bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metallurgical investigation on fourth century BCE silver jewellery of two hoards from Samaria
Authors: Ashkenazi D. , Gitler H. , Stern A. , Tal O.
Published: January 2017

A fourth century BCE silver jewellery collection, which is part of two hoards of Samarian coins (the Samaria and Nablus Hoards), was studied by non-destructive analyses. The collection, which consists of pendants, rings, beads and earrings, had been examined by visual testing, multi-focal microscopy and SEM-EDS analysis. In order to enhance our knowledge of past technologies of silver jewellery production, we developed a metallurgical methodology based on the chemical composition of the joints and bulk. The results show that all artefacts are made of silver containing a small percentage of copper. Higher copper concentrations were measured in the joining regions. Our research indicates that the manufacturing of the jewellery from both hoards involved similar techniques, including casting, cutting, hammering, bending, granulating and joining methods, indicating that the artefacts were made by trained silversmiths. Although the burial date of the Samaria Hoard – 352 BCE – is some 21 years earlier than that of the Nablus Hoard – circa 331 BCE, a noted continuity in the local production technology is apparent in the analysed items. This information provides better understanding of the technological abilities in the late Persian-period province of Samaria and bears implications on the local silver coins produced in the region.
IFN-γ regulates human dental pulp stem cells behavior via NF-κB and MAPK signaling
Authors: He Xinyao , Jiang Wenkai , Luo Zhirong , Qu Tiejun , Wang Zhihua , Liu Ningning , Zhang Yaqing , Cooper Paul R. , He Wenxi
Published: January 2017

During caries, dental pulp expresses a range of pro-inflammatory cytokines in response to the infectious challenge. Interferon gamma (IFN-γ) is a dimerized soluble cytokine, which is critical for immune responses. Previous study has demonstrated that IFN-γ at relative high concentration (100 ng/mL) treatment improved the impaired dentinogenic and immunosuppressive regulatory functions of disease-derived dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs). However, little is known about the regulatory effects of IFN-γ at relative low concentration on healthy DPSC behavior (including proliferation, migration, and multiple-potential differentiation). Here we demonstrate that IFN-γ at relatively low concentrations (0.5 ng/mL) promoted the proliferation and migration of DPSCs, but abrogated odonto/osteogenic differentiation. Additionally, we identified that NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways are both involved in the process of IFN-γ-regulated odonto/osteogenic differentiation of DPSCs. DPSCs treated with IFN-γ and supplemented with pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC, an NF-κB inhibitor) or SB203580 (a MAPK inhibitor) showed significantly improved potential for odonto/osteogenic differentiation of DPSCs both in vivo and in vitro. These data provide important insight into the regulatory effects of IFN-γ on the biological behavior of DPSCs and indicate a promising therapeutic strategy for dentin/pulp tissue engineering in future endodontic treatment.
Structural diversity of anti-pancreatic cancer capsimycins identified in mangrove-derived Streptomyces xiamenensis 318 and post-modification via a novel cytochrome P450 monooxygenase
Authors: Yu He-Lin , Jiang Shu-Heng , Bu Xu-Liang , Wang Jia-Hua , Weng Jing-Yi , Yang Xiao-Mei , He Kun-Yan , Zhang Zhi-Gang , Ao Ping , Xu Jun , Xu Min-Juan
Published: January 2017

Polycyclic tetramate macrolactams (PTMs) were identified as distinct secondary metabolites of the mangrove-derived Streptomyces xiamenensis 318. Together with three known compounds—ikarugamycin (1), capsimycin (2) and capsimycin B (3)—two new compounds, capsimycin C (4) with trans-diols and capsimycin D (5) with trans-configurations at C-13/C-14, have been identified. The absolute configurations of the tert/tert-diols moiety was determined in 4 by NMR spectroscopic analysis, CD spectral comparisons and semi-synthetic method. The post-modification mechanism of the carbocyclic ring at C-14/C-13 of compound 1 in the biosynthesis of an important intermediate 3 was investigated. A putative cytochrome P450 superfamily gene, SXIM_40690 (ikaD), which was proximally localized to the ikarugamycin biosynthetic pathway, was characterized. In vivo gene inactivation and complementation experiment confirmed that IkaD catalysed the epoxide-ring formation reaction and further hydroxylation of ethyl side chain to form capsimycin G (3′). Binding affinities and kinetic parameters for the interactions between ikarugamycin (1) and capsimycin B (3) with IkaD were measured with Surface Plasmon Resonance. The intermediate compound 3′ was isolated and identified as 30-hydroxyl-capsimycin B. The caspimycins 2 and 3, were transferred to methoxyl derivatives, 6 and 7, under acidic and heating conditions. Compounds 1–3 exhibited anti-proliferative activities against pancreatic carcinoma with IC50 values of 1.30–3.37 μM.
Global identification of microRNAs associated with chlorantraniliprole resistance in diamondback moth Plutella xylostella (L.)
Authors: Zhu Bin , Li Xiuxia , Liu Ying , Gao Xiwu , Liang Pei
Published: January 2017

