Identification of a Major Dimorphic Region in the Functionally Critical N-Terminal ID1 Domain of VAR2CSA

PubMed Central

Doritchamou, Justin; Sabbagh, Audrey; Jespersen, Jakob S.; Renard, Emmanuelle; Salanti, Ali; Nielsen, Morten A.; Deloron, Philippe; Tuikue Ndam, Nicaise

2015-01-01

The VAR2CSA protein of Plasmodium falciparum is transported to and expressed on the infected erythrocyte surface where it plays a key role in placental malaria (PM). It is the current leading candidate for a vaccine to prevent PM. However, the antigenic polymorphism integral to VAR2CSA poses a challenge for vaccine development. Based on detailed analysis of polymorphisms in the sequence of its ligand-binding N-terminal region, currently the main focus for vaccine development, we assessed var2csa from parasite isolates infecting pregnant women. The results reveal for the first time the presence of a major dimorphic region in the functionally critical N-terminal ID1 domain. Parasite isolates expressing VAR2CSA with particular motifs present within this domain are associated with gravidity- and parasite density-related effects. These observations are of particular interest in guiding efforts with respect to optimization of the VAR2CSA-based vaccines currently under development. PMID:26393516

The Antibody Response of Pregnant Cameroonian Women to VAR2CSA ID1-ID2a, a Small Recombinant Protein Containing the CSA-Binding Site

PubMed Central

Babakhanyan, Anna; Leke, Rose G. F.; Salanti, Ali; Bobbili, Naveen; Gwanmesia, Philomina; Leke, Robert J. I.; Quakyi, Isabella A.; Chen, John J.; Taylor, Diane Wallace

2014-01-01

In pregnant women, Plasmodium falciparum-infected erythrocytes expressing the VAR2CSA antigen bind to chondroitin sulfate A in the placenta causing placental malaria. The binding site of VAR2CSA is present in the ID1-ID2a region. This study sought to determine if pregnant Cameroonian women naturally acquire antibodies to ID1-ID2a and if antibodies to ID1-ID2a correlate with absence of placental malaria at delivery. Antibody levels to full-length VAR2CSA and ID1-ID2a were measured in plasma samples from 745 pregnant Cameroonian women, 144 Cameroonian men, and 66 US subjects. IgM levels and IgG avidity to ID1-ID2a were also determined. As expected, antibodies to ID1-ID2a were absent in US controls. Although pregnant Cameroonian women developed increasing levels of antibodies to full-length VAR2CSA during pregnancy, no increase in either IgM or IgG to ID1-ID2a was observed. Surprisingly, no differences in antibody levels to ID1-ID2a were detected between Cameroonian men and pregnant women. For example, in rural settings only 8–9% of males had antibodies to full-length VAR2CSA, but 90–96% had antibodies to ID1-ID2a. In addition, no significant difference in the avidity of IgG to ID1-ID2a was found between pregnant women and Cameroonian men, and no correlation between antibody levels at delivery and absence of placental malaria was found. Thus, the response to ID1-ID2a was not pregnancy specific, but predominantly against cross-reactivity epitopes, which may have been induced by other PfEMP1 antigens, malarial antigens, or microbes. Currently, ID1-ID2a is a leading vaccine candidate, since it binds to the CSA with the same affinity as the full-length molecule and elicits binding-inhibitory antibodies in animals. Further studies are needed to determine if the presence of naturally acquired cross-reactive antibodies in women living in malaria endemic countries will alter the response to ID1-ID2a following vaccination with ID1-ID2a. PMID:24505415

Antibody levels to recombinant VAR2CSA domains vary with Plasmodium falciparum parasitaemia, gestational age, and gravidity, but do not predict pregnancy outcomes.

PubMed

Fried, Michal; Kurtis, Jonathan D; Swihart, Bruce; Morrison, Robert; Pond-Tor, Sunthorn; Barry, Amadou; Sidibe, Youssoufa; Keita, Sekouba; Mahamar, Almahamoudou; Andemel, Naissem; Attaher, Oumar; Dembele, Adama B; Cisse, Kadidia B; Diarra, Bacary S; Kanoute, Moussa B; Narum, David L; Dicko, Alassane; Duffy, Patrick E

2018-03-09

Maternal malaria is a tropical scourge associated with poor pregnancy outcomes. Women become resistant to Plasmodium falciparum pregnancy malaria as they acquire antibodies to the variant surface antigen VAR2CSA, a leading vaccine candidate. Because malaria infection may increase VAR2CSA antibody levels and thereby confound analyses of immune protection, gravidity-dependent changes in antibody levels during and after infection, and the effect of VAR2CSA antibodies on pregnancy outcomes were evaluated. Pregnant women enrolled in a longitudinal cohort study of mother-infant pairs in Ouelessebougou, Mali provided plasma samples at enrollment, gestational week 30-32, and delivery. Antibody levels to VAR2CSA domains were measured using a multiplex bead-based assay. Antibody levels to VAR2CSA were higher in multigravidae than primigravidae. Malaria infection was associated with increased antibody levels to VAR2CSA domains. In primigravidae but not in secundigravidae or multigravidae, antibodies levels sharply declined after an infection. A relationship between any VAR2CSA antibody specificity and protection from adverse pregnancy outcomes was not detected. During malaria infection, primigravidae acquire short-lived antibodies. The lack of an association between VAR2CSA domain antibody reactivity and improved pregnancy outcomes suggests that the recombinant proteins may not present native epitopes targeted by protective antibodies.

Molecular dissection of placental malaria protein VAR2CSA interaction with a chemo-enzymatically synthesized chondroitin sulfate library.

PubMed

Sugiura, Nobuo; Clausen, Thomas Mandel; Shioiri, Tatsumasa; Gustavsson, Tobias; Watanabe, Hideto; Salanti, Ali

2016-12-01

Placental malaria, a serious infection caused by the parasite Plasmodium falciparum, is characterized by the selective accumulation of infected erythrocytes (IEs) in the placentas of the pregnant women. Placental adherence is mediated by the malarial VAR2CSA protein, which interacts with chondroitin sulfate (CS) proteoglycans present in the placental tissue. CS is a linear acidic polysaccharide composed of repeating disaccharide units of D-glucuronic acid and N-acetyl-D-galactosamine that are modified by sulfate groups at different positions. Previous reports have shown that placental-adhering IEs were associated with an unusually low sulfated form of chondroitin sulfate A (CSA) and that a partially sulfated dodecasaccharide is the minimal motif for the interaction. However, the fine molecular structure of this CS chain remains unclear. In this study, we have characterized the CS chain that interacts with a recombinant minimal CS-binding region of VAR2CSA (rVAR2) using a CS library of various defined lengths and sulfate compositions. The CS library was chemo-enzymatically synthesized with bacterial chondroitin polymerase and recombinant CS sulfotransferases. We found that C-4 sulfation of the N-acetyl-D-galactosamine residue is critical for supporting rVAR2 binding, whereas no other sulfate modifications showed effects. Interaction of rVAR2 with CS is highly correlated with the degree of C-4 sulfation and CS chain length. We confirmed that the minimum structure binding to rVAR2 is a tri-sulfated CSA dodecasaccharide, and found that a highly sulfated CSA eicosasaccharide is a more potent inhibitor of rVAR2 binding than the dodecasaccharides. These results suggest that CSA derivatives may potentially serve as targets in therapeutic strategies against placental malaria.

Antibodies among men and children to placental-binding Plasmodium falciparum-infected erythrocytes that express var2csa.

PubMed

Beeson, James G; Ndungu, Francis; Persson, Kristina E M; Chesson, Joanne M; Kelly, Greg L; Uyoga, Sophie; Hallamore, Sandra L; Williams, Thomas N; Reeder, John C; Brown, Graham V; Marsh, Kevin

2007-07-01

During pregnancy, specific variants of Plasmodium falciparum-infected erythrocytes (IEs) can accumulate in the placenta through adhesion to chondroitin sulfate A (CSA) mediated by expression of PfEMP1 encoded by var2csa-type genes. Antibodies against these variants are associated with protection from maternal malaria. We evaluated antibodies among Kenyan, Papua New Guinean, and Malawian men and Kenyan children against two different CSA-binding P. falciparum isolates expressing var2csa variants. Specific IgG was present at significant levels among some men and children from each population, suggesting exposure to these variants is not exclusive to pregnancy. However, the level and prevalence of antibodies was substantially lower overall than exposed multigravidas. IgG-binding was specific and did not represent antibodies to subpopulations of non-CSA-binding IEs, and some sera inhibited IE adhesion to CSA. These findings have significant implications for understanding malaria pathogenesis and immunity and may be significant for understanding the acquisition of immunity to maternal malaria.

CRISPR/Cas9 Genome Editing Reveals That the Intron Is Not Essential for var2csa Gene Activation or Silencing in Plasmodium falciparum.

PubMed

Bryant, Jessica M; Regnault, Clément; Scheidig-Benatar, Christine; Baumgarten, Sebastian; Guizetti, Julien; Scherf, Artur

2017-07-11

Plasmodium falciparum relies on monoallelic expression of 1 of 60 var virulence genes for antigenic variation and host immune evasion. Each var gene contains a conserved intron which has been implicated in previous studies in both activation and repression of transcription via several epigenetic mechanisms, including interaction with the var promoter, production of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), and localization to repressive perinuclear sites. However, functional studies have relied primarily on artificial expression constructs. Using the recently developed P. falciparum clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/Cas9 system, we directly deleted the var2csa P. falciparum 3D7_1200600 (Pf3D7_1200600) endogenous intron, resulting in an intronless var gene in a natural, marker-free chromosomal context. Deletion of the var2csa intron resulted in an upregulation of transcription of the var2csa gene in ring-stage parasites and subsequent expression of the PfEMP1 protein in late-stage parasites. Intron deletion did not affect the normal temporal regulation and subsequent transcriptional silencing of the var gene in trophozoites but did result in increased rates of var gene switching in some mutant clones. Transcriptional repression of the intronless var2csa gene could be achieved via long-term culture or panning with the CD36 receptor, after which reactivation was possible with chondroitin sulfate A (CSA) panning. These data suggest that the var2csa intron is not required for silencing or activation in ring-stage parasites but point to a subtle role in regulation of switching within the var gene family. IMPORTANCE Plasmodium falciparum is the most virulent species of malaria parasite, causing high rates of morbidity and mortality in those infected. Chronic infection depends on an immune evasion mechanism termed antigenic variation, which in turn relies on monoallelic expression of 1 of ~60 var genes. Understanding antigenic variation and the

Sequence analysis of DBL2β domain of vargene of Indonesian Plasmodium falciparum

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sulistyaningsih, E.; Romadhon, B. D.; Palupi, I.; Hidayah, F.; Dewi, R.; Prasetyo, A.

2018-03-01

Malaria is a major health problem in tropical countries including Indonesia. The most deadly agent is Plasmodium falciparum. In P. falciparum infection, PfEMP1 is supposed to play an important role in the pathogenesis of malaria. PfEMP1 is encoded by var gene family, it is a polymorphic protein where the extra-cellular portion contains of three distinct binding domains: Duffy binding-like (DBL), Cysteine-rich interdomain regions (CIDR) and C2. PfEMP1 varies in domain composition and binding specificity. The study explored the characteristic of Indonesian DBL2β-var genes and investigated its role to the malaria outcome. Twenty blood samples from clinically mild to severe malaria patients in Jember, East Java were collected for DNA extraction. Diagnosis was confirmed by Giemsa-stained thick blood smear. PCR was conducted using specific primer targeting on the full-length of DBL2ß and resulted approximately single band of 1,7 kb in a sample. This band was observed only from severe malaria sample. Sequence analysis directly from PCR product showed 74-99% similarities with previous sequences in Gene Bank. In conclusion, the DBL2β domain of vargene of Indonesian isolates was 1603 nucleotides in length and there was a possible association of the existence of DBL2β domain with the severity of malaria outcome.

Multiplexing detection of IgG against Plasmodium falciparum pregnancy-specific antigens

PubMed Central

Fonseca, Ana Maria; Quinto, Llorenç; Jiménez, Alfons; González, Raquel; Bardají, Azucena; Maculuve, Sonia; Dobaño, Carlota; Rupérez, Maria; Vala, Anifa; Aponte, John J.; Sevene, Esperanza; Macete, Eusebio; Menéndez, Clara

2017-01-01

Background Pregnant women exposed to Plasmodium falciparum generate antibodies against VAR2CSA, the parasite protein that mediates adhesion of infected erythrocytes to the placenta. There is a need of high-throughput tools to determine the fine specificity of these antibodies that can be used to identify immune correlates of protection and exposure. Here we aimed at developing a multiplex-immunoassay to detect antibodies against VAR2CSA antigens. Methods and findings We constructed two multiplex-bead arrays, one composed of 3 VAR2CSA recombinant-domains (DBL3X, DBL5Ɛ and DBL6Ɛ) and another composed of 46 new peptides covering VAR2CSA conserved and semi-conserved regions. IgG reactivity was similar in multiplexed and singleplexed determinations (Pearson correlation, protein array: R2 = 0.99 and peptide array: R2 = 0.87). IgG recognition of 25 out of 46 peptides and all recombinant-domains was higher in pregnant Mozambican women (n = 106) than in Mozambican men (n = 102) and Spanish individuals (n = 101; p<0.05). Agreement of IgG levels detected in cryopreserved plasma and in elutions from dried blood spots was good after exclusion of inappropriate filter papers. Under heterogeneous levels of exposure to malaria, similar seropositivity cutoffs were obtained using finite mixture models applied to antibodies measured on pregnant Mozambican women and average of antibodies measured on pregnant Spanish women never exposed to malaria. The application of the multiplex-bead array developed here, allowed the assessment of higher IgG levels and seroprevalences against VAR2CSA-derived antigens in women pregnant during 2003–2005 than during 2010–2012, in accordance with the levels of malaria transmission reported for these years in Mozambique. Conclusions The multiplex bead-based immunoassay to detect antibodies against selected 25 VAR2CSA new-peptides and recombinant-domains was successfully implemented. Analysis of field samples showed that responses were specific among

Placental Sequestration of Plasmodium falciparum Malaria Parasites Is Mediated by the Interaction Between VAR2CSA and Chondroitin Sulfate A on Syndecan-1

PubMed Central

Mao, Yang; Resende, Mafalda; Daugaard, Mads; Riis Kristensen, Anders; Damm, Peter; G. Theander, Thor; R. Hansson, Stefan; Salanti, Ali

2016-01-01

During placental malaria, Plasmodium falciparum infected erythrocytes sequester in the placenta, causing health problems for both the mother and fetus. The specific adherence is mediated by the VAR2CSA protein, which binds to placental chondroitin sulfate (CS) on chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPGs) in the placental syncytium. However, the identity of the CSPG core protein and the cellular impact of the interaction have remain elusive. In this study we identified the specific CSPG core protein to which the CS is attached, and characterized its exact placental location. VAR2CSA pull-down experiments using placental extracts from whole placenta or syncytiotrophoblast microvillous cell membranes showed three distinct CSPGs available for VAR2CSA adherence. Further examination of these three CSPGs by immunofluorescence and proximity ligation assays showed that syndecan-1 is the main receptor for VAR2CSA mediated placental adherence. We further show that the commonly used placental choriocarcinoma cell line, BeWo, express a different set of proteoglycans than those present on placental syncytiotrophoblast and may not be the most biologically relevant model to study placental malaria. Syncytial fusion of the BeWo cells, triggered by forskolin treatment, caused an increased expression of placental CS-modified syndecan-1. In line with this, we show that rVAR2 binding to placental CS impairs syndecan-1-related Src signaling in forskolin treated BeWo cells, but not in untreated cells. PMID:27556547

A high-resolution (13)C 3D CSA-CSA-CSA correlation experiment by means of magic angle turning.

PubMed

Hu, J Z; Ye, C; Pugmire, R J; Grant, D M

2000-08-01

It is shown in this paper that a previously reported 90 degrees sample flipping (13)C 2D CSA-CSA correlation experiment may be carried out alternatively by employing constant slow sample rotation about the magic angle axis and by synchronizing the read pulse to 13 of the rotor cycle. A high-resolution 3D CSA-CSA-CSA correlation experiment based on the magic angle turning technique is reported in which the conventional 90 degrees 2D CSA-CSA powder pattern for each carbon in a system containing a number of inequivalent carbons may be separated according to the isotropic chemical shift value. The technique is demonstrated on 1,2,3-trimethoxybenzene in which all of the overlapping powder patterns that cannot be segregated by the 2D CSA-CSA experiment are resolved successfully by the 3D CSA-CSA-CSA experiment, including even the two methoxy groups (M(1) and M(3)) whose isotropic shifts, confirmed by high-speed MAS, are separated by only 1 ppm. A difference of 4 ppm in the principal value component (delta(33)) between M(1) and M(3) is readily obtained. Copyright 2000 Academic Press.

Dbl oncogene expression in MCF-10 A epithelial cells disrupts mammary acinar architecture, induces EMT and angiogenic factor secretion

PubMed Central

Vanni, Cristina; Ognibene, Marzia; Finetti, Federica; Mancini, Patrizia; Cabodi, Sara; Segalerba, Daniela; Torrisi, Maria Rosaria; Donnini, Sandra; Bosco, Maria Carla; Varesio, Luigi; Eva, Alessandra

2015-01-01

The proteins of the Dbl family are guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) of Rho GTPases and are known to be involved in cell growth regulation. Alterations of the normal function of these proteins lead to pathological processes such as developmental disorders, neoplastic transformation, and tumor metastasis. We have previously demonstrated that expression of Dbl oncogene in lens epithelial cells modulates genes encoding proteins involved in epithelial-mesenchymal-transition (EMT) and induces angiogenesis in the lens. Our present study was undertaken to investigate the role of Dbl oncogene in epithelial cells transformation, providing new insights into carcinoma progression.To assess how Dbl oncogene can modulate EMT, cell migration, morphogenesis, and expression of pro-apoptotic and angiogenic factors we utilized bi- and 3-dimensional cultures of MCF-10 A cells. We show that upon Dbl expression MCF-10 A cells undergo EMT. In addition, we found that Dbl overexpression sustains Cdc42 and Rac activation inducing morphological alterations, characterized by the presence of lamellipodia and conferring a high migratory capacity to the cells. Moreover, Dbl expressing MCF-10 A cells form altered 3D structures and can induce angiogenesis by producing proangiogenic factors such as CCL2. These results support a role for Dbl oncogene in epithelial cell differentiation and transformation and suggest the relevance of GEF deregulation in tumor onset and progression. PMID:25723869

Dbl2 Regulates Rad51 and DNA Joint Molecule Metabolism to Ensure Proper Meiotic Chromosome Segregation

PubMed Central

Hyppa, Randy W.; Benko, Zsigmond; Misova, Ivana; Schleiffer, Alexander; Smith, Gerald R.; Gregan, Juraj

2016-01-01

To identify new proteins required for faithful meiotic chromosome segregation, we screened a Schizosaccharomyces pombe deletion mutant library and found that deletion of the dbl2 gene led to missegregation of chromosomes during meiosis. Analyses of both live and fixed cells showed that dbl2Δ mutant cells frequently failed to segregate homologous chromosomes to opposite poles during meiosis I. Removing Rec12 (Spo11 homolog) to eliminate meiotic DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) suppressed the segregation defect in dbl2Δ cells, indicating that Dbl2 acts after the initiation of meiotic recombination. Analyses of DSBs and Holliday junctions revealed no significant defect in their formation or processing in dbl2Δ mutant cells, although some Rec12-dependent DNA joint molecules persisted late in meiosis. Failure to segregate chromosomes in the absence of Dbl2 correlated with persistent Rad51 foci, and deletion of rad51 or genes encoding Rad51 mediators also suppressed the segregation defect of dbl2Δ. Formation of foci of Fbh1, an F-box helicase that efficiently dismantles Rad51-DNA filaments, was impaired in dbl2Δ cells. Our results suggest that Dbl2 is a novel regulator of Fbh1 and thereby Rad51-dependent DSB repair required for proper meiotic chromosome segregation and viable sex cell formation. The wide conservation of these proteins suggests that our results apply to many species. PMID:27304859

Lack of gender-specific antibody recognition of products from domains of a var gene implicated in pregnancy-associated Plasmodium falciparum malaria.

PubMed

Jensen, Anja T R; Zornig, Hanne D; Buhmann, Caecilie; Salanti, Ali; Koram, Kwadwo A; Riley, Eleanor M; Theander, Thor G; Hviid, Lars; Staalsoe, Trine

2003-07-01

Gender-specific and parity-dependent acquired antibody recognition is characteristic of variant surface antigens (VSA) expressed by chondroitin sulfate A (CSA)-adherent Plasmodium falciparum involved in pregnancy-associated malaria (PAM). However, antibody recognition of recombinant products of a specific VSA gene (2O2var1) implicated in PAM and transcribed by a CSA-adhering parasite line did not have these characteristics. Furthermore, we could not demonstrate preferential transcription of 2O2var1 in the CSA-adhering line versus the unselected, parental isolate. Our data call for circumspection regarding the molecular identity of the parasite ligand mediating adhesion to CSA in PAM.

Activating mutations affecting the Dbl homology domain of SOS2 cause Noonan syndrome

PubMed Central

Cordeddu, Viviana; Yin, Jiani C.; Gunnarsson, Cecilia; Virtanen, Carl; Drunat, Séverine; Lepri, Francesca; De Luca, Alessandro; Rossi, Cesare; Ciolfi, Andrea; Pugh, Trevor J.; Bruselles, Alessandro; Priest, James R.; Pennacchio, Len A.; Lu, Zhibin; Danesh, Arnavaz; Quevedo, Rene; Hamid, Alaa; Martinelli, Simone; Pantaleoni, Francesca; Gnazzo, Maria; Daniele, Paola; Lissewski, Christina; Bocchinfuso, Gianfranco; Stella, Lorenzo; Odent, Sylvie; Philip, Nicole; Faivre, Laurence; Vlckova, Marketa; Seemanova, Eva; Digilio, Cristina; Zenker, Martin; Zampino, Giuseppe; Verloes, Alain; Dallapiccola, Bruno; Roberts, Amy E.; Cavé, Hélène; Gelb, Bruce D.; Neel, Benjamin G.; Tartaglia, Marco

2015-01-01

The RASopathies constitute a family of autosomal dominant disorders whose major features include facial dysmorphism, cardiac defects, reduced postnatal growth, variable cognitive deficits, ectodermal and skeletal anomalies, and susceptibility to certain malignancies. Noonan syndrome (NS), the commonest RASopathy, is genetically heterogeneous and caused by functional dysregulation of signal transducers and regulatory proteins with roles in the RAS/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signal transduction pathway. Mutations in known disease genes account for approximately 80% of affected individuals. Here, we report that missense mutations altering son of sevenless, Drosophila, homolog 2 (SOS2), which encodes a RAS guanine nucleotide exchange factor, occur in a small percentage of subjects with NS. Four missense mutations were identified in five unrelated sporadic cases and families transmitting NS. Disease-causing mutations affected three conserved residues located in the Dbl homology domain, of which two are directly involved in the intramolecular binding network maintaining SOS2 in its auto-inhibited conformation. All mutations were found to promote enhanced signaling from RAS to ERK. Similar to NS-causing SOS1 mutations, the phenotype associated with SOS2 defects is characterized by normal development and growth, as well as marked ectodermal involvement. Unlike SOS1 mutations, however, those in SOS2 are restricted to the Dbl homology domain. PMID:26173643

Dbl3 drives Cdc42 signaling at the apical margin to regulate junction position and apical differentiation

PubMed Central

Zihni, Ceniz; Munro, Peter M.G.; Elbediwy, Ahmed; Keep, Nicholas H.; Terry, Stephen J.; Harris, John

2014-01-01

Epithelial cells develop morphologically characteristic apical domains that are bordered by tight junctions, the apical–lateral border. Cdc42 and its effector complex Par6–atypical protein kinase c (aPKC) regulate multiple steps during epithelial differentiation, but the mechanisms that mediate process-specific activation of Cdc42 to drive apical morphogenesis and activate the transition from junction formation to apical differentiation are poorly understood. Using a small interfering RNA screen, we identify Dbl3 as a guanine nucleotide exchange factor that is recruited by ezrin to the apical membrane, that is enriched at a marginal zone apical to tight junctions, and that drives spatially restricted Cdc42 activation, promoting apical differentiation. Dbl3 depletion did not affect junction formation but did affect epithelial morphogenesis and brush border formation. Conversely, expression of active Dbl3 drove process-specific activation of the Par6–aPKC pathway, stimulating the transition from junction formation to apical differentiation and domain expansion, as well as the positioning of tight junctions. Thus, Dbl3 drives Cdc42 signaling at the apical margin to regulate morphogenesis, apical–lateral border positioning, and apical differentiation. PMID:24379416

Fluid dynamics alter Caenorhabditis elegans body length via TGF-β/DBL-1 neuromuscular signaling

PubMed Central

Harada, Shunsuke; Hashizume, Toko; Nemoto, Kanako; Shao, Zhenhua; Higashitani, Nahoko; Etheridge, Timothy; Szewczyk, Nathaniel J; Fukui, Keiji; Higashibata, Akira; Higashitani, Atsushi

2016-01-01

Skeletal muscle wasting is a major obstacle for long-term space exploration. Similar to astronauts, the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans displays negative muscular and physical effects when in microgravity in space. It remains unclear what signaling molecules and behavior(s) cause these negative alterations. Here we studied key signaling molecules involved in alterations of C. elegans physique in response to fluid dynamics in ground-based experiments. Placing worms in space on a 1G accelerator increased a myosin heavy chain, myo-3, and a transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), dbl-1, gene expression. These changes also occurred when the fluid dynamic parameters viscosity/drag resistance or depth of liquid culture were increased on the ground. In addition, body length increased in wild type and body wall cuticle collagen mutants, rol-6 and dpy-5, grown in liquid culture. In contrast, body length did not increase in TGF-β, dbl-1, or downstream signaling pathway, sma-4/Smad, mutants. Similarly, a D1-like dopamine receptor, DOP-4, and a mechanosensory channel, UNC-8, were required for increased dbl-1 expression and altered physique in liquid culture. As C. elegans contraction rates are much higher when swimming in liquid than when crawling on an agar surface, we also examined the relationship between body length enhancement and rate of contraction. Mutants with significantly reduced contraction rates were typically smaller. However, in dop-4, dbl-1, and sma-4 mutants, contraction rates still increased in liquid. These results suggest that neuromuscular signaling via TGF-β/DBL-1 acts to alter body physique in response to environmental conditions including fluid dynamics. PMID:28725724

Deciphering the molecular and functional basis of Dbl family proteins: a novel systematic approach toward classification of selective activation of the Rho family proteins.

PubMed

Jaiswal, Mamta; Dvorsky, Radovan; Ahmadian, Mohammad Reza

2013-02-08

The diffuse B-cell lymphoma (Dbl) family of the guanine nucleotide exchange factors is a direct activator of the Rho family proteins. The Rho family proteins are involved in almost every cellular process that ranges from fundamental (e.g. the establishment of cell polarity) to highly specialized processes (e.g. the contraction of vascular smooth muscle cells). Abnormal activation of the Rho proteins is known to play a crucial role in cancer, infectious and cognitive disorders, and cardiovascular diseases. However, the existence of 74 Dbl proteins and 25 Rho-related proteins in humans, which are largely uncharacterized, has led to increasing complexity in identifying specific upstream pathways. Thus, we comprehensively investigated sequence-structure-function-property relationships of 21 representatives of the Dbl protein family regarding their specificities and activities toward 12 Rho family proteins. The meta-analysis approach provides an unprecedented opportunity to broadly profile functional properties of Dbl family proteins, including catalytic efficiency, substrate selectivity, and signaling specificity. Our analysis has provided novel insights into the following: (i) understanding of the relative differences of various Rho protein members in nucleotide exchange; (ii) comparing and defining individual and overall guanine nucleotide exchange factor activities of a large representative set of the Dbl proteins toward 12 Rho proteins; (iii) grouping the Dbl family into functionally distinct categories based on both their catalytic efficiencies and their sequence-structural relationships; (iv) identifying conserved amino acids as fingerprints of the Dbl and Rho protein interaction; and (v) defining amino acid sequences conserved within, but not between, Dbl subfamilies. Therefore, the characteristics of such specificity-determining residues identified the regions or clusters conserved within the Dbl subfamilies.

Neuropharmacology of Purinergic Receptors in Human Submucous Plexus: Involvement of P2X1, P2X2, P2X3 Channels, P2Y and A3 Metabotropic Receptors in Neurotransmission

PubMed Central

Liñán-Rico, A.; Wunderlich, JE.; Enneking, JT.; Tso, DR.; Grants, I.; Williams, KC.; Otey, A.; Michel, K.; Schemann, M.; Needleman, B.; Harzman, A.; Christofi, FL.

2015-01-01

Rationale The role of purinergic signaling in the human ENS is not well understood. We sought to further characterize the neuropharmacology of purinergic receptors in human ENS and test the hypothesis that endogenous purines are critical regulators of neurotransmission. Experimental Approach LSCM-Fluo-4-(Ca2+)-imaging of postsynaptic Ca2+ transients (PSCaTs) was used as a reporter of neural activity. Synaptic transmission was evoked by fiber tract electrical stimulation in human SMP surgical preparations. Pharmacological analysis of purinergic signaling was done in 1,556 neurons from 234 separate ganglia 107 patients; immunochemical labeling for P2XRs of neurons in ganglia from 19 patients. Real-time MSORT (Di-8-ANEPPS) imaging was used to test effects of adenosine on fast excitatory synaptic potentials (fEPSPs). Results Synaptic transmission is sensitive to pharmacological manipulations that alter accumulation of extracellular purines. Apyrase blocks PSCaTs in a majority of neurons. An ecto-NTPDase-inhibitor 6-N,N-diethyl-D-β,γ-dibromomethyleneATP or adenosine deaminase augments PSCaTs. Blockade of reuptake/deamination of eADO inhibits PSCaTs. Adenosine inhibits fEPSPs and PSCaTs (IC50=25μM), sensitive to MRS1220-antagonism (A3AR). A P2Y agonist ADPβS inhibits PSCaTs (IC50=111nM) in neurons without stimulatory ADPβS responses (EC50=960nM). ATP or a P2X1,2,2/3 (α,β-MeATP) agonist evokes fast, slow, biphasic Ca2+ transients or Ca2+ oscillations (EC50=400μM). PSCaTs are sensitive to P2X1 antagonist NF279. Low (20nM) or high (5μM) concentrations of P2X antagonist TNP-ATP block PSCaTs in different neurons; proportions of neurons with P2XR-ir follow the order P2X2>P2X1≫P2X3; P2X1+ P2X2 and P2X3+P2X2 are co-localized. RT-PCR identified mRNA-transcripts for P2X1-7,P2Y1,2,12-14R. Responsive neurons were also identified by HuC/D-ir. Conclusions Purines are critical regulators of neurotransmission in the human enteric nervous system. Purinergic signaling involves

The Evolutionary Landscape of Dbl-Like RhoGEF Families: Adapting Eukaryotic Cells to Environmental Signals

PubMed Central

Blangy, Anne

2017-01-01

Abstract The dynamics of cell morphology in eukaryotes is largely controlled by small GTPases of the Rho family. Rho GTPases are activated by guanine nucleotide exchange factors (RhoGEFs), of which diffuse B-cell lymphoma (Dbl)-like members form the largest family. Here, we surveyed Dbl-like sequences from 175 eukaryotic genomes and illuminate how the Dbl family evolved in all eukaryotic supergroups. By combining probabilistic phylogenetic approaches and functional domain analysis, we show that the human Dbl-like family is made of 71 members, structured into 20 subfamilies. The 71 members were already present in ancestral jawed vertebrates, but several members were subsequently lost in specific clades, up to 12% in birds. The jawed vertebrate repertoire was established from two rounds of duplications that occurred between tunicates, cyclostomes, and jawed vertebrates. Duplicated members showed distinct tissue distributions, conserved at least in Amniotes. All 20 subfamilies have members in Deuterostomes and Protostomes. Nineteen subfamilies are present in Porifera, the first phylum that diverged in Metazoa, 14 in Choanoflagellida and Filasterea, single-celled organisms closely related to Metazoa and three in Fungi, the sister clade to Metazoa. Other eukaryotic supergroups show an extraordinary variability of Dbl-like repertoires as a result of repeated and independent gain and loss events. Last, we observed that in Metazoa, the number of Dbl-like RhoGEFs varies in proportion of cell signaling complexity. Overall, our analysis supports the conclusion that Dbl-like RhoGEFs were present at the origin of eukaryotes and evolved as highly adaptive cell signaling mediators. PMID:28541439

Structural Basis for the ABO Blood-Group Dependence of Plasmodium falciparum Rosetting

PubMed Central

Hessel, Audrey; Raynal, Bertrand; England, Patrick; Cohen, Jacques H.; Bertrand, Olivier; Peyrard, Thierry; Bentley, Graham A.; Lewit-Bentley, Anita; Mercereau-Puijalon, Odile

2012-01-01

The ABO blood group influences susceptibility to severe Plasmodium falciparum malaria. Recent evidence indicates that the protective effect of group O operates by virtue of reduced rosetting of infected red blood cells (iRBCs) with uninfected RBCs. Rosetting is mediated by a subgroup of PfEMP1 adhesins, with RBC binding being assigned to the N-terminal DBL1α1 domain. Here, we identify the ABO blood group as the main receptor for VarO rosetting, with a marked preference for group A over group B, which in turn is preferred to group O RBCs. We show that recombinant NTS-DBL1α1 and NTS-DBL1α1-CIDR1γ reproduce the VarO-iRBC blood group preference and document direct binding to blood group trisaccharides by surface plasmon resonance. More detailed RBC subgroup analysis showed preferred binding to group A1, weaker binding to groups A2 and B, and least binding to groups Ax and O. The 2.8 Å resolution crystal structure of the PfEMP1-VarO Head region, NTS-DBL1α1-CIDR1γ, reveals extensive contacts between the DBL1α1 and CIDR1γ and shows that the NTS-DBL1α1 hinge region is essential for RBC binding. Computer docking of the blood group trisaccharides and subsequent site-directed mutagenesis localized the RBC-binding site to the face opposite to the heparin-binding site of NTS-DBLα1. RBC binding involves residues that are conserved between rosette-forming PfEMP1 adhesins, opening novel opportunities for intervention against severe malaria. By deciphering the structural basis of blood group preferences in rosetting, we provide a link between ABO blood grouppolymorphisms and rosette-forming adhesins, consistent with the selective role of falciparum malaria on human genetic makeup. PMID:22807674

Electromagnetic shielding effectiveness studies on polyaniline/CSA-WO3 composites at KU band frequencies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sastry, D. Nagesa; Revanasiddappa, M.; Suresh, T.; Kiran, Y. T. Ravi; Raghavendra, S. C.

2018-05-01

This paper highlights the Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) Shielding Effectiveness and electromagnetic wave attenuation behavior of Polyaniline/Camphor Sulphonic Acid (PANI-CSA) - tungsten oxide (WO3) composites. Insitu polymerization of aniline monomer with camphor sulphonic acid (CSA) as a dopant was carried out in the presence of ammonium persulphate an oxidizing agent to synthesize PANI-CSA tungsten oxide composites (PANI/CSA-WO3) by chemical oxidation method. The composites have been synthesized with various compositions (10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 wt %) of tungsten oxide in PANI/CSA matrix. The EMI shielding measurements were carried out in the broad microwave spectrum covering the frequency range from 12 to 18 GHz (Ku-Band). The results show the influence of tungsten oxide in PANI/CSA over the EMI shielding Effectiveness. The composites have shown excellent microwave absorption behavior confirmed by the EMI Shielding Effectiveness values of the order of -15 to -16 dB.

78 FR 16655 - Draft Damage Assessment, Restoration Plan and Environmental Assessment for the T/B DBL 152 Oil...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-03-18

..., Restoration Plan and Environmental Assessment for the T/B DBL 152 Oil Spill in the Gulf of Mexico AGENCY... Damage Assessment and Restoration Plan and Environmental Assessment for the T/B DBL 152 Oil Spill in the..., T/B DBL 152 oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. The purpose of this notice is to inform the public of...

Antigenic variation in malaria: in situ switching, relaxed and mutually exclusive transcription of var genes during intra-erythrocytic development in Plasmodium falciparum.

PubMed Central

Scherf, A; Hernandez-Rivas, R; Buffet, P; Bottius, E; Benatar, C; Pouvelle, B; Gysin, J; Lanzer, M

1998-01-01

Members of the Plasmodium falciparum var gene family encode clonally variant adhesins, which play an important role in the pathogenicity of tropical malaria. Here we employ a selective panning protocol to generate isogenic P.falciparum populations with defined adhesive phenotypes for CD36, ICAM-1 and CSA, expressing single and distinct var gene variants. This technique has established the framework for examining var gene expression, its regulation and switching. It was found that var gene switching occurs in situ. Ubiquitous transcription of all var gene variants appears to occur in early ring stages. However, var gene expression is tightly regulated in trophozoites and is exerted through a silencing mechanism. Transcriptional control is mutually exclusive in parasites that express defined adhesive phenotypes. In situ var gene switching is apparently mediated at the level of transcriptional initiation, as demonstrated by nuclear run-on analyses. Our results suggest that an epigenetic mechanism(s) is involved in var gene regulation. PMID:9736619

Effects of sex, parity, and sequence variation on seroreactivity to candidate pregnancy malaria vaccine antigens.

PubMed

Oleinikov, Andrew V; Rossnagle, Eddie; Francis, Susan; Mutabingwa, Theonest K; Fried, Michal; Duffy, Patrick E

2007-07-01

Plasmodium falciparum-infected erythrocytes adhere to chondroitin sulfate A (CSA) to sequester in the human placenta, and pregnancy malaria (PM) is associated with the development of disease in and the death of both mother and child. A PM vaccine appears to be feasible, because women become protected as they develop antibodies against placental infected erythrocytes (IEs). Two IE surface molecules, VAR1CSA and VAR2CSA, bind CSA in vitro and are potential vaccine candidates. We expressed all domains of VAR1CSA and VAR2CSA as mammalian cell surface proteins, using a novel approach that allows rapid purification, immobilization, and quantification of target antigen. For serum samples from East Africa, we measured reactivity to all domains, and we examined the effects of host sex and parity, as well as the effects of parasite antigenic variation. Serum samples obtained from multigravid women had a higher reactivity to all VAR2CSA domains than did those obtained from primigravid women or from men. Conversely, serum samples obtained from men had consistently higher reactivity to VAR1CSA domains than did those obtained from gravid women. Seroreactivity was strongly influenced by antigenic variation of VAR2CSA Duffy binding-like domains. Women acquire antibodies to VAR2CSA over successive pregnancies, but they lose reactivity to VAR1CSA. Serum reactivity to VAR2CSA is variant specific, and future studies should examine the degree to which functional antibodies, such as binding-inhibition antibodies, are variant specific.

Mutation update for the CSB/ERCC6 and CSA/ERCC8 genes involved in Cockayne syndrome.

