bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single-indicator-based Multidimensional Sensing: Detection and Identification of Heavy Metal Ions and Understanding the Foundations from Experiment to Simulation
Authors: Leng Yumin , Qian Sihua , Wang Yuhui , Lu Cheng , Ji Xiaoxu , Lu Zhiwen , Lin Hengwei
Published: May 2016

Multidimensional sensing offers advantages in accuracy, diversity and capability for the simultaneous detection and discrimination of multiple analytes, however, the previous reports usually require complicated synthesis/fabrication process and/or need a variety of techniques (or instruments) to acquire signals. Therefore, to take full advantages of this concept, simple designs are highly desirable. Herein, a novel concept is conceived to construct multidimensional sensing platforms based on a single indicator that has capability of showing diverse color/fluorescence responses with the addition of different analytes. Through extracting hidden information from these responses, such as red, green and blue (RGB) alterations, a triple-channel-based multidimensional sensing platform could consequently be fabricated and the RGB alterations are further applicable to standard statistical methods. As a proof-of-concept study, a triple-channel sensing platform is fabricated solely using dithizone with assistance of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) for hyperchromicity and sensitization, which demonstrates superior capabilities in detection and identification of ten common heavy metal ions at their standard concentrations of wastewater-discharge of China. Moreover, this sensing platform exhibits promising applications in semi-quantitative and even quantitative analysis individuals of these heavy metal ions with high sensitivity as well. Finally, density functional theory calculations are performed to reveal the foundations for this analysis.
Frequency Up-Conversion Photon-Type Terahertz Imager
Authors: Fu Z. L. , Gu L. L. , Guo X. G. , Tan Z. Y. , Wan W. J. , Zhou T. , Shao D. X. , Zhang R. , Cao J. C.
Published: May 2016

Terahertz imaging has many important potential applications. Due to the failure of Si readout integrated circuits (ROICs) and the thermal mismatch between the photo-detector arrays and the ROICs at temperatures below 40 K, there are big technical challenges to construct terahertz photo-type focal plane arrays. In this work, we report pixel-less photo-type terahertz imagers based on the frequency up-conversion technique. The devices are composed of terahertz quantum-well photo-detectors (QWPs) and near-infrared (NIR) light emitting diodes (LEDs) which are grown in sequence on the same substrates using molecular beam epitaxy. In such an integrated QWP-LED device, photocurrent in the QWP drives the LED to emit NIR light. By optimizing the structural parameters of the QWP-LED, the QWP part and the LED part both work well. The maximum values of the internal and external energy up-conversion efficiencies are around 20% and 0.5%. A laser spot of a homemade terahertz quantum cascade laser is imaged by the QWP-LED together with a commercial Si camera. The pixel-less imaging results show that the image blurring induced by the transverse spreading of photocurrent is negligible. The demonstrated pixel-less imaging opens a new way to realize high performance terahertz imaging devices.
The Capacity Gain of Orbital Angular Momentum Based Multiple-Input-Multiple-Output System
Authors: Zhang Zhuofan , Zheng Shilie , Chen Yiling , Jin Xiaofeng , Chi Hao , Zhang Xianmin
Published: May 2016

Wireless communication using electromagnetic wave carrying orbital angular momentum (OAM) has attracted increasing interest in recent years and its potential to increase channel capacity has been explored widely. In this paper, we compare the technique of using uniform linear array consist of circular traveling-wave OAM antennas for multiplexing with the conventional multiple-in-multiple-out (MIMO) communication method and numerical results show that the OAM based MIMO system can increase channel capacity while communication distance is long enough. An equivalent model is proposed to illustrate that the OAM multiplexing system is equivalent to a conventional MIMO system with a larger element spacing, which means OAM waves could decrease the spatial correlation of MIMO channel. In addition, the effects of some system parameters, such as OAM state interval and element spacing, on the capacity advantage of OAM based MIMO are also investigated. Our results reveal that OAM waves are complementary with MIMO method. OAM waves multiplexing is suitable for long-distance line-of-sight (LoS) communications or communications in open area where the multi-path effect is weak and can be used in massive MIMO systems as well.
Mechanistic and quantitative insight into cell surface targeted molecular imaging agent design
Authors: Zhang Liang , Bhatnagar Sumit , Deschenes Emily , Thurber Greg M.
Published: May 2016

Molecular imaging agent design involves simultaneously optimizing multiple probe properties. While several desired characteristics are straightforward, including high affinity and low non-specific background signal, in practice there are quantitative trade-offs between these properties. These include plasma clearance, where fast clearance lowers background signal but can reduce target uptake and binding, where high affinity compounds sometimes suffer from lower stability or increased non-specific interactions. Further complicating probe development, many of the optimal parameters vary depending on both target tissue and imaging agent properties, making empirical approaches or previous experience difficult to translate. Here, we focus on low molecular weight compounds targeting extracellular receptors, which have some of the highest contrast values for imaging agents. We use a mechanistic approach to provide a quantitative framework for weighing trade-offs between molecules. Our results show that specific target uptake is well-described by quantitative simulations for a variety of targeting agents, whereas non-specific background signal is more difficult to predict. Two in vitro experimental methods for estimating background signal in vivo are compared – non-specific cellular uptake and plasma protein binding. Together, these data provide a quantitative method to guide probe design and focus animal work for more cost-effective and time-efficient development of molecular imaging agents.
Controlling Kondo-like Scattering at the SrTiO3-based Interfaces
Authors: Han K. , Palina N. , Zeng S. W. , Huang Z. , Li C. J. , Zhou W. X. , Wan D.-Y. , Zhang L. C. , Chi X. , Guo R. , Chen J. S. , Venkatesan T. , Rusydi A. , Ariando
Published: May 2016

