bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Water-content related alterations in macro and micro scale tendon biomechanics
Authors: Lozano Pamela F. , Scholze Mario , Babian Carsten , Scheidt Holger , Vielmuth Franziska , Waschke Jens , Ondruschka Benjamin , Hammer Niels
Published: May 2019

Though it is known that the water content of biological soft tissues alters mechanical properties, little attempt has been made to adjust the tissue water content prior to biomechanical testing as part of standardization procedures. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of altered water content on the macro and micro scale mechanical tissues properties. Human iliotibial band samples were obtained during autopsies to osmotically adapt their water content. Macro mechanical tensile testing of the samples was conducted with digital image correlation, and micro mechanical tests using atomic force microscopy. Analyses were conducted for elastic moduli, tensile strength, and strain at maximum force, and correlations for water content, anthropometric data, and post-mortem interval. Different mechanical properties exist at different water concentrations. Correlations to anthropometric data are more likely to be found at water concentrations close to the native state. These data underline the need for adapting the water content of soft tissues for macro and micro biomechanical experiments to optimize their validity. The osmotic stress protocol provides a feasible and reliable standardization approach to adjust for water content-related differences induced by age at death, post-mortem interval and tissue processing time with known impact on the stress-strain properties.
Diagenetic and shear-induced transitions of frictional strength of carbon-bearing faults and their implications for earthquake rupture dynamics in subduction zones
Authors: Kaneki Shunya , Hirono Tetsuro
Published: May 2019

Subduction-related diagenetic reactions affect fault strength and are thus important for understanding earthquake rupture dynamics in subduction zones. Carbonaceous material (CM) is found worldwide in active plate-boundary and intracontinental faults, yet the effect of its transformation on frictional strength and rupture dynamics remains unknown. We conducted high-velocity friction experiments together with organochemical analyses on CM in the form of lignite, bituminous coal, anthracite and graphite. Results clearly show that an increase in CM maturity and crystallinity leads to a decrease in the peak friction coefficient (from 0.5 to 0.2). We also infer that friction applied to low-grade CM increases its maturity, but friction applied to high-grade CM reduces its maturity. These findings suggest that both diagenetic and shear-induced transformations of CM strongly affect the frictional strength of CM-bearing faults, potentially affecting the depth-dependences of frictional strength and rupture dynamics on plate-subduction faults.
Nanoscale reorganization of sarcoplasmic reticulum in pressure-overload cardiac hypertrophy visualized by dSTORM
Authors: Hadipour-Lakmehsari Sina , Driouchi Amine , Lee Shin-Haw , Kuzmanov Uros , Callaghan Neal I. , Heximer Scott P. , Simmons Craig A. , Yip Christopher M. , Gramolini Anthony O.
Published: May 2019

Pathological cardiac hypertrophy is a debilitating condition characterized by deleterious thickening of the myocardium, dysregulated Ca2+ signaling within cardiomyocytes, and contractile dysfunction. Importantly, the nanoscale organization, localization, and patterns of expression of critical Ca2+ handling regulators including dihydropyridine receptor (DHPR), ryanodine receptor 2 (RyR2), phospholamban (PLN), and sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase 2A (SERCA2A) remain poorly understood, especially during pathological hypertrophy disease progression. In the current study, we induced cardiac pathological hypertrophy via transverse aortic constriction (TAC) on 8-week-old CD1 mice, followed by isolation of cardiac ventricular myocytes. dSTORM super-resolution imaging was then used to visualize proteins at nanoscale resolution at two time points and we quantified changes in protein cluster properties using Voronoi tessellation and 2D Fast Fourier Transform analyses. We showed a decrease in the density of DHPR and RyR2 clusters with pressure-overload cardiac hypertrophy and an increase in the density of SERCA2A protein clusters. PLN protein clusters decreased in density in 2-week TAC but returned to sham levels by 4-week TAC. Furthermore, 2D-FFT analysis revealed changes in molecular organization during pathological hypertrophy, with DHPR and RyR2 becoming dispersed while both SERCA2A and PLN sequestered into dense clusters. Our work reveals molecular adaptations that occur in critical SR proteins at a single molecule during pressure overload-induced cardiomyopathy. Nanoscale alterations in protein localization and patterns of expression of crucial SR proteins within the cardiomyocyte provided insights into the pathogenesis of cardiac hypertrophy, and specific evidence that cardiomyocytes undergo significant structural remodeling during the progression of pathological hypertrophy.
Adiabatic two-step photoexcitation effects in intermediate-band solar cells with quantum dot-in-well structure
Authors: Asahi Shigeo , Kaizu Toshiyuki , Kita Takashi
Published: May 2019

We studied the dynamics of electrons generated by two-step photoexcitation in an intermediate-band solar cell (IBSC) comprising InAs/GaAs/Al0.3Ga0.7As dot-in-well (DWELL) structure using time-resolved photocurrent (TRPC) measurement. The examined IBSC exhibited considerably slower photocurrent decay than a conventional InAs/GaAs quantum dot IBSC, which is due to the extraordinarily long-lived electrons in the DWELL. In order to retrieve the electron lifetime from the decay profile, we developed a model reproducing the observed decay and performed parameter fitting. The fitting results indicate that the electron lifetime in the DWELL is approximately 30 μs. In the two-colour excitation TRPC measurement, we found that an additional infrared (IR) light accelerates the photocurrent decay while the photocurrent increases by approximately 3%, because the additional IR light causes two-step photoexcitation of electrons in the DWELLs towards the conduction band. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the open-circuit voltage increases with increasing of the contribution of the second IR excitation process.
Combinatorial evaluation of phase formation and magnetic properties of FeMnCoCrAl high entropy alloy thin film library
Authors: Marshal A. , Pradeep K. G. , Music D. , Wang L. , Petracic O. , Schneider J. M.
Published: May 2019

