bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The acetyllysine reader BRD3R promotes human nuclear reprogramming and regulates mitosis
Authors: Shao Zhicheng , Zhang Ruowen , Khodadadi-Jamayran Alireza , Chen Bo , Crowley Michael R. , Festok Muhamad A. , Crossman David K. , Townes Tim M. , Hu Kejin
Published: March 2016

It is well known that both recipient cells and donor nuclei demonstrate a mitotic advantage as observed in the traditional reprogramming with somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT). However, it is not known whether a specific mitotic factor plays a critical role in reprogramming. Here we identify an isoform of human bromodomain-containing 3 (BRD3), BRD3R (BRD3 with Reprogramming activity), as a reprogramming factor. BRD3R positively regulates mitosis during reprogramming, upregulates a large set of mitotic genes at early stages of reprogramming, and associates with mitotic chromatin. Interestingly, a set of the mitotic genes upregulated by BRD3R constitutes a pluripotent molecular signature. The two BRD3 isoforms display differential binding to acetylated histones. Our results suggest a molecular interpretation for the mitotic advantage in reprogramming and show that mitosis may be a driving force of reprogramming.
Data publication with the structural biology data grid supports live analysis
Authors: Meyer Peter A. , Socias Stephanie , Key Jason , Ransey Elizabeth , Tjon Emily C. , Buschiazzo Alejandro , Lei Ming , Botka Chris , Withrow James , Neau David , Rajashankar Kanagalaghatta , Anderson Karen S. , Baxter Richard H. , Blacklow Stephen C. , Boggon Titus J. , Bonvin Alexandre M. J. J. , Borek Dominika , Brett Tom J. , Caflisch Amedeo , Chang Chung-I , Chazin Walter J. , Corbett Kevin D. , Cosgrove Michael S. , Crosson Sean , Dhe-Paganon Sirano , Di Cera Enrico , Drennan Catherine L. , Eck Michael J. , Eichman Brandt F. , Fan Qing R. , Ferré-D'Amaré Adrian R. , Christopher Fromme J. , Garcia K. Christopher , Gaudet Rachelle , Gong Peng , Harrison Stephen C. , Heldwein Ekaterina E. , Jia Zongchao , Keenan Robert J. , Kruse Andrew C. , Kvansakul Marc , McLellan Jason S. , Modis Yorgo , Nam Yunsun , Otwinowski Zbyszek , Pai Emil F. , Pereira Pedro José Barbosa , Petosa Carlo , Raman C. S. , Rapoport Tom A. , Roll-Mecak Antonina , Rosen Michael K. , Rudenko Gabby , Schlessinger Joseph , Schwartz Thomas U. , Shamoo Yousif , Sondermann Holger , Tao Yizhi J. , Tolia Niraj H. , Tsodikov Oleg V. , Westover Kenneth D. , Wu Hao , Foster Ian , Fraser James S. , Maia Filipe R. N C. , Gonen Tamir , Kirchhausen Tom , Diederichs Kay , Crosas Mercè , Sliz Piotr
Published: March 2016

Access to experimental X-ray diffraction image data is fundamental for validation and reproduction of macromolecular models and indispensable for development of structural biology processing methods. Here, we established a diffraction data publication and dissemination system, Structural Biology Data Grid (SBDG; data.sbgrid.org), to preserve primary experimental data sets that support scientific publications. Data sets are accessible to researchers through a community driven data grid, which facilitates global data access. Our analysis of a pilot collection of crystallographic data sets demonstrates that the information archived by SBDG is sufficient to reprocess data to statistics that meet or exceed the quality of the original published structures. SBDG has extended its services to the entire community and is used to develop support for other types of biomedical data sets. It is anticipated that access to the experimental data sets will enhance the paradigm shift in the community towards a much more dynamic body of continuously improving data analysis.
Humans choose representatives who enforce cooperation in social dilemmas through extortion
Authors: Milinski Manfred , Hilbe Christian , Semmann Dirk , Sommerfeld Ralf , Marotzke Jochem
Published: March 2016

Social dilemmas force players to balance between personal and collective gain. In many dilemmas, such as elected governments negotiating climate-change mitigation measures, the decisions are made not by individual players but by their representatives. However, the behaviour of representatives in social dilemmas has not been investigated experimentally. Here inspired by the negotiations for greenhouse-gas emissions reductions, we experimentally study a collective-risk social dilemma that involves representatives deciding on behalf of their fellow group members. Representatives can be re-elected or voted out after each consecutive collective-risk game. Selfish players are preferentially elected and are hence found most frequently in the ‘representatives’ treatment. Across all treatments, we identify the selfish players as extortioners. As predicted by our mathematical model, their steadfast strategies enforce cooperation from fair players who finally compensate almost completely the deficit caused by the extortionate co-players. Everybody gains, but the extortionate representatives and their groups gain the most.
The use of low-calorie sweeteners is associated with self-reported prior intent to lose weight in a representative sample of US adults
Authors: Drewnowski A , Rehm C D
Published: March 2016

Background:

Low-calorie sweeteners (LCSs) are said to be a risk factor for obesity and diabetes. Reverse causality may be an alternative explanation.

Methods:

Data on LCS use, from a single 24-h dietary recall, for a representative sample of 22 231 adults were obtained from 5 cycles of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (1999–2008 NHANES). Retrospective data on intent to lose or maintain weight during the prior 12-months and 10-year weight history were obtained from the weight history questionnaire. Objectively measured heights and weights were obtained from the examination. Primary analyses evaluated the association between intent to lose/maintain weight and use of LCSs and specific LCS product types using survey-weighted generalized linear models. We further evaluated whether body mass index (BMI) may mediate the association between weight loss intent and use of LCSs. The association between 10-year weight history and current LCS use was evaluated using restricted cubic splines.

