bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Atomic Scale Structural Characterization of Epitaxial (Cd,Cr)Te Magnetic Semiconductor
Authors: Bonef Bastien , Boukari Hervé , Grenier Adeline , Mouton Isabelle , Jouneau Pierre-Henri , Kinjo Hidekazu , Kuroda Shinji
Published: June 2017

A detailed knowledge of the atomic structure of magnetic semiconductors is crucial to understanding their electronic and magnetic properties, which could enable spintronic applications. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDX) in the scanning transmission electron microscope and atom probe tomography (APT) experiments reveal the formation of Cr-rich regions in Cd1−xCrxTe layers grown by molecular beam epitaxy. These Cr-rich regions occur on a length scale of 6–10 nm at a nominal Cr composition of x=0.034 and evolve toward an ellipsoidal shape oriented along <111> directions at a composition of x=0.083. Statistical analysis of the APT reconstructed volume reveals that the Cr aggregation increases with the average Cr composition. The correlation with the magnetic properties of such (Cd,Cr)Te layers is discussed within the framework of strongly inhomogeneous materials. Finally, difficulties in accurately quantifying the Cr distribution in the CdTe matrix on an atomic scale by EDX and APT are discussed.
What Do We Know About Psychological Outcomes of Lymphoma in	Adults?
Authors: Mojs Ewa , Warchoł-Biedermann Katarzyna , Samborski Włodzimierz
Published: June 2017

Abstract. The goal of this review is to present the results of research on the influence of lymphoma on patients’ emotional status and cognitive functioning. A literature search was conducted to identify articles in English that investigated short- and long-term psychological outcomes of lymphoma and lymphoma treatment. Studies published prior to July 2016 were located by an electronic search using relevant databases such as ScienceDirect and PubMed. The search terms used included both medical subject headings and keywords such as “Hodgkin lymphoma,” “non-Hodgkin lymphoma,” “therapy,” “treatment,” “malignant,” “psychology,” “cognitive function,” “emotion,” “psychological adaptation,” “depression,” and “anxiety.” The retrieved publications were independently evaluated by two reviewers. Articles were selected based on the applicable titles and abstracts. The lists of eligible publications were compared and disagreements were resolved by discussion. Of the 1,418 articles identified in the search, we chose 39 publications, which in our opinion could be interesting or useful for psychologists. Studies show that lymphoma and its treatment lead to severe distress. Thirty-six percent of patients manifest symptoms of anxiety and depression, which are most often associated with the so-called “B-symptoms,” which mark poor prognosis or with side effects of chemotherapy such as nausea or vomiting. Reports also indicate that lymphoma patients may develop mild to severe cognitive decline. Its manifestations may range from benign problems with attention, thinking, and memory to severe cognitive impairment, that is, subcortical dementia. The etiology of intellectual deterioration in lymphoma has not been well described yet, but it may be related to the disease process or to the treatment. Additionally, literature demonstrates that lymphoma may lead to adverse changes in patient’s professional life such as resignation or early retirement.
Open-source, community-driven microfluidics with Metafluidics
Authors: Kong David S , Thorsen Todd A , Babb Jonathan , Wick Scott T , Gam Jeremy J , Weiss Ron , Carr Peter A
Published: June 2017

Microfluidic devices have the potential to automate and miniaturize biological experiments, but open-source sharing of device designs has lagged behind sharing of other resources such as software. Synthetic biologists have used microfluidics for DNA assembly, cell-free expression, and cell culture, but a combination of expense, device complexity, and reliance on custom set-ups hampers their widespread adoption. We present Metafluidics, an open-source, community-driven repository that hosts digital design files, assembly specifications, and open-source software to enable users to build, configure, and operate a microfluidic device. We use Metafluidics to share designs and fabrication instructions for both a microfluidic ring-mixer device and a 32-channel tabletop microfluidic controller. This device and controller are applied to build genetic circuits using standard DNA assembly methods including ligation, Gateway, Gibson, and Golden Gate. Metafluidics is intended to enable a broad community of engineers, DIY enthusiasts, and other nontraditional participants with limited fabrication skills to contribute to microfluidic research.
Astronomical pacing of the global silica cycle recorded in Mesozoic bedded cherts
Authors: Ikeda Masayuki , Tada Ryuji , Ozaki Kazumi
Published: June 2017

The global silica cycle is an important component of the long-term climate system, yet its controlling factors are largely uncertain due to poorly constrained proxy records. Here we present a ∼70 Myr-long record of early Mesozoic biogenic silica (BSi) flux from radiolarian chert in Japan. Average low-mid-latitude BSi burial flux in the superocean Panthalassa is ∼90% of that of the modern global ocean and relative amplitude varied by ∼20–50% over the 100 kyr to 30 Myr orbital cycles during the early Mesozoic. We hypothesize that BSi in chert was a major sink for oceanic dissolved silica (DSi), with fluctuations proportional to DSi input from chemical weathering on timescales longer than the residence time of DSi (<∼100 Kyr). Chemical weathering rates estimated by the GEOCARBSULFvolc model support these hypotheses, excluding the volcanism-driven oceanic anoxic events of the Early-Middle Triassic and Toarcian that exceed model limits. We propose that the Mega monsoon of the supercontinent Pangea nonlinearly amplified the orbitally paced chemical weathering that drove BSi burial during the early Mesozoic greenhouse world.
Variation in auxin sensing guides AUX/IAA transcriptional repressor ubiquitylation and destruction
Authors: Winkler Martin , Niemeyer Michael , Hellmuth Antje , Janitza Philipp , Christ Gideon , Samodelov Sophia L. , Wilde Verona , Majovsky Petra , Trujillo Marco , Zurbriggen Matias D. , Hoehenwarter Wolfgang , Quint Marcel , Calderón Villalobos Luz Irina A.
Published: June 2017

