bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Induction of Immune Surveillance of the Dysmorphogenic Lens
Authors: Logan Caitlin M. , Bowen Caitlin J. , Menko A. Sue
Published: November 2017

The lens has been considered to be an immune privileged site not susceptible to the immune processes normally associated with tissue injury and wound repair. However, as greater insight into the immune surveillance process is gained, we have reevaluated the concept of immune privilege. Our studies using an N-cadherin lens-specific conditional knockout mouse, N-cadΔlens, show that loss of this cell-cell junctional protein leads to lens degeneration, necrosis and fibrotic change, postnatally. The degeneration of this tissue induces an immune response resulting in immune cells populating the lens that contribute to the development of fibrosis. Additionally, we demonstrate that the lens is connected to the lymphatic system, with LYVE(+) labeling reaching the lens along the suspensory ligaments that connect the lens to the ciliary body, providing a potential mechanism for the immune circulation. Importantly, we observe that degeneration of the lens activates an immune response throughout the eye, including cornea, vitreous humor, and retina, suggesting a coordinated protective response in the visual system to defects of a component tissue. These studies demonstrate that lens degeneration induces an immune response that can contribute to the fibrosis that often accompanies lens dysgenesis, a consideration for understanding organ system response to injury.
A comparison of micro-CT and histomorphometry for evaluation of osseointegration of PEO-coated titanium implants in a rat model
Authors: He Tao , Cao Cong , Xu Zhiguo , Li Gen , Cao Huiliang , Liu Xuanyong , Zhang Chao , Dong Yuqi
Published: November 2017

The aim of the present study was to determine the correlation between bone volume density (BV/TV) around a titanium implant determined by micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and bone area density (BA/TA) measurements obtained using histomorphometry. An intramedullary rat femur implant model was evaluated to compare raw titanium implants with plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO)-coated titanium implants. Titanium and PEO-treated titanium pins were inserted into rat femurs under general anesthesia. The animals were sacrificed and femurs harvested at 0, 2, 4 and 6 weeks, and subsequently, histomorphometry and micro-CT were performed. BV/TV and BA/TA values were strongly and positively correlated at all time points and locations (with all correlation coefficients being >0.8 and with P < 0.001). BV/TV and BA/TA were significantly higher proximal to the growth plate than distal to the growth plate, with estimated differences of 14.10% (P < 0.001) and 11.95% (P < 0.001), respectively. BV/TV and BA/TA were significantly higher on the PEO-coated surface than on the raw titanium surface, with estimated differences of 3.20% (P = 0.044) and 4.10% (P = 0.018), respectively. Therefore, quantitative micro-CT analysis of BV/TV is correlated with BA/TA determined by histomorphometry when artifacts around titanium implants are minimized by a region of interest modification.
A micro-Raman study of exfoliated few-layered n-type Bi2 Te2.7Se0.3
Authors: Liu Fengjiao , Hu Longyu , Karakaya Mehmet , Puneet Pooja , Rao Rahul , Podila Ramakrishna , Bhattacharya Sriparna , Rao Apparao M.
Published: November 2017

Previously we showed that the thermoelectric (TE) performance of bulk n-type Bi2Te2.7Se0.3 can be enhanced by subjecting it to a combined process of chemical or mechanical exfoliation (C/ME) followed by a rapid densification and restacking of the exfoliated layers via the spark-plasma-sintering technique (SPS). Here, we present a systematic micro-Raman study of two-dimensional flakes of n-type Bi2Te2.7Se0.3 produced by the C/ME process, as a function of the flake thickness. We found Raman evidence for flakes with: (i) integer number of quintuples which exhibited a strong electron-phonon coupling, and (ii) non-integer number of quintuples, or sub-quintuples which exhibited the forbidden IR active mode due to symmetry lowering. Detailed atomic force microscopy was used to confirm the number of quintuples in all flakes examined in this study. The restacking and densification of these flakes by SPS promoted the formation of charged grain boundaries, which led to the enhanced TE properties via the energy filtering process.
New Early Cretaceous palaeomagnetic and geochronological results from the far western Lhasa terrane: Contributions to the Lhasa-Qiangtang collision
Authors: Bian Weiwei , Yang Tianshui , Ma Yiming , Jin Jingjie , Gao Feng , Zhang Shihong , Wu Huaichun , Li Haiyan
Published: November 2017

To better constrain the Lhasa-Qiangtang collision, a combined palaeomagnetic and geochronological study of the far western Lhasa terrane was conducted on the Duoai Formation lava flows (~113–116 Ma), as well as on the Early Cretaceous Jiega Formation limestone. Following detailed rock magnetic, petrographical, and palaeomagnetic experiments, characteristic remanent magnetisation directions were successfully isolated from most samples using principal component analysis. The tilt-corrected direction groups yielded a palaeopole at 69.1°N, 319.8°E with A95 = 4.8° (N = 19). A primary origin for the magnetisation is consistent with positive fold tests. Our results from the Early Cretaceous units, combined with published palaeomagnetic data obtained from Cretaceous strata from the Lhasa and western Qiangtang terranes, show that these two terranes had already collided by the Early Cretaceous, the Lhasa terrane had a relatively east-west alignment, and it remained at a relatively stable palaeolatitude during the entire Cretaceous. Comparing the Cretaceous palaeolatitude calculated for the western Lhasa terrane with those from Eurasia and Mongolia suggests a latitudinal convergence of ~1400 ± 290 km and ~1800 ± 300 km, respectively, since the Early Cretaceous.
Stiffness-dependent motility and proliferation uncoupled by deletion of CD44
Authors: Razinia Ziba , Castagnino Paola , Xu Tina , Vázquez-Salgado Alexandra , Puré Ellen , Assoian Richard K.
Published: November 2017