We report on the influence of the Al content (from 3.5 to 54 at.%) on phase formation and magnetic properties in FeMnCoCrAl high entropy alloy thin film libraries. Al additions to FeMnCoCr crystallizing in the alpha-Mn structure cause the formation of the body centered cubic (BCC) structure. This is consistent with density functional theory predictions as Al additions give rise to a larger stability for the BCC phase compared to the face centered cubic phase (FCC) which can be rationalized by the formation of a pseudogap at the Fermi level indicating the stabilization of the BCC phase over the FCC phase. Al additions to paramagnetic FeMnCoCr induce ferromagnetism. The largest saturation magnetization was measured for the film containing 8 at.% of Al. As the concentration of non-ferromagnetic Al is increased beyond 8 at.%, the number density of the ferromagnetic species is decreased causing a concomitant decrease in magnetization. This trend is consistent with ab initio predictions of the Al concentration induced changes in the magnetic moment. Based on the experimental and theoretical results presented here the effect of the Al concentration on the phase formation and the magnetic properties of FeMnCoCrAl thin film library can be rationalized.
Rensch’s rule in avian lice: contradictory allometric trends for sexual size dimorphism
Authors: Piross Imre Sándor , Harnos Andrea , Rózsa Lajos
Published: May 2019

Rensch’s rule (RR) postulates that in comparisons across closely related species, male body size relative to female size increases with the average size of the species. This holds true in several vertebrate and also in certain free-living invertebrate taxa. Here, we document the validity of RR in avian lice using three families (Philopteridae, Menoponidae, and Ricinidae). Using published data on the body length of 989 louse species, subspecies, or distinct intraspecific lineages, we applied phylogenetic reduced major axis regression to analyse the body size of females vs. males while accounting for phylogenetic non-independence. Our results indicate that philopterid and menoponid lice follow RR, while ricinids exhibit the opposite pattern. In the case of philopterids and menoponids, we argue that larger-bodied bird species tend to host lice that are both larger in size and more abundant. Thus, sexual selection acting on males makes them relatively larger, and this is stronger than fecundity selection acting on females. Ricinids exhibit converse RR, likely because fecundity selection is stronger in their case.
Possible role of complement factor H in podocytes in clearing glomerular subendothelial immune complex deposits
Authors: Zoshima Takeshi , Hara Satoshi , Yamagishi Masakazu , Pastan Ira , Matsusaka Taiji , Kawano Mitsuhiro , Nagata Michio
Published: May 2019

Podocytes are known to express various complement factors including complement factor H (CFH) and to promote the removal of both subendothelial and subepithelial immune complex (IC) deposits. Using podocyte-selective injury model NEP25 mice and an IgG3-producing hybridoma clone 2B11.3 established by MRL/lpr mice, the present study investigated the role of podocyte complement regulation in only subendothelial IC deposition. In immunotoxin (LMB2) induced fatal podocyte injury (NEP25/LMB2) at day 12, glomerular CFH and C3a receptor (C3aR) expression was decreased as compared with NEP25/vehicle mice. In contrast, in sublytic podocyte injury 5 days after LMB2, glomerular CFH and C3aR expression was increased as compared with NEP25/vehicle mice. Intra-abdominal injection of 2B11.3 hybridoma to NEP25 mice (NEP25/hybridoma) caused IC deposition limited to the subendothelial area associated with unaltered CFH expression. NEP25/hybridoma mice with sublytic podocyte injury (NEP25/hybridoma/LMB2) resulted in increased glomerular CFH expression (1.7-fold) accompanied by decreased subendothelial IC deposition, as compared with NEP25/hybridoma. Immunostaining revealed that CFH was dominantly expressed in podocytes of NEP25/hybridoma/LMB2. In addition, puromycin-induced sublytic podocyte injury promoted CFH expression in immortalized mouse podocytes in vitro. These results suggest that in response to sublytic levels of injury, podocyte induced CFH expression locally and clearance of subendothelial IC deposits.
Influence of the migration of radioactive contaminants in soil, resident occupancy, and variability in contamination on isodose lines for typical Northern European houses
Authors: Hinrichsen Yvonne , Finck Robert , Martinsson Johan , Rääf Christopher , Andersson Kasper Grann
Published: May 2019

In the remedial phase following an accidental radioactive release, it is important that soil decontamination measures are carried out on the areas that contribute most to the radiation dose. In this study, the newly developed concept of isodose lines was applied to the area around typical Swedish dwellings to identify these areas. The influence of the most common building materials in Sweden, wood and brick, and the importance of the positions of doors and windows on the isodose lines were demonstrated for specific positions inside the houses, as well as for the entire house, assuming the residents exhibit typical resident occupancy. Decontamination of the areas within certain isodose lines was shown to result in a greater dose reduction than decontaminating the same area of soil within a certain distance of the house. Furthermore, the impact of vertical migration of the radioactive contaminants in the soil on the isodose lines was studied, showing that the area enclosed by isodose lines decreases over time as the contaminants migrate deeper into the soil. The resulting isodose lines and their change over time are dominated by the downward movement of the contamination in the upper layer of soil. The impact of the variability in contamination on the final isodose lines and their dependence on building materials are demonstrated.
Multivariate analysis reveals significant diuron-related changes in the soil composition of different Brazilian regions
Authors: Chagas Paulo Sérgio Fernandes das , Souza Matheus de Freitas , Dombroski Jeferson Luiz Dallabona , Junior Rubem Silvério de Oliveira , Nunes Glauber Henrique de Sousa , Pereira Gustavo Antônio Mendes , Silva Tatiane Severo , Passos Ana Beatriz Rocha de Jesus , Santos José Barbosa dos , Silva Daniel Valadão
Published: May 2019