The observation of magnetic interaction at the interface between nonmagnetic oxides has attracted much attention in recent years. In this report, we show that the Kondo-like scattering at the SrTiO3-based conducting interface is enhanced by increasing the lattice mismatch and growth oxygen pressure PO2. For the 26-unit-cell LaAlO3/SrTiO3 (LAO/STO) interface with lattice mismatch being 3.0%, the Kondo-like scattering is observed when PO2 is beyond 1 mTorr. By contrast, when the lattice mismatch is reduced to 1.0% at the (La0.3Sr0.7)(Al0.65Ta0.35)O3/SrTiO3 (LSAT/STO) interface, the metallic state is always preserved up to PO2 of 100 mTorr. The data from Hall measurement and X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy reveal that the larger amount of localized Ti3+ ions are formed at the LAO/STO interface compared to LSAT/STO. Those localized Ti3+ ions with unpaired electrons can be spin-polarized to scatter mobile electrons, responsible for the Kondo-like scattering observed at the LAO/STO interface.
Plant phenological synchrony increases under rapid within-spring warming
Authors: Wang Cong , Tang Yanhong , Chen Jin
Published: May 2016

Phenological synchrony influences many ecological processes. Recent climate change has altered the synchrony of phenology, but little is known about the underlying mechanisms. Here using in situ phenological records from Europe, we found that the standard deviation (SD, as a measure of synchrony) of first leafing day (FLD) and the SD of first flowering day (FFD) among local plants were significantly smaller in the years and/or in the regions with a more rapid within-spring warming speed (WWS, the linear slope of the daily mean temperature against the days during spring, in oC/day) with correlation coefficients of −0.75 and −0.48 for FLD and −0.55 and −0.23 for FFD. We further found that the SDs of temperature sensitivity of local plants were smaller under the rapid WWS conditions with correlation coefficients of −0.46 and −0.33 for FLD and FFD respectively. This study provides the first evidence that the within-season rate of change of the temperature but not the magnitude determines plant phenological synchrony. It implies that temporally, the asymmetric seasonal climatic warming may decrease the synchrony via increasing WWS, especially in arctic regions; spatially, plants in coastal and low latitude areas with low WWS would have more diverse spring phenological traits.
Characteristics, Diagnosis and Prognosis of Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure in Cirrhosis Associated to Hepatitis B.
Authors: Li Hai , Chen Liu-Ying , Zhang Nan-nan , Li Shu-Ting , Zeng Bo , Pavesi Marco , Amorós Àlex , Mookerjee Rajeshwar P , Xia Qian , Xue Feng , Ma Xiong , Hua Jing , Sheng Li , Qiu De-kai , Xie Qing , Foster Graham R , Dusheiko Geoffrey , Moreau Richard , Gines Pere , Arroyo Vicente , Jalan Rajiv
Published: May 2016

The diagnostic and prognostic criteria of acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) were developed in patients with no Hepatitis B virus (HBV) cirrhosis (CANONIC study). The aims of this study were to evaluate whether the diagnostic (CLIF-C organ failure score; CLIF-C OFs) criteria can be used to classify patients; and the prognostic score (CLIF-C ACLF score) could be used to provide prognostic information in HBV cirrhotic patients with ACLF. 890 HBV associated cirrhotic patients with acute decompensation (AD) were enrolled. Using the CLIF-C OFs, 33.7% (300 patients) were diagnosed as ACLF. ACLF was more common in the younger patients and in those with no previous history of decompensation. The most common organ failures were ‘hepatic’ and ‘coagulation’. As in the CANONIC study, 90-day mortality was extremely low in the non-ACLF patients compared with ACLF patients (4.6% vs 50%, p < 0.0001). ACLF grade and white cell count, were independent predictors of mortality. CLIF-C ACLFs accurately predicted short-term mortality, significantly better than the MELDs and a disease specific score generated for the HBV patients. Current study indicates that ACLF is a clinically and pathophysiology distinct even in HBV patients. Consequently, diagnostic criteria, prognostic scores and probably the management of ACLF should base on similar principles.
Cryo-Imaging of Hydrogels Supermolecular Structure
Authors: Marmorat Clement , Arinstein Arkadii , Koifman Naama , Talmon Yeshayahu , Zussman Eyal , Rafailovich Miriam
Published: May 2016

Gelatin, derived from collagen, has both the mechanical properties required for tissue growth, as well the functional domains required for cell binding. In its natural state, gelatin derives its properties from a network of structured, intertwined, triple helical chains, which is stabilized by hydrogen bonds at temperatures below 37 °C. The mechanical properties of such a structure can be further controlled by additional enzymatic cross-linking. But, in contrast to simple polymer systems, the response to an imposed deformation is here determined by two competing factors: the establishment of the cross-linked mesh vs. the self-assembly of the fibrils into larger and stronger hierarchical structures. Therefore, properties deduced from the response to measurements such as rheology or swelling, are a combination of these two very different factors, hence a modeling is impossible unless more precise knowledge regarding the internal structure is available. The cryogenic-temperature scanning electron microscopy (cryo-SEM) was adopted to image the fully hydrated gelatin network in which distinct chain folding was observed at low densities, while cross-linked networks were observed at higher densities. Based on these images, a theoretical model which results in good agreement between the mesh sizes of both networks and their mechanical properties was developed.
Improved Superconducting properties in the Mg11B2 low activation superconductor prepared by low-temperature sintering
Authors: Cheng Fang , Liu Yongchang , Ma Zongqing , Shahriar Al Hossain M. , Somer M.
Published: May 2016