PubMed

Laugel, V; Dalloz, C; Durand, M; Sauvanaud, F; Kristensen, U; Vincent, M C; Pasquier, L; Odent, S; Cormier-Daire, V; Gener, B; Tobias, E S; Tolmie, J L; Martin-Coignard, D; Drouin-Garraud, V; Heron, D; Journel, H; Raffo, E; Vigneron, J; Lyonnet, S; Murday, V; Gubser-Mercati, D; Funalot, B; Brueton, L; Sanchez Del Pozo, J; Muñoz, E; Gennery, A R; Salih, M; Noruzinia, M; Prescott, K; Ramos, L; Stark, Z; Fieggen, K; Chabrol, B; Sarda, P; Edery, P; Bloch-Zupan, A; Fawcett, H; Pham, D; Egly, J M; Lehmann, A R; Sarasin, A; Dollfus, H

2010-02-01

Cockayne syndrome is an autosomal recessive multisystem disorder characterized principally by neurological and sensory impairment, cachectic dwarfism, and photosensitivity. This rare disease is linked to mutations in the CSB/ERCC6 and CSA/ERCC8 genes encoding proteins involved in the transcription-coupled DNA repair pathway. The clinical spectrum of Cockayne syndrome encompasses a wide range of severity from severe prenatal forms to mild and late-onset presentations. We have reviewed the 45 published mutations in CSA and CSB to date and we report 43 new mutations in these genes together with the corresponding clinical data. Among the 84 reported kindreds, 52 (62%) have mutations in the CSB gene. Many types of mutations are scattered along the whole coding sequence of both genes, but clusters of missense mutations can be recognized and highlight the role of particular motifs in the proteins. Genotype-phenotype correlation hypotheses are considered with regard to these new molecular and clinical data. Additional cases of molecular prenatal diagnosis are reported and the strategy for prenatal testing is discussed. Two web-based locus-specific databases have been created to list all identified variants and to allow the inclusion of future reports (www.umd.be/CSA/ and www.umd.be/CSB/). (c) 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Protective Antibodies against Placental Malaria and Poor Outcomes during Pregnancy, Benin

PubMed Central

Denoeud-Ndam, Lise; Doritchamou, Justin; Viwami, Firmine; Salanti, Ali; Nielsen, Morten A.; Fievet, Nadine; Massougbodji, Achille; Luty, Adrian J.F.; Deloron, Philippe

2015-01-01

Placental malaria is caused by Plasmodium falciparum–infected erythrocytes that bind to placental tissue. Binding is mediated by VAR2CSA, a parasite antigen coded by the var gene, which interacts with chondroitin sulfate A (CSA). Consequences include maternal anemia and fetal growth retardation. Antibody-mediated immunity to placental malaria is acquired during successive pregnancies, but the target of VAR2CSA-specific protective antibodies is unclear. We assessed VAR2CSA-specific antibodies in pregnant women and analyzed their relationships with protection against placental infection, preterm birth, and low birthweight. Antibody responses to the N-terminal region of VAR2CSA during early pregnancy were associated with reduced risks for infections and low birthweight. Among women infected during pregnancy, an increase in CSA binding inhibition was associated with reduced risks for placental infection, preterm birth, and low birthweight. These data suggest that antibodies against VAR2CSA N-terminal region mediate immunity to placental malaria and associated outcomes. Our results validate current vaccine development efforts with VAR2CSA N-terminal constructs. PMID:25898123

Expressed var gene repertoire and variant surface antigen diversity in a shrinking Plasmodium falciparum population.

PubMed

Carlos, Bianca C; Fotoran, Wesley L; Menezes, Maria J; Cabral, Fernanda J; Bastos, Marcele F; Costa, Fabio T M; Sousa-Neto, Jayme A; Ribolla, Paulo E M; Wunderlich, Gerhard; Ferreira, Marcelo U

2016-11-01

The var gene-encoded erythrocyte membrane protein-1 of Plasmodium falciparum (PfEMP-1) is the main variant surface antigen (VSA) expressed on infected erythrocytes. The rate at which antibody responses to VSA expressed by circulating parasites are acquired depends on the size of the local VSA repertoire and the frequency of exposure to new VSA. Because parasites from areas with declining malaria endemicity, such as the Amazon, typically express a restricted PfEMP-1 repertoire, we hypothesized that Amazonians would rapidly acquire antibodies to most locally circulating VSA. Consistent with our expectations, the analysis of 5878 sequence tags expressed by 10 local P. falciparum samples revealed little PfEMP-1 DBL1α domain diversity. Among the most commonly expressed DBL1α types, 45% were shared by two or more independent parasite lines. Nevertheless, Amazonians displayed major gaps in their repertoire of anti-VSA antibodies, although the breadth of anti-VSA antibody responses correlated positively with their cumulative exposure to malaria. We found little antibody cross-reactivity even when testing VSA from related parasites expressing the same dominant DBL1α types. We conclude that variant-specific immunity to P. falciparum VSAs develops slowly despite the relatively restricted PfEMP-1 repertoire found in low-endemicity settings. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Central representation of postingestive chemosensory cues in mice that lack the ability to taste.

PubMed

Stratford, Jennifer M; Finger, Thomas E

2011-06-22

The gustatory nerves of mice lacking P2X2 and P2X3 purinergic receptor subunits (P2X-dblKO) are unresponsive to taste stimulation (Finger et al., 2005). Surprisingly, P2X-dblKO mice show residual behavioral responses to concentrated tastants, presumably via postingestive detection. Therefore, the current study tested whether postingestive signaling is functional in P2X-dblKO mice and if so, whether it activates the primary viscerosensory nucleus of the medulla, the nucleus of the solitary tract (nTS). Like WT animals, P2X-dblKO mice learned to prefer a flavor paired with 150 mm monosodium glutamate (MSG) over a flavor paired with water. This preference shows that, even in the absence of taste sensory input, postingestive cues are detected and associated with a flavor in P2X-dblKO mice. MSG-evoked neuronal activation in the nTS was measured by expression of the immediate early gene c-Fos [c-Fos-like immunoreactivity (Fos-LI)]. In rostral, gustatory nTS, P2X-dblKO animals, unlike WT animals, showed no taste quality-specific labeling of neurons. Furthermore, MSG-evoked Fos-LI was significantly less in P2X-dblKO mice compared with WT animals. In contrast, in more posterior, viscerosensory nTS, MSG-induced Fos-LI was similar in WT and P2X-dblKO mice. Together, these results suggest that P2X-dblKO mice can form preferences based on postingestive cues and that postingestive detection of MSG does not rely on the same purinergic signaling that is crucial for taste.

Burkitt lymphoma expresses oncofetal chondroitin sulfate without being a reservoir for placental malaria sequestration.

PubMed

Agerbaek, Mette Ø; Pereira, Marina A; Clausen, Thomas M; Pehrson, Caroline; Oo, Htoo Zarni; Spliid, Charlotte; Rich, Jamie R; Fung, Vincent; Nkrumah, Francis; Neequaye, Janet; Biggar, Robert J; Reynolds, Steven J; Tosato, Giovanna; Pullarkat, Sheeja T; Ayers, Leona W; Theander, Thor G; Daugaard, Mads; Bhatia, Kishor; Nielsen, Morten A; Mbulaiteye, Sam M; Salanti, Ali

2017-04-01

Burkitt lymphoma (BL) is a malignant disease, which is frequently found in areas with holoendemic Plasmodium falciparum malaria. We have previously found that the VAR2CSA protein is present on malaria-infected erythrocytes and facilitates a highly specific binding to the placenta. ofCS is absent in other non-malignant tissues and thus VAR2CSA generally facilitates parasite sequestration and accumulation in pregnant women. In this study, we show that the specific receptor for VAR2CSA, the oncofetal chondroitin sulfate (ofCS), is likewise present in BL tissue and cell lines. We therefore explored whether ofCS in BL could act as anchor site for VAR2CSA-expressing infected erythrocytes. In contrast to the placenta, we found no evidence of in vivo sequestering of infected erythrocytes in the BL tissue. Furthermore, we found VAR2CSA-specific antibody titers in children with endemic BL to be lower than in control children from the same malaria endemic region. The abundant presence of ofCS in BL tissue and the absence of ofCS in non-malignant tissue encouraged us to examine whether recombinant VAR2CSA could be used to target BL. We confirmed the binding of VAR2CSA to BL-derived cells and showed that a VAR2CSA drug conjugate efficiently killed the BL-derived cell lines in vitro. These results identify ofCS as a novel therapeutic BL target and highlight how VAR2CSA could be used as a tool for the discovery of novel approaches for directing BL therapy. © 2016 UICC.

Burkitt lymphoma express oncofetal Chondroitin Sulfate without being a reservoir for placental malaria sequestration

PubMed Central

Agerbæk, Mette Ø.; Pereira, Marina A.; Clausen, Thomas M.; Pehrson, Caroline; Oo, Htoo Zarni; Spliid, Charlotte; Rich, Jamie R.; Fung, Vincent; Nkrumah, Francis; Neequaye, Janet; Biggar, Robert J.; Reynolds, Steven J.; Tosato, Giovanna; Pullarkat, Sheeja T.; Ayers, Leona W.; Theander, Thor G.; Daugaard, Mads; Bhatia, Kishor; Nielsen, Morten A.; Mbulaiteye, Sam M.; Salanti, Ali

2016-01-01

Burkitt lymphoma (BL) is a malignant disease, which is frequently found in areas with holoendemic Plasmodium falciparum malaria. We have previously found that the VAR2CSA protein is present on malaria-infected erythrocytes and facilitates a highly specific binding to the placenta. OfCS is absent from other non-malignant tissues and thus VAR2CSA generally facilitates parasite sequestration and accumulation in pregnant women. In this study, we show that the specific receptor for VAR2CSA, the oncofetal chondroitin sulfate (ofCS), is likewise present in BL tissue and cell lines. We therefore explored whether ofCS in BL could act as anchor-site for VAR2CSA-expressing infected erythrocytes. In contrast to the placenta, we found no evidence of in vivo sequestering of infected erythrocytes in the BL tissue. Furthermore, we found VAR2CSA specific antibody titers in children with endemic BL to be lower than in control children from the same malaria endemic region. The abundant presence of ofCS in BL tissue and the absence of ofCS in non-malignant tissue, encouraged us to examine whether recombinant VAR2CSA could be used to target BL. We confirmed the binding of VAR2CSA to BL-derived cells and showed that a VAR2CSA drug conjugate efficiently killed the BL-derived cell lines in vitro. These results identify ofCS as a novel therapeutic BL target and highlight how VAR2CSA could be used as a tool for the discovery of novel approaches for directing BL therapy. PMID:27997697

Subtype-specific regulation of P2X3 and P2X2/3 receptors by phosphoinositides in peripheral nociceptors

PubMed Central

Mo, Gary; Bernier, Louis-Philippe; Zhao, Qi; Chabot-Doré, Anne-Julie; Ase, Ariel R; Logothetis, Diomedes; Cao, Chang-Qing; Séguéla, Philippe

2009-01-01

Background P2X3 and P2X2/3 purinergic receptor-channels, expressed in primary sensory neurons that mediate nociception, have been implicated in neuropathic and inflammatory pain responses. The phospholipids phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) and phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate (PIP3) are involved in functional modulation of several types of ion channels. We report here evidence that these phospholipids are able to modulate the function of homomeric P2X3 and heteromeric P2X2/3 purinoceptors expressed in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) nociceptors and in heterologous expression systems. Results In dissociated rat DRG neurons, incubation with the PI3K/PI4K inhibitor wortmannin at 35 μM induced a dramatic decrease in the amplitude of ATP- or α,β-meATP-evoked P2X3 currents, while incubation with 100 nM wortmannin (selective PI3K inhibition) produced no significant effect. Intracellular application of PIP2 was able to fully reverse the inhibition of P2X3 currents induced by wortmannin. In Xenopus oocytes and in HEK293 cells expressing recombinant P2X3, 35 μM wortmannin incubation induced a significant decrease in the rate of receptor recovery. Native and recombinant P2X2/3 receptor-mediated currents were inhibited by incubation with wortmannin both at 35 μM and 100 nM. The decrease of P2X2/3 current amplitude induced by wortmannin could be partially reversed by application of PIP2 or PIP3, indicating a sensitivity to both phosphoinositides in DRG neurons and Xenopus oocytes. Using a lipid binding assay, we demonstrate that the C-terminus of the P2X2 subunit binds directly to PIP2, PIP3 and other phosphoinositides. In contrast, no direct binding was detected between the C-terminus of P2X3 subunit and phosphoinositides. Conclusion Our findings indicate a functional regulation of homomeric P2X3 and heteromeric P2X2/3 ATP receptors by phosphoinositides in the plasma membrane of DRG nociceptors, based on subtype-specific mechanisms of direct and indirect

Withanolides from Jaborosa caulescens var. bipinnatifida

PubMed Central

Zhang, Huaping; Cao, Cong-Mei; Gallagher, Robert J.; Day, Victor W.; Montenegro, Gloria; Timmermann, Barbara N.

2013-01-01

Two new withanolides 2,3-dihydrotrechonolide A (1) and 2,3-dihydro-21-hydroxytrechonolide A (2) were isolated along with two known withanolides trechonolide A (3) and jaborosalactone 39 (4) from Jaborosa caulescens var. bipinnatifida (Solanaceae). The structures of 1-2 were elucidated through 2D NMR and other spectroscopic techniques. In addition, the structure of withanolide 1 was confirmed by X-ray crystallographic analysis. PMID:24314746

Initial Assessment of CSA Group Niobium Boron Based Coatings on 4340 Steel

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-07-01

Technical Report ARWSB-TR-17026 Initial Assessment of CSA Group Niobium- Boron Based Coatings on 4340 Steel C.P. Mulligan...REPORT TYPE Technical 3. DATES COVERED (From - To) 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE Initial Assessment of CSA Group Niobium- Boron Based Coatings on 4340...metallographic mounts reported as (1) thin and (2) thick Niobium- Boron (Nb-B) type coatings on steel. CSA Group is interested in providing coatings for potential

Withanolides from Jaborosa caulescens var. bipinnatifida.

PubMed

Zhang, Huaping; Cao, Cong-Mei; Gallagher, Robert J; Day, Victor W; Montenegro, Gloria; Timmermann, Barbara N

2014-02-01

Withanolides 2,3-dihydrotrechonolide A (1) and 2,3-dihydro-21-hydroxytrechonolide A (2) were isolated along with two known withanolides trechonolide A (3) and jaborosalactone 39 (4) from Jaborosa caulescens var. bipinnatifida (Solanaceae). The structures of 1-2 were elucidated through 2D NMR and other spectroscopic techniques. In addition, the structure of withanolide 1 was confirmed by X-ray crystallographic analysis. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Voltage stability index based optimal placement of static VAR compensator and sizing using Cuckoo search algorithm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Venkateswara Rao, B.; Kumar, G. V. Nagesh; Chowdary, D. Deepak; Bharathi, M. Aruna; Patra, Stutee

2017-07-01

This paper furnish the new Metaheuristic algorithm called Cuckoo Search Algorithm (CSA) for solving optimal power flow (OPF) problem with minimization of real power generation cost. The CSA is found to be the most efficient algorithm for solving single objective optimal power flow problems. The CSA performance is tested on IEEE 57 bus test system with real power generation cost minimization as objective function. Static VAR Compensator (SVC) is one of the best shunt connected device in the Flexible Alternating Current Transmission System (FACTS) family. It has capable of controlling the voltage magnitudes of buses by injecting the reactive power to system. In this paper SVC is integrated in CSA based Optimal Power Flow to optimize the real power generation cost. SVC is used to improve the voltage profile of the system. CSA gives better results as compared to genetic algorithm (GA) in both without and with SVC conditions.

Immunocytochemical analysis of P2X2 in rat circumvallate taste buds.

PubMed

Yang, Ruibiao; Montoya, Alana; Bond, Amanda; Walton, Jenna; Kinnamon, John C

2012-05-23

Our laboratory has shown that classical synapses and synaptic proteins are associated with Type III cells. Yet it is generally accepted that Type II cells transduce bitter, sweet and umami stimuli. No classical synapses, however, have been found associated with Type II cells. Recent studies indicate that the ionotropic purinergic receptors P2X2/P2X3 are present in rodent taste buds. Taste nerve processes express the ionotropic purinergic receptors (P2X2/P2X3). P2X2/P2X3(Dbl-/-) mice are not responsive to sweet, umami and bitter stimuli, and it has been proposed that ATP acts as a neurotransmitter in taste buds. The goal of the present study is to learn more about the nature of purinergic contacts in rat circumvallate taste buds by examining immunoreactivity to antisera directed against the purinergic receptor P2X2. P2X2-like immunoreactivity is present in intragemmal nerve processes in rat circumvallate taste buds. Intense immunoreactivity can also be seen in the subgemmal nerve plexuses located below the basal lamina. The P2X2 immunoreactive nerve processes also display syntaxin-1-LIR. The immunoreactive nerves are in close contact with the IP(3)R3-LIR Type II cells and syntaxin-1-LIR and/or 5-HT-LIR Type III cells. Taste cell synapses are observed only from Type III taste cells onto P2X2-LIR nerve processes. Unusually large, "atypical" mitochondria in the Type II taste cells are found only at close appositions with P2X2-LIR nerve processes. P2X2 immunogold particles are concentrated at the membranes of nerve processes at close appositions with taste cells. Based on our immunofluorescence and immunoelectron microscopical studies we believe that both perigemmal and most all intragemmal nerve processes display P2X2-LIR. Moreover, colloidal gold immunoelectron microscopy indicates that P2X2-LIR in nerve processes is concentrated at sites of close apposition with Type II cells. This supports the hypothesis that ATP may be a key neurotransmitter in taste transduction

3,4-Dihydroxybenzalactone Suppresses Human Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma Cells Metastasis via Suppression of Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition, ROS-Mediated PI3K/AKT/MAPK/MMP and NFκB Signaling Pathways.

PubMed

Chao, Wei; Deng, Jeng-Shyan; Li, Pei-Ying; Liang, Yu-Chia; Huang, Guan-Jhong

2017-03-28

3,4-Dihydroxybenzalactone (DBL) was isolated from Phellinus linteus (PL), which is a folk medicine possessing various physiological effects. In this study, we used highly metastatic A549 cells to investigate efficacy of DBL inhibition of cancer metastasis and possible mechanisms. The results revealed DBL inhibited migratory and invasive abilities of cancer cells at noncytotoxic concentrations. We found DBL suppressed enzymatic activities, protein expression, and RNA levels of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9. Western blot results showed DBL decreased phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT, phosphorylation status of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), and focal adhesion kinase (FAK)/paxillin, which correlated with cell migratory ability. DBL also affected epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related biomarkers. In addition, DBL enhanced cytoprotective effects through elevated antioxidant enzymes including heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1), catalase, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Moreover, DBL influenced the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor κB (NFκB), nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), Snail, and Slug in A549 cells. Taken together, these results suggested that treatment with DBL may act as a potential candidate to inhibit lung cancer metastasis by inhibiting MMP-2 and -9 via affecting PI3K/AKT, MAPKs, FAK/paxillin, EMT/Snail and Slug, Nrf2/antioxidant enzymes, and NFκB signaling pathways.

csa2sac—A program for computing discharge from continuous slope-area stage data

USGS Publications Warehouse

Wiele, Stephen M.

2015-12-17

In addition to csa2sac, the SAC7 program is required. It is the same as the original SAC program, except that it is compiled for 64-bit Windows operating systems and has a slightly different command line input. It is available online (http://water.usgs.gov/software/SAC/) as part of the SACGUI installation program. The program name, “SAC7.exe,” is coded into csa2sac, and must not be changed.

Detoxification of Benzoxazolinone Allelochemicals from Wheat by Gaeumannomyces graminis var. tritici, G. graminis var. graminis, G. graminis var. avenae, and Fusarium culmorum

PubMed Central

Friebe, A.; Vilich, V.; Hennig, L.; Kluge, M.; Sicker, D.

1998-01-01

The ability of phytopathogenic fungi to overcome the chemical defense barriers of their host plants is of great importance for fungal pathogenicity. We studied the role of cyclic hydroxamic acids and their related benzoxazolinones in plant interactions with pathogenic fungi. We identified species-dependent differences in the abilities of Gaeumannomyces graminis var. tritici, Gaeumannomyces graminis var. graminis, Gaeumannomyces graminis var. avenae, and Fusarium culmorum to detoxify these allelochemicals of gramineous plants. The G. graminis var. graminis isolate degraded benzoxazolin-2(3H)-one (BOA) and 6-methoxy-benzoxazolin-2(3H)-one (MBOA) more efficiently than did G. graminis var. tritici and G. graminis var. avenae. F. culmorum degraded BOA but not MBOA. N-(2-Hydroxyphenyl)-malonamic acid and N-(2-hydroxy-4-methoxyphenyl)-malonamic acid were the primary G. graminis var. graminis and G. graminis var. tritici metabolites of BOA and MBOA, respectively, as well as of the related cyclic hydroxamic acids. 2-Amino-3H-phenoxazin-3-one was identified as an additional G. graminis var. tritici metabolite of BOA. No metabolite accumulation was detected for G. graminis var. avenae and F. culmorum by high-pressure liquid chromatography. The mycelial growth of the pathogenic fungi was inhibited more by BOA and MBOA than by their related fungal metabolites. The tolerance of Gaeumannomyces spp. for benzoxazolinone compounds is correlated with their detoxification ability. The ability of Gaeumannomyces isolates to cause root rot symptoms in wheat (cultivars Rektor and Astron) parallels their potential to degrade wheat allelochemicals to nontoxic compounds. PMID:9647804

P2X2 knockout mice and P2X2/P2X3 double knockout mice reveal a role for the P2X2 receptor subunit in mediating multiple sensory effects of ATP

PubMed Central

Cockayne, Debra A; Dunn, Philip M; Zhong, Yu; Rong, Weifang; Hamilton, Sara G; Knight, Gillian E; Ruan, Huai-Zhen; Ma, Bei; Yip, Ping; Nunn, Philip; McMahon, Stephen B; Burnstock, Geoffrey; Ford, Anthony PDW

2005-01-01

Extracellular ATP plays a role in nociceptive signalling and sensory regulation of visceral function through ionotropic receptors variably composed of P2X2 and P2X3 subunits. P2X2 and P2X3 subunits can form homomultimeric P2X2, homomultimeric P2X3, or heteromultimeric P2X2/3 receptors. However, the relative contribution of these receptor subtypes to afferent functions of ATP in vivo is poorly understood. Here we describe null mutant mice lacking the P2X2 receptor subunit (P2X2−/−) and double mutant mice lacking both P2X2 and P2X3 subunits (P2X2/P2X3Dbl−/−), and compare these with previously characterized P2X3−/− mice. In patch-clamp studies, nodose, coeliac and superior cervical ganglia (SCG) neurones from wild-type mice responded to ATP with sustained inward currents, while dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurones gave predominantly transient currents. Sensory neurones from P2X2−/− mice responded to ATP with only transient inward currents, while sympathetic neurones had barely detectable responses. Neurones from P2X2/P2X3Dbl−/− mice had minimal to no response to ATP. These data indicate that P2X receptors on sensory and sympathetic ganglion neurones involve almost exclusively P2X2 and P2X3 subunits. P2X2−/− and P2X2/P2X3Dbl−/− mice had reduced pain-related behaviours in response to intraplantar injection of formalin. Significantly, P2X3−/−, P2X2−/−, and P2X2/P2X3Dbl−/− mice had reduced urinary bladder reflexes and decreased pelvic afferent nerve activity in response to bladder distension. No deficits in a wide variety of CNS behavioural tests were observed in P2X2−/− mice. Taken together, these data extend our findings for P2X3−/− mice, and reveal an important contribution of heteromeric P2X2/3 receptors to nociceptive responses and mechanosensory transduction within the urinary bladder. PMID:15961431

Evaluation of the CSA 2010 operational model test.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-08-01

"In accordance with its primary mission to reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities involving large trucks and buses, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) initiated the Comprehensive Safety Analysis 2010 (CSA 2010) Operational Mode...

Development of the WRF-CO2 4D-Var assimilation system v1.0

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zheng, Tao; French, Nancy H. F.; Baxter, Martin

2018-05-01

Regional atmospheric CO2 inversions commonly use Lagrangian particle trajectory model simulations to calculate the required influence function, which quantifies the sensitivity of a receptor to flux sources. In this paper, an adjoint-based four-dimensional variational (4D-Var) assimilation system, WRF-CO2 4D-Var, is developed to provide an alternative approach. This system is developed based on the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) modeling system, including the system coupled to chemistry (WRF-Chem), with tangent linear and adjoint codes (WRFPLUS), and with data assimilation (WRFDA), all in version 3.6. In WRF-CO2 4D-Var, CO2 is modeled as a tracer and its feedback to meteorology is ignored. This configuration allows most WRF physical parameterizations to be used in the assimilation system without incurring a large amount of code development. WRF-CO2 4D-Var solves for the optimized CO2 flux scaling factors in a Bayesian framework. Two variational optimization schemes are implemented for the system: the first uses the limited memory Broyden-Fletcher-Goldfarb-Shanno (BFGS) minimization algorithm (L-BFGS-B) and the second uses the Lanczos conjugate gradient (CG) in an incremental approach. WRFPLUS forward, tangent linear, and adjoint models are modified to include the physical and dynamical processes involved in the atmospheric transport of CO2. The system is tested by simulations over a domain covering the continental United States at 48 km × 48 km grid spacing. The accuracy of the tangent linear and adjoint models is assessed by comparing against finite difference sensitivity. The system's effectiveness for CO2 inverse modeling is tested using pseudo-observation data. The results of the sensitivity and inverse modeling tests demonstrate the potential usefulness of WRF-CO2 4D-Var for regional CO2 inversions.

CSA/AZA, in the absence of prednisone, improves linear growth in renal transplanted children.

PubMed

David-Neto, E; Nahas, W; Sampaio, E C; Ianhez, L E; Sabbaga, E; Arap, S

1992-01-01

We compared the results of 44 renal transplants in children, of whom 24 were treated with CSA/AZA and 20 with prednisone in combination with AZA and/or CSA. There were no differences in age distribution or mean ages at transplant between the two treatment groups. The CSA/AZA group had a longer follow-up (29 +/- 33 vs 17 +/- 18 months). At the last follow-up, five children in the CSA/AZA and none in the prednisone group had lost their grafts. Serum creatinine increased in both groups from 0.7 +/- 0.1 mg/dl and 0.9 +/- 0.1 mg/dl at the end of the first month to 1.1 +/- 0.2 mg/dl in the 36th month (CSA/AZA group) (P < 0.0001) and to 1.5 +/- 0.6 mg/dl in the 18th month (prednisone group) (P < 0.05), respectively. Total cholesterol level was 189 +/- 52 mg/dl and 178 +/- 60 mg/dl and LDL level was 117 +/- 48 mg/dl and 115 +/- 51 mg/dl for the prednisone and CSA/AZA groups, respectively. HDL was greater in the CSA/AZA group (50 +/- 10 vs 41 +/- 10 mg/dl) (P < 0.03), and VLDL was greater in the prednisone group (31 +/- 13 vs 22 +/- 8 mg/dl) (P < 0.05). Serum triglyceride was greater in the prednisone group (174 +/- 93 vs 112 +/- 50 mg/dl) (P < 0.03). The standard deviation score for height of the children in the prednisone group did not change (-2.4 +/- 1.4 vs -2.1 +/- 1.4 SDS), whereas the SDS height score for the CSA/AZA children increased from -3.1 +/- 1.7 to -2.6 +/- 1.5, -1.9 +/- 1.4 and -1.7 +/- 1.4, at 12, 24 and 36 months, respectively (P < 0.001). CSA/AZA is a good immunosuppressive regime for the first renal transplant in children, but only 75% tolerated AZA/CSA without same damage to their grafts.

Y0.08Sr0.88TiO3-CeO2 composite as a diffusion barrier layer for stainless-steel supported solid oxide fuel cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Kun Joong; Kim, Sun Jae; Choi, Gyeong Man

2016-03-01

A new diffusion barrier layer (DBL) is proposed for solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) supported on stainless-steel where DBL prevents inter-diffusion of atoms between anode and stainless steel (STS) support during fabrication and operation of STS-supported SOFCs. Half cells consisting of dense yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) electrolyte, porous Ni-YSZ anode layer, and ferritic STS support, with or without Y0.08Sr0.88TiO3-CeO2 (YST-CeO2) composite DBL, are prepared by tape casting and co-firing at 1250 and 1350 °C, respectively, in reducing (H2) atmosphere. The porous YST-CeO2 layer (t ∼ 60 μm) blocks inter-diffusion of Fe and Ni, and captures the evaporated Cr during cell fabrication (1350 °C). The cell with DBL and La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3-δ (LSCF) cathode achieved a maximum power density of ∼220 mW cm-2 which is stable at 700 °C. In order to further improve the power performance, Ni coarsening in anode during co-firing must be prevented or alternative anode which is resistive to coarsening is suggested. This study demonstrates that the new YST-CeO2 layer is a promising as a DBL for stainless-steel-supported SOFCs fabricated with co-firing process.

Evaluation of the CSA 2010 Operational Model Test: Full Report

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-08-01

In accordance with its primary mission to reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities involving large trucks and buses, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) initiated the Comprehensive Safety Analysis 2010 (CSA 2010) Operational Model...

Dynamic CO₂ inhalation: a novel treatment for CSR-CSA associated with CHF.

PubMed

Wan, Zhi Hui; Wen, Fang Jing; Hu, Ke

2013-05-01

Cheyne-Stokes respiration with central sleep apnea (CSR-CSA) is very common in patients with chronic congestive heart failure (CHF). A current concept of the key pathophysiological mechanism leading to CSR-CSA is a fluctuation of PaCO2 below and above the apneic threshold. A number of therapeutic approaches for CSR-CSA have been proposed-all with varying success, some of which include various modes of positive airway pressure among other strategies. However, CO2 oscillations seen in CSR-CSA have yet to be looked at as a specific therapeutic target by current treatments. Previous studies have shown that delivery of constant CO2 is efficacious in eliminating CSR-CSA by raising PaCO2, but there are serious concerns about the potential side effects, such as unwanted elevations in ventilation, work of breathing, and sympathetic nerve activity (SNA), and consequently CO2 inhalation therapy has not been recommended as a routine option for therapy. However, recent new studies into CO2 inhalation therapy have been made that may reshape its role as therapeutic. In this review, we will focus on the recent developments of administration of dynamic CO2 in the management of CSR-CSA in CHF patients.

B-Cell Responses to Pregnancy-Restricted and -Unrestricted Plasmodium falciparum Erythrocyte Membrane Protein 1 Antigens in Ghanaian Women Naturally Exposed to Malaria Parasites

PubMed Central

Ampomah, Paulina; Stevenson, Liz; Ofori, Michael F.; Barfod, Lea

2014-01-01

Protective immunity to Plasmodium falciparum malaria acquired after natural exposure is largely antibody mediated. IgG-specific P. falciparum EMP1 (PfEMP1) proteins on the infected erythrocyte surface are particularly important. The transient antibody responses and the slowly acquired protective immunity probably reflect the clonal antigenic variation and allelic polymorphism of PfEMP1. However, it is likely that other immune-evasive mechanisms are also involved, such as interference with formation and maintenance of immunological memory. We measured PfEMP1-specific antibody levels by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and memory B-cell frequencies by enzyme-linked immunosorbent spot (ELISPOT) assay in a cohort of P. falciparum-exposed nonpregnant Ghanaian women. The antigens used were a VAR2CSA-type PfEMP1 (IT4VAR04) with expression restricted to parasites infecting the placenta, as well as two commonly recognized PfEMP1 proteins (HB3VAR06 and IT4VAR60) implicated in rosetting and not pregnancy restricted. This enabled, for the first time, a direct comparison in the same individuals of immune responses specific for a clinically important parasite antigen expressed only during well-defined periods (pregnancy) to responses specific for comparable antigens expressed independent of pregnancy. Our data indicate that PfEMP1-specific B-cell memory is adequately acquired even when antigen exposure is infrequent (e.g., VAR2CSA-type PfEMP1). Furthermore, immunological memory specific for VAR2CSA-type PfEMP1 can be maintained for many years without antigen reexposure and after circulating antigen-specific IgG has disappeared. The study provides evidence that natural exposure to P. falciparum leads to formation of durable B-cell immunity to clinically important PfEMP1 antigens. This has encouraging implications for current efforts to develop PfEMP1-based vaccines. PMID:24566620

The distinct proteome of placental malaria parasites.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Fried, Michal; Hixson, Kim K.; Anderson, Lori

Malaria proteins expressed on the surface of Plasmodium falciparum infected erythrocytes (IE) mediate adhesion and are targeted by protective immune responses. During pregnancy, IE sequester in the placenta. Placental IE bind to the molecule chondroitin sulfate A (CSA) and preferentially transcribe the gene that encodes VAR2CSA, a member of the PfEMP1 variant surface antigen family. Over successive pregnancies women develop specific immunity to CSA-binding IE and antibodies to VAR2CSA. We used tandem mass spectrometry together with accurate mass and time tag technology to study IE membrane fractions of placental parasites. VAR2CSA peptides were detected in placental IE and in IEmore » from children, but the MC variant of VAR2CSA was specifically associated with placental IE. We identified six conserved hypothetical proteins with putative TM or signal peptides that were exclusively expressed by the placental IE, and 11 such proteins that were significantly more abundant in placental IE. One of these hypothetical proteins, PFI1785w, is a 42kDa molecule detected by Western blot in parasites infecting pregnant women but not those infecting children.« less

Elliptic Curve Integral Points on y2 = x3 + 3x ‑ 14

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Jianhong

2018-03-01

The positive integer points and integral points of elliptic curves are very important in the theory of number and arithmetic algebra, it has a wide range of applications in cryptography and other fields. There are some results of positive integer points of elliptic curve y 2 = x 3 + ax + b, a, b ∈ Z In 1987, D. Zagier submit the question of the integer points on y 2 = x 3 ‑ 27x + 62, it count a great deal to the study of the arithmetic properties of elliptic curves. In 2009, Zhu H L and Chen J H solved the problem of the integer points on y 2 = x 3 ‑ 27x + 62 by using algebraic number theory and P-adic analysis method. In 2010, By using the elementary method, Wu H M obtain all the integral points of elliptic curves y 2 = x 3 ‑ 27x ‑ 62. In 2015, Li Y Z and Cui B J solved the problem of the integer points on y 2 = x 3 ‑ 21x ‑ 90 By using the elementary method. In 2016, Guo J solved the problem of the integer points on y 2 = x 3 + 27x + 62 by using the elementary method. In 2017, Guo J proved that y 2 = x 3 ‑ 21x + 90 has no integer points by using the elementary method. Up to now, there is no relevant conclusions on the integral points of elliptic curves y 2 = x 3 + 3x ‑ 14, which is the subject of this paper. By using congruence and Legendre Symbol, it can be proved that elliptic curve y 2 = x 3 + 3x ‑ 14 has only one integer point: (x, y) = (2, 0).

Reduced Leukocyte Infiltration in Absence of Eosinophils Correlates with Decreased Tissue Damage and Disease Susceptibility in ΔdblGATA Mice during Murine Neurocysticercosis.

PubMed

Mishra, Pramod K; Li, Qun; Munoz, Luis E; Mares, Chris A; Morris, Elizabeth G; Teale, Judy M; Cardona, Astrid E

2016-06-01

Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is one of the most common helminth parasitic diseases of the central nervous system (CNS) and the leading cause of acquired epilepsy worldwide. NCC is caused by the presence of the metacestode larvae of the tapeworm Taenia solium within brain tissues. NCC patients exhibit a long asymptomatic phase followed by a phase of symptoms including increased intra-cranial pressure and seizures. While the asymptomatic phase is attributed to the immunosuppressive capabilities of viable T. solium parasites, release of antigens by dying organisms induce strong immune responses and associated symptoms. Previous studies in T. solium-infected pigs have shown that the inflammatory response consists of various leukocyte populations including eosinophils, macrophages, and T cells among others. Because the role of eosinophils within the brain has not been investigated during NCC, we examined parasite burden, disease susceptibility and the composition of the inflammatory reaction in the brains of infected wild type (WT) and eosinophil-deficient mice (ΔdblGATA) using a murine model of NCC in which mice were infected intracranially with Mesocestoides corti, a cestode parasite related to T. solium. In WT mice, we observed a time-dependent induction of eosinophil recruitment in infected mice, contrasting with an overall reduced leukocyte infiltration in ΔdblGATA brains. Although, ΔdblGATA mice exhibited an increased parasite burden, reduced tissue damage and less disease susceptibility was observed when compared to infected WT mice. Cellular infiltrates in infected ΔdblGATA mice were comprised of more mast cells, and αβ T cells, which correlated with an abundant CD8+ T cell response and reduced CD4+ Th1 and Th2 responses. Thus, our data suggest that enhanced inflammatory response in WT mice appears detrimental and associates with increased disease susceptibility, despite the reduced parasite burden in the CNS. Overall reduced leukocyte infiltration due to

Reduced Leukocyte Infiltration in Absence of Eosinophils Correlates with Decreased Tissue Damage and Disease Susceptibility in ΔdblGATA Mice during Murine Neurocysticercosis

PubMed Central

Mishra, Pramod K.; Li, Qun; Munoz, Luis E.; Mares, Chris A.; Morris, Elizabeth G.; Teale, Judy M.; Cardona, Astrid E.

2016-01-01

Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is one of the most common helminth parasitic diseases of the central nervous system (CNS) and the leading cause of acquired epilepsy worldwide. NCC is caused by the presence of the metacestode larvae of the tapeworm Taenia solium within brain tissues. NCC patients exhibit a long asymptomatic phase followed by a phase of symptoms including increased intra-cranial pressure and seizures. While the asymptomatic phase is attributed to the immunosuppressive capabilities of viable T. solium parasites, release of antigens by dying organisms induce strong immune responses and associated symptoms. Previous studies in T. solium-infected pigs have shown that the inflammatory response consists of various leukocyte populations including eosinophils, macrophages, and T cells among others. Because the role of eosinophils within the brain has not been investigated during NCC, we examined parasite burden, disease susceptibility and the composition of the inflammatory reaction in the brains of infected wild type (WT) and eosinophil-deficient mice (ΔdblGATA) using a murine model of NCC in which mice were infected intracranially with Mesocestoides corti, a cestode parasite related to T. solium. In WT mice, we observed a time-dependent induction of eosinophil recruitment in infected mice, contrasting with an overall reduced leukocyte infiltration in ΔdblGATA brains. Although, ΔdblGATA mice exhibited an increased parasite burden, reduced tissue damage and less disease susceptibility was observed when compared to infected WT mice. Cellular infiltrates in infected ΔdblGATA mice were comprised of more mast cells, and αβ T cells, which correlated with an abundant CD8+ T cell response and reduced CD4+ Th1 and Th2 responses. Thus, our data suggest that enhanced inflammatory response in WT mice appears detrimental and associates with increased disease susceptibility, despite the reduced parasite burden in the CNS. Overall reduced leukocyte infiltration due to

MEMS/ECD Method for Making Bi(2-x)Sb(x)Te3 Thermoelectric Devices

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lim, James; Huang, Chen-Kuo; Ryan, Margaret; Snyder, G. Jeffrey; Herman, Jennifer; Fleurial, Jean-Pierre

2008-01-01

A method of fabricating Bi(2-x)Sb(x)Te3-based thermoelectric microdevices involves a combination of (1) techniques used previously in the fabrication of integrated circuits and of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) and (2) a relatively inexpensive MEMS-oriented electrochemical-deposition (ECD) technique. The present method overcomes the limitations of prior MEMS fabrication techniques and makes it possible to satisfy requirements.

P2X7R is involved in the progression of atherosclerosis by promoting NLRP3 inflammasome activation

PubMed Central

PENG, KUANG; LIU, LUSHAN; WEI, DANGHENG; LV, YUNCHENG; WANG, GANG; XIONG, WENHAO; WANG, XIAOQING; ALTAF, AFRASYAB; WANG, LILI; HE, DAN; WANG, HONGYAN; QU, PENG

2015-01-01

Purinergic 2X7 receptor (P2X7R) and nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) are expressed in macrophages in atherosclerotic lesions. However, the mechanisms through which P2X7R participates in the inflammatory response in atherosclerosis remain largely unknown. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of P2X7R in atherosclerosis and the mechanisms of action of the NLRP3 inflammasome following stimulation with oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL). We observed the expression and distribution of P2X7R in the atherosclerotic plaque in the coronary arteries from an autopsy specimen and in that of the aortic sinuses of apoE−/− mice by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence staining. The specificity of short interfering RNA (siRNA) was used to suppress P2X7R and NLRP3 mRNA expression. RT-qPCR and western blot analysis were used to analyze mRNA and protein expression, respectively. Co-immunoprecipitation was used to examine the interaction between protein kinase R (PKR) phosphorylation and NLRP3. P2X7R and NLRP3 were expressed at high levels in the atherosclerotic plaque in the coronary arteries. Stimulation with oxLDL upregulated P2X7R, NLRP3 and interleukin (IL)-1β expression. P2X7R knockdown by siRNA suppressed NLRP3 inflammasome activation by inhibiting the PKR phosphorylation mediated by oxLDL. In the atherosclerotic lesions in the aortic sinuses of apoE−/− mice, P2X7R expression was found at high levels. Moreover, P2X7R siRNA attenuated the development of atherosclerosis in the apoE−/− mice. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that P2X7R plays a significant role in the development of atherosclerosis and regulates NLRP3 inflammasome activation by promoting PKR phosphorylation. PMID:25761252

Willingness to disclose child maltreatment: CSA vs other forms of child abuse in relation to gender.