Information in the microenvironment guides complex cellular decisions such as whether or not to proliferate and migrate. The effects of soluble extracellular signals on these cellular functions are fairly well understood, but relatively little is known about how the extracellular matrix (ECM), and particularly the mechanical information in the ECM, guides these cellular decisions. Here, we show that CD44, a major receptor for the glycosaminoglycan ECM component hyaluronan, coordinates the motility and proliferative responses to ECM stiffening. We analyzed these cellular responses on fibronectin-coated polyacrylamide hydrogels prepared at a physiologic range of ECM stiffness and found that stiffening of the ECM leads to both cell cycling and cell motility in serum-stimulated primary mouse dermal fibroblasts. Remarkably, deletion of CD44 impaired stiffness-stimulated motility of the primary cells without affecting other hallmark cellular responses to ECM stiffening including cell spread area, stress fiber formation, focal adhesion maturation, and intracellular stiffening. Even stiffness-mediated cell proliferation was unaffected by deletion of CD44. Our results reveal a novel effect of CD44, which is imposed downstream of ECM-mechanosensing and determines if cells couple or uncouple their proliferative and motility responses to ECM stiffness.
Inhalation Exposure to PM2.5 Counteracts Hepatic Steatosis in Mice Fed High-fat Diet by Stimulating Hepatic Autophagy
Authors: Qiu Yining , Zheng Ze , Kim Hyunbae , Yang Zhao , Zhang Gary , Shi Xiangyang , Sun Fei , Peng Changya , Ding Yuchuan , Wang Aixia , Chen Lung-Chi , Rajagopalan Sanjay , Sun Qinghua , Zhang Kezhong
Published: November 2017

Air pollution is associated with the increased risk of metabolic syndrome. In this study, we performed inhalation exposure of mice fed normal chow or a high-fat diet to airborne fine particulate matters (PM2.5), and then investigated the complex effects and mechanisms of inhalation exposure to PM2.5 on hepatic steatosis, a precursor or manifestation of metabolic syndrome. Our studies demonstrated that inhalation exposure of mice fed normal chow to concentrated ambient PM2.5 repressed hepatic transcriptional regulators involved in fatty acid oxidation and lipolysis, and thus promoted hepatic steatosis. However, PM2.5 exposure relieved hepatic steatosis in high-fat diet-induced obese mice. Further investigation revealed that inhalation exposure to PM2.5 induced hepatic autophagy in mouse livers in a manner depending on the MyD88-mediated inflammatory pathway. The counteractive effect of PM2.5 exposure on high-fat diet-induced hepatic steatosis was mediated through PM2.5-induced hepatic autophagy. The findings from this study not only defined the effects and mechanisms of PM2.5 exposure in metabolic disorders, but also revealed the pleotrophic acts of an environmental stressor in a complex stress system relevant to public health.
Dependence of the sliding distance of a one-dimensional atom chain on initial velocity
Authors: Li Jian-Wen , Wang Tong-Biao , Liu Nian-Hua , Yu Tianbao
Published: November 2017

In our daily lives, a body with a high initial velocity sliding freely on a rough surface moves a longer distance than that with a low initial velocity. However, such a phenomenon may not occur in the microscopic world. The dynamical behavior of a one-dimensional atom chain (1DAC) sliding on a substrate is investigated in this study by using a modified Frenkel–Kontorova model, in which the vibration of atoms on the substrate is considered. The dependence of sliding distance on initial velocity is examined. Result shows that although sliding distance is proportional to the initial value for most velocities, such a linear relation does not exist in some special velocities. This phenomenon is explained by a theoretical analysis of phonon excitation. The physical process is divided into three stages. The first stage is a superlubric sliding process with small amplitude of the vibrication of the atoms. The single-mode phonon is excited in the second stage. In the third stage, the system exhibits instability because of multiple-mode phonon excitations. In addition, the dependence of the coupling strength between 1DAC and the substrate is investigated. The findings are helpful in understanding the energy dissipation mechanism of friction.
propr: An R-package for Identifying Proportionally Abundant Features Using Compositional Data Analysis
Authors: Quinn Thomas P. , Richardson Mark F. , Lovell David , Crowley Tamsyn M.
Published: November 2017

In the life sciences, many assays measure only the relative abundances of components in each sample. Such data, called compositional data, require special treatment to avoid misleading conclusions. Awareness of the need for caution in analyzing compositional data is growing, including the understanding that correlation is not appropriate for relative data. Recently, researchers have proposed proportionality as a valid alternative to correlation for calculating pairwise association in relative data. Although the question of how to best measure proportionality remains open, we present here a computationally efficient R package that implements three measures of proportionality. In an effort to advance the understanding and application of proportionality analysis, we review the mathematics behind proportionality, demonstrate its application to genomic data, and discuss some ongoing challenges in the analysis of relative abundance data.
Baculovirus-Mediated miR-214 Knockdown Shifts Osteoporotic ASCs Differentiation and Improves Osteoporotic Bone Defects Repair
Authors: Li Kuei-Chang , Chang Yu-Han , Hsu Mu-Nung , Lo Shih-Chun , Li Wan-Hua , Hu Yu-Chen
Published: November 2017