The diamondback moth (DBM), Plutella xylostella (L.), is one of the most serious cruciferous pests and has developed high resistance to most insecticides, including chlorantraniliprole. Previous studies have reported several protein-coding genes that involved in chlorantraniliprole resistance, but research on resistance mechanisms at the post-transcription level is still limited. In this study, a global screen of microRNAs (miRNAs) associated with chlorantraniliprole resistance in P. xylostella was performed. The small RNA libraries for a susceptible (CHS) and two chlorantraniliprole resistant strains (CHR, ZZ) were constructed and sequenced, and a total of 199 known and 30 novel miRNAs were identified. Among them, 23 miRNAs were differentially expressed between CHR and CHS, and 90 miRNAs were differentially expressed between ZZ and CHS, of which 11 differentially expressed miRNAs were identified in both CHR and ZZ. Using miRanda and RNAhybrid, a total of 1,411 target mRNAs from 102 differentially expressed miRNAs were predicted, including mRNAs in several groups of detoxification enzymes. The expression of several differentially expressed miRNAs and their potential targets was validated by qRT-PCR. The results may provide important clues for further study of the mechanisms of miRNA-mediated chlorantraniliprole resistance in DBM and other target insects.
Lithium Accumulates in Neurogenic Brain Regions as Revealed by High Resolution Ion Imaging
Authors: Zanni Giulia , Michno Wojciech , Di Martino Elena , Tjärnlund-Wolf Anna , Pettersson Jean , Mason Charlotte Elizabeth , Hellspong Gustaf , Blomgren Klas , Hanrieder Jörg
Published: January 2017

Lithium (Li) is a potent mood stabilizer and displays neuroprotective and neurogenic properties. Despite extensive investigations, the mechanisms of action have not been fully elucidated, especially in the juvenile, developing brain. Here we characterized lithium distribution in the juvenile mouse brain during 28 days of continuous treatment that result in clinically relevant serum concentrations. By using Time-of-Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry- (ToF-SIMS) based imaging we were able to delineate temporospatial lithium profile throughout the brain and concurrent distribution of endogenous lipids with high chemical specificity and spatial resolution. We found that Li accumulated in neurogenic regions and investigated the effects on hippocampal neurogenesis. Lithium increased proliferation, as judged by Ki67-immunoreactivity, but did not alter the number of doublecortin-positive neuroblasts at the end of the treatment period. Moreover, ToF-SIMS revealed a steady depletion of sphingomyelin in white matter regions during 28d Li-treatment, particularly in the olfactory bulb. In contrast, cortical levels of cholesterol and choline increased over time in Li-treated mice. This is the first study describing ToF-SIMS imaging for probing the brain-wide accumulation of supplemented Li in situ. The findings demonstrate that this technique is a powerful approach for investigating the distribution and effects of neuroprotective agents in the brain.
Novel G9 rotavirus strains co-circulate in children and pigs, Taiwan
Authors: Wu Fang-Tzy , Bányai Krisztián , Jiang Baoming , Liu Luke Tzu-Chi , Marton Szilvia , Huang Yhu-Chering , Huang Li-Min , Liao Ming-Hui , Hsiung Chao A.
Published: January 2017

Molecular epidemiologic studies collecting information of the spatiotemporal distribution of rotavirus VP7 (G) and VP4 (P) genotypes have shown evidence for the increasing global importance of genotype G9 rotaviruses in humans and pigs. Sequence comparison of the VP7 gene of G9 strains identified different lineages to prevail in the respective host species although some of these lineages appear to be shared among heterologous hosts providing evidence of interspecies transmission events. The majority of these events indicates the pig-to-human spillover, although a reverse route of transmission cannot be excluded either. In this study, new variants of G9 rotaviruses were identified in two children with diarrhea and numerous pigs in Taiwan. Whole genome sequence and phylogenetic analyses of selected strains showed close genetic relationship among porcine and human strains suggesting zoonotic origin of Taiwanese human G9 strains detected in 2014–2015. Although the identified human G9P[19] and G9P[13] rotaviruses represented minority strains, the repeated detection of porcine-like rotavirus strains in Taiwanese children over time justifies the continuation of synchronized strain surveillance in humans and domestic animals.
A comprehensive platform for the analysis of ubiquitin-like protein modifications using in vivo biotinylation
Authors: Pirone Lucia , Xolalpa Wendy , Sigurðsson Jón Otti , Ramirez Juanma , Pérez Coralia , González Monika , de Sabando Ainara Ruiz , Elortza Félix , Rodriguez Manuel S. , Mayor Ugo , Olsen Jesper V. , Barrio Rosa , Sutherland James D.
Published: January 2017

Post-translational modification by ubiquitin and ubiquitin-like proteins (UbLs) is fundamental for maintaining protein homeostasis. Efficient isolation of UbL conjugates is hampered by multiple factors, including cost and specificity of reagents, removal of UbLs by proteases, distinguishing UbL conjugates from interactors, and low quantities of modified substrates. Here we describe bioUbLs, a comprehensive set of tools for studying modifications in Drosophila and mammals, based on multicistronic expression and in vivo biotinylation using the E. coli biotin protein ligase BirA. While the bioUbLs allow rapid validation of UbL conjugation for exogenous or endogenous proteins, the single vector approach can facilitate biotinylation of most proteins of interest. Purification under denaturing conditions inactivates deconjugating enzymes and stringent washes remove UbL interactors and non-specific background. We demonstrate the utility of the method in Drosophila cells and transgenic flies, identifying an extensive set of putative SUMOylated proteins in both cases. For mammalian cells, we show conjugation and localization for many different UbLs, with the identification of novel potential substrates for UFM1. Ease of use and the flexibility to modify existing vectors will make the bioUbL system a powerful complement to existing strategies for studying this important mode of protein regulation.
Epigenetic modifications at DMRs of placental genes are subjected to variations in normal gestation, pathological conditions and folate supplementation
Authors: Rahat Beenish , Mahajan Aatish , Bagga Rashmi , Hamid Abid , Kaur Jyotdeep
Published: January 2017