Sorption and desorption determine the amount of an herbicide in soil solution. Therefore, knowledge of the sorption and desorption coefficients in different soils is an essential factor to estimate the potential for environmental contamination by herbicides. We evaluated the feasibility of multivariate and linear discriminant analyses to predict the sorption and desorption capacity of a soil for diuron, one of the most used herbicides on sugarcane plantations. The adsorptive capacity in twenty-seven Brazilian soil samples was estimated using the sorption constant (Kfs) and desorption constant (Kfd) obtained by the Freundlich isotherms. The regression model was created from the sorbed and nonsorbed concentrations of diuron in soils. Ultra-performance liquid chromatography was applied to quantify the diuron concentrations. The multivariate analysis separated the soils into four groups considering the similarity of the following attributes: pH, organic matter, clay, and base saturation. The groups showed a similar pattern of sorption and desorption for diuron: Lom-Lclay: low sorption (5.9 ± 1.2) and high desorption (10.9 ± 0.6); Lclay: low sorption (7.5 ± 1.1) and high desorption (11.4 ± 1.3); Hom-Hclay: high sorption (11.2 ± 1.2) and low desorption (13.8 ± 1.2); HpH-Hclay: high sorption (10.1 ± 1.1) and medium desorption (11.5 ± 1.4). Linear discriminant analysis of these soil attributes was used to classify other soils described in the literature with adsorption capacity. This analysis was able to identify soils with high and low sorption using the pH, organic matter, clay, and base saturation, demonstrating the enormous potential of the technique to group soils with different contamination risks for subterranean waters. Sugarcane crops in northeastern Brazil showed a higher pollution risk through the leaching of diuron. Multivariate analysis revealed significant diuron-related changes in the soil composition of different Brazilian regions; therefore, this statistical analysis can be used to improve understanding of herbicide behavior in soils.
Tissue Interlocking Dissolving Microneedles for Accurate and Efficient Transdermal Delivery of Biomolecules
Authors: Fakhraei Lahiji Shayan , Kim Youseong , Kang Geonwoo , Kim Suyong , Lee Seunghee , Jung Hyungil
Published: May 2019

The interest in safe and efficient transdermal drug delivery systems has been increasing in recent decades. In light of that, polymeric dissolving microneedles (DMNs) were developed as an ideal platform capable of delivering micro- and macro-biomolecules across the skin in a minimally invasive manner. A vast majority of studies, however, suggest that the shape of DMNs, as well as the elastic properties of skin, affects the delivery efficiency of materials encapsulated within DMNs. Likewise, in dynamic tissues, DMNs would easily distend from the skin, leading to inefficient delivery of encapsulated agents. Thus, herein, to improve delivery efficiency of DMN encapsulated agents, a novel hyaluronic acid backbone-based tissue interlocking DMN (TI-DMN) is developed. TI-DMN is simple to fabricate and significantly improves the transdermal delivery efficiency of encapsulated materials compared with traditional DMNs. The enhanced tissue interlocking feature of TI-DMN is achieved through its sharp tip, wide body, and narrow neck geometry. This paper demonstrates that TI-DMN would serve as an attractive transdermal delivery platform to enhance penetration and delivery efficiency of a wide range of biomolecules into the body.
Author Correction: Macro-scale ore-controlling faults revealed by micro-geochemical anomalies
Authors: Carranza Emmanuel John M. , de Souza Filho Carlos Roberto , Haddad-Martim Paulo Miguel , Katsuta Nagayoshi , Shimizu Ichiko
Published: May 2019

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has been fixed in the paper.
Ultra-small microorganisms in the polyextreme conditions of the Dallol volcano, Northern Afar, Ethiopia
Authors: Gómez Felipe , Cavalazzi Barbara , Rodríguez Nuria , Amils Ricardo , Ori Gian Gabriele , Olsson-Francis Karen , Escudero Cristina , Martínez Jose M. , Miruts Hagos
Published: May 2019

The Dallol geothermal area in the northern part of the Danakil Depression (up to 124–155 meter below sea level) is deemed one of the most extreme environments on Earth. The area is notable for being part of the Afar Depression, an incipient seafloor-spreading center located at the triple junction, between Nubian, Somali and Arabian plates, and for hosting environments at the very edge of natural physical-chemical extremities. The northern part of the Danakil Depression is dominated by the Assale salt plain (an accumulation of marine evaporite deposits) and hosts the Dallol volcano. Here, the interaction between the evaporitic deposit and the volcanisms have created the unique Dallol hot springs, which are highly acidic (pH ~ 0) and saline (saturation) with maximum temperatures ranging between 90 and 109 °C. Here we report for the first time evidence of life existing with these hot springs using a combination of morphological and molecular analyses. Ultra-small structures are shown to be entombed within mineral deposits, which are identified as members of the Order Nanohaloarchaea. The results from this study suggest the microorganisms can survive, and potential live, within this extreme environment, which has implications for understanding the limits of habitability on Earth and on (early) Mars.
Signaling pathways involved in p38-ERK and inflammatory factors mediated the anti-fibrosis effect of AD-2 on thioacetamide-induced liver injury in mice
Authors: Su Guang-Yue , Li Zhi-Yao , Wang Rui , Lu Ye-Zhi , Nan Ji-Xing , Wu Yan-Ling , Zhao Yu-Qing
Published: May 2019

