bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Widespread diminishing anthropogenic effects on calcium in freshwaters
Authors: Weyhenmeyer Gesa A. , Hartmann Jens , Hessen Dag O. , Kopáček Jiří , Hejzlar Josef , Jacquet Stéphan , Hamilton Stephen K. , Verburg Piet , Leach Taylor H. , Schmid Martin , Flaim Giovanna , Nõges Tiina , Nõges Peeter , Wentzky Valerie C. , Rogora Michela , Rusak James A. , Kosten Sarian , Paterson Andrew M. , Teubner Katrin , Higgins Scott N. , Lawrence Gregory , Kangur Külli , Kokorite Ilga , Cerasino Leonardo , Funk Clara , Harvey Rebecca , Moatar Florentina , de Wit Heleen A. , Zechmeister Thomas
Published: July 2019

Calcium (Ca) is an essential element for almost all living organisms. Here, we examined global variation and controls of freshwater Ca concentrations, using 440 599 water samples from 43 184 inland water sites in 57 countries. We found that the global median Ca concentration was 4.0 mg L−1 with 20.7% of the water samples showing Ca concentrations ≤ 1.5 mg L−1, a threshold considered critical for the survival of many Ca-demanding organisms. Spatially, freshwater Ca concentrations were strongly and proportionally linked to carbonate alkalinity, with the highest Ca and carbonate alkalinity in waters with a pH around 8.0 and decreasing in concentrations towards lower pH. However, on a temporal scale, by analyzing decadal trends in >200 water bodies since the 1980s, we observed a frequent decoupling between carbonate alkalinity and Ca concentrations, which we attributed mainly to the influence of anthropogenic acid deposition. As acid deposition has been ameliorated, in many freshwaters carbonate alkalinity concentrations have increased or remained constant, while Ca concentrations have rapidly declined towards or even below pre-industrial conditions as a consequence of recovery from anthropogenic acidification. Thus, a paradoxical outcome of the successful remediation of acid deposition is a globally widespread freshwater Ca concentration decline towards critically low levels for many aquatic organisms.
In vivo imaging of D2 receptors and corticosteroids predict behavioural responses to captivity stress in a wild bird
Authors: Lattin Christine R. , Merullo Devin P. , Riters Lauren V. , Carson Richard E.
Published: July 2019

Individual physiological variation may underlie individual differences in behaviour in response to stressors. This study tested the hypothesis that individual variation in dopamine and corticosteroid physiology in wild house sparrows (Passer domesticus, n = 15) would significantly predict behaviour and weight loss in response to a long-term stressor, captivity. We found that individuals that coped better with captivity (fewer anxiety-related behaviours, more time spent feeding, higher body mass) had lower baseline and higher stress-induced corticosteroid titres at capture. Birds with higher striatal D2 receptor binding (examined using positron emission tomography (PET) with 11C-raclopride 24 h post-capture) spent more time feeding in captivity, but weighed less, than birds with lower D2 receptor binding. In the subset of individuals imaged a second time, D2 receptor binding decreased in captivity in moulting birds, and larger D2 decreases were associated with increased anxiety behaviours 2 and 4 weeks post-capture. This suggests changes in dopaminergic systems could be one physiological mechanism underlying negative behavioural effects of chronic stress. Non-invasive technologies like PET have the potential to transform our understanding of links between individual variation in physiology and behaviour and elucidate which neuroendocrine phenotypes predict stress resilience, a question with important implications for both humans and wildlife.
Detailed Evaluation of Possible Ganglion Cell Loss in the Retina of Zucker Diabetic Fatty (ZDF) Rats
Authors: Hajdú Rozina I. , Laurik Lenke K. , Szabó Klaudia , Dékány Bulcsú , Almási Zsuzsanna , Énzsöly Anna , Szabó Arnold , Radovits Tamás , Mátyás Csaba , Oláh Attila , Szél Ágoston , Somfai Gábor M. , Dávid Csaba , Lukáts Ákos
Published: July 2019

A thinning of the inner retina is one of the earliest potential markers of neuroretinal damage in diabetic subjects. The histological background is uncertain; retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss and changes in the structure or thickness of the inner plexiform layer (IPL) have been suspected. Studies conducted on animal models on RGC pathology gave contradictory results. Hereby we present RGC numbers, distribution patterns and IPL thickness from Zucker Diabetic Fatty (ZDF) rats. After labelling RGCs on retinal whole mounts, isodensity maps were constructed, RGC numbers and distribution patterns analysed using a custom-built algorithm, enabling point-by-point comparison. There was no change in staining characteristics of the antibodies and no significant difference in average RGC densities was found compared to controls. The distribution patterns were also comparable and no significant difference was found in IPL thickness and stratification or in the number of apoptotic cells in the ganglion cell layer (GCL). Our results provide a detailed evaluation of the inner retina and exclude major RGC loss in ZDF rats and suggest that other factors could serve as a potential explanation for inner retinal thinning in clinical studies. Our custom-built method could be adopted for the assessment of other animal or human retinas.
A newly developed cloning technique in sturgeons; an important step towards recovering endangered species
Authors: Fatira Effrosyni , Havelka Miloš , Labbé Catherine , Depincé Alexandra , Pšenička Martin , Saito Taiju
Published: July 2019