Invasive placentation and cancer development shares many similar molecular and epigenetic pathways. Paternally expressed, growth promoting genes (SNRPN, PEG10 and MEST) which are known to play crucial role in tumorogenesis, are not well studied during placentation. This study reports for the first time of the impact of gestational-age, pathological conditions and folic acid supplementation on dynamic nature of DNA and histone methylation present at their differentially methylated regions (DMRs). Here, we reported the association between low DNA methylation/H3K27me3 and higher expression of SNRPN, PEG10 and MEST in highly proliferating normal early gestational placenta. Molar and preeclamptic placental villi, exhibited aberrant changes in methylation levels at DMRs of these genes, leading to higher and lower expression of these genes, respectively, in reference to their respective control groups. Moreover, folate supplementation could induce gene specific changes in mRNA expression in placental cell lines. Further, MEST and SNRPN DMRs were observed to show the potential to act as novel fetal DNA markers in maternal plasma. Thus, variation in methylation levels at these DMRs regulate normal placentation and placental disorders. Additionally, the methylation at these DMRs might also be susceptible to folic acid supplementation and has the potential to be utilized in clinical diagnosis.
Disrupting Hepatocyte Cyp51 from Cholesterol Synthesis Leads to Progressive Liver Injury in the Developing Mouse and Decreases RORC Signalling
Authors: Urlep Žiga , Lorbek Gregor , Perše Martina , Jeruc Jera , Juvan Peter , Matz-Soja Madlen , Gebhardt Rolf , Björkhem Ingemar , Hall Jason A. , Bonneau Richard , Littman Dan R. , Rozman Damjana
Published: January 2017

Development of mice with hepatocyte knockout of lanosterol 14α-demethylase (HCyp51−/−) from cholesterol synthesis is characterized by the progressive onset of liver injury with ductular reaction and fibrosis. These changes begin during puberty and are generally more aggravated in the knockout females. However, a subgroup of (pre)pubertal knockout mice (runts) exhibits a pronounced male prevalent liver dysfunction characterized by downregulated amino acid metabolism and elevated Casp12. RORC transcriptional activity is diminished in livers of all runt mice, in correlation with the depletion of potential RORC ligands subsequent to CYP51 disruption. Further evidence for this comes from the global analysis that identified a crucial overlap between hepatic Cyp51−/− and Rorc−/− expression profiles. Additionally, the reduction in RORA and RORC transcriptional activity was greater in adult HCyp51−/− females than males, which correlates well with their downregulated amino and fatty acid metabolism. Overall, we identify a global and sex-dependent transcriptional de-regulation due to the block in cholesterol synthesis during development of the Cyp51 knockout mice and provide in vivo evidence that sterol intermediates downstream of lanosterol may regulate the hepatic RORC activity.
Tailoring femtosecond 1.5-μm Bessel beams for manufacturing high-aspect-ratio through-silicon vias
Authors: He Fei , Yu Junjie , Tan Yuanxin , Chu Wei , Zhou Changhe , Cheng Ya , Sugioka Koji
Published: January 2017

Three-dimensional integrated circuits (3D ICs) are an attractive replacement for conventional 2D ICs as high-performance, low-power-consumption, and small-footprint microelectronic devices. However, one of the major remaining challenges is the manufacture of high-aspect-ratio through-silicon vias (TSVs), which is a crucial technology for the assembly of 3D Si ICs. Here, we present the fabrication of high-quality TSVs using a femtosecond (fs) 1.5-μm Bessel beam. To eliminate the severe ablation caused by the sidelobes of a conventional Bessel beam, a fs Bessel beam is tailored using a specially designed binary phase plate. We demonstrate that the tailored fs Bessel beam can be used to fabricate a 2D array of approximately ∅10-μm TSVs on a 100-μm-thick Si substrate without any sidelobe damage, suggesting potential application in the 3D assembly of 3D Si ICs.
Strain-specific Fibril Propagation by an Aβ Dodecamer
Authors: Dean Dexter N. , Das Pradipta K. , Rana Pratip , Burg Franklin , Levites Yona , Morgan Sarah E. , Ghosh Preetam , Rangachari Vijayaraghavan
Published: January 2017

Low molecular weight oligomers of amyloid-β (Aβ) have emerged as the primary toxic agents in the etiology of Alzheimer disease (AD). Polymorphism observed within the aggregation end products of fibrils are known to arise due to microstructural differences among the oligomers. Diversity in aggregate morphology correlates with the differences in AD, cementing the idea that conformational strains of oligomers could be significant in phenotypic outcomes. Therefore, it is imperative to determine the ability of strains to faithfully propagate their structure. Here we report fibril propagation of an Aβ42 dodecamer called large fatty acid-derived oligomers (LFAOs). The LFAO oligomeric strain selectively induces acute cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) in neonatally-injected transgenic CRND8 mice. Propagation in-vitro occurs as a three-step process involving the association of LFAO units. LFAO-seeded fibrils possess distinct morphology made of repeating LFAO units that could be regenerated upon sonication. Overall, these data bring forth an important mechanistic perspective into strain-specific propagation of oligomers that has remained elusive thus far.
Fiber-Laser-Based Ultrasound Sensor for Photoacoustic Imaging
Authors: Liang Yizhi , Jin Long , Wang Lidai , Bai Xue , Cheng Linghao , Guan Bai-Ou
Published: January 2017