Ginseng is a type of medicinal and edible homologous plant that is very common in medicine, food and even cosmetics.
The sonochemical functionalization of MoS2 by zinc phthalocyanine and its visible light-induced photocatalytic activity
Authors: Ibrahim Sk , Pal Tanusri , Ghosh Surajit
Published: May 2019

Here, the synthesis of a molybdenum disulfide–zinc phthalocyanine (MoS2–ZnTTBPc) composite is reported where the scalable synthesis of MoS2 was done by a simple solvothermal route followed by the sonochemical attachment of ZnTTBPc.
Hydrogenation of hydrophobic substrates catalyzed by gold nanoparticles embedded in Tetronic/cyclodextrin-based hydrogels
Authors: Chevry M. , Menuel S. , Léger B. , Noël S. , Monflier E. , Hapiot F.
Published: May 2019

Hydrogenation of alkenes, alkynes and aldehydes was investigated under biphasic conditions using Au nanoparticles (AuNP) embedded into combinations of α-cyclodextrin (α-CD) and a poloxamine (Tetronic®90R4).
CuCo2O4 mixed metal oxide/TiO2 nanotube arrays hetero-nanostructure with enhanced photoelectrocatalytic activity toward galantamine
Authors: Bakhnooh Fatemeh , Arvand Majid , Hemmati Shiva
Published: May 2019

In this research, we aim to design a simple and effective photoelectrochemical sensor using the heterostructure of a mixed metal oxide coated on the surface of vertically aligned titanium dioxide nanotube arrays.
Microperoxidase-11 modified mesoporous SnO2 film electrodes for the detection of antimalarial drug artemisinin
Authors: Ioannidis Lambros Aris , Nikolaou Pavlos , Panagiotopoulos Apostolos , Vassi Andriana , Topoglidis Emmanuel
Published: May 2019

A simple and efficient preparation method for Microperoxidase-11 modified mesoporous SnO2 films on ITO glass substrates for the development of a sensitive electrochemical drug sensor for the determination of artemisinin.
Diverging surface reactions at TiO2- or ZnO-based photoanodes in dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Ruess Raffael , Scarabino Sabina , Ringleb Andreas , Nonomura Kazuteru , Vlachopoulos Nick , Hagfeldt Anders , Wittstock Gunther , Schlettwein Derck
Published: May 2019

Surface reactions of electrolyte additives and consequences for cell properties are studied and assigned to characteristics specific for both semiconductors.
Tuning the magnetic properties of graphene derivatives by functional group selection
Authors: Langer Rostislav , Błoński Piotr , Otyepka Michal
Published: May 2019

The recent discovery of hydroxofluorographene G(OH)F, a graphene derivative showing room temperature antiferromagnetic ordering, suggests that there may be other sp-materials based on sp3-functionalized graphene that exhibit magnetic ordering and whose properties can be controlled by selecting suitable functional groups.
One-electron bonds are not “half-bonds”
Authors: de Sousa David Wilian Oliveira , Nascimento Marco Antonio Chaer
Published: May 2019

The formation of one-electron bonds follows the same mechanism as the regular covalent bonds. It is the same phenomenon, quantum interference, that rules the stabilization of systems containing such bonds and there is no distinction between one- and two-electron bonds from the conceptual point of view. The difference in the BDEs of the one- and two electron bonds has no relation with bond order. One-electron bonds are not “half-bonds”.
Can reactions follow non-traditional second-order saddle pathways avoiding transition states?
Authors: Pradhan Renuka , Lourderaj Upakarasamy
Published: May 2019

Reaction via a high energy second-order saddle pathway avoiding the transition state region.
H/D exchange in N-heterocycles catalysed by an NHC-supported ruthenium complex
Authors: Mai V. Hung , Gadzhiev Oleg B. , Ignatov Stanislav K. , Nikonov Georgii I.
Published: May 2019

NHC-supported trihydrides Cp(NHC)RuH3show excellent catalytic activity in the H/D exchange of pyridine and some other N-heterocycles under mild conditions and low catalyst loading.
Luminescent Ru(ii)-thiol modified silver nanoparticles for lysosome targeted theranostics
Authors: Wumaier Maierhaba , Yao Tian-Ming , Hu Xiao-Chun , Hu Zhi-An , Shi Shuo
Published: May 2019

AgNPs modified by Ru(ii) complexes possess bright red fluorescence and may act as potential lysosome-targeted theranostic agents.
Stepwise oxidations of a nickel(ii)–iron(iii) heterobimetallic porphyrin dimer: structure, spectroscopic and theoretical investigation
Authors: Kumar Amit , Banerjee Sayantani , Sarkar Sabyasachi , Rath Sankar Prasad
Published: May 2019

A novel nickel(ii)–iron(iii) heterobimetallic ethene-bridged porphyrin dimer has been synthesized which upon two-electron oxidation produces a nickel(ii)–iron(iii) dication diradical complex where radicals undergo extensive conjugation through the bridge for all possible interactions.
Mechanism analysis of improved glucose homeostasis and cholesterol metabolism in high-fat-induced obese mice treated with La-SJLH001 via transcriptomics and culturomics
Authors: Sun Qian , Zhang Yong , Li Ziwen , Yan Hai , Li Jinping , Wan Xiangyuan
Published: May 2019