Auxin is a small molecule morphogen that bridges SCFTIR1/AFB-AUX/IAA co-receptor interactions leading to ubiquitylation and proteasome-dependent degradation of AUX/IAA transcriptional repressors. Here, we systematically dissect auxin sensing by SCFTIR1-IAA6 and SCFTIR1-IAA19 co-receptor complexes, and assess IAA6/IAA19 ubiquitylation in vitro and IAA6/IAA19 degradation in vivo. We show that TIR1-IAA19 and TIR1-IAA6 have distinct auxin affinities that correlate with ubiquitylation and turnover dynamics of the AUX/IAA. We establish a system to track AUX/IAA ubiquitylation in IAA6 and IAA19 in vitro and show that it occurs in flexible hotspots in degron-flanking regions adorned with specific Lys residues. We propose that this signature is exploited during auxin-mediated SCFTIR1-AUX/IAA interactions. We present evidence for an evolving AUX/IAA repertoire, typified by the IAA6/IAA19 ohnologues, that discriminates the range of auxin concentrations found in plants. We postulate that the intrinsic flexibility of AUX/IAAs might bias their ubiquitylation and destruction kinetics enabling specific auxin responses.
Misfolded polypeptides are selectively recognized and transported toward aggresomes by a CED complex
Authors: Park Joori , Park Yeonkyoung , Ryu Incheol , Choi Mi-Hyun , Lee Hyo Jin , Oh Nara , Kim Kyutae , Kim Kyoung Mi , Choe Junho , Lee Cheolju , Baik Ja-Hyun , Kim Yoon Ki
Published: June 2017

Misfolded polypeptides are rapidly cleared from cells via the ubiquitin–proteasome system (UPS). However, when the UPS is impaired, misfolded polypeptides form small cytoplasmic aggregates, which are sequestered into an aggresome and ultimately degraded by aggrephagy. Despite the relevance of the aggresome to neurodegenerative proteinopathies, the molecular mechanisms underlying aggresome formation remain unclear. Here we show that the CTIF–eEF1A1–DCTN1 (CED) complex functions in the surveillance of either pre-existing or newly synthesized polypeptides by linking two molecular events: selective recognition and aggresomal targeting of misfolded polypeptides. These events are accompanied by CTIF sequestration into the aggresome, preventing the additional synthesis of misfolded polypeptides from mRNAs bound by nuclear cap-binding complex. These events render cells more resistant to apoptosis induced by proteotoxic stresses. Collectively, our data provide compelling evidence for a previously unappreciated protein surveillance pathway and a regulatory gene expression network for coping with misfolded polypeptides.
Dissemination of antibiotic resistance genes from antibiotic producers to pathogens
Authors: Jiang Xinglin , Ellabaan Mostafa M. Hashim , Charusanti Pep , Munck Christian , Blin Kai , Tong Yaojun , Weber Tilmann , Sommer Morten O. A. , Lee Sang Yup
Published: June 2017

It has been hypothesized that some antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) found in pathogenic bacteria derive from antibiotic-producing actinobacteria. Here we provide bioinformatic and experimental evidence supporting this hypothesis. We identify genes in proteobacteria, including some pathogens, that appear to be closely related to actinobacterial ARGs known to confer resistance against clinically important antibiotics. Furthermore, we identify two potential examples of recent horizontal transfer of actinobacterial ARGs to proteobacterial pathogens. Based on this bioinformatic evidence, we propose and experimentally test a ‘carry-back’ mechanism for the transfer, involving conjugative transfer of a carrier sequence from proteobacteria to actinobacteria, recombination of the carrier sequence with the actinobacterial ARG, followed by natural transformation of proteobacteria with the carrier-sandwiched ARG. Our results support the existence of ancient and, possibly, recent transfers of ARGs from antibiotic-producing actinobacteria to proteobacteria, and provide evidence for a defined mechanism.
Compartmentalized 3D Tissue Culture Arrays under Controlled Microfluidic Delivery
Authors: Gumuscu Burcu , Albers Hugo J. , van den Berg Albert , Eijkel Jan C. T. , van der Meer Andries D.
Published: June 2017

We demonstrate an in vitro microfluidic cell culture platform that consists of periodic 3D hydrogel compartments with controllable shapes. The microchip is composed of approximately 500 discontinuous collagen gel compartments locally patterned in between PDMS pillars, separated by microfluidic channels. The typical volume of each compartment is 7.5 nanoliters. The compartmentalized design of the microchip and continuous fluid delivery enable long-term culturing of Caco-2 human intestine cells. We found that the cells started to spontaneously grow into 3D folds on day 3 of the culture. On day 8, Caco-2 cells were co-cultured for 36 hours under microfluidic perfusion with intestinal bacteria (E. coli) which did not overgrow in the system, and adhered to the Caco-2 cells without affecting cell viability. Continuous perfusion enabled the preliminary evaluation of drug effects by treating the co-culture of Caco-2 and E. coli with 34 µg ml−1 chloramphenicol during 36 hours, resulting in the death of the bacteria. Caco-2 cells were also cultured in different compartment geometries with large and small hydrogel interfaces, leading to differences in proliferation and cell spreading profile of Caco-2 cells. The presented approach of compartmentalized cell culture with facile microfluidic control can substantially increase the throughput of in vitro drug screening in the future.
The correlation between the expression of genes involved in drug metabolism and the blood level of tacrolimus in liver transplant receipts
Authors: Wang Jianhai , Li Keqiu , Zhang Xiaoning , Teng Dahong , Ju Mingyan , Jing Yaqing , Zhao Yuxia , Li Guang
Published: June 2017

