydroxychalcones.
Rapid synthesis of bicyclic lactones via palladium-catalyzed aminocarbonylative lactonizations
Authors: Yin Xianglin , Mohammad Haroon , Eldesouky Hassan E. , Abdelkhalek Ahmed , Seleem Mohamed N. , Dai Mingji
Published: May 2017

Novel palladium-catalyzed aminocarbonylative lactonizations have been developed to synthesize bicyclic lactones with antibacterial and antifungal activities.
Competition between stability of icosahedral and cuboctahedral morphologies in bimetallic nanoalloys
Authors: Akbarzadeh Hamed , Abbaspour Mohsen , Mehrjouei Esmat
Published: May 2017

In this study, we investigated the heating process for pure (Rh55 and Cu55), single dopant (Rh1Cu54 and Rh54Cu), core@shell (Rh13@Cu42 and Cu13@Rh42), and alloy (Rh13Cu42, Rh42Cu13) nanoclusters in two structures (cuboctahedral and icosahedral) from 0 to 2000 K using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations.
Towards improved magnetic fluid hyperthermia: major-loops to diminish variations in local heating
Authors: Munoz-Menendez Cristina , Serantes David , Ruso Juan M. , Baldomir Daniel
Published: May 2017

A low anisotropy constant allows us to decrease local heating dispersion for a given applied magnetic field amplitude.
Lifshitz phase: the microscopic structure of aqueous and ethanol mixtures of 1,n-diols
Authors: Požar Martina , Perera Aurélien
Published: May 2017

We study binary mixtures of ethylene glycol and 1,3-propandiol with water or ethanol using computer simulations.
Mechanistic insights into complete hydrogenation of 1,3-butadiene over Pt/SiO2: effect of Pt dispersion and kinetic analysis
Authors: Hu Chaoquan , Sun Jiahan , Kang Dongjuan , Zhu Qingshan , Yang Yafeng
Published: May 2017

Gas-phase hydrogenation of 1,3-butadiene was investigated over Pt/SiO2catalysts with the aim of understanding the complete hydrogenation of dienes.
Constructing three-dimensional porous Ni/Ni3S2 nano-interfaces for hydrogen evolution electrocatalysis under alkaline conditions
Authors: An Yiming , Huang Bolong , Wang Zilong , Long Xia , Qiu Yongcai , Hu Jue , Zhou Dan , Lin He , Yang Shihe
Published: May 2017

A facile, two-step synthetic approach was developed to produce a novel, three-dimensional porous Ni/Ni3S2 nanostructured catalyst. This unique structure can expose sufficient Ni/Ni3S2 interfaces to the electrolyte to obtain synergetic catalytic effects.
Creation of bismuth–tungsten oxide nanoclusters using lacunary polyoxometalates
Authors: Hanaya Takumi , Suzuki Kosuke , Sato Rinta , Yamaguchi Kazuya , Mizuno Noritaka
Published: May 2017

Heterometallic bismuth tungsten–oxide nanoclusters were successfully synthesized by the reactions of lacunary silicotungstates (trivacant [A-α-SiW9O34]10− and divacant [γ-SiW10O36]8−) and Bi3+ in organic solvents.
Resource recovery by osmotic bioelectrochemical systems towards sustainable wastewater treatment
Authors: Qin Mohan , He Zhen
Published: May 2017

This paper reviews previous studies, describes the current status, presents qualitative and quantitative analyses, and discusses perspectives of OsBES technology, focusing on NEW recovery from wastewater .
Asymmetric bead aggregation for microfluidic immunodetection
Authors: Kim Sunggu , Han Sanghoon , Lee Junghoon
Published: May 2017

We present the asymmetric immunoaggregation between polystyrene and magnetic beads, which enables quantitative detection of target analytes via sliding motion in a flow.
Fullerene C60dianion salt, (Me4N+)2(C602−)·(TPC)2·2C6H4Cl2, where TPC is triptycene, obtained by a multicomponent approach
Authors: Konarev Dmitri V. , Troyanov Sergey I. , Otsuka Akihiro , Yamochi Hideki , Saito Gunzi , Lyubovskaya Rimma N.
Published: May 2017