PubMed

Lev-Wiesel, Rachel; First, Maya

2018-05-01

The aim of the study was to examine the role of gender in willingness to disclose childhood sexual abuse (CSA) compared to other forms of abuse (physical, emotional and neglect) in young adolescents. Willingness was examined through two terms: reluctance- the level of unwillingness or disinclination to disclose, and urge-the need to share in order to get rid of unbearable feelings. The sample consisted of 3,156 boys (n = 1,544) and girls (n = 1,612) between the ages of 11-16 who reported having been abused at least once during their life. Participants were divided into three groups: experiencing other than CSA, sexual abuse with no physical contact, and sexual abuse with physical contact. Regarding measures, a self-report questionnaire incorporating the following instruments was administered: Demographics, the Juvenile Victimization Questionnaire (JVQ), and the Disclosure of Trauma Questionnaire (DTQ). Study results indicated that CSA victims were more reluctant to disclose than victims of other than CSA forms of abuse. The more severe the CSA (physical contact) the lower was the willingness to disclose. Boys were more reluctant than girls to disclose sexual abuse whether or not it involved physical contact. Reluctance to disclose was positively associated with emotional reactions to disclosure while urge to talk was negatively correlated with emotional reactions to disclosure. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

CSA-90 Promotes Bone Formation and Mitigates Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus Infection in a Rat Open Fracture Model.

PubMed

Mills, Rebecca; Cheng, Tegan L; Mikulec, Kathy; Peacock, Lauren; Isaacs, David; Genberg, Carl; Savage, Paul B; Little, David G; Schindeler, Aaron

2018-06-01

Infection of open fractures remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality to patients worldwide. Early administration of prophylactic antibiotics is known to improve outcomes; however, increasing concern regarding antimicrobial resistance makes finding new compounds for use in such cases a pressing area for further research. CSA-90, a synthetic peptidomimetic compound, has previously demonstrated promising antimicrobial action against Staphylococcus aureus in rat open fractures. However, its efficacy against antibiotic-resistant microorganisms, its potential as a therapeutic agent in addition to its prophylactic effects, and its proosteogenic properties all require further investigation. (1) Does prophylactic treatment with CSA-90 reduce infection rates in a rat open fracture model inoculated with S aureus, methicillin-resistant S aureus (MRSA), and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis (MRSE) as measured by survival, radiographic union, and deep tissue swab cultures? (2) Does CSA-90 reduce infection rates when administered later in the management of an open fracture as measured by survival, radiographic union, and deep tissue swab cultures? (3) Does CSA-90 demonstrate a synergistic proosteogenic effect with bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) in a noninfected rat ectopic bone formation assay as assessed by micro-CT bone volume measurement? (4) Can CSA-90 elute and retain its antimicrobial efficacy in vitro when delivered using clinically relevant agents measured using a Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion assay? All in vivo studies were approved by the local animal ethics committee. In the open fracture studies, 12-week-old male Wistar rats underwent open midshaft femoral fractures stabilized with a 1.1-mm Kirschner wire and 10 µg BMP-2 ± 500 µg CSA-90 was applied to the fracture site using a collagen sponge along with 1 x 10 colony-forming units of bacteria (S aureus/MRSA/MRSE; n = 10 per group). In the delayed treatment study, débridement and

Tandem pseudopericyclic reactions: [1,5]-X sigmatropic shift/6pi-electrocyclic ring closure converting N-(2-X-carbonyl)phenyl ketenimines into 2-X-quinolin-4(3H)-ones.

PubMed

Alajarín, Mateo; Ortín, María-Mar; Sanchez-Andrada, Pilar; Vidal, Angel

2006-10-13

N-(2-X-Carbonyl)phenyl ketenimines undergo, under mild thermal conditions, [1,5]-migration of the X group from the carbonyl carbon to the electron-deficient central carbon atom of the ketenimine fragment, followed by a 6pi-electrocyclic ring closure of the resulting ketene to provide 2-X-substituted quinolin-4(3H)-ones in a sequential one-pot manner. The X groups tested are electron-donor groups, such as alkylthio, arylthio, arylseleno, aryloxy, and amino. When involving alkylthio, arylthio, and arylseleno groups, the complete transformation takes place in refluxing toluene, whereas for aryloxy and amino groups the starting ketenimines must be heated at 230 degrees C in a sealed tube in the absence of solvent. The mechanism for the conversion of these ketenimines into quinolin-4(3H)-ones has been studied by ab initio and DFT calculations, using as model compounds N-(2-X-carbonyl)vinyl ketenimines bearing different X groups (X = F, Cl, OH, SH, NH(2), and PH(2)) converting into 4(3H)-pyridones. This computational study afforded two general reaction pathways for the first step of the sequence, the [1,5]-X shift, depending on the nature of X. When X is F, Cl, OH, or SH, the migration occurs in a concerted mode, whereas when X is NH(2) or PH(2), it involves a two-step sequence. The order of migratory aptitudes of the X substituents at the acyl group is predicted to be PH(2) > Cl > SH > NH(2) > F> OH. The second step of the full transformation, the 6pi-electrocyclic ring closure, is calculated to be concerted and with low energy barriers in all the cases. We have included in the calculations an alternative mode of cyclization of the N-(2-X-carbonyl)vinyl ketenimines, the 6pi-electrocyclic ring closure leading to 1,3-oxazines that involves its 1-oxo-5-aza-1,3,5-hexatrienic system. Additionally, the pseudopericyclic topology of the transition states for some of the [1,5]-X migrations (X = F, Cl, OH, SH), for the 6pi-electrocyclization of the ketene intermediates to the 4(3

Rosetting Plasmodium falciparum-infected erythrocytes bind to human brain microvascular endothelial cells in vitro, demonstrating a dual adhesion phenotype mediated by distinct P. falciparum erythrocyte membrane protein 1 domains.

PubMed

Adams, Yvonne; Kuhnrae, Pongsak; Higgins, Matthew K; Ghumra, Ashfaq; Rowe, J Alexandra

2014-03-01

Adhesion interactions between Plasmodium falciparum-infected erythrocytes (IE) and human cells underlie the pathology of severe malaria. IE cytoadhere to microvascular endothelium or form rosettes with uninfected erythrocytes to survive in vivo by sequestering IE in the microvasculature and avoiding splenic clearance mechanisms. Both rosetting and cytoadherence are mediated by the parasite-derived IE surface protein family Plasmodium falciparum erythrocyte membrane protein 1 (PfEMP1). Rosetting and cytoadherence have been widely studied as separate entities; however, the ability of rosetting P. falciparum strains to cytoadhere has received little attention. Here, we show that IE of the IT/R29 strain expressing a rosette-mediating PfEMP1 variant (IT4var09) cytoadhere in vitro to a human brain microvascular endothelial cell line (HBEC-5i). Cytoadherence was inhibited by heparin and by treatment of HBEC-5i with heparinase III, suggesting that the endothelial receptors for IE binding are heparan sulfate proteoglycans. Antibodies to the N-terminal regions of the IT4var09 PfEMP1 variant (NTS-DBL1α and DBL2γ domains) specifically inhibited and reversed cytoadherence down to low concentrations (<10 μg/ml of total IgG). Surface plasmon resonance experiments showed that the NTS-DBLα and DBL2γ domains bind strongly to heparin, with half-maximal binding at a concentration of ∼0.5 μM in both cases. Therefore, cytoadherence of IT/R29 IE is distinct from rosetting, which is primarily mediated by NTS-DBL1α interactions with complement receptor 1. These data show that IT4var09-expressing parasites are capable of dual interactions with both endothelial cells and uninfected erythrocytes via distinct receptor-ligand interactions.

Phylogenetics and evolution of Su(var)3-9 SET genes in land plants: rapid diversification in structure and function.

PubMed

Zhu, Xinyu; Ma, Hong; Chen, Zhiduan

2011-03-09

Plants contain numerous Su(var)3-9 homologues (SUVH) and related (SUVR) genes, some of which await functional characterization. Although there have been studies on the evolution of plant Su(var)3-9 SET genes, a systematic evolutionary study including major land plant groups has not been reported. Large-scale phylogenetic and evolutionary analyses can help to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms and contribute to improve genome annotation. Putative orthologs of plant Su(var)3-9 SET protein sequences were retrieved from major representatives of land plants. A novel clustering that included most members analyzed, henceforth referred to as core Su(var)3-9 homologues and related (cSUVHR) gene clade, was identified as well as all orthologous groups previously identified. Our analysis showed that plant Su(var)3-9 SET proteins possessed a variety of domain organizations, and can be classified into five types and ten subtypes. Plant Su(var)3-9 SET genes also exhibit a wide range of gene structures among different paralogs within a family, even in the regions encoding conserved PreSET and SET domains. We also found that the majority of SUVH members were intronless and formed three subclades within the SUVH clade. A detailed phylogenetic analysis of the plant Su(var)3-9 SET genes was performed. A novel deep phylogenetic relationship including most plant Su(var)3-9 SET genes was identified. Additional domains such as SAR, ZnF_C2H2 and WIYLD were early integrated into primordial PreSET/SET/PostSET domain organization. At least three classes of gene structures had been formed before the divergence of Physcomitrella patens (moss) from other land plants. One or multiple retroposition events might have occurred among SUVH genes with the donor genes leading to the V-2 orthologous group. The structural differences among evolutionary groups of plant Su(var)3-9 SET genes with different functions were described, contributing to the design of further experimental studies.

JIL-1 and Su(var)3-7 Interact Genetically and Counteract Each Other's Effect on Position-Effect Variegation in Drosophila

PubMed Central

Deng, Huai; Cai, Weili; Wang, Chao; Lerach, Stephanie; Delattre, Marion; Girton, Jack; Johansen, Jørgen; Johansen, Kristen M.

2010-01-01

The essential JIL-1 histone H3S10 kinase is a key regulator of chromatin structure that functions to maintain euchromatic domains while counteracting heterochromatization and gene silencing. In the absence of the JIL-1 kinase, two of the major heterochromatin markers H3K9me2 and HP1a spread in tandem to ectopic locations on the chromosome arms. Here we address the role of the third major heterochromatin component, the zinc-finger protein Su(var)3-7. We show that the lethality but not the chromosome morphology defects associated with the null JIL-1 phenotype to a large degree can be rescued by reducing the dose of the Su(var)3-7 gene and that Su(var)3-7 and JIL-1 loss-of-function mutations have an antagonistic and counterbalancing effect on position-effect variegation (PEV). Furthermore, we show that in the absence of JIL-1 kinase activity, Su(var)3-7 gets redistributed and upregulated on the chromosome arms. Reducing the dose of the Su(var)3-7 gene dramatically decreases this redistribution; however, the spreading of H3K9me2 to the chromosome arms was unaffected, strongly indicating that ectopic Su(var)3-9 activity is not a direct cause of lethality. These observations suggest a model where Su(var)3-7 functions as an effector downstream of Su(var)3-9 and H3K9 dimethylation in heterochromatic spreading and gene silencing that is normally counteracted by JIL-1 kinase activity. PMID:20457875

Ab initio chemical kinetics for SiH3 reactions with Si(x)H2x+2 (x = 1-4).

PubMed

Raghunath, P; Lin, M C

2010-12-30

Gas-phase kinetics and mechanisms of SiH(3) reactions with SiH(4), Si(2)H(6), Si(3)H(8), and Si(4)H(10), processes of relevance to a-Si thin-film deposition, have been investigated by ab initio molecular orbital and transition-state theory (TST) calculations. Geometric parameters of all the species involved in the title reactions were optimized by density functional theory at the B3LYP and BH&HLYP levels with the 6-311++G(3df,2p) basis set. The potential energy surface of each reaction was refined at the CCSD(T)/6-311++G(3df,2p) level of theory. The results show that the most favorable low energy pathways in the SiH(3) reactions with these silanes occur by H abstraction, leading to the formation of SiH(4) + Si(x)H(2x+1) (silanyl) radicals. For both Si(3)H(8) and n-Si(4)H(10) reactions, the lowest energy barrier channels take place by secondary Si-H abstraction, yielding SiH(4) + s-Si(3)H(7) and SiH(4) + s-Si(4)H(9), respectively. In the i-Si(4)H(10) reaction, tertiary Si-H abstraction has the lowest barrier producing SiH(4) + t-Si(4)H(9). In addition, direct SiH(3)-for-X substitution reactions forming Si(2)H(6) + X (X = H or silanyls) can also occur, but with significantly higher reaction barriers. A comparison of the SiH(3) reactions with the analogous CH(3) reactions with alkanes has been made. The rate constants for low-energy product channels have been calculated for the temperature range 300-2500 K by TST with Eckart tunneling corrections. These results, together with predicted heats of formation of various silanyl radicals and Si(4)H(10) isomers, have been tabulated for modeling of a-Si:H film growth by chemical vapor deposition.

Crystal structures of the new ternary stannides La3Mg4-xSn2+x and LaMg3-xSn2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Solokha, P.; De Negri, S.; Minetti, R.; Proserpio, D. M.; Saccone, A.

2016-01-01

Synthesis and structural characterization of the two new lanthanum-magnesium-stannides La3Mg4-xSn2+x (0.12≤x≤0.40) and LaMg3-xSn2 (0.33≤x≤0.78) are reported. The crystal structures of these intermetallics were determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis and confirmed by Rietveld refinement of powder X-ray diffraction patterns of the corresponding samples. The La3Mg4-xSn2+x phase crystallizes in the hexagonal Zr3Cu4Si2 structure type (P6bar2m, hP9, Z=3, x=0.12(1), a=7.7974(7), c=4.8384(4) Å), which represents an ordered derivative of the hP9-ZrNiAl prototype, ubiquitous among equiatomic intermetallics. The LaMg3-xSn2 phase is the second representative of the trigonal LaMg3-xGe2 type, which is a superstructure of the LaLi3Sb2 structure type (P3bar1c, hP34-0.12, Z=6, x=0.35(1), a=8.3222(9), c=14.9546(16) Å). The scheme describing the symmetry reduction/coloring with respect to the parent type is reported here with the purpose to discuss the LaMg3-xSn2 off-stoichiometry from the geometrical point of view. Structural relationships between the La-Mg-Sn ternary phases, including the already known equiatomic LaMgSn compound (oP12-TiNiSi), are presented in the framework of the AlB2-related compounds family and discussed with the aid of group-subgroup relations in the Bärnighausen formalism.

Transcriptome sequence analysis of an ornamental plant, Ananas comosus var. bracteatus, revealed the potential unigenes involved in terpenoid and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis.

PubMed

Ma, Jun; Kanakala, S; He, Yehua; Zhang, Junli; Zhong, Xiaolan

2015-01-01

Ananas comosus var. bracteatus (Red Pineapple) is an important ornamental plant for its colorful leaves and decorative red fruits. Because of its complex genome, it is difficult to understand the molecular mechanisms involved in the growth and development. Thus high-throughput transcriptome sequencing of Ananas comosus var. bracteatus is necessary to generate large quantities of transcript sequences for the purpose of gene discovery and functional genomic studies. The Ananas comosus var. bracteatus transcriptome was sequenced by the Illumina paired-end sequencing technology. We obtained a total of 23.5 million high quality sequencing reads, 1,555,808 contigs and 41,052 unigenes. In total 41,052 unigenes of Ananas comosus var. bracteatus, 23,275 unigenes were annotated in the NCBI non-redundant protein database and 23,134 unigenes were annotated in the Swiss-Port database. Out of these, 17,748 and 8,505 unigenes were assigned to gene ontology categories and clusters of orthologous groups, respectively. Functional annotation against Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes Pathway database identified 5,825 unigenes which were mapped to 117 pathways. The assembly predicted many unigenes that were previously unknown. The annotated unigenes were compared against pineapple, rice, maize, Arabidopsis, and sorghum. Unigenes that did not match any of those five sequence datasets are considered to be Ananas comosus var. bracteatus unique. We predicted unigenes encoding enzymes involved in terpenoid and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis. The sequence data provide the most comprehensive transcriptomic resource currently available for Ananas comosus var. bracteatus. To our knowledge; this is the first report on the de novo transcriptome sequencing of the Ananas comosus var. bracteatus. Unigenes obtained in this study, may help improve future gene expression, genetic and genomics studies in Ananas comosus var. bracteatus.

Transcriptome Sequence Analysis of an Ornamental Plant, Ananas comosus var. bracteatus, Revealed the Potential Unigenes Involved in Terpenoid and Phenylpropanoid Biosynthesis

PubMed Central

Ma, Jun; Kanakala, S.; He, Yehua; Zhang, Junli; Zhong, Xiaolan

2015-01-01

Background Ananas comosus var. bracteatus (Red Pineapple) is an important ornamental plant for its colorful leaves and decorative red fruits. Because of its complex genome, it is difficult to understand the molecular mechanisms involved in the growth and development. Thus high-throughput transcriptome sequencing of Ananas comosus var. bracteatus is necessary to generate large quantities of transcript sequences for the purpose of gene discovery and functional genomic studies. Results The Ananas comosus var. bracteatus transcriptome was sequenced by the Illumina paired-end sequencing technology. We obtained a total of 23.5 million high quality sequencing reads, 1,555,808 contigs and 41,052 unigenes. In total 41,052 unigenes of Ananas comosus var. bracteatus, 23,275 unigenes were annotated in the NCBI non-redundant protein database and 23,134 unigenes were annotated in the Swiss-Port database. Out of these, 17,748 and 8,505 unigenes were assigned to gene ontology categories and clusters of orthologous groups, respectively. Functional annotation against Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes Pathway database identified 5,825 unigenes which were mapped to 117 pathways. The assembly predicted many unigenes that were previously unknown. The annotated unigenes were compared against pineapple, rice, maize, Arabidopsis, and sorghum. Unigenes that did not match any of those five sequence datasets are considered to be Ananas comosus var. bracteatus unique. We predicted unigenes encoding enzymes involved in terpenoid and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis. Conclusion The sequence data provide the most comprehensive transcriptomic resource currently available for Ananas comosus var. bracteatus. To our knowledge; this is the first report on the de novo transcriptome sequencing of the Ananas comosus var. bracteatus. Unigenes obtained in this study, may help improve future gene expression, genetic and genomics studies in Ananas comosus var. bracteatus. PMID:25769053

Endogenous opioid mechanisms partially mediate P2X3/P2X2/3-related antinociception in rat models of inflammatory and chemogenic pain but not neuropathic pain.

PubMed

McGaraughty, Steve; Honore, Prisca; Wismer, Carol T; Mikusa, Joseph; Zhu, Chang Z; McDonald, Heath A; Bianchi, Bruce; Faltynek, Connie R; Jarvis, Michael F

2005-09-01

P2X3/P2X2/3 receptors have emerged as important components of nociception. However, there is limited information regarding the neurochemical systems that are affected by antagonism of the P2X3/P2X2/3 receptor and that ultimately contribute to the ensuing antinociception. In order to determine if the endogenous opioid system is involved in this antinociception, naloxone was administered just prior to the injection of a selective P2X3/P2X2/3 receptor antagonist, A-317491, in rat models of neuropathic, chemogenic, and inflammatory pain. Naloxone (1-10 mg kg(-1), i.p.), dose-dependently reduced the antinociceptive effects of A-317491 (1-300 micromol kg(-1), s.c.) in the CFA model of thermal hyperalgesia and the formalin model of chemogenic pain (2nd phase), but not in the L5-L6 spinal nerve ligation model of neuropathic allodynia. In comparison experiments, the same doses of naloxone blocked or attenuated the actions of morphine (2 or 8 mg kg(-1), s.c.) in each of these behavioral models. Injection of a peripheral opioid antagonist, naloxone methiodide (10 mg kg(-1), i.p.), did not affect A-317491-induced antinociception in the CFA and formalin assays, suggesting that the opioid component of this antinociception occurred within the CNS. Furthermore, this utilization of the central opioid system could be initiated by antagonism of spinal P2X3/P2X2/3 receptors since the antinociceptive actions of intrathecally delivered A-317491 (30 nmol) in the formalin model were reduced by both intrathecally (10-50 nmol) and systemically (10 mg kg(-1), i.p.) administered naloxone. This utilization of the opioid system was not specific to A-317491 since suramin-, a nonselective P2X receptor antagonist, induced antinociception was also attenuated by naloxone. In in vitro studies, A-317491 (3-100 microM) did not produce any agonist response at delta opioid receptors expressed in NG108-15 cells. A-317491 had been previously shown to be inactive at the kappa and mu opioid receptors

Synthesis and crystal structure of the solid solution Co3(SeO3)3-x(PO3OH)x(H2O) involving crystallographic split positions of Se4+ and P5+.

PubMed

Zimmermann, Iwan; Johnsson, Mats

2013-10-21

Three new cobalt selenite hydroxo-phosphates laying in the solid solution Co3(SeO3)3-x(PO3OH)x(H2O), with x = 0.8, x = 1.0, and x = 1.2 are reported. Single crystals were obtained by hydrothermal synthesis and the crystal structure was determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction. The structure can be described as a 3D framework having selenite and hydroxo-phosphate groups protruding into channels in the crystal structure. Se(4+) and P(5+) share a split position in the structure so that either SeO3 groups having a stereochemically active lone pair or tetrahedrally coordinated PO3OH groups are present. The OH-group is thus only present when the split position is occupied by P(5+). The crystal water is coordinated to a cobalt atom and TG and IR measurements show that the water and hydroxyl groups leave the structure at unusually high temperatures (>450 °C). Magnetic susceptibility measurements show antiferromagnetic coupling below 16 K and a magnetic moment of 4.02(3) μB per Co atom was observed.

Ketoconazole and the modulation of multidrug resistance-mediated transport in Caco-2 and MDCKII-MDR1 drug transport models.

PubMed

Fan, Y; Rodriguez-Proteau, R

2008-02-01

The hypothesis tested was that ketoconazole can modulate P-glycoprotein, thereby altering cellular uptake and apparent permeability (P(app)) of multidrug-resistant substrates, such as cyclosporin A (CSA) and digoxin, across Caco-2, MDCKII-MDR1, and MDCKII wild-type cell transport models. (3)H-CSA/(3)H-digoxin transport experiments were performed with and without co-exposure to ketoconazole, and (3)H-ketoconzole transport experiments were performed with and without co-exposure to dietary flavonoids, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, and xanthohumol. Ketoconazole (3 microM) reduced the P(app) efflux of CSA and digoxin from 5.07 x 10(-6) to 2.91 x 10(-6) cm s(-1) and from 2.60 x 10(-6) to 1.41 x 10(-6) cm s(-1), respectively, in Caco-2 cells. In the MDCKII-MDR1 cells, ketoconazole reduced the P(app) efflux of CSA and increased the P(app) absorption of digoxin. Cellular uptake of ketoconazole in the Caco-2 cells was significantly inhibited by CSA and digoxin, whereas epigallocatechin-3-gallate and xanthohumol exhibited biphasic responses. In conclusion, ketoconazole modulates the P(app) of P-glycoprotein substrates by interacting with MDR1 protein. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate and xanthohumol modulate the transport and uptake of ketoconazole.

A Rutile Chevron Modulation in Delafossite-Like Ga 3–x In 3 Ti x O 9+x/2

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Rickert, Karl; Boullay, Philippe; Malo, Sylvie

2016-05-02

The structure solution of the modulated, delafossite-related, orthorhombic Ga 3–xIn 3Ti xO 9+x/2 for x = 1.5 is reported here in conjunction with a model describing the modulation as a function of x for the entire system. Previously reported structures in the related A 3–xIn 3Ti xO 9+x/2 (A = Al, Cr, or Fe) systems use X-ray diffraction to determine that the anion lattice is the source of modulation. Neutron diffraction, with its enhanced sensitivity to light atoms, offers a route to solving the modulation and is used here, in combination with precession electron diffraction tomography (PEDT), to solve themore » structure of Ga 1.5In 3Ti 1.5O 9.75. We construct a model that describes the anion modulation through the formation of rutile chevrons as a function of x. This model accommodates the orthorhombic phase (1.5 ≤ x ≤ 2.1) in the Ga 3-xIn 3Ti xO 9+x/2 system, which transitions to a biphasic mixture (2.2 ≤ x ≤ 2.3) with a monoclinic, delafossite-related phase (2.4 ≤ x ≤ 2.5). The optical band gaps of this system are determined, and are stable at ~3.4 eV before a ~0.4 eV decrease between x = 1.9 and 2.0. After this decrease, stability resumes at ~3.0 eV. Resistance to oxidation and reduction is also presented.« less

dbl-1/TGF-β and daf-12/NHR Signaling Mediate Cell-Nonautonomous Effects of daf-16/FOXO on Starvation-Induced Developmental Arrest.

PubMed

Kaplan, Rebecca E W; Chen, Yutao; Moore, Brad T; Jordan, James M; Maxwell, Colin S; Schindler, Adam J; Baugh, L Ryan

2015-12-01

Nutrient availability has profound influence on development. In the nematode C. elegans, nutrient availability governs post-embryonic development. L1-stage larvae remain in a state of developmental arrest after hatching until they feed. This "L1 arrest" (or "L1 diapause") is associated with increased stress resistance, supporting starvation survival. Loss of the transcription factor daf-16/FOXO, an effector of insulin/IGF signaling, results in arrest-defective and starvation-sensitive phenotypes. We show that daf-16/FOXO regulates L1 arrest cell-nonautonomously, suggesting that insulin/IGF signaling regulates at least one additional signaling pathway. We used mRNA-seq to identify candidate signaling molecules affected by daf-16/FOXO during L1 arrest. dbl-1/TGF-β, a ligand for the Sma/Mab pathway, daf-12/NHR and daf-36/oxygenase, an upstream component of the daf-12 steroid hormone signaling pathway, were up-regulated during L1 arrest in a daf-16/FOXO mutant. Using genetic epistasis analysis, we show that dbl-1/TGF-β and daf-12/NHR steroid hormone signaling pathways are required for the daf-16/FOXO arrest-defective phenotype, suggesting that daf-16/FOXO represses dbl-1/TGF-β, daf-12/NHR and daf-36/oxygenase. The dbl-1/TGF-β and daf-12/NHR pathways have not previously been shown to affect L1 development, but we found that disruption of these pathways delayed L1 development in fed larvae, consistent with these pathways promoting development in starved daf-16/FOXO mutants. Though the dbl-1/TGF-β and daf-12/NHR pathways are epistatic to daf-16/FOXO for the arrest-defective phenotype, disruption of these pathways does not suppress starvation sensitivity of daf-16/FOXO mutants. This observation uncouples starvation survival from developmental arrest, indicating that DAF-16/FOXO targets distinct effectors for each phenotype and revealing that inappropriate development during starvation does not cause the early demise of daf-16/FOXO mutants. Overall, this study shows

dbl-1/TGF-β and daf-12/NHR Signaling Mediate Cell-Nonautonomous Effects of daf-16/FOXO on Starvation-Induced Developmental Arrest

PubMed Central

Moore, Brad T.; Jordan, James M.; Maxwell, Colin S.; Schindler, Adam J.; Baugh, L. Ryan

2015-01-01

Nutrient availability has profound influence on development. In the nematode C. elegans, nutrient availability governs post-embryonic development. L1-stage larvae remain in a state of developmental arrest after hatching until they feed. This “L1 arrest” (or "L1 diapause") is associated with increased stress resistance, supporting starvation survival. Loss of the transcription factor daf-16/FOXO, an effector of insulin/IGF signaling, results in arrest-defective and starvation-sensitive phenotypes. We show that daf-16/FOXO regulates L1 arrest cell-nonautonomously, suggesting that insulin/IGF signaling regulates at least one additional signaling pathway. We used mRNA-seq to identify candidate signaling molecules affected by daf-16/FOXO during L1 arrest. dbl-1/TGF-β, a ligand for the Sma/Mab pathway, daf-12/NHR and daf-36/oxygenase, an upstream component of the daf-12 steroid hormone signaling pathway, were up-regulated during L1 arrest in a daf-16/FOXO mutant. Using genetic epistasis analysis, we show that dbl-1/TGF-β and daf-12/NHR steroid hormone signaling pathways are required for the daf-16/FOXO arrest-defective phenotype, suggesting that daf-16/FOXO represses dbl-1/TGF-β, daf-12/NHR and daf-36/oxygenase. The dbl-1/TGF-β and daf-12/NHR pathways have not previously been shown to affect L1 development, but we found that disruption of these pathways delayed L1 development in fed larvae, consistent with these pathways promoting development in starved daf-16/FOXO mutants. Though the dbl-1/TGF-β and daf-12/NHR pathways are epistatic to daf-16/FOXO for the arrest-defective phenotype, disruption of these pathways does not suppress starvation sensitivity of daf-16/FOXO mutants. This observation uncouples starvation survival from developmental arrest, indicating that DAF-16/FOXO targets distinct effectors for each phenotype and revealing that inappropriate development during starvation does not cause the early demise of daf-16/FOXO mutants. Overall, this study

Disk Disruptions and X-ray Intensity Excursions in Cyg X-2, LMC X-3 and Cyg X-3

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boyd, P. T.; Smale, A. P.

2001-05-01

The RXTE All Sky Monitor soft X-ray light curves of many X-ray binaries show long-term intensity variations (a.k.a "superorbital periodicities") that have been ascribed to precession of a warped, tilted accretion disk around the X-ray source. We have found that the excursion times between X-ray minima in Cyg X-2 can be characterized as a series of integer multiples of the 9.8 binary orbital period, (as opposed to the previously reported stable 77.7 day single periodicity, or a single modulation whose period changes slowly with time). While the data set is too short for a proper statistical analysis, it is clear that the length of any given intensity excursion cannot be used to predict the next (integer) excursion length in the series. In the black hole candidate system LMC X-3, the excursion times are shown to be related to each other by rational fractions. We find that the long term light curve of the unusual galactic X-ray jet source Cyg X-3 can also be described as a series of intensity excursions related to each other by integer multiples of a fundamental underlying clock. In the latter cases, the clock is apparently not related to the known binary periods. A unified physical model, involving both an inclined accretion disk and a fixed-probability disk disruption mechanism is presented, and compared with three-body scattering results. Each time the disk passes through the orbital plane it experiences a fixed probability P that it will disrupt. This model has testable predictions---the distribution of integers should resemble that of an atomic process with a characteristic half life. Further analysis can support or refute the model, and shed light on what system parameters effectively set the value of P.

Targeted Disruption of a Ring-infected Erythrocyte Surface Antigen (RESA)-like Export Protein Gene in Plasmodium falciparum Confers Stable Chondroitin 4-Sulfate Cytoadherence Capacity*

PubMed Central

Goel, Suchi; Muthusamy, Arivalagan; Miao, Jun; Cui, Liwang; Salanti, Ali; Winzeler, Elizabeth A.; Gowda, D. Channe

2014-01-01

The Plasmodium falciparum erythrocyte membrane protein 1 (PfEMP1) family proteins mediate the adherence of infected erythrocytes to microvascular endothelia of various organs, including the placenta, thereby contributing to cerebral, placental, and other severe malaria pathogenesis. Several parasite proteins, including KAHRP and PfEMP3, play important roles in the cytoadherence by mediating the clustering of PfEMP1 in rigid knoblike structures on the infected erythrocyte surface. The lack of a subtelomeric region of chromosome 2 that contains kahrp and pfemp3 causes reduced cytoadherence. In this study, microarray transcriptome analysis showed that the absence of a gene cluster, comprising kahrp, pfemp3, and four other genes, results in the loss of parasitized erythrocytes adhering to chondroitin 4-sulfate (C4S). The role of one of these genes, PF3D7_0201600/PFB0080c, which encodes PHISTb (Plasmodium helical interspersed subtelomeric b) domain-containing RESA-like protein 1 expressed on the infected erythrocyte surface, was investigated. Disruption of PFB0080c resulted in increased var2csa transcription and VAR2CSA surface expression, leading to higher C4S-binding capacity of infected erythrocytes. Further, PFB0080c-knock-out parasites stably maintained the C4S adherence through many generations of growth. Although the majority of PFB0080c-knock-out parasites bound to C4S even after culturing for 6 months, a minor population bound to both C4S and CD36. These results strongly suggest that the loss of PFB0080c markedly compromises the var gene switching process, leading to a marked reduction in the switching rate and additional PfEMP1 expression by a minor population of parasites. PFB0080c interacts with VAR2CSA and modulates knob-associated Hsp40 expression. Thus, PFB0080c may regulate VAR2CSA expression through these processes. Overall, we conclude that PFB0080c regulates PfEMP1 expression and the parasite's cytoadherence. PMID:25342752

Magnetic properties of x(Fe2O3).(100-x)[P2O5.Li2O] and x(Fe2O3).(100-x)[P2O5.CaO] glass systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Andronache, Constantin; Racolta, Dania; Ardelean, Gheorghe

2017-12-01

Magnetic properties of x(Fe2O3).(100-x)[P2O5 .Li2O] and x(Fe2O3).(100-x)[P2O5 .CaO] with 0 < x ≤ 50 mol % were investigated using magnetic susceptibility measurements. The both glass systems were prepared in the same condition. The valence states and the distribution of iron ions in the glass matrix depend on the Fe2O3 content. For the P2O5.CaO glass matrix with x≤35mol%, the data revealed iron ions as isolated or participating in dipole-dipole interaction. For x > 35 mol% an antiferromagnetic coupling is observed. For the P2O5.Li2O glass matrix, the iron ions behave magnetically similarly as in other oxide glasses, but concentration of Fe2O3 over which magnetic superexchange interactions occur is lower. The absolute magnitude of θp values increases when content of Fe2O3 are increased. If the content of the magnetic ions is increased in the glass, the exchange integral increased and as a result the magnitude of the θP increases.

Presence of AmpC beta-lactamases, CSA-1, CSA-2, CMA-1, and CMA-2 conferring an unusual resistance phenotype in Cronobacter sakazakii and Cronobacter malonaticus.

PubMed

Müller, Andrea; Hächler, Herbert; Stephan, Roger; Lehner, Angelika

2014-08-01

Here we describe the presence of two very similar but unusual variants of AmpC cephalosporinase in each Cronobacter sakazakii and C. malonaticus isolates conferring resistance exclusively to first generation cephalosporins. During a survey on the antibiotic resistance patterns of C. sakazakii and C. malonaticus strains isolated from a milk powder production facility, originally two different phenotypes regarding the susceptibility/resistance for the two beta-lactam antibiotics ampicillin (amp) and cephalothin (ceph) were observed: (i) isolates being susceptible for both antibiotics (amp(S)/ceph(S)), and (ii) strains exhibiting susceptibility to ampicillin but resistance to cephalothin (amp(S)/ceph(R)). The latter phenotype (amp(S)/ceph(R)) was observed in the majority of the environmental strains from the facility. Analysis of whole genome sequences of C. sakazakii revealed a gene putatively coding for an AmpC beta-lactamase. Consequently, the ampC genes from both species and both phenotypes were subjected to a cloning approach. Surprisingly, when expressed in Escherichia coli, all transformants exhibited the amp(S)/ceph(R) phenotype regardless of (i) the phenotypic backgrounds or (ii) the AmpC amino acid sequences of the original strains from which the clones were derived. The novel AmpC beta-lactamases were designated CSA-1 and CSA-2 (from C. sakazakii) and CMA-1 and CMA-2 (from C. malonaticus). The observed variations in the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) levels for cephalothin (wt compared to transformants) suggest that this feature is a target of a yet unknown regulatory mechanism present in the natural Cronobacter background but absent in the neutral E. coli host.

Photoelectrical properties of sprayed In2-2xAl2xS3- 3yO3y alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bhira, L.; Belgacem, S.; Bernede, J. C.

2002-11-01

In2-2xAl2xS3-3yO3y alloys have been prepared on Pyrextrademark glass substrates by the spray pyrolysis technique. The shape of the photoconductivity spectrums Iph (hnu) and the variations Iph (f ) and Iph (V) allow us to understand the conduction mechanism and the photocarriers' recombination. For low compositions (xless-than-or-equal0.2), Iph)(V parabolic variation shows that this conduction is limited by the space charge zone in accordance with Child's law (Iph[is proportional to]V2) [N. F. Mott and R. W. Gurney, Electronics Processes in Ionic Crystals (Oxford, New York, 1940), p. 463]. The exploitation of such variation shows that the density of the trap centers increases with the composition. For x[greater-than-or-equal, slanted]0.4, the electrical conduction instead follows Ohm's law. In the same way, the analysis of an extension of Devore's model [Phys. Rev. 102, 86 (1956)] as (Iph)hnu2 versus photon energy hnu shows an increase of the band gap energy Eg according to a parabolic profile. On the other hand, for low compositions (x=0,0.05,0.1,0.2), the conductivity study as a function of the temperature presents a deviation to Arrhenius's law in the intermediate temperature domain ranging from 80 to 330 K. Moreover, in this domain, the study of the activation energy Ea)(T according to Werner's model [Solid State Phenom. 37, 214 (1994)] supposing potential fluctuations at the grain boundaries yields the values of the barrier high phib and the standard deviation sigma][phi. From these results, we see that Eg increased versus x and that the electrical properties are essentially preserved for low aluminum concentration films. This may be due to a minor presence of an Al2O3 phase for such deposits.

Discovery of novel solid solution Ca3Si3-x O3+x N4-2x : Eu2+ phosphors: structural evolution and photoluminescence tuning.

PubMed

Wang, Baochen; Liu, Yan-Gai; Huang, Zhaohui; Fang, Minghao; Wu, Xiaowen

2017-12-22

Discovery of novel phosphors is one of the main issues for improving the color rendering index (CRI) and correlated color temperature (CCT) of white light-emitting diodes (w-LEDs). This study mainly presents a systematic research on the synthesis, crystal structure variation and photoluminescence tuning of novel (oxy)nitride solid solution Ca 3 Si 3-x O 3+x N 4-2x : Eu 2+ phosphors. XRD refinements show that lattice distortion occurs when x value diverges the optimum one (x = 1). The lattice distortion causes a widening of emission spectrum and an increase of Stokes shift (ΔSS), which leads to a bigger thermal quenching. With decrease of x value, the emission spectrum shows an obvious red-shift from 505.2 to 540.8 nm, which is attributed to the crystal field splitting. The enhanced crystal field splitting also broadens the excitation spectrum, making it possible to serve as the phosphor for near ultraviolet (n-UV) LEDs. A 3-phosphor-conversion w-LED lamp was fabricated with the as-prepared phosphor, which exhibits high CRI (Ra = 85.29) and suitable CCT (4903.35 K). All these results indicate that the Ca 3 Si 3-x O 3+x N 4-2x : Eu 2+ phosphor can serve as the green phosphor for n-UV w-LEDs, with a tunable spectrum by controlling the crystal structure and morphology.

LncRNA uc.48+ is involved in diabetic neuropathic pain mediated by the P2X3 receptor in the dorsal root ganglia.