Osteoporotic patients often suffer from bone fracture but its healing is compromised due to impaired osteogenesis potential of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). Here we aimed to exploit adipose-derived stem cells from ovariectomized rats (OVX-ASCs) for bone healing. We unraveled that OVX-ASCs highly expressed miR-214 and identified 2 miR-214 targets: CTNNB1 (β-catenin) and TAB2. We demonstrated that miR-214 targeting of these two genes blocked the Wnt pathway, led to preferable adipogenesis and hindered osteogenesis. As a result, OVX-ASCs implantation into OVX rats failed to heal critical-size metaphyseal bone defects. We further engineered the OVX-ASCs with a novel Cre/loxP-based hybrid baculovirus vector that conferred prolonged expression of miR-214 sponge. Gene delivery for miR-214 sponge expression successfully downregulated miR-214 levels, activated the Wnt pathway, upregulated osteogenic factors β-catenin/Runx2, downregulated adipogenic factors PPAR-γ and C/EBP-α, shifted the differentiation propensity towards osteogenic lineage, enhanced the osteogenesis of co-cultured OVX-BMSCs, elevated BMP7/osteoprotegerin secretion and hindered exosomal miR-214/osteopontin release. Consequently, implanting the miR-214 sponge-expressing OVX-ASCs tremendously improved bone healing in OVX rats. Co-expression of miR-214 sponge and BMP2 further synergized the OVX-ASCs-mediated bone regeneration in OVX rats. This study implicates the potential of suppressing miR-214 by baculovirus-mediated gene delivery in osteoporotic ASCs for regenerative medicine.
Prognostic value of thyroid hormones in acute ischemic stroke – a meta analysis
Authors: Jiang Xingjun , Xing Hongyi , Wu Jing , Du Ruofei , Liu Houfu , Chen Jixiang , Wang Ji , Wang Chen , Wu Yan
Published: November 2017

Previous studies on the association between thyroid hormones and prognosis of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) reported conflicting results. We conducted a meta-analysis to assess the prognostic value of thyroid hormones in AIS. The PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane library databases were searched through May 12, 2017 to identify eligible studies on this subject. Out of 2,181 studies retrieved, 11 studies were finally included with a total number of 3,936 acute stroke patients for analysis. Odds ratio (OR) for predicting poor outcome or standardized mean difference (SMD) of thyroid hormone levels with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) obtained from the studies were pooled using Review Manager 5.3. From the results, in AIS, patients with a poor outcome had lower levels of triiodothyronine (T3) and higher thyroxine (T4). Pooled OR confirmed the same association. Our study provides statistical evidence supporting the utility of thyroid hormone levels in prognosis of acute stroke.
Recursive Exponentially Weighted N-way Partial Least Squares Regression with Recursive-Validation of Hyper-Parameters in Brain-Computer Interface Applications
Authors: Eliseyev Andrey , Auboiroux Vincent , Costecalde Thomas , Langar Lilia , Charvet Guillaume , Mestais Corinne , Aksenova Tetiana , Benabid Alim-Louis
Published: November 2017

A tensor-input/tensor-output Recursive Exponentially Weighted N-Way Partial Least Squares (REW-NPLS) regression algorithm is proposed for high dimension multi-way (tensor) data treatment and adaptive modeling of complex processes in real-time. The method unites fast and efficient calculation schemes of the Recursive Exponentially Weighted PLS with the robustness of tensor-based approaches. Moreover, contrary to other multi-way recursive algorithms, no loss of information occurs in the REW-NPLS. In addition, the Recursive-Validation method for recursive estimation of the hyper-parameters is proposed instead of conventional cross-validation procedure. The approach was then compared to state-of-the-art methods. The efficiency of the methods was tested in electrocorticography (ECoG) and magnetoencephalography (MEG) datasets. The algorithms are implemented in software suitable for real-time operation. Although the Brain-Computer Interface applications are used to demonstrate the methods, the proposed approaches could be efficiently used in a wide range of tasks beyond neuroscience uniting complex multi-modal data structures, adaptive modeling, and real-time computational requirements.
Degradation Mechanism of Ag Nanorods for Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Bachenheimer Lou , Scherzer Ryan , Elliott Paul , Stagon Stephen , Gasparov Lev , Huang Hanchen
Published: November 2017

This paper reports a degradation mechanism of silver (Ag) nanorods that are used as substrates for surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). The attachment of sulfur and hydrocarbons to the surfaces of Ag nanorods is observed when they are stored in ambient over four months. This attachment is observed to correlate with ~20% decrease in SERS signal. The attachment, and thereby the signal degradation, takes three weeks to complete, and remains stable after the initial decay over the rest of the four month test period. While this degradation mechanism is a limitation to the gross enhancement, the ensuing stability beyond three weeks is encouraging.
Functional connectivity of the cortical network supporting statistical learning in musicians and non-musicians: an MEG study
Authors: Paraskevopoulos Evangelos , Chalas Nikolas , Bamidis Panagiotis
Published: November 2017

Statistical learning is a cognitive process of great importance for the detection and representation of environmental regularities. Complex cognitive processes such as statistical learning usually emerge as a result of the activation of widespread cortical areas functioning in dynamic networks. The present study investigated the cortical large-scale network supporting statistical learning of tone sequences in humans. The reorganization of this network related to musical expertise was assessed via a cross-sectional comparison of a group of musicians to a group of non-musicians. The cortical responses to a statistical learning paradigm incorporating an oddball approach were measured via Magnetoencephalographic (MEG) recordings. Large-scale connectivity of the cortical activity was calculated via a statistical comparison of the estimated transfer entropy in the sources’ activity. Results revealed the functional architecture of the network supporting the processing of statistical learning, highlighting the prominent role of informational processing pathways that bilaterally connect superior temporal and intraparietal sources with the left IFG. Musical expertise is related to extensive reorganization of this network, as the group of musicians showed a network comprising of more widespread and distributed cortical areas as well as enhanced global efficiency and increased contribution of additional temporal and frontal sources in the information processing pathway.
Biased and unbiased perceptual decision-making on vocal emotions
Authors: Dricu Mihai , Ceravolo Leonardo , Grandjean Didier , Frühholz Sascha
Published: November 2017