Mg11B2 has a great application prospect in the superconducting coils for fusion reactor as the “low activation superconductors”. The un-doped Mg11B2 and Cu-doped Mg11B2 bulks using 11B as a boron precursor were fabricated by low-temperature sintering in present work. It was found that the prepared Mg11B2 low activation superconductors exhibit better Jc performance than all of other Mg11B2 samples reported in previous studies. As for Cu doped Mg11B2, minor Cu addition can obviously improve the Mg11B2 grain crystallization and reduce the amount of MgO impurity. Hence, improved grain connectivity and higher Jc at low fields is obtained in Cu doped Mg11B2 samples. For un-doped samples, refined grains and more MgO impurity with proper size brought about more flux pinning centers, resulting in better Jc performance at high fields.
The calcium pump plasma membrane Ca2+-ATPase 2 (PMCA2) regulates breast cancer cell proliferation and sensitivity to doxorubicin
Authors: Peters Amelia A. , Milevskiy Michael J. G. , Lee Wei C. , Curry Merril C. , Smart Chanel E. , Saunus Jodi M. , Reid Lynne , da Silva Leonard , Marcial Daneth L. , Dray Eloise , Brown Melissa A. , Lakhani Sunil R. , Roberts-Thomson Sarah J. , Monteith Gregory R.
Published: May 2016

Regulation of Ca2+ transport is vital in physiological processes, including lactation, proliferation and apoptosis. The plasmalemmal Ca2+ pump isoform 2 (PMCA2) a calcium ion efflux pump, was the first protein identified to be crucial in the transport of Ca2+ ions into milk during lactation in mice. In these studies we show that PMCA2 is also expressed in human epithelia undergoing lactational remodeling and also report strong PMCA2 staining on apical membranes of luminal epithelia in approximately 9% of human breast cancers we assessed. Membrane protein expression was not significantly associated with grade or hormone receptor status. However, PMCA2 mRNA levels were enriched in Basal breast cancers where it was positively correlated with survival. Silencing of PMCA2 reduced MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell proliferation, whereas silencing of the related isoforms PMCA1 and PMCA4 had no effect. PMCA2 silencing also sensitized MDA-MB-231 cells to the cytotoxic agent doxorubicin. Targeting PMCA2 alone or in combination with cytotoxic therapy may be worthy of investigation as a therapeutic strategy in breast cancer. PMCA2 mRNA levels are also a potential tool in identifying poor responders to therapy in women with Basal breast cancer.
Identifying novel genes and chemicals related to nasopharyngeal cancer in a heterogeneous network
Authors: Li Zhandong , An Lifeng , Li Hao , Wang ShaoPeng , Zhou You , Yuan Fei , Li Lin
Published: May 2016

Nasopharyngeal cancer or nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is the most common cancer originating in the nasopharynx. The factors that induce nasopharyngeal cancer are still not clear. Additional information about the chemicals or genes related to nasopharyngeal cancer will promote a better understanding of the pathogenesis of this cancer and the factors that induce it. Thus, a computational method NPC-RGCP was proposed in this study to identify the possible relevant chemicals and genes based on the presently known chemicals and genes related to nasopharyngeal cancer. To extensively utilize the functional associations between proteins and chemicals, a heterogeneous network was constructed based on interactions of proteins and chemicals. The NPC-RGCP included two stages: the searching stage and the screening stage. The former stage is for finding new possible genes and chemicals in the heterogeneous network, while the latter stage is for screening and removing false discoveries and selecting the core genes and chemicals. As a result, five putative genes, CXCR3, IRF1, CDK1, GSTP1 and CDH2 and seven putative chemicals, iron, propionic acid, dimethyl sulfoxide, isopropanol, erythrose 4-phosphate, β-D-Fructose 6-phosphate and flavin adenine dinucleotide, were identified by NPC-RGCP. Extensive analyses provided confirmation that the putative genes and chemicals have significant associations with nasopharyngeal cancer.
Silencing of sterol glycosyltransferases modulates the withanolide biosynthesis and leads to compromised basal immunity of Withania somnifera
Authors: Singh Gaurav , Tiwari Manish , Singh Surendra Pratap , Singh Surendra , Trivedi Prabodh Kumar , Misra Pratibha
Published: May 2016

Sterol glycosyltransferases (SGTs) catalyse transfer of glycon moiety to sterols and their related compounds to produce diverse glyco-conjugates or steryl glycosides with different biological and pharmacological activities. Functional studies of SGTs from Withania somnifera indicated their role in abiotic stresses but details about role under biotic stress are still unknown. Here, we have elucidated the function of SGTs by silencing SGTL1, SGTL2 and SGTL4 in Withania somnifera. Down-regulation of SGTs by artificial miRNAs led to the enhanced accumulation of withanolide A, withaferin A, sitosterol, stigmasterol and decreased content of withanoside V in Virus Induced Gene Silencing (VIGS) lines. This was further correlated with increased expression of WsHMGR, WsDXR, WsFPPS, WsCYP710A1, WsSTE1 and WsDWF5 genes, involved in withanolide biosynthesis. These variations of withanolide concentrations in silenced lines resulted in pathogen susceptibility as compared to control plants. The infection of Alternaria alternata causes increased salicylic acid, callose deposition, superoxide dismutase and H2O2 in aMIR-VIGS lines. The expression of biotic stress related genes, namely, WsPR1, WsDFS, WsSPI and WsPR10 were also enhanced in aMIR-VIGS lines in time dependent manner. Taken together, our observations revealed that a positive feedback regulation of withanolide biosynthesis occurred by silencing of SGTLs which resulted in reduced biotic tolerance.
Tinospora cordifolia ameliorates anxiety-like behavior and improves cognitive functions in acute sleep deprived rats
Authors: Mishra Rachana , Manchanda Shaffi , Gupta Muskan , Kaur Taranjeet , Saini Vedangana , Sharma Anuradha , Kaur Gurcharan
Published: May 2016