Photoacoustic imaging, especially for intravascular and endoscopic applications, requires ultrasound probes with miniature size and high sensitivity. In this paper, we present a new photoacoustic sensor based on a small-sized fiber laser. Incident ultrasound waves exert pressures on the optical fiber laser and induce harmonic vibrations of the fiber, which is detected by the frequency shift of the beating signal between the two orthogonal polarization modes in the fiber laser. This ultrasound sensor presents a noise-equivalent pressure of 40 Pa over a 50-MHz bandwidth. We demonstrate this new ultrasound sensor on an optical-resolution photoacoustic microscope. The axial and lateral resolutions are 48 μm and 3.3 μm. The field of view is up to 1.57 mm2. The sensor exhibits strong resistance to environmental perturbations, such as temperature changes, due to common-mode cancellation between the two orthogonal modes. The present fiber laser ultrasound sensor offers a new tool for all-optical photoacoustic imaging.
Tunable diffraction-free array in nonlinear photonic crystal
Authors: Liu Dongmei , Wei Dunzhao , Zhang Yong , Chen Zhenhua , Ni Rui , Yang Bo , Hu Xiaopeng , Qin Y. Q. , Zhu S. N. , Xiao Min
Published: January 2017

Diffraction-free beams have attracted increasing research interests because of their unique performances and broad applications in various fields. Although many methods have been developed to produce such beams, it is still challenging to realize a tunable non-diffracting beam. Here, we report the generation of a tunable diffraction-free array through second-harmonic generation in a nonlinear photonic crystal, i.e., a 2D periodically-poled LiTaO3 crystal. In such a crystal, the second-harmonic wave is engineered by properly designing the domain structure based on the Huygens-Fresnel principle. The characteristics of the generated diffraction-free array including its period, propagation length, and wavelength can be tuned by simply changing the input wavelength. Our observation not only enriches the diffraction-free optics, but also has potential applications for photolithography and imaging.
Microbial succession in the gastrointestinal tract of dairy cows from 2 weeks to first lactation
Authors: Dill-McFarland Kimberly A. , Breaker Jacob D. , Suen Garret
Published: January 2017

Development of the dairy calf gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and its associated microbiota are essential for survival and milk production, as this community is responsible for converting plant-based feeds into accessible nutrients. However, little is known regarding the establishment of microbes in the calf GIT. Here, we measured fecal-associated bacterial, archaeal, and fungal communities of dairy cows from 2 weeks to the middle of first lactation (>2 years) as well as rumen-associated communities from weaning (8 weeks) to first lactation. These communities were then correlated to animal growth and health. Although succession of specific operational taxonomic units (OTUs) was unique to each animal, beta-diversity decreased while alpha-diversity increased as animals aged. Calves exhibited similar microbial families and genera but different OTUs than adults, with a transition to an adult-like microbiota between weaning and 1 year of age. This suggests that alterations of the microbiota for improving downstream milk production may be most effective during, or immediately following, the weaning transition.
Novel synthesis of ZnO/PMMA nanocomposites for photocatalytic applications
Authors: Di Mauro Alessandro , Cantarella Maria , Nicotra Giuseppe , Pellegrino Giovanna , Gulino Antonino , Brundo Maria Violetta , Privitera Vittorio , Impellizzeri Giuliana
Published: January 2017

The incorporation of nanostructured photocatalysts in polymers is a strategic way to obtain novel water purification systems. This approach takes the advantages of: (1) the presence of nanostructured photocatalyst; (2) the flexibility of polymer; (3) the immobilization of photocatalyst, that avoids the recovery of the nanoparticles after the water treatment. Here we present ZnO-polymer nanocomposites with high photocatalytic performance and stability. Poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) powders were coated with a thin layer of ZnO (80 nm thick) by atomic layer deposition at low temperature (80 °C). Then the method of sonication and solution casting was performed so to obtain the ZnO/PMMA nanocomposites. A complete morphological, structural, and chemical characterization was made by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses. The remarkable photocatalytic efficiency of the nanocomposites was demonstrated by the degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye and phenol in aqueous solution under UV light irradiation. The composites also resulted reusable and stable, since they maintained an unmodified photo-activity after several MB discoloration runs. Thus, these results demonstrate that the proposed ZnO/PMMA nanocomposite is a promising candidate for photocatalytic applications and, in particular, for novel water treatment.
Dopamine promotes NMDA receptor hypofunction in the retina through D1 receptor-mediated Csk activation, Src inhibition and decrease of GluN2B phosphorylation
Authors: Socodato Renato , Santiago Felipe N. , Portugal Camila C. , Domith Ivan , Encarnação Thaísa G. , Loiola Erick C. , Ventura Ana L. M. , Cossenza Marcelo , Relvas João B. , Castro Newton G. , Paes-de-Carvalho Roberto
Published: January 2017

Dopamine and glutamate are critical neurotransmitters involved in light-induced synaptic activity in the retina. In brain neurons, dopamine D1 receptors (D1Rs) and the cytosolic protein tyrosine kinase Src can, independently, modulate the behavior of NMDA-type glutamate receptors (NMDARs). Here we studied the interplay between D1Rs, Src and NMDARs in retinal neurons. We reveal that dopamine-mediated D1R stimulation provoked NMDAR hypofunction in retinal neurons by attenuating NMDA-gated currents, by preventing NMDA-elicited calcium mobilization and by decreasing the phosphorylation of NMDAR subunit GluN2B. This dopamine effect was dependent on upregulation of the canonical D1R/adenylyl cyclase/cAMP/PKA pathway, of PKA-induced activation of C-terminal Src kinase (Csk) and of Src inhibition. Accordingly, knocking down Csk or overexpressing a Csk phosphoresistant Src mutant abrogated the dopamine-induced NMDAR hypofunction. Overall, the interplay between dopamine and NMDAR hypofunction, through the D1R/Csk/Src/GluN2B pathway, might impact on light-regulated synaptic activity in retinal neurons.
Controllable Synthesis of TiO2@Fe2O3 Core-Shell Nanotube Arrays with Double-Wall Coating as Superb Lithium-Ion Battery Anodes
Authors: Zhong Yan , Ma Yifan , Guo Qiubo , Liu Jiaqi , Wang Yadong , Yang Mei , Xia Hui
Published: January 2017