Perceptual decision-making on emotions involves gathering sensory information about the affective state of another person and forming a decision on the likelihood of a particular state. These perceptual decisions can be of varying complexity as determined by different contexts. We used functional magnetic resonance imaging and a region of interest approach to investigate the brain activation and functional connectivity behind two forms of perceptual decision-making. More complex unbiased decisions on affective voices recruited an extended bilateral network consisting of the posterior inferior frontal cortex, the orbitofrontal cortex, the amygdala, and voice-sensitive areas in the auditory cortex. Less complex biased decisions on affective voices distinctly recruited the right mid inferior frontal cortex, pointing to a functional distinction in this region following decisional requirements. Furthermore, task-induced neural connectivity revealed stronger connections between these frontal, auditory, and limbic regions during unbiased relative to biased decision-making on affective voices. Together, the data shows that different types of perceptual decision-making on auditory emotions have distinct patterns of activations and functional coupling that follow the decisional strategies and cognitive mechanisms involved during these perceptual decisions.
Functional analysis of photosynthetic pigment binding complexes in the green alga Haematococcus pluvialis reveals distribution of astaxanthin in Photosystems
Authors: Mascia Francesco , Girolomoni Laura , Alcocer Marcelo J. P. , Bargigia Ilaria , Perozeni Federico , Cazzaniga Stefano , Cerullo Giulio , D’Andrea Cosimo , Ballottari Matteo
Published: November 2017

Astaxanthin is a ketocarotenoid produced by photosynthetic microalgae. It is a pigment of high industrial interest in acquaculture, cosmetics, and nutraceutics due to its strong antioxidant power. Haematococcus pluvialis, a fresh-water microalga, accumulates high levels of astaxanthin upon oxidative stress, reaching values up to 5% per dry weight. H. pluvialis accumulates astaxanthin in oil droplets in the cytoplasm, while the chloroplast volume is reduced. In this work, we investigate the biochemical and spectroscopic properties of the H. pluvialis pigment binding complexes responsible for light harvesting and energy conversion. Our findings demonstrate that the main features of chlorophyll and carotenoid binding complexes previously reported for higher plants or Chlamydomonas reinhardtii are preserved under control conditions. Transition to astaxanthin rich cysts however leads to destabilization of the Photosystems. Surprisingly, astaxanthin was found to be bound to both Photosystem I and II, partially substituting β-carotene, and thus demonstrating possible astaxanthin biosynthesis in the plastids or transport from the cytoplasm to the chloroplast. Astaxanthin binding to Photosystems does not however improve their photoprotection, but rather reduces the efficiency of excitation energy transfer to the reaction centers. We thus propose that astaxanthin binding partially destabilizes Photosystem I and II.
Ultra-short pulse propagation model for multi-core fibers based on local modes
Authors: Macho Ortiz Andrés , García-Meca Carlos , Fraile-Peláez Francisco Javier , Cortés-Juan Frederic , Llorente Sáez Roberto
Published: November 2017

Multi-core fibers (MCFs) have sparked a new paradigm in optical communications and open new possibilities and applications in experimental physics and other fields of science, such as biological and medical imaging. In many of these cases, ultra-short pulse propagation is revealed as a key factor that enables us to exploit the full potential of this technology. Unfortunately, the propagation of such pulses in real MCFs has not yet been modelled considering polarization effects or typical random medium perturbations, which usually give rise to both longitudinal and temporal birefringent effects. Using the concept of local modes, we develop here an accurate ultra-short pulse propagation model that rigorously accounts for these phenomena in single-mode MCFs. Based on this theory, we demonstrate analytically and numerically the intermodal dispersion between different LP01 polarized core modes induced by these random perturbations when propagating femtosecond pulses in the linear and nonlinear fiber regimes. The ever-decreasing core-to-core distance significantly enhances the intermodal dispersion induced by these birefringent effects, which can become the major physical impairment in the single-mode regime. To demonstrate the power of our model, we give explicit strategies to reduce the impact of this optical impairment by increasing the MCF perturbations.
Temperature-induced oriented growth of large area, few-layer 2D metal–organic framework nanosheets
Authors: Jian Meipeng , Liu Huiyuan , Williams Tim , Ma Jisheng , Wang Huanting , Zhang Xiwang
Published: November 2017

The isolation of few-layer two-dimensional (2D) metal–organic framework (MOF) sheets has been achieved at an elevated solvothermal reaction temperature.
Deliberate modification of the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) during lithiation of magnetite, Fe3O4: impact on electrochemistry
Authors: Bock David C. , Marschilok Amy C. , Takeuchi Kenneth J. , Takeuchi Esther S.
Published: November 2017

We report the first chemical and thermal evidence of solid electrolyte interphase modification on Fe3O4 electrodes via FEC electrolyte additive.
A facile synthesis of reduced holey graphene oxide for supercapacitors
Authors: Hu Xinjun , Bai Dongchen , Wu Yiqi , Chen Songbo , Ma Yu , Lu Yue , Chao Yuanzhi , Bai Yongxiao
Published: November 2017

Hydroxyl radicals (˙OH) generated from a UV/O3solution reaction is used to efficiently etch graphene oxide nanosheets.
Nanoseed-assisted synthesis of nano-sized SAPO-34 zeolites using morpholine as the sole template with superior MTO performance
Authors: Chen Guangrui , Sun Qiming , Yu Jihong
Published: November 2017

Nano-sized SAPO-34 catalysts have been prepared using morpholine as the sole template via a nanoseed-assisted method showing superior MTO performance.
Nucleation and growth of zinc crystals on a liquid surface
Authors: Lu Chenxi , Jin Ying , Tao Xiangming , Yang Bo , Ye Gaoxiang
Published: November 2017

A catalyst-free preparation method for zinc nanocrystals on a silicone oil surface is developed at room temperature.
Shape control of nickel crystals and catalytic hydrogenation performance of ruthenium-on-Ni crystals
Authors: Zhu Lihua , Zheng Tuo , Zheng Jinbao , Yu Changlin , Zhang Nuowei , Zhou Qiongyu , Zhang Wen , Chen Bing Hui
Published: November 2017