Immunosuppressive medications, such as tacrolimus and mycophenolate mofetil, are commonly used for reducing the risk of organ rejection in receipts of allogeneic organ transplant. The optimal dosages of these drugs are required for preventing rejection and avoiding toxicity to receipts. This study aimed to identify the correlation between the expression profiling of genes involved in drug metabolism and the blood level of tacrolimus in liver transplant receipts. Sixty-four liver transplant receipts were enrolled in this retrospective study. Receipts were divided into low (2–5.9 ng/ml) and high (6–15 ng/ml) tacrolimus groups. Clinical assessment showed that the blood level of tacrolimus was inversely correlated with the liver function evaluated by blood levels of total bilirubin and creatinine. Compared to the high tacrolimus group, expression levels of six cytochrome P450 enzymes, CYP1A1, CYP2B6, CYP3A5, CYP4A11, CYP19A1, and CYP17A1 were significantly higher in the low tacrolimus group. The expression levels of these genes were negatively correlated with the tacrolimus blood level. Enzyme assays showed that CYP3A5 and CYP17A1 exerted direct metabolic effects on tacrolimus and mycophenolate mofetil, respectively. These results support clinical application of this expression profiling of genes in drug metabolism for selection of immunosuppressive medications and optimal dosages for organ transplant receipts.
Variable thermal expansion of glass-ceramics containing Ba1−xSrxZn2Si2O7
Authors: Thieme Christian , Schlesier Martin , Oji Dike Eze , Rüssel Christian
Published: June 2017

Up to now, the thermal expansion behavior of multiphase glass-ceramics cannot be predicted reliably because of the nescience about the formation of the type and concentration of crystalline phases. In the system BaO-SrO-ZnO-SiO2, recently a new phase based on Ba1−xSrxZn2Si2O7 solid solutions was found, which exhibits unexpected low and highly anisotropic thermal expansion, which can be used for an adjustment of the thermal expansion properties. In the case of sealing materials for high-temperature reactors, the formation of this phase should be avoided. Hence, in this manuscript the concentration thresholds in which these solid solutions precipitate from glasses were determined. The phase analysis was correlated with the thermal expansion behavior of the glass-ceramics. Depending on the Ba/Sr-ratio of the glasses and the considered temperature range, the coefficients of thermal expansion of the glass-ceramics vary between 19.4·10−6 K−1 and 4.8·10−6 K−1. The concentration thresholds in which the as mentioned phases form via crystallization of glasses differ strongly from the literature values obtained via conventional ceramic mixed oxide route.
Deep-sequencing of Marburg virus genome during sequential mouse passaging and cell-culture adaptation reveals extensive changes over time
Authors: Wei Haiyan , Audet Jonathan , Wong Gary , He Shihua , Huang Xueyong , Cutts Todd , Theriault Steven , Xu Bianli , Kobinger Gary , Qiu Xiangguo
Published: June 2017

Marburg virus (MARV) has caused outbreaks of filoviral hemorrhagic fever since its discovery in 1967. The largest and deadliest outbreak occurred in Angola in 2005, with 252 cases and 227 deaths. In 2014, we developed a mouse-adapted MARV, Angola variant through serial passaging in mice. The mouse-adapted MARV exhibits many of the hallmarks of MARV disease in humans. By applying deep-sequencing to every passage of the virus, we are able to study virus evolution in this host with surprising precision. We show that two regions go through substantial changes: the intergenic region between NP and VP35, as well as the first 100 amino acids of the VP40 protein. Our results also reveal that there were profound changes during the production of the final virus stock in cell culture. Overall, our results show that a handful of regions carry most of the mutations acquired during the adaptation of the virus to a new host and that many mutations become fixed very early during the adaptation process.
New insight into the function of wheat glutenin proteins as investigated with two series of genetic mutants
Authors: Wang Zhaojun , Li Yiwen , Yang Yushuang , Liu Xin , Qin Huanju , Dong Zhenying , Zheng Shuhai , Zhang Kunpu , Wang Daowen
Published: June 2017

Among the three major food crops (rice, wheat and maize), wheat is unique in accumulating gluten proteins in its grains. Of these proteins, the high and low molecular weight glutenin subunits (HMW-GSs and LMW-GSs) form glutenin macropolymers that are vital for the diverse end-uses of wheat grains. In this work, we developed a new series of deletion mutants lacking one or two of the threeGlu-1loci (Glu-A1,-B1and -D1) specifying HMW-GSs. Comparative analysis of single and double deletion mutants reinforced the suggestion thatGlu-D1(encoding the HMW-GSs 1Dx2 and 1Dy12) has the largest effects on the parameters related to gluten and dough functionalities and breadmaking quality. Consistent with this suggestion, the deletion mutants lackingGlu-D1or its combination withGlu-A1orGlu-B1generally exhibited strong decreases in functional glutenin macropolymers (FGMPs) and in the incorporation of HMW-GSs and LMW-GSs into FGMPs. Further examination of two knockout mutants missing 1Dx2 or 1Dy12 showed that 1Dx2 was clearly more effective than 1Dy12 in promoting FGMPs by enabling the incorporation of more HMW-GSs and LMW-GSs into FGMPs. The new insight obtained and the mutants developed by us may aid further research on the control of wheat end-use quality by glutenin proteins.
Strong 3D and 1D magnetism in hexagonal Fe-chalcogenides FeS and FeSe vs. weak magnetism in hexagonal FeTe
Authors: Parker David S.
Published: June 2017

We present a comparative theoretical study of the hexagonal forms of the Fe-chalcogenides FeS, FeSe and FeTe with their better known tetragonal forms. While the tetragonal forms exhibit only an incipient antiferromagnetism and experimentally show superconductivity when doped, the hexagonal forms of FeS and FeSe display a robust magnetism. We show that this strong magnetism arises from a van Hove singularity associated with the direct Fe-Fe c-axis chains in the generally more three-dimensional NiAs structure. We also find that hexagonal FeTe is much less magnetic than the other two hexagonal materials, so that unconventional magnetically-mediated superconductivity is possible, although a large T
c
value is unlikely.
Fiber Optic Sensor for Real-Time Sensing of Silica Scale Formation in Geothermal Water
Authors: Okazaki Takuya , Orii Tatsuya , Ueda Akira , Ozawa Akiko , Kuramitz Hideki
Published: June 2017