Several steps of sturgeon somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) have been recently established, but improvements are needed to make it a feasible tool to preserve the natural populations of this group of endangered species. The donor cell position inside the recipient egg seems to be crucial for its reprogramming; therefore by injecting multiple donor somatic cells instead of a single cell with a single manipulation, we increased the potential for embryo development. Using the Russian sturgeon Acipenser gueldenstaedtii as a multiple cell donor and sterlet Acipenser ruthenus as the non-enucleated egg recipient, we obtained higher proportion of eggs developing into embryos than previously reported with single-SCNT. Molecular data showed the production of a specimen (0.8%) contained only the donor genome with no contribution from the recipient, while two specimens (1.6%) showed both recipient and donor genome. These findings are the first report of donor DNA integration into a sturgeon embryo after interspecific cloning. In all, we provide evidence that cloning with the multiple donor somatic cells can be feasible in the future. Despite the fact that the sturgeon cloning faces limitations, to date it is the most promising technique for their preservation.
Dynamics and distribution of paxillin, vinculin, zyxin and VASP depend on focal adhesion location and orientation
Authors: Legerstee Karin , Geverts Bart , Slotman Johan A. , Houtsmuller Adriaan B.
Published: July 2019

Focal adhesions (FAs) are multiprotein structures that link the intracellular cytoskeleton to the extracellular matrix. They mediate cell adhesion and migration, crucial to many (patho-) physiological processes. We examined in two cell types from different species the binding dynamics of functionally related FA protein pairs: paxillin and vinculin versus zyxin and VASP. In photobleaching experiments ~40% of paxillin and vinculin remained stably associated with a FA for over half an hour. Zyxin and VASP predominantly displayed more transient interactions. We show protein binding dynamics are influenced by FA location and orientation. In FAs located close to the edge of the adherent membrane paxillin, zyxin and VASP were more dynamic and had larger bound fractions. Zyxin and VASP were also more dynamic and had larger bound fractions at FAs perpendicular compared to parallel to this edge. Finally, we developed a photoconversion assay to specifically visualise stably bound proteins within subcellular structures and organelles. This revealed that while paxillin and vinculin are distributed evenly throughout FAs, their stably bound fractions form small clusters within the FA-complex. These clusters are more concentrated for paxillin than for vinculin and are mostly found at the proximal half of the FA where actin also enters.
Viral Diversity of Tick Species Parasitizing Cattle and Dogs in Trinidad and Tobago
Authors: Sameroff Stephen , Tokarz Rafal , Charles Roxanne Albertha , Jain Komal , Oleynik Alexandra , Che Xiaoyu , Georges Karla , Carrington Christine V. , Lipkin W. Ian , Oura Chris
Published: July 2019

Ticks are vectors of a wide variety of pathogens that are implicated in mild to severe disease in humans and other animals. Nonetheless, the full range of tick-borne pathogens is unknown. Viruses, in particular, have been neglected in discovery efforts targeting tick-borne agents. High throughput sequencing was used to characterize the virome of 638 ticks, including Rhipicephalus microplus (n = 320), Rhipicephalus sanguineus (n = 300), and Amblyomma ovale (n = 18) collected throughout Trinidad and Tobago in 2017 and 2018. Sequences representing nine viruses were identified, including five novel species within Tymovirales, Bunyavirales, Chuviridae, Rhabdoviridae, and Flaviviridae. Thereafter the frequency of detection of viral sequences in individual tick species was investigated.
Rapid determination of trace cadmium in drinking water using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy coupled with chelating resin enrichment
Authors: Tian Hongwu , Jiao Leizi , Dong Daming
Published: July 2019

The determination of heavy metals in drinking water is of great importance, but it is hard to realize rapid and in-situ measurement. Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy is an effective method for both solid and liquid sample analysis with advantages of fast and micro-destructive. However, the concentrations of heavy metals in drinking water is too low to be directly detected using LIBS. In this study, we enhanced the sensitivity of LIBS by coupling with chelating resin, which is usually used for water purification. The resin provided a rapid enrichment of the heavy metal, so the limits of detection of common LIBS system was much enhanced. Using Cadmium as the representative heavy metal, PLSR model for predicting Cd were built based on the spectral intensity (Cd 214.4 nm) with concentrations from 0 to 100 µg/L, and resulted in correlation coefficient of 0.94433 and RMSE of 7.1517 µg/L. The LoD was 3.6 µg/L. Furthermore, the volume, resin mass, adsorption time, and LIBS system parameters were optimized for practical applications. We also demonstrated that the resin can be recycled without loss in sensing ability. The combination of chelating resin with LIBS provides inexpensive, rapid, and sensitive detection method of trace heavy metal contaminants in drinking water.
Inflammatory Responses Reprogram TREGS Through Impairment of Neuropilin-1
Authors: Chen Tim Hung-Po , Arra Manoj , Mbalaviele Gabriel , Swarnkar Gaurav , Abu-Amer Yousef
Published: July 2019

