bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Precipitation of binary quasicrystals along dislocations
Authors: Yang Zhiqing , Zhang Lifeng , Chisholm Matthew F. , Zhou Xinzhe , Ye Hengqiang , Pennycook Stephen J.
Published: February 2018

Dislocations in crystals naturally break the symmetry of the bulk, introducing local atomic configurations with symmetries such as fivefold rings. But dislocations do not usually nucleate aperiodic structure along their length. Here we demonstrate the formation of extended binary quasicrystalline precipitates with Penrose-like random-tiling structures, beginning with chemical ordering within the pentagonal structure at cores of prismatic dislocations in Mg–Zn alloys. Atomic resolution observations indicate that icosahedral chains centered along [0001] pillars of Zn interstitial atoms are formed templated by the fivefold rings at dislocation cores. They subsequently form columns of rhombic and elongated hexagonal tiles parallel to the dislocation lines. Quasicrystalline precipitates are formed by random tiling of these rhombic and hexagonal tiles. Such precipitation may impact dislocation glide and alloy strength.
Publisher Correction: Associations of statin use with motor performance and myalgia may be modified by 25-hydroxyvitamin D: findings from a British birth cohort
Authors: Sharma Nikhil , Cooper Rachel , Kuh Diana , Shah Imran
Published: February 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has been fixed in the paper.
Quantitative Imaging of Regional Aerosol Deposition, Lung Ventilation and Morphology by Synchrotron Radiation CT
Authors: Porra L. , Dégrugilliers L. , Broche L. , Albu G. , Strengell S. , Suhonen H. , Fodor G. H. , Peták F. , Suortti P. , Habre W. , Sovijärvi A. R. A. , Bayat S.
Published: February 2018

To understand the determinants of inhaled aerosol particle distribution and targeting in the lung, knowledge of regional deposition, lung morphology and regional ventilation, is crucial. No single imaging modality allows the acquisition of all such data together. Here we assessed the feasibility of dual-energy synchrotron radiation imaging to this end in anesthetized rabbits; both in normal lung (n = 6) and following methacholine (MCH)-induced bronchoconstriction (n = 6), a model of asthma. We used K-edge subtraction CT (KES) imaging to quantitatively map the regional deposition of iodine-containing aerosol particles. Morphological and regional ventilation images were obtained, followed by quantitative regional iodine deposition maps, after 5 and 10 minutes of aerosol administration. Iodine deposition was markedly inhomogeneous both in normal lung and after induced bronchoconstrition. Deposition was significantly reduced in the MCH group at both time points, with a strong dependency on inspiratory flow in both conditions (R2 = 0.71; p < 0.0001). We demonstrate for the first time, the feasibility of KES CT for quantitative imaging of lung deposition of aerosol particles, regional ventilation and morphology. Since these are among the main factors determining lung aerosol deposition, we expect this imaging approach to bring new contributions to the understanding of lung aerosol delivery, targeting, and ultimately biological efficacy.
Single amino acid in V2 encoded by TYLCV is responsible for its self-interaction, aggregates and pathogenicity
Authors: Zhao Wenhao , Ji Yinghua , Wu Shuhua , Ma Xiaofang , Li Shuo , Sun Feng , Cheng Zhaobang , Zhou Yijun , Fan Yongjian
Published: February 2018

The V2 protein encoded by Begomovirus is essential for virus infection and is involved in multiple functions, such as virus movement and suppression of the host defence response. In this study, we reported that V2 encoded by the Tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV), which is one of the most devastating tomato-infecting begomoviruses, could interact with itself and a S71A mutation of V2 (V2S71A) abolished its self-interaction. Fluorescence results showed that V2 localized primarily in the cytoplasm and around the nucleus. Site-directed mutagenesis V2S71A had the similar subcellular localization, but V2S71A formed fewer large aggregates in the cytoplasm compared to wild-type V2, whereas the level of aggregates came to a similar after treatment with MG132, which indicates that the S71A mutation might affect 26S proteasome-mediated degradation of V2 aggregates. Meanwhile, heterologous expression of V2S71A from a Potato virus X vector induced mild symptoms compared to wild-type V2, delay of virus infection associated with mild symptoms was observed in plants inoculated with TYLCV-S71A, which indicates that the amino acid on position 71 is also involved in the pathogenicity of V2. To the best of our knowledge, this report is the first to state that the S71A mutation of V2 encoded by TYLCV affects the self-interaction, aggregate formation and pathogenicity of V2.
The cytoprotective role of DJ-1 and p45 NFE2 against human primary alveolar type II cell injury and emphysema
Authors: Tan Li Hui , Bahmed Karim , Lin Chih-Ru , Marchetti Nathaniel , Bolla Sudhir , Criner Gerard J. , Kelsen Steven , Madesh Muniswamy , Kosmider Beata
Published: February 2018

Emphysema is characterized by irreversibly enlarged airspaces and destruction of alveolar walls. One of the factors contributing to this disease pathogenesis is an elevation in extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation in the lung. Alveolar type II (ATII) cells produce and secrete pulmonary surfactants and proliferate to restore the epithelium after damage. We isolated ATII cells from control non-smokers, smokers and patients with emphysema to determine the role of NFE2 (nuclear factor, erythroid-derived 2). NFE2 is a heterodimer composed of two subunits, a 45 kDa (p45 NFE2) and 18 kDa (p18 NFE2) polypeptides. Low expression of p45 NFE2 in patients with emphysema correlated with a high ECM degradation. Moreover, we found that NFE2 knockdown increased cell death induced by cigarette smoke extract. We also studied the cross talk between p45 NFE2 and DJ-1. DJ-1 protein is a redox-sensitive chaperone that protects cells from oxidative stress. We detected that cigarette smoke significantly increased p45 NFE2 levels in DJ-1 KO mice compared to wild-type mice. Our results indicate that p45 NFE2 expression is induced by exposure to cigarette smoke, has a cytoprotective activity against cell injury, and its downregulation in human primary ATII cells may contribute to emphysema pathogenesis.
A mouse model of miR-96, miR-182 and miR-183 misexpression implicates miRNAs in cochlear cell fate and homeostasis
Authors: Weston Michael D. , Tarang Shikha , Pierce Marsha L. , Pyakurel Umesh , Rocha-Sanchez Sonia M. , McGee JoAnn , Walsh Edward J. , Soukup Garrett A.
Published: February 2018