PubMed

Wang, Shouyu; Xu, Hong; Zou, Lifang; Xie, Jinyang; Wu, Hong; Wu, Bing; Yi, Zhihua; Lv, Qiulan; Zhang, Xi; Ying, Mofeng; Liu, Shuangmei; Li, Guilin; Gao, Yun; Xu, Changshui; Zhang, Chunping; Xue, Yun; Liang, Shangdong

2016-03-01

Some long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) participate in physiological processes that maintain cellular and tissue homeostasis, and thus, the dysregulated expression of lncRNAs is involved in the onset and progression of many pathological conditions. Research has indicated that the genetic knockout of some lncRNAs in mice resulted in peri- or postnatal lethality or developmental defects. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a major cause of peripheral neuropathy. Our studies showed that the expression levels of lncRNA uc.48+ in the diabetic rat dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and the DM patients' serum samples were increased. It suggested that lncRNA uc.48+ was involved in the pathophysiological process of DM. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of lncRNA uc.48+ small interfering RNA (siRNA) on diabetic neuropathic pain (DNP) mediated by the P2X3 receptor in the DRG. The values of the mechanical withdrawal threshold (MWT) and thermal withdrawal latency (TWL) were measured by the von Frey test and Hargreaves' test, respectively. The levels of P2X3 protein and messenger RNA (mRNA) in the DRG were detected by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), immunohistochemistry, and western blotting. The experiments showed that the MWT and TWL values in DM rats were lower than those in the control rats. The MWT and TWL values in DM rats treated with lncRNA uc.48+ siRNA were increased compared to those in DM rats, but there was no significant difference between the DM rat group and the DM + scramble siRNA group. The levels of P2X3 protein and mRNA in the DM DRG were higher than those in the control, while the levels of P2X3 protein and mRNA in the DG of DM rats treated with uc.48+ siRNA were significantly decreased compared to those in DM rats. The expression levels of TNF-α in the DRG of DM rats treated with uc.48+ siRNA were significantly decreased compared to those in the DM group. The phosphorylation and activation of ERK1/2 in the DM DRG were decreased by

Endurance and failure characteristics of main-shaft jet engine bearings at 3x10 to the 6th power DN

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bamberger, E. N.; Zaretsky, E. V.; Signer, H.

1976-01-01

Groups of thirty 120-mm bore angular contact ball bearings were endurance tested at a speed of 12,000 and 25,000 rpm and a thrust load of 66 721 N. The bearings were manufactured from a single heat of VIM-VAR AISI M-50 steel. At 1.44X1 million and 3.0x1 million DN, 84 483 and 74 800 bearing test hours were accumulated, respectively. Test results were compared with similar bearings made from CVM AISI M-50 steel run under the same conditions. Bearing lives at speeds of 3x1 million DN with the VIM-VAR AISI M-50 steel were nearly equivalent to those obtained at lower speeds. A combined processing and material life factor of 44 was found for VIM-VAR AISI M-50 steel. Continuous running after a spall has occurred at 3.0x1 million DN can result in a destructive fracture of the bearing inner race.

Photophysical properties of the series fac- and mer-(1-phenylisoquinolinato-N∧C2')(x)(2-phenylpyridinato-N∧C2')(3-x)iridium(III) (x = 1-3).

PubMed

Deaton, Joseph C; Young, Ralph H; Lenhard, Jerome R; Rajeswaran, Manju; Huo, Shouquan

2010-10-18

The photophysical properties of tris-cyclometalated iridium(III) complexes have been probed by chemical and geometric variation through the series fac- and mer-Ir(piq)(x)(ppy)(3-x) (x = 1-3; piq = 1-phenylisoquinolinato-N(∧)C(2'), ppy = 2-phenylpyridinato-N(∧)C(2')). The phosphorescent decays were recorded in solution at 295 K and in polymer films from 2 to 295 K. In the heteroleptic complexes, emission occurs based solely on the piq ligand(s), at least by the nanosecond time scale, as its excited states are the lowest energy. Because fac-Ir(piq)(3) and fac-Ir(ppy)(3) possess practically the same oxidation potential, comparison of photophysical properties through the series fac-Ir(piq)(x)(ppy)(3-x) (x = 1-3) revealed the effects of having one, two, or three emissive piq ligands with no confounding effects from differences in electron withdrawing or donating properties between the spectator ppy ligands and the piq ligands. Effects of placement of piq ligands in different coordination geometries were elucidated by comparisons to the mer series.

Growing Opportunities: CSA Members, CSA Farmers, and Informal Learning in the USA

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Everson, Connie

2015-01-01

Community-supported agriculture (CSA) began as a loosely formalised, vaguely socialistic agreement between consumers and farmers through which the consumers were provided with fresh produce from the farms. When the institution became more structured, education gained a near-equal footing with the nutritional offerings. My research indicated that…

Transcriptome analysis and identification of genes associated with omega-3 fatty acid biosynthesis in Perilla frutescens (L.) var. frutescens

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Background: Perilla (Perilla frutescens (L.) var frutescens) produces high levels of a-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid important to health and development. To uncover key genes involved in fatty acid (FA) and triacylglycerol (TAG) synthesis in perilla, we conducted deep sequencing of cD...

Arsenic speciation in tissues of the hyperaccumulator P. calomelanos var. austroamericana using X-ray absorption spectroscopy.

PubMed

Kachenko, Anthony G; Gräfe, Markus; Singh, Balwant; Heald, Steve M

2010-06-15

The fate and chemical speciation of arsenic (As) during uptake, translocation, and storage by the As hyperaccumulating fern Pityrogramma calomelanos var. austroamericana (Pteridaceae) were examined using inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) and synchrotron-based micro-X-ray absorption near edge structure (micro-XANES) and micro-X-ray fluorescence (micro-XRF) spectroscopies. Chemical analysis revealed total As concentration was ca. 6.5 times greater in young fronds (5845 mg kg(-1) dry weight (DW)) than in old fronds (903 mg kg(-1) DW). In pinnae, As concentration decreased from the base (6822 mg kg(-1) DW) to the apex (4301 mg kg(-1) DW) of the fronds. The results from micro-XANES and micro-XRF of living tissues suggested that more than 60% of arsenate (As(V)) absorbed was reduced to arsenite (As(III)) in roots, prior to transport through vascular tissues as As(V) and As(III). In pinnules, As(III) was the predominant redox species (72-90%), presumably as solvated, oxygen coordinated compounds. The presence of putative As(III)-sulphide (S(2-)) coordination throughout the fern tissues (4-25%) suggests that S(2-) functional groups may contribute in the biochemical reduction of As(V) to As(III) during uptake and transport at a whole-plant level. Organic arsenicals and thiol-rich compounds were not detected in the species and are unlikely to play a role in As hyperaccumulation in this fern. The study provides important insights into homeostatic regulation of As following As uptake in P. calomelanos var. austroamericana.

Structure cristalline du composé Hg3-xSbx(S+Se)2+xI2-x (x ≃ 0.1)

PubMed Central

Kars, Mohammed; Herrero, Adrian Gómez; Roisnel, Thierry; Rebbah, Allaoua; Otero-Diáz, L. Carlos

2016-01-01

Single crystals of the mercury chalcohalide Hg3-xSbx(S+Se)2+xI2-x (x ≃ 0.1) (mercury anti­mony sulfide selenide iodide), were grown by a chemical transport reaction. The structure contains three independent A (Hg/Sb) atoms; each atom is strongly covalently bonded with two X (Se/S) atoms to form approximately linear X–A–X units. The X–A–X units link to form A 4 X 4 rings, which are combined into infinite crankshaft-type bands running along the [100] direction. Four equatorial E (I/X = Se,S) atoms at relatively long distances complete the distorted octa­hedral coordination of A (Hg/Sb). The crystal under investigation was twinned by non-merohedry with a refined twin domain fraction of 0.814 (6):0.186 (6). The structure is isotypic with Hg3Se2I2 [Beck & Hedderich (2000 ▸). J. Solid State Chem. 151, 73–76], but the current determination reveals a coupled substitution, with partial replacement of Hg+2 by Sb+3, balanced by the equivalent substitution of I−1 by S−2 and Se−2. Bond-valence calculations are consistent with this relative substitution model. PMID:27006793

In vitro evaluation of the potential for resistance development to ceragenin CSA-13

PubMed Central

Pollard, Jake E.; Snarr, Jason; Chaudhary, Vinod; Jennings, Jacob D.; Shaw, Hannah; Christiansen, Bobbie; Wright, Jonathan; Jia, Wenyi; Bishop, Russell E.; Savage, Paul B.

2012-01-01

Objectives Though most bacteria remain susceptible to endogenous antimicrobial peptides, specific resistance mechanisms are known. As mimics of antimicrobial peptides, ceragenins were expected to retain antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and -negative bacteria, even after prolonged exposure. Serial passaging of bacteria to a lead ceragenin, CSA-13, was performed with representative pathogenic bacteria. Ciprofloxacin, vancomycin and colistin were used as comparators. The mechanisms of resistance in Gram-negative bacteria were elucidated. Methods Susceptible strains of Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii were serially exposed to CSA-13 and comparators for 30 passages. MIC values were monitored. Alterations in the Gram-negative bacterial membrane composition were characterized via mass spectrometry and the susceptibility of antimicrobial-peptide-resistant mutants to CSA-13 was evaluated. Results S. aureus became highly resistant to ciprofloxacin after <20 passages. After 30 passages, the MIC values of vancomycin and CSA-13 for S. aureus increased 9- and 3-fold, respectively. The Gram-negative organisms became highly resistant to ciprofloxacin after <20 passages. MIC values of colistin for P. aeruginosa and A. baumannii increased to ≥100 mg/L after 20 passages. MIC values of CSA-13 increased to ∼20–30 mg/L and plateaued over the course of the experiment. Bacteria resistant to CSA-13 displayed lipid A modifications that are found in organisms resistant to antimicrobial peptides. Conclusions CSA-13 retained potent antibacterial activity against S. aureus over the course of 30 serial passages. Resistance generated in Gram-negative bacteria correlates with modifications to the outer membranes of these organisms and was not stable outside of the presence of the antimicrobial. PMID:22899801

Piezoelectric properties of nonstoichiometric Sr1-xBi2+2x/3Ta2O9 ceramics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jain, Rajni; Chauhan, Arun Kumar Singh; Gupta, Vinay; Sreenivas, K.

2005-06-01

The effect of poling on the structural, dielectric, and piezoelectric properties has been investigated for sol-gel-derived strontium bismuth tantalate (SBT) [Sr1-xBi2+2x/3Ta2O9] ceramics with x =0.0,0.15,0.30,0.45. The dielectric and ferroelectric properties are found to improve with increase in x up to 0.3. Beyond x >0.3 the properties are found to degrade due to the limited solid solubility and the presence of a mixed phase of bismuth tantalate (BiTaO4) is detected with x =0.45. Poling treatment reduces the dielectric dispersion and dielectric loss in the frequency range (0.1-100kHz). The resonance and antiresonance frequencies increase with increase in x (x=0-0.30), and the corresponding minimum impedance decreases. The measured coupling coefficients (kp) are small (0.0967-0.1) for x =0-0.30, and the electromechanical quality factor (Qm=915) is a maximum for the Sr0.7Bi2.2Ta2O9 composition (x=0.30). The estimated piezoelectric charge coefficient (d31) and piezoelectric voltage coefficient (g31) are 5.2pC/N and 5.8×10-3Vm/N, respectively. The positive values of d31 and g31 and the low dielectric permittivity of SBT yield a high value for the hydrostatic coefficients, despite the low charge coefficient of d33=24pC/N. The maximum values of charge coefficient (dh=34pC/N) and voltage coefficient (gh=39×10-3Vm/N) are obtained for Sr0.7Bi2.2Ta2O9 composition, and the estimated hydrostatic figure of merit (dhgh×10-15=1215m2/N) is high.

Involvement of endoplasmic reticulum in hepatitis B virus replication.

PubMed

Xia, Weiliang; Shen, Yan; Xie, Haiyang; Zheng, Shusen

2006-11-01

The mitochondrial calcium and downstream proline-rich tyrosine kinase-2 (PyK2) signaling pathway are critical to hepatitis B virus (HBV) replication, and the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) plays an important role in intracellular calcium regulation. To investigate the role of ER in HBV replication, the HBV genome transfected HepG2.2.15 cells were treated by cyclosporine A (CsA), cyclopiazonic acid (CPA), ryanodine and U73122, which are all specific blockers of calcium channels located in either ER or mitochondria. The HBV replication level was evaluated by two methods: slot blot hybridization analysis of intracellular HBV DNA and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis of secreted HBV DNA in supernatant; the activation of PyK2 kinase was detected by Western blot analysis. Results indicated that the HBV replication was inhibited when mitochondrial permeability transition pore, ER Ca2+ -ATPase and ER inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3R) were blocked by CsA, CPA and U73122, respectively; but not inhibited when ER ryanodine receptor was blocked by ryanodine. The PyK2 phosphorylation level declined after treatment of 2 microg/ml CsA, 5 microM CPA and 25 microM U73122, but not changed apparently after 50 microM ryanodine treatment. Compared with monotreatment, a more powerful inhibitory effect was achieved when the CsA, CPA and U73122 were combined used in twosome or triple manner, while the HBV replication level did not change apparently when ryanodine combined with CsA, CPA or U73122. In conclusion, besides the mitochondria, the ER also participates in the HBV replication through calcium-PyK2 signaling pathway; the calcium channels of ER Ca2+ -ATPase and ER IP3R are responsible for this role; during this complicated process, an interaction between ER and mitochondria maybe involved.

Identification and Characterization of the Spodoptera Su(var) 3-9 Histone H3K9 trimethyltransferase and Its Effect in AcMNPV Infection

PubMed Central

Li, Binbin; Li, Sisi; Yin, Juan; Zhong, Jiang

2013-01-01

Histone H3-lysine9 (H3K9) trimethyltransferase gene Su(var) 3-9 was cloned and identified in three Spodoptera insects, Spodoptera frugiperda ( S . frugiperda ), S . exigua and S . litura . Sequence analysis showed that Spodoptera Su(var) 3-9 is highly conserved evolutionarily. Su(var) 3-9 protein was found to be localized in the nucleus in Sf9 cells, and interact with histone H3, and the heterochromatin protein 1a (HP1a) and HP1b. A dose-dependent enzymatic activity was found at both 27 °C and 37 °C in vitro, with higher activity at 27 °C. Addition of specific inhibitor chaetocin resulted in decreased histone methylation level and host chromatin relaxation. In contrast, overexpression of Su(var) 3-9 caused increased histone methylation level and cellular genome compaction. In AcMNV-infected Sf9 cells, the transcription of Su(var) 3-9 increased at late time of infection, although the mRNA levels of most cellular genes decreased. Pre-treatment of Sf9 cells with chaetocin speeded up viral DNA replication, and increased the transcription level of a variety of virus genes, whereas in Sf9 cells pre-transformed with Su(var) 3-9 expression vector, viral DNA replication slow down slightly. These findings suggest that Su(var) 3-9 might participate in the viral genes expression an genome replication repression during AcMNPV infection. It provided a new insight for the understanding virus–host interaction mechanism. PMID:23894480

3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, ecstasy) disrupts blood-brain barrier integrity through a mechanism involving P2X7 receptors.

PubMed

Rubio-Araiz, Ana; Perez-Hernandez, Mercedes; Urrutia, Andrés; Porcu, Francesca; Borcel, Erika; Gutierrez-Lopez, Maria Dolores; O'Shea, Esther; Colado, Maria Isabel

2014-08-01

The recreational drug 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA; 'ecstasy') produces a neuro-inflammatory response in rats characterized by an increase in microglial activation and IL-1β levels. The integrity of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) is important in preserving the homeostasis of the brain and has been shown to be affected by neuro-inflammatory processes. We aimed to study the effect of a single dose of MDMA on the activity of metalloproteinases (MMPs), expression of extracellular matrix proteins, BBB leakage and the role of the ionotropic purinergic receptor P2X7 (P2X7R) in the changes induced by the drug. Adult male Dark Agouti rats were treated with MDMA (10 mg/kg, i.p.) and killed at several time-points in order to evaluate MMP-9 and MMP-3 activity in the hippocampus and laminin and collagen-IV expression and IgG extravasation in the dentate gyrus. Microglial activation, P2X7R expression and localization were also determined in the dentate gyrus. Separate groups were treated with MDMA and the P2X7R antagonists Brilliant Blue G (BBG; 50 mg/kg, i.p.) or A-438079 (30 mg/kg, i.p.). MDMA increased MMP-3 and MMP-9 activity, reduced laminin and collagen-IV expression and increased IgG immunoreactivity. In addition, MDMA increased microglial activation and P2X7R immunoreactivity in these cells. BBG suppressed the increase in MMP-9 and MMP-3 activity, prevented basal lamina degradation and IgG extravasation into the brain parenchyma. A-438079 also prevented the MDMA-induced reduction in laminin and collagen-IV immunoreactivity. These results indicate that MDMA alters BBB permeability through an early P2X7R-mediated event, which in turn leads to enhancement of MMP-9 and MMP-3 activity and degradation of extracellular matrix.

Energy-band alignment of (HfO2)x(Al2O3)1-x gate dielectrics deposited by atomic layer deposition on β-Ga2O3 (-201)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuan, Lei; Zhang, Hongpeng; Jia, Renxu; Guo, Lixin; Zhang, Yimen; Zhang, Yuming

2018-03-01

Energy band alignments between series band of Al-rich high-k materials (HfO2)x(Al2O3)1-x and β-Ga2O3 are investigated using X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS). The results exhibit sufficient conduction band offsets (1.42-1.53 eV) in (HfO2)x(Al2O3)1-x/β-Ga2O3. In addition, it is also obtained that the value of Eg, △Ec, and △Ev for (HfO2)x(Al2O3)1-x/β-Ga2O3 change linearly with x, which can be expressed by 6.98-1.27x, 1.65-0.56x, and 0.48-0.70x, respectively. The higher dielectric constant and higher effective breakdown electric field of (HfO2)x(Al2O3)1-x compared with Al2O3, coupled with sufficient barrier height and lower gate leakage makes it a potential dielectric for high voltage β-Ga2O3 power MOSFET, and also provokes interest in further investigation of HfAlO/β-Ga2O3 interface properties.

Targeting Common but Complex Proteoglycans on Breast Cancer Cells and Stem Cells Using Evolutionary Refined Malaria Proteins

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-09-01

protein VAR2CSA. We have extensive data demonstrating that this protein specifically targets sulfated chondroitin sulfate A proteoglycans present on all... chondroitin sulfate A on circulating tumor cells using a evolutionary refined malaria protein B) National Annual PhD meeting in Oncology, March 26-27...malaria protein VAR2CSA when sulfated on carbon 4 of the CS backbone. We have identified CSPG4 as a major protein in breast cancer cells, but also a

Significant expression of thyroid transcription factor-1 in pulmonary squamous cell carcinoma detected by SPT24 monoclonal antibody and CSA-II system.

PubMed

Kashima, Kenji; Hashimoto, Hisashi; Nishida, Haruto; Arakane, Motoki; Yada, Naomi; Daa, Tsutomu; Yokoyama, Shigeo

2014-01-01

In contrast to the usefulness of thyroid transcription factor-1 (TTF-1) in distinguishing primary adenocarcinoma of the lung from metastatic lesions, TTF-1 expression in pulmonary squamous cell carcinoma is reported to be at low level and not a suitable immunohistochemical marker. We hypothesized that the highly sensitive detection system, CSA-II, can visualize even faint expression of TTF-1 in pulmonary squamous cell carcinoma. In this study, 2 commercially available clones of TTF-1 monoclonal antibody, 8G7G3/1 and SPT24, were used for staining 38 cases of pulmonary squamous cell carcinoma, in combination with the CSA-II and the conventional detection system, EnVision. The combined use of the 8G7G3/1 clone with EnVision and CSA-II showed a positive reaction in only 1 and 4 cases, respectively. The use of SPT24 clone showed positive staining in 5 cases with EnVision and in 20 of 38 cases (52.6%) with the CSA-II. Interestingly, positive staining by the SPT24-CSA-II technique of samples from tissue blocks preserved for <2 years was 73.6% compared with only 31.5% in those preserved for >2 years. In addition, a 6-month preservation of the cut sections resulted in stain fading and decreased positivity (50%), compared with freshly cut sections. We conclude that the use of the SPT24 monoclonal antibody with the CSA-II system can detect even weak expression of TTF-1 in pulmonary squamous cell carcinoma. This staining technique can potentially allow the discrimination of primary squamous cell carcinoma of the lung from metastatic lesions, especially in freshly prepared paraffin sections.

Csa-19, a radiation-responsive human gene, identified by an unbiased two-gel cDNA library screening method in human cancer cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Balcer-Kubiczek, E. K.; Meltzer, S. J.; Han, L. H.; Zhang, X. F.; Shi, Z. M.; Harrison, G. H.; Abraham, J. M.

1997-01-01

A novel polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based method was used to identify candidate genes whose expression is altered in cancer cells by ionizing radiation. Transcriptional induction of randomly selected genes in control versus irradiated human HL60 cells was compared. Among several complementary DNA (cDNA) clones recovered by this approach, one cDNA clone (CL68-5) was downregulated in X-irradiated HL60 cells but unaffected by 12-O-tetradecanoyl phorbol-13-acetate, forskolin, or cyclosporin-A. DNA sequencing of the CL68-5 cDNA revealed 100% nucleotide sequence homology to the reported human Csa-19 gene. Northern blot analysis of RNA from control and irradiated cells revealed the expression of a single 0.7-kilobase (kb) messenger RNA (mRNA) transcript. This 0.7-kb Csa-19 mRNA transcript was also expressed in a variety of human adult and corresponding fetal normal tissues. Moreover, when the effect of X- or fission neutron-irradiation on Csa-19 mRNA was compared in cultured human cells differing in p53 gene status (p53-/- versus p53+/+), downregulation of Csa-19 by X-rays or fission neutrons was similar in p53-wild type and p53-null cell lines. Our results provide the first known example of a radiation-responsive gene in human cancer cells whose expression is not associated with p53, adenylate cyclase or protein kinase C.

The role of P2X3 receptors in bilateral masseter muscle allodynia in rats

PubMed Central

Tariba Knežević, Petra; Vukman, Robert; Antonić, Robert; Kovač, Zoran; Uhač, Ivone; Simonić-Kocijan, Sunčana

2016-01-01

Aim To determine the relationship between bilateral allodynia induced by masseter muscle inflammation and P2X3 receptor expression changes in trigeminal ganglia (TRG) and the influence of intramasseteric P2X3 antagonist administration on bilateral masseter allodynia. Methods To induce bilateral allodynia, rats received a unilateral injection of complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA) into the masseter muscle. Bilateral head withdrawal threshold (HWT) was measured 4 days later. Behavioral measurements were followed by bilateral masseter muscle and TRG dissection. Masseter tissue was evaluated histopathologically and TRG tissue was analyzed for P2X3 receptor mRNA expression by using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis. To assess the P2X3 receptor involvement in nocifensive behavior, two doses (6 and 60 μg/50 μL) of selective P2X3 antagonist A-317491 were administrated into the inflamed masseter muscle 4 days after the CFA injection. Bilateral HWT was measured at 15-, 30-, 60-, and 120-minute time points after A-317491 administration. Results HWT was bilaterally reduced after the CFA injection (P < 0.001). Intramasseteric inflammation was confirmed ipsilaterally to the CFA injection. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis demonstrated enhanced P2X3 expression in TRG ipsilaterally to CFA administration (P < 0.01). In comparison with controls, the dose of 6 μg of A-317491 significantly increased bilateral HWT at 15-, 30-, and 60-minute time points after the A-317491 administration (P < 0.001), whereas the dose of 60 μg of A-317491 was efficient at all time points ipsilaterally (P = 0.004) and at 15-, 30-, and 60-minute time points contralaterally (P < 0.001). Conclusion Unilateral masseter inflammation can induce bilateral allodynia in rats. The study provided evidence that P2X3 receptors can functionally influence masseter muscle allodynia and suggested that P2X3 receptors expressed in TRG neurons are involved in masseter

Designing new lithium-excess cathode materials from percolation theory: nanohighways in Li(x)Ni(2-4x/3)Sb(x/3)O2.

PubMed

Twu, Nancy; Li, Xin; Urban, Alexander; Balasubramanian, Mahalingam; Lee, Jinhyuk; Liu, Lei; Ceder, Gerbrand

2015-01-14

Increasing lithium content is shown to be a successful strategy for designing new cathode materials. In layered Li(x)Ni(2-4x/3)Sb(x/3)O2 (x = 1.00-1.15), lithium excess improves both discharge capacity and capacity retention at 1C. Structural studies reveal a complex nanostructure pattern of Li-Sb and Ni-Sb ordering where the interface between these domains forms the correct local configuration for good lithium mobility. The <1 nm Li-Sb stripe domains and their interfaces thereby effectively act as nanohighways for lithium diffusion.

An Interaction between RRP6 and SU(VAR)3-9 Targets RRP6 to Heterochromatin and Contributes to Heterochromatin Maintenance in Drosophila melanogaster.

PubMed

Eberle, Andrea B; Jordán-Pla, Antonio; Gañez-Zapater, Antoni; Hessle, Viktoria; Silberberg, Gilad; von Euler, Anne; Silverstein, Rebecca A; Visa, Neus

2015-09-01

RNA surveillance factors are involved in heterochromatin regulation in yeast and plants, but less is known about the possible roles of ribonucleases in the heterochromatin of animal cells. Here we show that RRP6, one of the catalytic subunits of the exosome, is necessary for silencing heterochromatic repeats in the genome of Drosophila melanogaster. We show that a fraction of RRP6 is associated with heterochromatin, and the analysis of the RRP6 interaction network revealed physical links between RRP6 and the heterochromatin factors HP1a, SU(VAR)3-9 and RPD3. Moreover, genome-wide studies of RRP6 occupancy in cells depleted of SU(VAR)3-9 demonstrated that SU(VAR)3-9 contributes to the tethering of RRP6 to a subset of heterochromatic loci. Depletion of the exosome ribonucleases RRP6 and DIS3 stabilizes heterochromatic transcripts derived from transposons and repetitive sequences, and renders the heterochromatin less compact, as shown by micrococcal nuclease and proximity-ligation assays. Such depletion also increases the amount of HP1a bound to heterochromatic transcripts. Taken together, our results suggest that SU(VAR)3-9 targets RRP6 to a subset of heterochromatic loci where RRP6 degrades chromatin-associated non-coding RNAs in a process that is necessary to maintain the packaging of the heterochromatin.

An Interaction between RRP6 and SU(VAR)3-9 Targets RRP6 to Heterochromatin and Contributes to Heterochromatin Maintenance in Drosophila melanogaster

PubMed Central

Eberle, Andrea B.; Jordán-Pla, Antonio; Gañez-Zapater, Antoni; Hessle, Viktoria; Silberberg, Gilad; von Euler, Anne; Silverstein, Rebecca A.; Visa, Neus

2015-01-01

RNA surveillance factors are involved in heterochromatin regulation in yeast and plants, but less is known about the possible roles of ribonucleases in the heterochromatin of animal cells. Here we show that RRP6, one of the catalytic subunits of the exosome, is necessary for silencing heterochromatic repeats in the genome of Drosophila melanogaster. We show that a fraction of RRP6 is associated with heterochromatin, and the analysis of the RRP6 interaction network revealed physical links between RRP6 and the heterochromatin factors HP1a, SU(VAR)3-9 and RPD3. Moreover, genome-wide studies of RRP6 occupancy in cells depleted of SU(VAR)3-9 demonstrated that SU(VAR)3-9 contributes to the tethering of RRP6 to a subset of heterochromatic loci. Depletion of the exosome ribonucleases RRP6 and DIS3 stabilizes heterochromatic transcripts derived from transposons and repetitive sequences, and renders the heterochromatin less compact, as shown by micrococcal nuclease and proximity-ligation assays. Such depletion also increases the amount of HP1a bound to heterochromatic transcripts. Taken together, our results suggest that SU(VAR)3-9 targets RRP6 to a subset of heterochromatic loci where RRP6 degrades chromatin-associated non-coding RNAs in a process that is necessary to maintain the packaging of the heterochromatin. PMID:26389589

Window type: 2x3 fixed multipaned steel window flanked by 1x3 ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

Window type: 2x3 fixed multipaned steel window flanked by 1x3 multipaned steel casements. Concrete sill and spandrel also illustrated. Building 43, facing east - Harbor Hills Housing Project, 26607 Western Avenue, Lomita, Los Angeles County, CA

Synthetic and Spectroscopic Studies on N-(i,j-Disubstituted Phenyl)-4- Substituted Benzenesulphonamides, 4-X'C6H4SO2NH(i,j-X2C6H3), where X' = H, CH3, C2H5, F, Cl or Br; i, j = 2, 3; 2, 4; 2, 5; 2, 6 or 3, 4; and X = CH3 or Cl

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shetty, Mahesha; Gowda, B. Thimme

2005-02-01

Fifty four N-(i,j-disubstituted phenyl)-4-substituted benzenesulphonamides of the general formula 4-X'C6H4SO2NH(i,j-X2C6H3), where X' = H, CH3, C2H5, F, Cl or Br; i,j = 2,3; 2,4; 2,5; 2,6 or 3, 4; and X = CH3 or Cl, are prepared and characterized and their infrared, 1H and 13C NMR spectra in solution are studied. The N-H stretching vibrations νN-H absorb in the range 3305 - 3205 cm-1, while the asymmetric and symmetric SO2 vibrations vary in the ranges 1377 - 1307 cm-1 and 1184 - 1128 cm-1, respectively. The N-(i,j-disubstituted phenyl)-4-substituted benzenesulphonamides show C-S, S-N and C-N stretching vibrations in the ranges 844 - 800 cm-1, 945 - 891 cm-1 and 1309 - 1170 cm-1, respectively. The compounds do not exhibit particular trends in the variation of these frequencies on substitution either at ortho or meta positions with either a methyl group or Cl. The observed 1H and 13C chemical shifts of 2.jpg" /> are assigned to protons and carbon atoms of the two benzene rings. Incremental shifts of the ring protons and carbon atoms due to -SO2NH(i,j-X2C6H3) groups in C6H5SO2NH(i,j-X2C6H3) and 4-X'C6H4SO2NH- groups in 4-X'C6H4SO2NH(C6H*) are computed and employed to calculate the chemical shifts of the ring protons and carbon atoms in the substituted compounds 4-X'C6H4SO2NH(i,j-X2C6H3). The different methods of calculation lead to almost the same values in most cases and agree well with the observed chemical shifts, indicating the validity of the principle of additivity of the substituent effects with chemical shifts in these compounds.

Exploring the Reactivity Trends in the E2 and SN2 Reactions of X(-) + CH3CH2Cl (X = F, Cl, Br, HO, HS, HSe, NH2 PH2, AsH2, CH3, SiH3, and GeH3).

PubMed

Wu, Xiao-Peng; Sun, Xiao-Ming; Wei, Xi-Guang; Ren, Yi; Wong, Ning-Bew; Li, Wai-Kee

2009-06-09

The reactivity order of 12 anions toward ethyl chloride has been investigated by using the G2(+) method, and the competitive E2 and SN2 reactions are discussed and compared. The reactions studied are X(-) + CH3CH2Cl → HX + CH2═CH2 + Cl(-) and X(-) + CH3CH2Cl → CH3CH2X + Cl(-), with X = F, Cl, Br, HO, HS, HSe, NH2 PH2, AsH2, CH3, SiH3, and GeH3. Our results indicate that there is no general and straightforward relationship between the overall barriers and the proton affinity (PA) of X(-); instead, discernible linear correlations only exist for the X's within the same group of the periodic table. Similar correlations are also found with the electronegativity of central atoms in X, deformation energy of the E2 transition state (TS), and the overall enthalpy of reaction. It is revealed that the electronegativity will significantly affect the barrier height, and a more electronegative X will stabilize the E2 and SN2 transition states. Multiple linear regression analysis shows that there is a reasonable linear correlation between E2 (or SN2) overall barriers and the linear combination of PA of X(-) and electronegativity of the central atom.

E2 and SN2 Reactions of X(-) + CH3CH2X (X = F, Cl); an ab Initio and DFT Benchmark Study.

PubMed

Bento, A Patrícia; Solà, Miquel; Bickelhaupt, F Matthias

2008-06-01

We have computed consistent benchmark potential energy surfaces (PESs) for the anti-E2, syn-E2, and SN2 pathways of X(-) + CH3CH2X with X = F and Cl. This benchmark has been used to evaluate the performance of 31 popular density functionals, covering local-density approximation, generalized gradient approximation (GGA), meta-GGA, and hybrid density-functional theory (DFT). The ab initio benchmark has been obtained by exploring the PESs using a hierarchical series of ab initio methods [up to CCSD(T)] in combination with a hierarchical series of Gaussian-type basis sets (up to aug-cc-pVQZ). Our best CCSD(T) estimates show that the overall barriers for the various pathways increase in the order anti-E2 (X = F) < SN2 (X = F) < SN2 (X = Cl) ∼ syn-E2 (X = F) < anti-E2 (X = Cl) < syn-E2 (X = Cl). Thus, anti-E2 dominates for F(-) + CH3CH2F, and SN2 dominates for Cl(-) + CH3CH2Cl, while syn-E2 is in all cases the least favorable pathway. Best overall agreement with our ab initio benchmark is obtained by representatives from each of the three categories of functionals, GGA, meta-GGA, and hybrid DFT, with mean absolute errors in, for example, central barriers of 4.3 (OPBE), 2.2 (M06-L), and 2.0 kcal/mol (M06), respectively. Importantly, the hybrid functional BHandH and the meta-GGA M06-L yield incorrect trends and qualitative features of the PESs (in particular, an erroneous preference for SN2 over the anti-E2 in the case of F(-) + CH3CH2F) even though they are among the best functionals as measured by their small mean absolute errors of 3.3 and 2.2 kcal/mol in reaction barriers. OLYP and B3LYP have somewhat higher mean absolute errors in central barriers (5.6 and 4.8 kcal/mol, respectively), but the error distribution is somewhat more uniform, and as a consequence, the correct trends are reproduced.

Window type: paired 3x2 multipaned steel window flanked by 1x3 ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

Window type: paired 3x2 multipaned steel window flanked by 1x3 multipaned steel casements, breaking building corner. Broad overhanging eave also illustrated. Second story detail. Building 13, facing east - Harbor Hills Housing Project, 26607 Western Avenue, Lomita, Los Angeles County, CA

Purinergic 2X7 receptor/NLRP3 pathway triggers neuronal apoptosis after ischemic stroke in the mouse.

PubMed

Ye, Xinchun; Shen, Tong; Hu, Jinxia; Zhang, Liang; Zhang, Yunshan; Bao, Lei; Cui, Chengcheng; Jin, Guoliang; Zan, Kun; Zhang, Zuohui; Yang, Xinxin; Shi, Hongjuan; Zu, Jie; Yu, Ming; Song, Chengjie; Wang, Yulan; Qi, Suhua; Cui, Guiyun

2017-06-01

Previous research has shown that Purinergic 2X7 receptor (P2X7R) and NLRP3 inflammasome contribute to the inflammatory activation. In this study, we investigated whether P2X7R/NLRP3 pathway is involved in the caspase-3 dependent neuronal apoptosis after ischemic stroke by using a focal cortex ischemic stroke model. The expressions of P2X7R, NLRP3 inflammsome components, and cleaved caspase-3 were significantly enhanced in the ischemic brain tissue after stroke. However, the expression of cleaved caspase-3 was significantly attenuated after treatment of stroke with P2X7R antagonist (BBG) or NLRP3 inhibitor (MCC950). The treatment also significantly reduced the infarction volume, neuronal apoptosis, and neurological impairment. In addition, in vitro data also support the hypothesis that P2X7R/NLRP3 pathway plays a vital role in caspase-3 dependent neuronal apoptosis after ischemic stroke. Further investigation of effective regulation of P2X7R and NLRP3 in stroke is warranted. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Inc.

4D-Var Developement at GMAO

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pelc, Joanna S.; Todling, Ricardo; Akkraoui, Amal El

2014-01-01

The Global Modeling and Assimilation Offce (GMAO) is currently using an IAU-based 3D-Var data assimilation system. GMAO has been experimenting with a 3D-Var-hybrid version of its data assimilation system (DAS) for over a year now, which will soon become operational and it will rapidly progress toward a 4D-EnVar. Concurrently, the machinery to exercise traditional 4DVar is in place and it is desirable to have a comparison of the traditional 4D approach with the other available options, and evaluate their performance in the Goddard Earth Observing System (GEOS) DAS. This work will also explore the possibility for constructing a reduced order model (ROM) to make traditional 4D-Var computationally attractive for increasing model resolutions. Part of the research on ROM will be to search for a suitably acceptable space to carry on the corresponding reduction. This poster illustrates how the IAU-based 4D-Var assimilation compares with our currently used IAU-based 3D-Var.

[Chemical Constituents of Paris polyphylla var. chinensis Aerial Parts].

PubMed

Yin, Wei; Song, Zu-rong; Liu, Jin-qi; Zhang, Guo-sheng

2015-09-01

To study the chemical constituents of aerial parts of Paris polyphylla var. chinensis . Aerial parts of Paris polyphylla var. chinensis was extracted with 95% EtOH, and separated and purified by silica gel, RP 18 and Sephadex LH-20 col- umn chromatography. The structures were identified by spectroscopic analysis. A total of ten compounds were isolated and iden- tified as β-sitosterol (1) ergosta-7, 22-dien-3-one (2), β-ecdysone (3), kaempferol (4), daucosterol (5) luteolin (6) calonysterone (7), luteolin-7-O-glucoside (8), quercetin (9), and 3β, 5α, 9α-trihydroxyergosta-7, 22-dien-6-one (10). Compounds 2,6 and 10 are isolated from Paris polyphylla var. chinensis for the first time.

Crystal structures of the new ternary stannides La{sub 3}Mg{sub 4−x}Sn{sub 2+x} and LaMg{sub 3−x}Sn{sub 2}

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Solokha, P., E-mail: pavlo.solokha@unige.it; De Negri, S.; Minetti, R.

2016-01-15

Synthesis and structural characterization of the two new lanthanum–magnesium–stannides La{sub 3}Mg{sub 4−x}Sn{sub 2+x} (0.12≤x≤0.40) and LaMg{sub 3−x}Sn{sub 2} (0.33≤x≤0.78) are reported. The crystal structures of these intermetallics were determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis and confirmed by Rietveld refinement of powder X-ray diffraction patterns of the corresponding samples. The La{sub 3}Mg{sub 4−x}Sn{sub 2+x} phase crystallizes in the hexagonal Zr{sub 3}Cu{sub 4}Si{sub 2} structure type (P6¯2m, hP9, Z=3, x=0.12(1), a=7.7974(7), c=4.8384(4) Å), which represents an ordered derivative of the hP9-ZrNiAl prototype, ubiquitous among equiatomic intermetallics. The LaMg{sub 3–x}Sn{sub 2} phase is the second representative of the trigonal LaMg{sub 3−x}Ge{sub 2}more » type, which is a superstructure of the LaLi{sub 3}Sb{sub 2} structure type (P3¯1c, hP34-0.12, Z=6, x=0.35(1), a=8.3222(9), c=14.9546(16) Å). The scheme describing the symmetry reduction/coloring with respect to the parent type is reported here with the purpose to discuss the LaMg{sub 3−x}Sn{sub 2} off-stoichiometry from the geometrical point of view. Structural relationships between the La–Mg–Sn ternary phases, including the already known equiatomic LaMgSn compound (oP12-TiNiSi), are presented in the framework of the AlB{sub 2}-related compounds family and discussed with the aid of group-subgroup relations in the Bärnighausen formalism. - Graphical abstract: Crystal structure of LaMg{sub 3−x}Sn{sub 2} viewed along the (001) direction together with the puckered layer of Mg and Sn atoms hosting Mg2, Mg3 and vacancy □. - Highlights: • Crystal structures of the new La{sub 3}Mg{sub 4−x}Sn{sub 2+x} and LaMg{sub 3−x}Sn{sub 2} phases were determined. • The off-stoichiometry of LaMg{sub 3−x}Sn{sub 2} was discussed from geometrical point of view. • Structural relations between the known La–Mg–Sn phases were established. • The studied

Foam separation of Pseudomonas fluorescens and Bacillus subtilis var. niger.