We present a novel fiber optic sensor for real-time sensing of silica scale formation in geothermal water. The sensor is fabricated by removing the cladding of a multimode fiber to expose the core to detect the scale-formation-induced refractive index change. A simple experimental setup was constructed to measure the transmittance response using white light as a source and a spectroscopy detector. A field test was performed on geothermal water containing 980 mg/L dissolved silica at 93 °C in Sumikawa Geothermal Power Plant, Japan. The transmittance response of the fiber sensor decreased due to the formation of silica scale on the fiber core from geothermal water. An application of this sensor in the evaluation of scale inhibitors was demonstrated. In geothermal water containing a pH modifier, the change of transmittance response decreased with pH decrease. The effectiveness of a polyelectrolyte inhibitor in prevention of silica scale formation was easily detectable using the fiber sensor in geothermal water.
Capacity limit for faster-than-Nyquist non-orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing signaling
Authors: Zhou Ji , Qiao Yaojun , Yang Zhanyu , Cheng Qixiang , Wang Qi , Guo Mengqi , Tang Xizi
Published: June 2017

Faster-than-Nyquist (FTN) signal achieves higher spectral efficiency and capacity compared to Nyquist signal due to its smaller pulse interval or narrower subcarrier spacing. Shannon limit typically defines the upper-limit capacity of Nyquist signal. To the best of our knowledge, the mathematical expression for the capacity limit of FTN non-orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (NOFDM) signal is first demonstrated in this paper. The mathematical expression shows that FTN NOFDM signal has the potential to achieve a higher capacity limit compared to Nyquist signal. In this paper, we demonstrate the principle of FTN NOFDM by taking fractional cosine transform-based NOFDM (FrCT-NOFDM) for instance. FrCT-NOFDM is first proposed and implemented by both simulation and experiment. When the bandwidth compression factor α is set to 0.8 in FrCT-NOFDM, the subcarrier spacing is equal to 40% of the symbol rate per subcarrier, thus the transmission rate is about 25% faster than Nyquist rate. FTN NOFDM with higher capacity would be promising in the future communication systems, especially in the bandwidth-limited applications.
In-situ Electrodeposition of Highly Active Silver Catalyst on Carbon Fiber Papers as Binder Free Cathodes for Aluminum-air Battery
Authors: Hong Qingshui , Lu Huimin
Published: June 2017

Carbon fiber papers supported Ag catalysts (Ag/CFP) with different coverage of electro-active site are prepared by electrochemical deposition and used as binder free cathodes in primary aluminum-air (Al-air) battery. Scanning Electron Microscopy and X-ray Diffraction studies are carried out to characterize the as-prepared Ag/CFP air cathodes. Oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activities on these air cathodes in alkaline solutions are systematic studied. A newly designed aluminum-air cell is used to further determine the cathodes performance under real operation condition and during the test, the Ag/CFP electrodes show outstanding catalytic activity for ORR in concentrated alkaline electrolyte, and no obvious activity degradation is observed after long-time discharge. The electrochemical test results display the dependence of coverage of the electro-active Ag on the catalytic performance of the air cathodes. The resulting primary Al-air battery made from the best-performing cathode shows an impressive discharge peak power density, outperforming that of using commercial nano-manganese catalyst air electrodes.
Highly phosphorylated functionalized rice starch produced by transgenic rice expressing the potato GWD1 gene
Authors: Chen Yaling , Sun Xiao , Zhou Xin , Hebelstrup Kim H. , Blennow Andreas , Bao Jinsong
Published: June 2017

Starch phosphorylation occurs naturally during starch metabolism in the plant and is catalysed by glucan water dikinases (GWD1) and phosphoglucan water dikinase/glucan water dikinase 3 (PWD/GWD3). We generated six stable individual transgenic lines by over-expressing the potato GWD1 in rice. Transgenic rice grain starch had 9-fold higher 6-phospho (6-P) monoesters and double amounts of 3-phospho (3-P) monoesters, respectively, compared to control grain. The shape and topography of the transgenic starch granules were moderately altered including surface pores and less well defined edges. The gelatinization temperatures of both rice flour and extracted starch were significantly lower than those of the control and hence negatively correlated with the starch phosphate content. The 6-P content was positively correlated with amylose content and relatively long amylopectin chains with DP25-36, and the 3-P content was positively correlated with short chains of DP6-12. The starch pasting temperature, peak viscosity and the breakdown were lower but the setback was higher for transgenic rice flour. The 6-P content was negatively correlated with texture adhesiveness but positively correlated with the cohesiveness of rice flour gels. Our data demonstrate a way forward to employ a starch bioengineering approach for clean modification of starch, opening up completely new applications for rice starch.
Allopregnanolone mediates the exacerbation of Tourette-like responses by acute stress in mouse models
Authors: Mosher Laura J. , Godar Sean C. , Nelson Marianela , Fowler Stephen C. , Pinna Graziano , Bortolato Marco
Published: June 2017