Nickel crystals with various shapes were obtained via hydrothermal synthesis. The effect of temperature and surfactant on nickel morphology was studied.
Hierarchical textures on aragonitic shells of the hyaline radial foraminiferHoeglundina elegans
Authors: Nakajima Kimiko , Suzuki Monami , Nagai Yukiko , Izumida Kenta , Oaki Yuya , Toyofuku Takashi , Bijma Jelle , Nehrke Gernot , Raitzsch Markus , Tani Kenichiro , Imai Hiroaki
Published: November 2017

Aragonitic shells of a hyaline radial foraminiferHoeglundina elegansconsist of a thin top layer and micrometer-scale columnar domains that are regarded as bundled pillars comprising iso-oriented nanograins.
On the combustion mechanisms of ZrH2 in double-base propellant
Authors: Yang Yanjing , Zhao Fengqi , Yuan Zhifeng , Wang Ying , An Ting , Chen Xueli , Xuan Chunlei , Zhang Jiankan
Published: November 2017

ZrH2 dehydrogenates in propellant combustion to generate H2 and Zr, whose combustion occurs on the burning surface to enhance heat feedback.
Molecular insights into the enhanced rate of CO2 absorption to produce bicarbonate in aqueous 2-amino-2-methyl-1-propanol
Authors: Stowe Haley M. , Hwang Gyeong S.
Published: November 2017

Facile reorganization of H2O molecules surrounding N of sterically hindered amine 2-amino-2-methyl-1-propanol, relative to tertiary amines, enhances CO2 absorption rate.
Recycling of zincite (ZnO) via uptake of hydrogen halides
Authors: Ahmed Oday H. , Altarawneh Mohammednoor , Al-Harahsheh Mohammad , Jiang Zhong-Tao , Dlugogorski Bogdan Z.
Published: November 2017

We investigate chemical interplay between HCl/HBr and zincite surfaces as a representative model for structures of zinc oxides in EAFD.
XANES study of vanadium and nitrogen dopants in photocatalytic TiO2 thin films
Authors: El Koura Zakaria , Rossi Giacomo , Calizzi Marco , Amidani Lucia , Pasquini Luca , Miotello Antonio , Boscherini Federico
Published: November 2017

X-ray absorption spectroscopy and ab initio simulations unravel the local structure of vanadium and nitrogen dopants in anatase thin films.
Understanding the interplay between the solvent and nuclear rearrangements in the negative solvatochromism of a push–pull flexible quinolinium cation
Authors: Cannelli Oliviero , Giovannini Tommaso , Baiardi Alberto , Carlotti Benedetta , Elisei Fausto , Cappelli Chiara
Published: November 2017

The main effects (solvation, vibronic progression) affecting the band position and shape of a push–pull flexible quinolinium cation OPA are highlighted.
How the hydrogen sorption properties of palladium are modified through interaction with iridium
Authors: Goyhenex Christine , Piccolo Laurent
Published: November 2017

The instability of hydrogen sorption properties in Ir (positive sorption energies) leads to the destabilization of hydrogen sorption in a Pd layer interacting with Ir.
Detection of a weak ring current in a nonaromatic porphyrin nanoring using magnetic circular dichroism
Authors: Kowalska Patrycja , Peeks Martin D. , Roliński Tomasz , Anderson Harry L. , Waluk Jacek
Published: November 2017

We compare the absorption and magnetic circular dichroism (MCD) spectra of a series of porphyrin oligomers – dimer, tetramer, and hexamer – bound in a linear or cyclic fashion.
Variational transition state theory: theoretical framework and recent developments
Authors: Bao Junwei Lucas , Truhlar Donald G.
Published: November 2017

This article reviews the fundamentals of variational transition state theory (VTST), its recent theoretical development, and some modern applications.
Sustainable succinylation of cellulose in a CO2-based switchable solvent and subsequent Passerini 3-CR and Ugi 4-CR modification
Authors: Söyler Z. , Onwukamike K. N. , Grelier S. , Grau E. , Cramail H. , Meier M. A. R.
Published: November 2017

An effective and sustainable succinylation of cellulose is described. The thus introduced carboxylic acids groups allowed a straightforward modification of cellulose via multicomponent reactions in a unprecedented manner.
Formation of calcium monofluoride in graphite furnace molecular absorption spectrometry, part I: interference mechanisms of competitive metals Ga, Al, Ba, and Sr
Authors: Ozbek Nil , Akman Suleyman
Published: November 2017

In this study, the formation mechanisms of CaF and the interference mechanisms of Al, Ba, Ga and Sr on the determination of F via CaF were studied.
On-line chemical vapor generation for determination of total sulfur dioxide in wine samples using an atomic fluorescence spectrometer
Authors: Yu Huimin , Zheng Chengbin , Jiang Xiaoming , Wu Xi , Hou Xiandeng
Published: November 2017

A simple and selective method that required mild operating conditions was developed for determination of SO2 using an atomic fluorescence spectrometer.
Band engineering in Mg3Sb2 by alloying with Mg3Bi2 for enhanced thermoelectric performance
Authors: Imasato Kazuki , Kang Stephen Dongmin , Ohno Saneyuki , Snyder G. Jeffrey
Published: November 2017

The optimum Mg3Sb2–Mg3Bi2 alloy composition for thermoelectrics is modeled by analyzing transport properties and understanding changes in the electronic structure.
A one-step synthesized acridine-based fluorescent chemosensor for selective detection of copper(ii) ions and living cell imaging
Authors: Dai Qiuzi , Liu Haiyang , Gao Chunmei , Li Wenlu , Zhu Caizhen , Lin Chengdong , Tan Ying , Yuan Zigao , Jiang Yuyang
Published: November 2017