Chronic inflammatory insults compromise immune cell responses and ultimately contribute to pathologic outcomes. Clinically, it has been suggested that bone debris and implant particles, such as polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), which are persistently released following implant surgery evoke heightened immune, inflammatory, and osteolytic responses that contribute to implant failure. However, the precise mechanism underlying this pathologic response remains vague. TREGS, the chief immune-suppressive cells, express the transcription factor Foxp3 and are potent inhibitors of osteoclasts. Using an intra-tibial injection model, we show that PMMA particles abrogate the osteoclast suppressive function of TREGS. Mechanistically, PMMA particles induce TREG instability evident by reduced expression of Foxp3. Importantly, intra-tibial injection of PMMA initiates an acute innate immune and inflammatory response, yet the negative impact on TREGS by PMMA remains persistent. We further show that PMMA enhance TH17 response at the expense of other T effector cells (TEFF), particularly TH1. At the molecular level, gene expression analysis showed that PMMA particles negatively regulate Nrp-1/Foxo3a axis to induce TREG instability, to dampen TREG activity and to promote phenotypic switch of TREGS to TH17 cells. Taken together, inflammatory cues and danger signals, such as bone and implant particles exacerbate inflammatory osteolysis in part through reprogramming TREGS.
Rationally designed naphthyl substituted amine functionalized ionic liquid platform for covalent immobilization and direct electrochemistry of hemoglobin
Authors: Theyagarajan K. , Saravanakumar Duraisamy , Senthilkumar Sellappan , Thenmozhi Kathavarayan
Published: July 2019

Herein, we have designed and demonstrated a facile and effective platform for the covalent anchoring of a tetrameric hemoprotein, hemoglobin (Hb). The platform comprises of naphthyl substituted amine functionalized gel type hydrophobic ionic liquid (NpNH2-IL) through which the heme protein was covalently attached over a glassy carbon electrode (Hb-NpNH2-IL/GCE). UV-vis and FT-IR spectral results confirmed that the Hb on NpNH2-IL retains its native structure, even after being covalently immobilized on NpNH2-IL platform. The direct electron transfer of redox protein could be realized at Hb-NpNH2-IL/GCE modified electrode and a well resolved redox peak with a formal potential of −0.30 V and peak separation of 65 mV was observed. This is due to the covalent attachment of highly conducting NpNH2-IL to the Hb, which facilitates rapid shuttling of electrons between the redox site of protein and the electrode. Further, the fabricated biosensor favoured the electrochemical reduction of bromate in neutral pH with linearity ranging from 12 to 228 µM and 0.228 to 4.42 mM with a detection limit and sensitivities of 3 µM, 430.7 µA mM−1 cm−2 and 148.4 µA mM−1 cm−2 respectively. Notably, the fabricated biosensor showed good operational stability under static and dynamic conditions with high selectivity and reproducibility.
A mouse model of renal fibrosis to overcome the technical variability in ischaemia/reperfusion injury among operators
Authors: Guan Yu , Nakano Daisuke , Zhang Yifan , Li Lei , Tian Ye , Nishiyama Akira
Published: July 2019

The ischaemia-reperfusion (I/R) model is a widely used model of acute kidney injury (AKI) and renal fibrosis. However, the ischaemia duration that is long enough to cause broad fibrosis shows that a high mortality rate and a short ischaemia duration does not cause fibrosis, resulting in a large variation in fibrosis progression in this experimental model. Inter-operator variation occurs for I/R injury severity because the I/R procedure is complex, which results in poor reproducibility of subsequent fibrosis in the model. In the present study, we developed a renal fibrosis model in which the fibrosis progression for 8 weeks is predictable within 8 days. Three operators independently performed I/R followed by uninephrectomy at day 7 in mice. The aim was to create a model that would show a blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level >100 mg/dL at day 8 after I/R (day 1 after uninephrectomy). Although the ischaemia duration to satisfy this BUN criterion differed among operators, the mice developed anaemia, polyuria, and fibrosis in a similar manner under the same BUN criterion with a low mortality rate. Interstitial fibrosis had developed at week 8, which was strongly correlated with the BUN at day 8. This protocol allows operators to adjust the ischaemia duration based on the BUN criterion and to separate mice into the desired number of groups based on the BUN to study interventions against renal fibrosis.
Electromagnetic Fields and Micronuclei
Authors: Al-Serori H. , Kundi M. , Nersesyan A. , Ferk F. , Knasmüller S.
Published: July 2019

Epidemiological findings indicate that exposure to high frequency electromagnetic fields (HF-ELF), which are used for mobile telecommunications, and also to extremely low frequency magnetic fields (from usage of electric current) may cause cancer in humans. Evaluation of the literature about induction of micronuclei shows that the results of in vitro experiments are controversial and depend strongly on the type of indicator cells. However, the results of meta-analyses of studies with human buccal cells and lymphocytes indicate that both forms of radiation cause micronuclei formation, which is a biomarker of numerical and/or structural chromosomal aberrations. Since the methodological quality of many human studies on electromagnetic fields is poor, further high-quality investigations are warranted.
Heavy Metals – Lead, Mercury and Cadmium and Their Impact on DNA Damage Measured by the Micronucleus Assay
Authors: Nersesyan Armen , Kundi Michael , Mišík Miroslav , Wultsch Georg , Knasmueller Siegfried
Published: July 2019

Epidemiological findings indicate that mercury, lead and cadmium species cause cancer in humans. The results of occupational studies show that exposure to the former two metals causes formation of micronuclei in exposed humans and also in experiments on laboratory rodents, while the data obtained for cadmium are controversial. Only a few studies were published concerning cadmium and the exposure scenarios are inconsistent. These different metals cause DNA damage via various mechanisms, including inhibition of the DNA repair processes, therefore, they may also cause synergistic effects in individuals who are exposed to other genotoxic carcinogens.
The Effect of Dust, Asbestos and Other Fibers on DNA Damage Measured Using the Micronucleus Assay
Authors: Milić M. , Neri M. , Bonassi S.
Published: July 2019