Germline mutations in Mir96, one of three co-expressed polycistronic miRNA genes (Mir96, Mir182, Mir183), cause hereditary hearing loss in humans and mice. Transgenic FVB/NCrl- Tg(GFAP-Mir183,Mir96,Mir182)MDW1 mice (Tg1MDW), which overexpress this neurosensory-specific miRNA cluster in the inner ear, were developed as a model system to identify, in the aggregate, target genes and biologic processes regulated by the miR-183 cluster. Histological assessments demonstrate Tg1MDW/1MDW homozygotes have a modest increase in cochlear inner hair cells (IHCs). Affymetrix mRNA microarray data analysis revealed that downregulated genes in P5 Tg1MDW/1MDW cochlea are statistically enriched for evolutionarily conserved predicted miR-96, miR-182 or miR-183 target sites. ABR and DPOAE tests from 18 days to 3 months of age revealed that Tg1MDW/1MDW homozygotes develop progressive neurosensory hearing loss that correlates with histologic assessments showing massive losses of both IHCs and outer hair cells (OHCs). This mammalian miRNA misexpression model demonstrates a potency and specificity of cochlear homeostasis for one of the dozens of endogenously co-expressed, evolutionally conserved, small non-protein coding miRNA families. It should be a valuable tool to predict and elucidate miRNA-regulated genes and integrated functional gene expression networks that significantly influence neurosensory cell differentiation, maturation and homeostasis.
Amyloid-β with isomerized Asp7 cytotoxicity is coupled to protein phosphorylation
Authors: Zatsepina O. G. , Kechko O. I. , Mitkevich V. A. , Kozin S. A. , Yurinskaya M. M. , Vinokurov M. G. , Serebryakova M. V. , Rezvykh A. P. , Evgen’ev M. B. , Makarov A. A.
Published: February 2018

Neuronal dysfunction and loss associated with the accumulation of amyloid-β (Aβ) in the form of extracellular amyloid plaques and hyperphosphorylated tau in the form of intraneuronal neurofibrillary tangles represent key features of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Amyloid plaques found in the brains of AD patients are predominantly composed of Aβ42 and its multiple chemically or structurally modified isoforms. Recently, we demonstrated that Aβ42 with isomerised Asp7 (isoAβ42) which is one of the most abundant Aβ isoform in plaques, exhibited high neurotoxicity in human neuronal cells. Here, we show that, in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells, the administration of synthetic isoAβ42 rather than intact Aβ42 resulted in a significantly higher level of protein phosphorylation, especially the phosphorylation of tau, tubulins, and matrin 3. IsoAβ42 induced a drastic reduction of tau protein levels. Our data demonstrate, for the first time, that isoAβ42, being to date the only known synthetic Aβ species to cause AD-like amyloidogenesis in an animal AD model, induced cell death by disabling structural proteins in a manner characteristic of that observed in the neurons of AD patients. The data emphasize an important role of isoAβ42 in AD progression and provide possible neurotoxicity paths for this particular isoform.
Solution processable and optically switchable 1D photonic structures
Authors: Paternò Giuseppe M. , Iseppon Chiara , D’Altri Alessia , Fasanotti Carlo , Merati Giulia , Randi Mattia , Desii Andrea , Pogna Eva A. A. , Viola Daniele , Cerullo Giulio , Scotognella Francesco , Kriegel Ilka
Published: February 2018

We report the first demonstration of a solution processable, optically switchable 1D photonic crystal which incorporates phototunable doped metal oxide nanocrystals. The resulting device structure shows a dual optical response with the photonic bandgap covering the visible spectral range and the plasmon resonance of the doped metal oxide the near infrared. By means of a facile photodoping process, we tuned the plasmonic response and switched effectively the optical properties of the photonic crystal, translating the effect from the near infrared to the visible. The ultrafast bandgap pumping induces a signal change in the region of the photonic stopband, with recovery times of several picoseconds, providing a step toward the ultrafast optical switching. Optical modeling uncovers the importance of a complete modeling of the variations of the dielectric function of the photodoped material, including the high frequency region of the Drude response which is responsible for the strong switching in the visible after photodoping. Our device configuration offers unprecedented tunability due to flexibility in device design, covering a wavelength range from the visible to the near infrared. Our findings indicate a new protocol to modify the optical response of photonic devices by optical triggers only.
An integrated microfluidic device for the sorting of yeast cells using image processing
Authors: Yu Bo Yang , Elbuken Caglar , Shen Chong , Huissoon Jan Paul , Ren Carolyn L.
Published: February 2018

The process of detection and separation of yeast cells based on their morphological characteristics is critical to the understanding of cell division cycles, which is of vital importance to the understanding of some diseases such as cancer. The traditional process of manual detection is usually tedious and inconsistent. This paper presents a microfluidic device integrated with microvalves for fluid control for the sorting of yeast cells using image processing algorithms and confirmation based on their fluorescent tag. The proposed device is completely automated, low cost and easy to implement in an academic research setting. Design details of the integrated microfluidic system are highlighted in this paper, along with experimental validation. Real time cell sorting was demonstrated with a cell detection rate of 12 cells per minute.
Controlling and modelling the wetting properties of III-V semiconductor surfaces using re-entrant nanostructures
Authors: Ng Wing H. , Lu Yao , Liu Huiyun , Carmalt Claire J. , Parkin Ivan P. , Kenyon Anthony J.
Published: February 2018