A highly selective and sensitive fluorescence quenching chemosensor (ACC) for Cu2+ detection in HEPES buffer and living cell imaging was developed.
Microwave-assisted MgO NP catalyzed one-pot multicomponent synthesis of polysubstituted steroidal pyridines
Authors: Ansari Anam , Ali Abad , Asif Mohd , Shamsuzzaman Shamsuzzaman
Published: November 2017

MgO NPs were proved to be a highly efficient catalyst for mild and clean conversion of steroids to steroidal heterocycles.
Multicolorful ratiometric-fluorescent test paper for determination of fluoride ions in environmental water
Authors: Yu Xinling , Yang Linlin , Zhao Tingting , Zhang Ruilong , Yang Liang , Jiang Changlong , Zhao Jun , Liu Bianhua , Zhang Zhongping
Published: November 2017

A ratiometric-fluorescent test paper for the visual detection of the fluoride ion.
Controllable growth of Na2CO3fibers for mesoporous activated alumina ball modification towards the high-efficiency adsorption of HCl gas at low temperature
Authors: Liang Shuoyang , Fan Zhengyun , Zhang Weidong , Guo Min , Cheng Fangqin , Zhang Mei
Published: November 2017

Na2CO3fibers coated on activated alumina were successfully prepared; they showed higher efficiency HCl adsorption at the low temperature of 423 K.
Engineering SnS2 nanosheet assemblies for enhanced electrochemical lithium and sodium ion storage
Authors: Wang Yeyun , Zhou Junhua , Wu Jinghua , Chen Fengjiao , Li Peirong , Han Na , Huang Wenjing , Liu Yuping , Ye Hualin , Zhao Feipeng , Li Yanguang
Published: November 2017

Structure and interface engineering of SnS2 nanosheets assemblies leads to enhanced electrochemical lithium and sodium ion storage.
Direct synthesis of 3D hierarchically porous carbon/Sn composites via in situ generated NaCl crystals as templates for potassium-ion batteries anode
Authors: Huang Kangsheng , Xing Zheng , Wang Liancheng , Wu Xuan , Zhao Wei , Qi Xiujun , Wang Hong , Ju Zhicheng
Published: November 2017

3D hierarchically porous carbon/Sn composites is synthesized by in situ NaCl template method, which can effectively avoid the direct exposure of elemental Sn to the electrolyte, efficiently alleviate the volume expansion and exhibits good potassiation/depotassiation capacity.
Super-hydrophobic 3D printed polysulfone membranes with a switchable wettability by self-assembled candle soot for efficient gravity-driven oil/water separation
Authors: Yuan Shushan , Strobbe Dieter , Kruth Jean-Pierre , Van Puyvelde Peter , Van der Bruggen Bart
Published: November 2017

Micro/nanoscale hierarchical structures of super-hydrophobic 3D printed PSU membranes and the switchable separation of oil/water mixtures.
Thermal evolution of structures and conductivity of Pr-substituted BaZr0.7Ce0.2Y0.1O3−δ: potential cathode components for protonic ceramic fuel cells
Authors: Heras-Juaristi Gemma , Amador Ulises , Fuentes Rodolfo O. , Chinelatto Adilson L. , Romero de Paz Julio , Ritter Clemens , Fagg Duncan P. , Pérez-Coll Domingo , Mather Glenn C.
Published: November 2017

Pr doping in BZCY72 induces symmetry changes and enhances mixed-conductivity for electrochemical applications, with Pr concentration influencing the charge-compensation mechanism.
Few-layered MoSe2 nanosheets as an efficient peroxidase nanozyme for highly sensitive colorimetric detection of H2O2 and xanthine
Authors: Wu Xiaoju , Chen Tongming , Wang Jianxing , Yang Guowei
Published: November 2017

MoSe2 nanosheets possess intrinsic peroxidase-like activity and are applied to H2O2 and xanthine detection with high sensitivity and selectivity.
High efficiency phosphorescent white organic light-emitting diodes with low efficiency roll-off achieved by strategic exciton management based on simple ultrathin emitting layer structures
Authors: Zhang Tianmu , Shi Changsheng , Zhao Chenyang , Wu Zhongbin , Sun Ning , Chen Jiangshan , Xie Zhiyuan , Ma Dongge
Published: November 2017

A novel UEML-based WOLED structure with strategic exciton management to decrease the efficiency roll-off and improve color quality.
Therapeutic effect of a novel Wnt pathway inhibitor on cardiac regeneration after myocardial infarction
Authors: Yang Dezhong , Fu Wenbin , Li Liangpeng , Xia Xuewei , Liao Qiao , Yue Rongchuan , Chen Hongmei , Chen Xiongwen , An Songzhu , Zeng Chunyu , Wang Wei Eric
Published: November 2017

After myocardial infarction (MI), the heart is difficult to repair because of great loss of cardiomyoctyes and lack of cardiac regeneration. Novel drug candidates that aim at reducing pathological remodeling and stimulating cardiac regeneration are highly desirable. In the present study, we identified if and how a novel porcupine inhibitor CGX1321 influenced MI and cardiac regeneration. Permanent ligation of left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery was performed in mice to induce MI injury. Cardiac function was measured by echocardiography, infarct size was examined by TTC staining. Fibrosis was evaluated with Masson’s trichrome staining and vimentin staining. As a result, CGX1321 administration blocked the secretion of Wnt proteins, and inhibited both canonical and non-canonical Wnt signaling pathways. CGX1321 improved cardiac function, reduced myocardial infarct size, and fibrosis of post-MI hearts. CGX1321 significantly increased newly formed cardiomyocytes in infarct border zone of post-MI hearts, evidenced by the increased EdU+ cardiomyocytes. Meanwhile, CGX1321 increased Ki67+ and phosphohistone H3 (PH3+) cardiomyocytes in culture, indicating enhanced cardiomyocyte proliferation. The mRNA microarray showed that CGX1321 up-regulated cell cycle regulating genes such as Ccnb1 and Ccne1. CGX1321 did not alter YAP protein phosphorylation and nuclear translocation in cardiomyocytes. In conclusion, porcupine inhibitor CGX1321 reduces MI injury by limiting fibrosis and promoting regeneration. It promotes cardiomyocyte proliferation by stimulating cell cycle regulating genes with a Hippo/YAP-independent pathway.
The spatial extent of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons emission in the Herbig star HD 179218
Authors: Taha A. S. , Labadie L. , Pantin E. , Matter A. , Alvarez C. , Esquej P. , Grellmann R. , Rebolo R. , Telesco C. , Wolf S.
Published: November 2017

Aim. We investigate, in the mid-infrared, the spatial properties of the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) emission in the disk of HD 179218, an intermediate-mass Herbig star at ~300 pc.