This study aimed to evaluate the functional and probiotic properties of Lactobacillus acidophilus SJLH001 (La-SJLH001) isolated from fermented food via mechanism analysis based on transcriptomics and culturomics.
Visible-light-induced α-oxyamination of 1,3-dicarbonyls with TEMPO via a photo(electro)catalytic process applying a DSSC anode or in a DSSC system
Authors: Gong Ming , Kim Jung Keun , Zhao Xiuli , Li Yabo , Zhang Jianye , Huang Mengmeng , Wu Yangjie
Published: May 2019

The photo(electro)catalyzed α-oxyamination of 1,3-dicarbonyls with TEMPO using a DSSC anode or in a DSSC system.
A facile iron-catalyzed dual C–C bond cleavage: an approach towards triarylmethanes
Authors: Paul Dipankar , Khatua Snehadrinarayan , Chatterjee Paresh Nath
Published: May 2019

An efficient iron-catalyzed dual C–C bond cleaving reaction has been developed for the synthesis of triarylmethanes.
Tuning the visible-light photocatalytic degradation activity of thin nanosheets constructed porous g-C3N4 microspheres by decorating ionic liquid modified carbon dots: roles of heterojunctions and surface charges
Authors: Zhao Bin , Wang Baogang , Lu Hongsheng , Dai Shanshan , Huang Zhiyu
Published: May 2019

The visible-light photocatalytic degradation activity of thin nanosheets constructed g-C3N4 microspheres was tuned by decorating ionic liquid modified carbon dots.
A series of trinuclear zinc(ii) complexes with reduced Schiff base ligands: turn-off fluorescent chemosensors with high selectivity for nitroaromatics
Authors: Karmakar Mainak , Roy Sourav , Chattopadhyay Shouvik
Published: May 2019

A series of trinuclear zinc(ii) complexes have been synthesized and characterized by X-ray crystallography. The ability of the complexes to act as sensors for the detection of nitroaromatics in DMF has been assessed.
A series of metal–organic loops templated by [SiMo12O40]4− and [β-Mo8O26]4− anions using double chelating ligands: amperometric sensing and selective photocatalytic properties
Authors: Tian Ai-xiang , Fu Yu-bo , Cui Hong-tao , Ying Jun , Yang Meng-le , Yang Yan , Wang Xiu-li
Published: May 2019

By changing the POM anions and TM ions, a series of compounds with multi-nuclear loops was formed.
Direct ethanol condensation to diethyl acetal in the vapour phase at atmospheric pressure over CuNP/SBA-15 catalysts
Authors: Paleti Gidyonu , Peddinti Nagaiah , Gajula Naveen , Kadharabenchi Vasikerappa , Rao Kamaraju Seetha Rama , Burri David Raju
Published: May 2019

Of the biomass valorization technologies, bioethanol production and its selective conversion to diethyl acetal is of utmost importance to meet the increasing demand for bio-fuel additives.
Mechanofluorochromic behaviors of triphenylamine functionalized salicylaldimine difluoroboron complexes
Authors: Sun Jingbo , Yang Hao , Simalou Oudjaniyobi , Lv Kuo , Zhai Lu , Zhao Jinyu , Lu Ran
Published: May 2019

The solid-state emission of D–A type difluoroboron complexes is tuned by external forces.
Targeted magnetic separation of biomolecules and cells using earthicle-based ferrofluids
Authors: Uskoković Vuk , Tang Sean , Wu Victoria M.
Published: May 2019

Composite nanoparticles administered as ferrofluids are effective at selective magnetic separation of biomolecules, bacteria and cancer vs. healthy cells.
Disorder limits the coherent phonon transport in two-dimensional phononic crystal structures
Authors: Hu Shiqian , Zhang Zhongwei , Jiang Pengfei , Ren Weijun , Yu Cuiqian , Shiomi Junichiro , Chen Jie
Published: May 2019

κCNPnC showed a non-monotonic dependence on porosity, and the localization of coherent phonons induced a substantial suppression of κD-C3N.
A clear solution: semiconductor nanocrystals as photoinitiators in solvent free polymerization
Authors: Verbitsky Lior , Waiskopf Nir , Magdassi Shlomo , Banin Uri
Published: May 2019

Semiconductor nanocrystals are shown as highly efficient quantum photoinitiators for solvent-and-additive-free polymerization with micromolar loading, surpassing traditional organic initiators. The new quantum photoinitiators demonstrate a two-photon polymerization capacity, allowing multi-functional microprinting.
Chirality enriched carbon nanotubes with tunable wrapping via corona phase exchange purification (CPEP)
Authors: Nißler Robert , Mann Florian A. , Preiß Helen , Selvaggio Gabriele , Herrmann Niklas , Kruss Sebastian
Published: May 2019

A novel process (CPEP) for chirality enriched single-walled carbon nanotubes with tunable functionalization.
Gate-tunable large spin polarization in a few-layer black phosphorus-based spintronic device
Authors: Zhang Liwen , Chen Jun , Zheng Xiaohong , Wang Bin , Zhang Lei , Xiao Liantuan , Jia Suotang
Published: May 2019

The spin polarization of a few-layer BP-based spintronic device can be efficiently controlled by the vertical gate induced Stark effect.
Collective dynamics of microtubule-based 3D active fluids from single microtubules
Authors: Bate Teagan E. , Jarvis Edward J. , Varney Megan E. , Wu Kun-Ta
Published: May 2019