Sleep deprivation (SD) leads to the spectrum of mood disorders like anxiety, cognitive dysfunctions and motor coordination impairment in many individuals. However, there is no effective pharmacological remedy to negate the effects of SD. The current study examined whether 50% ethanolic extract of Tinospora cordifolia (TCE) can attenuate these negative effects of SD. Three groups of adult Wistar female rats - (1) vehicle treated-sleep undisturbed (VUD), (2) vehicle treated-sleep deprived (VSD) and (3) TCE treated-sleep deprived (TSD) animals were tested behaviorally for cognitive functions, anxiety and motor coordination. TSD animals showed improved behavioral response in EPM and NOR tests for anxiety and cognitive functions, respectively as compared to VSD animals. TCE pretreatment modulated the stress induced-expression of plasticity markers PSA-NCAM, NCAM and GAP-43 along with proteins involved in the maintenance of LTP i.e., CamKII-α and calcineurin (CaN) in hippocampus and PC regions of the brain. Interestingly, contrary to VSD animals, TSD animals showed downregulated expression of inflammatory markers such as CD11b/c, MHC-1 and cytokines along with inhibition of apoptotic markers. This data suggests that TCE alone or in combination with other memory enhancing agents may help in managing sleep deprivation associated stress and improving cognitive functions.
Frequency-selective propagation of localized spoof surface plasmons in a graded plasmonic resonator chain
Authors: Gao Zhen , Gao Fei , Shastri Kunal Krishnaraj , Zhang Baile
Published: May 2016

Localized spoof surface plasmon polaritons (spoof-SPPs) in a graded spoof-plasmonic resonator chain with linearly increasing spacing are experimentally investigated at microwave frequencies. Transmission measurements and direct near-field mappings on this graded chain show that the propagation of localized spoof-SPPs can be cutoff at different positions along the graded chain under different frequencies due to the graded coupling between adjacent resonators. This mechanism can be used to guide localized spoof-SPPs in the graded chain to specific positions depending on the frequency and thereby implement a device that can work as a selective switch in integrated plasmonic circuits.
Electrochemical technologies for wastewater treatment and resource reclamation
Authors: Feng Yujie , Yang Lisha , Liu Junfeng , Logan Bruce E.
Published: May 2016

Electrochemical processes that can be used for wastewater treatment and resource reclamation are reviewed with suggestions for future research directions.
Fast determination of diphenhydramine, pyridoxine, and 8-chlorotheophylline by capillary electrophoresis with capacitively coupled contactless conductivity detection
Authors: Ribeiro Michelle M. A. C. , Freitas Jhonys M. , Muñoz Rodrigo A. A. , do Lago Claudimir L. , Richter Eduardo M.
Published: May 2016

This work reports a new and fast method for the simultaneous determination of diphenhydramine, pyridoxine, and 8-chlorotheophylline by CE-C4D.
β-Peptide bundles: Design. Build. Analyze. Biosynthesize.
Authors: Wang Pam S. P. , Schepartz Alanna
Published: May 2016

A perspective on the design and elaboration of β-peptide bundles, non-natural assemblies that exhibit many protein-like properties.
Isomorphous template induced crystallisation: a robust method for the targeted crystallisation of computationally predicted metastable polymorphs
Authors: Srirambhatla Vijay K. , Guo Rui , Price Sarah L. , Florence Alastair J.
Published: May 2016

A new method of inducing the crystallisation of metastable polymorphs by isomorphous templating has been developed using DHC-II crystal surfaces to reproduce CBZ-V and to produce a new polymorph, CYH-III.
Towards medicinal mechanochemistry: evolution of milling from pharmaceutical solid form screening to the synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs)
Authors: Tan Davin , Loots Leigh , Friščić Tomislav
Published: May 2016

Development of mechanochemistry for API synthesis and pharmaceutical solid form screening signals the emergence of medicinal mechanochemistry – a discipline at the interface of medicinal chemistry and sustainable synthesis.
Charge carrier kinetics of carbon nitride colloid: a femtosecond transient absorption spectroscopy study
Authors: Zhang Huiyu , Chen Yaping , Lu Rong , Li Ruiyu , Yu Anchi
Published: May 2016

The charge carrier kinetics of carbon nitride colloid was investigated using a combination of femtosecond transient absorption and picosecond time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy.
Structural investigations on a linear isolated depsipeptide: the importance of dispersion interactions
Authors: Stamm A. , Bernhard D. , Gerhards M.
Published: May 2016

The first molecular beam investigations of an isolated linear depsipeptide are presented. By applying IR/UV spectroscopic methods and DFT calculations three structural arrangements are identified with the most stable structure being only stable by including dispersion interactions.
Strain enhancement of acoustic phonon limited mobility in monolayer TiS3
Authors: Aierken Yierpan , Çakır Deniz , Peeters Francois M.
Published: May 2016

Strain engineering is an effective way to tune the intrinsic properties of a material.
Non-injection synthesis of monodisperse Cu–Fe–S nanocrystals and their size dependent properties
Authors: Gabka Grzegorz , Bujak Piotr , Żukrowski Jan , Zabost Damian , Kotwica Kamil , Malinowska Karolina , Ostrowski Andrzej , Wielgus Ireneusz , Lisowski Wojciech , Sobczak Janusz W. , Przybylski Marek , Pron Adam
Published: May 2016

We present a new, simple heating up method leading to the smallest Cu–Fe–S nanocrystals ever reported (from 2 to 3 nm).
Supramolecular gels made from nucleobase, nucleoside and nucleotide analogs
Authors: Peters Gretchen Marie , Davis Jeffery T.
Published: May 2016