Results:

In cross-sectional analyses, LCS use was associated with a higher prevalence of obesity and diabetes. Adults who tried to lose weight during the previous 12 months were more likely to consume LCS beverages (prevalence ratio=1.64, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.54–1.75), tabletop LCS (prevalence ratio=1.68, 95% CI 1.47–1.91) and LCS foods (prevalence ratio=1.93, 95% CI 1.60–2.33) as compared with those who did not. In mediation analyses, BMI only partially mediated the association between weight control history and the use of LCS beverages, tabletop LCS, but not LCS foods. Current LCS use was further associated with a history of prior weight change (for example, weight loss and gain).

Conclusions:

LCS use was associated with self-reported intent to lose weight during the previous 12 months. This association was only partially mediated by differences in BMI. Any inference of causality between attempts at weight control and LCS use is tempered by the cross-sectional nature of these data and retrospective self-reports of prior weight loss/maintenance intent.
Death receptor 6 (DR6) is required for mouse B16 tumor angiogenesis via the NF-κB, P38 MAPK and STAT3 pathways
Authors: Yang X , Shi B , Li L , Xu Z , Ge Y , Shi J , Liu Y , Zheng D
Published: March 2016

Although death receptor 6 (DR6) is aberrantly expressed in certain cancer cell lines, its function, signaling pathway and potential clinical significance in tumor progression are not well characterized. We report here that knocking down DR6 in the mouse B16 cell line has no effect on B16 cell death in vitro but suppresses xenograft B16 tumor growth by preventing tumor blood vessel formation in vivo. Deficiency of DR6 changes cytokine expression and secretion; in particular, it inhibits the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6), which is able to induce the expression of the angiogenesis-related factors: vascular endothelial growth factor-A, platelet-derived growth factor-β, vascular endothelial growth factor-D and platelet-derived growth factor receptor-α. Further experiments demonstrate that DR6-dependent angiogenesis is involved in the IL-6/P38 MAPK and IL-6/STAT3 pathways. Our novel findings demonstrate for the first time that DR6 expression in B16 cells facilitates tumor growth by accelerating tumor angiogenesis. Moreover, these results suggest that DR6 is involved in three important intracellular pathways that lead to homeostatic angiogenesis in tumor growth.
Second magnetization peak effect, vortex dynamics and flux pinning in 112-type superconductor Ca0.8La0.2Fe1−xCoxAs2
Authors: Zhou Wei , Xing Xiangzhuo , Wu Wenjuan , Zhao Haijun , Shi Zhixiang
Published: March 2016

Investigation of vortex pinning and its relaxation is of great importance for both basic physics and technological applications in the field of superconductivity. We report a great improvement of superconducting properties in the recently discovered 112-type superconductors (Ca, La)FeAs2 through Co co-doping. High critical current density Js(5 K) > 2*106 A/cm2 is obtained and pronounced second peak effect is observed in magnetization hysteresis loops. Both the dynamic and static relaxation studies result in comparable and sizable relaxation rates S or Q, indicating a fast vortex creep. The second magnetization peak (SMP) is found to be strongly associated with a crossover from elastic to plastic vortex creep. Above the crossover, plastic vortex creep governs the vortex dynamics in a wide range of temperatures and fields. A good scaling behavior of the normalized pinning force density fp by formula fp = hp(1−h)q (p = 1.44, q = 1.66, h = 0.44) is revealed, which demonstrates an important contribution from core normal point-like pinning sites. To better understand the SMP phenomenon, we discuss the related physical scenario as well as the affecting factors in the SMP occurrence.
3D Binder-free MoSe2 Nanosheets/Carbon Cloth Electrodes for Efficient and Stable Hydrogen Evolution Prepared by Simple Electrophoresis Deposition Strategy
Authors: Liu Yundan , Ren Long , Zhang Zhen , Qi Xiang , Li Hongxing , Zhong Jianxin
Published: March 2016

We successfully developed a simple electrophoretic deposition (EPD) method to decorate the MoSe2 nanosheets on the carbon fiber surface of carbon cloth (MoSe2/CC). With this process, MoSe2 nanosheets can be uniformly and tightly deposited on this flexible conductor to form a 3D binder-free electrode for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). The film thickness can also be controlled by the EPD time. Directly used as binder-free electrodes for hydrogen evolution reaction, the as-prepared 3D MoSe2/CC samples exhibit excellent catalytic activity in an acidic electrolyte (21 mA/cm2 at an over-potential of 250 mV). Variation of MoSe2 nanosheets film thickness in the electrodes could affect the catalytic activity and it was found that the MoSe2/CC sample prepared with 60 min EPD time shows the highest HER activity amongst these different thickness samples. Moreover, stability tests though long-term potential cycles (no degradation after 1000 continuous potential cycles) and extended electrolysis confirm the exceptional durability of the catalyst. This development offers us an attractive and active 3D electrode for electrochemical water splitting.
Experimental and theoretical thermal equations of state of MgSiO3 post-perovskite at multi-megabar pressures
Authors: Sakai Takeshi , Dekura Haruhiko , Hirao Naohisa
Published: March 2016