Tourette syndrome (TS) is a neuropsychiatric disorder characterized by multiple tics and sensorimotor abnormalities, the severity of which is typically increased by stress. The neurobiological underpinnings of this exacerbation, however, remain elusive. We recently reported that spatial confinement (SC), a moderate environmental stressor, increases tic-like responses and elicits TS-like sensorimotor gating deficits in the D1CT-7 mouse, one of the best-validated models of TS. Here, we hypothesized that these adverse effects may be mediated by neurosteroids, given their well-documented role in stress-response orchestration. Indeed, SC increased the levels of progesterone, as well as its derivatives 5α-dihydroprogesterone and allopregnanolone, in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) of D1CT-7 mice. Among these steroids, however, only allopregnanolone (5–15 mg/kg, IP) dose-dependently exacerbated TS-like manifestations in D1CT-7, but not wild-type littermates; these effects were countered by the benchmark anti-tic therapy haloperidol (0.3 mg/kg, IP). Furthermore, the phenotypic effects of spatial confinement in D1CT-7 mice were suppressed by finasteride (25–50 mg/kg, IP), an inhibitor of the main rate-limiting enzyme in allopregnanolone synthesis. These findings collectively suggest that stress may exacerbate TS symptoms by promoting allopregnanolone synthesis in the PFC, and corroborate previous clinical results pointing to finasteride as a novel therapeutic avenue to curb symptom fluctuations in TS.
SerpinB3 Promotes Pro-fibrogenic Responses in Activated Hepatic Stellate Cells
Authors: Novo Erica , Villano Gianmarco , Turato Cristian , Cannito Stefania , Paternostro Claudia , Busletta Chiara , Biasiolo Alessandra , Quarta Santina , Morello Elisabetta , Bocca Claudia , Miglietta Antonella , David Ezio , Sutti Salvatore , Plebani Mario , Albano Emanuele , Parola Maurizio , Pontisso Patrizia
Published: June 2017

SerpinB3 is a hypoxia- and hypoxia-inducible factor-2α-dependent cystein protease inhibitor that is up-regulated in hepatocellular carcinoma and in parenchymal cells during chronic liver diseases (CLD). SerpinB3 up-regulation in CLD patients has been reported to correlate with the extent of liver fibrosis and the production of transforming growth factor-β1, but the actual role of SerpinB3 in hepatic fibrogenesis is still poorly characterized. In the present study we analyzed the pro-fibrogenic action of SerpinB3 in cell cultures and in two different murine models of liver fibrosis. “In vitro” experiments revealed that SerpinB3 addition to either primary cultures of human activated myofibroblast-like hepatic stellate cells (HSC/MFs) or human stellate cell line (LX2 cells) strongly up-regulated the expression of genes involved in fibrogenesis and promoted oriented migration, but not cell proliferation. Chronic liver injury by CCl4 administration or by feeding a methionine/choline deficient diet to transgenic mice over-expressing human SerpinB3 in hepatocytes confirmed that SerpinB3 over-expression significantly increased the mRNA levels of pro-fibrogenic genes, collagen deposition and αSMA-positive HSC/MFs as compared to wild-type mice, without affecting parenchymal damage. The present study provides for the first time evidence that hepatocyte release of SerpinB3 during CLD can contribute to liver fibrogenesis by acting on HSC/MFs.
Correction: Corrigendum: A dark green fluorescent protein as an acceptor for measurement of Förster resonance energy transfer
Authors: Murakoshi Hideji , Shibata Akihiro C. E. , Nakahata Yoshihisa , Nabekura Junichi
Published: June 2017

Scientific Reports 5: Article number: 15334; published online: 15 October 2015; updated: 07 June 2017 This Article contains typographical errors. In Table 1 under ‘Förster distance with mEGFP (nm)’, the sREACh and ShadowG values should read 6.2 and 5.1 respectively. In addition, in the Materials andMethods section under subheading ‘Plasmid construction’,
Organ-on-a-chip devices advance to market
Authors: Zhang Boyang , Radisic Milica
Published: June 2017

We reviewed the foundational technologies underlying the commercialization efforts of the current prominent organ-on-a-chip start-ups.
Fluorescence Zn-based metal–organic frameworks for the detection of hydrogen sulfide in natural gas
Authors: Song Rongcai , Hou Lin , Wang Yuanyuan , Li Yanyan , Wang Xuesong , Zang Yuxi , Zang Yunong , Wang Xiangcheng , Yan Shuguang
Published: June 2017

Fluorescent zinc-based metal–organic frameworks (Zn-MOFs) were synthesized via the solvothermal method.
Effect of pH on chitosan hydrogel polymer network structure
Authors: Xu Hongcheng , Matysiak Silvina
Published: June 2017

With our newly developed model, we have revealed the molecular mechanism of chitosan hydrogel self-assembly by exploring its pH-dependent crosslinking pattern.
Copper nanoparticles socketed in situ into copper phyllosilicate nanotubes with enhanced performance for chemoselective hydrogenation of esters
Authors: Gong Xiaoxiao , Wang Meiling , Fang Huihuang , Qian Xiaoqi , Ye Linmin , Duan Xinping , Yuan Youzhu
Published: June 2017

Copper nanoparticles exsoluted in situ under a reducing atmosphere at elevated temperatures are socketed into the parent copper phyllosilicate nanotubes and exhibit excellent catalytic performance and superior stability for the selective hydrogenation of various esters to alcohols.
Identification of actin as a direct proteomic target of berberine using an affinity-based chemical probe and elucidation of its modulatory role in actin assembly
Authors: Yi Chae-Min , Yu Jihyun , Kim Hyunbin , Lee Na-Rae , Kim Sang Won , Lee Noh-Jin , Lee Jun , Seong Jihye , Kim Nam-Jung , Inn Kyung-Soo
Published: June 2017

Actin was identified as a direct target of berberine via a chemoproteomic approach and its assembly was modulated by berberine.
A nitrile-stabilized ammonium ylide as a masked C–CN synthon in heterocyclization with amidine–imine: 3-component assembly to fused pyrimidine scaffolds
Authors: Guchhait Sankar K. , Saini Meenu , Sumkaria Divyani , Chaudhary Vikas
Published: June 2017

The title ylides possessing a unique reactivity-pattern and nitrile's dual role cyclo-condense with amidine–amineviaa pathway of electronically-assisted nucleophilic substitutions and Hofmann elimination.
Elucidation of the elusive structure and formula of the active pharmaceutical ingredient bismuth subgallate by continuous rotation electron diffraction
Authors: Wang Yunchen , Takki Sofia , Cheung Ocean , Xu Hongyi , Wan Wei , Öhrström Lars , Inge A. Ken
Published: June 2017