PubMed

Grieves, R B; Wang, S L

1967-01-01

An experimental investigation established the effect of the presence of inorganic salts on the foam separation of Pseudomonas fluorescens and of Bacillus subtilis var. niger (B. globigii) from aqueous suspension by use of a cationic surfactant. For P. fluorescens, 5.0 mueq/ml of NaCl, KCl, Na(2)SO(4), K(2)SO(4), CaCl(2), CaSO(4), MgCl(2), or MgSO(4) produced increases in the cell concentration in the residual suspension (not carried into the foam) from 2.9 x 10(5) up to 1.6 x 10(6) to 2.8 x 10(7) cells per milliliter (initial suspensions contain from 3.3 x 10(7) to 4.8 x 10(7) cells per milliliter). The exceptional influence of magnesium was overcome by bringing the cells into contact first with the surfactant and then the salt. For B. subtilis, the presence of 5.0 mueq/ml of any of the eight salts increased the residual cell concentration by one order of magnitude from 1.2 x 10(4) to about 4.0 x 10(5) cells per milliliter. This occurred regardless of the sequence of contact as long as the surfactant contact period was sufficient. The presence of salts increased collapsed foam volumes with P. fluorescens and decreased collapsed foam volumes with B. subtilis.

A Computational Study of Chalcogen-containing H2 X…YF and (CH3 )2 X…YF (X=O, S, Se; Y=F, Cl, H) and Pnicogen-containing H3 X'…YF and (CH3 )3 X'…YF (X'=N, P, As) Complexes.

PubMed

McDowell, Sean A C; Buckingham, A David

2018-04-20

A computational study was undertaken for the model complexes H 2 X…YF and (CH 3 ) 2 X…YF (X=O, S, Se; Y=F, Cl, H), and H 3 X'…YF and (CH 3 ) 3 X'…YF (X'=N, P, As), at the MP2/6-311++G(d,p) level of theory. For H 2 X…YF and H 3 X'…YF, noncovalent interactions dominate the binding in order of increasing YF dipole moment, except for H 3 As…F 2 , and possibly H 3 As…ClF. However, for the methyl-substituted complexes (CH 3 ) 2 X…YF and (CH 3 ) 3 X'…YF the binding is especially strong for the complexes containing F 2 , implying significant chemical bonding between the interacting molecules. The relative stability of these complexes can be rationalized by the difference in the electronegativity of the X or X' and Y atoms. © 2018 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Ba{sub 3}ZnTa{sub 2-x}Nb{sub x}O{sub 9} and Ba{sub 3}MgTa{sub 2-x}Nb{sub x}O{sub 9} (0{<=}x{<=}1): synthesis, structure and dielectric properties

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Thirumal, M.; Jawahar, I.N.; Surendiran, K.P.

2002-11-20

Oxides belonging to the families Ba{sub 3}ZnTa{sub 2-x}Nb{sub x}O{sub 9} and Ba{sub 3}MgTa{sub 2-x}Nb{sub x}O{sub 9} were synthesized by the solid state reaction route. Sintering temperatures of 1300 deg. C led to oxides with disordered (cubic) perovskite structure. However, on sintering at 1425 deg. C hexagonally ordered structures were obtained for Ba{sub 3}MgTa{sub 2-x}Nb{sub x}O{sub 9} over the entire range (0{<=}x{<=}1) of composition, while for Ba{sub 3}ZnTa{sub 2-x}Nb{sub x}O{sub 9} the ordered structure exists in a limited range (0{<=}x{<=}0.5). The dielectric constant is close to 30 for the Ba{sub 3}ZnTa{sub 2-x}Nb{sub x}O{sub 9} family of oxides while the Mg analoguesmore » have lower dielectric constant of {approx}18 in the range 50 Hz to 500 kHz. At microwave frequencies (5-7 GHz) dielectric constant increases with increase in niobium concentration (22-26) for Ba{sub 3}ZnTa{sub 2-x}Nb{sub x}O{sub 9}; for Ba{sub 3}MgTa{sub 2-x}Nb{sub x}O{sub 9} it varies between 12 and 14. The 'Zn' compounds have much higher quality factors and lower temperature coefficient of resonant frequency compared to the 'Mg' analogues.« less

Designing new lithium-excess cathode materials from percolation theory: Nanohighways in Li xNi 2–4x/3Sb x/3O 2

DOE PAGES

Twu, Nancy; Li, Xin; Urban, Alexander; ...

2014-12-17

Increasing lithium content is shown to be a successful strategy for designing new cathode materials. In layered Li xNi 2–4x/3Sb x/3O 2 (x = 1.00–1.15), lithium excess improves both discharge capacity and capacity retention at 1C. Structural studies disclose a complex nanostructure pattern of Li–Sb and Ni–Sb ordering where the interface between these domains forms the correct local configuration for good lithium mobility. The <1 nm Li–Sb stripe domains and their interfaces thereby effectively act as nanohighways for lithium diffusion.

P2X3 and P2X2/3 Receptors Play a Crucial Role in Articular Hyperalgesia Development Through Inflammatory Mechanisms in the Knee Joint Experimental Synovitis.

PubMed

Teixeira, Juliana Maia; Bobinski, Franciane; Parada, Carlos Amílcar; Sluka, Kathleen A; Tambeli, Cláudia Herrera

2017-10-01

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative and progressive disease characterized by cartilage breakdown and by synovial membrane inflammation, which results in disability, joint swelling, and pain. The purinergic P2X3 and P2X2/3 receptors contribute to development of inflammatory hyperalgesia, participate in arthritis processes in the knee joint, and are expressed in chondrocytes and nociceptive afferent fibers innervating the knee joint. In this study, we hypothesized that P2X3 and P2X2/3 receptors activation by endogenous ATP (adenosine 5'-triphosphate) induces articular hyperalgesia in the knee joint of male and female rats through an indirect sensitization of primary afferent nociceptors dependent on the previous release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and/or on neutrophil migration. We found that the blockade of articular P2X3 and P2X2/3 receptors significantly attenuated carrageenan-induced hyperalgesia in the knee joint of male and estrus female rats in a similar manner. The carrageenan-induced knee joint inflammation increased the expression of P2X3 receptors in chondrocytes of articular cartilage. Further, the blockade of articular P2X3 and P2X2/3 receptors significantly reduced the increased concentration of TNF-α, IL-6, and CINC-1 and the neutrophil migration induced by carrageenan. These findings indicate that P2X3 and P2X2/3 receptors activation by endogenous ATP is essential to hyperalgesia development in the knee joint through an indirect sensitization of primary afferent nociceptors dependent on the previous release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and/or on neutrophil migration.

Trypsin inhibitors from Capsicum baccatum var. pendulum leaves involved in Pepper yellow mosaic virus resistance.

PubMed

Moulin, M M; Rodrigues, R; Ribeiro, S F F; Gonçalves, L S A; Bento, C S; Sudré, C P; Vasconcelos, I M; Gomes, V M

2014-11-07

Several plant organs contain proteinase inhibitors, which are produced during normal plant development or are induced upon pathogen attack to suppress the enzymatic activity of phytopathogenic microorganisms. In this study, we examined the presence of proteinase inhibitors, specifically trypsin inhibitors, in the leaf extract of Capsicum baccatum var. pendulum inoculated with PepYMV (Pepper yellow mosaic virus). Leaf extract from plants with the accession number UENF 1624, which is resistant to PepYMV, was collected at 7 different times (0, 24, 48, 72, 96, 120, and 144 h). Seedlings inoculated with PepYMV and control seedlings were grown in a growth chamber. Protein extract from leaf samples was partially purified by reversed-phase chromatography using a C2/C18 column. Residual trypsin activity was assayed to detect inhibitors followed by Tricine-SDS-PAGE analysis to determine the N-terminal peptide sequence. Based on trypsin inhibitor assays, trypsin inhibitors are likely constitutively synthesized in C. baccatum var. pendulum leaf tissue. These inhibitors are likely a defense mechanism for the C. baccatum var. pendulum- PepYMV pathosystem.

Synthesis of layered perovskite oxides, ACa[sub 2-x]La[sub x]Nb[sub 3-x]Ti[sub x]O[sub 10] (A = K, Rb, Cs), and characterization of new solid acids, HCa[sub 2-x]La[sub x]Nb[sub 3-x]Ti[sub x]O[sub 10] (O < x [le] 2), exhibiting variable Bronsted acidity

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gopalakrishnan, J.; Uma, S.; Bhat, V.

1993-01-01

Layered perovskite oxides of the formula ACa[sub 2-x]La[sub x]Nb[sub 3-x]Ti[sub x]O[sub 10] (A = K, Rb, Cs and 0 , x [le] 2) have been prepared. The members adopt the structures of the parent ACa[sub 2]Nb[sub 3]O[sub 10]. Interlayer alkali cations in the niobium-titanium oxide series can be ion-exchanged with Li[sup +], Na[sup +], NG[sub 4][sup +], of H[sup +] to give new derivatives. Intercalation of the protonated derivatives with organic bases reveals that the Bronsted acidity of the solid solution series, HCa[sub 2-x]La[sub x]Nb[sub 3-x]Ti[sub x]O[sub 10], depends on the titanium content. While the x = 1 member (HCaLaNb[submore » 2]TiO[sub 10]) is nearly as acidic as the parent HCa[sub 2]Nb[sub 3]O[sub 10], the x = 2 member (HLA[sub 2]NbTi[sub 2]O[sub 10]) is a weak acid hardly intercalating organic bases with pK[sub a] [approximately] 11.3. The variation of acidity is probably due to an ordering of Nb/Ti atoms in the triple octahedral perovskite slabs, [Ca[sub 2-x]La[sub x]Nb[sub 3-x]Ti[sub x]O[sub 10

New family of pectinase genes PGU1b-PGU3b of the pectinolytic yeast Saccharomyces bayanus var. uvarum.

PubMed

Naumov, G I; Shalamitskiy, M Yu; Naumova, E S

2016-03-01

Using yeast genome databases and literature data, we have conducted a phylogenetic analysis of pectinase PGU genes from Saccharomyces strains assigned to the biological species S. arboricola, S. bayanus (var. uvarum), S. cariocanus, S. cerevisiae, S. kudriavzevii, S. mikatae, S. paradoxus, and hybrid taxon S. pastorianus (syn. S. carlsbergensis). Single PGU genes were observed in all Saccharomyces species, except S. bayanus. The superfamily of divergent PGU genes has been documented in S. bayanus var. uvarum for the first time. Chromosomal localization of new PGU1b, PGU2b, and PGU3b genes in the yeast S. bayanus var. uvarum has been determined by molecular karyotyping and Southern hybridization.

Composition dependence of superconductivity in YBa2(Cu(3-x)Al(x))O(y)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bansal, N. P.

1993-01-01

Eleven different compositions in the system YBa2(Cu(3-x)Al(x))O(y) (x = 0 to 0.3) have been synthesized and characterized by electrical resistivity measurements, powder X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy. The superconducting transition temperature T sub c (onset) was almost unaffected by the presence of alumina due to its limited solubility in YBa2Cu3O(7-x). However, T sub c(R = 0) gradually decreased, and the resistive tails became longer with increasing Al2O3 concentration. This was probably due to formation of BaAl2O4 and other impurity phases from chemical decomposition of the superconducting phase by reaction with Al2O3.

The effect of PO 4 doping on the luminescent properties of Sr 3-3zEu 2zV 2-xP xO 8

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cao, S.; Ma, Y. Q.; Yang, K.; Zhu, W. L.; Yin, W. J.; Zheng, G. H.; Wu, M. Z.; Sun, Z. Q.

2010-07-01

The luminescent properties of Sr 3V 2-xP xO 8 (0 ⩽ x ⩽ 2), Eu 3+ doped Sr 2.7Eu 0.2V 2-yP yO 8 (0 ⩽ y ⩽ 2) and Sr 3-3zEu 2zV 0.8P 1.2O 8 (0 < z ⩽ 0.3) have been investigated. For the Sr 3V 2-xP xO 8 (0 ⩽ x ⩽ 2) samples, the VO43- activation and emission intensity reaches the strongest as x = 1.6. For the Sr 2.7Eu 0.2V 2-yP yO 8 (0 ⩽ y ⩽ 2) samples, an appropriate amount of phosphorus doping enhances the Eu 3+ emission with the strongest emission occurring at y = 1.2. For the Sr 3-3zEu 2zV 0.8P 1.2O 8 (0 < z ⩽ 0.3) sample with the phosphorus content fixed at 1.2, it exhibits the most intense emission as Eu 3+ concentration reaches at z = 0.2. Our results indicate that the introduction of the PO43- plays an important role in the photoluminescence properties of the studied samples and the relevant mechanism has been discussed.

Luminescence in microcrystalline green emitting Li2Mg1-xZrO4:xTb3+ (0.1 ≤ x ≤ 2.0) phosphor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Panse, V. R.; Kokode, N. S.; Shinde, K. N.; Dhoble, S. J.

2018-03-01

Green emitting Li2Mg1-xZrO4:xTb3+ (0.1 ≤ x ≤ 2.0) phosphor powders were synthesized via the wet chemical synthesis and the luminescent proprieties were studied when excited at 380 nm and present a dominant and strong green luminescence peak at 543 nm, due to D-F transition. The preparation of Li2Mg1-xZrO4:xTb3+ (0.1 ≤ x ≤ 2.0) phosphor powders were confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) results without any secondary or impurity phases. The size and morphology of the Li2Mg1-xZrO4:xTb3+ (0.1 ≤ x ≤ 2.0) phosphor powders were further examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Photoluminescence (PL) results have shown strongest green emission at 543 nm, which is originated due to 5D4-7F5 transition of Tb3+ ion, for the Li2Mg1-xZrO4:xTb3+ (0.1 ≤ x ≤ 2.0) phosphor. The addition of concentration Tb3+ was greatly improved the photoluminescence properties of present phosphors. The present study suggests that the Li2Mg1-xZrO4:xTb3+ (0.1 ≤ x ≤ 2.0) phosphor is a strong candidate as a green component for phosphor-converted white light-emitting diodes (LEDs).

Identification and SAR of novel diaminopyrimidines. Part 1: The discovery of RO-4, a dual P2X(3)/P2X(2/3) antagonist for the treatment of pain.

PubMed

Carter, David S; Alam, Muzaffar; Cai, Haiying; Dillon, Michael P; Ford, Anthony P D W; Gever, Joel R; Jahangir, Alam; Lin, Clara; Moore, Amy G; Wagner, Paul J; Zhai, Yansheng

2009-03-15

P2X purinoceptors are ligand-gated ion channels whose endogenous ligand is ATP. Both the P2X(3) and P2X(2/3) receptor subtypes have been shown to play an important role in the regulation of sensory function and dual P2X(3)/P2X(2/3) antagonists offer significant potential for the treatment of pain. A high-throughput screen of the Roche compound collection resulted in the identification of a novel series of diaminopyrimidines; subsequent optimization resulted in the discovery of RO-4, a potent, selective and drug-like dual P2X(3)/P2X(2/3) antagonist.

Structure Evolution and Reactivity of the Sc(2- x)V xO3+δ (0 ≤ x ≤ 2.0) System.

PubMed

Lussier, Joey A; Simon, Fabian J; Whitfield, Pamela S; Singh, Kalpana; Thangadurai, Venkataraman; Bieringer, Mario

2018-05-07

Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are solid-state electrochemical devices that directly convert chemical energy of fuels into electricity with high efficiency. Because of their fuel flexibility, low emissions, high conversion efficiency, no moving parts, and quiet operation, they are considered as a promising energy conversion technology for low carbon future needs. Solid-state oxide and proton conducting electrolytes play a crucial role in improving the performance and market acceptability of SOFCs. Defect fluorite phases are some of the most promising fast oxide ion conductors for use as electrolytes in SOFCs. We report the synthesis, structure, phase diagram, and high-temperature reactivity of the Sc (2- x) V x O 3+δ (0 ≤ x ≤ 2.00) oxide defect model system. For all Sc (2- x) V x O 3.0 phases with x ≤ 1.08 phase-pure bixbyite-type structures are found, whereas for x ≥ 1.68 phase-pure corundum structures are reported, with a miscibility gap found for 1.08 < x < 1.68. Structural details obtained from the simultaneous Rietveld refinements using powder neutron and X-ray diffraction data are reported for the bixbyite phases, demonstrating a slight V 3+ preference toward the 8b site. In situ X-ray diffraction experiments were used to explore the oxidation of the Sc (2- x) V x O 3.0 phases. In all cases ScVO 4 was found as a final product, accompanied by Sc 2 O 3 for x < 1.0 and V 2 O 5 when x > 1.0; however, the oxidative pathway varied greatly throughout the series. Comments are made on different synthesis strategies, including the effect on crystallinity, reaction times, rate-limiting steps, and reaction pathways. This work provides insight into the mechanisms of solid-state reactions and strategic guidelines for targeted materials synthesis.

Nanoparticle-encapsulated emodin decreases diabetic neuropathic pain probably via a mechanism involving P2X3 receptor in the dorsal root ganglia.

PubMed

Li, Lin; Sheng, Xuan; Zhao, Shanhong; Zou, Lifang; Han, Xinyao; Gong, Yingxin; Yuan, Huilong; Shi, Liran; Guo, Lili; Jia, Tianyu; Liu, Shuangmei; Wu, Bing; Yi, Zhihua; Liu, Hui; Gao, Yun; Li, Guilin; Li, Guodong; Zhang, Chunping; Xu, Hong; Liang, Shangdong

2017-12-01

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is the most common complication of diabetes mellitus (DM). More than 90% of all cases of DM belong to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Emodin is the main active component of Radix et rhizoma rhei and has anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-ulcerogenic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer effects. Nanoparticle encapsulation of drugs is beneficial for drug targeting and bioavailability as well as for lowering drug toxicity side effects. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of nanoparticle-encapsulated emodin (nano emodin) on diabetic neuropathic pain (DNP) mediated by the Purin 2X3 (P2X3) receptor in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG). Mechanical withdrawal threshold (MWT) and thermal withdrawal latency (TWL) values in T2DM rats were lower than those of control rats. MWT and TWL in T2DM rats treated with nano emodin were higher compared with those in T2DM rats. Expression levels of P2X3 protein and messenger RNA (mRNA) in the DRG of T2DM rats were higher than those of controls, while levels in T2DM rats treated with nano emodin were significantly lower than those of the T2DM rats. Phosphorylation and activation of ERK1/2 in the T2DM DRG were decreased by nano emodin treatment. Nano emodin significantly inhibited currents activated by the P2X3 agonist α,β-meATP in HEK293 cells transfected with the P2X3 receptor. Therefore, nano emodin treatment may relieve DNP by decreasing excitatory transmission mediated by the DRG P2X3 receptor in T2DM rats.

Investigation on structural, optical and electrical properties of polythiophene-Al2O3 composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vijeth, H.; Yesappa, L.; Niranjana, M.; Ashokkumar, S. P.; Devendrappa, H.

2018-05-01

The polythiophene (PTH) and polythiophene-Al2O3 composites prepared by in situ chemical polymerisation in the presence of anionic surfactant camphor sulfonic acid (CSA). The formation of composite is confirmed by X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Energy Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis. The surface morphology was studied using Field Emission Electron Microscopy (FESEM). Optical properties was studied using UV-visible spectroscopy, it observed decrease in the band gap reveals material has potential application in optical devices. The dielectric constant and AC conductivity of composite have been studied for different temperature in the frequency range 1 kHz -1 MHz.

Real-Space Bonding Indicator Analysis of the Donor-Acceptor Complexes X3BNY3, X3AlNY3, X3BPY3, and X3AlPY3 (X, Y = H, Me, Cl).

PubMed

Mebs, Stefan; Beckmann, Jens

2017-10-12

Calculations of real-space bonding indicators (RSBI) derived from Atoms-In-Molecules (AIM), Electron Localizability Indicator (ELI-D), Non-Covalent Interactions index (NCI), and Density Overlap Regions Indicator (DORI) toolkits for a set of 36 donor-acceptor complexes X 3 BNY 3 (1, 1a-1h), X 3 AlNY 3 (2, 2a-2h), X 3 BPY 3 (3, 3a-3h), and X 3 AlPY 3 (4, 4a-4h) reveal that the donor-acceptor bonds comprise covalent and ionic interactions in varying extents (X = Y = H for 1-4; X = H, Y = Me for 1a-4a; X = H, Y = Cl for 1b-4b; X = Me, Y = H for 1c-4c; X, Y = Me for 1d-4d; X = Me, Y = Cl for 1e-4e; X = Cl, Y = H for 1f-4f; X = Cl, Y = Me for 1g-4g; X, Y = Cl for 1h-4h). The phosphinoboranes X 3 BPY 3 (3, 3a-3h) in general and Cl 3 BPMe 3 (3f) in particular show the largest covalent contributions and the least ionic contributions. The aminoalanes X 3 AlNY 3 (2, 2a-2h) in general and Me 3 AlNCl 3 (2e) in particular show the least covalent contributions and the largest ionic contributions. The aminoboranes X 3 BNY 3 (1, 1a-1h) and the phosphinoalanes X 3 AlPY 3 (4, 4a-4h) are midway between phosphinoboranes and aminoalanes. The degree of covalency and ionicity correlates with the electronegativity difference BP (ΔEN = 0.15) < AlP (ΔEN = 0.58) < BN (ΔEN = 1.00) < AlN (ΔEN = 1.43) and a previously published energy decomposition analysis (EDA). To illustrate the importance of both contributions in Lewis formula representations, two resonance formulas should be given for all compounds, namely, the canonical form with formal charges denoting covalency and the arrow notation pointing from the donor to the acceptor atom to emphasis ionicity. If the Lewis formula mainly serves to show the atomic connectivity, the most significant should be shown. Thus, it is legitimate to present aminoalanes using arrows; however, for phosphinoboranes the canonical form with formal charges is more appropriate.

Distribution Management System Volt/VAR Evaluation | Grid Modernization |

Science.gov Websites

NREL Distribution Management System Volt/VAR Evaluation Distribution Management System Volt/VAR Evaluation This project involves building a prototype distribution management system testbed that links a GE Grid Solutions distribution management system to power hardware-in-the-loop testing. This setup is

Spontaneous firing and evoked responses of spinal nociceptive neurons are attenuated by blockade of P2X3 and P2X2/3 receptors in inflamed rats.

PubMed

Xu, Jun; Chu, Katharine L; Brederson, Jill-Desiree; Jarvis, Michael F; McGaraughty, Steve

2012-08-01

P2X3 and P2X2/3 receptors are selectively expressed on primary afferent nociceptors and have been implicated in modulating nociception in different models of pathological pain, including inflammatory pain. In an effort to delineate further the role of P2X3 receptors (homomeric and heteromeric) in the modulation of nociceptive transmission after a chronic inflammation injury, A-317491, a potent and selective P2X3-P2X2/3 antagonist, was administered to CFA-inflamed rats in order to examine its effects on responses of spinal dorsal horn neurons to mechanical and thermal stimulation. Systemic injection of A-317491 (30 μmol/kg, i.v.) reduced the responses of wide-dynamic-range (WDR) and nociceptive specific (NS) neurons to both high-intensity mechanical (pinch) and heat (49°C) stimulation. A-317491 also decreased low-intensity (10 g von Frey hair) mechanically evoked activity of WDR neurons but did not alter WDR neuronal responses to cold stimulation (5°C). Spontaneous firing of WDR neurons in CFA-inflamed rats was also significantly attenuated by A-317491 injection. By using immunohistochemistry, P2X3 receptors were demonstrated to be enhanced in lamina II of the spinal dorsal horn after inflammation. In summary, blockade of P2X3 and P2X2/3 receptors dampens mechanical- and heat-related signaling, as well as nonevoked activity of key classes of spinal nociceptive neurons in inflamed animals. These data suggest that P2X3 and/or P2X2/3 receptors have a broad contribution to somatosensory/nociceptive transmission in rats with a chronic inflammatory injury and are consistent with previous behavioral data demonstrating antiallodynic and antihyperalgesic effects of receptor antagonists. Copyright © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

EPR spectroscopic investigations in 15BaO-25Li2O-(60-x) B2O3-xFe2O3 glass system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bhogi, Ashok; Kumar, R. Vijaya; Kistaiah, P.

2018-05-01

Glasses with composition 15BaO-25Li2O-(60-x) B2O3 -xFe2O3 (x = 0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8 and 1 mol %) were prepared by the conventional melt quenching technique. These glasses were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD). Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) investigations have been carried out as a function of iron ion concentration. The observed EPR spectra of Fe3+ ion exhibits resonance signals at g= 2.0, 4.3 and 8.0. The resonance signal at g= 4.3 is due to isolated Fe3+ ions in site with rhombic symmetry where as the g= 2.0 resonance signal is attributed to the Fe3+ ions coupled by exchange interaction in a distorted octahedral environment and the signal at g= 8.0 arises from axially distorted sites. The number of spins participating in resonance (N) and its paramagnetic susceptibilities (χ) have also been evaluated. The peak-to-peak line width ΔB for the resonance lines at g ≈ 4.3 and at g ≈ 2.0 is increasing as function of the iron ion content. The line intensity of the resonance centered at g ≈ 4.3 and at g ≈ 2.0 increases up to 0.8 mol% of Fe2O3 and for 1 mol% of Fe2O3 its value is found to decrease. The analysis of these results indicated that the conversion some of Fe3+ cations to Fe2+ ions beyond 0.8 mol%.

Method of producing superconducting fibers of YBa[sub 2]Cu[sub 3]O[sub x

DOEpatents

Schwartzkopf, L.A.; Ostenson, J.E.; Finnemore, D.K.

1990-11-13

Fibers of YBa[sub 2]Cu[sub 3]O[sub x] have been produce by pendant drop melt extraction. This technique involves the end of a rod of YBa[sub 2]Cu[sub 3]O[sub x] melted with a hydrogen-oxygen torch, followed by lowering onto the edge of a spinning wheel. The fibers are up to 10 cm in length with the usual lateral dimensions, ranging from 20 [mu]m to 125 [mu]m. The fibers require a heat treatment to make them superconducting.

Discovery of 1-(3-(benzyloxy)pyridin-2-yl)-3-(2-(piperazin-1-yl)ethyl)urea: A new modulator for amyloid beta-induced mitochondrial dysfunction.

PubMed

Elkamhawy, Ahmed; Park, Jung-Eun; Hassan, Ahmed H E; Ra, Hyunhwa; Pae, Ae Nim; Lee, Jiyoun; Park, Beoung-Geon; Moon, Bongjin; Park, Hyun-Mee; Roh, Eun Joo

2017-03-10

Herein, we report a new series of aliphatic substituted pyridyl-urea small molecules synthesized as potential modulators for amyloid beta (Aβ) induced mitochondrial dysfunction. Their blocking activities against Aβ-induced mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) opening were evaluated by JC-1 assay which measures the change of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm). The inhibitory activity of sixteen compounds against Aβ-induced mPTP opening was superior or almost similar to that of the standard Cyclosporin A (CsA). Among them, 1-(3-(benzyloxy)pyridin-2-yl)-3-(2-(piperazin-1-yl)ethyl)urea (5x) effectively maintained mitochondrial function and cell viabilities on ATP assay, MTT assay, and ROS assay. Using CDocker algorithm, a molecular docking model presented a plausible binding mode for 5x with cyclophilin D (CypD) receptor as a major component of mPTP. Moreover, hERG and BBB-PAMPA assays presented safe cardiotoxicity and high CNS bioavailability profiles for 5x. Taken as a whole, this report presents compound 5x as a new nonpeptidyl mPTP blocker may hold a promise for further development of Alzheimer's disease (AD) therapeutics. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.

Thermal and electrochemical behavior of Cu{sub 4−x}Li{sub x}S{sub 2} (x=1, 2, 3) phases

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chen, Erica M.; Poudeu, Pierre F.P., E-mail: ppoudeup@umich.edu

Several compositions of the Cu{sub 4−x}Li{sub x}S{sub 2} (x=1, 2, 3) series were synthesized via solid-state reaction of the elements. The structural stability at various temperatures and the effect of Li:Cu ratio on the thermal conductivity and the electrochemical performance of Cu{sub 4−x}Li{sub x}S{sub 2}/Li half-cells during charge–discharge process were investigated. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurements showed a sharp endothermic peak at 140 °C for Cu{sub 4−x}Li{sub x}S{sub 2} samples with x=1 and 2, which is ascribed to a structural phase transition. X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements on various Cu{sub 4−x}Li{sub x}S{sub 2} samples at temperatures below and above 140 °Cmore » indicated a structural phase transition from the room temperature low-symmetry structure to the high temperature cubic structure of Cu{sub 2}S. The thermal conductivity of Cu{sub 4−x}Li{sub x}S{sub 2} samples decreases with decreasing Cu:Li ratio and with increasing temperature. The thermal conductivity of Cu{sub 4−x}Li{sub x}S{sub 2} samples at room temperature decreases from 1.2 W/m K for Cu:Li=3:1 to 0.7 W/m K for Cu:Li=1:3. Cyclic voltammetry of Cu{sub 4−x}Li{sub x}S{sub 2}/Li half-cells showed that high discharge capacity (165 mA h g{sup −1}) and stable reversible charge–discharge process is observed for Cu:Li=2:2, whereas other Cu:Li ratios lead to low discharge capacity and poor reversibility. The electrochemical behavior of Cu{sub 4−x}Li{sub x}S{sub 2}/Li half-cells is rationalized by taking into account the competing reactions of Li{sup +} ions with CuS and Cu{sub 2}S during discharge. - Graphical abstract: Tuning Li content in Cu{sub 4−x}Li{sub x}S{sub 2}/Li half-cells to maintain a Cu/Li ratio equal to unity affords maximum capacity and high stability of the charge–discharge process. - Highlights: • Cu:Li ratio strongly influenced crystal structure and properties of Cu{sub 4-x}Li{sub x}S{sub 2}. • Compositions with x = 1 and

Band alignment of SiO2/(AlxGa1-x)2O3 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.49) determined by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Feng, Zhaoqing; Feng, Qian; Zhang, Jincheng; Li, Xiang; Li, Fuguo; Huang, Lu; Chen, Hong-Yan; Lu, Hong-Liang; Hao, Yue

2018-03-01

In this work, we report the investigation of the band alignment of SiO2/(AlxGa1-x)2O3 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.49) utilizing the high resolution X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) measurements. The single crystallinity and orientation of β-(AlxGa1-x)2O3 films grown on sapphire by pulsed laser deposition were studied with the high resolution X-ray diffraction. The Ga 2p3/2 and Si 2p core-level spectra as well as valence band spectra were used in the analysis of band alignment. As the mole fraction x of Al increases from 0 to 0.49, the bandgap and conduction band offset values of SiO2/(AlxGa1-x)2O3 increases from 4.9 to 5.6 eV and from 1.5 to 2.1 eV, respectively, while that of valence band offset decreases from 2.2 to 0.9 eV. From the results obtained, the energy band diagram of the studied SiO2/(AlxGa1-x)2O3 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.49) interfaces is found to be of type I. Energy band lineups of SiO2/(AlxGa1-x)2O3 were thus determined which can be used as for Ga2O3 based power device technology.

Study of the effect of antimicrobial peptide mimic, CSA-13, on an established biofilm formed by Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

PubMed

Nagant, Carole; Pitts, Betsey; Stewart, Philip S; Feng, Yanshu; Savage, Paul B; Dehaye, Jean-Paul

2013-04-01

The formation of a Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm, a complex structure enclosing bacterial cells in an extracellular polymeric matrix, is responsible for persistent infections in cystic fibrosis patients leading to a high rate of morbidity and mortality. The protective environment created by the tridimensional structure reduces the susceptibility of the bacteria to conventional antibiotherapy. Cationic steroid antibiotics (CSA)-13, a nonpeptide mimic of antimicrobial peptides with antibacterial activity on planktonic cultures, was evaluated for its ability to interact with sessile cells. Using confocal laser scanning microscopy, we demonstrated that the drug damaged bacteria within an established biofilm showing that penetration did not limit the activity of this antimicrobial agent against a biofilm. When biofilms were grown during exposure to shear forces and to a continuous medium flow allowing the development of robust structures with a complex architecture, CSA-13 reached the bacteria entrapped in the biofilm within 30 min. The permeabilizing effect of CSA-13 could be associated with the death of the bacteria. In static conditions, the compound did not perturb the architecture of the biofilm. This study confirms the potential of CSA-13 as a new strategy to combat persistent infections involving biofilms formed by P. aeruginosa. © 2013 The Authors. Published by Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Eu2+-Doped Sr2B2-2xSi2+3xAl2-xN8+x: A Boron-Containing Orange-Emitting Nitridosilicate with Interesting Composition-Dependent Photoluminescence Properties.

PubMed

Ten Kate, Otmar M; Xie, Rong-Jun; Wang, Chun-Yun; Funahashi, Shiro; Hirosaki, Naoto

2016-11-07

Novel Sr 2-y Eu y B 2-2x Si 2+3x Al 2-x N 8+x phosphors were investigated as a function of the boron and aluminum over silicon ratio and as a function of the Eu 2+ concentration. Samples were prepared via solid-state reaction synthesis by carefully controlling the synthesis conditions and composition. At high boron and aluminum content, that is, x = 0, a Eu 2+ 5d-4f emission is observed of which the maximum shifts from 595 nm for low Eu concentrations (y = 0.005) toward 623 nm for high Eu concentrations (y = 0.5). The samples can be excited by UV or blue light up to ∼475 nm. Substitution of [B 2 Al] 9+ units by [Si 3 N] 9+ units, increasing x up to 0.15, greatly improves the luminescence efficiency up to 46% and shows a very large redshift of the excitation bands with ∼100 nm, while the emission band shifts with ∼10 nm. The shifts are attributed to the lowering of the 5d level as a result of the decreased Eu-N distance upon substitution. Temperature-dependent measurements show that the Eu 2+ 5d-4f emission is largely thermally quenched at room temperature for x = 0 due to thermal ionization toward the conduction band, explaining the low luminescence efficiency. The lowering of the 5d level at larger values of x reduces the thermal ionization and consequently increases the thermal stability and quantum efficiency, resulting in strongly luminescent blue-to-orange conversion phosphors that are interesting for light-emitting diode applications.

Tunable White-Light Emission in Single-Cation-Templated Three-Layered 2D Perovskites (CH 3 CH 2 NH 3 ) 4 Pb 3 Br 10–x Cl x

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mao, Lingling; Wu, Yilei; Stoumpos, Constantinos C.

Two-dimensional (2D) hybrid halide perovskites come as a family (B) 2(A) n-1PbnX 3n+1 (B and A= cations; X= halide). These perovskites are promising semiconductors for solar cells and optoelectronic applications. Among the fascinating properties of these materials is white-light emission, which has been mostly observed in single-layered 2D lead bromide or chloride systems (n = 1), where the broad emission comes from the transient photoexcited states generated by self-trapped excitons (STEs) from structural distortion. Here we report a multilayered 2D perovskite (n = 3) exhibiting a tunable white-light emission. Ethylammonium (EA+) can stabilize the 2D perovskite structure in EA 4Pbmore » 3Br 10–xCl x (x = 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9.5, and 10) with EA + being both the A and B cations in this system. Because of the larger size of EA, these materials show a high distortion level in their inorganic structures, with EA4Pb3Cl10 having a much larger distortion than that of EA 4Pb 3Br 10, which results in broadband white-light emission of EA 4Pb 3Cl 10 in contrast to narrow blue emission of EA4Pb3Br10. The average lifetime of the series decreases gradually from the Cl end to the Br end, indicating that the larger distortion also prolongs the lifetime (more STE states). The band gap of EA 4Pb 3Br 10–xCl x ranges from 3.45 eV (x = 10) to 2.75 eV (x = 0), following Vegard’s law. First-principles density functional theory calculations (DFT) show that both EA 4Pb 3Cl 10 and EA 4Pb 3Br 10 are direct band gap semiconductors. The color rendering index (CRI) of the series improves from 66 (EA 4Pb 3Cl 10) to 83 (EA 4Pb 3Br 0.5Cl 9.5), displaying high tunability and versatility of the title compounds.« less

Chalcogen- and halogen-bonds involving SX2 (X = F, Cl, and Br) with formaldehyde.

PubMed

Mo, Lixin; Zeng, Yanli; Li, Xiaoyan; Zhang, Xueying; Meng, Lingpeng

2016-07-01

The capacity of SX2 (X = F, Cl, and Br) to engage in different kinds of noncovalent bonds was investigated by ab initio calculations. SCl2 (SBr2) has two σ-holes upon extension of Cl (Br)-S bonds, and two σ-holes upon extension of S-Cl (Br) bonds. SF2 contains only two σ-holes upon extension of the F-S bond. Consequently, SCl2 and SBr2 form chalcogen and halogen bonds with the electron donor H2CO while SF2 forms only a chalcogen bond, i.e., no F···O halogen bond was found in the SF2:H2CO complex. The S···O chalcogen bond between SF2 and H2CO is the strongest, while the strongest halogen bond is Br···O between SBr2 and H2CO. The nature of these two types of noncovalent interaction was probed by a variety of methods, including molecular electrostatic potentials, QTAIM, energy decomposition, and electron density shift maps. Termolecular complexes X2S···H2CO···SX'2 (X = F, Cl, Br, and X' = Cl, Br) were constructed to study the interplay between chalcogen bonds and halogen bonds. All these complexes contained S···O and Cl (Br)···O bonds, with longer intermolecular distances, smaller values of electron density, and more positive three-body interaction energies, indicating negative cooperativity between the chalcogen bond and the halogen bond. In addition, for all complexes studied, interactions involving chalcogen bonds were more favorable than those involving halogen bonds. Graphical Abstract Molecular electrostatic potential and contour map of the Laplacian of the electron density in Cl2S···H2CO···SCl2 complex.

An ab initio/Rice-Ramsperger-Kassel-Marcus study of the hydrogen-abstraction reactions of methyl ethers, H(3)COCH(3-x)(CH(3))(x), x = 0-2, by OH; mechanism and kinetics.

PubMed

Zhou, Chong-Wen; Simmie, John M; Curran, Henry J

2010-07-14

A theoretical study of the mechanism and kinetics of the H-abstraction reaction from dimethyl (DME), ethylmethyl (EME) and iso-propylmethyl (IPME) ethers by the OH radical has been carried out using the high-level methods CCSD(T)/CBS, G3 and G3MP2BH&H. The computationally less-expensive methods of G3 and G3MP2BH&H yield results for DME within 0.2-0.6 and 0.7-0.9 kcal mol(-1), respectively, of the coupled cluster, CCSD(T), values extrapolated to the basis set limit. So the G3 and G3MP2BH&H methods can be confidently used for the reactions of the higher ethers. A distinction is made between the two different kinds of H-atoms, classified as in/out-of the symmetry plane, and it is found that abstraction from the out-of-plane H-atoms proceeds through a stepwise mechanism involving the formation of a reactant complex in the entrance channel and product complex in the exit channel. The in-plane H-atom abstractions take place through a more direct mechanism and are less competitive. Rate constants of the three reactions have been calculated in the temperature range of 500-3000 K using the Variflex code, based on the weak collision, master equation/microcanonical variational RRKM theory including tunneling corrections. The computed total rate constants (cm(3) mol(-1) s(-1)) have been fitted as follows: k(DME) = 2.74 xT(3.94) exp (1534.2/T), k(EME) = 20.93 xT(3.61) exp (2060.1/T) and k(IPME) = 0.55 xT(3.93) exp (2826.1/T). Expressions of the group rate constants for the three different carbon sites are also provided.

Transition metal complexes of 2-amino-3,5-dihalopyridines: Syntheses, structures and magnetic properties of (3,5-diCAPH)2CuX4 and (3,5-diBAPH)2CuX4.