The widespread occupational and environmental exposure to dust, asbestos and other fibres due to the extensive transformation of industry, has led to an increased incidence of airborne particle-related diseases, as well as a whole range of non-respiratory illnesses. Particle-related diseases are present in populations exposed both at low and high levels, and they may occur even after a single time exposure. Due to the extensive heterogeneity of different particles, the mechanisms of the toxicity of airborne particles are still not sufficiently understood, and the optimal biomarkers of exposure and effect are still to be identified. The cytokinesis-block micronucleus assay in lymphocytes (L-CBMN) has been demonstrated to be among the most reliable biomarkers in measuring the genotoxic effects of airborne particle exposure. This chapter will provide an overview of the scientific literature on this topic while discussing the mechanism of action for dust and fibers. The advantages and disadvantages of the L-CBMN when applied to the study of the early effects of airborne particles on human health will be commented upon. Special emphasis will be given to studies on the genotoxic effects of airborne particles exposure realized using the L-CBMN cytome assay, an approach that integrates micronuclei (MN) with other assay endpoints such as nucleoplasmic bridges and nuclear buds. The evidence from the L-CBMN cytome assay will be compared with results from the MN cytome assay in nasal and buccal exfoliated cells.
Micronucleus Assay for Assessing Chromosomal Damage in Medical Workers Exposed to Anaesthetic Gases
Authors: Vodicka Pavel , Musak Ludovit , Fiorito Giovanni , Vymetalkova Veronika , Vodickova Ludmila , Naccarati Alessio
Published: July 2019

Anaesthesiologists as essential members of medical surgical operation teams are occupationally exposed to substantial concentrations of volatile anaesthetics. Additionally, the other members of the surgical operation teams (such as surgeons and nurses) and the patient may also be exposed. The mutagenic and carcinogenic effects of such exposures have been suggested in literature and they pose a potential genotoxic burden and health problems for individuals in various branches of medicine as well as for patients. The lymphocyte cytokinesis–block micronucleus (CBMN) assay represents a marker of biological effects and has been applied in in vivo biomonitoring studies of humans exposed either environmentally or occupationally to genotoxic chemicals. The main aim of the present report is to systematically review the published studies investigating the use of the lymphocyte CBMN assay to determine DNA damage in subjects exposed to anaesthetic gases. We also compared the performance of the CBMN assay with other DNA damage assays employed. The results on the genotoxicity of anaesthetic gases in humans were also compared with those obtained in in vitro and animal experiments. Despite the evident genotoxic effects of anaesthetic gases, the understanding of the mechanisms by which these events lead to chromosomal instability and eventually malignant transformation is incomplete and requires more research.
A two-dimensional mathematical model for analyzing the effects of capture probe properties on the performance of lateral flow assays
Authors: Liu Zhi , He Xiaocong , Li Ang , Qu Zhiguo , Xu Feng
Published: July 2019

Lateral flow assays (LFAs) are promising candidates in biomedical diagnosis fields due to their rapid, low-cost, and portable features.
A facile deoxyuridine/biotin-modified molecular beacon for simultaneous detection of proteins and nucleic acids via a label-free and background-eliminated fluorescence assay
Authors: Yin Fei , Liu Liqi , Sun Xia , Hou Laiyong , Lu Yu , Xue Qingwang , Lin Tong , Li Xia , Li Chen-zhong
Published: July 2019

Simultaneous detection of different types of cancer biomarkers (nucleic acids and proteins) could facilitate early diagnosis of cancer and clinical treatment.
Evolving polymersomes autonomously generated in and regulated by a semibatch pH oscillator
Authors: Guo Jinshan , Poros-Tarcali Eszter , Perez-Mercader Juan
Published: July 2019

pH-O-PISA: a semibatch pH oscillator drives polymerization by generating radicals periodically while simultaneously regulating the evolution of the self-assembled polymersomes.
A robust electrocatalytic activity toward the hydrogen evolution reaction from W/W2C heterostructured nanoparticles coated with a N,P dual-doped carbon layer
Authors: Zhang Quan , Luo Fang , Hu Hao , Xu Ruizhi , Qu Konggang , Yang Zehui , Xu Jingxiang , Cai Weiwei
Published: July 2019

W/W2C heterostructured nanoparticles encapsulated by N,P dual-doped carbon require low overpotentials of 55 mV and 82 mV vs. RHE to achieve cathodic current density of 10 mA cm−2 in acidic and alkaline electrolytes, respectively.
Nanoscale thermal mapping of few-layer organic crystals
Authors: Zhang Ying , Zhang Cong , Wei Dacheng , Bai Xue , Xu Xiangfan
Published: July 2019

Combining a scanning thermal microscope with a finite element simulation, the conductivity of an organic thin-film can be quantitatively detected.
The role of S-bond in tenoxicam keto–enolic tautomerization
Authors: Arkhipov Sergey G. , Sherin Peter S. , Kiryutin Alexey S. , Lazarenko Vladimir A. , Tantardini Christian
Published: July 2019