Bismuth subgallate was revealed as a coordination polymer providing insight into its solubility and gas sorption properties.
Palladium-catalyzed intermolecular carbonylative cross-coupling of heteroaryl C(sp2)–H bonds with amines: an efficient strategy for oxidative aminocarbonylation of azoles
Authors: Xing Qi , Lv Hui , Xia Chungu , Li Fuwei
Published: June 2017

We report the first intermolecular carbonylative cross-coupling of heteroaryl C(sp2)–H bonds with amines using oxygen as the green oxidant.
Field effects to slow magnetic relaxation in a mononuclear Ni(ii) complex
Authors: Lomjanský D. , Moncol' J. , Rajnák C. , Titiš J. , Boča R.
Published: June 2017

A mononuclear Ni(ii) complex [Ni(NCS)2(nqu)2(H2O)2]·2nqu (nqu – 5-nitroquinoline) shows a field induced slow magnetic relaxation with three relaxation domains. The relaxation time for the low-frequency mode is as slow as τ = 0.3 s at T = 1.9 K and BDC = 0.4 T.
Nucleopolypeptides with DNA-triggered α helix-to-β sheet transition
Authors: Nguyen Michel , Stigliani Jean-Luc , Pratviel Genevieve , Bonduelle Colin
Published: June 2017

Nucleopolypeptide polymers are a new class of smart materials that exhibit selective structuring switch upon DNA binding.
Enzymatic activation of cell-penetrating peptides in self-assembled nanostructures triggers fibre-to-micelle morphological transition
Authors: Shi Yejiao , Hu Yang , Ochbaum Guy , Lin Ran , Bitton Ronit , Cui Honggang , Azevedo Helena S.
Published: June 2017

Enzyme-assisted fibre-to-micelle transition in self-assembled nanostructures controls presentation of cell-penetrating peptides.
Nitrogen-doped graphene: effect of graphite oxide precursors and nitrogen content on the electrochemical sensing properties
Authors: Megawati Monica , Chua Chun Kiang , Sofer Zdenek , Klímová Kateřina , Pumera Martin
Published: June 2017

Nitrogen-doped graphene prepared from four different graphite oxide precursors were investigated to understand the variation and extent of nitrogen doping. Their electrocatalytic effects toward the detection of biomolecules were subsequently studied.
Understanding the remarkable luminescence enhancement via SiO2 coating on TiO2:Eu3+ nanofibers
Authors: Chang Meiqi , Song Yanhua , Sheng Ye , Chen Jie , Zou Haifeng
Published: June 2017

Red luminescence is enhanced by coating an SiO2 layer on TiO2:Eu3+ nanofibers, and the luminescence enhancement mechanism is discussed.
Reline aqueous solutions behaving as liquid mixtures of H-bonded co-solvents: microphase segregation and formation of co-continuous structures as indicated by Brillouin and 1H NMR spectroscopies
Authors: Posada E. , López-Salas N. , Jiménez Riobóo R. J. , Ferrer M. L. , Gutiérrez M. C. , del Monte F.
Published: June 2017

Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) offer a suitable alternative to conventional solvents in terms of both performance and cost-effectiveness.
Interfacial memristors in Al–LaNiO3heterostructures
Authors: Tian Bobo , Nukala Pavan , Hassine Mohamed Ben , Zhao Xiaolin , Wang Xudong , Shen Hong , Wang Jianlu , Sun Shuo , Lin Tie , Sun Jinglan , Ge Jun , Huang Rong , Duan Chungang , Reiss Thomas , Varela Maria , Dkhil Brahim , Meng Xiangjian , Chu Junhao
Published: June 2017

Self-assembled interfacial memristive systems in Al–LaNiO3heterostructures.
Weak interactions and their impact on cellulose dissolution in an alkali/urea aqueous system
Authors: Wang Sen , Sun Peng , Liu Maili , Lu Ang , Zhang Lina
Published: June 2017

This work exhibited the indispensability and significance of weak non-covalent interactions between urea and macromolecules in a sophisticated physical chemistry process.
How do hydrophobic nucleobases differ from natural DNA nucleobases? Comparison of structural features and duplex properties from QM calculations and MD simulations
Authors: Negi Indu , Kathuria Preetleen , Sharma Purshotam , Wetmore Stacey D.
Published: June 2017

Computational (DFT and MD simulation) methods are employed to systematically characterize the structural and energetic properties of five hydrophobic nucleobases that constitute four unnatural base pairs.
Correction: A review of carrier thermoelectric-transport theory in organic semiconductors
Authors: Lu Nianduan , Li Ling , Liu Ming
Published: June 2017

Correction for ‘A review of carrier thermoelectric-transport theory in organic semiconductors’ by Nianduan Lu et al., Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2016, 18, 19503–19525.
Surface science under reaction conditions: CO oxidation on Pt and Pd model catalysts
Authors: van Spronsen Matthijs A. , Frenken Joost W. M. , Groot Irene M. N.
Published: June 2017

Application of surface-science techniques, such as XPS, SXRD, STM, and IR spectroscopy under catalytic reactions conditions yield new structural and chemical information. Recent experiments focusing on CO oxidation over Pt and Pd model catalysts were reviewed.
Tip-enhanced Raman spectroscopy for surfaces and interfaces
Authors: Wang Xiang , Huang Sheng-Chao , Huang Teng-Xiang , Su Hai-Sheng , Zhong Jin-Hui , Zeng Zhi-Cong , Li Mao-Hua , Ren Bin
Published: June 2017

TERS offers the high spatial resolution to establish structure-function correlation for surfaces and interfaces.
Development of non-oxide semiconductors as light harvesting materials in photocatalytic and photoelectrochemical water splitting
Authors: Takata Tsuyoshi , Domen Kazunari
Published: June 2017