Connecting dynamics of 3D millimeter-scale active fluids with 2D micron-scale microtubule gliding.
The role of stickiness in the rheology of semiflexible polymers
Authors: Golde Tom , Glaser Martin , Tutmarc Cary , Elbalasy Iman , Huster Constantin , Busteros Gaizka , Smith David M. , Herrmann Harald , Käs Josef A. , Schnauß Jörg
Published: May 2019

The rheological properties of semiflexible polymer networks are strongly affected by a polymer specific stickiness.
Direct formation of hydrophilic honeycomb film by self-assembly in breath figure templating of hydrophobic polylacticacid/ionic surfactant complexes
Authors: Yin Hongyao , Zhan Fuxing , Yu Yue , Li Zongcheng , Feng Yujun , Billon Laurent
Published: May 2019

Hydrophilic honeycomb films are directly fabricated by the self-assembly of complexes of polylacticacid and dodecyl trimethyl ammonium chloride in ‘breath figure’ templating. The presence of a cationic surfactant not only improves film regularity, but also imparts them with excellent wettability.
Nanomaterial-based SERS sensing technology for biomedical application
Authors: Huang Zhicheng , Zhang Amin , Zhang Qian , Cui Daxiang
Published: May 2019

Over the past few years, nanomaterial-based surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) detection has emerged as a new exciting field in which theoretical and experimental studies of the structure and function of nanomaterials have become a focus.
Derivation of occupational exposure limits for multi-walled carbon nanotubes and graphene using subchronic inhalation toxicity data and a multi-path particle dosimetry model
Authors: Lee Young-Sub , Sung Jae-Hyuck , Song Kyung-Seuk , Kim Jin-Kwon , Choi Byung-Sun , Yu Il-Je , Park Jung-Duck
Published: May 2019

In this study, we aimed to provide the recommended occupational exposure limits (OELs) for MWCNTs and graphene nanomaterials based on data from a subchronic inhalation toxicity study using a lung dosimetry model.
Signatures of the non-Maxwellian κ-distributions in optically thin line spectra
Authors: Dudík Jaroslav , Dzifčáková Elena , Del Zanna Giulio , Mason Helen E. , Golub Leon L. , Winebarger Amy R. , Savage Sabrina L.
Published: May 2019

Aims. We investigated the possibility of diagnosing the degree of departure from the Maxwellian distribution using the Fe XVII–Fe XVIII spectra originating in plasmas in collisional ionization equilibrium, such as in the cores of solar active regions or microflares.

Methods. The original collision strengths for excitation are integrated over the non-Maxwellian electron κ-distributions characterized by a high-energy tail. Synthetic X-ray emission line spectra were calculated for a range of temperatures and κ. We focus on the 6–24 Å spectral range to be observed by the upcoming Marshall Grazing-Incidence X-ray Spectrometer MaGIXS.

Results. We find that many line intensity ratios are sensitive to both T and κ. Best diagnostic options are provided if a ratio involving both Fe XVII and Fe XVIII is combined with another ratio involving lines formed within a single ion. The sensitivity of such diagnostics to κ is typically a few tens of per cent. Much larger sensitivity, of about a factor of two to three, can be obtained if the Fe XVIII 93.93 Å line observed by SDO/AIA is used in conjuction with the X-ray lines.

Conclusions. We conclude that the MaGIXS instrument is well-suited for detection of departures from the Maxwellian distribution, especially in active region cores.
Opening the Treasure Chest in Carina
Authors: Mookerjea B. , Sandell G. , Güsten R. , Riquelme D. , Wiesemeyer H. , Chambers E.
Published: May 2019

Pillars and globules are the best examples of the impact of the radiation and wind from massive stars on the surrounding interstellar medium. We mapped the G287.84-0.82 cometary globule (with the Treasure Chest cluster embedded in it) in the South Pillars region of Carina (i) in [C II], 63 μm [O I], and CO(11–10) using the heterodyne receiver array upGREAT on SOFIA and (ii) in J = 2–1 transitions of CO, 13CO, C18O, and J = 3–2 transitions of H2CO using the APEX telescope in Chile. We used these data to probe the morphology, kinematics, and physical conditions of the molecular gas and the photon-dominated regions (PDRs) in G287.84-0.82. The velocity-resolved observations of [C II] and [O I] suggest that the overall structure of the pillar (with red-shifted photoevaporating tails) is consistent with the effect of FUV radiation and winds from η Car and O stars in Trumpler 16. The gas in the head of the pillar is strongly influenced by the embedded cluster, whose brightest member is an O9.5 V star, CPD −59°2661. The emission of the [C II] and [O I] lines peak at a position close to the embedded star, while all the other tracers peak at another position lying to the northeast consistent with gas being compressed by the expanding PDR created by the embedded cluster. The molecular gas inside the globule was probed with the J = 2–1 transitions of CO and isotopologs as well as H2CO, and analyzed using a non-local thermodynamic equilibrium model (escape-probability approach), while we used PDR models to derive the physical conditions of the PDR. We identify at least two PDR gas components; the diffuse part (~ 104 cm−3) is traced by [C II], while the dense (n ~ 2–8 × 105 cm−3) part is traced by [C II], [O I], and CO(11–10). Using the F = 2–1 transition of [13C II] detected at 50 positions in the region, we derived optical depths (0.9–5), excitation temperatures (80–255 K) of [C II], and N(C+) of 0.3–1 × 1019 cm−2. The total mass of the globule is ~1000 M⊙, about half of which is traced by [C II]. The dense PDR gas has a thermal pressure of 107–108 K cm−3, which is similar to the values observed in other regions.
Astrometric calibration for all-sky cameras revisited
Authors: Barghini D. , Gardiol D. , Carbognani A. , Mancuso S.
Published: May 2019

Context. Several fireball networks deploy all-sky cameras for the observation of bright meteors and bolides. Because the field is heavily distorted, a dedicated astrometric reduction is needed. A precise computation of the astrometric solution is essential to determine reliable orbital elements of the parent body and to recover possible fragments on ground.