The hexagonal TPC network accommodates small Me4N+cations and becomes a template to build zigzag closely packed chains from the C602−dianions in (Me4N+)2(C602−)·(TPC)2·2C6H4Cl2(1) (figure).
Ir/BiphPHOX-catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation of 3-substituted 2,5-dihydropyrroles and 2,5-dihydrothiophene 1,1-dioxides
Authors: Meng Ke , Xia Jingzhao , Wang Yanzhao , Zhang Xinghua , Yang Guoqiang , Zhang Wanbin
Published: May 2017

An efficient asymmetric hydrogenation of 3-substituted 2,5-dihydropyrroles and 2,5-dihydrothiophene 1,1-dioxides was developed using an Ir catalyst with an axially flexible chiral phosphine-oxazoline ligand.
Effect of textual features and surface properties of activated carbon on the production of hydrogen peroxide from hydroxylamine oxidation
Authors: Song Wei , Yu Lin , Xie Xiaowei , Hao Zhifeng , Sun Ming , Wen Hongli , Li Yongfeng
Published: May 2017

Herein, the textural features and surface properties of activated carbon were mediated by oxidation in the gas-phase or liquid-phase.
Facile synthesis of mesoporous titanium dioxide doped by Ag-coated graphene with enhanced visible-light photocatalytic performance for methylene blue degradation
Authors: Xiao Lin , Youji Li , Feitai Chen , Peng Xu , Ming Li
Published: May 2017

A highly efficient and elaborately structured visible-light-driven catalyst composed of mesoporous TiO2 (MT) doped with Ag+-coated graphene (MT-Ag/GR) has been successfully fabricated by a sol–gel and solvothermal method.
Organic anion transporters 1 (OAT1) and OAT3 meditated the protective effect of rhein on methotrexate-induced nephrotoxicity
Authors: Liu Zhihao , Jia Yongming , Wang Changyuan , Meng Qiang , Huo Xiaokui , Sun Huijun , Sun Pengyuan , Yang Xiaobo , Ma Xiaodong , Peng Jinyong , Liu Kexin
Published: May 2017

Rhein protects methotrexate induced kidney damage mediated by OAT1 and OAT3.
Synthesis of four-angle star-like CoAl-MMO/BiVO4 p–n heterojunction and its application in photocatalytic desulfurization
Authors: Yun Limin , Yang Zhanxu , Yu Zong-Bao , Cai Tianfeng , Li Yue , Guo Changyou , Qi Chengyuan , Ren Tieqiang
Published: May 2017

Four-angle star-like BiVO4 loaded with highly dispersed CoAl-MMO nanoparticles demonstrated highly efficient photocatalytic oxidation of thiophene under visible light irradiation. It's due to a narrower band gap, and more negative flat band potential of the composite.
Yellow electrochromic polymer materials with fine tuning electrofluorescences by adjusting steric hindrance of side chains
Authors: Liu Jian , Shi Yuchen , Wu Jingchuan , Li Mei , Zheng Jianming , Xu Chunye
Published: May 2017

A series of novel conducting conjugated yellow-to-transmissive electrochromic (EC) polymers were designed to research their structure–property relationships, achieving electrofluorescent (EF) switching with applied external potential.
Discrimination of supramolecular chirality using a protein nanopore
Authors: Cooper James A. , Borsley Stefan , Lusby Paul J. , Cockroft Scott L.
Published: May 2017

Transmembrane protein nanopores are shown to be capable of discriminating the supramolecular chirality of cage complexes at the single-molecule level.
First report on a FeS-based 2 V operating flexible solid-state symmetric supercapacitor device
Authors: Karade Swapnil S. , Dwivedi Pratibha , Majumder Sutripto , Pandit Bidhan , Sankapal Babasaheb R.
Published: May 2017

Device grade application of FeS thin film deposited by successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) method at room temperature.
A-site order–disorder in the NdBaMn2O5+δ SOFC electrode material monitored in situ by neutron diffraction under hydrogen flow
Authors: Tonus Florent , Bahout Mona , Dorcet Vincent , Sharma Rakesh K. , Djurado Elisabeth , Paofai Serge , Smith Ronald I. , Skinner Stephen J.
Published: May 2017