This perspective summarizes recent advances in the use of (oxy)nitrides and oxysulfides as light harvesting semiconductors for photocatalytic or photoelectrochemical water splitting.
Controlled rotation and translation of spherical particles or living cells by surface acoustic waves
Authors: Bernard Ianis , Doinikov Alexander A. , Marmottant Philippe , Rabaud David , Poulain Cédric , Thibault Pierre
Published: June 2017

Surface acoustic waves are shown to be powerful tools to control translation and rotation of single particles in microfluidic devices.
Hybrid polymer microfluidic platform to mimic varying vascular compliance and topology
Authors: Rathod M. L. , Ahn J. , Jeon N. L. , Lee J.
Published: June 2017

Several cardiovascular pathologies and aging have been associated with alterations in the mechanical and structural properties of the vascular wall, leading to a reduction in arterial compliance and the development of constriction.
High-resolution and multi-range particle separation by microscopic vibration in an optofluidic chip
Authors: Shi Y. Z. , Xiong S. , Chin L. K. , Yang Y. , Zhang J. B. , Ser W. , Wu J. H. , Chen T. N. , Yang Z. C. , Hao Y. L. , Liedberg B. , Yap P. H. , Zhang Y. , Liu A. Q.
Published: June 2017

We present an optofluidic chip consisting of a quasi-Bessel beam for multi-range separation of sub-100 nm gold nanoparticles and pathogens with microscopic vibration.
A multifunctional skin-like sensor based on a 3D printed thermo-responsive hydrogel
Authors: Lei Zhouyue , Wang Quankang , Wu Peiyi
Published: June 2017

A 3D printed thermo-responsive hydrogel is designed as a novel multifunctional skin-like sensor.
Multifunctionality and size of the chloranilate ligand define the topology of transition metal coordination polymers
Authors: Androš Dubraja Lidija , Molčanov Krešimir , Žilić Dijana , Kojić-Prodić Biserka , Wenger Emmanuel
Published: June 2017

A series of eight novel complexes of chloranilic acid (CA) with the first-row transition metals (M = Mn, Cr, Ni, Co) were prepared and characterised by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, IR spectroscopy and polycrystalline X-band electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopy.
A smart pH-responsive nano-carrier as a drug delivery system for the targeted delivery of ursolic acid: suppresses cancer growth and metastasis by modulating P53/MMP-9/PTEN/CD44 mediated multiple signaling pathways
Authors: Jiang Kai , Chi Ting , Li Tao , Zheng Guirong , Fan Lulu , Liu Yajun , Chen Xiufen , Chen Sijia , Jia Lee , Shao Jingwei
Published: June 2017

Anti-tumor and anti-metastatic effects of ursolic acid based on one novel nanodrug delivery system.
The impact of metalation on adsorption geometry, electronic level alignment and UV-stability of organic macrocycles on TiO2(110)
Authors: Graf Manuel , Mette Gerson , Leuenberger Dominik , Gurdal Yeliz , Iannuzzi Marcella , Zabka Wolf-Dietrich , Schnidrig Stephan , Probst Benjamin , Hutter Jürg , Alberto Roger , Osterwalder Jürg
Published: June 2017

The potential sensitizer dye pyrphyrin adsorbed on TiO2(110) is stabilized against photo-induced degradation by Co-metalation.
Targeted and efficient activation of channelrhodopsins expressed in living cells via specifically-bound upconversion nanoparticles
Authors: Yadav Kanchan , Chou Ai-Chuan , Ulaganathan Rajesh Kumar , Gao Hua-De , Lee Hsien-Ming , Pan Chien-Yuan , Chen Yit-Tsong
Published: June 2017

We demonstrate the targeted optogenetic activation of ChR2 in living cellsviaupconversion nanoparticles with a low power of near-infrared illumination.
Recent progress in the catalytic carbene insertion reactions into the silicon–hydrogen bond
Authors: Keipour Hoda , Carreras Virginie , Ollevier Thierry
Published: June 2017

This account reviews the development of Si–H bond insertion reactions, giving an overview of the catalysts employed. Metal carbenes can be inserted into Si–H bonds, allowing the selective formation of C–Si bonds.
Synthesis of N-acetoxy-N-arylamides via diacetoxyiodobenzene promoted double acylation reaction of hydroxylamines with aldehydes
Authors: Zhang Huaiyuan , Su Yingpeng , Wang Ke-Hu , Huang Danfeng , Li Jun , Hu Yulai
Published: June 2017

A facile and efficient synthesis of N-acetoxy-N-arylamides through double acylations of hydroxylamines with aldehydes and diacetoxyiodobenzene is reported. The yields of the products are good to excellent.
Porphyrin-based photosensitizers and their DNA conjugates for singlet oxygen induced nucleic acid interstrand crosslinking
Authors: Llamas Eva M. , Tome João P. C. , Rodrigues João M. M. , Torres Tomás , Madder Annemieke
Published: June 2017

Porphyrin-based photosensitisers and their DNA conjugates have been evaluated for interstrand crosslink generation using furan containing oligonucleotides and red light.
Molecular conformation and packing: their critical roles in the emission performance of mechanochromic fluorescence materials
Authors: Wang Can , Li Zhen
Published: June 2017

Mechanochromic fluorescence (MCF) materials are a sort of smart material whose photophysical properties are sensitive to mechanical stimulation, such as photoluminescence color, fluorescence quantum yield and emission lifetime.
Trichomes as a natural biophysical barrier for plants and their bioinspired applications
Authors: Liu Han , Liu Shaobao , Jiao Jiaojiao , Lu Tian Jian , Xu Feng
Published: June 2017