A non-covalent interaction between the sulphur atom of thiophenyl moiety and oxygen of the carbonyl group (S-bond) plays a crucial role in keto–enol tautomerization of tenoxicam leading to the crystallization of latter only in zwitterionic (ZWC) and not in β-keto–enolic (BKE) form.
Fe containing MoO3 nanowires grown along the [110] direction and their fast selective adsorption of quasi-phenothiazine dyes
Authors: Cao Ying , Wang Huixiang , Ren Xiaobo , Li Fan , Wang Jing , Ding Ruimin , Wang Liancheng , Wu Jianbo , Liu Zhong , Lv Baoliang
Published: July 2019

Herein, MoO3 nanowires (Fe–MoO3 NWs) along the [110] direction were successfully synthesized in the presence of Fe3+ cations.
Molecular diffusion and nano-mechanical properties of multi-phase supported lipid bilayers
Authors: Maekawa Tatsuhiro , Chin Hokyun , Nyu Takashi , Sut Tun Naw , Ferhan Abdul Rahim , Hayashi Tomohiro , Cho Nam-Joon
Published: July 2019

Understanding the properties of cell membranes is important in the fields of fundamental and applied biology.
Cost-effective density functional theory (DFT) calculations of equilibrium isotopic fractionation in large organic molecules
Authors: Iron Mark A. , Gropp Jonathan
Published: July 2019

The application of stable isotopes to large molecules is hindered by experimental and computational costs. Here, we describe a cost-effective computational framework for predicting equilibrium isotope effects and the associated uncertainties.
Copper chaperone ATOX1 is required for MAPK signaling and growth in BRAF mutation-positive melanoma
Authors: Kim Ye-Jin , Bond Gavin J , Tsang Tiffany , Posimo Jessica M , Busino Luca , Brady Donita C
Published: July 2019

Copper (Cu) is a tightly regulated micronutrient that functions as a structural or catalytic cofactor for specific proteins essential for a diverse array of biological processes. While the study of the extremely rare genetic diseases, Menkes and Wilson, has highlighted the requirement for proper Cu acquisition and elimination in biological systems for cellular growth and proliferation, the importance of dedicated Cu transport systems, like the Cu chaperones ATOX1 and CCS, in the pathophysiology of cancer is not well defined. We found that ATOX1 was significantly overexpressed in human blood, breast, and skin cancer samples, while CCS was significantly altered in human brain, liver, ovarian, and prostate cancer when compared to normal tissue. Further analysis of genetic expression data in Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia (CCLE) revealed that ATOX1 is highly expressed in melanoma cell lines over other cancer cell lines. We previously found that Cu is required for BRAFV600E-driven MAPK signaling and melanomagenesis. Here we show that genetic loss of ATOX1 decreased BRAFV600E-dependent growth and signaling in human melanoma cell lines. Pharmacological inhibition of ATOX1 with a small molecule, DCAC50, decreased the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and reduced the growth of BRAF mutation-positive melanoma cell lines in a dose-dependent manner. Taken together, these results suggest that targeting the Cu chaperone ATOX1 as a novel therapeutic angle in BRAFV600E-driven melanomas.
The group 9 cyclopentadienylmetal cis-ethylenedithiolates as metallodithiolene ligands in metal carbonyl chemistry: analogies to benzene metal carbonyl complexes
Authors: Radu Luana-Flavia , Attia Amr A. A. , Silaghi-Dumitrescu Radu , Lupan Alexandru , King R. Bruce
Published: July 2019

The species CpMS2C2H2 (M = Co, Rh, Ir) are aromatic systems that can function as pentahapto six-electron metallodithiolene ligands through all five atoms of their MS2C2 rings as in the lowest energy heterobimetallic complexes CpMS2C2H2·Cr(CO)n (n = 3, 2) and CpMS2C2H2·Fe(CO)2.
Structural and electrochemical behavior of a NiMnO3/Mn2O3 nanocomposite as an anode for high rate and long cycle lithium ion batteries
Authors: Chandel Sakshee , Lee Seulgi , Kim Sungjin , Singh Satendra Pal , Gim Jihyeon , Kim Jaekook , Rai Alok Kumar
Published: July 2019

In this work, first time a pre-designed NiMnO3/Mn2O3 nanocomposite is synthesized via a facile urea-assisted auto-combustion synthesis with the phase fraction ratio of ∼89% and ∼11%, respectively as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries.
Nanomechanical mapping of single collagen fibrils under tension
Authors: Peacock Chris J. , Kreplak Laurent
Published: July 2019

Atomic force microscopy based nanomechanical mapping reveals that tension alters the nanoscale molecular density modulation along collagen fibrils.
H2-Induced coalescence of Pt nanoparticles for the preparation of ultrathin Pt nanowires with high-density planar defects
Authors: Liu Yaming , Wang Chaoqi , Wang Weicong , Guo Ruiyun , Bi Wei , Guo Yanjun , Jin Mingshang
Published: July 2019

Ultrathin Pt nanowires with high-density planar defects can be prepared via H2-induced coalescence of Pt nanoparticles, showing much enhanced electrocatalytic activities.
The role of cobalt doping in tuning the band gap, surface morphology and third-order optical nonlinearities of ZnO nanostructures for NLO device applications
Authors: Bairy Raghavendra , Patil Parutagouda shankaragouda , Maidur Shivaraj R. , H. Vijeth , M. S. Murari , Bhat K. Udaya
Published: July 2019

The work presented here reported the effect of doping cobalt (Co) in ZnO thin films.
Heat treatment to improve the wear resistance of PTFE/PMMA composites
Authors: Gu Dapeng , Zhang Longxiao , Chen Suwen , Song Kefeng , Pan Deng , Yang Bingchao , Liu Shouyao
Published: July 2019