Phase change of Nd0.5Ba0.5MnO3−δ to the electrode material, NdBaMn2O5+δ, occurs under hydrogen atmosphere at T ∼ 800 °C.
Ultrahigh electric displacement and energy density in gradient layer-structured BaTiO3/PVDF nanocomposites with an interfacial barrier effect
Authors: Wang Yifei , Wang Linxi , Yuan Qibin , Niu Yujuan , Chen Jie , Wang Qing , Wang Hong
Published: May 2017

The design of gradient layer-structured BaTiO3/PVDF nanocomposites gives rise to highly enhanced breakdown strength and discharged energy density.
Enhanced photocatalytic activity of La3+ and Se4+ co-doped bismuth ferrite nanostructures
Authors: Irfan Syed , Li Liangliang , Saleemi Awais Siddique , Nan Ce-Wen
Published: May 2017

We investigated the effect of La3+ and Se4+ co-doping on the photocatalytic activity of BiFeO3 for efficient purification of polluted water from industrial waste.
Impact of moisture on efficiency-determining electronic processes in perovskite solar cells
Authors: Salado Manuel , Contreras-Bernal Lidia , Caliò Laura , Todinova Anna , López-Santos Carmen , Ahmad Shahzada , Borras Ana , Idígoras Jesús , Anta Juan A.
Published: May 2017

Moisture-induced degradation in perovskite solar cells was thoroughly investigated by structural (SEM, EDS, XRD and XPS) and device characterization (impedance and intensity modulated photocurrent spectroscopy) techniques.
An interpenetrating network poly(diethylene glycol carbonate)-based polymer electrolyte for solid state lithium batteries
Authors: Liu Xiaochen , Ding Guoliang , Zhou Xinhong , Li Shizhen , He Weisheng , Chai Jingchao , Pang Chunguang , Liu Zhihong , Cui Guanglei
Published: May 2017

A novel polycarbonate-based polymer electrolytes could be applied for high voltage lithium batteries duo to its good electrochemical stability, superior electrochemical performance and molecular structure.
Laser effects on phase transition for cubic Sb2O3 microcrystals under high pressure
Authors: Sui Zhilei , Hu Shuhe , Chen Hao , Gao Chan , Su Hao , Rahman Azizur , Dai Rucheng , Wang Zhongping , Zheng Xianxu , Zhang Zengming
Published: May 2017

Laser irradiation transforms Sb2O3 from the tetragonal phase into an HD-amorphous phase under high pressure and back to cubic phase from LD-amorphous phase at ambient conditions.
Water detection through Nd3+-sensitized photon upconversion in core–shell nanoarchitecture
Authors: Chen Daqin , Xu Min , Huang Ping , Ma Mengfan , Ding Mingye , Lei Lei
Published: May 2017

Herein, a strategy to achieve an 808 nm excitable water probe based on an Nd3+-sensitized core–shell upconversion nanoarchitecture is presented.
Language Development and Brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging Characteristics in Preschool Children With Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Choi Ja Young , Choi Yoon Seong , Park Eun Sook
Published: May 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate characteristics of language development in relation to brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) characteristics and the other contributing factors to language development in children with cerebral palsy (CP).

Method

The study included 172 children with CP who underwent brain MRI and language assessments between 3 and 7 years of age. The MRI characteristics were categorized as normal, malformation, periventricular white matter lesion (PVWL), deep gray matter lesion, focal infarct, cortical/subcortical lesion, and others. Neurodevelopmental outcomes such as ambulatory status, manual ability, cognitive function, and accompanying impairments were assessed.

Results

Both receptive and expressive language development quotients (DQs) were significantly related to PVWL or deep gray matter lesion severity. In multivariable analysis, only cognitive function was significantly related to receptive language development, whereas ambulatory status and cognitive function were significantly associated with expressive language development. More than one third of the children had a language developmental discrepancy between receptive and expressive DQs. Children with cortical/subcortical lesions were at high risk for this discrepancy.

