bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selective dissolution of halide perovskites as a step towards recycling solar cells
Authors: Kim Byeong Jo , Kim Dong Hoe , Kwon Seung Lee , Park So Yeon , Li Zhen , Zhu Kai , Jung Hyun Suk
Published: May 2016

Most research on perovskite solar cells has focused on improving power-conversion efficiency and stability. However, if one could refurbish perovskite solar cells, their stability might not be a critical issue. From the perspective of cost effectiveness, if failed, perovskite solar cells could be collected and recycled; reuse of their gold electrodes and transparent conducting glasses could reduce the price per watt of perovskite photovoltaic modules. Herein, we present a simple and effective method for removing the perovskite layer and reusing the mesoporous TiO2-coated transparent conducting glass substrate via selective dissolution. We find that the perovskite layer can be easily decomposed in polar aprotic solvents because of the reaction between polar aprotic solvents and Pb2+ cations. After 10 cycles of recycling, a mesoporous TiO2-coated transparent conducting glass substrate-based perovskite solar cell still shows a constant power-conversion efficiency, thereby demonstrating the possibility of recycling perovskite solar cells.
The longitudinal effect of the aldehyde dehydrogenase 2*2 allele on the risk for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Oniki K , Morita K , Watanabe T , Kajiwara A , Otake K , Nakagawa K , Sasaki Y , Ogata Y , Saruwatari J
Published: May 2016

Aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) detoxifies toxic aldehydes and has a key role in protecting the liver. An elevated gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) level is related to oxidative stress and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We herein investigated the association between inactive ALDH2*2 allele (rs671) and the risk of NAFLD, including the relationship to the GGT level. A retrospective follow-up study (mean 5.4±1.1 years) was conducted among 341 Japanese health screening program participants. The receiver operating characteristic curve indicated that the GGT level predicted the development of NAFLD (area under the curve: 0.65, P<0.05) with a cutoff value of 25.5 IUl−1. The longitudinal risk of NAFLD was higher in the ALDH2*2 allele carriers than in the noncarriers (odds ratio (OR): 2.30, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.21–4.40), and the risk was further increased among the *2 allele carriers with GGT values ⩾25.5 IUl−1 (OR: 4.28, 95% CI: 1.80–10.19). On the other hand, there were no significant changes in the subjects’ body weight and body mass index during observation period. The ALDH2*2 allele, in relation to the GGT level, may potentially be a novel risk factor for NAFLD.
Revisiting kinetic boundary conditions at the surface of fuel droplet hydrocarbons: An atomistic computational fluid dynamics simulation
Authors: Nasiri Rasoul
Published: May 2016

The role of boundary conditions at the interface for both Boltzmann equation and the set of Navier-Stokes equations have been suggested to be important for studying of multiphase flows such as evaporation/condensation process which doesn’t always obey the equilibrium conditions. Here we present aspects of transition-state theory (TST) alongside with kinetic gas theory (KGT) relevant to the study of quasi-equilibrium interfacial phenomena and the equilibrium gas phase processes, respectively. A two-state mathematical model for long-chain hydrocarbons which have multi-structural specifications is introduced to clarify how kinetics and thermodynamics affect evaporation/condensation process at the surface of fuel droplet, liquid and gas phases and then show how experimental observations for a number ofn-alkane may be reproduced using a hybrid framework TST and KGT with physically reasonable parameters controlling the interface, gas and liquid phases. The importance of internal activation dynamics at the surface ofn-alkane droplets is established during the evaporation/condensation process.
Finding novel distinctions between the sAPPα-mediated anabolic biochemical pathways in Autism Spectrum Disorder and Fragile X Syndrome plasma and brain tissue
Authors: Ray Balmiki , Sokol Deborah K. , Maloney Bryan , Lahiri Debomoy K.
Published: May 2016

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and Fragile X syndrome (FXS) are developmental disorders. No validated blood-based biomarkers exist for either, which impedes bench-to-bedside approaches. Amyloid-β (Aβ) precursor protein (APP) and metabolites are usually associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). APP cleavage by α-secretase produces potentially neurotrophic secreted APPα (sAPPα) and the P3 peptide fragment. β-site APP cleaving enzyme (BACE1) cleavage produces secreted APPβ (sAPPβ) and intact Aβ. Excess Aβ is potentially neurotoxic and can lead to atrophy of brain regions such as amygdala in AD. By contrast, amygdala is enlarged in ASD but not FXS. We previously reported elevated levels of sAPPα in ASD and FXS vs. controls. We now report elevated plasma Aβ and total APP levels in FXS compared to both ASD and typically developing controls, and elevated levels of sAPPα in ASD and FXS vs. controls. By contrast, plasma and brain sAPPβ and Aβ were lower in ASD vs. controls but elevated in FXS plasma vs. controls. We also detected age-dependent increase in an α-secretase in ASD brains. We report a novel mechanistic difference in APP pathways between ASD (processing) and FXS (expression) leading to distinct APP metabolite profiles in these two disorders. These novel, distinctive biochemical differences between ASD and FXS pave the way for blood-based biomarkers for ASD and FXS.
Comparative Analysis of VOCs in Exhaled Breath of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy Patients
Authors: Wang Changsong , Li Mingjuan , Jiang Hongquan , Tong Hongshuang , Feng Yue , Wang Yue , Pi Xin , Guo Lei , Nie Maomao , Feng Honglin , Li Enyou
Published: May 2016