Highlighted by the safe operation and stable performances, titanium oxides (TiO2) are deemed as promising candidates for next generation lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). However, the pervasively low capacity is casting shadow on desirable electrochemical behaviors and obscuring their practical applications. In this work, we reported a unique template-assisted and two-step atomic layer deposition (ALD) method to achieve TiO2@Fe2O3 core-shell nanotube arrays with hollow interior and double-wall coating. The as-prepared architecture combines both merits of the high specific capacity of Fe2O3 and structural stability of TiO2 backbone. Owing to the nanotubular structural advantages integrating facile strain relaxation as well as rapid ion and electron transport, the TiO2@Fe2O3 nanotube arrays with a high mass loading of Fe2O3 attained desirable capacity of ~520 mA h g−1, exhibiting both good rate capability under uprated current density of 10 A g−1 and especially enhanced cycle stability (~450 mA h g−1 after 600 cycles), outclassing most reported TiO2@metal oxide composites. The results not only provide a new avenue for hybrid core-shell nanotube formation, but also offer an insight for rational design of advanced electrode materials for LIBs.
Flexible and Wavelength-Selective MoS2 Phototransistors with Monolithically Integrated Transmission Color Filters
Authors: Yoo Geonwook , Choi Sol Lea , Park Sang Jin , Lee Kyu-Tae , Lee Sanghyun , Oh Min Suk , Heo Junseok , Park Hui Joon
Published: January 2017

Color-selective or wavelength-tunable capability is a crucial feature for two-dimensional (2-D) semiconducting material-based image sensor applications. Here, we report on flexible and wavelength-selective molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) phototransistors using monolithically integrated transmission Fabry-Perot (F-P) cavity filters. The fabricated multilayer MoS2phototransistors on a polyarylate substrate exhibit decent electrical characteristics (μFE > 64.4 cm2/Vs, on/off ratio > 106), and the integrated F-P filters, being able to cover whole visible spectrum, successfully modulate the spectral response characteristics of MoS2phototransistors from ~495 nm (blue) to ~590 nm (amber). Furthermore, power dependence of both responsivity and specific detectivity shows similar trend with other reports, dominated by the photogating effect. When combined with large-area monolayer MoS2for optical property enhancement and array processing, our results can be further developed into ultra-thin flexible photodetectors for wearables, conformable image sensor, and other optoelectronic applications.
Unique Bacteria Community Composition and Co-occurrence in the Milk of Different Ruminants
Authors: Li Zhipeng , Wright André-Denis G. , Yang Yifeng , Si Huazhe , Li Guangyu
Published: January 2017

Lactation provides the singular source of nourishment to the offspring of mammals. This nutrition source also contains a diverse microbiota affecting the development and health of the newborn. Here, we examined the milk microbiota in water deer (Hydropotes inermis, the most primitive member of the family Cervidae), reindeer (Rangifer tarandus, the oldest semi-domesticated cervid), and the dairy goat (Capra aegagrus, member of the family Bovidae), to determine if common milk microbiota species were present across all three ruminant species. The results showed that water deer had the highest bacterial diversity, followed by reindeer, and then goat. Unifrac distance and correspondence analyses revealed that water deer harbored an increased abundance of Pseudomonas spp. and Acinetobacter spp., while milk from reindeer and goat was dominated by unclassified bacteria from the family Hyphomicrobiaceae and Bacillus spp., respectively. These data indicate significant differences in the composition of milk-based bacterial communities. The presence of Halomonas spp. in three distinct co-occurrence networks of bacterial interactions revealed both common and unique features in milk niches. These results suggest that the milk of water deer and reindeer harbor unique bacterial communities compared with the goat, which might reflect host microbial adaptation caused by evolution.
Dose-dependency and reversibility of radiation-induced injury in cardiac explant-derived cells of mice
Authors: Luo Lan , Yan Chen , Urata Yoshishige , Hasan Al Shaimaa , Goto Shinji , Guo Chang-Ying , Zhang Shouhua , Li Tao-Sheng
Published: January 2017

We evaluated the dose-dependency and reversibility of radiation-induced injury in cardiac explant-derived cells (CDCs), a mixed cell population grown from heart tissues. Adult C57BL/6 mice were exposed to 0, 10, 50 and 250 mGy γ-rays for 7 days and atrial tissues were collected for experiments 24 hours after last exposure. The number of CDCs was significantly decreased by daily exposure to over 250 mGy. Interestingly, daily exposure to over 50 mGy significantly decreased the c-kit expression and telomerase activity, increased 53BP1 foci in the nuclei of CDCs. However, CD90 expression and growth factors production in CDCs were not significantly changed even after daily exposure to 250 mGy. We further evaluated the reversibility of radiation-induced injury in CDCs at 1 week and 3 weeks after a single exposure to 3 Gy γ-rays. The number and growth factors production of CDCs were soon recovered at 1 week. However, the increased expression of CD90 were retained at 1 week, but recovered at 3 weeks. Moreover, the decreased expression of c-kit, impaired telomerase activity, and increased 53BP1 foci were poorly recovered even at 3 weeks. These data may help us to find the most sensitive and reliable bio-parameter(s) for evaluating radiation-induced injury in CDCs.
Association of Genome-Wide Association Study (GWAS) Identified SNPs and Risk of Breast Cancer in an Indian Population
Authors: Nagrani Rajini , Mhatre Sharayu , Rajaraman Preetha , Chatterjee Nilanjan , Akbari Mohammad R. , Boffetta Paolo , Brennan Paul , Badwe Rajendra , Gupta Sudeep , Dikshit Rajesh
Published: January 2017