PubMed

Tremelling, Grant W; Foxman, Bruce M; Landee, Christopher P; Turnbull, Mark M; Willett, Roger D

2009-12-21

A family of bis(2-amino-3,5-dihalopyridinium)tetrahalocuprate(II) compounds has been synthesized, including (3,5-diCAPH)2CuCl4 (1), (3,5-diCAPH)2CuBr4 (2), (3,5-diBAPH)2CuCl4 (3), and (3,5-diBAPH)2CuBr4 (4) [3,5-diCAPH = 2-amino-3,5-dichloropyridinium; 3,5-diBAPH = 2-amino-3,5-dibromopyridinium]. These complexes have been analyzed through single crystal X-ray diffraction and temperature dependent magnetic susceptibility. Compound 1 crystallizes in the P-1 space group and the tetrachlorocuprate ion is best described as possessing a distorted square planar geometry. Compounds 2-4 are structurally similar and crystallized in the P2(1)/n, P2(1)/c, and P2(1)/n space groups respectively. The tetrahalocuprate ions are best described as distorted tetrahedra. All four compounds show antiferromagnetic interactions and were fit to the uniform chain Heisenberg model with resulting 2J/kB values of -11.71(2) K, -2.21(1) K, -12.43 (2) K, and -1.36(1) K, respectively. The exchange values correlate well with the two-halide exchange pathway parameters. The unusual observation that the chloride complexes show stronger magnetic exchange than the bromide complexes provides strong support that the exchange can be strongly dependent upon the Cu-X...X angles and Cu-X...X-Cu torsion angles.

The X11L/X11{beta}/MINT2 and X11L2/X11{gamma}/MINT3 scaffold proteins shuttle between the nucleus and cytoplasm

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sumioka, Akio; Saito, Yuhki; Sakuma, Megumi

2008-03-10

The X11/MINT family proteins are adaptor scaffolding proteins involved in formation of multiprotein complexes, and trafficking and metabolism of membrane proteins such as the beta-amyloid precursor protein. We found that a significant portion of X11L and X11L2 are recovered in nuclear fraction of mouse brain homogenates. EGFP-X11s were not detected in the nucleus of N2a neuroblastoma cells; however, administration of leptomycin B (LMB) induced substantial nuclear accumulation of EGFP-X11L and EGFP-X11L2, while EGFP-X11 showed little accumulation. Fluorescence loss in photobleaching (FLIP) analysis indicated that EGFP-X11L2 and EGFP-X11L are shuttled between the cytoplasm and nucleus, the former more effectively than themore » latter. We identified a nuclear export signal (NES) in the N-terminus of X11L2, mutation of which induces nuclear accumulation of EGFP-X11L2 in the absence of LMB. X11L2 fused to the Gal4 DNA binding domain (DBD) showed transcriptional activity, suggesting that X11L2 could function as a transcriptional activator if tethered near a promoter. Interestingly, attenuation of the nucleo-cytoplasmic shuttling of GAL4-DBD-X11L2 by mutating the NES or attaching the SV40 nuclear localization signal significantly decreased the apparent transcriptional activity. Our observations suggest that X11L2 functions in the nucleus by a mechanism distinct from conventional transactivators.« less

Long-range ordering in the Bi 1-xAe xFeO 3-x/2 perovskites: Bi 1/3Sr 2/3FeO 2.67 and Bi 1/2Ca 1/2FeO 2.75

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lepoittevin, C.; Malo, S.; Barrier, N.; Nguyen, N.; Van Tendeloo, G.; Hervieu, M.

2008-10-01

Two-ordered perovskites, Bi 1/3Sr 2/3FeO 2.67 and Bi 1/2Ca 1/2FeO 2.75, have been stabilized and characterized by transmission electron microscopy, Mössbauer spectroscopy and X-ray powder diffraction techniques. They both exhibit orthorhombic superstructures, one with a≈ b≈2 ap and c≈3 ap (S.G.: Pb2 n or Pbmn) for the Sr-based compound and one with a≈ b≈2 ap and c≈8 ap (S.G.: B222, Bmm2, B2 mm or Bmmm) for the Ca-based one. The high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) images evidence the existence of one deficient [FeO x] ∞ layer, suggesting that Bi 1/3Sr 2/3FeO 2.67 and Bi 1/2Ca 1/2FeO 2.75 behave differently compared to their Ln-based homolog. The HAADF-STEM images allow to propose a model of cation ordering on the A sites of the perovskite. The Mössbauer analyses confirm the trivalent state of iron and its complex environment with three types of coordination. Both compounds exhibit a high value of resistivity and the inverse molar susceptibility versus temperature curves evidence a magnetic transition at about 730 K for the Bi 1/3Sr 2/3FeO 2.67 and a smooth reversible transition between 590 and 650 K for Bi 1/2Ca 1/2FeO 2.75.

78 FR 79423 - Energy Efficiency Program for Industrial Equipment: Petition of CSA Group for Classification as a...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-12-30

.... Evaluation and Testing CSA Group with the manufacturer's assistance prepares a motor control list...-0053] Energy Efficiency Program for Industrial Equipment: Petition of CSA Group for Classification as a...: This notice announces receipt of a petition from CSA Group (CSA) seeking classification as a nationally...

A solid solution series of atacamite type Ni{sub 2x}Mg{sub 2−2x}Cl(OH){sub 3}

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bette, Sebastian; Dinnebier, Robert E.; Röder, Christian

2015-08-15

For the first time a complete solid solution series Ni{sub 2x}Mg{sub 2−2x}Cl(OH){sub 3} of an atacamite type alkaline main group metal chloride, Mg{sub 2}Cl(OH){sub 3}, and a transition group metal chloride, Ni{sub 2}Cl(OH){sub 3}, was prepared and characterized by chemical and thermal analysis as well as by Raman and IR spectroscopy, and high resolution laboratory X-ray powder diffraction. All members of the solid solution series crystallize in space group Pnam (62). The main building units of these crystal structures are distorted, edge-linked Ni/MgO{sub 4}Cl{sub 2} and Ni/MgO{sub 5}Cl octahedra. The distribution of Ni{sup 2+}- and Mg{sup 2+}-ions among these twomore » metal-sites within the solid solution series is discussed in detail. The crystallization of the solid solution phases occurs via an intermediate solid solution series, (Ni/Mg)Cl{sub 2x}(OH){sub 2−2x}, with variable Cl: OH ratio up to the 1:3 ratio according to the formula Ni{sub 2x}Mg{sub 2−2x} Cl(OH){sub 3}. For one isolated intermediate solid solution member, Ni{sub 0.70}Mg{sub 0.30}Cl{sub 0.58}(OH){sub 1.42}, the formation and crystal structure is presented as well. - Graphical abstract: For the first time a complete solid solution series, Ni{sub 2x}Mg{sub 2−2x} Cl(OH){sub 3}, was synthesized and characterized. Structure solution by revealed that Ni{sup 2+} prefers to occupy the Jahn–Teller-like distorted hole, out of two available cation sites. Substitution of Ni{sup 2+} by Mg{sup 2+} in atacamite type Ni{sub 2}Cl(OH){sub 3} results in systematic band shifts in Raman and IR spectra as well as in systematic changes in thermal properties. The α-polymorphs M{sub 2}Cl(OH){sub 3} with M=Mg{sup 2+}, Ni{sup 2+} and other divalent transition metal ions, as described in literature, were identified as separate compounds. - Highlights: • First synthesis of solid solution series between main and transition metal chloride. • Ni{sup 2+} prefers to occupy Jahn–Teller-like distorted

Synthesis and morphology of Ba1-xRE2x/3Nb2O6 nanocrystals with tungsten bronze structure in RE2O3-BaO-Nb2O5-B2O3 glasses (RE: Sm, Eu, Gd, Dy, Er)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ida, H.; Shinozaki, K.; Honma, T.; Oh-ishi, K.; Komatsu, T.

2012-12-01

Ba1-xRE2x/3Nb2O6 nanocrystals with a tetragonal tungsten bronze (TTB) structure are synthesized using a conventional glass crystallization technique in 2.3RE2O3-27.4BaO-34.3Nb2O5-36B2O3 (mol%) (RE=Sm, Eu, Gd, Dy, and Er) glasses. One sharp crystallization peak is observed at ∼670 °C in both powdered and bulk glasses, and the formation of Ba1-xRE2x/3Nb2O6 nanocrystals with unit cell parameters of a∼1.24 nm and c∼0.39 nm was confirmed. It is found from high resolution transmission electron microscope observations that the morphology of Ba1-xRE2x/3Nb2O6 nanocrystals is ellipsoidal. Their average particle size is in the range of 15-60 nm and decreases with decreasing ionic radius of RE3+ being present in the precursor glasses. The optical transparent crystallized glass (bulk) shows the total photoluminescence (PL) quantum yield of 53% in the visible region of Eu3+ ions, suggesting a high potential of Ba1-xRE2x/3Nb2O6 nanocrystals as PL materials.

Characterization of ZrO2 and (ZrO2)x(Al2O3)1-X thin films on Si substrates: effect of the Al2O3 component

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vitanov, P.; Harizanova, A.; Ivanova, T.

2014-05-01

ZrO2 and (ZrO2)x(Al2O3)1-x films were deposited by the sol-gel technique on Si substrates. The effect of the Al2O3 additive on the film surface morphology was studied by atomic force microscopy (AFM). The mixed oxide films showed a smoother morphology and lower values of the root-mean-square (RMS) roughness compared to ZrO2. Further, FTIR spectra indicated that ZrO2 underwent crystallization. The electrical measurements of the MIS structure revealed that the presence of Al2O3 and the amorphization affects its dielectric properties. The MIS structure with (ZrO2)x(Al2O3)1-x showed a lower fixed charge (~ 6×1010 cm-2) and an interface state density in the middle of the band gap of 6×1011 eV-1 cm-2). The dielectric constant measured was 22, with the leakage current density decreasing to 2×10-8 A cm-2 at 1×106 V cm-1.

Continuous In Situ Measurements of Near Bottom Chemistry and Sediment-Water Fluxes with the Chimney Sampler Array (CSA)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martens, C. S.; Mendlovitz, H. P.; White, B. L.; Hoer, D.; Sleeper, K.; Chanton, J.; Wilson, R.; Lapham, L.

2011-12-01

The Chimney Sampler Array (CSA) was designed to measure in situ chemical and physical parameters within the benthic boundary layer plus methane and oxygen sediment-water chemical fluxes at upper slope sites in the northern Gulf of Mexico. The CSA can monitor temporal changes plus help to evaluate oceanographic and sub-seafloor processes that can influence the formation and stability of gas hydrates in underlying sediments. The CSA consists of vertical cylinders (chimneys) equipped with internal chemical sensors and with laboratory flume-calibrated washout rates. Chimney washout rates multiplied by chimney mean versus ambient concentrations allow calculation of net O2 and methane sediment-water fluxes. The CSA is emplaced on the seafloor by a ROVARD lander using a ROV for chimney deployments. The CSA presently includes two 30 cm diameter by 90 cm length cylinders that seal against the sediment with lead pellet beanbags; within each chimney cylinder are optode, conductivity and methane sensors. The CSA's data logger platform also includes pressure and turbidity sensors external to the chimneys along with an acoustic Doppler current meter to measure temporal variation in ambient current velocity and direction. The CSA was deployed aboard a ROVARD lander on 9/13/2010 in the northern Gulf of Mexico (Lat. 28 51.28440, Long. 088 29.39421) on biogeochemically active sediments within Block MC-118. A ROV was utilized for chimney deployment away from the ROVARD lander. The CSA monitored temporal changes in water column physical parameters, obtained near-bottom chemical data to compare with pore fluid and sediment core measurements and measured temporal variability in oxygen and methane sediment-water fluxes at two closely spaced stations at MC-118. A continuous, three-week data set was obtained that revealed daily cycles in chemical parameters and episodic flux events. Lower than ambient chimney dissolved O2 concentrations controlled by temporal variability in washout rates

KIAA1530 Protein Is Recruited by Cockayne Syndrome Complementation Group Protein A (CSA) to Participate in Transcription-coupled Repair (TCR)

PubMed Central

Fei, Jia; Chen, Junjie

2012-01-01

Transcription-coupled repair (TCR) is the major pathway involved in the removal of UV-induced photolesions from the transcribed strand of active genes. Two Cockayne syndrome (CS) complementation group proteins, CSA and CSB, are important for TCR repair. The molecular mechanisms by which CS proteins regulate TCR remain elusive. Here, we report the characterization of KIAA1530, an evolutionarily conserved protein that participates in this pathway through its interaction with CSA and the TFIIH complex. We found that UV irradiation led to the recruitment of KIAA1530 onto chromatin in a CSA-dependent manner. Cells lacking KIAA1530 were highly sensitive to UV irradiation and displayed deficiency in TCR. In addition, KIAA1530 depletion abrogated stability of the CSB protein following UV irradiation. More excitingly, we found that a unique CSA mutant (W361C), which was previously identified in a patient with UVsS syndrome, showed defective KIAA1530 binding and resulted in a failure of recruiting KIAA1530 and stabilizing CSB after UV treatment. Together, our data not only reveal that KIAA1530 is an important player in TCR but also lead to a better understanding of the molecular mechanism underlying UVsS syndrome. PMID:22902626

Subunit arrangement in P2X receptors.

PubMed

Jiang, Lin-Hua; Kim, Miran; Spelta, Valeria; Bo, Xuenong; Surprenant, Annmarie; North, R Alan

2003-10-01

ATP-gated ionotropic receptors (P2X receptors) are distributed widely in the nervous system. For example, a hetero-oligomeric receptor containing both P2X2 and P2X3 subunits is involved in primary afferent sensation. Each subunit has two membrane-spanning domains. We have used disulfide bond formation between engineered cysteines to demonstrate close proximity between the outer ends of the first transmembrane domain of one subunit and the second transmembrane domain of another. After expression in HEK 293 cells of such modified P2X2 or P2X4 subunits, the disulfide bond formation is evident because an ATP-evoked channel opening requires previous reduction with dithiothreitol. In the hetero-oligomeric P2X2/3 receptor the coexpression of doubly substituted subunits with wild-type partners allows us to deduce that the hetero-oligomeric channel contains adjacent P2X3 subunits but does not contain adjacent P2X2 subunits. The results suggest a "head-to-tail" subunit arrangement in the quaternary structure of P2X receptors and show that a trimeric P2X2/3 receptor would have the composition P2X2(P2X3)2.

Synthesis and characterization of (1-x)Bi(Mg{sub 2/3}Sb{sub 1/3})O{sub 3}-xPbTiO{sub 3} piezoceramics

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Upadhyay, Ashutosh; Dwivedi, Saurabh; Pandey, Rishikesh

2016-05-23

We present here the comprehensive x-ray diffraction and polarization-electric field hysteresis studies on (1-x)Bi(Mg{sub 2/3}Sb{sub 1/3})O{sub 3}-xPbTiO{sub 3} piezoceramics with x = 0.52, 0.56 and 0.60. The powder x-ray diffraction data reveals the presence of tetragonal phase for all the compositions. The saturation of hysteresis loop is observed for x ≤ 0.56.

2. Photocopy of old 2 1/8' X 3' photograph by ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

2. Photocopy of old 2 1/8' X 3' photograph by F. Gutekunst mounted on 2 3/8' X 4' card marked in script on rear: 'Bought at the Sanitary Fair Phila June 8th 1864'. Also printed on rear: 'F. Gutekunst, photographer 704 & 706 Arch St Philadelphia'. Photocopied by Jack E. Boucher in November 1959. - Union League of Philadelphia, 140 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, PA

Mechanism of single metal exchange in the reactions of [M4(SPh)10]2- (M = Zn or Fe) with CoX2 (X = Cl or NO3) or FeCl2.

PubMed

Autissier, Valerie; Henderson, Richard A

2008-07-21

The kinetics of the reactions between [Zn4(SPh)10](2-) and an excess of MX2 (M = Co, X = NO3 or Cl; M = Fe, X = Cl), in which a Zn(II) is replaced by M(II), have been studied in MeCN at 25.0 degrees C. (1)H NMR spectroscopy shows that the ultimate product of the reactions is an equilibrium mixture of clusters of composition [Zn(n)M(4-n)(SPh)10](2-), and this is reflected in the multiphasic absorbance-time curves observed over protracted times (several minutes) using stopped-flow spectrophotometry to study the reactions. The kinetics of only the first phase have been determined, corresponding to the equilibrium formation of [Zn3M(SPh)10](2-). The effects of varying the concentrations of cluster, MX2, and ZnCl2 on the kinetics have been investigated. The rate law is consistent with the equilibrium nature of the metal exchange process and indicates a mechanism for the formation of [Zn3M(SPh)10](2-) involving two coupled equilibria. In the initial step binding of MX2 to a bridging thiolate in [Zn4(SPh)10](2-) results in breaking of a Zn-bridging thiolate bond. In the second step replacement of the cluster Zn involves transfer of the bridging thiolates from the Zn to M, with breaking of a Zn-bridged thiolate bond being rate-limiting. The kinetics for the reaction of ZnCl2 with [Zn3M(SPh)10](2-) (M = Fe or Co)} depends on the identity of M. This behavior indicates attack of ZnCl2 at a M-mu-SPh-Zn bridged thiolate. Similar studies on the analogous reactions between [Fe4(SPh)10](2-) and an excess of CoX2 (X = NO3 or Cl) in MeCN exhibit simpler kinetics but these are also consistent with the same mechanism.

Luminescence and scintillation characteristics of (GdxY3-x)Al2Ga3O12:Ce (x = 1,2,3) single crystals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chewpraditkul, Warut; Pattanaboonmee, Nakarin; Sakthong, Ongsa; Chewpraditkul, Weerapong; Szczesniak, Tomasz; Moszynski, Marek; Kamada, Kei; Yoshikawa, Akira; Nikl, Martin

2018-02-01

The luminescence and scintillation characteristics of Czochralski-grown (GdxY3-x)Al2Ga3O12:Ce (x = 1,2,3) single crystals are presented. With increasing Gd content in this garnet host, the 5d2 absorption band was blue-shifted while the 5d1 absorption and 5d1 → 4f emission bands were red-shifted due to an increase in the crystal field splitting of the 5d levels. In addition, the luminescence quenching temperature of the Ce3+emission and activation energy for thermal quenching decreased with increasing Gd content. The Gd3+ → Ce3+ energy transfer was evidenced by photoluminescence excitation spectra of Ce3+ emission. At 662 keV γ - rays, the light yield (LY) of 48,600 ph/MeV and energy resolution of 6.5% was measured for a Gd3Al2Ga3O12:Ce crystal. Scintillation decay measurements were performed using the time-correlated single photon counting technique. Superior time resolution of Gd3Al2Ga3O12:Ce is due to its high LY and fast scintillation response. The total mass attenuation coefficients at 60 and 662 keV γ - rays were also determined.

Evaluation of band alignment of α-Ga2O3/α-(Al x Ga1‑ x )2O3 heterostructures by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Uchida, Takayuki; Jinno, Riena; Takemoto, Shu; Kaneko, Kentaro; Fujita, Shizuo

2018-04-01

The band alignment at an α-Ga2O3/α-(Al x Ga1‑ x )2O3 heterointerface, with different Al compositions (x), grown on a c-plane sapphire substrate was evaluated by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The experimental results show that the heterointerface has the type-I band discontinuity with the valence band offsets of 0.090, 0.12, and 0.14 eV, and the conduction band offsets of 0.34, 0.79, and 1.87 eV, for x values of 0.1, 0.4, and 0.8, respectively. The small band offset for the valence band is attributed to the fact that the valence band of oxides is constituted by the localized O 2p level, which is dominated by the nature of oxygen atoms. The type-I band discontinuity is desirable for a variety of heterostructure devices.

Enhancement of the physical properties of novel (1- x) NiFe2O4 + ( x) Al2O3 nanocomposite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mansour, S. F.; Ahmed, M. A.; El-Dek, S. I.; Abdo, M. A.; Kora, H. H.

2017-07-01

NiFe2O4, Al2O3 and their nanocomposites; (1- x) NiFe2O4 + ( x) Al2O3, 0.0 ≤ x ≤ 1; were synthesized using the citrate-nitrate technique. The crystal structure was examined by X-ray diffraction, the microstructure was observed by transmission electron microscopy. The Curie temperature T C grows until reaching more than 1100 K with increasing alumina content ( x), while the saturation magnetization ( M s) decreased. The large improvement of room temperature resistivity which achieved two orders of magnitude from x = 0 to x = 70% was interpreted from the fact that the NiFe2O4 grains become electrically isolated and the conduction path is broken by the insulating Al2O3 nanoparticulates in the composite. The electrical properties of the nanocomposite could thus be tuned easily by adjusting the Al2O3 ratio to realize the targeted value of losses and resistivity at any temperature and frequency.

Dielectric properties and phase transition behaviors in (1-x)PbZrO3-xPb(Mg1/2W1/2)O3 ceramics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vittayakorn, Naratip; Charoonsuk, Piyanut; Kasiansin, Panisara; Wirunchit, Supamas; Boonchom, Banjong

2009-09-01

The solid solution of lead zirconate [PbZrO3 (PZ)] and lead magnesium tungstate [Pb(Mg1/2W1/2)O3 (PMW)] has been synthesized by the wolframite precursor method. The crystal structure, phase transformations, dielectric and thermal properties of (1-x)PZ-xPMW, where x =0.00-0.10, were investigated. The crystal structure of sintered ceramics was analyzed by x-ray diffraction. Phase-pure perovskite was obtained for all compositions. Furthermore, a change from orthorhombic to rhombohedral symmetry was observed as the mole fraction of increased PMW. As a result, it was found that PbZrO3-Pb(Mg1/2W1/2)O3 undergoes successive transitions from the antiferroelectric phase to the ferroelectric phase to the paraelectric state. The coexistence of orthorhombic and rhombohedral phases in this binary system is located near the composition x =0.1.

CRISPR-Cas type I-A Cascade complex couples viral infection surveillance to host transcriptional regulation in the dependence of Csa3b

PubMed Central

He, Fei; Vestergaard, Gisle; Peng, Wenfang; She, Qunxin

2017-01-01

Abstract CRISPR-Cas (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats and the associated genes) constitute adaptive immune systems in bacteria and archaea and they provide sequence specific immunity against foreign nucleic acids. CRISPR-Cas systems are activated by viral infection. However, little is known about how CRISPR-Cas systems are activated in response to viral infection or how their expression is controlled in the absence of viral infection. Here, we demonstrate that both the transcriptional regulator Csa3b, and the type I-A interference complex Cascade, are required to transcriptionally repress the interference gene cassette in the archaeon Sulfolobus. Csa3b binds to two palindromic repeat sites in the promoter region of the cassette and facilitates binding of the Cascade to the promoter region. Upon viral infection, loading of Cascade complexes onto crRNA-matching protospacers leads to relief of the transcriptional repression. Our data demonstrate a mechanism coupling CRISPR-Cas surveillance of protospacers to transcriptional regulation of the interference gene cassette thereby allowing a fast response to viral infection. PMID:27980065

Volvalerelactones A and B, two new sesquiterpenoid lactones with an unprecedented skeleton from Valeriana officinalis var. latifolia.

PubMed

Wang, Peng-Cheng; Ran, Xin-Hui; Luo, Huai-Rong; Hu, Jiang-Miao; Chen, Rui; Ma, Qing-Yun; Dai, Hao-Fu; Liu, Yu-Qing; Xie, Ming-Jin; Zhou, Jun; Zhao, You-Xing

2011-06-17

Volvalerelactones A and B (1 and 2), two new sesquiterpenoid lactones with an unprecedented 3/7/6 tricyclic ring system, were isolated from the roots of Valeriana officinalis var. latifolia. Their structures and relative configurations were elucidated by spectroscopic data and single-crystal X-ray diffraction crystallography, and the absolute configuration was assigned by computational methods. The possible biosynthetic pathways of 1 and 2 were also proposed. © 2011 American Chemical Society

sl2-x3-205

NASA Image and Video Library

2013-09-10

SL2-X3-205 (June 1973) --- Scientist-astronaut Joseph P. Kerwin, Skylab 2 science pilot, is photographed strapped into the sleep restraint in the crew quarters of the Orbital Workshop of the Skylab 1 & 2 space station cluster in Earth orbit. Kerwin is wearing the special cap which contains biomedical instrumentation for the M133 Sleep Monitoring Experiment. The purpose of the M133 experiment is to evaluate quantity and quality of sleep during prolonged space flight by the analysis of electroencephalographic (EEG) and electrooculographic (EOG) activity. Photo credit: NASA

Data Assimilation of Lightning using 1D+3D/4D WRF Var Assimilation Schemes with Non-Linear Observation Operators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Navon, M. I.; Stefanescu, R.; Fuelberg, H. E.; Marchand, M.

2012-12-01

NASA's launch of the GOES-R Lightning Mapper (GLM) in 2015 will provide continuous, full disc, high resolution total lightning (IC + CG) data. The data will be available at a horizontal resolution of approximately 9 km. Compared to other types of data, the assimilation of lightning data into operational numerical models has received relatively little attention. Previous efforts of lightning assimilation mostly have employed nudging. This paper will describe the implementation of 1D+3D/4D Var assimilation schemes of existing ground-based WTLN (Worldwide Total Lightning Network) lightning observations using non-linear observation operators in the incremental WRFDA system. To mimic the expected output of GLM, the WTLN data were used to generate lightning super-observations characterized by flash rates/81 km2/20 min. A major difficulty associated with variational approaches is the complexity of the observation operator that defines the model equivalent of lightning. We use Convective Available Potential Energy (CAPE) as a proxy between lightning data and model variables. This operator is highly nonlinear. Marecal and Mahfouf (2003) have shown that nonlinearities can prevent direct assimilation of rainfall rates in the ECMWF 4D-VAR (using the incremental formulation proposed by Courtier et al. (1994)) from being successful. Using data from the 2011 Tuscaloosa, AL tornado outbreak, we have proved that the direct assimilation of lightning data into the WRF 3D/4D - Var systems is limited due to this incremental approach. Severe threshold limits must be imposed on the innovation vectors to obtain an improved analysis. We have implemented 1D+3D/4D Var schemes to assimilate lightning observations into the WRF model. Their use avoids innovation vector constrains from preventing the inclusion of a greater number of lightning observations Their use also minimizes the problem that nonlinearities in the moist convective scheme can introduce discontinuities in the cost function

Cucumis melo ssp. Agrestis var. Agrestis Ameliorates High Fat Diet Induced Dyslipidemia in Syrian Golden Hamsters and Inhibits Adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes.

PubMed

Shankar, Kripa; Singh, Sumit K; Kumar, Durgesh; Varshney, Salil; Gupta, Abhishek; Rajan, Sujith; Srivastava, Ankita; Beg, Muheeb; Srivastava, Anurag Kumar; Kanojiya, Sanjeev; Mishra, Dipak K; Gaikwad, Anil N

2015-10-01

Cucumis melo ssp. agrestis var. agrestis (CMA) is a wild variety of C. melo. This study aimed to explore anti-dyslipidemic and anti-adipogenic potential of CMA. For initial anti-dyslipidemic and antihyperglycemic potential of CMA fruit extract (CMFE), male Syrian golden hamsters were fed a chow or high-fat diet with or without CMFE (100 mg/kg). Further, we did fractionation of this CMFE into two fractions namely; CMA water fraction (CMWF) and CMA hexane fraction (CMHF). Phytochemical screening was done with liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry LC- (MS)/MS and direct analysis in real time-MS to detect active compounds in the fractions. Further, high-fat diet fed dyslipidemic hamsters were treated with CMWF and CMHF at 50 mg/kg for 7 days. Oral administration of CMFE and both fractions (CMWF and CMHF) reduced the total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and very low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels in high fat diet-fed dyslipidemic hamsters. CMHF also modulated expression of genes involved in lipogenesis, lipid metabolism, and reverse cholesterol transport. Standard biochemical diagnostic tests suggested that neither of fractions causes any toxicity to hamster liver or kidneys. CMFE and CMHF also decreased oil-red-O accumulation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Based on these results, it is concluded that CMA possesses anti-dyslipidemic and anti-hyperglycemic activity along with the anti-adipogenic activity. The oral administration of Cucumis melo agrestis fruit extract (CMFE) and its fractions (CMWF and CMHF) improved serum lipid profile in HFD fed dyslipidemic hamsters.CMFE, CMWF and CMHF significantly attenuated body weight gain and eWAT hypertrophy.The CMHF decreased lipogenesis in both liver and adipose tissue.CMFE and CMHF also inhibited adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Abbreviation used: CMA: Cucumis melo ssp. agrestis var. agrestis, CMFE: CMA fruit extract, CMWF: CMA water fraction, CMHF: CMA hexane fraction, FAS: Fatty acid

Cucumis melo ssp. Agrestis var. Agrestis Ameliorates High Fat Diet Induced Dyslipidemia in Syrian Golden Hamsters and Inhibits Adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes

PubMed Central

Shankar, Kripa; Singh, Sumit K.; Kumar, Durgesh; Varshney, Salil; Gupta, Abhishek; Rajan, Sujith; Srivastava, Ankita; Beg, Muheeb; Srivastava, Anurag Kumar; Kanojiya, Sanjeev; Mishra, Dipak K.; Gaikwad, Anil N.

2015-01-01

Background: Cucumis melo ssp. agrestis var. agrestis (CMA) is a wild variety of C. melo. This study aimed to explore anti-dyslipidemic and anti-adipogenic potential of CMA. Materials and Methods: For initial anti-dyslipidemic and antihyperglycemic potential of CMA fruit extract (CMFE), male Syrian golden hamsters were fed a chow or high-fat diet with or without CMFE (100 mg/kg). Further, we did fractionation of this CMFE into two fractions namely; CMA water fraction (CMWF) and CMA hexane fraction (CMHF). Phytochemical screening was done with liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry LC- (MS)/MS and direct analysis in real time-MS to detect active compounds in the fractions. Further, high-fat diet fed dyslipidemic hamsters were treated with CMWF and CMHF at 50 mg/kg for 7 days. Results: Oral administration of CMFE and both fractions (CMWF and CMHF) reduced the total cholesterol, triglycerides, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, and very low‐density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels in high fat diet-fed dyslipidemic hamsters. CMHF also modulated expression of genes involved in lipogenesis, lipid metabolism, and reverse cholesterol transport. Standard biochemical diagnostic tests suggested that neither of fractions causes any toxicity to hamster liver or kidneys. CMFE and CMHF also decreased oil-red-O accumulation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Conclusion: Based on these results, it is concluded that CMA possesses anti-dyslipidemic and anti-hyperglycemic activity along with the anti-adipogenic activity. SUMMARY The oral administration of Cucumis melo agrestis fruit extract (CMFE) and its fractions (CMWF and CMHF) improved serum lipid profile in HFD fed dyslipidemic hamsters.CMFE, CMWF and CMHF significantly attenuated body weight gain and eWAT hypertrophy.The CMHF decreased lipogenesis in both liver and adipose tissue.CMFE and CMHF also inhibited adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Abbreviation used: CMA: Cucumis melo ssp. agrestis var. agrestis, CMFE: CMA fruit extract, CMWF

Epitaxial growth and properties of YBa2Cu3O(x)-Pb(Zr(0.6)Ti(0.4))O3-YBa2Cu3O(x) trilayer structure by laser ablation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boikov, Iu. A.; Esaian, S. K.; Ivanov, Z. G.; Brorsson, G.; Claeson, T.; Lee, J.; Safari, A.

1992-08-01

YBa2Cu3O(x)Pb(Zr(0.6)Ti(0.4))O3-YBa2Cu3O(x) multilayer structure has been grown on SrTiO3 and Al2O3 substrates using laser ablation. The deposition conditions for the growth of trilayers and their properties are studied in this investigation. Scanning electron microscope images and X-ray diffraction analyses indicate that all the constituent films in the trilayer grow epitaxially on SrTiO3 and were highly oriented on Al2O3. Transport measurements on these multilayers show that top YBa2Cu3O(x) films have good superconducting properties.

Sn Cation Valency Dependence in Cation Exchange Reactions Involving Cu2-xSe Nanocrystals

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

We studied cation exchange reactions in colloidal Cu2-xSe nanocrystals (NCs) involving the replacement of Cu+ cations with either Sn2+ or Sn4+ cations. This is a model system in several aspects: first, the +2 and +4 oxidation states for tin are relatively stable; in addition, the phase of the Cu2-xSe NCs remains cubic regardless of the degree of copper deficiency (that is, “x”) in the NC lattice. Also, Sn4+ ions are comparable in size to the Cu+ ions, while Sn2+ ones are much larger. We show here that the valency of the entering Sn ions dictates the structure and composition not only of the final products but also of the intermediate steps of the exchange. When Sn4+ cations are used, alloyed Cu2–4ySnySe NCs (with y ≤ 0.33) are formed as intermediates, with almost no distortion of the anion framework, apart from a small contraction. In this exchange reaction the final stoichiometry of the NCs cannot go beyond Cu0.66Sn0.33Se (that is Cu2SnSe3), as any further replacement of Cu+ cations with Sn4+ cations would require a drastic reorganization of the anion framework, which is not possible at the reaction conditions of the experiments. When instead Sn2+ cations are employed, SnSe NCs are formed, mostly in the orthorhombic phase, with significant, albeit not drastic, distortion of the anion framework. Intermediate steps in this exchange reaction are represented by Janus-type Cu2-xSe/SnSe heterostructures, with no Cu–Sn–Se alloys. PMID:25340627

Magnetic, dielectric properties, and scaling behaviors of Aurivillius compounds Bi6-x/3Fe2Ti3-2x(WCo)xO18 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.15)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zuo, X. Z.; Yang, J.; Yuan, B.; Song, D. P.; Tang, X. W.; Zhang, K. J.; Zhu, X. B.; Song, W. H.; Dai, J. M.; Sun, Y. P.

2015-03-01

We investigate the structural, magnetic, dielectric properties, and scaling behaviors of Aurivillius compounds Bi6-x/3Fe2Ti3-2x(WCo)xO18 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.15). The room-temperature weak ferromagnetism is observed for the W/Co co-doped samples. The results of the dielectric constant ɛr, complex impedance Z ″ , the dc conductivity σdc, and hopping frequency fH manifest that the dielectric relaxation of the x = 0 sample and the doped samples in the dielectric anomaly region (450-750 K) can be ascribed to the trap-controlled ac conduction around the doubly ionized oxygen vacancies and the localized hopping process of oxygen vacancies, respectively. The scaling behaviors reveal that the dynamic process of both electrons in the x = 0 sample and oxygen vacancies in the doped samples is temperature independent. The ferroelectric Curie-temperature Tc decreases slightly from 973 K to 947 K with increasing the doping level of W/Co. In addition, the dielectric loss exhibits a dielectric relaxation above 800 K with the rather large activation energies (1.95 eV ≤ Ea ≤ 2.72 eV).

Critical current density in (YBa2Cu3O7-δ)1-x-(PrBa2Cu3O7-δ)x melt-textured composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Opata, Yuri Aparecido; Monteiro, João Frederico Haas Leandro; Jurelo, Alcione Roberto; Siqueira, Ezequiel Costa

2018-06-01

Melt textured (YBa2Cu3O7-δ)1-x-(PrBa2Cu3O7-δ)x composites (x = 0.00 and x = 0.05) were grown using the top seeding method. The effect of the PrBa2Cu3O7-δ phase on the growth process and the modification of the microstructure as well as on the physical properties was analyzed. X-ray analyses indicated that both pure and Pr-doped samples present an orthorhombic superconducting phase. From resistivity measurements for YBa2Cu3O7-δ and (YBa2Cu3O7-δ)0.95-(PrBa2Cu3O7-δ)0.05 samples, the Tcab did not change and was around 90.5 K. However, from magnetic measurements, the superconductivity was observed in critical temperatures TC = 92.9 K and 92.4 K for YBa2Cu3O7-δ and (YBa2Cu3O7-δ)0.95-(PrBa2Cu3O7-δ)0.05 samples, respectively. The YBa2Cu3O7-δ sample showed higher critical current densities than those shown by the (YBa2Cu3O7-δ)0.95-(PrBa2Cu3O7-δ)0.05 sample, with values of JC = 5.85 × 105 A/cm2 and 4.72 × 105 A/cm2, respectively. This paper also discusses the importance of Pr substitution on nano- and micro-meter scales to enhance JC(H).

Dielectric Properties of BST/(Y 2O 3) x(ZrO 2) 1-x/BST Trilayer Films

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sahoo, Santosh K.; Misra, D.

2011-01-31

Thin films of Ba1-xSrxTiO3 (BST) are being actively investigated for applications in dynamic random access memories (DRAM) because of their properties such as high dielectric constant, low leakage current, and high dielectric breakdown strength. Various approaches have been used to improve the dielectric properties of BST thin films such as doping, graded compositions, and multilayer structures. We have found that inserting a ZrO2 layer in between two BST layers results in a significant reduction in dielectric constant as well as dielectric loss. In this work the effect of Y2O3 doped ZrO2 on the dielectric properties of BST/ZrO2/BST trilayer structure ismore » studied. The structure Ba0.8Sr0.2TiO3/(Y2O3)x(ZrO2)1-x/Ba0.8Sr0.2TiO3 is deposited by a sol-gel process on platinized Si substrate. The composition (x) of the middle layer is varied while keeping the total thickness of the trilayer film constant. The dielectric constant of the multilayer film decreases with the increase of Y2O3 amount in the film whereas there is a slight variation in dielectric loss. In Y2O3 doped multilayer thin films, the dielectric loss is lower in comparison to other films and also there is good frequency stability in the loss in the measured frequency range and hence very suitable for microwave device applications.« less

Structure and photoluminescence properties of Ba2-xSi4O10:2xSm3+

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ramteke, D. D.; Swart, H. C.

2018-04-01

We investigated the structure and photoluminescence properties of novel Ba2-xSi4O10:2xSm3+ phosphor prepared by the solid state reaction method. In the prepared phosphor the high temperature monoclinic phase was dominant over the low temperature orthorhombic phase. The shifting of the X-ray diffraction peaks with the Sm3+ ion addition was explained on the basis of the refinement results. The photoluminescence study showed that on excitation with 402 nm the phosphor emitted at 560 nm, 600 nm and 645 nm which corresponds to the 4G5/2→4H5/2, 4G5/2→4H7/2 and 4G5/2→4H9/2 transitions, respectively. Concentration quenching effect was also observed in the prepared phosphor. CIE chromaticity coordinates showed that the phosphor can be further developed for display applications.

[Effect of CsA bleomycin-induced interstitial pulmonary disease in mice].

PubMed

Ren, Ying; Yang, Hui; Zhu, Ping; Fan, Chun-mei; Wang, Yan-hong; Li, Jia; Liu, Hui

2012-03-01

To observe the therapeutic effect of cyclosporine A (CsA) on bleomycin (BLM) induced pulmonary fibrosis and to investigate its mechanism. One hundred and twenty C57BL/6 female mice were divided randomly into five groups: BLM model group, control saline group, CsA30 mg treatment group, CsA50 mg treatment group and control treatment group. Treatment groups and model groups were administrated BLM intratracheally to induce interstitial pulmonary disease model, with control saline group administrated with equal volume of normal saline instead. Mice in treatment groups were intraperitoneal injected with CsA, while control treatment group were injected with equal volume of normal saline instead. On the 4th, 7th and 14th day after administration, 8 mice of each group were sacrificed, and the peripheral blood was obtained to count total leucocytes with counting chamber and quantify CD4(+); T cells, CD14(+); monocytes and CD19(+); B cells by flow cytometry (FCM). Bronchoalveolar levage fluid was harvested for cell counting and Giemsa staining. Lung tissues were harvested for immunohistochemical staining and pathological examination. The quantity of total leucocyte was higher in BLM model group than those in control saline group.The proportion of CD14(+); T cells and CD19(+);B cells in BLM model group were increased markedly than those in control saline group on the 4th, 7th and 14th day post BLM. With CsA treatment, The proportion of CD14(+); T cells was lower than BLM model group at the same time point, especially on the 4th day. The proportion of CD19(+); B cells were significantly lower than those of BLM model group at the same time point(7 d, 14 d). The total and classification of cells of BLM model group were increased markedly than those in control saline group, and decreased obviously in the treatment groups at the same time point. Examination of lung tissues: With the prolonged time of BLM administration, it showed wider alveolar septum, more collagen deposition, as

Positron annihilation study of Y 1- xPr xBa 2Cu 3O 7

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Y. G.; Cao, B. S.; Yu, W. Z.; Du, Z. H.; Wang, Y. J.; Luo, C. Y.; Hu, H.; Wang, S.; Yang, J. H.; He, A. S.; Gu, B. L.