Inorganic semiconductors such as III-V materials are very important in our everyday life as they are used for manufacturing optoelectronic and microelectronic components with important applications span from energy harvesting to telecommunications. In some applications, these components are required to operate in harsh environments. In these cases, having waterproofing capability is essential. Here we demonstrate design and control of the wettability of indium phosphide based multilayer material (InP/InGaAs/InP) using re-entrant structures fabricated by a fast electron beam lithography technique. This patterning technique enabled us to fabricate highly uniform nanostructure arrays with at least one order of magnitude shorter patterning times compared to conventional electron beam lithography methods. We reduced the surface contact fraction significantly such that the water droplets may be completely removed from our nanostructured surface. We predicted the wettability of our patterned surface by modelling the adhesion energies between the water droplet and both the patterned surface and the dispensing needle. This is very useful for the development of coating-free waterproof optoelectronic and microelectronic components where the coating may hinder the performance of such devices and cause problems with semiconductor fabrication compatibility.
Non-empirical identification of trigger sites in heterogeneous processes using persistent homology
Authors: Kimura Masao , Obayashi Ippei , Takeichi Yasuo , Murao Reiko , Hiraoka Yasuaki
Published: February 2018

Macroscopic phenomena, such as fracture, corrosion, and degradation of materials, are associated with various reactions which progress heterogeneously. Thus, material properties are generally determined not by their averaged characteristics but by specific features in heterogeneity (or ‘trigger sites’) of phases, chemical states, etc., where the key reactions that dictate macroscopic properties initiate and propagate. Therefore, the identification of trigger sites is crucial for controlling macroscopic properties. However, this is a challenging task. Previous studies have attempted to identify trigger sites based on the knowledge of materials science derived from experimental data (‘empirical approach’). However, this approach becomes impractical when little is known about the reaction or when large multi-dimensional datasets, such as those with multiscale heterogeneities in time and/or space, are considered. Here, we introduce a new persistent homology approach for identifying trigger sites and apply it to the heterogeneous reduction of iron ore sinters. Four types of trigger sites, ‘hourglass’-shaped calcium ferrites and ‘island’- shaped iron oxides, were determined to initiate crack formation using only mapping data depicting the heterogeneities of phases and cracks without prior mechanistic information. The identification of these trigger sites can provide a design rule for reducing mechanical degradation during reduction.
Phospholipase D functional ablation has a protective effect in an Alzheimer’s disease Caenorhabditis elegans model
Authors: Bravo Francisca Vaz , Da Silva Jorge , Chan Robin Barry , Di Paolo Gilbert , Teixeira-Castro Andreia , Oliveira Tiago Gil
Published: February 2018

Phospholipase D (PLD) is a key player in the modulation of multiple aspects of cell physiology and has been proposed as a therapeutic target for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Here, we characterize a PLD mutant, pld-1, using the Caenorhabditis elegans animal model. We show that pld-1 animals present decreased phosphatidic acid levels, that PLD is the only source of total PLD activity and that pld-1 animals are more sensitive to the acute effects of ethanol. We further show that PLD is not essential for survival or for the normal performance in a battery of behavioral tests. Interestingly, pld-1 animals present both increased size and lipid stores levels. While ablation of PLD has no important effect in worm behavior, its ablation in an AD-like model that overexpresses amyloid-beta (Aβ), markedly improves various phenotypes such as motor tasks, prevents susceptibility to a proconvulsivant drug, has a protective effect upon serotonin treatment and reverts the biometric changes in the Aβ animals, leading to the normalization of the worm body size. Overall, this work proposes the C. elegans model as a relevant tool to study the functions of PLD and further supports the notion that PLD has a significant role in neurodegeneration.
Alleviation of drought stress in pulse crops with ACC deaminase producing rhizobacteria isolated from acidic soil of Northeast India
Authors: Saikia Juthika , Sarma Rupak K. , Dhandia Rajashree , Yadav Archana , Bharali Rupjyoti , Gupta Vijai K. , Saikia Ratul
Published: February 2018

The agricultural crops are often affected by the scarcity of fresh water. Seasonal drought is a major constraint on Northeast Indian agriculture. Almost 80% of the agricultural land in this region is acidic and facing severe drought during the winter period. Apart from classical breeding and transgenic approaches, the application of plant-growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) is an alternative strategy for improving plant fitness under stressful conditions. The 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate (ACC) deaminase-producing PGPB offer drought stress tolerance by regulating plant ethylene levels. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the consortium effect of three ACC-deaminase producing rhizobacteria – Ochrobactrum pseudogrignonenseRJ12, Pseudomonas sp.RJ15 and Bacillus subtilisRJ46 on drought stress alleviation in Vigna mungo L. and Pisum sativum L. Consortium treatment significantly increase seed germination percentage, root length, shoot length, and dry weight of treated plants. An elevated production of reactive oxygen species scavenging enzymes and cellular osmolytes; higher leaf chlorophyll content; increase in relative water content and root recovery intension were observed after consortium treatment in comparison with the uninoculated plants under drought conditions. The consortium treatment decreased the ACC accumulation and down-regulated ACC-oxidase gene expression. This consortium could be an effective bio-formulator for crop health improvement in drought-affected acidic agricultural fields.
Understanding the high l-valine production in Corynebacterium glutamicum VWB-1 using transcriptomics and proteomics
Authors: Zhang Hailing , Li Yanyan , Wang Chenhui , Wang Xiaoyuan
Published: February 2018