To date, no studies have investigated the association of the GWAS-identified SNPs with BC risk in Indian population. We investigated the association of 30 previously reported and replicated BC susceptibility SNPs in 1,204 cases and 1,212 controls from a hospital based case-control study conducted at the Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai. As a measure of total susceptibility burden, the polygenic risk score (PRS) for each individual was defined by the weighted sum of genotypes from 21 independent SNPs with weights derived from previously published estimates of association odds-ratios. Logistic regression models were used to assess risk associated with individual SNPs and overall PRS, and stratified by menopausal and receptor status. A total of 11 SNPs from eight genomic regions (FGFR2, 9q31.2, MAP3K, CCND1, ZM1Z1, RAD51L11, ESR1 and UST) showed statistically significant (p-value ≤ 0.05) evidence of association, either overall or when stratified by menopausal status or hormone receptor status. BC SNPs previously identified in Caucasian population showed evidence of replication in the Indian population mainly with respect to risk of postmenopausal and hormone receptor positive BC.
LC-ESI-MS/MS method for the enantioseparation of six flavanones
Authors: Baranowska Irena , Hejniak Judyta , Magiera Sylwia
Published: January 2017

An LC-ESI-MS/MS method enabling the enantioseparation of six flavanones (flavanone, naringenin, hesperetin, eriodictyol, liquiritigenin and pinostrobin) was developed and validated.
Hierarchical honeycomb-structured films by directed self-assembly in “breath figure” templating of ionizable “clicked” PH3T-b-PMMA diblock copolymers: an ionic group/counter-ion effect on porous polymer film morphology
Authors: Ji Eunkyung , Pellerin Virginie , Ehrenfeld Francis , Laffore Anthony , Bousquet Antoine , Billon Laurent
Published: January 2017

Impact of the ionization of “clicked” rod–coil diblock copolymers on their directed self-assembly in “breath figure” templating for hierarchically honeycomb-structured films.
A tailored multi-frequency EPR approach to accurately determine the magnetic resonance parameters of dynamic nuclear polarization agents: application to AMUPol
Authors: Gast P. , Mance D. , Zurlo E. , Ivanov K. L. , Baldus M. , Huber M.
Published: January 2017

Multi- and very high-field electron paramagnetic resonance provides essential parameters to characterize dynamic nuclear polarization agents.
The deactivation mechanism of Pb on the Ce/TiO2 catalyst for the selective catalytic reduction of NOx with NH3: TPD and DRIFT studies
Authors: Wang Shu-xian , Guo Rui-tang , Pan Wei-guo , Li Ming-yuan , Sun Peng , Liu Shu-ming , Liu Shuai-wei , Sun Xiao , Liu Jian
Published: January 2017

It was well recognized that Pb had a poisoning effect on a SCR catalyst. In this study, the deactivation mechanism of Pb on the Ce/TiO2 catalyst was investigated based on the characterization results of TPD and in situ DRIFT studies.
Water in cellulose: evidence and identification of immobile and mobile adsorbed phases by 2H MAS NMR
Authors: Lindh E. L. , Terenzi C. , Salmén L. , Furó I.
Published: January 2017

The organization of water molecules adsorbed onto cellulose and the supramolecular hydrated structure of microfibril aggregates represents, still today, one of the open and complex questions in the physical chemistry of natural polymers.
A conformational study of protonated noradrenaline by UV–UV and IR dip double resonance laser spectroscopy combined with an electrospray and a cold ion trap method
Authors: Wako Hiromichi , Ishiuchi Shun-ichi , Kato Daichi , Féraud Géraldine , Dedonder-Lardeux Claude , Jouvet Christophe , Fujii Masaaki
Published: January 2017

In protonated noradrenaline, 3 folded and 2 extended conformers were identified under the ultra-cold condition.
Adatom surface diffusion of catalytic metals on the anatase TiO2(101) surface
Authors: Alghannam Afnan , Muhich Christopher L. , Musgrave Charles B.
Published: January 2017

Catalytically active metals diffuse facially, and directionally, across the TiO2 surface, relative behaviors are linearly correlated to adatom binding and electronegativity.
Single lithium-ion conducting solid polymer electrolytes: advances and perspectives
Authors: Zhang Heng , Li Chunmei , Piszcz Michal , Coya Estibaliz , Rojo Teofilo , Rodriguez-Martinez Lide M. , Armand Michel , Zhou Zhibin
Published: January 2017

Single lithium-ion conducting solid polymer electrolytes (SLIC-SPEs), with a high lithium-ion transference number, the absence of the detrimental effect of anion polarization, and low dendrite growth rate, could be an excellent choice of safe electrolyte materials for lithium batteries in the future.
Polyaniline nanofibers: broadening applications for conducting polymers
Authors: Baker Christina O. , Huang Xinwei , Nelson Wyatt , Kaner Richard B.
Published: January 2017

Nanostructured polyaniline is the key to greater success of this unique conducting polymer.
An unprecedented photochromic system with cis-oriented dithienyl-dithiolenes supported by metal chelation
Authors: Wang Jiang , Shi Lin-Xi , Wang Jin-Yun , Chen Jin-Xiang , Liu Sheng-Hua , Chen Zhong-Ning
Published: January 2017

A zinc(ii) complex with cis-oriented dithienyl-dithiolenes supported by two chelating five-membered rings shows distinctly stepwise photochromism upon irradiation with appropriate wavelengths of light.
Cd-Based metal–organic frameworks from solvothermal reactions involving in situ aldimine condensation and the highly sensitive detection of Fe3+ ions
Authors: Zhang Xin , Wang Zhong-Jie , Chen Shu-Guang , Shi Zhen-Zhen , Chen Jin-Xi , Zheng He-Gen
Published: January 2017