The MgSiO3 post-perovskite phase is the most abundant silicate phase in a super-Earth’s mantle, although it only exists within the Earth’s lowermost mantle. In this study, we established the thermal equation of state (EoS) of the MgSiO3 post-perovskite phase, which were determined by using both laser-heated diamond anvil cell and density-functional theoretical techniques, within a multi-megabar pressure range, corresponding to the conditions of a super-Earth’s mantle. The Keane and AP2 EoS models were adopted for the first time to extract meaningful physical properties. The experimentally determined Grüneisen parameter, which is one of the thermal EoS parameters and its volume dependence were found to be consistent with their theoretically obtained values. This reduced the previously reported discrepancy observed between experiment and theory. Both the experimental and theoretical EoS were also found to be in very good agreement for volumes at pressures and temperatures of up to 300 GPa and 5000 K, respectively. Our newly developed EoS should be applicable to a super-Earth’s mantle, as well as the Earth’s core-mantle boundary region.
Simultaneous expression and transportation of insulin by supramolecular polysaccharide nanocluster
Authors: Zhang Yu-Hui , Zhang Ying-Ming , Zhao Qi-Hui , Liu Yu
Published: March 2016

Drug/gene transportation systems with stimuli-responsive release behaviors are becoming research hotspots in biochemical and biomedical fields. In this work, a glucose-responsive supramolecular nanocluster was successfully constructed by the intermolecular complexation of phenylboronic acid modified β-cyclodextrin with adamantane modified polyethylenimine, which could be used as a biocompatible carrier for insulin and pCMV3-C-GFPSpark-Ins DNA which could express insulin co-delivery. Benefiting from the response capability of phenylboronic acid moiety toward glucose, the encapsulated insulin could be specifically released and the corresponding targeted DNA could efficiently express insulin in HepG2 cell, accompanied by the high-level insulin release in vitro. Our results demonstrate that the simultaneous insulin drug delivery and insulin gene transfection in a controlled mode may have great potential in the clinical diabetes treatments.
A systematic method to identify modulation of transcriptional regulation via chromatin activity reveals regulatory network during mESC differentiation
Authors: Duren Zhana , Wang Yong
Published: March 2016

Chromatin regulators (CRs) are crucial for connecting the chromatin level and transcriptome level by modulating chromatin structures, establishing and maintaining epigenetic modifications. We present a systematic method to identify MOdulation of transcriptional regulation via CHromatin Activity (MOCHA) from gene expression data and demonstrate its advantage in associating CRs to their chromatin localization and understand CRs’ function. We first re-construct the CRs modulation network by integrating the correlation and conditional correlation concepts. Then we quantify the chromatin activity as hidden variable in network by integrating the upstream and downstream information. We applied MOCHA to systematically explore the interplay of CRs, TFs and target genes in mouse embryonic stem cells (ESC). As a result, MOCHA identified 420 chromatin regulators with modulation preference, including Pou5f1 and Eed. We found that BAF complex, NuRD complex and polycomb-group proteins, regulate the delicate balance between pluripotency and differentiation by modulating key TFs including Klf4, Tcf3 and Max; NuRD complex members Mbd3 and Hdac1 may modulate Klf4 to achieve its dual functional roles in pluripotent and differentiation stages;Imprinted gene H19 and Igf2 are modulated by DNA methylation, histone acetylation and insulator CTCF. Finally, we analyzed CR’s combinational modulation pattern by constructing a CR-CR interaction network.
Discovery of a Biological Mechanism of Active Transport through the Tympanic Membrane to the Middle Ear
Authors: Kurabi Arwa , Pak Kwang K. , Bernhardt Marlen , Baird Andrew , Ryan Allen F.
Published: March 2016

Otitis media (OM) is a common pediatric disease for which systemic antibiotics are often prescribed. While local treatment would avoid the systemic treatment side-effects, the tympanic membrane (TM) represents an impenetrable barrier unless surgically breached. We hypothesized that the TM might harbor innate biological mechanisms that could mediate trans-TM transport. We used two M13-bacteriophage display biopanning strategies to search for mediators of trans-TM transport. First, aliquots of linear phage library displaying 1010th 12mer peptides were applied on the TM of rats with active bacterial OM. The middle ear (ME) contents were then harvested, amplified and the preparation re-applied for additional rounds. Second, the same naïve library was sequentially screened for phage exhibiting TM binding, internalization and then transit. Results revealed a novel set of peptides that transit across the TM to the ME in a time and temperature dependent manner. The peptides with highest transport capacities shared sequence similarities. Historically, the TM was viewed as an impermeable barrier. However, our studies reveal that it is possible to translocate peptide-linked small particles across the TM. This is the first comprehensive biopanning for the isolation of TM transiting peptidic ligands. The identified mechanism offers a new drug delivery platform into the ME.
In-situ Observation of Cross-Sectional Microstructural Changes and Stress Distributions in Fracturing TiN Thin Film during Nanoindentation
Authors: Zeilinger Angelika , Todt Juraj , Krywka Christina , Müller Martin , Ecker Werner , Sartory Bernhard , Meindlhumer Michael , Stefenelli Mario , Daniel Rostislav , Mitterer Christian , Keckes Jozef
Published: March 2016

Load-displacement curves measured during indentation experiments on thin films depend on non-homogeneous intrinsic film microstructure and residual stress gradients as well as on their changes during indenter penetration into the material. To date, microstructural changes and local stress concentrations resulting in plastic deformation and fracture were quantified exclusively using numerical models which suffer from poor knowledge of size dependent material properties and the unknown intrinsic gradients. Here, we report the first in-situ characterization of microstructural changes and multi-axial stress distributions in a wedge-indented 9 μm thick nanocrystalline TiN film volume performed using synchrotron cross-sectional X-ray nanodiffraction. During the indentation, needle-like TiN crystallites are tilted up to 15 degrees away from the indenter axis in the imprint area and strongly anisotropic diffraction peak broadening indicates strain variation within the X-ray nanoprobe caused by gradients of giant compressive stresses. The morphology of the multiaxial stress distributions with local concentrations up to −16.5 GPa correlate well with the observed fracture modes. The crack growth is influenced decisively by the film microstructure, especially by the micro- and nano-scopic interfaces. This novel experimental approach offers the capability to interpret indentation response and indenter imprint morphology of small graded nanostructured features.
Formation and Geological Sequestration of Uranium Nanoparticles in Deep Granitic Aquifer
Authors: Suzuki Yohey , Mukai Hiroki , Ishimura Toyoho , Yokoyama Takaomi D. , Sakata Shuhei , Hirata Takafumi , Iwatsuki Teruki , Mizuno Takashi
Published: March 2016