Wear resistance of PMMA/PTFE composite improved by heat treatment (pressures temperatures, times).
Large slippage and depletion layer at the polyelectrolyte/solid interface
Authors: Barraud Chloé , Cross Benjamin , Picard Cyril , Restagno Fréderic , Léger Lilianne , Charlaix Elisabeth
Published: July 2019

The slippage of polymer solutions on solid surfaces is often attributed to a depletion layer whose origin, thickness, and interaction with the flow are poorly understood.
Immobilization of Co, Mn, Ni and Fe oxide co-catalysts on TiO2 for photocatalytic water splitting reactions
Authors: Schubert Jasmin S. , Popovic Janko , Haselmann Greta M. , Nandan Sreejith P. , Wang Jia , Giesriegl Ariane , Cherevan Alexey S. , Eder Dominik
Published: July 2019

Here we report a systematic study of Co, Mn, Ni and Fe oxides as co-catalysts for HER and OER that were prepared by wet impregnation of the corresponding metal acetylacetonate salts onto a model TiO2 substrate.
Thermally driven phase transition of manganese oxide on carbon cloth for enhancing the performance of flexible all-solid-state zinc–air batteries
Authors: Chen Song , Shu Xinxin , Wang Huaisheng , Zhang Jintao
Published: July 2019

The phase transition of manganese oxides on carbon fibers via the thermal treatment is able to enhance the electrocatalytic activities for fabricating high-performance flexible all-solid-state zinc-air battery.
Epigenetic regulation of histone H3 in the process of hepatocellular tumorigenesis
Authors: Li Dan , Zeng Zhenguo
Published: July 2019

Better understanding of epigenetic regulation of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) will help us to cure this most common malignant liver cancer worldwide. The underlying mechanisms of HCC tumorigenesis are genomic aberrations regulated by genetic and epigenetic modifications. Histone H3 lysine modifications regulate histone structure and modulate transcriptional factor binding with target gene promoters. Targetting genes include VASH2, fatty acids synthase, RIZ1, FBP1, MPP1/3, YAP, which affect tumorigenesis, metabolisms, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Signal pathway studies demonstrate that the HGF-MET-MLL axis, phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN)-PI3K-Akt axis; WNT-β-catenin signal pathway is involved in histone H3 modification. A variety of factors such as virus infection, reactive oxygen species, food-borne toxins, irradiation, or non-coding RNA cause hepatocellular DNA damage or modification. Dysfunctional DNA repair mechanisms, including those at the epigenetic level are also major causes of HCC tumorigenesis. The development of therapies based on epigenetic regulatory mechanisms has great potential to advance the care of HCC patients in the future.
Tinea capitis profunda mit Pediculosis capitis − eine ungewöhnliche Kombination
Authors: Troyanova-Slavkova S. , Nenoff P. , Uhrlaß S. , Ziegler H. , Kowalzick L.
Published: July 2019

Hauterkrankungen im Kindesalter stellen immer wieder eine Herausforderung dar. Pilzinfektionen überwiegen gegenüber bakteriellen Hautinfektionen und nehmen an Häufigkeit zu 1. Ektoparasitosen gehören zu den häufigen Dermatosen im Kindesalter, und man beobachtet ebenfalls eine zunehmende Inzidenz 1. Die Pediculosis capitis gilt als die häufigste Epizoonose im Kindesalter. Die Kopfläuse (Pediculi capitis) sind flügellose, blutsaugende Insekten. Sie verursachen stark juckende Papeln, mit darauffolgend entstandenen Kratzartefakten und Ekzematisation. Als mögliche Komplikation eines Läusebefalls kann eine bakterielle Superinfektion auftreten 1. Das Erregerspektrum der Tinea capitis im Kindesalter ist groß und umfasst viele zoophile und anthropophile Dermatophyten. Insbesondere der zoophile Erreger Trichophyton benhamiae (früher Trichophyton-Spezies von Arthroderma benhamiae) wird in letzter Zeit in Deutschland häufiger beobachtet 10. Infektionsquelle sind u. a. Meerschweinchen sowie andere kleine Nagetiere wie Hamster und Ratten 6. Eine Ektoparasitose mit gleichzeitig bestehender Pilzinfektion der Kopfhaut stellt in Europa eine Rarität dar und bedarf höchster Aufmerksamkeit. Wir berichten hier über einen 12-jährigen Knaben mit simultanem Kopflausbefall mit einer Tinea capitis profunda, verursacht durch den zoophilen Dermatophyten Trichophyton benhamiae.
A Biomechanical Comparison of Three Miniature Locking Plate Systems in a Rabbit Radial and Ulnar Fracture Model
Authors: Takizawa Harue , Honnami Muneki , Sakai Takamasa , Sasaki Akari , Sakamoto Ayumi , Mochizuki Manabu
Published: July 2019

Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the biomechanical properties of three different miniature locking plate systems used to fixate radial and ulnar fractures in toy breed dogs. Implant size, shape, material and locking systems differ, and their influence on the fracture healing process is unknown. In the present study, we aimed to investigate this matter in vivo using rabbit radial and ulnar fracture models.