Four Cd(ii)-based compounds (1, 2, 3 and 4) were synthesized involving in situ aldimine condensation, and compound 2 showed an excellent sensitivity for detecting Fe3+ ions.
Synthesis of tetrazines from gem-difluoroalkenes under aerobic conditions at room temperature
Authors: Fang Zheng , Hu Wen-Li , Liu De-Yong , Yu Chu-Yi , Hu Xiang-Guo
Published: January 2017

A procedure for the synthesis of tetrazines fromgem-difluoroalkenes under aerobic conditions has been developed.
Efficient synthesis of chiral benzofuryl β-amino alcohols via a catalytic asymmetric Henry reaction
Authors: Chen Wei , Zhou Zhao-Hui , Chen Hong-Bin
Published: January 2017

A reliable and generally applicable method to access bioactive chiral benzofuryl β-amino alcohols via a catalytic asymmetric Henry reaction.
Redox reaction between benzyl azides and aryl azides: concerted synthesis of aryl nitriles and anilines
Authors: Kim Yongjin , Rhee Young Ho , Park Jaiwook
Published: January 2017

A unique and novel reaction between benzyl azides and aryl azides is described to synthesize aryl nitriles and anilines concurrently, which is catalyzed with a photoactivated diruthenium complex.
Synthetic minimalistic tryptophan zippers as a chiroptical switch
Authors: Haridas V. , Sadanandan Sandhya , Dhawan Sameer , Mishra Rituraj , Jain Ishani , Goel Gaurav , Hu Yuan , Patel Sandeep
Published: January 2017

Supramolecular helices with left and right handed chirality were designed and synthesized based on l-tryptophan that undergo helical inversion upon addition of H2PO4−.
Tuning optical band gap by electrochemical reduction in TiO2 nanorods for improving photocatalytic activities
Authors: Yun Jong-Won , Ryu Ki Yeon , Nguyen Tri Khoa , Ullah Farman , Chang Park Yun , Kim Yong Soo
Published: January 2017

Tuning of the optical band gap of TiO2 nanorods (TiO2 NRs) was investigated by electrochemical methods for improving their photocatalytic activities.
Polymyxin B sulfate inducing time-dependent antagonism of the mixtures of pesticide, ionic liquids, and antibiotics to Vibrio qinghaiensis sp.-Q67
Authors: Fan Ye , Liu Shu-Shen , Qu Rui , Li Kai , Liu Hai-Ling
Published: January 2017

In the real environment, organisms are simultaneously exposed to different types of chemicals.
Preparation of polystyrene–polyolefin multiblock copolymers by sequential coordination and anionic polymerization
Authors: Kim Dong Hyun , Park Seung Soo , Park Su Hyun , Jeon Jong Yeob , Kim Hyo Bo , Lee Bun Yeoul
Published: January 2017

The polyolefin and polystyrene chains were successively grown from [4-(isopropenyl)benzyl]2Zn to form polystyrene-b-polyolefin-b-polystyrene units.
Fabrication of ZIF-9@super-macroporous microsphere for adsorptive removal of Congo red from water
Authors: Dai Juan , Xiao Shangzhen , Liu Jing , He Jing , Lei Jiandu , Wang Luying
Published: January 2017

A novel composite adsorbent of ZIF-9 nanoparticles growing on super-macroporous microspheres (SMM) was synthesized via in situ growth method for adsorptive removal of Congo red from water.
Stability, CO2 sensitivity, oil tolerance and displacement efficiency of polymer enhanced foam
Authors: Pu Wanfen , Wei Peng , Sun Lin , Wang Song
Published: January 2017

This paper focuses on the benefits of polymers that contribute to foam flooding, such as foam stability, carbon dioxide (CO2) sensitivity, oil tolerance and displacement efficiency.
Site-selective Eu(iii) spectroscopy of highly efficient luminescent mixed-metal Pb(ii)/Eu(iii) coordination polymers
Authors: Barbosa C. D. E. S. , da Luz L. L. , Paz F. A. Almeida , Malta O. L. , Rodrigues M. O. , Júnior S. A. , Ferreira R. A. S. , Carlos L. D.
Published: January 2017

Novel coordination polymers based on Pb1−xEux–BDC (x = 0.05–0.50, BDC = 1,4-benzenedicarboxylic acid) are reported with a maximum emission quantum yield of 69 ± 7%.
Modular sub-monomeric cell-penetrating guanidine-rich peptoids – synthesis, assembly and biological evaluation
Authors: Marouseau Etienne , Neckebroeck Albane , Larkin Heidi , Le Roux Antoine , Volkov Leonid , Lavoie Christine L. , Marsault Éric
Published: January 2017

Development of a guanidinium-rich transporters toolset to study GAG-mediated cell permeation.
Supramolecular architectures featuring the antenna effect in solid state DSSCs
Authors: Charalambidis Georgios , Karikis Kostas , Georgilis Evangelos , M'Sabah Bilel Louahem , Pellegrin Yann , Planchat Aurélien , Lucas Bruno , Mitraki Anna , Bouclé Johann , Odobel Fabrice , Coutsolelos Athanassios G.
Published: January 2017

Hybrid artificial antenna systems, with implementation of nature's basic concept of self-organization of chromophores, have been prepared and investigated in DSSCs. .
Modelling the molecular mechanisms of aging
Authors: Mc Auley Mark T. , Guimera Alvaro Martinez , Hodgson David , Mcdonald Neil , Mooney Kathleen M. , Morgan Amy E. , Proctor Carole J.
Published: January 2017