Supramolecular or molecular gels are attractive for various applications, including diagnostics, tissue scaffolding and targeted drug release.
The dilemma in prioritizing chemicals for environmental analysis: known versus unknown hazards
Authors: Anna Sobek , Sofia Bejgarn , Christina Rudén , Magnus Breitholtz
Published: May 2016

A major challenge for society is to manage the risks posed by the many chemicals continuously emitted to the environment.
One-pot multiple reactions: asymmetric synthesis of 2,6-cis-disubstituted piperidine alkaloids from chiral aziridine
Authors: Yadav Nagendra Nath , Choi Jihye , Ha Hyun-Joon
Published: May 2016

2,6-cis-Disubstituted piperidine alkaloids were synthesized from chiral aziridines through one-pot multiple reactions.
Polymerization of ethylene oxide under controlled monomer addition via a mass flow controller for tailor made polyethylene oxides
Authors: Vitz Jürgen , Majdanski Tobias C. , Meier Alexander , Lutz Pierre J. , Schubert Ulrich S.
Published: May 2016

The synthesis of polymers with controlled molecular and structural parameters is challenging due to the required purity of the chemicals and the exclusion of protic impurities and oxygen in particular in the case of an anionic process as shown here.
Synthesis of sodium polyacrylate–bentonite using in situ polymerization for Pb2+ removal from aqueous solutions
Authors: He Youjun , Pei Meishan , Xue Ni , Wang Luyan , Guo Wenjuan
Published: May 2016

A sodium polyacrylate–bentonite material (PAANa–Bent), as an adsorbent for heavy metal ions, is synthesized for the first time using in situ polymerization.
Cube-like Ag/AgCl fabricated via a photoirradiation method and its substantially boosted plasmonic photocatalytic reactivity by an oxidation–chloridization treatment
Authors: Xiao Dan , Li Tiesheng , Wang Yanping , Chen Penglei , Geng Guangwei , Liu Minghua
Published: May 2016

Cube-like Ag/AgCl species are produced by a photoirradiation method, where substantially boosted plasmonic photocatalytic reactivity has been realized via an oxidation–chloridization treatment.
Growth, structure and magnetism of ε-Fe2O3in nanoparticle form
Authors: López-Sánchez J. , Muñoz-Noval A. , Serrano A. , Abuín M. , de la Figuera J. , Marco J. F. , Pérez L. , Carmona N. , Rodríguez de la Fuente O.
Published: May 2016

We present a novel and easy synthetic path to prepare ε-Fe2O3(∼90%) with a small portion of α-Fe2O3nanoparticles embedded in an amorphous silica matrix.
Compositional effect of Cr contamination susceptibility of La9.83Si6−x−yAlxFeyO26±δ apatite-type SOFC electrolytes in contact with CROFER 22 APU
Authors: Pandis P. K. , Xenogiannopoulou E. , Sakkas P. M. , Sourkouni G. , Argirusis Ch. , Stathopoulos V. N.
Published: May 2016

Apatite type lanthanum silicate (ATLS) electrolytes in contact with CROFER 22 APU exhibit a compositional effect on their Cr contamination susceptibility.
Synthesis and characterization of chitosan–zinc composite electrodeposits with enhanced antibacterial properties
Authors: Zhai Xiaofan , Sun Congtao , Li Ke , Guan Fang , Liu Xueqing , Duan Jizhou , Hou Baorong
Published: May 2016

Chitosan–zinc composite electrodeposits with enhanced broad-spectrum bactericidal property were successfully synthesized based on the chelation action for marine application.
An ultrasensitive nanobiohybrid platform for glucose electrochemical biosensing based on ferrocenyl iminopropyl-modified silica nanoparticles
Authors: Saadaoui M. , Braiek M. , Jaffrezic-Renault N. , Raouafi N.
Published: May 2016

A novel nanobiohybrid platform based on ferrocenyl iminopropyl-modified silica nanoparticle conjugates (fap-SiNPs), entrapped in glucose oxidase (GOx) and bovine serum albumin cross-linked with glutaraldehyde, was developed.
In situ synthesis of highly-active Pt nanoclusters via thermal decomposition for high-temperature catalytic reactions
Authors: Ouyang S. C. , Wang L. W. , Du X. W. , Zhang C. , Yang J.
Published: May 2016

An in situ preparation strategy was developed via thermal decomposition towards highly active supported Pt nanocatalysts for high-temperature catalytic dehydrogenation reactions.
Turn-off fluorescence probe for the selective determination of pendimethalin using a mechanistic docking model of novel oxacalix[4]arene
Authors: Panchal Manthan , Athar Mohd. , Jha P. C. , Kongor Anita , Mehta Viren , Bhatt Keyur , Jain Vinod
Published: May 2016

A novel bidansylated oxacalix[4]arene (BDO) fluoroionophore for the selective determination of pendimethalin (PM) was carried out in the linear range of detection between 0.4 μM and 20 μM.
Selective detection of carbon monoxide (CO) gas by reduced graphene oxide (rGO) at room temperature
Authors: Panda Dipankar , Nandi Anupam , Datta Swapan K. , Saha Hiranmay , Majumdar Sanhita
Published: May 2016

Graphene materials have been widely explored for fabrication of gas sensors because of their atom-thick two-dimensional conjugated structures, high conductivity and large specific surface area.
Exploring the origin of the anomeric relationships in 2-cyanooxane, 2-cyanothiane, 2-cyanoselenane and their corresponding isocyano isomers. Correlations between hyper-conjugative anomeric effect, hardness and electrostatic interactions
Authors: Ghanbarpour Peyvand , Nori-Shargh Davood
Published: May 2016