The stimulation of bacterial activities that convert hexavalent uranium, U(VI), to tetravalent uranium, U(IV), appears to be feasible for cost-effective remediation of contaminated aquifers. However, U(VI) reduction typically results in the precipitation of U(IV) particles less than 5 nanometers in diameter, except for environmental conditions enriched with iron. Because these tiny particles are mobile and susceptible to oxidative dissolution after the termination of nutrient injection, in situ bioremediation remains to be impractical. Here we show that U(IV) nanoparticles of coffinite (U(SiO4)1−x(OH)4x) formed in fracture-filling calcium carbonate in a granitic aquifer. In situ U-Pb isotope dating demonstrates that U(IV) nanoparticles have been sequestered in the calcium carbonate for at least 1 million years. As the microbiologically induced precipitation of calcium carbonate in aquifer systems worldwide is extremely common, we anticipate simultaneous stimulation of microbial activities for precipitation reactions of calcium carbonate and U(IV) nanoparticles, which leads to long-term sequestration of uranium and other radionuclides in contaminated aquifers and deep geological repositories.
Controllable chaos in hybrid electro-optomechanical systems
Authors: Wang Mei , Lü Xin-You , Ma Jin-Yong , Xiong Hao , Si Liu-Gang , Wu Ying
Published: March 2016

We investigate the nonlinear dynamics of a hybrid electro-optomechanical system (EOMS) that allows us to realize the controllable opto-mechanical nonlinearity by driving the microwave LC resonator with a tunable electric field. A controllable optical chaos is realized even without changing the optical pumping. The threshold and lifetime of the chaos could be optimized by adjusting the strength, frequency, or phase of the electric field. This study provides a method of manipulating optical chaos with an electric field. It may offer the prospect of exploring the controllable chaos in on-chip optoelectronic devices and its applications in secret communication.
Mechanical insights into ribosomal progression overcoming RNA G-quadruplex from periodical translation suppression in cells
Authors: Endoh Tamaki , Sugimoto Naoki
Published: March 2016

G-quadruplexes formed on DNA and RNA can be roadblocks to movement of polymerases and ribosome on template nucleotides. Although folding and unfolding processes of the G-quadruplexes are deliberately studiedin vitro, how the mechanical and physical properties of the G-quadruplexes affect intracellular biological systems is still unclear. In this study, mRNAs with G-quadruplex forming sequences located either in the 5′ untranslated region (UTR) or in the open reading frame (ORF) were constructed to evaluate positional effects of the G-quadruplex on translation suppression in cells. Periodic fluctuation of translation suppression was observed at every three nucleotides within the ORF but not within the 5′ UTR. The results suggested that difference in motion of ribosome at the 5′ UTR and the ORF determined the ability of the G-quadruplex structure to act as a roadblock to translation in cells and provided mechanical insights into ribosomal progression to overcome the roadblock.
HHV-8-unrelated primary effusion-like lymphoma associated with clonal loss of inherited chromosomally-integrated human herpesvirus-6A from the telomere of chromosome 19q
Authors: Zhang Enjie , Cotton Victoria E. , Hidalgo-Bravo Alberto , Huang Yan , J. Bell Adam , F. Jarrett Ruth , Wilkie Gavin S. , Davison Andrew J. , P. Nacheva Ellie , Siebert Reiner , Majid Aneela , Kelpanides Inga , Jayne Sandrine , Dyer Martin J. , Royle Nicola J.
Published: March 2016

Primary effusion lymphomas (PEL) are associated with human herpesvirus-8 (HHV-8) and usually occur in immunocompromised individuals. However, there are numerous reports of HHV-8-unrelated PEL-like lymphomas with unknown aetiology. Here we characterize an HHV-8-unrelated PEL-like lymphoma in an elderly woman who was negative for human immunodeficiency viruses 1 and 2 and hepatitis B and C. The woman was, however, a carrier of an inherited-chromosomally-integrated human herpesvirus-6A (iciHHV-6A) genome in one 19q telomere. The iciHHV-6A genome was complete in blood DNA, encoding a full set of protein-coding genes. Interestingly, the entire iciHHV-6A genome was absent from the HHV-8-unrelated-PEL-like lymphoma cells despite retention of both copies of chromosome 19. The somatic loss of the 19q-iciHHV-6A genome occurred very early during lymphoma development and we propose it occurred via telomere-loop formation and excision to release a circular viral genome that was subsequently lost. Whether release of the HHV-6A genome from the telomere contributed to lymphomagenesis, or was coincidental, remains unclear but this event may have deregulated the expression of HHV-6A or 19q genes or else disrupted telomere function. To establish the frequency and importance of iciHHV-6 loss from telomeres, the HHV-6 copy number should be assessed in tumours that arise in iciHHV-6 carriers.
Subcortical cytoskeleton periodicity throughout the nervous system
Authors: D’Este Elisa , Kamin Dirk , Velte Caroline , Göttfert Fabian , Simons Mikael , Hell Stefan W.
Published: March 2016