The aging process is driven at the cellular level by random molecular damage that slowly accumulates with age. Although cells possess mechanisms to repair or remove damage, they are not 100% efficient and their efficiency declines with age. There are many molecular mechanisms involved and exogenous factors such as stress also contribute to the aging process. The complexity of the aging process has stimulated the use of computational modelling in order to increase our understanding of the system, test hypotheses and make testable predictions. As many different mechanisms are involved, a wide range of models have been developed. This paper gives an overview of the types of models that have been developed, the range of tools used, modelling standards and discusses many specific examples of models that have been grouped according to the main mechanisms that they address. We conclude by discussing the opportunities and challenges for future modelling in this field.
BAY 11-7082 inhibits the NF-κB and NLRP3 inflammasome pathways and protects against IMQ-induced psoriasis
Authors: Irrera Natasha , Vaccaro Mario , Bitto Alessandra , Pallio Giovanni , Pizzino Gabriele , Lentini Maria , Arcoraci Vincenzo , Minutoli Letteria , Scuruchi Michele , Cutroneo Giuseppina , Anastasi Giuseppe Pio , Ettari Roberta , Squadrito Francesco , Altavilla Domenica
Published: January 2017

BAY 11-7082 antagonizes I-κB kinase-β preventing nuclear translocation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB); it also inhibits NOD-like receptor family, pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation. NF-κB is involved in psoriasis, whereas the role of NLRP3 is controversial. We investigated BAY 11-7082 effects in an experimental model of psoriasis-like dermatitis. Psoriasis-like lesions were induced by a topical application of imiquimod (IMQ) cream (62.5 mg/day) on the shaved back skin of C57BL/6 and NLRP3 knockout (KO) mice for 7 consecutive days. Sham psoriasis animals were challenged with Vaseline cream. Sham and IMQ animals were randomized to receive BAY 11-7082 (20 mg/kg/i.p.) or its vehicle (100 μl/i.p of 0.9% NaCl). Skin of IMQ animals developed erythema, scales, thickening and epidermal acanthosis. IMQ skin samples showed increased expression of pNF-κB and NLRP3 activation. BAY 11-7082 blunted epidermal thickness, acanthosis and inflammatory infiltrate. BAY 11-7082 reduced pNF-κB, NLRP3, tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-1β expression, blunted the phosphorylation of signal transducer and activators of transcription 3 (STAT3) and decreased IL-23 levels. In addition, BAY 11-7082 reawakened the apoptotic machinery. NLRP3 KO animals showed a reduced total histological score but persistent mild acanthosis, dermal thickness and expression of pNF-κB and pSTAT3, following IMQ application. Our data suggest that BAY 11-7082 might represent an interesting approach for the management of psoriasis-like dermatitis depending on the dual inhibition of NF-κB and NLRP3.
Fault‐tolerant predictive power control of a DFIG for wind energy applications
Authors: Gonçalves Pedro F.C. , Cruz Sérgio M.A. , Abadi Mohsen B. , Caseiro Luís M.A. , Mendes André M.S.
Published: January 2017

This study presents a new fault‐tolerant predictive power control strategy for doubly‐fed induction generators (DFIGs) used in wind energy applications, with the rotor fed by a three‐level neutral point clamped converter. The proposed control strategy is able to maintain the system in operation with a good performance after the occurrence of either open‐circuit (OC) or short‐circuit faults in the insulated‐gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs) of the rotor‐side converter (RSC), thus reducing the downtime and maintenance costs of wind turbines. The fault‐tolerant strategy takes advantage of the discrete nature and flexibility of finite control set model predictive control strategies and restricts the possible switching states of the power converter according to the type of fault and its location. A diagnosis method for IGBT OC faults in the RSC, based on voltage errors, is also proposed for the considered system. This method uses the estimated rotor voltages from the DFIG model, thus avoiding the use of any extra sensors. Accurate and fast detection of OC faults in both interior and exterior IGBTs is achieved throughout the entire DFIG operational range. The effectiveness of the fault diagnosis method and fault‐tolerant control strategy is validated with several experimental results.
Lower bound of the estimation error of an emitter's direction‐of‐arrival/polarisation, for a collocated triad of orthogonal dipoles/loops that fail randomly
Authors: Kitavi Dominic Makaa , Wong Kainam Thomas , Zou Mengxi , Agrawal Keshav
Published: January 2017

For a triad of short dipoles (or of small loops), in perpendicular orientation relative to each other but collocated in space, this study derives a lower bound for their error in direction‐of‐arrival estimation and polarisation estimation, accounting for the possibility of failure in any individual dipoles (or loops).
Effect of ion radiative cooling on Jeans instability of partially ionized dusty plasma with dust charge fluctuation
Authors: Sharma Prerana , Patidar Archana
Published: January 2017

In this paper, the effect of ion radiative cooling on the gravitational instability of dusty plasma is studied, incorporating dust charge fluctuation with dust-neutral, neutral-ion, and ion-neutral collisions. The basic equations are linearized using normal mode analysis to obtain a general dispersion relation. The general dispersion relation is analytically and numerically discussed to explain the role of ion radiative cooling in the structure formation through gravitational instability. The Jeans collapse criteria are found to be modified due to ion and electron radiative cooling, dust charge fluctuations, and collisions effects. It is determined from the analytical and numerical calculations that the support of radiative cooling of ions drives thermal fluctuations and gives instability to the system. The electron cooling effect remains dominating over ion cooling effect, and thus, it enhances the collapse more efficiently than ion cooling effect. Although the radiative cooling is slow, it may precede the collapse in molecular cloud, which further leads to the structure formation. The present work is relevance for the structure formation in the molecular cloud.