Methods. We obtained mid-infrared images in the PAH-1, PAH-2 and Si-6 filters centered at 8.6, 11.3, and 12.5 μm, and N-band low-resolution spectra using CanariCam on the 10-m Gran Telescopio Canarias (GTC). We compared the point spread function (PSF) profiles measured in the PAH filters to the profile derived in the Si-6 filter, where the thermal continuum emission dominates. We performed radiative transfer modeling of the spectral energy distribution (SED) and produced synthetic images in the three filters to investigate different spatial scenarios.

Results. Our data show that the disk emission is spatially resolved in the PAH-1 and PAH-2 filters, while unresolved in the Si-6 filter. Thanks to very good observing conditions, an average full width at half maximum (FWHM) of 0.232′′, 0.280′′ and 0.293′′ is measured in the three filters, respectively. Gaussian disk fitting and quadratic subtraction of the science and calibrator PSFs suggests a lower-limit characteristic angular diameter of the emission of ~100 mas, or ~30 au. The photometric and spectroscopic results are compatible with previous findings. Our radiative transfer (RT) modeling of the continuum suggests that the resolved emission should result from PAH molecules on the disk atmosphere being UV-excited by the central star. Simple geometrical models of the PAH component compared to the underlying continuum point to a PAH emission uniformly extended out to the physical limits of the disk model. Furthermore, our RT best model of the continuum requires a negative exponent of the surface density power-law, in contrast with earlier modeling pointing to a positive exponent.

Conclusions. We have spatially resolved – for the first time to our knowledge – the PAHs emission in the disk of HD 179218 and set constraints on its spatial extent. Based on spatial and spectroscopic considerations as well as on qualitative comparison with IRS 48 and HD 97048, we favor a scenario in which PAHs extend out to large radii across the flared disk surface and are at the same time predominantly in an ionized charge state due to the strong UV radiation field of the 180 L⊙ central star.
Cu(I)-Catalyzed Synthesis of β,γ-Unsaturated Amides
Authors: Isaacs André , Bosse Aaron , Tsougranis Gregory , DeTroia Christopher , Tejidor Francisco
Published: November 2017

Readily available propargyl alcohols were found to be useful substrates for the copper(I)-catalyzed synthesis of β,γ-unsaturated amides. Nucleophilic attack by the alcohol on the in situ generated keten­imine followed by base-catalyzed elimination and subsequent ring opening yields the desired products under mild conditions.
Clinical Course and Treatment in MOG Antibody Seropositive Children: A Case Series
Authors: Kim Grace , Saxena Shrishti , Chitnis Tanuja
Published: November 2017

Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) antibodies have been associated with pediatric demyelinating diseases. The clinical course in a patient with MOG positivity is variable but not well-characterized. Here, we describe the clinical course and treatment in MOG antibody positive demyelinating diseases in our pediatric population. This case series is of 13 patients who tested MOG antibody positive: two relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (RR-MS), seven acute demyelinating encephalomyelitis (ADEM) or ADEM-optic neuritis (ADEM-ON), two clinically isolated syndrome (CIS), and two neuromyelitis optica (NMO). These patients appear to have more relapses, requiring more medications including IV steroids and IVIG. These patients are also more likely to start on disease modifying therapy (DMT) earlier, and β-interferon appears to not prevent relapses. MOG antibody positivity could provide as a marker for predicting frequent relapses in RR-MS and NMO patients, allowing for therapeutic intervention with earlier DMT.
Fallbeispiele zur Anwendung von Heilpilzen in der Tiermedizin
Authors: Thiede Svenja
Published: November 2017

Im vorliegenden Artikel wird die Mykotherapie als Möglichkeit eines individuellen, ganzheitlichen Therapieansatzes für Tiere vorgestellt. Die verwendeten Heilpilze und ihre Wirkungsweise werden kurz vorgestellt und Anwendungsbeispiele gegeben.
Beziehungsprüfung Parkinson! Geschlechtsspezifische psychische Belastungen bei Angehörigen von Morbus Parkinson-Patienten und ihr Zusammenhang zu wahrgenommenen Defiziten
Authors: Braukhaus Christoph , Jahnke Uwe , Zimmermann Tanja
Published: November 2017