Aims. The purpose of this article is to assess the astrometric performances of this type of instruments, which is characterized by a wide field of view and small apertures. The currently available parametric models show a high level of complexity and generally suffer from parameter crosstalk and local minimum confinement if the initial estimates are not precisely provided. We address these issues here and propose a solution by adopting a new explicit parametrisation.

Methods. The mismatch between the optical axis and the local zenith direction requires a geometric description that includes two centres of symmetry that lie very close to each other on the focal plane, causing an unreliable estimate of the related parameters. The introduction of new physical coordinates overcomes these issues, allowing a direct and independent estimation. We assessed the performances of different centroiding algorithms in the experimental conditions of an undersampled point spread function of reference stars and saturated bolides on video records. We implemented the algorithm for an automatic identification of bright sources on calibration frames and subsequent correlation with catalogue positions using astrometric projections of increasing complexity.

Results. The algorithm and the new parametrisation of the astrometric solution are tested against real data from the PRISMA Italian fireball network and ensure good convergence properties for all cameras we tested so far. By processing astrometric data with a few months’ statistics, we can achieve a random projection indeterminacy of the order of 10 arcsec, which is negligible with respect to single measurement errors on the bolide position.
Fisher-KPP dynamics in diffusive Rosenzweig–MacArthur and Holling–Tanner models
Authors: Cai Hong , Ghazaryan Anna , Manukian Vahagn
Published: May 2019

We prove the existence of traveling fronts in diffusive Rosenzweig–MacArthur and Holling–Tanner population models and investigate their relation with fronts in a scalar Fisher-KPP equation. More precisely, we prove the existence of fronts in a Rosenzweig–MacArthur predator-prey model in two situations: when the prey diffuses at the rate much smaller than that of the predator and when both the predator and the prey diffuse very slowly. Both situations are captured as singular perturbations of the associated limiting systems. In the first situation we demonstrate clear relations of the fronts with the fronts in a scalar Fisher-KPP equation. Indeed, we show that the underlying dynamical system in a singular limit is reduced to a scalar Fisher-KPP equation and the fronts supported by the full system are small perturbations of the Fisher-KPP fronts. We obtain a similar result for a diffusive Holling–Tanner population model. In the second situation for the Rosenzweig–MacArthur model we prove the existence of the fronts but without observing a direct relation with Fisher-KPP equation. The analysis suggests that, in a variety of reaction–diffusion systems that rise in population modeling, parameter regimes may be found when the dynamics of the system is inherited from the scalar Fisher-KPP equation.
An overview of the dialogue meetings initiated by ICRP in Japan after the Fukushima accident
Authors: Lochard J. , Schneider T. , Ando R. , Niwa O. , Clement C. , Lecomte J.F. , Tada J.I.
Published: May 2019

In its recommendations for the protection of people living in long-term contaminated territories after a nuclear accident, the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) emphasizes the effectiveness of directly involving the affected population and local professionals in the management of the situation, and the responsibility of authorities at both national and local levels to create the conditions and provide the means favouring the involvement and empowerment of the population. In this perspective, ICRP initiated in the fall 2011 a dialogue between representatives of the Fukushima Prefecture, local professionals, local communities and representatives of Belarusian, Norwegian and French organisations to find ways to respond to the challenges of the long-term rehabilitation of the living conditions in the territories affected by the Fukushima nuclear power plant. After a first series of twelve “ICRP Dialogue” meetings between 2011 and 2015 closed by an international workshop, a group of local stakeholders took over and organized a new series of eight “Fukushima Dialogue” meetings between 2016 and 2018. The article gives an overview of the dialogue meetings initiated by ICRP in Japan after the Fukushima nuclear accident.
Leserbrief zu Heft 1–2019 der Zeitschrift Phlebologie „Operative Phlebologie: Varizenrezidive“
Authors: Alm Jens
Published: May 2019

Das primäre Ziel, sowohl der offenen Operationstechniken, als auch der endovenösen Therapien zur Behandlung der Krampfadererkrankung sollte die sichere Ausschaltung des Rezirkulationskreislaufes beinhalten und für die Patienten eine Situation schaffen, möglichst lange rezidivfrei zu bleiben. Die Empfehlung, die Herr Mumme in seinem Artikel „Alarmierend hohe Raten sapheno-femoraler Rezidive nach endovenöser Lasertherapie“, Patienten, denen die Rezidivfreiheit wichtig ist, die Crossektomie und Strippingoperation als Therapie der ersten Wahl anzubieten und Hitzeablationen direkt an der tiefen Vene nur innerhalb von ethisch abgesicherten Studien durchzuführen, möchte ich widersprechen.
Factor V Leiden Is not a Risk Factor for Arterial Vascular Disease in the Elderly: Results from the Cardiovascular Health Study
Authors: Cushman Mary , Rosendaal Frits R. , Psaty Bruce M. , Cook E. Francis , Valliere J. , Kuller Lewis H. , Tracy Russell P.
Published: May 2019