Superresolution fluorescence microscopy recently revealed a ~190 nm periodic cytoskeleton lattice consisting of actin, spectrin and other proteins underneath the membrane of cultured hippocampal neurons. Whether the periodic cytoskeleton lattice is a structural feature of all neurons and how it is modified when axons are ensheathed by myelin forming glial cells is not known. Here, STED nanoscopy is used to demonstrate that this structure is a commonplace of virtually all neuron types in vitro. To check how the subcortical meshwork is modified during myelination, we studied sciatic nerve fibers from adult mice. Periodicity of both actin and spectrin was uncovered at the internodes, indicating no substantial differences between unmyelinated and myelinated axons. Remarkably, the actin/spectrin pattern was also detected in glial cells such as cultured oligodendrocyte precursor cells. Altogether our work shows that the periodic subcortical cytoskeletal meshwork is a fundamental characteristic of cells in the nervous system and is not a distinctive feature of neurons, as previously thought.
Non-coding RNA LINC00473 mediates decidualization of human endometrial stromal cells in response to cAMP signaling
Authors: Liang Xiao-Huan , Deng Wen-Bo , Liu Yue-Fang , Liang Yu-Xiang , Fan Zong-Min , Gu Xiao-Wei , Liu Ji-Long , Sha Ai-Guo , Diao Hong-Lu , Yang Zeng-Ming
Published: March 2016

Decidualization is an essential step in the establishment of pregnancy. However, the functional contributions of long intergenic noncoding RNAs (LincRNAs) to decidualization have not been explored. To explore the regulation and role of LincRNAs during human decidualization, human endometrial stromal cells (HESCs) are induced to undergo in vitro decidualization by treating with estradiol-17β, db-cAMP and medroxyprogesterone acetate. LINC00473 (LINC473) expression is highly induced in HESCs after decidual stimulus. We found that cAMP-PKA pathway regulates the expression of LINC473 through IL-11-mediated STAT3 phosphorylation. RNA interference-mediated down-regulation of LINC473 inhibits in vitro decidualization. These results suggested that LINC473 might be functionally required for human decidualization. This is the first report demonstrating the presence of LincRNA during human decidualization.
Temozolomide-perillyl alcohol conjugate induced reactive oxygen species accumulation contributes to its cytotoxicity against non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Song Xingguo , Xie Li , Wang Xingwu , Zeng Qian , Chen Thomas C. , Wang Weijun , Song Xianrang
Published: March 2016

Temozolomide-perillyl alcohol conjugate (TMZ − POH), a novel temozolomide analog, was reported to play a cytotoxic role in triple-negative breast cancer and TMZ-resistant gliomas. In a current study we had demonstrated how TMZ − POH also exhibited its cytotoxicity against non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the most common type of lung cancer, as evidence from cell/tumor proliferation inhibition, G2/M arrest, DNA damage and mitochondrial apoptosis. Importantly, TMZ − POH’s cytotoxicity is closely related to reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation because it can be reversed by two ROS scavengers, catalase (CAT) and N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC). TMZ − POH induces mitochondrial transmembrane potential (MTP) decrease and ROS accumulation, in turn activates mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPKs) signaling and mitochondrial apoptosis, and then exerts its cytotoxicity, thus proposing TMZ − POH as a potential therapeutic candidate for NSCLC.
Erionite-Na upon heating: dehydration dynamics and exchangeable cations mobility
Authors: Ballirano Paolo , Pacella Alessandro
Published: March 2016

Erionite is a fibrous zeolite significantly more tumorigenic than crocidolite asbestos upon inhalation. In recent years, several papers have been published aimed at characterizing from the crystal-chemical point of view erionite fibres. As their toxicity has been ascribed to Fe acquired within the human body, studies aimed at characterizing the iron topochemistry have also been published, suggesting a possible important role played by the ionic exchange properties and cations mobility of this zeolite on developing carcinogenicity. Here we report the analysis results of the thermal behaviour of erionite-Na, which has been found to deviate significantly from that of erionite-K. This result is in contrast with the current scientific view that differences in weighted ionic potential, Si/Al ratio and size of exchangeable cations result in significantly different thermal behaviours, all those parameters being nearly identical or very similar in both species. The different mobility of the extraframework cations observed in erionite samples with dissimilar chemistry is of particular interest within the frame of the hypothesis that their biological activity could depend, apart from surface interactions, also on bulk effects.
Covalent immobilization of metal–organic frameworks onto the surface of nylon—a new approach to the functionalization and coloration of textiles
Authors: Yu Ming , Li Wanxin , Wang Ziqiang , Zhang Bowu , Ma Hongjuan , Li Linfan , Li Jingye
Published: March 2016

The prevention of refractory organic pollution caused by conventional dyeing and the development of new fabrics with various functions are two issues to be solved urgently in the field of textile fabrication. Here, we report a new environmentally friendly route for the simultaneous coloration and functionalization of textiles by the covalent immobilization of a metal–organic framework, Cr-based MIL-101(Cr), onto the surfaces of nylon fabrics by co-graft polymerization with 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate initiated by γ-ray irradiation. The Cr(III) clusters color the nylon fabric, and the color intensity varies with the MIL-101 content, providing a “green” textile coloration method that is different from conventional dyeing processes. An X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis shows that the nanoporous structure of the original MIL-101 particles is retained during radiation-induced graft polymerization. Numerous nanopores are introduced onto the surface of the nylon fabric, which demonstrated better sustained-release-of-aroma performance versus pristine nylon fabric in tests. The modified fabrics exhibit laundering durability, with MIL-101 nanoparticles intact on the nylon surface after 30 h of dry cleaning.
Genetic scores of smoking behaviour in a Chinese population
Authors: Yang Shanshan , He Yao , Wang Jianhua , Wang Yiyan , Wu Lei , Zeng Jing , Liu Miao , Zhang Di , Jiang Bin , Li Xiaoying
Published: March 2016