The impacts of the HCAE, hardness, PETR and electrostatic interactions on the anomeric relationships in 2-cyanooxane, -thiane, -selenane and their iso-cyano isomers have been explored.
Anatase TiO2 nanoparticle coating on porous COK-12 platelets as highly active and reusable photocatalysts
Authors: Wee L. H. , Meledina M. , Turner S. , Custers K. , Kerkhofs S. , Sree S. P. , Gobechiya E. , Kirschhock C. E. A. , Van Tendeloo G. , Martens J. A.
Published: May 2016

Coating of anatase TiO2 nanoparticles on ordered mesoporous silica COK-12 platelets for effective photodegradation of various organic pollutants under UV light irradiation.
The effects of LiTi2(PO4)3modification on the performance of spherical Li1.5Ni0.25Mn0.75O2+δcathode material
Authors: Wang Gang , Wang Xianyou , Yi Liling , Wang Lianwu , Yu Ruizhi , Liu Meihong , Wang Di , Ren Qifang , Yang Xiukang
Published: May 2016

Effect of LiTi2(PO4)3coating on the electrochemical properties of spherical layered Li1.5Ni0.25Mn0.75O2+δcathode material.
Modeling the degradation and recovery of perovskite solar cells
Authors: Sohrabpoor Hamed , Puccetti Giovanni , Gorji Nima E.
Published: May 2016

Degradation and recovery can be modelled differently for every bias range.
Role of counter-ion and helper lipid content in the design and properties of nanocarrier systems: a biophysical study in 2D and 3D lipid assemblies
Authors: Oliveira Ana C. N. , Nogueira Sara S. , Gonçalves Odete , Cerqueira M. F. , Alpuim P. , Tovar Júlia , Rodriguez-Abreu Carlos , Brezesinski Gerald , Gomes Andreia C. , Lúcio Marlene , Oliveira M. E. C. D. Real
Published: May 2016

This study validates a model for DODAX : MO assemblies highlighting the role of counter-ion and MO content in their biophysical properties.
Tandem Mannich/Diels–Alder reactions for the synthesis of indole compound libraries
Authors: Wu Peng , Petersen Michael Åxman , Petersen Rico , Flagstad Thomas , Guilleux Rachel , Ohsten Martin , Morgentin Rémy , Nielsen Thomas E. , Clausen Mads H.
Published: May 2016

A core scaffold for screening library production was synthesized in just four steps using a tandem Mannich/Diels–Alder sequence.
Trifluoromethylation of haloarenes with a new trifluoro-methylating reagent Cu(O2CCF2SO2F)2
Authors: Zhao Gang , Wu Hao , Xiao Zhiwei , Chen Qing-Yun , Liu Chao
Published: May 2016

A new trifluoromethylating reagent Cu(O2CCF2SO2F)2, which easily decomposes to generate active CuCF3 species in DMF at room temperature, has been conveniently prepared from inexpensive starting materials on a large scale.
A highly active hydrogen evolution electrocatalyst based on a cobalt–nickel sulfide composite electrode
Authors: Ansovini Davide , Jun Lee Coryl Jing , Chua Chin Sheng , Ong Lay Ting , Tan Hui Ru , Webb William R. , Raja Robert , Lim Yee-Fun
Published: May 2016

A cobalt–nickel sulfide composite electrode synthesized onto Ni foam through a facile thermal decomposition method showed remarkable activity towards electrocatalytic hydrogen production.
Salt-template-assisted synthesis of robust 3D honeycomb-like structured MoS2 and its application as a lithium-ion battery anode
Authors: Zhou Jingwen , Qin Jian , Zhao Naiqin , Shi Chunsheng , Liu En-Zuo , He Fang , Li Jiajun , He Chunnian
Published: May 2016

3D honeycomb-like structured MoS2 fabricated by a salt template-assisted solid-phase synthesis strategy exhibits excellent lithium storage performance.
Donor–acceptor conjugated polymers based on thieno[3,2-b]indole (TI) and 2,1,3-benzothiadiazole (BT) for high efficiency polymer solar cells
Authors: Huang Hongyan , Qiu Meng , Li Quan , Liu Shuli , Zhang Xinzhen , Wang Zheng , Fu Nina , Zhao Baomin , Yang Renqiang , Huang Wei
Published: May 2016

Three conjugated polymers based on the thieno[3,2-b]indole (TI) unit as electron-donor block and benzothiadiazole (BT) as electron-accepting block and thiophene rings as spacers. Their photovoltaic performance were finely tuned by thiophene spacers.
Dissecting the role of ADAM10 as a mediator of Staphylococcus aureus α-toxin action
Authors: von Hoven Gisela , Rivas Amable J. , Neukirch Claudia , Klein Stefan , Hamm Christian , Qin Qianqian , Meyenburg Martina , Füser Sabine , Saftig Paul , Hellmann Nadja , Postina Rolf , Husmann Matthias
Published: May 2016