1995-02-01

A positron annihilation study of Y 1- xPr xBa 2Cu 3O 7 was performed. The results showed that charge transfer between the CuO 2 planes and 1D CuO chains upon Pr doping, as proposed in the literature, did not occur. Pr doping suppressed the anomaly of positron annihilation lifetime near and below Tc which has been observed in YBa 2Cu 3O 7. The perfection of the 1D CuO chains was reduced by Pr doping and this may be partly responsible for the increase of resistivity with Pr doping, and finally the semiconducting behaviour of DC resistivity in Y 1- xPr xBa 2Cu 3O 7 with x > 0.6.

78 FR 32295 - Motor Carrier Safety Advisory Committee (MCSAC); Public Meetings of the CSA and Motorcoach...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-05-29

... subcommittee will meet to discuss ideas, concepts, and suggestions on FMCSA's CSA program. On Wednesday and... CSA Subcommittee will discuss information, concepts, and ideas concerning FMCSA's CSA program. The...: Motorcoach HOS The Motorcoach HOS Subcommittee will meet to discuss information, concepts, and ideas it...

Mechanism and Catalytic Site Atlas (M-CSA): a database of enzyme reaction mechanisms and active sites.

PubMed

Ribeiro, António J M; Holliday, Gemma L; Furnham, Nicholas; Tyzack, Jonathan D; Ferris, Katherine; Thornton, Janet M

2018-01-04

M-CSA (Mechanism and Catalytic Site Atlas) is a database of enzyme active sites and reaction mechanisms that can be accessed at www.ebi.ac.uk/thornton-srv/m-csa. Our objectives with M-CSA are to provide an open data resource for the community to browse known enzyme reaction mechanisms and catalytic sites, and to use the dataset to understand enzyme function and evolution. M-CSA results from the merging of two existing databases, MACiE (Mechanism, Annotation and Classification in Enzymes), a database of enzyme mechanisms, and CSA (Catalytic Site Atlas), a database of catalytic sites of enzymes. We are releasing M-CSA as a new website and underlying database architecture. At the moment, M-CSA contains 961 entries, 423 of these with detailed mechanism information, and 538 with information on the catalytic site residues only. In total, these cover 81% (195/241) of third level EC numbers with a PDB structure, and 30% (840/2793) of fourth level EC numbers with a PDB structure, out of 6028 in total. By searching for close homologues, we are able to extend M-CSA coverage of PDB and UniProtKB to 51 993 structures and to over five million sequences, respectively, of which about 40% and 30% have a conserved active site. © The Author(s) 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Nucleic Acids Research.

Nano-indentation investigations of (As2Se3)1-x: Snx and (As4S3Se3)1-x: Snx glasses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harea, D. V.; Harea, E. E.; Iaseniuc, O. V.; Iovu, M. S.

2015-02-01

Experimental results on some physical and optical properties of (As2Se3)1-x:Snx and (As4S3Se3)1-x:Snx (x = 0-10 at %) glasses and amorphous films (d~2.0 μm) are presented. The bulk chalcogenide glasses are studied by X-ray diffraction spectroscopy and nanoindentation methods. It is established that the addition of these amounts of tin (x = 0-10 at %) does not lead to significant changes in the physical properties of the glass, such as values of stress and Young's modulus related to the modification of the density and compactness. It has been found that the addition of these amounts of tin in (As4S3Se3)1-x:Snx does not lead to significant changes in the glass physical properties, such as values of stress and Young's modulus related to the modification of the density and compactness. The study of the photoplastic effect is performed in situ, with illumination of the bulk and thin film samples during indentation as well as their indentation after illumination with a green laser (λ = 532 nm) at a power of P = 50 mV/cm2. The hardness is calculated from load-displacement curves by the Oliver-Pharr method. A sharp increase in hardness is registered if the tin concentration exceeds a value of 34% Sn. The hardness H of (As2Se3)1-x:Snx films varies between 115 and 130 kg/mm2. It is found that the hardness H of amorphous thin films is generally higher than the hardness of bulk samples with the same chemical composition. In this study, we are focused on the mechanical characteristics of high-purity As2Se3: Snx thin films. Keyword: Chalcogenide glasses, hardness,

Structural and ferroelectric phase evolution in [KNbO3]1-x[BaNi1/2Nb1/2O3-δ]x (x = 0, 0.1)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hawley, Christopher; Wu, Liyan; Xiao, Geoffrey; Grinberg, Ilya; Rappe, Andrew; Davies, Peter; Spanier, Jonathan

The phase transition evolution for [KNbO3]1-x[BaNi1/2Nb1/2O3-δ]x (x=0, 0.1) is determined via complementary dielectric constant and Raman scattering measurements. Raman scattering by optical phonons over the range of 100-1000 cm-1 for -190°C < T < 600°C reveals six discernible zone-center optical phonon modes. They are assigned to structural and ferroelectric phases in the solid solution x = 0.1 and compared with those for end member x = 0 and with the results of temperature-dependent dielectric permittivity. Rigorous peak fitting analyses of spectra collected from the solid solution and end member indicate structural and ferroelectric phase transition temperatures that are quite close to those for the KNbO3 end member. Remarkably, despite the inclusion of 5 atomic Work supported by US ARO under W911NF-14-1-0500, NSF 1123696, and DoE BES under DE-FG02-07ER46431. Equipment acquisitions and computational support under DURIP and DoE NERSCC.

Electrical conductivity studies in (Ag3AsS3)x(As2S3)1-x superionic glasses and composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Studenyak, I. P.; Neimet, Yu. Yu.; Kranjčec, M.; Solomon, A. M.; Orliukas, A. F.; Kežionis, A.; Kazakevičius, E.; Šalkus, T.

2014-01-01

Compositional, frequency, and temperature studies of impedance and electrical conductivity in (Ag3AsS3)x(As2S3)1-x superionic glasses and composites were performed. Frequency range from 10 Hz to 3 × 109 Hz and temperature interval 300-400 K were used for the measurements. Compositional dependences of electrical conductivity and activation energy are analyzed; the most substantial changes are observed with the transition from (Ag3AsS3)0.4(As2S3)0.6 glass to (Ag3AsS3)0.5(As2S3)0.5 composite. With increase of Ag3AsS3 content, the investigated materials are found to have crystalline inclusions and show the two-phase composite nature. Addition of Ag3AsS3 leads to the increase of electrical conductivity whereas the activation energy decreases.

Dl-3-n-Butylphthalide Inhibits NLRP3 Inflammasome and Mitigates Alzheimer's-Like Pathology via Nrf2-TXNIP-TrX Axis.

PubMed

Wang, Chun-Yan; Xu, Ye; Wang, Xu; Guo, Chuang; Wang, Tao; Wang, Zhan-You

2018-04-25

Oxidative stress and neuroinflammation play important roles in the pathology of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP), an endogenous inhibitor of antioxidant thioredoxin, is suspected to be an important modulator of oxidative stress and inflammation. However, the underlying mechanism involved in the abnormal homeostasis of TXNIP-thioredoxin (TrX) in AD pathogenesis remains unclear. Using the Swedish mutant form of APP (APPswe)/PSEN1dE9 transgenic mouse (APP/PS1) and human-derived neuronal cells as model systems, we disclosed the impairment of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-TXNIP-TrX signaling in Alzheimer's-like pathology. We observed that the immune staining of TXNIP was increased in postmortem AD brain. The chronic accumulation of inflammatory mediator in neuronal cells facilitates interactions of TXNIP-nucleotide binding oligomerization domain-like receptor family, pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) and NLRP3-ASC, which increases β-amyloid (Aβ) secretion. The antioxidant Dl-3-n-butylphthalide (Dl-NBP) is commonly used for cerebral ischemia treatment. In our study, we elucidated for new mechanisms by which Dl-NBP enhanced TrX activity, suppressed TXNIP, and ameliorated neuronal apoptosis in the APP/PS1 mouse brains. In human glioblastoma A172 cells and neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells, we delineated the Dl-NBP-mediated signaling pathways by which Dl-NBP-dependent upregulation of Nrf2 mediated the reciprocal regulation of reducing proinflammatory cytokine and inhibiting Aβ production in the glial and neuronal cells overexpressing APPswe. Our data provide a novel insight into the molecular mechanism that impairments of Nrf2-TXNIP-TrX system may be involved in the imbalance of cellular redox homeostasis and inflammatory damage in the AD brain. Dl-NBP treatment could suppress TXNIP-NLRP3 interaction and inhibit NLRP3 inflammasome activation via upregulating Nrf2. These findings may provide an instrumental therapeutic

Competitive antagonism of recombinant P2X(2/3) receptors by 2', 3'-O-(2,4,6-trinitrophenyl) adenosine 5'-triphosphate (TNP-ATP).

PubMed

Burgard, E C; Niforatos, W; van Biesen, T; Lynch, K J; Kage, K L; Touma, E; Kowaluk, E A; Jarvis, M F

2000-12-01

TNP-ATP has become widely recognized as a potent and selective P2X receptor antagonist, and is currently being used to discriminate between subtypes of P2X receptors in a variety of tissues. We have investigated the ability of TNP-ATP to inhibit alpha,beta-methylene ATP (alpha,beta-meATP)-evoked responses in 1321N1 human astrocytoma cells expressing recombinant rat or human P2X(2/3) receptors. Pharmacological responses were measured using electrophysiological and calcium imaging techniques. TNP-ATP was a potent inhibitor of P2X(2/3) receptors, blocking both rat and human receptors with IC(50) values of 3 to 6 nM. In competition studies, 10 to 1000 microM alpha,beta-meATP was able to overcome TNP-ATP inhibition. Schild analysis revealed that TNP-ATP was a competitive antagonist with pA(2) values of -8.7 and -8.2. Inhibition of P2X(2/3) receptors by TNP-ATP was rapid in onset, reversible, and did not display use dependence. Although the onset kinetics of inhibition were concentration-dependent, the TNP-ATP off-kinetics were concentration-independent and relatively slow. Full recovery from TNP-ATP inhibition did not occur until >/=5 s after removal of the antagonist. Because of the slow off-kinetics of TNP-ATP, full competition with alpha,beta-meATP for receptor occupancy could be seen only after both ligands had reached a steady-state condition. It is proposed that the slowly desensitizing P2X(2/3) receptor allowed this competitive interaction to be observed over time, whereas the rapid desensitization of other P2X receptors (P2X(3)) may mask the detection of competitive inhibition by TNP-ATP.

Structures, thermal expansion properties and phase transitions of Er{sub x}Fe{sub 2-x}(MoO{sub 4}){sub 3} (0.0 {le} x {le} 2.0).

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cheng, Y. Z.; Wu, M. M.; Peng, J.

2007-05-03

Structures, thermal expansion properties and phase transitions of Er{sub x}Fe{sub 2-x}(MoO{sub 4}){sub 3} (0.0 {le} x {le} 2.0) have been investigated by X-ray diffraction and differential thermal analysis. The partial substitution of Er{sup 3+} for Fe{sup 3+} induces pronounced decreases in the phase transition temperature from monoclinic to orthorhombic structure. Rietveld analysis of the XRD data shows that both the monoclinic and orthorhombic Fe{sub 2}(MoO{sub 4}){sub 3}, as well as the orthorhombic Er{sub x}Fe{sub 2-x}(MoO{sub 4}){sub 3} (x {le} 0.8) have positive thermal expansion coefficients. However, the linear thermal expansion coefficients of Er{sub x}Fe{sub 2-x}(MoO{sub 4}){sub 3} (x = 0.6-2.0)more » decrease with increasing content of Er{sup 3+} and for x {ge} 1.0, compounds Er{sub x}Fe{sub 2-x}(MoO{sub 4}){sub 3} show negative thermal expansion properties. Attempts for making zero thermal expansion coefficient materials result in that very low negative thermal expansion coefficient of -0.60 x 10{sup -6} C in Er{sub 1.0}Fe{sub 1.0}(MoO{sub 4}){sub 3} is observed in the temperature range of 180-400 C, and zero thermal expansion is observed in Er{sub 0.8}Fe{sub 1.2}(MoO{sub 4}){sub 3} in the temperature range of 350-450 C. In addition, anisotropic thermal expansions are found for all the orthorhombic Er{sub x}Fe{sub 2-x}(MoO{sub 4}){sub 3} compounds, with negative thermal expansion coefficients along the a axes.« less

Composition-property relationships in (Gd3-xLux)(GayAl5-y)O12:Ce (x = 0, 1, 2, 3 and y = 0, 1, 2, 3, 4) multicomponent garnet scintillators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luo, Jialiang; Wu, Yuntao; Zhang, Guoqing; Zhang, Huaijin; Ren, Guohao

2013-12-01

The (LuxGd3-x)(GayAl5-y)O12:Ce (x = 0, 1, 2, 3 and y = 0, 1, 2, 3, 4) scintillating polycrystalline powders were prepared by high temperature solid state reaction method. A pure cubic phase was confirmed in all samples by X-ray diffraction (XRD). X-ray excited luminescence (XEL), photoluminescence excitation and emission spectra were employed to study the influence of Gd3+-Ga3+ admixture on the luminescent mechanism of Ce3+ as well as the energy transfer from Gd3+ to Ce3+. The band-gap structures with varying Gd3+ and Ga3+ content were constructed to understand the luminescence behaviors. In addition, thermoluminescence spectra (TL) were utilized to identify the moving of conduction band (CB) by monitoring the shift of the corresponding TL peaks. Finally, it was found that incorporation of 40 mol% (y = 2) Ga3+ and 33.3-66.7 mol% (x = 1-2) Gd3+ could secure enough energy-separation between CB and 5d1 of Ce3+ avoiding thermal ionization effect at utmost, and bury the antisite defect traps into CB, and in turn achieving the optimum scintillation efficiency.

The Drosophila Su(var)3-7 gene is required for oogenesis and female fertility, genetically interacts with piwi and aubergine, but impacts only weakly transposon silencing.

PubMed

Basquin, Denis; Spierer, Anne; Begeot, Flora; Koryakov, Dmitry E; Todeschini, Anne-Laure; Ronsseray, Stéphane; Vieira, Cristina; Spierer, Pierre; Delattre, Marion

2014-01-01

Heterochromatin is made of repetitive sequences, mainly transposable elements (TEs), the regulation of which is critical for genome stability. We have analyzed the role of the heterochromatin-associated Su(var)3-7 protein in Drosophila ovaries. We present evidences that Su(var)3-7 is required for correct oogenesis and female fertility. It accumulates in heterochromatic domains of ovarian germline and somatic cells nuclei, where it co-localizes with HP1. Homozygous mutant females display ovaries with frequent degenerating egg-chambers. Absence of Su(var)3-7 in embryos leads to defects in meiosis and first mitotic divisions due to chromatin fragmentation or chromosome loss, showing that Su(var)3-7 is required for genome integrity. Females homozygous for Su(var)3-7 mutations strongly impair repression of P-transposable element induced gonadal dysgenesis but have minor effects on other TEs. Su(var)3-7 mutations reduce piRNA cluster transcription and slightly impact ovarian piRNA production. However, this modest piRNA reduction does not correlate with transposon de-silencing, suggesting that the moderate effect of Su(var)3-7 on some TE repression is not linked to piRNA production. Strikingly, Su(var)3-7 genetically interacts with the piwi and aubergine genes, key components of the piRNA pathway, by strongly impacting female fertility without impairing transposon silencing. These results lead us to propose that the interaction between Su(var)3-7 and piwi or aubergine controls important developmental processes independently of transposon silencing.

Structural morphology of YBa 2Cu 3O 7- x

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, B. N.; Hartman, P.; Woensdregt, C. F.; Schmid, H.

1990-03-01

The structural morphology of YBa 2Cu 3O 7- x (YBCO) has been investigated by application of the periodic bond chain (PBC) theory. For x=1, the F forms were found to be {001}, {011}, {013}, {112} and {114}. Attachment energies have been calculated in broken bond model and in an electrostatic point charge model. For x=1 the theoretical growth habit is tabular to platy {001} with {011} as side faces. For x=0 {010} also becomes an F form. The habit is isometric with large {001} and {011} and small {010} faces. The outermost layer of {001} contains half of the Cu + ( x=1) or Cu 3+ and O 2- ( x=0) ions in an ordered arrangement based on a c(2x2) quadratic lattice. For the outermost layer of (010) ( x=0) an ordering scheme of the copper and oxygen ions is proposed. The occurrence of {010} rather than {011} on grown crystals has to be ascribed to external factors.

CRISPR-Cas type I-A Cascade complex couples viral infection surveillance to host transcriptional regulation in the dependence of Csa3b.

PubMed

He, Fei; Vestergaard, Gisle; Peng, Wenfang; She, Qunxin; Peng, Xu

2017-02-28

CRISPR-Cas (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats and the associated genes) constitute adaptive immune systems in bacteria and archaea and they provide sequence specific immunity against foreign nucleic acids. CRISPR-Cas systems are activated by viral infection. However, little is known about how CRISPR-Cas systems are activated in response to viral infection or how their expression is controlled in the absence of viral infection. Here, we demonstrate that both the transcriptional regulator Csa3b, and the type I-A interference complex Cascade, are required to transcriptionally repress the interference gene cassette in the archaeon Sulfolobus. Csa3b binds to two palindromic repeat sites in the promoter region of the cassette and facilitates binding of the Cascade to the promoter region. Upon viral infection, loading of Cascade complexes onto crRNA-matching protospacers leads to relief of the transcriptional repression. Our data demonstrate a mechanism coupling CRISPR-Cas surveillance of protospacers to transcriptional regulation of the interference gene cassette thereby allowing a fast response to viral infection. © The Author(s) 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Nucleic Acids Research.

Compositional dependence of magnetic anisotropy in chemically synthesized Co3- x Fe x O4 (0 ≤ x ≤ 2)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hayashi, Kensuke; Yamada, Keisuke; Shima, Mutsuhiro

2018-01-01

Magnetic anisotropy of Co3- x Fe x O4 (CFO, 0 ≤ x ≤ 2) thin-film and powder samples prepared by a sol-gel method has been investigated as a function of Fe composition x. Structural analyses by X-ray diffraction show that CFO powder samples exhibit diffraction peaks associated with the spinel structure when x < 2, while CFO thin-film samples with thickness of 130-510 nm yield the peaks when 0 ≤ x ≤ 2. CFO thin-film samples are highly (111)-oriented with the Lotgering factor greater than 0.9 when 0.6 ≤ x ≤ 1.3. The magnetic anisotropy constant K 1 of CFO powder samples estimated from their room-temperature hysteresis loops yields a minimum when x = 0.9. Relatively large in-plane magnetic anisotropy (K eff = 5.7 × 105 erg/cm3) is observed for the CFO thin-film sample when x = 1.3. With increasing x, the magnetic easy axis of the spinel CFO changes from 〈111〉 to 〈100〉 when x = 0.9.

Effect of lappaconitine on neuropathic pain mediated by P2X3 receptor in rat dorsal root ganglion.

PubMed

Ou, Shan; Zhao, Yan-Dong; Xiao, Zhi; Wen, Hui-Zhong; Cui, Jian; Ruan, Huai-Zhen

2011-04-01

ATP facilitates initiation and transmission of the neuropathic pain at the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) level via the P2X receptors, especially the subtype P2X(3). Lappaconitine (LA) is an active principle isolated from Chinese herbal medicine and possesses analgesic effect. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of LA on chronic constriction injury (CCI)-induced neuropathic pain mediated by P2X(3) receptor in the DRG neurons. In the presence of CCI and/or LA, the mechanical withdrawal threshold (MWT) and thermal withdrawal latency (TWL) were measured and P2X(3) receptor expression in the DRG neurons was evaluated by immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. Following intrathecal administration of P2X(3) receptor oligonucleotide, the effect of LA on pain thresholds was assessed. Furthermore, the effect of LA on the P2X(3) receptor agonists ATP- and α,β-meATP-induced inward currents (I(ATP) and I(α,β-meATP)) in the acutely dissociated rat DRG neurons was investigated by whole cell patch-clamp. The results included: (1) There showed reduction of pain thresholds, enhancement of I(ATP) and I(α,β-meATP) and up-regulation of P2X(3) receptor expression in rat DRG neurons when neuropathic pain occurred. (2) In the presence of LA, the decreased pain thresholds, the up-regulated P2X(3) receptor expression and the enhanced I(ATP) and I(α,β-meATP) were reversible in the CCI rats. (3) The down-regulated P2X(3) receptor expression with pretreatment of P2X(3) receptor antisense oligonucleotide significantly attenuated the analgesic effect of LA. These results indicate that the analgesic effect of LA involves decrease of expression and sensitization of the P2X(3) receptors of the rat DRG neurons following CCI. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Ba0.06(Na,Bi)0.94Ti1-x(Ni1/3Nb2/3)xO3 ceramics: X-ray diffraction and infrared spectroscopy studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mishra, R. K.; Prasad, Ashutosh; Chandra, K. P.; Prasad, K.

2018-05-01

Non-lead ceramic samples of Ba0.06(Na0.5Bi0.5)0.94Ti1-x(Ni1/3Nb2/3)xO3; 0 ≤ x ≤ 1.0 were prepared by standard high temperature ceramic synthesis method. Rietveld refinements of X-ray diffraction data of these ceramics were carried out using FullProf software and determined their crystal symmetry, space group and unit cell dimensions. Rietveld refinement revealed that Ba0.06(Na0.5Bi0.5)0.94TiO3 has a monoclinic structure with space group P4/m while B0.06(Na0.5Bi0.5)0.94(Ni1/3Nb2/3)O3 has tetragonal (pseudo-cubic) structure with space group P4/mmm. Partial replacement of Ti4+ ion by pseudo-cation (Ni1/33 +Nb2/3 5 +) 4 + resulted in the change of unit cell structure from monoclinic to tetragonal. SEM studies were carried out in order to access the quality of the prepared ceramics which showed a change in grain sizes with the increase of (Ni1/33 +Nb2/3 5 +) 4 + content. FTIR spectra confirmed the formation of perovskite type solid solutions.

Antifungal compounds from Zanthoxylum chiloperone var. angustifolium.

PubMed

Thouvenel, Céline; Gantier, Jean-Charles; Duret, Philippe; Fourneau, Christophe; Hocquemiller, Reynald; Ferreira, Maria-Elena; Rojas de Arias, Antonieta; Fournet, Alain

2003-06-01

An alkaloidal extract of the stem barks of Zanthoxylum chiloperone var. angustifolium exhibited antifungal activity against Candida albicans, Aspergillus fumigatus and Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. interdigitale using a TLC bioautographic method. Bioassay-guided fractionation of this extract resulted in the isolation of two active compounds identi fi ed as canthin-6-one and 5-methoxycanthin-6-one. Canthin-6-one exhibited a broad spectrum of activities against Aspergillus fumigatus, A. niger, A. terreus, Candida albicans, C. tropicalis, C. glabrata, Cryptococcus neoformans, Geotrichum candidum, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Trichosporon beigelii, Trichosporon cutaneum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. interdigitale with MICs values between 5.3 and 46 micro mol/L. 5-methoxy-canthin-6-one was active against only Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. interdigitale with a MIC value of 12.3 micro mol/L. Copyright 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Structural and ferroelectric phase evolution in [KNbO3]1-x[BaNi1/2Nb1/2O3 -δ] x (x =0 ,0.1 )

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hawley, Christopher J.; Wu, Liyan; Xiao, Geoffrey; Grinberg, Ilya; Rappe, Andrew M.; Davies, Peter K.; Spanier, Jonathan E.

2017-08-01

The phase transition evolution for [KNbO3]1-x[BaNi1/2Nb1/2O3 -δ] x(x =0 ,0.1 ) is determined via complementary dielectric permittivity and Raman-scattering measurements. Raman scattering by optical phonons over the range of 100-1000 cm-1 for 83 K x =0.1 and compared with those for end member x =0 and with the results of temperature-dependent dielectric permittivity. Rigorous peak fitting analyses of spectra collected from the solid solution and end member indicate structural and ferroelectric phase transition temperatures that are close to those for the KNbO3 end member despite the inclusion of 5 atomic % of ferroelectrically inactive Ni cations. Density functional theory calculations were performed in the solid solution and end member using both cation displacement and Berry phase-based methods. Differences in the electronic and polar properties between the solid solution and the end member highlights local and nonlocal characteristics, which are discussed in relation to the experimental data.

Development and characterization of 12 polymorphic microsatellite loci for pityopsis graminifolia var. latifolia

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Pityopsis graminifolia var. latifolia (narrowleaf silkplant), is an herbaceous perennial indigenous to northern Alabama and east Tennessee. Pityopsis graminifolia is a tetraploid (2n=4x=36) and is a sympatric species of the federally endangered plant P. ruthii, which grows along the Hiwassee and Oco...

Theoretical Study of the Jahn-Teller effect in CH3CN+ (X2E) and CD3CN+ (X2E): multimode spin-vibronic energy level calculations.

PubMed

Zhang, Shiyang; Mo, Yuxiang

2009-10-15

The spin-vibronic energy levels for CH(3)CN(+)(X(2)E) and CD(3)CN(+)(X(2)E) have been calculated using a diabatic model including multimode vibronic couplings and spin-orbit interaction without adjusting any parameter. The diabatic potential energy surfaces are represented by the Taylor expansions including linear, quadratic and bilinear vibronic coupling terms. The normal coordinates used in the Taylor expansion were expressed by the mass-weighted Cartesian coordinates. The adiabatic potential energy surfaces for CH(3)CN(+) and CD(3)CN(+) were calculated at the level of CASPT2/cc-pvtz, and the spin-orbit coupling constant was calculated at the level of MRCI/CAS/cc-pvtz. The spin-orbit energy splittings for the ground vibrational states of CH(3)CN(+)(X(2)E) and CD(3)CN(+)(X(2)E) are 20 and 16 cm(-1), respectively, which are resulted from the quenching of the spin-orbit coupling strength of 51 cm(-1). The calculated spin-vibronic levels are in good agreement with the experimental data. The calculation results show that the Jahn-Teller effects in CH(3)CN(+)(X(2)E) and CD(3)CN(+)(X(2)E) are essential to understand their spin-vibronic energy structure.

Identification of P2X3 and P2X7 Purinergic Receptors Activated by ATP in Rat Lacrimal Gland

PubMed Central

Vrouvlianis, Joanna; Scott, Rachel; Dartt, Darlene A.

2011-01-01

Purpose. To identify the type of purinergic receptors activated by adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in rat lacrimal gland and to determine their role in protein secretion. Methods. Purinergic receptors were identified by RT-PCR, Western blot analysis, and immunofluorescence techniques. Acini from rat lacrimal gland were isolated by collagenase digestion. Acini were incubated with the fluorescence indicator fura-2 tetra-acetoxylmethyl ester, and intracellular [Ca2+] ([Ca2+]i) was determined. Protein secretion was measured by fluorescence assay. Results. The authors previously showed that P2X7 receptors were functional in the lacrimal gland. In this study, they show that P2X1–4, and P2X6receptors were identified in the lacrimal gland by RT-PCR, Western blot, and immunofluorescence analyses. P2X5 receptors were not detected. ATP increased [Ca2+]i and protein secretion in a concentration-dependent manner. Removal of extracellular Ca2+ significantly reduced the ATP-stimulated increase in [Ca2+]i. Repeated applications of ATP caused desensitization of the [Ca2+]i response. Incubation with the P2X1 receptor inhibitor NF023 did not alter ATP-stimulated [Ca2+]i. Incubation with zinc, which potentiates P2X2 and P2X4 receptor responses, or lowering the pH to 6.8, which potentiates P2X2 receptor responses, did not alter the ATP-stimulated [Ca2+]i. P2X3 receptor inhibitors A-317491 and TNP-ATP significantly decreased ATP-stimulated [Ca2+]i and protein secretion, whereas the P2X3 receptor agonist α,β methylene ATP significantly increased them. The P2X7 receptor inhibitor A438079 had no effect on ATP-stimulated [Ca2+]i at 10−6 M but did have an effect at 10−4 M. Conclusions. Purinergic receptors P2X1–4 and P2X6 are present in the lacrimal gland. ATP uses P2X3 and P2X7 receptors to stimulate an increase in [Ca2+]i and protein secretion. PMID:21421865

Localization of P2X receptor subtypes 2, 3 and 7 in human urinary bladder.

PubMed

Svennersten, Karl; Hallén-Grufman, Katarina; de Verdier, Petra J; Wiklund, N Peter; Poljakovic, Mirjana

2015-08-08

Voiding dysfunctions are a common problem that has a severe negative impact on the quality of life. Today there is a need for new drug targets for these conditions. The role of ATP receptors in bladder physiology has been studied for some time, primarily in animal models. The aim of this work is to investigate the localization of the ATP receptors P2X2, P2X3 and P2X7 and their colocalization with vimentin and actin in the human urinary bladder. Immunohistochemical analysis was conducted on full-thickness bladder tissues from fundus and trigonum collected from 15 patients undergoing open radical cystectomy due to chronic cystitis, bladder cancer or locally advanced prostate cancer. Colocalization analyses were performed between the three different P2X subtypes and the structural proteins vimentin and actin. Specimens were examined using epifluorescence microscopy and correlation coefficients were calculated for each costaining as well as the mean distance from the laminin positive basal side of the urothelium to the vimentin positive cells located in the suburothelium. P2X2 was expressed in vimentin positive cells located in the suburothelium. Less distinct labelling of P2X2 was also observed in actin positive smooth muscle cells and in the urothelium. P2X3 was expressed in vimentin positive cells surrounding the smooth muscle, and in vimentin positive cells located in the suburothelium. Weaker P2X3 labelling was seen in the urothelium. P2X7 was expressed in the smooth muscle cells and the urothelium. In the suburothelium, cells double positive for P2X2 and vimentin where located closer to the urothelium while cells double positive for P2X3 and vimentin where located further from the urothelium. The results from this study demonstrate that there is a significant difference in the expression of the purinergic P2X2, P2X3 and P2X7 receptors in the different histological layers of the human urinary bladder.

Heteroepitaxial growth of Ba1 - xSrxTiO3/YBa2Cu3O7 - x by plasma-enhanced metalorganic chemical vapor deposition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chern, C. S.; Liang, S.; Shi, Z. Q.; Yoon, S.; Safari, A.; Lu, P.; Kear, B. H.; Goodreau, B. H.; Marks, T. J.; Hou, S. Y.

1994-06-01

Epitaxial Ba1-xSrxTiO3(BST)/YBa2Cu3O7-x heterostructures with superior electrical and dielectric properties have been fabricated by plasma-enhanced metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (PE-MOCVD). Data of x-ray diffraction and high resolution transmission electron microscopy showed that <100> oriented Ba1-xSrxTiO3 layers were epitaxially deposited on epitaxial (001) YBa2Cu3O7-x layers. The leakage current density through the Ba1-xSrxTiO3 films was about 10-7 A/cm2 at 2 V (about 2×105 V/cm) operation. Moreover, the results of capacitance-temperature measurements showed that the PE-MOCVD Ba1-xSrxTiO3 films had Curie temperatures of about 30 °C and a peak dielectric constant of 600 at zero bias voltage. The Rutherford backscattering spectrometry and x-ray diffraction results showed that the BST film composition was controlled between Ba0.75Sr0.25TiO3 and Ba0.8Sr0.2TiO3. The structural and electrical properties of the Ba1-xSrxTiO3/YBa2Cu3O7-x heterostructure indicated that conductive oxide materials with close lattice to Ba1-xSrxTiO3 can be good candidates for the bottom electrode.

Effects of Sb Content (x) on (Bi(1-x)Sb(x))2Te3 Thermoelectric Thin Film Deposited by Effusion Cell Evaporator.

PubMed

Yong, Ho; Na, Sekwon; Gang, Jun-Gu; Jeon, Seong-Jae; Hyun, Seungmin; Lee, Hoo-Jeong

2015-10-01

This paper investigates the effects of the Sb content (x) on (Bi(1-x)Sb(x))2Te3 thermoelectric films with x changing widely from 0 (Sb2Te3) to 1 (Bi2Te3). First, the XRD analysis discloses that with the Sb content (x) increasing, the phase changed gradually from Bi2Te3 to Sb2Te3 as Sb atoms replaced substitutionally Bi atoms. Further microstructure analysis reveals that an extensive grain growth occurred during post-annealing for the samples with high Sb contents. According to the measurement of electrical and thermoelectric properties, the polarity of the charge carrier and Seebeck coefficient switched n-type to p-type in the range of x = 0.45~0.63. For the n-type samples, the power factor is highest when x = 0.18 around 46.01 μW/K(2) whereas Sb2Te3, for the p-type samples, shows the highest value, 62.48 μW/K(2)cm.

Boron Substituted Na 3 V 2 (P 1 -x B x O 4 ) 3 Cathode Materials with Enhanced Performance for Sodium-Ion Batteries

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hu, Pu; Wang, Xiaofang; Wang, Tianshi

The development of excellent performance of Na-ion batteries remains great challenge owing to the poor stability and sluggish kinetics of cathode materials. Herein, B substituted Na 3V 2P 3–xB xO 12 (0 ≤ x ≤ 1) as stable cathode materials for Na-ion battery is presented. A combined experimental and theoretical investigations on Na 3V 2P 3–xB xO 12 (0 ≤ x ≤ 1) are undertaken to reveal the evolution of crystal and electronic structures and Na storage properties associated with various concentration of B. X-ray diffraction results indicate that the crystal structure of Na 3V 2P 3–xB xO 12 (0more » ≤ x ≤ 1/3) consisted of rhombohedral Na 3V 2(PO 4) 3 with tiny shrinkage of crystal lattice. X-ray absorption spectra and the calculated crystal structures all suggest that the detailed local structural distortion of substituted materials originates from the slight reduction of V–O distances. Na 3V 2P 3-1/6B 1/6O 12 significantly enhances the structural stability and electrochemical performance, giving remarkable enhanced capacity of 100 and 70 mAh g -1 when the C-rate increases to 5 C and 10 C. Spin-polarized density functional theory (DFT) calculation reveals that, as compared with the pristine Na 3V 2(PO 4) 3, the superior electrochemical performance of the substituted materials can be attributed to the emergence of new boundary states near the band gap, lower Na + diffusion energy barriers, and higher structure stability.« less

Diversity, virulence and 2,4-diacetylphloroglucinol sensitivity of Gaeumannomyces graminis var. tritici isolates from Washington State

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

We determined whether isolates of the take-all pathogen Gaeumannomyces graminis var. tritici become less sensitive to 2,4-DAPG during wheat monoculture as a result of exposure to the antibiotic over multiple growing seasons. Over 177 isolates of G. graminis var. tritici were baited from roots of nat...

Trophic Activity of Human P2X7 Receptor Isoforms A and B in Osteosarcoma

PubMed Central

Giuliani, Anna Lisa; Colognesi, Davide; Ricco, Tiziana; Roncato, Carlotta; Capece, Marina; Amoroso, Francesca; Wang, Qi Guang; De Marchi, Elena; Gartland, Allison; Di Virgilio, Francesco; Adinolfi, Elena

2014-01-01

The P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) is attracting increasing attention for its involvement in cancer. Several recent studies have shown a crucial role of P2X7R in tumour cell growth, angiogenesis and invasiveness. In this study, we investigated the role of the two known human P2X7R functional splice variants, the full length P2X7RA and the truncated P2X7RB, in osteosarcoma cell growth. Immunohistochemical analysis of a tissue array of human osteosarcomas showed that forty-four, of a total fifty-four tumours (81.4%), stained positive for both P2X7RA and B, thirty-one (57.4%) were positive using an anti-P2X7RA antibody, whereas fifteen of the total number (27.7%) expressed only P2X7RB. P2X7RB positive tumours showed increased cell density, at the expense of extracellular matrix. The human osteosarcoma cell line Te85, which lacks endogenous P2X7R expression, was stably transfected with either P2X7RA, P2X7RB, or both. Receptor expression was a powerful stimulus for cell growth, the most efficient growth-promoting isoform being P2X7RB alone. Growth stimulation was matched by increased Ca2+ mobilization and enhanced NFATc1 activity. Te85 P2X7RA+B cells presented pore formation as well as spontaneous extracellular ATP release. The ATP release was sustained in all clones by P2X7R agonist (BzATP) and reduced following P2X7R antagonist (A740003) application. BzATP also increased cell growth and activated NFATc1 levels. On the other hand cyclosporin A (CSA) affected both NFATc1 activation and cell growth, definitively linking P2X7R stimulation to NFATc1 and cell proliferation. All transfected clones also showed reduced RANK-L expression, and an overall decreased RANK-L/OPG ratio. Mineralization was increased in Te85 P2X7RA+B cells while it was significantly diminished in Te85 P2X7RB clones, in agreement with immunohistochemical results. In summary, our data show that the majority of human osteosarcomas express P2X7RA and B and suggest that expression of either isoform is differently

Comparison of pedometer and accelerometer measures of free-living physical activity.

PubMed

Tudor-Locke, Catrine; Ainsworth, Barbara E; Thompson, Raymond W; Matthews, Charles E

2002-12-01

The purpose of this investigation was 1) to evaluate agreement between dual-mode CSA accelerometer outputs and Yamax pedometer outputs assessed concurrently under free-living conditions; 2) to determine the relationship between pedometer-steps per day and CSA-time spent in inactivity and in light-, moderate-, and vigorous-intensity activities; and 3) to identify a value of pedometer-steps per day that corresponds with a minimum of 30 CSA-min x d(-1) of moderate ambulatory activity. Data were analyzed from 52 participants (27 men, 25 women; mean age = 38.2 +/- 12.0 yr; mean BMI = 26.4 +/- 4.5 kg x m(-2)) who were enrolled in the International Physical Activity Questionnaire study and wore both motion sensors during waking hours for 7 consecutive days. Participants averaged 415.0+/-159.5 CSA-counts x min(-1) x d(-1), 357,601 +/- 138,425 CSA-counts x d(-1), 11,483 +/- 3,856 CSA-steps x d(-1), and 9,638 +/- 4,030 pedometer-steps x d(-1). There was a strong relationship between all CSA outputs and pedometer outputs (r = 0.74-0.86). The mean difference in steps detected between instruments was 1845+/-2116 steps x d(-1) (CSA > pedometer; t = 6.29, P < 0.0001). There were distinct differences (effect sizes >0.80) in mean CSA-time (min x d(-1)) in moderate and vigorous activity with increasing pedometer-determined activity quartiles; no differences were noted for inactivity or light activity. Approximately 33 CSA-min x d(-1) of moderate activity corresponded with 8000 pedometer-steps x d(-1). Differences in mean steps per day detected may be due to differences in set instrument sensitivity thresholds and/or attachment. Additional studies with different populations are needed to confirm a recommended number of steps per day associated with the duration and intensity of public health recommendations for ambulatory activity.

YBa2Cu3O x superconducting nanorods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rieken, William; Bhargava, Atit; Horie, Rie; Akimitsu, Jun; Daimon, Hiroshi

2018-02-01

Herein, we report the synthesis of YBa2Cu3O x superconducting nanorods performed by solution chemistry. Initially, a mixture of fine-grained coprecipitated powder was obtained and subsequently converted to YBa2Cu3O x nanorods by heating to 1223 K in oxygen for 12 h. The nanorods are superconducting without the need for any further sintering or oxygenation, thereby providing an avenue for direct application to substrates at room temperature or direct use as formed nanorods. A critical superconducting transition temperature T c of about 92 K was achieved at a critical magnetic field of 10 Oe.