This study sought to structure a genetic score for smoking behaviour in a Chinese population. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) were evaluated in a community-representative sample (N = 3,553) of Beijing, China. The candidate SNPs were tested in four genetic models (dominance model, recessive model, heterogeneous codominant model and additive model) and 7 SNPs were selected to structure a genetic score. A total of 3,553 participants (1,477 males and 2,076 females) completed the survey. Using the unweighted score, we found that participants with a high genetic score had a 34% higher risk of trying smoking and a 43% higher risk of SI at ≤18 years of age after adjusting for age, gender, education, occupation, ethnicity, body mass index (BMI) and sports activity time. The unweighted genetic scores were chosen to best extrapolate and understand these results. Importantly, genetic score was significantly associated with smoking behaviour (smoking status and SI at ≤18 years of age). These results have the potential to guide relevant health education for individuals with high genetic scores and promote the process of smoking control to improve the health of the population.
Antifungal activity, kinetics and molecular mechanism of action of garlic oil against Candida albicans
Authors: Li Wen-Ru , Shi Qing-Shan , Dai Huan-Qin , Liang Qing , Xie Xiao-Bao , Huang Xiao-Mo , Zhao Guang-Ze , Zhang Li-Xin
Published: March 2016

The antifungal activity, kinetics and molecular mechanism of action of garlic oil againstCandida albicanswere investigated in this study using multiple methods. Using the poisoned food technique, we determined that the minimum inhibitory concentration of garlic oil was 0.35 μg/mL. Observation by transmission electron microscopy indicated that garlic oil could penetrate the cellular membrane ofC. albicansas well as the membranes of organelles such as the mitochondria, resulting in organelle destruction and ultimately cell death. RNA sequencing analysis showed that garlic oil induced differential expression of critical genes including those involved in oxidation-reduction processes, pathogenesis and cellular response to drugs and starvation. Moreover, the differentially expressed genes were mainly clustered in 19 KEGG pathways, representing vital cellular processes such as oxidative phosphorylation, the spliceosome, the cell cycle and protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum. In addition, four upregulated proteins selected after two-dimensional fluorescence difference in gel electrophoresis (2D-DIGE) analysis were identified with high probability by mass spectrometry as putative cytoplasmic adenylate kinase, pyruvate decarboxylase, hexokinase and heat shock proteins. This is suggestive of aC. albicansstress responses to garlic oil treatment. On the other hand, a large number of proteins were downregulated, leading to significant disruption of the normal metabolism and physical functions ofC. albicans.
Immobilizing photogenerated electrons from graphitic carbon nitride for an improved visible-light photocatalytic activity
Authors: Sun Han , Cao Yue , Feng Leiyu , Chen Yinguang
Published: March 2016

Reducing the recombination probability of photogenerated electrons and holes is pivotal in enhancing the photocatalytic ability of graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4). Speeding the departure of photogenerated electrons is the most commonly used method of achieving this. To the best of our knowledge, there is no report on suppressing the recombination of photogenerated electron–hole pairs by immobilizing the electrons with ester functional groups. Here, for the first time the mesoporous g-C3N4 (mpg-C3N4) was integrated with polymethyl methacrylate, a polymer abundant in ester groups, which showed a photocatalytic activity unexpectedly higher than that of the original mpg-C3N4 under visible-light irradiation. Experimental observations, along with theoretical calculations, clarified that the impressive photocatalytic ability of the as-modified mpg-C3N4 was mainly derived from the immobilization of photogenerated electrons via an electron-gripping effect imposed by the ester groups in the polymethyl methacrylate. This novel strategy might also be applied in improving the photocatalytic performance of other semiconductors.
Novel Slide-Ring Material/Natural Rubber Composites with High Damping Property
Authors: Wang Wencai , Zhao Detao , Yang Jingna , Nishi Toshio , Ito Kohzo , Zhao Xiuying , Zhang Liqun
Published: March 2016

A novel class of polymers called “slide-ring” (SR) materials with slideable junctions were used for high damping composites for the first time. The SR acts as the high damping phase dispersed in the natural rubber (NR) matrix, and epoxidized natural rubber (ENR) acts as the compatibilizer. The morphological, structural, and mechanical properties of the composites were investigated by atomic force microscope (AFM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), dynamic mechanical thermal analyzer (DMTA), rubber processing analyzer (RPA), and tensile tester. AFM and TEM results showed that the SR phase was uniformly dispersed in the composites, in a small size that is a function of ENR. DMTA and RPA results showed that the damping factor of the composites is much higher than that of NR, especially at room temperatures. Stretch hysteresis was used to study the energy dissipation of the composites at large strains. The results showed that SR and ENR can significantly improve the dissipation efficiency at strains lower than 200% strain. Wide-angle X-ray diffraction was used to study the strain-induced crystallization of the composites. The results indicated that the impact of the SR on the crystallization of NR is mitigated by the insulating effect of ENR.
Soil gross nitrogen transformations along the Northeast China Transect (NECT) and their response to simulated rainfall events
Authors: Zhang Jin-bo , Wang Liang , Zhao Wei , Hu Hui-feng , Feng Xiao-juan , Müller Christoph , Cai Zu-cong
Published: March 2016