Study Design Eighteen rabbits were randomly divided into three groups, and the left radius and ulna were osteotomized to create fracture models. The osteotomies were then fixated using either the TITAN LOCK 1.5, Fixin micro or LCP 1.5 system. Radiographs were obtained 2, 3 and 4 weeks after surgery. Four weeks after surgery, the radiuses were collected and used for biomechanical testing or histological examinations.

Results During the 4 weeks of observation, no adverse effects due to the implants occurred. The radiographic scores in each group did not differ significantly at any time point. The maximum load in the LCP group was significantly higher than that in the TITAN and Fixin groups. There was no significant difference in bending stiffness or work to failure among the groups. Initial fracture healing via woven bone was evident at histological evaluation.

Conclusions All three miniature locking plate systems provided adequate fracture stabilization 4 weeks after surgery, despite their differences, in rabbit models.
Exposure Response Supports Therapeutic Drug Monitoring for Dabigatran Etexilate in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Simpson Bryan H. , Reith David M. , Medlicott Natalie J. , Smith Alesha J.
Published: July 2019

Background Dabigatran etexilate has become widely used for the prevention of stroke in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF). Currently, there is limited information in real-world patients relating to dabigatran etexilate exposure and response.

Methods This retrospective cohort study used administrative health data for NVAF patients dispensed dabigatran etexilate between July 1, 2011 and December 31, 2015. Outcomes of cerebrovascular accident (CVA), systemic embolism, and hemorrhage were extracted. Simulated pharmacokinetic parameters were obtained using a published population pharmacokinetic model of dabigatran etexilate. Area under the curve calculated for a 24-hour period at steady state (AUCss), the exposure parameter, was derived using these simulations and the dosing data and the exposure–response relationship were investigated. The risk of adverse outcomes at AUCss quartiles was compared using Poisson regression and expressed using incidence rate ratios (95% confidence interval) adjusted for known potential confounders.

Results In total, 2,660 NVAF patients had been dispensed dabigatran etexilate. For these patients there was a decreased risk of hemorrhage (0.51, 0.32–0.79) when dabigatran AUCss was in the second quartile range of 1.70 to 1.96 mg h/L and thromboembolism/CVA (0.34, 0.16–0.76) when in the third quartile range of 1.97 to 2.26 mg h/L. An increased risk of hemorrhage (1.68, 1.18–2.38) was observed when AUCss was in the fourth quartile range of 2.27 to 12.76 mg h/L.

Conclusion An exposure–response relationship for dabigatran etexilate was described, where the most effective response was observed when AUCss was in the range of 1.70 to 2.26 mg h/L. Hence, it is feasible to develop guidance for optimal dosing to improve outcomes for patients with NVAF.
A Rare Cause of May-Thurner Syndrome Postarterial Intervention
Authors: Chan Hiok Yang , Choke Edward Tieng Chek , Tang Tjun Yip , Sivanathan Chandramohan , Jasmine Chua Ming Er , Kumar Pradesh
Published: July 2019

May-Thurner syndrome (MTS) is rare condition thought to occur due to an anatomical variation. In MTS, there is left iliac vein compression by the right iliac artery and lumbar spine resulting in left lower limb deep venous thrombosis. The authors report a rare cause of MTS postarterial intervention. They describe the unusual case of an Asian man who presented with acute left lower limb deep venous thrombosis 5 days following left common iliac artery angioplasty and stent insertion. Computed tomographic (CT) venogram demonstrated the left iliac vein compression by the left iliac artery stent. Successful recanalization of the thrombosed iliac vein was achieved with a combination of pulse spray thrombolysis and rheolytic mechanical thrombectomy, followed by angioplasty and stent placement in the iliac vein. There was rapid and complete resolution of symptoms. This report illustrates the use of complementary imaging modalities and a multidisciplinary team approach to achieve a successful technical and clinical outcome following an unusual case of MTS postarterial intervention and the subsequent successful endovascular management.
Topological and electrical properties of capped and annealed (0001) hydride vapor phase epitaxy GaN films on sapphire
Authors: Derenge Michael A. , Jones Kenneth A.
Published: July 2019

In light of the necessity to anneal GaN to activate implanted dopants, the effects of the annealing temperature and time, the quality of the hydride vapor phase epitaxy grown GaN film, the quality of the annealing cap, and the effects of the stresses generated by the difference in the coefficients of thermal expansion of the film and the substrate are examined topographically using atomic force microscopy, and electrical measurements are made on Schottky diodes fabricated on the annealed samples. The results show that thermal decomposition begins at threading edge dislocations that form polygonized small angle grain boundaries during the annealing process; donor defects, probably nitrogen vacancies, are formed near the surface; and the donors are created more quickly when the annealing temperature is higher, the annealing time is longer, and the thermal stresses on the annealing cap are greater. The results suggest that the maximum annealing temperature is ∼1300 °C, and at that annealing temperature, the annealing time should not exceed 4 min.
Pressure evolution of transverse collective excitations in liquid Al along the melting line
Authors: Jakse Noël , Bryk Taras
Published: July 2019