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an incurable neurological degenerative disease. It can cause irreversible neurological damage to motor neurons; typical symptoms include muscle weakness and atrophy, bulbar paralysis and pyramidal tract signs. The ALS-mimicking disease cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) presents similar symptoms, but analysis of breath volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can potentially be used to distinguish ALS from CSM. In this study, breath samples were collected from 28 ALS and 13 CSM patients. Subsequently, gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GCMS) was used to analyze breath VOCs. Principal component analysis (PCA) and orthogonal partial least-squares discriminant analysis (OPLSDA) were the statistical methods used to process the final data. We identified 4 compounds with significantly decreased levels in ALS patients compared with CSM controls: (1) carbamic acid, monoammonium salt; (2) 1-alanine ethylamide, (S)-; (3) guanidine, N,N-dimethyl-; and (4) phosphonic acid, (p-hydroxyphenyl)-. Currently, the metabolic origin of the VOCs remains unclear; however, several pathways might explain the decreasing trends observed. The results of this study demonstrate that there are specific VOC profiles associated with ALS and CSM patients that can be used to differentiate between the two. In addition, these metabolites could contribute to a better understanding of the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of ALS.
Integrated Microfluidic Isolation of Aptamers Using Electrophoretic Oligonucleotide Manipulation
Authors: Kim Jinho , Olsen Timothy R. , Zhu Jing , Hilton John P. , Yang Kyung-Ae , Pei Renjun , Stojanovic Milan N. , Lin Qiao
Published: May 2016

We present a microfluidic approach to integrated isolation of DNA aptamers via systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX). The approach employs a microbead-based protocol for the processes of affinity selection and amplification of target-binding oligonucleotides and an electrophoretic DNA manipulation scheme for the coupling of these processes, which are required to occur in different buffers. This achieves the full microfluidic integration of SELEX, thereby enabling highly efficient isolation of aptamers in drastically reduced times and with minimized consumption of biological material. The approach as such also offers broad target applicability by allowing selection of aptamers with respect to targets that are either surface-immobilized or solution-borne, potentially allowing aptamers to be developed as readily available affinity reagents for a wide range of targets. We demonstrate the utility of this approach on two different procedures, respectively for isolating aptamers against a surface-immobilized protein (immunoglobulin E) and a solution-phase small molecule (bisboronic acid in the presence of glucose). In both cases aptamer candidates were isolated in three rounds of SELEX within a total process time of approximately 10 hours.
Axillary radiotherapy: an alternative treatment option for adjuvant axillary management of breast cancer
Authors: Zhang Jie , Wang Chuan
Published: May 2016

Axillary lymph node dissection is standard management of axilla in invasive breast cancer. Radiotherapy also is important in local treatment. It is controversial as to whether axillary radiotherapy can displace axillary lymph node dissection. We performed a meta-analysis comparing axillary radiotherapy with axillary dissection. No significant difference was observed for disease free survival and overall survival between the radiation group and the dissection group. There was also no significant difference in either the axillary recurrence or the local recurrence between the two groups. But the axillary relapse rate in the radiation group was higher than in the surgery group at five-year follow-up while the local recurrence rate in the surgery group was higher than in the radiation group. A subgroup analysis showed that the difference in the axillary recurrence rate (RR = 0.20, P = 0.01) and local recurrence rate (RR = 4.7, P = 0.01) mainly appeared in the clinical node-positive subgroup. The edema rate in the surgery group was higher than in the radiation group (RR = 2.08, 95%: 1.71–2.54, P < 0.0001). We concluded that radiotherapy may be an alternative treatment option for adjuvant management of the axilla in selected sub-groups of patients.
A genetically-engineered von Willebrand disease type 2B mouse model displays defects in hemostasis and inflammation
Authors: Adam Frédéric , Casari Caterina , Prévost Nicolas , Kauskot Alexandre , Loubière Cécile , Legendre Paulette , Repérant Christelle , Baruch Dominique , Rosa Jean-Philippe , Bryckaert Marijke , de Groot Philip G. , Christophe Olivier D. , Lenting Peter J. , Denis Cécile V.
Published: May 2016

von Willebrand disease (VWD)-type 2B is characterized by gain-of-function mutations in the von Willebrand factor (VWF) A1-domain, leading to increased affinity for its platelet-receptor, glycoprotein Ibα. We engineered the first knock-in (KI) murine model for VWD-type 2B by introducing the p.V1316M mutation in murine VWF. Homozygous KI-mice replicated human VWD-type 2B with macrothrombocytopenia (platelet counts reduced by 55%, platelet volume increased by 44%), circulating platelet-aggregates and a severe bleeding tendency. Also, vessel occlusion was deficient in the FeCl3-induced thrombosis model. Platelet aggregation induced by thrombin or collagen was defective for KI-mice at all doses. KI-mice manifested a loss of high molecular weight multimers and increased multimer degradation. In a model of VWF-string formation, the number of platelets/string and string-lifetime were surprisingly enhanced in KI-mice, suggesting that proteolysis of VWF/p.V1316M is differentially regulated in the circulation versus the endothelial surface. Furthermore, we observed increased leukocyte recruitment during an inflammatory response induced by the reverse passive Arthus reaction. This points to an active role of VWF/p.V1316M in the exfiltration of leukocytes under inflammatory conditions. In conclusion, our genetically-engineered VWD-type 2B mice represent an original model to study the consequences of spontaneous VWF-platelet interactions and the physiopathology of this human disease.
A compact light-sheet microscope for the study of the mammalian central nervous system
Authors: Yang Zhengyi , Haslehurst Peter , Scott Suzanne , Emptage Nigel , Dholakia Kishan
Published: May 2016