Toward the elucidation of the advanced mechanism of l-valine production by Corynebacterium glutamicum, a highly developed industrial strain VWB-1 was analyzed, employing the combination of transcriptomics and proteomics methods. The transcriptional level of 1155 genes and expression abundance of 96 proteins were changed significantly by the transcriptome and proteome comparison of VWB-1 and ATCC 13869. It was indicated that the key genes involved in the biosynthesis of l-valine, ilvBN, ilvC, ilvD, ilvE were up-regulated in VWB-1, which together made prominent contributions in improving the carbon flow towards l-valine. The l-leucine and l-isoleucine synthesis ability were weakened according to the down-regulation of leuB and ilvA. The up-regulation of the branched chain amino acid transporter genes brnFE promoted the l-valine secretion capability of VWB-1. The NADPH and ATP generation ability of VWB-1 were strengthened through the up-regulation of the genes involved in phosphate pentose pathway and TCA pathway. Pyruvate accumulation was achieved through the weakening of the l-lactate, acetate and l-alanine pathways. The up-regulation of the genes coding for elongation factors and ribosomal proteins were beneficial for l-valine synthesis in C. glutamicum. All information acquired were useful for the genome breeding of better industrial l-valine producing strains.
Coordinate and redox interactions of epinephrine with ferric and ferrous iron at physiological pH
Authors: Korać Jelena , Stanković Dalibor M. , Stanić Marina , Bajuk-Bogdanović Danica , Žižić Milan , Pristov Jelena Bogdanović , Grgurić-Šipka Sanja , Popović-Bijelić Ana , Spasojević Ivan
Published: February 2018

Coordinate and redox interactions of epinephrine (Epi) with iron at physiological pH are essential for understanding two very different phenomena – the detrimental effects of chronic stress on the cardiovascular system and the cross-linking of catecholamine-rich biopolymers and frameworks. Here we show that Epi and Fe3+form stable high-spin complexes in the 1:1 or 3:1 stoichiometry, depending on the Epi/Fe3+concentration ratio (low or high). Oxygen atoms on the catechol ring represent the sites of coordinate bond formation within physiologically relevant bidentate 1:1 complex. Redox properties of Epi are slightly impacted by Fe3+. On the other hand, Epi and Fe2+form a complex that acts as a strong reducing agent, which leads to the production of hydrogen peroxide via O2reduction, and to a facilitated formation of the Epi–Fe3+complexes. Epi is not oxidized in this process,i.e. Fe2+is not an electron shuttle, but the electron donor. Epi-catalyzed oxidation of Fe2+represents a plausible chemical basis of stress-related damage to heart cells. In addition, our results support the previous findings on the interactions of catecholamine moieties in polymers with iron and provide a novel strategy for improving the efficiency of cross-linking.
Linear peptidomimetics as potent antagonists of Staphylococcus aureus agr quorum sensing
Authors: Karathanasi Georgia , Bojer Martin Saxtorph , Baldry Mara , Johannessen Bárdur Andréson , Wolff Sanne , Greco Ines , Kilstrup Mogens , Hansen Paul Robert , Ingmer Hanne
Published: February 2018

Staphylococcus aureus is an important pathogen causing infections in humans and animals. Increasing problems with antimicrobial resistance has prompted the development of alternative treatment strategies, including antivirulence approaches targeting virulence regulation such as the agr quorum sensing system. agr is naturally induced by cyclic auto-inducing peptides (AIPs) binding to the AgrC receptor and cyclic peptide inhibitors have been identified competing with AIP binding to AgrC. Here, we disclose that small, linear peptidomimetics can act as specific and potent inhibitors of the S. aureus agr system via intercepting AIP-AgrC signal interaction at low micromolar concentrations. The corresponding linear peptide did not have this ability. This is the first report of a linear peptide-like molecule that interferes with agr activation by competitive binding to AgrC. Prospectively, these peptidomimetics may be valuable starting scaffolds for the development of new inhibitors of staphylococcal quorum sensing and virulence gene expression.
GourdBase: a genome-centered multi-omics database for the bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria), an economically important cucurbit crop
Authors: Wang Ying , Xu Pei , Wu Xiaohua , Wu Xinyi , Wang Baogen , Huang Yunping , Hu Yaowen , Lin Jiandong , Lu Zhongfu , Li Guojing
Published: February 2018

GourdBase is an integrative data platform for the bottle gourd to examine its multifarious intuitive morphology and annotated genome. GourdBase consists of six main modules that store and interlink multi-omic data: the genome (with transcriptomic data integrated) module, the phenome module, the markers/QTLs module, the maps (genetic, physical and comparative) module, the cultivars module, and the publications module. These modules provide access to various type of data including the annotated reference genome sequence, gene models, transcriptomic data from various tissues, physical and comparative genome maps, molecular markers in different types, phenotypic data for featuring traits including fruit shape and umami taste, and quantitative trait loci (QTLs) that underlie these traits. GourdBase is intuitive, user-friendly and interlinked and is designed to allow researchers, breeders and trained farmers to browse, search and fetch information on interests and assist in genomics-driven studies and breeding. The knowledge base and web interface can be accessed at http://www.gourdbase.cn/.
Body temperature measurement in mice during acute illness: implantable temperature transponder versus surface infrared thermometry
Authors: Mei Jie , Riedel Nico , Grittner Ulrike , Endres Matthias , Banneke Stefanie , Emmrich Julius Valentin
Published: February 2018