Climate changes are predicted to increase extreme rainfall events in semiarid and arid region in Northern Hemisphere. Nutrient cycles will be affected by the precipitation changes but so far only very little is known how soil N transformations may respond. Here we investigated gross soil N transformation rates and their response to simulated rainfall events across Northeast China Transect (NECT). The results showed that gross N mineralisation rate, nitrification rate and nitrification to mineralisation ratio significantly increased as the humidity index decreased along NECT, resulting in NO3− as the predominant inorganic N form. These characteristics could increase the risk of NO3− losses but at the same time reduce the risk of N losses via volatilization in the semiarid and arid region. The soil-plant ecosystems have developed effective N conservation strategies in the long term with respect to the prevailing climate in arid region. However, compared to humid soils more dramatic changes of soil N transformation rates are likely to occur in arid soils, after sudden soil moisture increases. Soil N conservation mechanisms in arid regions were drastically affected when the heavy rainfall frequently occurred. Arid ecosystems are expected to be more vulnerable than humid ecosystems in response to extreme rainfall events.
Rapid prototyping of electrochemical lateral flow devices: stencilled electrodes
Authors: Aller Pellitero Miguel , Kitsara Maria , Eibensteiner Friedrich , del Campo F. Javier
Published: March 2016

A straightforward and very cost effective method is proposed to prototype electrodes using pressure sensitive adhesives and a simple cutting technique. The prototyping approach presented here is highly suitable for the development of novel electroanalytical tools.
Photon-absorbing charge-bridging states in organic bulk heterojunctions consisting of diketopyrrolopyrrole derivatives and PCBM
Authors: Fujii Mikiya , Shin Woong , Yasuda Takuma , Yamashita Koichi
Published: March 2016

We have investigated the photo- and electrochemical properties of five diketopyrrolopyrrole (DPP) derivatives both experimentally and theoretically.
Removal of TcO4− ions from solution: materials and future outlook
Authors: Banerjee Debasis , Kim Dongsang , Schweiger Michael J. , Kruger Albert A. , Thallapally Praveen K.
Published: March 2016

The possibility of using ionic metal organic frameworks (i-MOFs) and related materials as next-generation ion exchange materials.
Challenges in assignment of orbital populations in a high spin manganese(iii) complex
Authors: Fitzpatrick A. J. , Stepanovic S. , Müller-Bunz H. , Gruden-Pavlović M. A. , García-Fernández P. , Morgan G. G.
Published: March 2016

Magnetic, structural and computational data of four complex salts with the same mononuclear high spin octahedral Mn(iii) complex cation are reported.
Hydrodealkoxylation reactions of silyl ligands at platinum: reactivity of SiH3and SiH2Me complexes
Authors: Mitzenheim Cathérine , Braun Thomas , Laubenstein Reik , Braun Beatrice , Herrmann Roy
Published: March 2016

The platinum(ii) complex [Pt(H)2(dcpe)] reacts with an excess of the dialkoxymethylsilanes (HSiMe(OR)2; R = Me, Et) to give [Pt(SiH2Me)2(dcpe)] by hydrodealkoxylation reactions. SiH2Me2can be obtained after metal–silicon bond cleavage.
Analyses of methyltransferases across the pathogenicity spectrum of different mycobacterial species point to an extremophile connection
Authors: Grover Sonam , Gupta Paras , Kahlon Parvinderdeep S. , Goyal Sukriti , Grover Abhinav , Dalal Kuldeep , Sabeeha Sabeeha , Ehtesham Nasreen Z. , Hasnain Seyed E.
Published: March 2016

Tuberculosis is a devastating disease, taking one human life every 20 seconds globally.
Designing hyperbranched polymers for gene delivery
Authors: Mou Quanbing , Ma Yuan , Jin Xin , Zhu Xinyuan
Published: March 2016

This review summarizes the main barriers of gene delivery, control of properties and recent progress of hyperbranched polymers for gene delivery.
Reproducible shape control of single-crystal SnO micro particles
Authors: Nguyen Mai Thanh , Shirai Hiroaki , Tiankanon Chondanai , Tsukamoto Hiroki , Ishida Yohei , Yonezawa Tetsu
Published: March 2016

A straightforward method for synthesizing well-defined four-petal starfish-like single-crystalline SnO micro particles in an organic medium with various oleylamine concentrations was examined.
A wafer-scale Bernal-stacked bilayer graphene film obtained on a dilute Cu (0.61 at% Ni) foil using atmospheric pressure chemical vapour deposition
Authors: Madito M. J. , Manyala N. , Bello A. , Dangbegnon J. K. , Masikhwa T. M. , Momodu D. Y.
Published: March 2016

A wafer-scale (scale of an entire foil) AB-stacked bilayer graphene film obtained on a dilute Cu(Ni) foil using AP-CVD.
A green technology for the synthesis of cellulose succinate for efficient adsorption of Cd(ii) and Pb(ii) ions
Authors: Qin Xingzhen , Zhou Jierong , Huang Aimin , Guan Jialin , Zhang Qinglong , Huang Zuqiang , Hu Huayu , Zhang Yanjuan , Yang Mei , Wu Juan , Qin Yuben , Feng Zhenfei
Published: March 2016

Cellulose succinate, directly prepared by a simple and green mechanical activation-assisted solid-phase synthesis method in a stirring ball mill, was used as environmental-friendly adsorbent for efficient adsorption of heavy metals.
The effects of TiC@AlOOH core–shell nanoparticles on the dielectric properties of PVDF based nanocomposites
Authors: Ling Weng , Hongxia Li , Peihai Ju , Ting Wang , Lizhu Liu
Published: March 2016

The dielectric constant of PVDF/TiC@AlOOH nanocomposite films is as high as 1.8 × 107 at 100 Hz.
A cobalt Schiff base complex on TiO2nanoparticles as an effective synergistic nanocatalyst for aerobic C–H oxidation
Authors: Jafarpour Maasoumeh , Kargar Hossein , Rezaeifard Abdolreza
Published: March 2016