Investigation of the transient processes integral to neuronal function demands rapid and high-resolution imaging techniques over a large field of view, which cannot be achieved with conventional scanning microscopes. Here we describe a compact light sheet fluorescence microscope, featuring a 45° inverted geometry and an integrated photolysis laser, that is optimized for applications in neuroscience, in particular fast imaging of sub-neuronal structures in mammalian brain slices. We demonstrate the utility of this design for three-dimensional morphological reconstruction, activation of a single synapse with localized photolysis, and fast imaging of neuronal Ca2+ signalling across a large field of view. The developed system opens up a host of novel applications for the neuroscience community.
Novel ZnO:Al contacts to CdZnTe for X- and gamma-ray detectors
Authors: Roy U. N. , Mundle R. M. , Camarda G. S. , Cui Y. , Gul R. , Hossain A. , Yang G. , Pradhan A. K. , James R. B.
Published: May 2016

CdZnTe (CZT) has made a significant impact as a material for room-temperature nuclear-radiation detectors due to its potential impact in applications related to nonproliferation, homeland security, medical imaging and gamma-ray telescopes. In all such applications, common metals, such as gold, platinum and indium, have been used as electrodes for fabricating the detectors. Because of the large mismatch in the thermal-expansion coefficient between the metal contacts and CZT, the contacts can undergo stress and mechanical degradation, which is the main cause for device instability over the long term. Here, we report for the first time on our use of Al-doped ZnO as the preferred electrode for such detectors. The material was selected because of its better contact properties compared to those of the metals commonly used today. Comparisons were conducted for the detector properties using different contacts and improvements in the performances of ZnO:Al-coated detectors are described in this paper. These studies show that Al:ZnO contacts to CZT radiation detectors offer the potential of becoming a transformative replacement for the common metallic contacts due to the dramatic improvements in the performance of detectors and improved long-term stability.
Two-Photon Enzymatic Probes Visualizing Sub-cellular/Deep-brain Caspase Activities in Neurodegenerative Models
Authors: Qian Linghui , Zhang Cheng-Wu , Mao Yanli , Li Lin , Gao Nengyue , Lim Kah-Leong , Xu Qing-Hua , Yao Shao Q.
Published: May 2016

Caspases work as a double-edged sword in maintaining cell homeostasis. Highly regulated caspase activities are essential during animal development, but dysregulation might lead to different diseases, e.g. extreme caspase activation is known to promote neurodegeneration. At present, visualization of caspase activation has mostly remained at the cellular level, in part due to a lack of cell-permeable imaging probes capable of direct, real-time investigations of endogenous caspase activities in deep tissues. Herein, we report a suite of two-photon, small molecule/peptide probes which enable sensitive and dynamic imaging of individual caspase activities in neurodegenerative models under physiological conditions. With no apparent toxicity and the ability of imaging endogenous caspases both in different subcellular organelles of mammalian cells and in brain tissues, these probes serve as complementary tools to conventional histological analysis. They should facilitate future explorations of caspases at molecular, cellular and organism levels and inspire development of novel two-photon probes against other enzymes.
Dynamic finite-element model for efficient modelling of electric currents in electroporated tissue
Authors: Langus J. , Kranjc M. , Kos B. , Šuštar T. , Miklavčič D.
Published: May 2016

In silico experiments (numerical simulations) are a valuable tool for non-invasive research of the influences of tissue properties, electrode placement and electric pulse delivery scenarios in the process of electroporation. The work described in this article was aimed at introducing time dependent effects into a finite element model developed specifically for electroporation. Reference measurements were made ex vivo on beef liver samples and experimental data were used both as an initial condition for simulation (applied pulse voltage) and as a reference value for numerical model calibration (measured pulse current). The developed numerical model is able to predict the time evolution of an electric pulse current within a 5% error over a broad range of applied pulse voltages, pulse durations and pulse repetition frequencies. Given the good agreement of the current flowing between the electrodes, we are confident that the results of our numerical model can be used both for detailed in silico research of electroporation mechanisms (giving researchers insight into time domain effects) and better treatment planning algorithms, which predict the outcome of treatment based on both spatial and temporal distributions of applied electric pulses.
Entanglement convertibility by sweeping through the quantum phases of the alternating bonds XXZ chain
Authors: Tzeng Yu-Chin , Dai Li , Chung Ming-Chiang , Amico Luigi , Kwek Leong-Chuan
Published: May 2016

We study the entanglement structure and the topological edge states of the ground state of the spin-1/2 XXZ model with bond alternation. We employ parity-density matrix renormalization group with periodic boundary conditions. The finite-size scaling of Rényi entropies S2 and S∞ are used to construct the phase diagram of the system. The phase diagram displays three possible phases: Haldane type (an example of symmetry protected topological ordered phases), Classical Dimer and Néel phases, the latter bounded by two continuous quantum phase transitions. The entanglement and non-locality in the ground state are studied and quantified by the entanglement convertibility. We found that, at small spatial scales, the ground state is not convertible within the topological Haldane dimer phase. The phenomenology we observe can be described in terms of correlations between edge states. We found that the entanglement spectrum also exhibits a distinctive response in the topological phase: the effective rank of the reduced density matrix displays a specifically large “susceptibility” in the topological phase. These findings support the idea that although the topological order in the ground state cannot be detected by local inspection, the ground state response at local scale can tell the topological phases apart from the non-topological phases.
Complete polarization characterization of single plasmonic nanoparticle enabled by a novel Dark-field Mueller matrix spectroscopy system
Authors: Chandel Shubham , Soni Jalpa , Ray Subir kumar , Das Anwesh , Ghosh Anirudha , Raj Satyabrata , Ghosh Nirmalya
Published: May 2016

