The synthesis and characterization of cyanobiphenyl-based liquid crystal dimers containing sulfur links between the spacer and mesogenic units are described. Resonant x-ray scattering studies of the twist-bend nematic phase at both the carbon and sulfur absorption edges were performed to determine the critical behaviour of the helical pitch at the transition to the nematic phase. Read more »
Journal Covers
Shape transformation and self-alignment of Fe-based nanoparticles
Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) have widespread applications in biotechnology, materials science, engineering, and environmental studies. Thus, much attention has been paid to their controllable synthesis. Three new functions of iron-based nanoparticles are reported: shape transformation, oxidation prevention, and self-alignment. Read more »
The Stomatopod Telson: Convergent Evolution in the Development of a Biological Shield
In this article, researchers identify multiscale structure‐mechanical property relationships within the shield-like exoskeletal telson structure of the mantis shrimp, used for defense and protection. Comparison of telsons from two evolutionarily divergent species reveal differences in macromorphology, cuticle thickness, and mineralization, imparting compressive stiffness as well as compliance for energy absorption. Read more »
Heliconical-layered nanocylinders (HLNCs) – hierarchical self-assembly in a unique B4 phase liquid crystal morphology
Morphology is of critical importance for molecular crystals, drug molecules, alloys, and elements in the periodic table. We here demonstrate how very subtle structural changes in a set of bent-core liquid crystals lead to rather complex hierarchical superstructures driven by changes in molecular conformation. Read more »
Peroxy self-reaction leading to the formation of furfural
Furan and its alkyl derivatives, such as methylfuran (2MF), have been identified as valid alternative biofuels. This study focuses on the self-reaction of the peroxy radical generated in the first oxidation step of 2MF. The mass spectrometry data reveal that furfural is the dominant product of 2MF oxidation. Various reaction mechanisms for furfural formation are proposed here. Read more »
Self-Assembling 2D Arrays with de Novo Protein Building Blocks
Modular self-assembly of biomolecules in two dimensions (2D) is straightforward with DNA but has been difficult to realize with proteins, due to the lack of modular specificity similar to Watson–Crick base pairing. Here, researchers describe a general approach to designing 2D arrays using de novo designed pseudosymmetric protein building blocks. Read more »
Exploring the “minimal” structure of a functional ADAMTS13 by mutagenesis and small-angle X-ray scattering
Researchers used the SIBYLS beamline to gain insight into ADAMTS13, the only known protein to regulate the adhesive function of von Willebrand factor (VWF), a blood-clotting protein. When VWF is deficient or abnormal, it causes a common inherited bleeding disorder, von Willebrand disease. VWF is also implicated in arterial and deep-vein thrombosis, stroke, atherosclerosis, sickle cell crisis, and sepsis. Read more »
Design and Synthesis of Selective Phosphodiesterase 4D (PDE4D) Allosteric Inhibitors for the Treatment of Fragile X Syndrome and Other Brain Disorders
PDE4D enzymes are important for normal brain function. Mutations have been asssociated with an ultrarare neurodevelopmental disorder, and genetic variation in PDE4D contributes to biological variation in human cognitive ability. Here, researchers report on novel PDE4D inhibitors providing potent memory-enhancing effects in a mouse model, with improved tolerability and reduced vascular toxicity over earlier PDE4 inhibitors. Read more »
Structural Characterization of a Synthetic Tandem-Domain Bacterial Microcompartment Shell Protein Capable of Forming Icosahedral Shell Assemblies
Bacterial microcompartments (BMCs) are subcellular compartments found in many prokaryotes, and they are of considerable interest for biotechnological applications. The BMC-H2 shell system constitutes a relatively simple generic building block that could be used to construct designed shells with a relatively highly tunable pore. Read more »
Mechanical Competence and Bone Quality Develop During Skeletal Growth
Researchers explored how bone quality and mechanical competence progress during longitudinal bone growth. Deformation at the tissue, fibril, and mineral length scales was investigated with mechanical tensile tests during small and wide-angle x-ray scattering/diffraction (SAXS/WAXD) experiments, revealing dramatic differences in mechanical resistance with age. Read more »
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