A cobalt Schiff base complex on TiO2nanoparticles possess excellent photocatalytic properties under visible light for the aerobic benzylic C–H oxidation.
A strategy to achieve enhanced electromagnetic interference shielding at ultra-low concentration of multiwall carbon nanotubes in PαMSAN/PMMA blends in the presence of a random copolymer PS-r-PMMA
Authors: Bose Suryasarathi , Sharma Maya , Bharati Avanish , Moldenaers Paula , Cardinaels Ruth
Published: March 2016

Mediated by the PS-r-PMMA, the MWNTs were mostly localized at the interface and bridged the PMMA droplets. This strategy led to enhance EMI shielding effectiveness at 0.25 wt% MWNTs through multiple scattering from MWNT covered droplets.
The efficacy of interactive analogical models in the instruction of bond energy curves in undergraduate chemistry
Authors: Shahani Vijay M. , Jenkinson Jodie
Published: March 2016

We explored analogies used for introducing students to the concept of potential energy wells. Two analogy systems were developed, a spring system and a novel system consisting of electrostatic spheres. These two, distinct analogies were housed within an interactive tool that allowed students to manipulate the analogous systems and witness changes to potential energy curves in real time. A pre-test/post-test evaluation provided insight into the impact the formulation of an analogy system can have on understanding. Students modified written descriptions to include new details in accordance to the structure-mapping theory of analogies. However, students failed to correct visual descriptions of energy wells. The failure of participants to apply key concepts after using the interactive and animated analogy systems highlights the importance of designing for education.
Using graphene oxide as a sacrificial support of polyoxotitanium clusters to replicate its two-dimensionality on pure titania photocatalysts
Authors: Eslava Salvador , Reynal Anna , Rocha Victoria G. , Barg Suelen , Saiz Eduardo
Published: March 2016

Here we reveal that graphene oxide flakes, known for their nano- and two-dimensionality, can be used as a sacrificial support to replicate their nano- and two-dimensionality in photocatalytic titania using the Ti16O16(OEt)32polyoxotitanium cluster as a precursor.
Oxygen vacancy formation characteristics in the bulk and across different surface terminations of La(1−x)SrxFe(1−y)CoyO(3−δ) perovskite oxides for CO2 conversion
Authors: Maiti Debtanu , Daza Yolanda A. , Yung Matthew M. , Kuhn John N. , Bhethanabotla Venkat R.
Published: March 2016

Oxygen vacancy formation energies and CO2 adsorption strengths on La0.5Sr0.5BO3 (B = Fe or Co) type of perovskite oxides.
Porous TiN nanoparticles embedded in a N-doped carbon composite derived from metal–organic frameworks as a superior anode in lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Xiu Zhiliang , Kim Dongyun , Alfaruqi Muhammad Hilmy , Gim Jihyeon , Song Jinju , Kim Sungjin , Duong Pham Tung , Baboo Joseph Paul , Mathew Vinod , Kim Jaekook
Published: March 2016

Porous TiN nanoparticles embedded in a N-doped carbon composite exhibit superior electrochemical performance as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries.
Conductive and protein resistant polypyrrole films for dexamethasone delivery
Authors: Zhang B. , Molino P. J. , Harris A. R. , Yue Z. , Moulton S. E. , Wallace G. G.
Published: March 2016

The development of inherently conducting polymers as controllable/programmable drug delivery systems has attracted significant interest in medical bionics, and the interfacial properties of the polymers, in particular, protein adsorption characteristics, is integral to the stability of the overall performance.
Ring-opening metathesis polymerization of 1,2-disubstituted cyclopropenes
Authors: Elling Benjamin R. , Su Jessica K. , Xia Yan
Published: March 2016

We report the first study of ROMP of 1,2-CPs, which yielded narrowly dispersed polymers but exhibited a surprising slow termination reaction.
Copper-catalyzed oxidative coupling between quinazoline 3-oxides and unactivated aldehydes: an efficient approach to functionalized quinazolines
Authors: Fan Liwen , Wang Tao , Tian Ying , Xiong Fei , Wu Simei , Liang Qingjin , Zhao Junfeng
Published: March 2016

The first copper-catalyzed oxidative coupling between quinazoline 3-oxides and unactivated aldehydes was described.
Chiroptical switching caused by crystalline/liquid crystalline phase transition of a chiral bowl-shaped molecule
Authors: Yamamura Masaki , Sukegawa Kimiya , Okada Daichi , Yamamoto Yohei , Nabeshima Tatsuya
Published: March 2016

The liquid crystal of a chiral bowl-shaped molecule having a central-phosphorus atom and long alkyl chains was developed.
Seven entangled coordination polymers assembled from triphenylamine-based bisimidazole and dicarboxylates: interpenetration, self-penetration and mixed entanglement
Authors: Guo Xianmin , Yan Yongnian , Guo Huadong , Qi Yanjuan , Liu Chunming
Published: March 2016

Seven entangled coordination polymers constructed from a triphenylamine-based bisimidazole and carboxylic acids have been synthesized and characterized.
Palladium-atom catalyzed formic acid decomposition and the switch of reaction mechanism with temperature
Authors: He Nan , Li Zhen Hua
Published: March 2016

We carefully calculated the mechanism of one-atom model and its poisoned species, PdCO, as formic acid decomposition catalysts.
The crystallization of metal soaps and fatty acids in oil paint model systems
Authors: Hermans Joen J. , Keune Katrien , Loon Annelies van , Iedema Piet D.
Published: March 2016

We have studied the solubility and crystallization kinetics of metal soaps and fatty acids in linseed oil to help understand an important issue in oil painting conservation.