Die neurodegenerative Erkrankung des Idiopathischen Parkinson-Syndroms geht mit einer hohen Belastung für die Betroffenen und einem deutlichen Verlust des partnerschaftlichen Funktionsniveaus einher. Angehörige von Patienten (N=110) wurden in der vorliegenden Studie mittels Fragebogen zur eigenen Depressivität (PHQ-9), zur eigenen Progredienzangst (PA-F-P-KF), zur Partnerschaftsqualität (PFB) sowie zu den wahrgenommenen Alltags- und nonverbalen Defiziten der Patienten befragt. 26% der Frauen und 11% der Männer zeigten Depressivitätswerte über dem Cut-off, 51% der Frauen und 41% der Männer dysfunktionale Progredienzangst und ca. 60% klassifizierten ihre Partnerschaft als unglücklich. Die Schwere der Symptomatik und ihre Belastung weisen eine deutliche Geschlechtsspezifität auf: Männliche Parkinson-Patienten werden von ihren Partnerinnen als von einer stärkeren Symptomatik betroffen eingeschätzt, Frauen weisen als Angehörige von Parkinson-Patienten mehr psychische Belastung auf. Hier zeigt sich ein starker korrelativer Zusammenhang zwischen Alltagsdefiziten und Depressivität (r=0,40, p<0,05), Progredienzangst (r=0,40, p<0,05) und Partnerschaftsqualität (r=−0,52, p<0,05) sowie nonverbalen Defiziten und Depressivität (r=0,37, p<0,05), Progredienzangst (r=0,27, p<0,05) und Partnerschaftsqualität (r=−0,49, p<0,05). Mittels Regressionsanalysen zur Vorhersage von Partnerschaftsqualität konnte ein Regressionsmodell mit 46% Aufklärung entwickelt werden. Kognitive Einschränkungen im Alltag, mangelnder Blickkontakt, körperliche Beweglichkeit und Schmerzen stellten sich als stärkste Prädiktorvariablen heraus. Der starke Zusammenhang zwischen Partnerschaftsqualität und Einschränkungen des Morbus Parkinson-Betroffenen wird auf die Frage hin diskutiert, ob nicht gezielte paartherapeutische Interventionen hilfreich für den möglichst langen Erhalt der Partnerschaftsqualität sein können.
Geburtshilfliche Anästhesie: Altbewährtes, Kontroversen und neue Perspektiven – Teil 2
Authors: Kranke Peter , Annecke Thorsten , Bremerich Dorothee , Chappell Daniel , Girard Thierry , Gogarten Wiebke , Hanß Robert , Kaufner Lutz , Neuhaus Sophie , Ninke Tobias , Standl Thomas , Weber Stefan , Jelting Yvonne , Volk Thomas
Published: November 2017

In der „Whatʼs New in Obstetric Anesthesia“ Lecture, die jedem an der anästhesiologischen Kreißsaalversorgung Interessierten in abgedruckter Form sehr ans Herz gelegt werden kann, werden seit 1975 durch die Society for Obstetric Anesthesia and Perinatology die im Rahmen des Annual Meeting als relevant für die klinische Versorgung erachteten Vorträge zusammengefasst. Nach dem Tode von Gerard W. Ostheimer, Professor of Anesthesiology im Brigham and Womenʼs Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts, wurde sie zur Gerard W. Ostheimer „Whatʼs New in Obstetric Anesthesia“ Lecture umbenannt, um dessen Beiträge zur Regionalanästhesie und geburtshilflichen Anästhesie zu würdigen. Jedes Jahr gewährt die von ausgewählten Fachvertretern gehaltene Veranstaltung und ihr Abdruck in namhaften Anästhesie-Journalen Einblick in eine kritische Würdigung rezenter Literatur und die möglichen Konsequenzen für – aber nicht nur – die anästhesiologische Kreißsaalpraxis.

Eine ähnliche Veranstaltung hat in Deutschland seit über 16 Jahren Tradition: Das Geburtshilfliche Anästhesiesymposium des Wissenschaftlichen Arbeitskreises Regionalanästhesie und Geburtshilfliche Anästhesie. Anders als in den von Einzelpersonen gehaltenen Vortragsveranstaltungen werden „Evergreens“ oder „Hot Topics“ der anästhesiologischen Kreißsaalversorgung in regelmäßigem Zyklus oder aus aktuellem Anlass aufgegriffen, präsentiert und vor allem diskutiert. In den Vortragsveranstaltungen offenbart sich oft wesentlich früher als in traditionellen Lehrbuchkapiteln der subtile Wandel in Hinblick auf die diskutierten Themen.

Der 2-teilige Beitrag fasst das Symposium 2016 zusammen, stellt jedoch keine offizielle Meinungsbekundung seitens des Arbeitskreises dar. Teil 1 geht auf mütterliche Todesursachen während Schwangerschaft, Geburt und Stillzeit sowie strukturelle Voraussetzungen im Kreißsaal, Adipositas in der Schwangerschaft und Sepsis bei der Schwangeren und im Wochenbett ein. Teil 2 behandelt etablierte Standards und neue Perspektiven im Rahmen der geburtshilflichen Analgesie und Anästhesie bezüglich Epiduralanalgesie, postpunktionellem Kopfschmerz, Anästhesie und Analgesie während und nach Sectio, hämodynamischem Monitoring und postpartaler Blutung.
Pseudophake additive Intraokularlinsen
Authors: Hengerer Fritz , Conrad-Hengerer Ina
Published: November 2017

Der Artikel gibt einen Überblick über die derzeit verfügbaren Implantate der Add-on-Intraokularlinsen und deren Indikationen. Auch abseits der rein refraktiven Korrekturlinsen werden Linsensysteme für Patienten mit Makulaerkrankungen vorgestellt. Darüber hinaus geht der Beitrag auf die besonderen Komplikationsmöglichkeiten der verschiedenen Techniken und Materialien ein.
Berechnungen von Intraokularlinsen zwecks Minimierung postoperativer vertikaler Anisometropie
Authors: Methling Dieter
Published: November 2017

Moderne Messgeräte berechnen präoperativ die Werte für die zu implantierenden Intraokularlinsen. Dies geschieht bisher für jedes Auge getrennt. Es gibt keine Information zu der postoperativen binokularen Wirkung, insbesondere der vertikalen Anisometropie (Differenz der vertikalen Hauptschnittswerte der korrigierenden rechten und der korrigierenden linken Brillenlinse). Es wird hier ein Programm vorgestellt, mit dem die Intraokularlinsen für beide Augen so berechnet werden, dass postoperativ nur eine sehr geringe vertikale Anisometropie ≤ 0,5 dpt resultiert.