Staphylococcus aureus is a leading cause of bacterial infections in humans, including life-threatening diseases such as pneumonia and sepsis. Its small membrane-pore-forming α-toxin is considered an important virulence factor. By destroying cell–cell contacts through cleavage of cadherins, the metalloproteinase ADAM10 (a disintegrin and metalloproteinase 10) critically contributes to α-toxin-dependent pathology of experimental S. aureus infections in mice. Moreover, ADAM10 was proposed to be a receptor for α-toxin. However, it is unclear whether the catalytic activity or specific domains of ADAM10 are involved in mediating binding and/or subsequent cytotoxicity of α-toxin. Also, it is not known how α-toxin triggers ADAM10’s enzymatic activity, and whether ADAM10 is invariably required for all α-toxin action on cells. In the present study, we show that efficient cleavage of the ADAM10 substrate epithelial cadherin (E-cadherin) requires supra-cytotoxic concentrations of α-toxin, leading to significant increases in intracellular [Ca2+]; the fall in cellular ATP levels, typically following membrane perforation, became observable at far lower concentrations. Surprisingly, ADAM10 was dispensable for α-toxin-dependent xenophagic targeting of S. aureus, whereas a role for α-toxin attack on the plasma membrane was confirmed. The catalytic site of ADAM10, furin cleavage site, cysteine switch and intracellular domain of ADAM10 were not required for α-toxin binding and subsequent cytotoxicity. In contrast, an essential role for the disintegrin domain and the prodomain emerged. Thus, co-expression of the prodomain with prodomain-deficient ADAM10 reconstituted binding of α-toxin and susceptibility of ADAM10-deficient cells. The results of the present study may help to inform structural analyses of α-toxin–ADAM10 interactions and to design novel strategies to counteract S. aureus α-toxin action.
Segmentation of the right ventricle in MRI images using a dual active shape model
Authors: El‐Rewaidy Hossam , Ibrahim El‐Sayed , Fahmy Ahmed S
Published: May 2016

Active shape models (ASM) showed to have potential for segmenting the right ventricle (RV) in cardiac magnetic resonance images (MRIs). Nevertheless, the large variability and complexity of the RV shape do not allow for concisely capturing all possible shape variations among patients and anatomical cross‐sections. Noticeably, the latter increases the number of iterations required to converge to a proper solution and reduces the segmentation accuracy. In this study, the authors propose a new ASM framework that can model the RV shape in short‐axis cardiac MRI images. In this framework, the RV contour is split into two simpler segments, septal (SP) and free wall, whose shape variations are independently modelled using two separate (dual) ASM models. The contour splitting is done at the location of the RV insertion points into the SP wall. Further, instead of using the conventional Procrustes method, the RV contours are aligned using the Bookstein coordinate transformation, which uses the RV insertion points as landmarks to linearly align the RV contours. The results from a dataset of 14 patients show that the proposed framework outperforms the conventional ASM framework and can model complex RV shape variation with more accuracy and in less iteration steps.
Type 2B von Willebrand Disease: A Matter of Plasma Plus Platelet Abnormality
Authors: Castaman Giancarlo , Federici Augusto
Published: May 2016

Type 2B von Willebrand disease (VWD2B) is a rare, autosomal-dominant inherited bleeding disorder, characterized by an enhanced ristocetin-induced platelet aggregation in platelet-rich plasma and often with variable degree of thrombocytopenia and loss of high-molecular-weight multimers von Willebrand factor (VWF). All these phenomena are caused by a mutant VWF, normally synthesized and assembled by endothelial cells, but with heightened affinity binding to the platelet receptor glycoprotein Ib-α (GpIb-α). When this abnormal VWF is released into the circulation and under specific clinical circumstances, in vivo platelet clumping is observed. Mutations, invariably clustered in exon 28 of the VWF gene encoding for the VWF A1 domain involved in VWF binding to GpIb-α, are responsible for VWD2B phenotype. Clinical and laboratory phenotype appears strongly related to the type of VWF-causative mutations. However, recent evidences suggest that a true platelet defect is also present in this type, with several morphological and functional abnormalities being detected in a subset of VWD2B patients.
The Efficacy of Platelet-Rich Plasma in the Treatment of Rib Fractures
Authors: Candan Huseyin , Yılmaz Rahsan , Eser Irfan , Aydoğmus Umit , Gunay Samil
Published: May 2016

Background Rib fracture is the most common result of thoracic traumas. Intrapulmonary shunt, alveolar capillary membrane damage, intra-alveolar hemorrhage, and hypoxia may develop following rib fractures. Therefore, prompt treatment is important. The aim of this experimental study was to analyze the effects of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) on rib fractures to secure a speedier and more efficient treatment method.

Materials and Methods The study involved 18 New Zealand white rabbits, randomly divided into three groups as Group 1, the sham group with no surgical intervention; Group 2, the control group in which simple rib fractures were applied and no treatment; and Group 3, in which rib fractures were applied and then PRP treatment was administered.

Results The mean recovery plate thickness measurements were found to be statistically significantly higher in the PRP group compared with the other groups (p < 0.005). A thicker fibrotic cell proliferation and the formation of many capillaries were observed around the growth plate in the PRP group compared with the other groups. These structures were lesser in the control group compared with the PRP group and at the lowest level in the sham group. Larger and distinct callus formation was observed and a new intramedullary field in the PRP group.

Conclusions PRP is a reliable and effective autologous product with minimal side effects, which can be considered as an alternative treatment in patients with rib fractures and used easily in pseudoarthrosis, surgical fracture, or flail chest.
Treatment of a Large Traumatic Encephalocele with Titanium Mesh
Authors: do Canto Alan Motta , Pinotti Manuela Monteiro , Maciel Fernando Alves , Todeschini Alexandre Bossi , Aguiar Guilherme Brasileiro , de Freitas Ronaldo Rodrigues
Published: May 2016

Encephalocele is defined as protrusion of cranial contents beyond the normal confines of the skull. Although most encephalocele cases have a congenital etiology, fractures of the skull base can cause traumatic encephalocele. In most encephalocele cases, the bone defect presents reduced dimensions and the endoscopic treatment is generally performed to reconstruct the area using mucosal and/or fat grafts. This article sought to report on a rare case of traumatic encephalocele associated with an extensive defect of the anterior skull base. This case was treated via transcranial access, and reconstruction was performed using titanium mesh in conjunction with a pericranium flap.
An improved hydrothermal diamond anvil cell
Authors: Li Jiankang , Bassett W. A. , Chou I-Ming , Ding Xin , Li Shenghu , Wang Xinyan
Published: May 2016