Phase relations in the pseudobinary systems RAO3-R2Ti2O7 (R: rare earth element and Y, A: Fe, Ga, Al, Cr and Mn) and syntheses of new compounds R(A1-xTix)O3+x/2 (2/3≤x≤3/4) at elevated temperatures in air

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brown, Francisco; Jacobo-Herrera, Ivan; Alvarez-Montaño, Victor; Kimizuka, Noboru; Kurashina, Keiji; Michiue, Yuichi; Matsuo, Yoji; Mori, Shigeo; Ikeda, Naoshi; Medrano, Felipe

2017-07-01

Phase relations in the pseudo-binary systems RFeO3-R2Ti2O7 (R: Lu, Ho and Dy), RGaO3-R2Ti2O7 (R: Lu and Er), LuAlO3-Lu2Ti2O7 and RAO3-R2Ti2O7 (R: Lu and Yb. A: Cr and Mn) at elevated temperatures in air were determined by means of a classic quenching method. There exist Lu(Fe1-xTix)O3+x/2, R(Ga1-xTix)O3+x/2 (R: Lu and Er) and Lu(Al1-xTix)O3+x/2 (2/3≤ x≤3/4) having the Yb(Fe1-xTix)O3+x/2-type of crystal structure (x=0.72, space group: R3m, a(Å)=17.9773 and c(Å)=16.978 as a hexagonal setting) in these pseudo binary systems. Eighteen compounds R(A1-xTix)O3+x/2 (R: Lu-Sm and Y, A: Fe, Ga and Al) were newly synthesized and their lattice constants as a hexagonal setting were measured by means of the X-ray powder diffraction method. The R occupies the octahedral site and both A and Ti does the trigonalbipyramidal one in these compounds. Relation between lattice constants for the rhombic R(A1-xTix)O3+x/2 and the monoclinic In(A1-xTix)O3+x/2 are as follows, ah≈5 x bm, ch≈3 x cm x sin β and am=31/2 x bm, where ah and ch are the lattice constants as a hexagonal setting for R(A1-xTix)O3+x/2 and am, bm, cm and β are those of the monoclinic In(A1-xTix)O3+x/2. Crystal structural relationships among α-InGaO3 (hexagonal, high pressure form, space group: P63/mmc), InGaO3 (rhombic, hypothetical), (RAO3)n(BO)m and RAO3(ZnO)m (R: Lu-Ho, Y and In, A: Fe, Ga, and Al, B: divalent cation element, m, n: natural number), the orthorhombic-and monoclinic In(A1-xTix)O3+x/2 (A: Fe, Ga, Al, Cr and Mn) and the hexagonal-and rhombic R(A1-xTix)O3+x/2 (R: Lu-Sm and Y, A: Fe, Ga and Al) are schematically presented. We concluded that the crystal structures of both the α-InGaO3 (high pressure form, hexagonal, space group: P63/mmc) and the hypothetical InGaO3 (rhombic) are the key structures for constructing the crystal structures of these compounds having the cations with CN=5.

Synthesis, spectral and antifungal analysis of diaryldithiophosphates of mono- and dibutyltin(IV): x-ray structure of [{(3,5-CH3)2C6H3O)2PS2}2Sn(nBu)2].

PubMed

Syed, Atiya; Khajuria, Ruchi; Kumar, Sandeep; Jassal, Amanpreet Kaur; Hundal, Maninder S; Pandey, Sushil K

2014-01-01

Diaryldithiophosphate complexes of mono- and dibutyltin(IV) corresponding to [(ArO)(2)PS(2)(n)Sn(nBu)xCl(4-x-n)] (Ar = o-CH(3)C(6)H(4), m-CH(3)C(6)H(4), p-CH(3)C(6)H(4), 4-Cl-3-CH(3)C(6)H(3), (3,5-CH(3))(2)C(6)H(3); n = 1, 2 for x = 1 and n = 2 for x = 2) were successfully isolated and characterized by elemental analyses, IR, multinuclear NMR ((1)H, (13)C, (31)P and (119)Sn) spectroscopy and X-ray analysis. The thermal properties of the complex [(3,5-CH(3))(2)C(6)H(3)O(2)PS(2)](2)Sn(nBu)(2) (12) have been examined by combined DTA/ DTG thermal analyses. Single crystal X-ray analysis of [(3,5-CH(3))(2)C(6)H(3)O(2)PS(2)](2)S(n)(nBu)(2) (12) revealed that two diaryldithiophosphate ions are coordinated to tin atom in an anisobidentate fashion through the sulfur atoms of each dithiophosphate moiety leading to distorted skew-trapezoidal bipyramidal geometry. The antifungal activity depicts that these complexes are active against fungus Penicillium chrysogenium.

Ferroelasticity in palmierite-type(1  -  x)Pb3(PO4)2 - xPb3(AsO4)2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bismayer, Ulli; Mihailova, Boriana; Angel, Ross

2017-06-01

Lead phosphate-arsenate Pb3(P1-x As x O4)2 undergoes an improper ferroelastic phase transition from a rhombohedral paraphase R\\bar{3}m to a monoclinic ferrophase C2/c leading to distinct twin boundary patterns. On cooling compounds with x larger than 0.8 undergo further transitions to monoclinic low-temperature phases, whereas the composition with x  =  0.8 shows order-parameter coupling phenomena. The transformation R\\bar{3}m -C2/c was described on the basis of a three-state Potts model and the existence of precursors of monoclinic clusters in the rhombohedral paraphase. The system is one of the best studied improper ferroelastics. Due to its two-mode phonon behaviour the solid solution exhibits multistep temperature- as well as pressure-driven structural transformations with different length and time scales. Relevant investigations and findings of this palmierite-type material have been made by Prof E K H Salje. Some of the most prominent results from x-ray diffraction, optical microscopy and Raman scattering are reviewed, and the potential implications for domain-wall structures and engineering are discussed.

xHMMER3x2: Utilizing HMMER3's speed and HMMER2's sensitivity and specificity in the glocal alignment mode for improved large-scale protein domain annotation.

PubMed

Yap, Choon-Kong; Eisenhaber, Birgit; Eisenhaber, Frank; Wong, Wing-Cheong

2016-11-29

While the local-mode HMMER3 is notable for its massive speed improvement, the slower glocal-mode HMMER2 is more exact for domain annotation by enforcing full domain-to-sequence alignments. Since a unit of domain necessarily implies a unit of function, local-mode HMMER3 alone remains insufficient for precise function annotation tasks. In addition, the incomparable E-values for the same domain model by different HMMER builds create difficulty when checking for domain annotation consistency on a large-scale basis. In this work, both the speed of HMMER3 and glocal-mode alignment of HMMER2 are combined within the xHMMER3x2 framework for tackling the large-scale domain annotation task. Briefly, HMMER3 is utilized for initial domain detection so that HMMER2 can subsequently perform the glocal-mode, sequence-to-full-domain alignments for the detected HMMER3 hits. An E-value calibration procedure is required to ensure that the search space by HMMER2 is sufficiently replicated by HMMER3. We find that the latter is straightforwardly possible for ~80% of the models in the Pfam domain library (release 29). However in the case of the remaining ~20% of HMMER3 domain models, the respective HMMER2 counterparts are more sensitive. Thus, HMMER3 searches alone are insufficient to ensure sensitivity and a HMMER2-based search needs to be initiated. When tested on the set of UniProt human sequences, xHMMER3x2 can be configured to be between 7× and 201× faster than HMMER2, but with descending domain detection sensitivity from 99.8 to 95.7% with respect to HMMER2 alone; HMMER3's sensitivity was 95.7%. At extremes, xHMMER3x2 is either the slow glocal-mode HMMER2 or the fast HMMER3 with glocal-mode. Finally, the E-values to false-positive rates (FPR) mapping by xHMMER3x2 allows E-values of different model builds to be compared, so that any annotation discrepancies in a large-scale annotation exercise can be flagged for further examination by dissectHMMER. The xHMMER3x2 workflow allows

[Chemical constituents of Cocculus orbiculatus var. mollis root].

PubMed

Liao, Jing; Lei, Yu; Wang, Jian-Zhong

2014-02-01

To study the chemical constituents in the root of Cocculus orbiculatus var. mollis. The compounds were isolated by silica gel chromatography, their structures were established by spectroscopic methods. Eleven compounds were isolated and identified as wattisine A (I), O-methylcocsoline (II), (+) cocsoline (III), (+) cocsuline (IV), magnoflorine (V), sino-coculine (VI), isosinococuline (VII), (-) coclaurine (VIII), daucosterol (IX), beta-sitosterol (X) and 1-oleioyl-3-(9Z, 12Z-arachoyl) glycerol (XI). Compound I is isolated from this genus for the first time,and compound II - XI are isolated from this plant for the first time.

Frustrated magnetism in doped quasi-triangular lattice materials, Cu2(1-x)Zn2x(OH)3NO3/(C7H15COO)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Jian; Werner, Fletcher; Gangopadhyay, Anup K.; Solin, S. A.

2010-03-01

We have performed DC and AC magnetic susceptibility measurements on the spin S=1/2 quasi-triangular lattice materials Cu2(1-x)Zn2x(OH)3NO3/(C7H15COO). The X-ray diffraction experiments reveal that this class of materials has a crystal structure in P21/m space group, in which Cu^2+ and Zn^2+ ions are arranged on a slightly distorted triangular lattice [1]. Cu2(1-)Zn2x(OH)3NO3 with a short inorganic intercalation NO3 group, have a long-range antiferromagnetic order at low temperature. The Neel temperature TN decreases from 11K to 5.6K while the Curie-Weiss temperature increases from -5.1K to +2.8K as the Zn concentration increases from 0 to 65%. After a longer alkanecarboxylate C7H15COO group was introduced into the interlayer space, a spin-glass like behavior in magnetic properties was observed [2]. The value |θcw /TN| is approximately 20, indicating the materials are in a medium level frustrated state. The onset of a ferromagnetic correlation was found in both DC and AC susceptibility data. The interplay of geometrical frustration and the coexistence of ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic couplings has driven the materials into a glassy ground state. [1] G. Linder, et al., Journal of Solid State Chemistry (1995) [2] M. A. Girtu et al, Phys Rev B 61,4117(2000).

Bactericidal Activity of Ceragenin CSA-13 in Cell Culture and in an Animal Model of Peritoneal Infection.

PubMed

Bucki, Robert; Niemirowicz, Katarzyna; Wnorowska, Urszula; Byfield, Fitzroy J; Piktel, Ewelina; Wątek, Marzena; Janmey, Paul A; Savage, Paul B

2015-10-01

Ceragenins constitute a novel family of cationic antibiotics characterized by a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activities, which have mostly been assessed in vitro. Using a polarized human lung epithelial cell culture system, we evaluated the antibacterial activities of the ceragenin CSA-13 against two strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PAO1 and Xen5). Additionally, the biodistribution and bactericidal activity of a CSA-13-IRDye 800CW derivate were assessed using an animal model of peritoneal infection after PAO1 challenge. In cell culture, CSA-13 bactericidal activities against PAO1 and Xen5 were higher than the activities of the human cathelicidin peptide LL-37. Increased CSA-13 activity was observed in polarized human lung epithelial cell cultures subjected to butyric acid treatment, which is known to increase endogenous LL-37 production. Eight hours after intravenous or intraperitoneal injection, the greatest CSA-13-IRDye 800CW accumulation was observed in mouse liver and kidneys. CSA-13-IRDye 800CW administration resulted in decreased bacterial outgrowth from abdominal fluid collected from animals subjected to intraperitoneal PAO1 infection. These observations indicate that CSA-13 may synergistically interact with antibacterial factors that are naturally present at mucosal surfaces and it maintains its antibacterial activity in the infected abdominal cavity. Cationic lipids such as CSA-13 represent excellent candidates for the development of new antibacterial compounds. Copyright © 2015, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

β-(Al{sub x}Ga{sub 1−x}){sub 2}O{sub 3}/Ga{sub 2}O{sub 3} (010) heterostructures grown on β-Ga{sub 2}O{sub 3} (010) substrates by plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kaun, Stephen W., E-mail: skaun@umail.ucsb.edu; Wu, Feng; Speck, James S.

2015-07-15

By systematically changing growth parameters, the growth of β-(Al{sub x}Ga{sub 1−x}){sub 2}O{sub 3}/Ga{sub 2}O{sub 3} (010) heterostructures by plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy was optimized. Through variation of the Al flux under O-rich conditions at 600 °C, β-(Al{sub x}Ga{sub 1−x}){sub 2}O{sub 3} (010) layers spanning ∼10% to ∼18% Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} were grown directly on β-Ga{sub 2}O{sub 3} (010) substrates. Nominal β-(Al{sub x}Ga{sub 1−x}){sub 2}O{sub 3} (010) compositions were determined through Al:Ga flux ratios. With x = ∼0.18, the β-(Al{sub x}Ga{sub 1−x}){sub 2}O{sub 3} (020) layer peak in a high-resolution x-ray diffraction (HRXRD) ω-2θ scan was barely discernible, and Pendellösung fringes were not visible.more » This indicated that the phase stability limit of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} in β-Ga{sub 2}O{sub 3} (010) at 600 °C was less than ∼18%. The substrate temperature was then varied for a series of β-(Al{sub ∼0.15}Ga{sub ∼0.85}){sub 2}O{sub 3} (010) layers, and the smoothest layer was grown at 650 °C. The phase stability limit of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} in β-Ga{sub 2}O{sub 3} (010) appeared to increase with growth temperature, as the β-(Al{sub x}Ga{sub 1−x}){sub 2}O{sub 3} (020) layer peak with x = ∼0.18 was easily distinguishable by HRXRD in a sample grown at 650 °C. Cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy (TEM) indicated that β-(Al{sub ∼0.15}Ga{sub ∼0.85}){sub 2}O{sub 3} (010) layers (14.4% Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} by energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy) grown at 650 °C were homogeneous. β-(Al{sub ∼0.20}Ga{sub ∼0.80}){sub 2}O{sub 3} (010) layers, however, displayed a phase transition. TEM images of a β-(Al{sub ∼0.15}Ga{sub ∼0.85}){sub 2}O{sub 3}/Ga{sub 2}O{sub 3} (010) superlattice grown at 650 °C showed abrupt layer interfaces and high alloy homogeneity.« less

Growth overcompensation against O3 exposure in two Japanese oak species, Quercus mongolica var. crispula and Quercus serrata, grown under elevated CO2.

PubMed

Kitao, Mitsutoshi; Komatsu, Masabumi; Yazaki, Kenichi; Kitaoka, Satoshi; Tobita, Hiroyuki

2015-11-01

To assess the effects of elevated concentrations of carbon dioxide (CO2) and ozone (O3) on the growth of two mid-successional oak species native to East Asia, Quercus mongolica var. crispula and Quercus serrata, we measured gas exchange and biomass allocation in seedlings (initially 1-year-old) grown under combinations of elevated CO2 (550 μmol mol(-1)) and O3 (twice-ambient) for two growing seasons in an open-field experiment in which root growth was not limited. Both the oak species showed a significant growth enhancement under the combination of elevated CO2 and O3 (indicated by total dry mass; over twice of ambient-grown plants, p < .05), which probably resulted from a preferable biomass partitioning into leaves induced by O3 and a predominant enhancement of photosynthesis under elevated CO2. Such an over-compensative response in the two Japanese oak species resulted in greater plant growth under the combination of elevated CO2 and O3 than elevated CO2 alone. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Synthetic, Infrared, 1H and 13C NMR Spectral Studies on N-(2-/3-Substituted Phenyl)-4-Substituted Benzenesulphonamides, 4-X'C6H4SO2NH(2-/3-XC6H4), where X' = H, CH3, C2H5, F, Cl or Br, and X = CH3 or Cl

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gowda, B. Thimme; Shetty, Mahesha; Jayalakshmi, K. L.

2005-02-01

Twenty three N-(2-/3-substituted phenyl)-4-substituted benzenesulphonamides of the general formula, 4-X'C6H4SO2NH(2-/3-XC6H4), where X' = H, CH3, C2H5, F, Cl or Br and X = CH3 or Cl have been prepared and characterized, and their infrared spectra in the solid state, 1H and 13C NMR spectra in solution were studied. The N-H stretching vibrations, νN-H, absorb in the range 3285 - 3199 cm-1, while the asymmetric and symmetric SO2 vibrations vary in the ranges 1376 - 1309 cm-1 and 1177 - 1148 cm-1, respectively. The S-N and C-N stretching vibrations absorb in the ranges 945 - 893 cm-1 and 1304 - 1168 cm-1, respectively. The compounds do not exhibit particular trends in the variation of these frequencies on substitution either at ortho or meta positions with either a methyl group or Cl. The observed 1H and 13C chemical shifts of are assigned to protons and carbons of the two benzene rings. Incremental shifts of the ring protons and carbons due to -SO2NH(2-/3-XC6H4) groups in C6H5SO2NH(2-/3-XC6H4), and 4- X'C6H4SO2- and 4-X'C6H4SO2NH- groups in 4-X'C6H4SO2NH(C6H5) are computed and employed to calculate the chemical shifts of the ring protons and carbons in the substituted compounds, 4-X'C6H4SO2NH(2-/3-XC6H4). The computed values agree well with the observed chemical shifts.

Changes in the Long-Term Intensity Variations in Cygnus X-2 and LMC X-3

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Paul, B.; Kitamoto, S.; Makino, F.

2000-01-01

We report the detection of changes in the long-term intensity variations in two X-ray binaries, Cyg X-2 and LMC X-3. In this work, we have used the long-term light curves obtained with the All-Sky Monitors (ASMs) of the Rossi X-Ray Timing Explorer (RXTE), Ginga, Ariel 5, and Vela 5B and the scanning modulation collimator of HEAO 1. It is found that in the light curves of both the sources, obtained with these instruments at various times over the last 30 years, more than one periodic or quasi-periodic component is always present. The multiple prominent peaks in the periodograms have frequencies unrelated to each other. In Cyg X-2, RXTE-ASM data show strong peaks at 40.4 and 68.8 days, and Ginga-ASM data show strong peaks at 53.7 and 61.3 days. Multiple peaks are also observed in LMC X-3. The various strong peaks in the periodograms of LMC X-3 appear at 104, 169, and 216 days (observed with RXTE-ASM) and 105, 214, and 328 days (observed with Ginga-ASM). The present results, when compared with the earlier observations of periodicities in these two systems, demonstrate the absence of any stable long period. The 78 day periodicity detected earlier in Cyg X-2 was probably due to the short time base in the RXTE data that were used, and the periodicity of 198 days in LMC X-3 was due to a relatively short duration of observation with HEAO 1.

Experimental evidence for the magnetic moment directions of Cr2+ and Cr3+ cations in the spinel ferrites Cux1Crx2Fe3-x1-x2O4

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, X. Y.; Xu, J.; Li, Z. Z.; Qi, W. H.; Tang, G. D.; Shang, Z. F.; Ji, D. H.; Lang, L. L.

2014-08-01

(A)[B]2O4 spinel ferrite samples with the composition Cux1Crx2Fe3-x1-x2O4 (0.0≤x1≤0.284 and 1.04≥x2≥0.656) were prepared by a chemical co-precipitation method. X-ray diffraction patterns indicated that the samples had a single-phase cubic spinel structure. It is interesting that the saturation magnetization of the samples increased when Cu2+ or Cu3+ (with 1 or 2μB of magnetic moment) substituted for Cr2+ or Cr3+ (with 4 or 3μB), which cannot be obviously explained if the magnetic moments of Cr2+ and Cr3+ cations are assumed to be parallel to those of the Fe and Cu cations. However, with the assumption that the magnetic moments of Cr2+ and Cr3+ cations are antiparallel to the Fe and Cu cation moments in spinel ferrites, the dependence on the Cu doping level of the sample magnetic moments at 10 K was fitted successfully, using the quantum-mechanical potential barrier model earlier proposed by our group. Using the cation distributions obtained in the fitting process, the experimental observation that the magnetic moment of the samples increased with increasing Cu doping level was explained. This work therefore provides experimental evidence that the magnetic moments of the Cr2+ and Cr3+ cations are antiparallel to those of the Fe and Cu cations in spinel ferrites.

Optical properties of (AlxGa1-x)2O3 on sapphire

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Zhuangzhuang; Feng, Qian; Zhang, Jincheng; Li, Fuguo; Li, Xiang; Feng, Zhaoqing; Zhang, Chunfu; Hao, Yue

2018-02-01

The (AlxGa1-x)2O3 and Ga2O3 films are epitaxially grown on sapphire by pulsed laser deposition (PLD). From X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and X-ray diffraction measurements, the (AlxGa1-x)2O3 films with Al compositions of 0.39, 0.49 and up to 0.53 are all single crystal and there is an out-of-plane tensile strain in (AlxGa1-x)2O3 films within the range from 0.164% to 0.345%. The optical properties are investigated by Spectral Ellipsometry (SE) together with the optical transmission method. The spectral dependence of the refractive index (n) by SE is in accordance with the reported experiment results. The thicknesses of the Ga2O3 and (AlxGa1-x)2O3 films obtained by SE fitting are 201, 116.8, 40 and 84.61 nm, respectively, which is consistent with the field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) measurement results. In addition, with the Al composition increasing, the bandgaps of the (AlxGa1-x)2O3 films determined from the SE are both increase from 4.95 to 5.49, 5.7 and 5.75 eV, almost identical to the values determined by the transmittance spectra, which is larger than some extent compared to reference [13] for the compressive strain in the (AlxGa1-x)2O3 films.

Probing structural changes in Ca(1-x)Nd2x/3TiO3 ceramics by Raman spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lowndes, Robert; Deluca, Marco; Azough, Feridoon; Freer, Robert

2013-01-01

Ceramics in the system Ca(1-x)Nd2x/3TiO3, intended for mobile communication applications, exhibit grossly non-linear variations in microwave dielectric properties with composition. There is evidence of a structural transition and the formation of vacancies on the A-site of the perovskite structure. High density, single phase perovskite Ca(1-x)Nd2x/3TiO3 ceramics have been prepared by the mixed oxide route. Raman spectroscopy was used to investigate the structural variations, which impact on dielectric properties. The Raman spectra show that with increasing Nd content, there is a transition from an ordered structure, to a disordered arrangement of cations and vacancies, and back to an ordered arrangement in Ca0.1Nd0.6TiO3. A structural phase transition from orthorhombic Pbnm to monoclinic C2/m coincides with the order-disorder transition at Ca0.1Nd0.6TiO3. Polarized Raman spectroscopy facilitated the assignment of the Raman modes and investigation of the role of importance of domain structures. Large variation in the plane angles was attributed to differences in domain structures. Differences in the angular dependence of the Raman modes with Nd content reflect changes in the preferred orientation of the domains from lamellar twins, to wedge shaped and back to lamellar twins.

Atmospheric fate of hydrofluoroolefins, CxF2x+1CHCH2 (x = 1,2,3,4 and 6): Kinetics with Cl atoms and products.

PubMed

Ballesteros, Bernabé; Jiménez, Elena; Moreno, Alberto; Soto, Amparo; Antiñolo, María; Albaladejo, José

2017-01-01

Rate coefficients for the gas-phase reactions of C x F 2x+1 CHCH 2 (x = 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6) with Cl atoms were determined at (298 ± 2) K and (710 ± 5) Torr of air using a relative rate technique. Two experimental setups with simulation chambers were employed with Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and Gas Chromatography coupled to Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) as detection techniques. The Cl-rate coefficients obtained were (in 10 -10  cm 3  molecule -1  s -1 ): (0.85 ± 0.11) for CF 3 CHCH 2 , (1.11 ± 0.08) for C 2 F 5 CHCH 2 , (1.12 ± 0.18) for C 3 F 7 CHCH 2 , (0.97 ± 0.09) for C 4 F 9 CHCH 2 , and (0.99 ± 0.08) for C 6 F 13 CHCH 2 . Additionally, the gas-phase products were identified and quantified, when possible, by FTIR spectroscopy or GC-MS. The main reaction product was reported to be C x F 2x+1 C(O)CH 2 Cl. The fluorinated species, C x F 2x+1 CHO and C x F 2x+1 C(O)CH 2 Cl, were identified. CF 3 C(O)CH 2 Cl and CF 3 CHO were found to be formed with molar yield of (69 ± 5)% and (9 ± 1)%, respectively. The global lifetime of the investigated C x F 2x+1 CHCH 2 due to their Cl-reaction is more than 100 days so this route does not compete with the removal by OH radicals. This lifetime is long enough for C x F 2x+1 CHCH 2 to be transported to remote areas where they can be degraded. However, at a local scale, in marine regions at dawn the removal of C x F 2x+1 CHCH 2 is expected to occur in ca. 1 day. The atmospheric degradation of these hydrofluoroolefins by Cl atoms is not expected to be a source of bioaccumulative perfluorinated carboxylic acids, C x F 2x+1 C(O)OH. Additionally, the UV absorption cross sections of CF 3 C(O)CH 2 Cl were determined together with the rate coefficient of the OH reaction by an absolute kinetic method at room temperature. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Demonstration of β-(AlxGa1-x)2O3/Ga2O3 double heterostructure field effect transistors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Yuewei; Joishi, Chandan; Xia, Zhanbo; Brenner, Mark; Lodha, Saurabh; Rajan, Siddharth

2018-06-01

In this work, we demonstrate modulation-doped β-(AlxGa1-x)2O3/Ga2O3 double heterostructure field effect transistors. The maximum sheet carrier density for a two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) in a β-(AlxGa1-x)2O3/Ga2O3 heterostructure is limited by the conduction band offset and parasitic channel formation in the barrier layer. We demonstrate a double heterostructure to realize a β-(AlxGa1-x)2O3/Ga2O3/(AlxGa1-x)2O3 quantum well, where electrons can be transferred from below and above the β-Ga2O3 quantum well. The confined 2DEG charge density of 3.85 × 1012 cm-2 was estimated from the low-temperature Hall measurement, which is higher than that achievable in a single heterostructure. Hall mobilities of 1775 cm2/V.s at 40 K and 123 cm2/V.s at room temperature were measured. Modulation-doped double heterostructure field effect transistors showed a maximum drain current of IDS = 257 mA/mm, a peak transconductance (gm) of 39 mS/mm, and a pinch-off voltage of -7.0 V at room temperature. The three-terminal off-state breakdown measurement on the device with a gate-drain spacing (LGD) of 1.55 μm showed a breakdown voltage of 428 V, corresponding to an average breakdown field of 2.8 MV/cm. The breakdown measurement on the device with a scaled gate-drain spacing of 196 nm indicated an average breakdown field of 3.2 MV/cm. The demonstrated modulation-doped β-(AlxGa1-x)2O3/Ga2O3 double heterostructure field effect transistor could act as a promising candidate for high power and high frequency device applications.

Complete mitochondrial genome of Xingguo red carp (Cyprinus carpio var. singuonensis) and purse red carp (Cyprinus carpio var. wuyuanensis).

PubMed

Hu, Guang-Fu; Liu, Xiang-Jiang; Li, Zhong; Liang, Hong-Wei; Hu, Shao-Na; Zou, Gui-Wei

2016-01-01

The complete mitochondrial genomes of Xingguo red carp (Cyprinus carpio var. singuonensis) and purse red carp (Cyprinus carpio var. wuyuanensis) were sequenced. Comparison of these two mitochondrial genomes revealed that the mtDNAs of these two common carp varieties were remarkably similar in genome length, gene order and content, and AT content. However, size variation between these two mitochondrial genomes presented here showed 39 site differences in overall length. About 2 site differences were located in rRNAs, 3 in tRNAs, 3 in the control region, 31 in protein-coding genes. Thirty-one variable bases in the protein-coding regions between the two varieties mitochondrial sequences led to three variable amino acids, which were mainly located in the protein ND5 and ND4.

Polycrystalline (TbXY1-X)2O3 Faraday rotator.

PubMed

Ikesue, Akio; Aung, Yan Lin; Makikawa, Shinji; Yahagi, Akira

2017-11-01

We have succeeded for the first time in synthesizing an optical grade (Tb X Y 1-X ) 2 O 3 (X=0.5-1.0) ceramic Faraday rotator, which greatly exceeds the basic characteristics of the commercial terbium gallium garnet (TGG) (Tb 3 Ga 5 O 12 ) crystal. The Faraday rotation angle increased as the Tb concentration increased, and the Verdet constant increased from 2.1 (82  rad T -1  m -1 at X=0.5) to 3.8 times (154  rad T -1  m -1 at X=1.0) than the TGG single crystal, which is regarded as highest class. Therefore, it is possible to minimize the Faraday rotator length and the magnet in building an optical isolator. It was also confirmed that its optical quality was very comparable to the commercial TGG crystal.

Structure and properties of hopeites (Mg xZn 1- x) 3(PO 4) 2 · 4H 2O

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Haussühl, S.; Middendorf, B.; Dörffel, M.

1991-07-01

Mg-hopeites (Mg xZn 1- x) 3(PO 4) 2 · 4H 2O were prepared by crystallization from hot aqueous solutions (70°C). The structure of (Mg 0.206Zn 0.794) 3(PO 4) 2 · 4H 2O has been determined from 1612 unique reflections (MoKα, R = 0.033): Pnma, a1 = 10.594(2), a2 = 18.333(2), a3 = 5.029(2)Å, Z = 4, Dcalc = 2.943g cm -3. The structure resembles that of pure hopeite. However, the magnesium atoms occupy only the sixcoordinated site. The thermal behavior of hopeites is strongly influenced by the substitution of Zn by Mg. The dehydration range is shifted to higher temperatures with increasing Mg content. A strongly anisotropic thermal expansion was measured by X-ray diffraction in a temperature range of -40° to 50°C. Experiments to substitute Zn by Ca, Sr, and Ba in the hopeite failed. A hitherto unknown monoclinic phase with the composition BaZn 2(PO 4) 2 · H 2O and a1 = 4.707(2), a2 = 7.840(2), a3 = 8.061(3)Å, and α 2 = 88.99(4)° was found.

VarBin, a novel method for classifying true and false positive variants in NGS data

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Variant discovery for rare genetic diseases using Illumina genome or exome sequencing involves screening of up to millions of variants to find only the one or few causative variant(s). Sequencing or alignment errors create "false positive" variants, which are often retained in the variant screening process. Methods to remove false positive variants often retain many false positive variants. This report presents VarBin, a method to prioritize variants based on a false positive variant likelihood prediction. Methods VarBin uses the Genome Analysis Toolkit variant calling software to calculate the variant-to-wild type genotype likelihood ratio at each variant change and position divided by read depth. The resulting Phred-scaled, likelihood-ratio by depth (PLRD) was used to segregate variants into 4 Bins with Bin 1 variants most likely true and Bin 4 most likely false positive. PLRD values were calculated for a proband of interest and 41 additional Illumina HiSeq, exome and whole genome samples (proband's family or unrelated samples). At variant sites without apparent sequencing or alignment error, wild type/non-variant calls cluster near -3 PLRD and variant calls typically cluster above 10 PLRD. Sites with systematic variant calling problems (evident by variant quality scores and biases as well as displayed on the iGV viewer) tend to have higher and more variable wild type/non-variant PLRD values. Depending on the separation of a proband's variant PLRD value from the cluster of wild type/non-variant PLRD values for background samples at the same variant change and position, the VarBin method's classification is assigned to each proband variant (Bin 1 to Bin 4). Results To assess VarBin performance, Sanger sequencing was performed on 98 variants in the proband and background samples. True variants were confirmed in 97% of Bin 1 variants, 30% of Bin 2, and 0% of Bin 3/Bin 4. Conclusions These data indicate that VarBin correctly classifies the majority of true

Synthesis, Crystal and Electronic Structures, and Optical Properties of (CH 3NH 3) 2CdX 4 (X = Cl, Br, I)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Roccanova, Rachel; Ming, Wenmei; Whiteside, Vincent R.

Here, we report the synthesis, crystal and electronic structures, as well as optical properties of the hybrid organic–inorganic compounds MA 2CdX 4 (MA = CH 3NH 3; X = Cl, Br, I). MA 2CdI 4 is a new compound, whereas, for MA 2CdCl 4 and MA 2CdBr 4, structural investigations have already been conducted but electronic structures and optical properties are reported here for the first time. Single crystals were grown through slow evaporation of MA 2CdX 4 solutions with optimized conditions yielding mm-sized colorless (X = Cl, Br) and pale yellow (X = I) crystals. Single crystal and variablemore » temperature powder X-ray diffraction measurements suggest that MA 2CdCl 4 forms a 2D layered perovskite structure and has two structural transitions at 283 and 173 K. In contrast, MA 2CdBr 4 and MA 2CdI 4 adopt 0D K 2SO 4-derived crystal structures based on isolated CdX 4 tetrahedra and show no phase transitions down to 20 K. The contrasting crystal structures and chemical compositions in the MA 2CdX 4 family impact their air stabilities, investigated for the first time in this work; MA 2CdCl 4 is air-stable, whereas MA 2CdBr 4 and MA 2CdI 4 partially decompose when left in air. Optical absorption measurements suggest that MA 2CdX 4 have large optical band gaps above 3.9 eV. Room temperature photoluminescence spectra of MA 2CdX 4 yield broad peaks in the 375–955 nm range with full width at half-maximum values up to 208 nm. These PL peaks are tentatively assigned to self-trapped excitons in MA 2CdX 4 following the crystal and electronic structure considerations. The bands around the Fermi level have small dispersions, which is indicative of high charge localization with significant exciton binding energies in MA 2CdX 4. On the basis of our combined experimental and computational results, MA 2CdX 4 and related compounds may be of interest for white-light-emitting phosphors and scintillator applications.« less

Synthesis, Crystal and Electronic Structures, and Optical Properties of (CH 3NH 3) 2CdX 4 (X = Cl, Br, I)

DOE PAGES

Roccanova, Rachel; Ming, Wenmei; Whiteside, Vincent R.; ...

2017-11-02

Here, we report the synthesis, crystal and electronic structures, as well as optical properties of the hybrid organic–inorganic compounds MA 2CdX 4 (MA = CH 3NH 3; X = Cl, Br, I). MA 2CdI 4 is a new compound, whereas, for MA 2CdCl 4 and MA 2CdBr 4, structural investigations have already been conducted but electronic structures and optical properties are reported here for the first time. Single crystals were grown through slow evaporation of MA 2CdX 4 solutions with optimized conditions yielding mm-sized colorless (X = Cl, Br) and pale yellow (X = I) crystals. Single crystal and variablemore » temperature powder X-ray diffraction measurements suggest that MA 2CdCl 4 forms a 2D layered perovskite structure and has two structural transitions at 283 and 173 K. In contrast, MA 2CdBr 4 and MA 2CdI 4 adopt 0D K 2SO 4-derived crystal structures based on isolated CdX 4 tetrahedra and show no phase transitions down to 20 K. The contrasting crystal structures and chemical compositions in the MA 2CdX 4 family impact their air stabilities, investigated for the first time in this work; MA 2CdCl 4 is air-stable, whereas MA 2CdBr 4 and MA 2CdI 4 partially decompose when left in air. Optical absorption measurements suggest that MA 2CdX 4 have large optical band gaps above 3.9 eV. Room temperature photoluminescence spectra of MA 2CdX 4 yield broad peaks in the 375–955 nm range with full width at half-maximum values up to 208 nm. These PL peaks are tentatively assigned to self-trapped excitons in MA 2CdX 4 following the crystal and electronic structure considerations. The bands around the Fermi level have small dispersions, which is indicative of high charge localization with significant exciton binding energies in MA 2CdX 4. On the basis of our combined experimental and computational results, MA 2CdX 4 and related compounds may be of interest for white-light-emitting phosphors and scintillator applications.« less

Interleukin-13-induced MUC5AC expression is regulated by a PI3K–NFAT3 pathway in mouse tracheal epithelial cells

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yan, Fugui; Li, Wen; Zhou, Hongbin

Highlights: • IL-13 specifically induced NFAT3 activation in mouse tracheal epithelial cells. • CsA and LY294002 significantly blocked IL-13-induced MUC5AC production. • The PI3K–NFAT3 pathway is positively involved in IL-13-induced MUC5AC production. - Abstract: Interleukin-13 (IL-13) plays a critical role in asthma mucus overproduction, while the mechanisms underlying this process are not fully elucidated. Previous studies showed that nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT) is involved in the pathogenesis of asthma, but whether it can directly regulate IL-13-induced mucus (particularly MUC5AC) production is still not clear. Here we showed that IL-13 specifically induced NFAT3 activation through promoting its dephosphorylationmore » in air–liquid interface (ALI) cultures of mouse tracheal epithelial cells (mTECs). Furthermore, both Cyclosporin A (CsA, a specific NFAT inhibitor) and LY294002 (a Phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor) significantly blocked IL-13-induced MUC5AC mRNA and protein production through the inhibition of NFAT3 activity. We also confirmed that CsA could not influence the forkhead Box A2 (Foxa2) and mouse calcium dependent chloride channel 3 (mClca3) expression in IL-13-induced MUC5AC production, which both are known to be important in IL-13-stimulated mucus expression. Our study is the first to demonstrate that the PI3K–NFAT3 pathway is positively involved in IL-13-induced mucus production, and provided novel insights into the molecular mechanism of asthma mucus hypersecretion.« less

Screaming Body and Silent Healthcare Providers: A Case Study with a Childhood Sexual Abuse (CSA) Survivor

PubMed Central

Sigurdardottir, Sigrun; Halldorsdottir, Sigridur

2018-01-01

Stressful early life experiences cause immune dysregulation across the lifespan. Despite the fact that studies have identified childhood sexual abuse (CSA) survivors as a particularly vulnerable group, only a few attempts have been made to study their lived-experience of the physical health consequences of CSA. The aim of this study was to explore a female CSA survivor’s lived-experience of the physical health consequences of CSA and how she experienced the reactions of healthcare providers. Seven interviews were conducted with this 40-year-old woman, Anne, using a phenomenological research approach. Anne was still a young child (two to three years old) when her father started to rape her. Since her childhood, she has experienced complex and widespread physical health consequences such as repeated vaginal and abdominal infections, widespread and chronic pain, sleeping problems, digestive problems, chronic back problems, fibromyalgia, musculoskeletal problems, repeated urinary tract infections, cervical dysplasia, inflammation of the Fallopian tubes, menorrhagia, endometrial hyperplasia, chlamydia, ovarian cysts, ectopic pregnancies, uterus problems, severe adhesions, and ovarian cancer. Anne disclosed her CSA experience to several healthcare providers but they were silent and failed to provide trauma-informed care. Anne’s situation, albeit unique, might reflect similar problems in other female CSA survivors. PMID:29316709

Phase transformation in (0.90- x)Pb(Mg 1/3Nb 2/3)O 3- xPbTiO 3-0.10PbZrO 3 piezoelectric ceramic: X-ray diffraction and Raman investigation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xia, Zhiguo; Li, Qiang

2007-05-01

Piezoelectric ceramics with compositions of (0.90- x)Pb(Mg 1/3Nb 2/3)O 3- xPbTiO 3-0.10PbZrO 3, x=0.28, 0.31, 0.34, 0.37, 0.40 and 0.43, were prepared using the conventional columbite precursor method, and their structural phase transformation and piezoelectric behaviors near the morphotropic phase boundary (MPB) have been systematically investigated as a function of PbTiO 3 content. X-ray diffraction (XRD) results demonstrate that the structure of the ceramics experiences a gradual transition process from rhombohedral phase to tetragonal phase with the increasing of PbTiO 3 content, and that compositions with x=0.34-0.40 lie in the MPB region of this ternary system. A Raman spectra investigation of the ceramic samples testified to the transformation process of rhombohedral phase to tetragonal phase by comparing the relative intensities of tetragonal E(2TO 1) mode and rhombohedral phase R h mode. The structure information was also correlated to the parabola change of the piezoelectric constant; the maximum piezoelectric constants were obtained near the MPB region.