Information on the polarization properties of scattered light from plasmonic systems are of paramount importance due to fundamental interest and potential applications. However, such studies are severely compromised due to the experimental difficulties in recording full polarization response of plasmonic nanostructures. Here, we report on a novel Mueller matrix spectroscopic system capable of acquiring complete polarization information from single isolated plasmonic nanoparticle/nanostructure. The outstanding issues pertaining to reliable measurements of full 4 × 4 spectroscopic scattering Mueller matrices from single nanoparticle/nanostructures are overcome by integrating an efficient Mueller matrix measurement scheme and a robust eigenvalue calibration method with a dark-field microscopic spectroscopy arrangement. Feasibility of quantitative Mueller matrix polarimetry and its potential utility is illustrated on a simple plasmonic system, that of gold nanorods. The demonstrated ability to record full polarization information over a broad wavelength range and to quantify the intrinsic plasmon polarimetry characteristics via Mueller matrix inverse analysis should lead to a novel route towards quantitative understanding, analysis/interpretation of a number of intricate plasmonic effects and may also prove useful towards development of polarization-controlled novel sensing schemes.
Selection of Reference Genes for Gene Expression Studies related to lung injury in a preterm lamb model
Authors: Pereira-Fantini Prue M. , Rajapaksa Anushi E. , Oakley Regina , Tingay David G.
Published: May 2016

Preterm newborns often require invasive support, however even brief periods of supported ventilation applied inappropriately to the lung can cause injury. Real-time quantitative reverse transcriptase-PCR (qPCR) has been extensively employed in studies of ventilation-induced lung injury with the reference gene 18S ribosomal RNA (18S RNA) most commonly employed as the internal control reference gene. Whilst the results of these studies depend on the stability of the reference gene employed, the use of 18S RNA has not been validated. In this study the expression profile of five candidate reference genes (18S RNA, ACTB, GAPDH, TOP1 and RPS29) in two geographical locations, was evaluated by dedicated algorithms, including geNorm, Normfinder, Bestkeeper and ΔCt method and the overall stability of these candidate genes determined (RefFinder). Secondary studies examined the influence of reference gene choice on the relative expression of two well-validated lung injury markers; EGR1 and IL1B. In the setting of the preterm lamb model of lung injury, RPS29 reference gene expression was influenced by tissue location; however we determined that individual ventilation strategies influence reference gene stability. Whilst 18S RNA is the most commonly employed reference gene in preterm lamb lung studies, our results suggest that GAPDH is a more suitable candidate.
Functional definition of BirA suggests a biotin utilization pathway in the zoonotic pathogen Streptococcus suis
Authors: Ye Huiyan , Cai Mingzhu , Zhang Huimin , Li Zhencui , Wen Ronghui , Feng Youjun
Published: May 2016

Biotin protein ligase is universal in three domains of life. The paradigm version of BPL is the Escherichia coli BirA that is also a repressor for the biotin biosynthesis pathway. Streptococcus suis, a leading bacterial agent for swine diseases, seems to be an increasingly-important opportunistic human pathogen. Unlike the scenario in E. coli, S. suis lacks the de novo biotin biosynthesis pathway. In contrast, it retains a bioY, a biotin transporter-encoding gene, indicating an alternative survival strategy for S. suis to scavenge biotin from its inhabiting niche. Here we report functional definition of S. suis birA homologue. The in vivo functions of the birA paralogue with only 23.6% identity to the counterpart of E. coli, was judged by its ability to complement the conditional lethal mutants of E. coli birA. The recombinant BirA protein of S. suis was overexpressed in E. coli, purified to homogeneity and verified with MS. Both cellulose TLC and MALDI-TOFF-MS assays demonstrated that the S. suis BirA protein catalyzed the biotinylation reaction of its acceptor biotin carboxyl carrier protein. EMSA assays confirmed binding of the bioY gene to the S. suis BirA. The data defined the first example of the bifunctional BirA ligase/repressor in Streptococcus.
Regulating Cell Apoptosis on Layer-by-Layer Assembled Multilayers of Photosensitizer-Coupled Polypeptides and Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Xing Ruirui , Jiao Tifeng , Ma Kai , Ma Guanghui , Möhwald Helmuth , Yan Xuehai
Published: May 2016

The design of advanced, nanostructured materials by layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly at the molecular level is of great interest because of the broad application of these materials in the biomedical field especially in regulating cell growth, adhesion, movement, differentiation and detachment. Here, we fabricated functional hybrid multilayer films by LbL assembly of biocompatible photosensitizer-coupled polypeptides and collagen-capped gold nanoparticles. The resulting multilayer film can well accommodate cells for adhesion, growth and proliferation. Most significantly, controlled cell apoptosis (detachment) and patterning of the multilayer film is achieved by a photochemical process yielding reactive oxygen species (ROS). Moreover, the site and shape of apoptotic cells can be controlled easily by adjusting the location and shape of the laser beam. The LbL assembled multilayer film with integration of functions provides an efficient platform for regulating cell growth and apoptosis (detachment).
Elevational sensitivity in an Asian ‘hotspot’: moth diversity across elevational gradients in tropical, sub-tropical and sub-alpine China
Authors: Ashton L. A. , Nakamura A. , Burwell C. J. , Tang Y. , Cao M. , Whitaker T. , Sun Z. , Huang H. , Kitching R. L.
Published: May 2016