Coagulation factor V Leiden is a risk marker for venous thrombosis. For arterial thrombosis no large study to date has included population-based elderly patients. The Cardiovascular Health Study is a longitudinal study of 5,201 men and women over age 65. With 3.4-year follow-up, we studied 373 incident cases of myocardial infarction (MI), angina, stroke, or transient ischemic attack (TIA), and 482 controls. The odds ratios for each event with heterozygous factor V Leiden were: MI, 0.46 (95% CI 0.17 to 1.25); angina, 1.0 (95% CI 0.45 to 2.23); stroke, 0.77 (95% CI 0.35 to 1.70); TIA, 1.33 (95% CI 0.5 to 3.55); any outcome, 0.83 (95% CI 0.48 to 1.44). Adjustment for cardiovascular risk factors did not change relationships. In older adults factor V Leiden is not a risk factor for future arterial thrombosis.
Cytokine Gene Expression in Human LPS- and IFNγ-stimulated Mononuclear Cells Is Inhibited by Heparin
Authors: Attanasio Monica , Gori Anna Maria , Giusti Betti , Pepe Guglielmina , Comeglio Paolo , Brunelli Tamara , Prisco Domenico , Abbate Rosanna , Gensini Gian Franco , Serneri Gian Gastone Neri
Published: May 2019

In addition to its well-understood anticoagulant activity, heparin is known to modulate a variety of biological functions including immuno-logic responses. In order to investigate whether heparin influences the humoral immunity by interacting with cellular elements and affecting gene expression in blood circulating cells, we studied the effect of heparin on IL-1β, IL-6 and TNFα mRNAs in human lipopolysaccharide(LPS)- or interferon-γ(IFNγ)-stimulated mononuclear cells. The study of mRNA was carried out by an initial PCR screening followed by a Northern blot quantitative analysis. Heparin (0.5 U/ml) turned out to inhibit all three cytokine gene expressions. The mRNA decrease was 37 ± 6% for IL-1 β, 53 ± 3% for IL-6 and 47 ± 4% for TNF α with LPS stimulus. No differences could be observed in the inhibitory effect of heparin on IFNγ-stimulated cells. This effect of heparin was confirmed in a subset of experiments performed on purified monocytes. These results suggest an important immunosuppressive effect of heparin on cell-mediated immune responses.
Intra- and Interindividual Variability of Hemostatic Factors and Traditional Cardiovascular Risk Factors in a Three-year Follow-up
Authors: Salomaa Veikko , Rasi Vesa , Stengård Jari , Vahtera Elina , Pekkanen Juha , Vartiainen Erkki , Ehnholm Christian , Puska Pekka
Published: May 2019

Elucidation of the key role of thrombosis in cardiovascular disease events has arisen considerable interest in hemostatic factors and in the repeatability of their determinations. Data on long-term repeatability has, however, remained scanty. We examined twice 208 men and 265 women in North Karelia, eastern Finland. The baseline examination was a part of the FINRISK 1992 Hemostasis Study and the age-range of participants was between 45-64 years. The re-examination took place three years later in 1995. Both surveys followed the same protocol and were carried out during the same season. Spearman rank correlation coefficients between 1992 and 1995 measurements of fibrinogen, factor VII coagulant activity (FVII:C), factor VII antigen (FVII:Ag), and plasminogen were among men 0.72, 0.77, 0.46 and 0.56, respectively. For total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, triglycerides and diastolic blood pressure the corresponding coefficients were 0.74, 0.83, 0.66, and 0.54. In women, the coefficient of fibrinogen was lower than in men, 0.62, otherwise the results were similar. Of men belonging to the highest quarter of fibrinogen, FVII:C, FVII:Ag and plasminogen in 1992, 65%, 60%, 53% and 60% belonged to the highest quarter of respective distributions also in 1995. In women, the corresponding proportions were 64%, 65%, 46% and 58%. The modest repeatability of FVII:Ag and plasminogen was mainly due to the high intraindividual variability. However, in comparisons of plasma levels between two groups, relatively small sample sizes seemed to give adequate statistical power to detect possible differences in FVII:Ag and plasminogen. In conclusion, the long-term repeatability of fibrinogen and FVII:C is similar to that of triglycerides and even better than that of diastolic blood pressure, but somewhat lower than the repeatability of total cholesterol. FVII:Ag and plasminogen did not have very good repeatability and more than one measurement of them should be considered if they are used as predictors of cardiovascular disease in prospective studies.
Distribution of Tissue Plasminogen Activator Insertion/Deletion Polymorphism in Myocardial Infarction and Control Subjects
Authors: Steeds Rick , Adams Matthew , Smith Pamela , Channer Kevin , Samani Nilesh J.
Published: May 2019

An insertion (I)/deletion (D) polymorphism in the tissue plasminogen activator (TPA) gene locus has recently been reported to be associated with the risk of myocardial infarction (MI) with increased risk in II/ID subjects compared with DD subjects. To investigate this further, we analysed 529 acute MI cases and 525 population-based control subjects recruited in two centers (Leicester and Sheffield, UK). We found no difference between cases and controls in TPA I/D allele frequencies (cases I = 0.574, controls I = 0.582, p = 0.74) or genotype distribution (cases II 33%, ID 48%, DD 19%; controls II 34%, ID 49%, DD 17%, p = 0.88). Compared with the DD genotype, the age, sex and centre adjusted odds ratios for MI for II genotype was 0.95 (95% confidence interval, 0.64 – 1.40, p = 0.85) and that for ID genotype was 0.89 (0.62-1.27, p = 0.56). There was no significant effect modification by smoking status, body mass index or cholesterol level. There was no difference in the reported frequency of positive family history of coronary heart disease or mean age at MI in the different genotype groups. We conclude that in our populations the TPA I/D polymorphism is not a major independent risk factor for myocardial infarction.