Body temperature is a valuable parameter in determining the wellbeing of laboratory animals. However, using body temperature to refine humane endpoints during acute illness generally lacks comprehensiveness and exposes to inter-observer bias. Here we compared two methods to assess body temperature in mice, namely implanted radio frequency identification (RFID) temperature transponders (method 1) to non-contact infrared thermometry (method 2) in 435 mice for up to 7 days during normothermia and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) endotoxin-induced hypothermia. There was excellent agreement between core and surface temperature as determined by method 1 and 2, respectively, whereas the intra- and inter-subject variation was higher for method 2. Nevertheless, using machine learning algorithms to determine temperature-based endpoints both methods had excellent accuracy in predicting death as an outcome event. Therefore, less expensive and cumbersome non-contact infrared thermometry can serve as a reliable alternative for implantable transponder-based systems for hypothermic responses, although requiring standardization between experimenters.
Multiscale dynamical network mechanisms underlying aging of an online organism from birth to death
Authors: Zheng M. , Cao Z. , Vorobyeva Y. , Manrique P. , Song C. , Johnson N. F.
Published: February 2018

We present the continuous-time evolution of an online organism network from birth to death which crosses all organizational and temporal scales, from individual components through to the mesoscopic and entire system scale. These continuous-time data reveal a lifespan driven by punctuated, real-time co-evolution of the structural and functional networks. Aging sees these structural and functional networks gradually diverge in terms of their small-worldness and eventually their connectivity. Dying emerges as an extended process associated with the formation of large but disjoint functional sub-networks together with an increasingly detached core. Our mathematical model quantifies the very different impacts that interventions will have on the overall lifetime, period of initial growth, peak of potency, and duration of old age, depending on when and how they are administered. In addition to their direct relevance to online extremism, our findings may offer insight into aging in other network systems of comparable complexity for which extensive in vivo data is not yet available.
The Mechanisms of Carnosol in Chemoprevention of Ultraviolet B-Light-Induced Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer Formation
Authors: Tong Lingying , Wu Shiyong
Published: February 2018

Carnosol is a natural compound extracted from rosemary and sage, which has been demonstrated to have anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and anti-cancer properties. In this report, we evaluated the therapeutic potential and elucidated the potential mechanism of action of carnosol in chemoprevention of ultraviolet B-light (UVB) induced non-melanoma skin cancer formation. Our data indicated that carnosol could partially reduce UVB-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) elevation and thus reduce DNA damage. It could also reduce UVB-induced formation of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CDP) in keratinocytes possibly through its ability in absorbing UVB radiation. In addition, carnosol could inhibit the UVB-induced activation of NF-κB and also reduce UVB-induced transformation of keratinocytes. Taken together, the results indicate the role of carnosol as a potential chemopreventive agent upon UVB radiation.
A database of chlorophyll a in Australian waters
Authors: Davies Claire H. , Ajani Penelope , Armbrecht Linda , Atkins Natalia , Baird Mark E. , Beard Jason , Bonham Pru , Burford Michele , Clementson Lesley , Coad Peter , Crawford Christine , Dela-Cruz Jocelyn , Doblin Martina A. , Edgar Steven , Eriksen Ruth , Everett Jason D. , Furnas Miles , Harrison Daniel P. , Hassler Christel , Henschke Natasha , Hoenner Xavier , Ingleton Tim , Jameson Ian , Keesing John , Leterme Sophie C. , James McLaughlin M , Miller Margaret , Moffatt David , Moss Andrew , Nayar Sasi , Patten Nicole L. , Patten Renee , Pausina Sarah A. , Proctor Roger , Raes Eric , Robb Malcolm , Rothlisberg Peter , Saeck Emily A. , Scanes Peter , Suthers Iain M. , Swadling Kerrie M. , Talbot Samantha , Thompson Peter , Thomson Paul G. , Uribe-Palomino Julian , van Ruth Paul , Waite Anya M. , Wright Simon , Richardson Anthony J.
Published: February 2018

Chlorophyll a is the most commonly used indicator of phytoplankton biomass in the marine environment. It is relatively simple and cost effective to measure when compared to phytoplankton abundance and is thus routinely included in many surveys. Here we collate 173, 333 records of chlorophyll a collected since 1965 from Australian waters gathered from researchers on regular coastal monitoring surveys and ocean voyages into a single repository. This dataset includes the chlorophyll a values as measured from samples analysed using spectrophotometry, fluorometry and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The Australian Chlorophyll a database is freely available through the Australian Ocean Data Network portal (https://portal.aodn.org.au/). These data can be used in isolation as an index of phytoplankton biomass or in combination with other data to provide insight into water quality, ecosystem state, and relationships with other trophic levels such as zooplankton or fish.
High resolution visualization of the redox activity of Li2O2 in non-aqueous media: conformal layer vs. toroid structure
Authors: E Sharel P. , Kang Minkyung , Wilson Paul , Meng Lingcong , Perry David , Basile Andrew , Unwin Patrick R.
Published: February 2018

A strong relationship between the surface structure and the redox activity of Li2O2 is visualized directly using scanning electrochemical cell microscopy, employing a dual-barrel nanopipette containing a unique gel polymer electrolyte.
The effect of solvation and temperature on the adsorption of small organic molecules on calcite
Authors: Budi A. , Stipp S. L. S. , Andersson M. P.
Published: February 2018

The effect of multicomponent mixture on small organic molecule adsorption on calcite at nonzero temperature was investigated.
On the photocatalytic cycle of water splitting with small manganese oxides and the roles of water clusters as direct sources of oxygen molecules
Authors: Yamamoto Kentaro , Takatsuka Kazuo
Published: February 2018

A study on the photocatalytic cycle of water splitting and coupled proton electron-wavepacket transfer (CPEWT) as key processes of the mechanism.
Interfacial electrostatics of poly(vinylamine hydrochloride), poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride), poly-l-lysine, and poly-l-arginine interacting with lipid bilayers
Authors: McGeachy A. C. , Dalchand N. , Caudill E. R. , Li T. , Doğangün M. , Olenick L. L. , Chang H. , Pedersen J. A. , Geiger F. M.
Published: February 2018