South-western China is widely acknowledged as a biodiversity ‘hotspot’: there are high levels of diversity and endemism and many environments are under significant anthropogenic threats not least climate warming. Here, we explore diversity and compare response patterns of moth assemblages among three elevational gradients established within different climatic bioregions - tropical rain forest, sub-tropical evergreen broad-leaved forest and sub-alpine coniferous forest in Yunnan Province, China. We hypothesised that tropical assemblages would be more elevationally stratified than temperate assemblages and tropical species would be more elevationally restricted than those in the temperate zone. Contrary to our hypothesis, the moth fauna was more sensitive to elevational differences within the temperate transect, followed by sub-tropical and tropical transects. Moths in the cooler and more seasonal temperate sub-alpine gradient showed stronger elevation-decay beta diversity patterns and more species were restricted to particular elevational ranges. Our study suggests that moth assemblages are under threat from future climate change and sub-alpine rather than tropical faunas may be the most sensitive to climate change. These results improve our understanding of China’s biodiversity and can be used to monitor future changes to herbivore assemblages in a ‘hotspot’ of biodiversity.
A Single-Level Tunnel Model to Account for Electrical Transport through Single Molecule- and Self-Assembled Monolayer-based Junctions
Authors: Garrigues Alvar R. , Yuan Li , Wang Lejia , Mucciolo Eduardo R. , Thompon Damien , del Barco Enrique , Nijhuis Christian A.
Published: May 2016

We present a theoretical analysis aimed at understanding electrical conduction in molecular tunnel junctions. We focus on discussing the validity of coherent versus incoherent theoretical formulations for single-level tunneling to explain experimental results obtained under a wide range of experimental conditions, including measurements in individual molecules connecting the leads of electromigrated single-electron transistors and junctions of self-assembled monolayers (SAM) of molecules sandwiched between two macroscopic contacts. We show that the restriction of transport through a single level in solid state junctions (no solvent) makes coherent and incoherent tunneling formalisms indistinguishable when only one level participates in transport. Similar to Marcus relaxation processes in wet electrochemistry, the thermal broadening of the Fermi distribution describing the electronic occupation energies in the electrodes accounts for the exponential dependence of the tunneling current on temperature. We demonstrate that a single-level tunnel model satisfactorily explains experimental results obtained in three different molecular junctions (both single-molecule and SAM-based) formed by ferrocene-based molecules. Among other things, we use the model to map the electrostatic potential profile in EGaIn-based SAM junctions in which the ferrocene unit is placed at different positions within the molecule and we find that electrical screening gives rise to a strongly non-linear profile across the junction.
GCN5 modulates osteogenic differentiation of periodontal ligament stem cells through DKK1 acetylation in inflammatory microenvironment
Authors: Li Bei , Sun Jin , Dong Zhiwei , Xue Peng , He Xiaoning , Liao Li , Yuan Lin , Jin Yan
Published: May 2016

Periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) from periodontitis patients showed defective osteogenic differentiation. However, the mechanism of impaired osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs in inflammatory microenvironments is still unclear. In this study, we found that inflammation in the microenvironment resulted in downregulation of histone acetyltransferase GCN5 expression and lack of GCN5 caused decreased osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs. Previous study showed activated Wnt/β-cateinin pathway of PDLSCs resulted in defective osteogenic differentiation. Here we found knockdown of GCN5 decreased the expression of DKK1, an inhibitor of Wnt/β-cateinin pathway, thus activated Wnt/β-catenin pathway of PDLSCs. Mechanistically, GCN5 regulated DKK1 expression by acetylation of Histone H3 lysine 9 (H3K9) and Histone H3 lysine 14 (H3K14) at its promoter region. Interestingly, we found that in vivo injection of aspirin rescued the periodontitis of rats through inhibiting inflammation and upregulating GCN5 expression. Furthermore, aspirin treatment of PDLSCs upregulated GCN5 expression and increased osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs. In conclusion, GCN5 plays a protective role in periodontitis through acetylation of DKK1 and applying drugs targeting GCN5, such as aspirin, could be a new approach for periodontitis treatment.
Genetic manipulation of iron biomineralization enhances MR relaxivity in a ferritin-M6A chimeric complex
Authors: Radoul Marina , Lewin Limor , Cohen Batya , Oren Roni , Popov Stanislav , Davidov Geula , Vandsburger Moriel H. , Harmelin Alon , Bitton Ronit , Greneche Jean-Marc , Neeman Michal , Zarivach Raz
Published: May 2016