This review offers a new perspective of interdisciplinary research both on functions of plant trichomes and their biomimetic applications.
Bi‐directional SIW leaky‐wave antenna using TE20 mode for frequency beam scanning
Authors: Sarkar A. , Sharma A. , Adhikary M. , Biswas A. , Akhtar M.J.
Published: June 2017

A compact bi‐directional leaky‐wave antenna (LWA) based on TE20 mode substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) is proposed at X‐band. The microstrip power divider–slotline transitions are utilised to excite TE20 mode SIW array in order to enhance the overall radiation capability of the designed structure. The rectangular slots are etched out on the top and bottom plane of SIW such a way that the orientation of the slots can perturb the distribution of electric field at TE20 mode and provide bi‐directional radiation. The proposed antenna is working within the frequency range of 9.6–11.2 GHz (S11 < −10 dB) having the beam scanning range of 66° from both top and bottom side of the structure with maximum gain of 14 dBi. All experimental results show a fair agreement with the simulated data.
Large‐scale transmission expansion planning: from zonal results to a nodal expansion plan
Authors: Lumbreras Sara , Ramos Andrés , Banez‐Chicharro Fernando , Olmos Luis , Panciatici Patrick , Pache Camille , Maeght Jean
Published: June 2017

Performing optimal transmission expansion planning (TEP) in real, large‐scale power systems such as the European one can be an unmanageable task, especially when long‐term time scopes and multiple scenarios are considered. Project e‐Highway had the daunting objective of planning the European network for the very long term and under high renewable energy penetration. The project objectives included the development of a planning methodology capable of applying optimisation to large‐scale systems that are currently unmanageable in practice. This study presents this approach, which is based on simplifying the system while keeping its main features and investment drivers. The simplified system is then expanded optimally for the full time scope. Last, the original system is expanded optimally for the first time horizon taking into account the constraints imposed by the full time‐scope optimisation of the simplified system. It illustrates the applicability of the method with a case study based on the European Union.
Fully distributed multi‐area dynamic economic dispatch method with second‐order convergence for active distribution networks
Authors: Xu Tong , Wu Wenchuan , Sun Hongbin , Wang Liming
Published: June 2017

In active distribution networks, distributed generators are integrated into microgrids or geographically distributed subsystems. They may belong to different owners and are operated independently to preserve privacy. Therefore, fully distributed economic dispatch (ED) methods are needed and most existing algorithms show first‐order convergence. This study introduces a fully distributed dynamic ED with second‐order convergence, which is based on a parallel primal–dual interior‐point algorithm with a matrix‐splitting technique. In this method, each area optimises its own problem with limited information exchanged with its neighbours, and no central coordinator is needed. Numerical tests demonstrate that the algorithm can converge at a second‐order rate. On the basis of a peer‐to‐peer communication paradigm, this method can achieve a global optimum while the privacy of each area is obliquely protected.
Transformer oil reclamation by combining several strategies enhanced by the use of four adsorbents
Authors: Safiddine L. , Hadj‐Ziane Zafour Amel , Fofana Issouf , Skender Abdelhak , Guerbas Fettouma , Boucherit Ahmed
Published: June 2017

From an environmental perspective, petroleum‐based aged oils removed from power transformers are source of several pollutants and therefore cannot be disposed of without due care. The degradation of oil in in‐service transformers is due to various factors concurrent with the operation of the units over several years. The present study proposes a new strategy to rejuvenate used mineral oils by combining centrifugation, dehydration and sorption with four different adsorbents: activated carbon (ACH), silica gel (SG), magnesium oxide (MO) and activated bentonite (AB). The process of regeneration proposed in this study resulted in a level of restoration that saw the used oil take on the characteristics of new oil (colour, dissipation factor, resistivity, permittivity, acid number). The results also showed that the optimum form of the re‐refined base oil can be attributed to a 10% (w/w) quaternary mixture of the adsorbents, itself comprised of 1% ACH, 6% SG, 1% MO and 2% AB. The anticipated benefits are reduced risk of dielectric breakdown blamed for over 75% of extra high‐voltage (EHV) power transformer failures and extended transformer life expectancy by retarding the solid insulation aging processes.
Acquisition method for terrain referenced navigation using terrain contour intersections
Authors: Jang Sukwon , Bang Hyochoong
Published: June 2017

This study presents a contour intersection‐based acquisition method for fast and robust terrain referenced navigation (TRN). Due to advances in highly accurate sensors, such as in radar and lasers, the shortcomings of past TRN could be overcome. High‐performance sensors have made it possible to estimate the true terrain height limited to narrow error intervals. Digital terrain elevation data is employed for the purpose of inversely obtaining the measurement area – the area created by contours – corresponding to the height interval. Since the measurement area is a bundle of contour lines, the intersection area, which is the intersection of measurement areas, consists of a set of intersections of contour lines. Intersection areas are sequentially obtained to estimate the actual aircraft position. While batch processing is computationally expensive and it is hard to produce solutions until the position is fixed, the proposed method is fast enough to provide a rapid solution without an initial break. Sequential processing is sensitive to initial position errors, whereas the proposed method proves to be robust. The simulation results show that the contour intersection‐based acquisition method provides improved navigation performance for various terrain samples.
Iodine(III)-Mediated Oxidative Hydrolysis of Haloalkenes: Investigation of the Effect of Iodine(III) Reagents
Authors: Legault Claude , Dagenais Robin , Lauriers Antoine
Published: June 2017

The iodine(III)-mediated oxidative transposition of vinyl halides to the corresponding α-halo ketones has been recently reported. The method is high yielding and offers good substrate scope. The investigation of other iodine(III) reagents to promote this reaction is described. The newly developed protocol reduces the number of waste products formed in the synthetic transformation. A structure–reactivity relationship study of numerous [hydroxy(tosyloxy)iodo]arenes toward haloalkenes is reported. The results highlight the challenge of obtaining a chemoselective reaction using these reagents.