Charge densities of cationic polymers adsorbed to lipid bilayers are estimated from SHG spectroscopy and QCM-D measurements.
Promiscuous hydrogen in polymerising plasmas
Authors: Saboohi Solmaz , Griesser Hans J. , Coad Bryan R. , Short Robert D. , Michelmore Andrew
Published: February 2018

The multiple roles hydrogen plays in depositing plasmas is investigated by addition of H2O and D2O to ethyltrimethylacetate plasmas.
The quest for determining one-electron redox potentials of azulene-1-carbonitriles by calculation
Authors: Ree Nicolai , Andersen Cecilie Lindholm , Kilde Martin Drøhse , Hammerich Ole , Nielsen Mogens Brøndsted , Mikkelsen Kurt V.
Published: February 2018

Accurate predictions of redox potentials through a simple methodology employing methods that are all implemented in standard electronic structure packages.
Multidirectional-charge-transfer urchin-type Mo-doped W18O49 nanostructures on CdS nanorods for enhanced photocatalytic hydrogen evolution
Authors: Bhavani P. , Praveen Kumar D. , Jeong Seonghyun , Kim Eun Hwa , Park Hanbit , Hong Sangyeob , Gopannagari Madhusudana , Amaranatha Reddy D. , Song Jae Kyu , Kim Tae Kyu
Published: February 2018

The urchin shaped Mo doped W18O49 greatly enhances the charge transfer and photocatalytic efficiencies.
Ni-phyllosilicate structure derived Ni–SiO2–MgO catalysts for bi-reforming applications: acidity, basicity and thermal stability
Authors: Ashok J. , Bian Z. , Wang Z. , Kawi S.
Published: February 2018

In this work, Ni–SiO2–MgO materials synthesized via Ni-phyllosilicate (PS) intermediates were explored for bi-reforming of methane (BRM) reaction.
Fractionation of the more active extracts of Geranium molle L.: a relationship between their phenolic profile and biological activity
Authors: Graça V. C. , Dias Maria Inês , Barros Lillian , Calhelha Ricardo C. , Santos P. F. , Ferreira Isabel C. F. R.
Published: February 2018

Active extracts of Geranium molle L. were fractionated and the fractions were evaluated for their antioxidant activity and cytotoxicity against several human tumor cell lines, and their phenolic profile was determined.
Carbon coated nickel–cobalt bimetallic sulfides hollow dodecahedrons for a supercapacitor with enhanced electrochemical performance
Authors: Huang Teng , Song Xue-Zhi , Chen Xi , Chen Xiao-Lei , Sun Fei-Fei , Su Qiao-Feng , Li Ling-Dong , Tan Zhenquan
Published: February 2018

Bimetallic sulfides coated by carbon hollow dodecahedrons were synthesized from bimetallic ZIFs as precursors and exhibited enhanced electrochemical performance as supercapacitors.
Photo-induced resonance energy transfer and nonlinear optical response in ball-type phthalocyanine conjugated to semiconductor and graphene quantum dots
Authors: Nwaji Njemuwa , Achadu Ojodomo J. , Nyokong Tebello
Published: February 2018

Ball-type zinc and gallium phthalocyanines were covalently linked to graphene and semiconductor quantum dots resulting in enhanced triplet parameters and nonlinear optical performance.
Lower ammoniation activation energy of CoN nanosheets by Mn doping with superior energy storage performance for secondary ion batteries
Authors: Zhu Lin , Chen Ziliang , Song Yun , Wang Pei , Jiang Yingchang , Jiang Le , Zhou Yong-Ning , Hu Linfeng
Published: February 2018

Mn0.33Co0.67N nanosheets were reported as a novel anode material for LIBs with a high reversible capacity close to 900 mA h g−1 after 150 cycles at a current density of 500 mA g−1, which is superior to 749 mA h g−1 of undoped CoN due to the enhancement of regeneration of Co–N bonds.
Single-mode surface plasmon distributed feedback lasers
Authors: Karami Keshmarzi Elham , Tait R. Niall , Berini Pierre
Published: February 2018

Single-mode surface plasmon distributed feedback (DFB) lasers are realized in the near infrared using a two-dimensional non-uniform long-range surface plasmon polariton structure.
Near ultra-violet to mid-visible band gap tuning of mixed cation RbxCs1−xPbX3 (X = Cl or Br) perovskite nanoparticles
Authors: Amgar Daniel , Binyamin Tal , Uvarov Vladimir , Etgar Lioz
Published: February 2018

This paper reports on a mixed-cation system of RbxCs1−xPbX3 (where X = Cl or Br) nanoparticles. Interestingly an attempt to synthesize Cl- and Br-based nanoparticles with high Rb+ content was successful, although possessing low tolerance factors.
Effect of phosphine ligand on the optical absorption/emission properties of platinum-containing conjugated polymers
Authors: Miyagi Yu , Sotani Taichi , Yajima Tatsuo , Sano Natsuhiro , Sanda Fumio
Published: February 2018

The λmax values of platinum-containing poly(phenyleneethynylene)s with aryl groups bonded to P were higher than those with alkyl groups.
A novel N-methylimidazolium-based poly(ionic liquid) to recover trace tetrachloroaurate from aqueous solution based on multiple supramolecular interactions
Authors: Xu Zi-Xuan , Zhao Yong-Lu , Liang Wen-Ying , Zhou Pan-Pan , Yang Ying
Published: February 2018

Two novel ionic liquids, [Bzmim]Cl and [Bzmim][AuCl4], were synthesized to recover Au(iii) in aqueous solution.
Design of electret polypropylene melt blown air filtration material containing nucleating agent for effective PM2.5 capture
Authors: Zhang Haifeng , Liu Jinxin , Zhang Xing , Huang Chen , Jin Xiangyu
Published: February 2018