A new type of HDAC-V hydrothermal diamond anvil cell (HDAC-VT) has been designed to meet the demands of X-ray research including X-Ray Fluorescence, X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy, and small angle X-ray scattering. The earlier version of HDAC-V that offered a large rectangular solid angle used two posts and two driver screws on both sides of a rectangular body. The new version HDAC-VT in a triangular shape has two alternative guide systems, either three posts inserted into bushings suitable for small anvil faces or linear ball bearings suitable for large anvil faces. The HDAC-VT having three driver screws offers the advantage of greater control and stability even though it sacrifices some of the size of solid angle. The greater control allows better sealing of samples, while greater stability results in longer survival for anvils and ceramic parts. This improved design retains several beneficial features of the original HDAC-V as well. These include the small collar that surrounds the heater and sample chamber forming an Ar + H2 gas chamber to protect diamonds and their heating parts from being oxidized. Three linear ball bearings, when used, fit to the three posts prevent seizing that can result from deterioration of lubricant at high temperatures. Positioning the posts and bearings outside of the gas chamber as in HDAC-V also prevents seizing and possible deformation due to overheating. In order to control the heating rate precisely with computer software, we use Linkam T95 and have replaced the Linkam 1400XY heating stage with the HDAC-VT allowing the HDAC to be heated to 950 °C at a rate from 0.01 °C/min to 50 °C/min. We have used the HDAC-VT and Linkam T95 to observe in situ nucleation and growth of zabuyelite in aqueous fluid and to homogenize melt inclusions in quartz from three porphyry deposits in Shanxi, China.
Recombination centers in 4H-SiC investigated by electrically detected magnetic resonance and ab initio modeling
Authors: Cottom J. , Gruber G. , Hadley P. , Koch M. , Pobegen G. , Aichinger T. , Shluger A.
Published: May 2016

Electrically detected magnetic resonance (EDMR) is a powerful technique for the observation and categorization of paramagnetic defects within semiconductors. The interpretation of the recorded EDMR spectra has long proved to be challenging. Here, defect spectra are identified by comparing EDMR measurements with extensive ab initio calculations. The defect identification is based upon the defect symmetry and the form of the hyperfine (HF) structure. A full description is given of how an accurate spectrum can be generated from the theoretical data by considering some thousand individual HF contributions out of some billion possibilities. This approach is illustrated with a defect observed in nitrogen implanted silicon carbide (SiC). Nitrogen implantation is a high energy process that gives rise to a high defect concentration. The majority of these defects are removed during the dopant activation anneal, shifting the interstitial nitrogen to the desired substitutional lattice sites, where they act as shallow donors. EDMR shows that a deep-level defect persists after the dopant activation anneal. This defect is characterized as having a gc∥B=2.0054(4) and gc⊥B=2.0006(4), with pronounced hyperfine shoulder peaks with a 13 G peak to peak separation. The nitrogen at a carbon site next to a silicon vacancy (NCVSi) center is identified as the persistent deep-level defect responsible for the observed EDMR signal and the associated dopant deactivation.
Spin wave mediated unidirectional vortex core reversal by two orthogonal monopolar field pulses: The essential role of three-dimensional magnetization dynamics
Authors: Noske Matthias , Stoll Hermann , Fähnle Manfred , Gangwar Ajay , Woltersdorf Georg , Slavin Andrei , Weigand Markus , Dieterle Georg , Förster Johannes , Back Christian H. , Schütz Gisela
Published: May 2016

Scanning transmission x-ray microscopy is employed to investigate experimentally the reversal of the magnetic vortex core polarity in cylindrical Ni81Fe19 nanodisks triggered by two orthogonal monopolar magnetic field pulses with peak amplitude B0, pulse length τ=60 ps, and delay time Δt in the range from −400 ps to +400 ps  between the two pulses. The two pulses are oriented in-plane in the x- and y-directions. We have experimentally studied vortex core reversal as a function of B0 and Δt. The resulting phase diagram shows large regions of unidirectional vortex core switching where the switching threshold is modulated due to resonant amplification of azimuthal spin waves. The switching behavior changes dramatically depending on whether the first pulse is applied in the x- or the y-direction. This asymmetry can be reproduced by three-dimensional micromagnetic simulations but not by two-dimensional simulations. This behavior demonstrates that in contrast to the previous experiments on vortex core reversal, the three-dimensionality in the dynamics is essential here.
Future microfluidic and nanofluidic modular platforms for nucleic acid liquid biopsy in precision medicine
Authors: Egatz-Gomez Ana , Wang Ceming , Klacsmann Flora , Pan Zehao , Marczak Steve , Wang Yunshan , Sun Gongchen , Senapati Satyajyoti , Chang Hsueh-Chia
Published: May 2016

Nucleic acid biomarkers have enormous potential in non-invasive diagnostics and disease management. In medical research and in the near future in the clinics, there is a great demand for accurate miRNA, mRNA, and ctDNA identification and profiling. They may lead to screening of early stage cancer that is not detectable by tissue biopsy or imaging. Moreover, because their cost is low and they are non-invasive, they can become a regular screening test during annual checkups or allow a dynamic treatment program that adjusts its drug and dosage frequently. We briefly review a few existing viral and endogenous RNA assays that have been approved by the Federal Drug Administration. These tests are based on the main nucleic acid detection technologies, namely, quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (PCR), microarrays, and next-generation sequencing. Several of the challenges that these three technologies still face regarding the quantitative measurement of a panel of nucleic acids are outlined. Finally, we review a cluster of microfluidic technologies from our group with potential for point-of-care nucleic acid quantification without nucleic acid amplification, designed to overcome specific limitations of current technologies. We suggest that integration of these technologies in a modular design can offer a low-cost, robust, and yet sensitive/selective platform for a variety of precision medicine applications.