Ferritin has gained significant attention as a potential reporter gene for in vivo imaging by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). However, due to the ferritin ferrihydrite core, the relaxivity and sensitivity for detection of native ferritin is relatively low. We report here on a novel chimeric magneto-ferritin reporter gene – ferritin-M6A – in which the magnetite binding peptide from the magnetotactic bacteria magnetosome-associated Mms6 protein was fused to the C-terminal of murine h-ferritin. Biophysical experiments showed that purified ferritin-M6A assembled into a stable protein cage with the M6A protruding into the cage core, enabling magnetite biomineralisation. Ferritin-M6A-expressing C6-glioma cells showed enhanced (per iron) r2 relaxivity. MRI in vivo studies of ferritin-M6A-expressing tumour xenografts showed enhanced R2 relaxation rate in the central hypoxic region of the tumours. Such enhanced relaxivity would increase the sensitivity of ferritin as a reporter gene for non-invasive in vivo MRI-monitoring of cell delivery and differentiation in cellular or gene-based therapies.
Honokiol suppresses TNF-α-induced neutrophil adhesion on cerebral endothelial cells by disrupting polyubiquitination and degradation of IκBα
Authors: Chen Po-Jen , Wang Yu-Ling , Kuo Liang-Mou , Lin Chwan-Fwu , Chen Chun-Yu , Tsai Yung-Fong , Shen Jiann-Jong , Hwang Tsong-Long
Published: May 2016

Adhesion molecules expressed on cerebral endothelial cells (ECs) mediate leukocyte recruitment and play a significant role in cerebral inflammation. Increased levels of adhesion molecules on the EC surface induce leukocyte infiltration into inflammatory areas and are thus hallmarkers of inflammation. Honokiol, isolated from the Chinese medicinal herb Magnolia officinalis, has various pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory effects, yet the nature of honokiol targeting molecules remains to be revealed. Here, we investigated the inhibitory effect of honokiol on neutrophil adhesion and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) expression, which underlie its molecular target and mechanisms for inactivating nuclear factor κ enhancer binding protein (NF-κB) in mouse cerebral ECs. Honokiol inhibited tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)-induced neutrophil adhesion and VCAM-1 gene expression in cerebral ECs. The inflammatory transcription factor NF-κB was downregulated by honokiol. Honokiol significantly blocked TNF-α–induced NF-κB p65 nuclear translocation and degradation of the proteasome-dependent inhibitor of NF-κB α (IκBα). From docking model prediction, honokiol directly targeted the ubiquitin–ubiquitin interface of Lys48-linked polychains. Moreover, honokiol prevented the TNF-α-induced Lys48-linked polyubiquitination, including IκBα-polyubiquitin interaction. Honokiol has protective anti-inflammatory effects on TNF-α-induced neutrophil adhesion and VCAM-1 gene expression in cerebral ECs, at least in part by directly inhibiting ubiquitination-mediated IκBα degradation and then preventing NF-κB nuclear translocation.
Ancient Human Migration after Out-of-Africa
Authors: Shriner Daniel , Tekola-Ayele Fasil , Adeyemo Adebowale , Rotimi Charles N.
Published: May 2016

The serial founder model of modern human origins predicts that the phylogeny of ancestries exhibits bifurcating, tree-like behavior. Here, we tested this prediction using three methods designed to investigate gene flow in autosome-wide genotype data from 3,528 unrelated individuals from 163 global samples. Specifically, we investigated whether Cushitic ancestry has an East African or Middle Eastern origin. We found evidence for non-tree-like behavior in the form of four migration events. First, we found that Cushitic ancestry is a mixture of ancestries closely related to Arabian ancestry and Nilo-Saharan or Omotic ancestry. We found evidence for additional migration events in the histories of: 1) Indian and Arabian ancestries, 2) Kalash ancestry and 3) Native American and Northern European ancestries. These findings, based on analysis of ancestry of present-day humans, reveal migration in the distant past and provide new insights into human history.
Galectin-3 Enhances Migration of Minature Pig Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells Through Inhibition of RhoA-GTP Activity
Authors: Gao Qian , Xia Ying , Liu Lan , Huang Lei , Liu Yang , Zhang Xue , Xu Kui , Wei Jingliang , Hu Yanqing , Mu Yulian , Li Kui
Published: May 2016

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) are used in tissue engineering because of their migration characters. However, BM-MSCs have limitations in terms of reaching injuries and self-renewal. Therefore, enhancement of BM-MSC migration is important for therapeutic applications. Here, we assessed whether galectin-3 (Gal-3) increases the migration of minature pig BM-MSCs. Gal-3 was knocked down by short hairpin RNA (shRNA) or overexpressed using a lentiviral vector in Wuzhishan minature pig BM-MSCs. Proliferation and migration assays showed that knockdown of Gal-3 impaired BM-MSC proliferation and migration, whereas Gal-3 overexpression promoted these behaviors. RhoA-GTP activity was upregulated in Gal-3 shRNA-transfected BM-MSCs, while Rac-1- and Cdc42-GTP showed no changes. Western blotting indicated downregulation of p-AKT (ser473) and p-Erk1/2 after serum starvation for 12 h in Gal-3-knockdown BM-MSCs. p-AKT (ser473) expression was upregulated after serum starvation for 6 h and p-Erk1/2 expression was unchanged in Gal-3-overexpressing BM-MSCs. Treatment with C3 transferase or Y27632 enhanced migration, whereas Gal-3 knockdown impaired migration in treated cells. These results demonstrate that Gal-3 may enhance BM-MSC migration, mainly through inhibiting RhoA-GTP activity, increasing p-AKT (ser473) expression and regulating p-Erk1/2 levels. Our study suggests a novel function of Gal-3 in regulating minature pig BM-MSC migration, which may be beneficial for therapeutic applications.
Elucidating the Origin of the Attractive Force among Hydrophilic Macroions
Authors: Liu Zhuonan , Liu Tianbo , Tsige Mesfin
Published: May 2016