Fluffy electret polypropylene/magnesium stearate materials may become good candidates for personal protective filtration materials against PM2.5.
Blood-based immunoassay of tau proteins for early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease using surface plasmon resonance fiber sensors
Authors: Vu Nu Truong Thi , Tran Nhu Hoa Thi , Nam Eunjoo , Nguyen Tan Tai , Yoon Won Jung , Cho Sungbo , Kim Jungsuk , Chang Keun-A. , Ju Heongkyu
Published: February 2018

Blood-based early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease using a plasmonic fiber sensor that detects immunoreaction of tau proteins.
2-Aryl-3-(arylideneamino)-1,2-dihydroquinazoline-4(3H)-ones as inhibitors of cholinesterases and self-induced β-amyloid (Aβ) aggregation: biological evaluations and mechanistic insights from molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Sukumaran Sri Devi , Faraj Fadhil Lafta , Lee Vannajan Sanghiran , Othman Rozana , Buckle Michael J. C.
Published: February 2018

A series of 2-aryl-3-(arylideneamino)-1,2-dihydroquinazoline-4(3H)-ones were evaluated as inhibitors of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) and self-induced β-amyloid (Aβ) aggregation.
Improved filtration performance and antifouling properties of polyethersulfone ultrafiltration membranes by blending with carboxylic acid functionalized polysulfone
Authors: Wu Xing , Xie Zongli , Wang Huanting , Zhao Chen , Ng Derrick , Zhang Kaisong
Published: February 2018

Ultrafiltration membranes with improved filtration performance and antifouling properties have been synthesized through blending polyethersulfone with carboxylic acid functionalized polysulfone.
Metabolism of five diterpenoid lactones from Dioscorea bulbifera tubers in zebrafish
Authors: Shi Wei , Ling Jie , Jiang Li-Long , Zhao Dong-Sheng , Wang Ling-Li , Wu Zi-Tian , Li Ping , Wei Ying-Jie , Li Hui-Jun
Published: February 2018

In the present study, an UHPLC-QTOF MS method was employed to characterize the metabolic profiles of DIOA, DIOC, DIOF, DIOG and DIOM in zebrafish biological samples. The metabolic pathways of these compounds and the fragmentation patterns of the metabolites were proposed.
Oxidative coupling of methane at elevated pressures: reactor concept and its validation
Authors: Albrecht M. , Rodemerck U. , Linke D. , Kondratenko E. V.
Published: February 2018

A novel quartz reactor has been developed for heterogeneously catalysed reactions at high pressures and temperatures.
Organocatalytic controlled/living ring-opening polymerization of cyclotrisiloxanes initiated by water with strong organic base catalysts
Authors: Fuchise Keita , Igarashi Masayasu , Sato Kazuhiko , Shimada Shigeru
Published: February 2018

Organocatalytic controlled/living ring-opening polymerization of cyclotrisiloxanes using water as an initiator and strong organic bases as catalysts produced a variety of linear polysiloxanes with narrow polydispersity and well-defined symmetric structures.
The kinetics of chirality assignment in catalytic single-walled carbon nanotube growth and the routes towards selective growth
Authors: Xu Ziwei , Qiu Lu , Ding Feng
Published: February 2018

The routes towards carbon nanotube's chirality control during growth was revealed by kinetic modelling.
Quercetin nanoparticles with enhanced bioavailability as multifunctional agents toward amyloid induced neurotoxicity
Authors: Han Qiusen , Wang Xinhuan , Cai Shuangfei , Liu Xueliang , Zhang Yufei , Yang Lin , Wang Chen , Yang Rong
Published: February 2018

Quercetin nanoparticles fabricated by pulsed laser ablation showed enhanced bioavailability and multifunctional effects on amyloid-β mediated neurotoxicity.
Utilizing formation of dye aggregates with aggregation-induced emission characteristics for enhancement of two-photon absorption
Authors: Justyniarski Adrian , Zaręba Jan K. , Hańczyc Piotr , Fita Piotr , Chołuj Marta , Zaleśny Robert , Samoć Marek
Published: February 2018

Femtosecond Z-scan measurements of aggregates of a quadrupolar D-π-D dye, provide direct evidence that aggregation of this AIE chromophore leads to a sizeable enhancement of the intrinsic two-photon absorption cross section.
Incorporation of an intact dimeric Zr12 oxo cluster from a molecular precursor in a new zirconium metal–organic framework
Authors: Bezrukov Andrey A. , Törnroos Karl W. , Le Roux Erwan , Dietzel Pascal D. C.
Published: February 2018

A dimeric Zr12 oxo cluster was used as new molecular building block in construction of metal–organic frameworks utilizing the precursor approach.
Polyaromatic molecular tubes: from strategic synthesis to host functions
Authors: Yazaki Kohei , Catti Lorenzo , Yoshizawa Michito
Published: February 2018

This feature article describes the recent progress in the synthesis and application of short tubular molecules bearing multiple (≥3) polyaromatic rings (e.g., anthracene, pyrene, chrysene, anthanthrenylene, and HBC). These polyaromatic tubes display characteristic properties such as strong fluorescent emission, a selective molecular binding ability, efficient host–guest energy transfer and open–closed structural transformations.
Platinum microelectrodes on gadolinia doped ceria single crystals – bulk properties and electrode kinetics
Authors: Neumeier Jonas J. , Elm Matthias T. , Luerßen Bjoern , Janek Jürgen
Published: February 2018

Gadolinia doped ceria single crystals were characterized in microelectrode geometry enabling characterization of material properties and interfacial kinetics independently.
Charging nanoparticles: increased binding of Gd@C82(OH)22 derivatives to human MMP-9
Authors: Chen Serena H. , Kang Seung-gu , Luo Judong , Zhou Ruhong
Published: February 2018