Conclusions

Cognitive function is a key factor for both receptive and expressive language development. In children with PVWL or deep gray matter lesion, lesion severity seems to be useful to predict language development.
Changes in Psychosocial Measures After a 6-Week Field Trial
Authors: Desjardins Jamie L. , Doherty Karen A.
Published: May 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to assess the extent to which intervention with hearing aids, namely, a 6-week hearing aid field trial, can minimize the psychosocial consequences of hearing loss in adults who have previously not sought treatment for their hearing loss.

Method

Twenty-four adults with mild to moderate bilateral sensorineural hearing loss, who had never worn hearing aids or sought help for their hearing loss, participated in this study. Participants were fitted with receiver-in-canal hearing aids, bilaterally, and wore them for 6 weeks. Participants completed subjective measures of hearing handicap and attitudes about hearing loss and hearing aids before, during, and after the hearing aid trial. A control group of age-matched participants followed the same experimental protocol, except they were not fitted with hearing aids.

Results

Using hearing aids for 6 weeks significantly reduced participants' perceived stigma of hearing aids, personal distress and inadequacy due to hearing difficulties, and hearing handicap.

Conclusions

A hearing aid trial can have a positive effect on a person's attitudes toward wearing hearing aids and decrease hearing handicap.
Auditory Verbal Working Memory as a Predictor of Speech Perception in Modulated Maskers in Listeners With Normal Hearing
Authors: Millman Rebecca E. , Mattys Sven L.
Published: May 2017

Purpose

Background noise can interfere with our ability to understand speech. Working memory capacity (WMC) has been shown to contribute to the perception of speech in modulated noise maskers. WMC has been assessed with a variety of auditory and visual tests, often pertaining to different components of working memory. This study assessed the relationship between speech perception in modulated maskers and components of auditory verbal working memory (AVWM) over a range of signal-to-noise ratios.

Method

Speech perception in noise and AVWM were measured in 30 listeners (age range 31–67 years) with normal hearing. AVWM was estimated using forward digit recall, backward digit recall, and nonword repetition.

Results

After controlling for the effects of age and average pure-tone hearing threshold, speech perception in modulated maskers was related to individual differences in the phonological component of working memory (as assessed by nonword repetition) but only in the least favorable signal-to-noise ratio. The executive component of working memory (as assessed by backward digit) was not predictive of speech perception in any conditions.

Conclusions

AVWM is predictive of the ability to benefit from temporal dips in modulated maskers: Listeners with greater phonological WMC are better able to correctly identify sentences in modulated noise backgrounds.
Low‐phase noise Class‐C VCO with dynamic body bias
Authors: Jang S.‐L. , Wang J.‐J.
Published: May 2017

A 2.5 GHz Class‐C voltage‐controlled oscillator (VCO) with dynamic back‐gate‐biased MOSFET is proposed. A dynamic gate biasing circuit is used to reduce power consumption by switching N‐type MOS from initial Class‐AB to Class‐C operation in steady state. Moreover, the VCO uses dynamic back‐gate bias to reduce threshold voltage of switching MOSFET during the start‐up oscillation. The Class‐C differential VCO is implemented in TSMC 0.18 μm bipolar‐complementary‐metal‐oxide‐semiconductor (BiCMOS) process. The measured phase noise is −124.8 dBc/Hz at 1 MHz offset frequency from 2.48 GHz carrier while consuming 2.64 mW power from a 0.8 V supply. Tuning range of VCO is 0.72 GHz, from 2.48 to 3.3 GHz, whereas the control voltage was tuned from 0 to 2 V. The VCO occupies a chip area of 446 × 840 μm2 and provides a figure of merit of −197.55 dBc/Hz.
Improving the serialisation of Trajectory approach for switched Ethernet network
Authors: Xiong Ying , He Feng , Li Xiaoting , Zhao Changxiao , Xiong Huagang
Published: May 2017

Worst‐case end‐to‐end delay analysis is important for real‐time applications of switched Ethernet network. The Trajectory approach is one of the mature tools for worst‐case delay analysis to calculate the upper bound of delay. The delay analysis based on the Trajectory approach as well as the packet serialisation of such networks is presented. An optimisation of packet serialisation is proposed in order to improve the Trajectory approach. A case study is illustrated to compare the improved Trajectory approach with the classical one, and the result shows that the improved Trajectory approach can get tighter upper bound of end‐to‐end delay.