Coarse-grained simulation approach is applied to provide a general understanding of various soluble, hydrophilic macroionic solutions, especially the strong attractions among the like-charged soluble macroions and the consequent spontaneous, reversible formation of blackberry structures with tunable sizes. This model captures essential molecular details of the macroions and their interactions in polar solvents. Results using this model provide consistent conclusions to the experimental observations, from the nature of the attractive force among macroions (counterion-mediated attraction), to the blackberry formation mechanism. The conclusions can be applied to various macroionic solutions from inorganic molecular clusters to dendrimers and biomacromolecules.
Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Distinct Gene Expression Profiles in Eosinophilic and Noneosinophilic Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps
Authors: Wang Weiqing , Gao Zhiqiang , Wang Huaishan , Li Taisheng , He Wei , Lv Wei , Zhang Jianmin
Published: May 2016

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP), one of the most prevalent chronic diseases, is characterized by persistent inflammation of sinonasal mucosa. However, the pathogenesis of CRSwNP remains unclear. Here, we performed next-generation RNA sequencing and a comprehensive bioinformatics analyses to characterize the transcriptome profiles, including mRNAs and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), in patients with eosinophilic and noneosinophilic CRSwNP. A total of 1917 novel lncRNAs and 280 known lncRNAs were identified. We showed eosinophilic CRSwNP (ECRSwNP) and noneosinophilic CRSwNP (non-ECRSwNP) display distinct transcriptome profiles. We identified crucial pathways, including inflammatory, immune response and extracellular microenvironment, connected to the pathogenetic mechanism of CRSwNP. We also discovered key lncRNAs differentially expressed, including lncRNA XLOC_010280, which regulates CCL18 and eosinophilic inflammation. The qRT-PCR and in situ RNA hybridization results verified the key differentially expressed genes. The feature of distinct transcriptomes between ECRSwNP and non-ECRSwNP suggests the necessity to develop specific biomarkers and personalized therapeutic strategies. Our findings lay a solid foundation for subsequent functional studies of mRNAs and lncRNAs as diagnostic and therapeutic targets in CRSwNP by providing a candidate reservoir.
Genetically engineered pre-microRNA-34a prodrug suppresses orthotopic osteosarcoma xenograft tumor growth via the induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest
Authors: Zhao Yong , Tu Mei-Juan , Wang Wei-Peng , Qiu Jing-Xin , Yu Ai-Xi , Yu Ai-Ming
Published: May 2016

Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common primary malignant bone tumor in children and microRNA-34a (miR-34a) replacement therapy represents a new treatment strategy. This study was to define the effectiveness and safety profiles of a novel bioengineered miR-34a prodrug in orthotopic OS xenograft tumor mouse model. Highly purified pre-miR-34a prodrug significantly inhibited the proliferation of human 143B and MG-63 cells in a dose dependent manner and to much greater degrees than controls, which was attributed to induction of apoptosis and G2 cell cycle arrest. Inhibition of OS cell growth and invasion were associated with release of high levels of mature miR-34a from pre-miR-34a prodrug and consequently reduction of protein levels of many miR-34a target genes including SIRT1, BCL2, c-MET and CDK6. Furthermore, intravenous administration of in vivo-jetPEI formulated miR-34a prodrug significantly reduced OS tumor growth in orthotopic xenograft mouse models. In addition, mouse blood chemistry profiles indicated that therapeutic doses of bioengineered miR-34a prodrug were well tolerated in these animals. The results demonstrated that bioengineered miR-34a prodrug was effective to control OS tumor growth which involved the induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, supporting the development of bioengineered RNAs as a novel class of large molecule therapeutic agents.
Identification of chilling-responsive microRNAs and their targets in vegetable soybean (Glycine max L.)
Authors: Xu Shengchun , Liu Na , Mao Weihua , Hu Qizan , Wang Guofu , Gong Yaming
Published: May 2016

Chilling stress is a major factor limiting the yield and quality of vegetable soybean (Glycine max L.) on a global scale. In the present study, systematic identification and functional analysis of miRNAs under chilling stress were carried out to clarify the molecular mechanism of chilling resistance. Two independent small RNA libraries from leaves of soybean were constructed and sequenced with the high-throughput Illumina Solexa system. A total of 434 known miRNAs and 3 novel miRNAs were identified. Thirty-five miRNAs were verified by qRT-PCR analysis. Furthermore, their gene targets were identified via high-throughput degradome sequencing. A total of 898 transcripts were targeted by 54 miRNA families attributed to five categories. More importantly, we identified 51 miRNAs differentially expressed between chilling stress and control conditions. The targets of these miRNAs were enriched in oxidation-reduction, signal transduction and metabolic process functional categories. Our qRT-PCR analysis confirmed a negative relationship among the miRNAs and their targets under chilling stress. Our work thus provides comprehensive molecular evidence supporting the involvement of miRNAs in chilling-stress responses in vegetable soybean.
Novel chitosan/diclofenac coatings on medical grade stainless steel for hip replacement applications
Authors: Finšgar Matjaž , Uzunalić Amra Perva , Stergar Janja , Gradišnik Lidija , Maver Uroš
Published: May 2016