Unlike most matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) inhibitors, which target the conserved catalytic zinc site, Gd@C82(OH)22 indirectly inhibits MMP-9 activity by binding at the ligand specificity S1′ loop.
Superior adsorption of 3D nanoporous architectures for Ni(ii) ions adsorption using polyvinyl alcohol as cross-linking agent and adsorption conveyor
Authors: Wang Haibo , Wang Wei , Zhao Yufen , Xu Zhiwei , Chen Lei , Zhao Lihuan , Tian Xu , Sun Wanying
Published: February 2018

In this study, we report a large-scale and low cost approach for the synthesis of three-dimensional (3D) polyvinyl alcohol/carbon nanotubes nanoporous architecture using self-assembly method.
Substitutedl-tryptophan-l-phenyllactic acid conjugates produced by an endophytic fungusAspergillus aculeatususing an OSMAC approach
Authors: Wang Hao , Eze Peter M. , Höfert Simon-Patrick , Janiak Christoph , Hartmann Rudolf , Okoye Festus B. C. , Esimone Charles O. , Orfali Raha S. , Dai Haofu , Liu Zhen , Proksch Peter
Published: February 2018

Indole-derived alkaloids fromAspergillus aculeatususing an OSMAC approach.
Antiacetylcholinesterase triterpenes from the fruits of Cimicifuga yunnanensis
Authors: Nian Yin , Lu Ni-Hong , Liu Xiao-Ling , Li Da-Shan , Zhou Lin , Qiu Ming-Hua
Published: February 2018

Two novel cycloartane triterpenes, cimyunnin E (1) and cimicifine B (2), were purified from the fruits of Cimicifuga yunnanensis. Significantly, these two compounds showed potent anti-AChE effects and neurotrophic activities.
Sodium borohydride-nickel chloride hexahydrate in EtOH/PEG-400 as an efficient and recyclable catalytic system for the reduction of alkenes
Authors: Li Kaoxue , Liu Chuanchao , Wang Kang , Ren Yang , Li Fahui
Published: February 2018

An efficient, safe and one-pot convenient catalytic system has been developed for the reduction of alkenes using NaBH4–NiCl2·6H2O in EtOH/PEG-400 under mild conditions.
XBphos-Rh: a halogen-bond assembled supramolecular catalyst
Authors: Carreras Lucas , Serrano-Torné Marta , van Leeuwen Piet W. N. M. , Vidal-Ferran Anton
Published: February 2018

XBphos-Rh constitutes the first example of halogen bonding as the driving force behind the assembly of a transition-metal catalyst for hydroborations.
Chiral probes for α1-AGP reporting by species-specific induced circularly polarised luminescence
Authors: Shuvaev Sergey , Suturina Elizaveta A. , Mason Kevin , Parker David
Published: February 2018

Luminescence spectroscopy has been used to monitor the selective and reversible binding of pH sensitive, macrocyclic lanthanide complexes,[LnL1], to the serum protein α1-AGP, whose concentration can vary significantly in response to inflammatory processes.
High energy and high voltage integrated photo-electrochemical double layer capacitor
Authors: Scalia Alberto , Varzi Alberto , Lamberti Andrea , Tresso Elena , Jeong Sangsik , Jacob Timo , Passerini Stefano
Published: February 2018

Harvesting–storage device composed of a dye-sensitized solar cell-based module and a high voltage supercapacitor with impressive discharge capacity (0.1 mA h cm−2).
Exceeding 6500 cycles for LiFePO4/Li metal batteries through understanding pulsed charging protocols
Authors: García Grecia , Dieckhöfer Stefan , Schuhmann Wolfgang , Ventosa Edgar
Published: February 2018

The cycle life of a Li metal battery composed of Li metal and LiFePO4 is drastically prolonged from about 700 to above 6700 cycles by using simple pulsed charging protocols.
Combined therapies with nanostructured carbon materials: there is room still available at the bottom
Authors: Biagiotti Giacomo , Fedeli Stefano , Tuci Giulia , Luconi Lapo , Giambastiani Giuliano , Brandi Alberto , Pisaneschi Federica , Cicchi Stefano , Paoli Paolo
Published: February 2018

Combining therapies on a sheet of carbon is possible!
Mn2+and Mn4+red phosphors: synthesis, luminescence and applications in WLEDs. A review
Authors: Zhou Qiang , Dolgov Leonid , Srivastava Alok M. , Zhou Lei , Wang Zhengliang , Shi Jianxin , Dramićanin Miroslav D. , Brik Mikhail G. , Wu Mingmei
Published: February 2018

Transition-metal activated phosphors are an important family of luminescent materials that can produce white light with an outstanding color rendering index and correlated color temperature for use in light-emitting diodes.
Bilingualism and Procedural Learning in Typically Developing Children and Children With Language Impairment
Authors: Park Jisook , Miller Carol A. , Rosenbaum David A. , Sanjeevan Teenu , van Hell Janet G. , Weiss Daniel J. , Mainela-Arnold Elina
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate whether dual language experience affects procedural learning ability in typically developing children and in children with specific language impairment (SLI).

Method

We examined procedural learning in monolingual and bilingual school-aged children (ages 8–12 years) with and without SLI. The typically developing children (35 monolinguals, 24 bilinguals) and the children with SLI (17 monolinguals, 10 bilinguals) completed a serial reaction time task.

Results

The typically developing monolinguals and bilinguals exhibited equivalent sequential learning effects, but neither group with SLI exhibited learning of sequential patterns on the serial reaction time task.

Conclusion

Procedural learning does not appear to be modified by language experience, supporting the notion that it is a child-intrinsic language learning mechanism that is minimally malleable to experience.