Corrosion resistance, biocompatibility, improved osteointegration, as well the prevention of inflammation and pain are the most desired characteristics of hip replacement implants. In this study we introduce a novel multi-layered coating on AISI 316LVM stainless steel that shows promise with regard to all mentioned characteristics. The coating is prepared from alternating layers of the biocompatible polysaccharide chitosan and the non-steroid anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), diclofenac. Electrochemical methods were employed to characterize the corrosion behavior of coated and uncoated samples in physiological solution. It is shown that these coatings improve corrosion resistance. It was also found that these coatings release the incorporated drug in controlled, multi-mechanism manner. Adding additional layers on top of the as-prepared samples, has potential for further tailoring of the release profile and increasing the drug dose. Biocompatibility was proven on human-derived osteoblasts in several experiments. Only viable cells were found on the sample surface after incubation of the samples with the same cell line. This novel coating could prove important for prolongation of the application potential of steel-based hip replacements, which are these days often replaced by more expensive ceramic or other metal alloys.
NMR absolute shielding scale and nuclear magnetic dipole moment of 207Pb
Authors: Adrjan Bożena , Makulski Włodzimierz , Jackowski Karol , Demissie Taye B. , Ruud Kenneth , Antušek Andrej , Jaszuński Michał
Published: May 2016

A new absolute shielding scale is proposed for 207Pb nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy.
Correlation between the acid–base properties of the La2O3 catalyst and its methane reactivity
Authors: Chu Changqing , Zhao Yonghui , Li Shenggang , Sun Yuhan
Published: May 2016

The linear relationship between CH4 activation energy and CO2 chemisorption energy illuminates the high OCM activity of strongly basic La2O3 catalysts.
Reshaping CuO on silica to generate a highly active Cu/SiO2catalyst
Authors: Hou Xiaoning , Qing Shaojun , Liu Yajie , Xi Hongjuan , Wang Tianfu , Wang Xiang , Gao Zhixian
Published: May 2016

Reduction–oxidation treatment [RO] is effective to reshape CuO within a confined area on SiO2support, forming highly dispersed nano CuO particles. The “shape” of CuO can be memorized during the activation process, resulting in the formation of a specific Cu metal and thus demonstrating enhanced catalytic activity.
High yield conversion of cellulosic biomass into 5-hydroxymethylfurfural and a study of the reaction kinetics of cellulose to HMF conversion in a biphasic system
Authors: Atanda Luqman , Konarova Muxina , Ma Qing , Mukundan Swathi , Shrotri Abhijit , Beltramini Jorge
Published: May 2016

Biphasic dehydration of cellulosic biomass into remarkable yield of HMF can be achieved via mechanocatalysis and fractionation treatment.
Diffusion of single molecular and macromolecular probes during the free radical bulk polymerization of MMA – towards a better understanding of the Trommsdorff effect on a molecular level
Authors: Nölle Jan Martin , Primpke Sebastian , Müllen Klaus , Vana Philipp , Wöll Dominik
Published: May 2016

Diffusional heterogeneities of molecular and macromolecular probes were studied during the radical bulk polymerization of methyl methacrylate using fluorescence microscopy methods.
Hierarchical forest-like photoelectrodes with ZnO nanoleaves on a metal dendrite array
Authors: Cheng Li , Chang Qing , Chang Yu , Zhang Nannan , Tao Changyuan , Wang Zhaona , Fan Xing
Published: May 2016

Hierarchical forest-like photoelectrodes were prepared by assembling nano-ZnO on an array of micro-metal dendrites, aiming to artificially construct an efficient photo-electrochemical system similar to plants in a forest, with photons harvested by the crown-like photoanodes in the sunshine, and synthetic reactions driven by the root-like electrode in the shadow.
Highly efficient UV-Vis-infrared catalytic purification of benzene on CeMnxOy/TiO2 nanocomposite, caused by its high thermocatalytic activity and strong absorption in the full solar spectrum region
Authors: Liu Huihui , Li Yuanzhi , Yang Yi , Mao Mingyang , Zeng Min , Lan Lan , Yun Li , Zhao Xiujian
Published: May 2016

The CeMnxOy/TiO2 nanocomposite exhibits highly efficient catalytic activity for benzene abatement with UV-visible-infrared irradiation.
A H5BW12O40–polyvinyl alcohol polymer electrolyte and its application in solid supercapacitors
Authors: Gao Han , Lian Keryn
Published: May 2016

A polymer electrolyte comprised of H5BW12O40 (BWA) and cross-linked polyvinyl alcohol (BWA–XLPVA) has been developed and characterized for solid supercapacitors.
A composite material with room temperature shape processability and optical repair
Authors: Li Guo , Zhang Hu , Fortin Daniel , Fan Weizheng , Xia Hesheng , Zhao Yue
Published: May 2016

The room temperature programmability of a shape memory composite material enables the optical repair of deformation damage under ambient conditions.
Nine-ring angular fused biscarbazoloanthracene displaying a solid state based excimer emission suitable for OLED application
Authors: Baryshnikov Gleb V. , Gawrys Pawel , Ivaniuk Khrystyna , Witulski Bernhard , Whitby Richard J. , Al-Muhammad Ayham , Minaev Boris , Cherpak Vladyslav , Stakhira Pavlo , Volyniuk Dmytro , Wiosna-Salyga Gabriela , Luszczynska Beata , Lazauskas Algirdas , Tamulevicius Sigitas , Grazulevicius Juozas V.
Published: May 2016

For the first time a fused polyaromatic compound is used for a single-layer single component WOLED.
Size-discrimination of volatile organic compounds utilizing gallium diiminate by luminescent chromism of crystallization-induced emission via encapsulation-triggered crystal–crystal transition
Authors: Ito Shunichiro , Hirose Amane , Yamaguchi Madoka , Tanaka Kazuo , Chujo Yoshiki
Published: May 2016

This manuscript describes the role of multi-functional gallium diiminate in photochemistry, crystal structural transition and molecular recognition.