Evolution of structure and dynamics of liquid Al with pressure along the melting line up to 300 GPa has been studied by means of ab initio molecular dynamics simulations. An analysis of structural properties shows that liquid Al undergoes uniform compression with pressure associated with a competition of the existing icosahedral local order with bcc ordering above 200 GPa. Dispersion of collective excitations indicates the presence of two branches of transverse nonpropagative modes in the second pseudo-Brillouin zone. Under pressure, the second high-frequency branch manifests as the second peak position in transverse current correlation functions, while, for ambient pressure, it corresponds to a smeared-out high-frequency shoulder. We report a correspondence of the peak locations in vibrational density of states with these two transverse collective excitations as well as their linear evolution with density.
Defects, conductivity and photoconductivity in Ar+ bombarded KTaO3
Authors: Tomar Ruchi , Wadehra Neha , Kumar Shelender , Venkatesan Ananth , Sarma D. D. , Maryenko Denis , Chakraverty S.
Published: July 2019

Oxygen vacancies play a crucial role in the conductivity of oxides. Here, we report the photoresponse of the electron doped surface of Ar+ bombarded oxygen vacant (001) KTaO3 (KTO) single crystal. The bombardment time defines the amount of oxygen vacancies and hence the electron doping level. The time evolution of photoresponse to daylight illumination remains independent of the carrier density and follows the biexponential function. By contrast, the amplitude of the photoresponse increases with the decreasing charge carrier density. The samples show distinct responses in terms of amplitude as well as response time to the illumination with laser light of wavelengths 633, 532, and 405 nm. The defect states distribution within the bandgap is calculated with the photoconductivity relaxation, which involves deep sensitizing hole traps. The combined results of electrical conductivity, photoconductivity, atomic force microscopy, and Kelvin probe force microscopy suggest that the conductivity produced on the KTO surface is not continuous throughout the surface. Rather, Ar+ bombardment creates oxygen deficiency patches that are oriented along some preferential crystal orientations and interconnected with each other, thus producing percolating conducting channels on the surface of the sample. Under light illumination, photocarriers are generated in these conducting channels.
Numerical simulation of the bubble dynamics in a bifurcated micro-channel using the lattice Boltzmann method
Authors: Lou Qin , Li Tao , Yang Mo
Published: July 2019

The dynamics behavior of a bubble passing through a bifurcated microchannel is studied numerically by using the lattice Boltzmann model. The effects of channel wettability, the viscosity ratio, the capillary number (Ca), the initial bubble size, and the flow flux ratio on the interface dynamic behavior, breakup mechanism, and residual mass of the bubble through the bifurcated microchannel are studied systematically. The simulation result indicates that these factors have significant influence on the bubble motion behavior. The bubble splits into two sub-bubbles and flow out of the channel completely when the channel surface is hydrophilic. However, some mass residuals of the bubble are observed when the channel surface is hydrophobic and the residual mass increases with the contact angle. On the other hand, as the viscous ratio of gas-liquid increases, the bubble is more likely to break up and to flow out of the channel. In addition, for the case of low capillary number and small bubble size, the bubble cannot break up, so it finally strands in the main channel. Besides, as capillary number increases, the flow flux ratio required for the bubble to flow out of subchannels increases. Eventually, we establish the relation for the critical flow flux ratio Qc as Qc=0.604e13.44Ca and Qc=1.985e5.53Ca to describe whether the bubble breaks up or not for different bubble radii.
The origin of the conductivity maximum in molten salts. III. Zinc halides
Authors: Aravindakshan Nikhil P. , Johnson Keith E. , East Allan L. L.
Published: July 2019

In a continuing effort to master the reasons for conductivity maxima vs temperature in semicovalent molten halides, the structure and some transport properties of molten zinc halide are examined with ab initio molecular dynamics. Molten zinc halides are a special class of molten salts, being extremely viscous near their melting point (with a glassy state below it) and low electrical conductivity, and since they are also known (ZnI2) or predicted (ZnBr2 and ZnCl2) to exhibit conductivity maxima, they would be useful additional cases to probe, in case the reasons for their maxima are unique. Strong attractive forces in ZnX2 result in tight tetrahedral coordination, and the known mixture of edge-sharing vs corner-sharing ZnX4 tetrahedra is observed. In the series zinc chloride → bromide → iodide, (i) the ratio of edge-sharing vs corner-sharing tetrahedra increases, (ii) the diffusion coefficient of Zn2+ increases, and (iii) the diffusion coefficient of the anion stays roughly constant. A discussion of conductivity, with focus on the Walden product W = ηΛe, is presented. With predicted Haven ratios of 1–15 when heated toward their conductivity maxima, the physical chemistry behind molten zinc halide conductivity does not appear to be fundamentally different from other semicovalent molten halides.
Fingerprinting silicon chips just got easier
Authors: Kish Stacy W.
Published: July 2019

Researchers develop a method to fingerprint silicon chips that could be used to one day enhance device security.
[FeII(L•)2][TCNQF4•−]2: A Redox-Active Double Radical Salt
Authors: Gass Ian A. , Lu Jinzhen , Ojha Ruchika , Asadi Mousa , Lupton David W. , Geoghegan Blaise L. , Moubaraki Boujemaa , Martin Lisandra L. , Bond Alan M. , Murray Keith S.
Published: July 2019

The reaction of [FeII(L•)2][BF4]2 with LiTCNQF4 results in the formation of [FeII(L•)2][TCNQF4•−]2·2CH3CN (1) (L• is the neutral aminoxyl radical ligand 4,4-dimethyl-2,2-di(2-pyridyl)oxazolidine-N-oxide; TCNQF4 is 2,3,5,6-tetrafluoro-7,7,8,8-tetracyanoquinodimethane). Single-crystal X-ray diffraction; Raman, Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) and ultraviolet–visible spectroscopies; and electrochemical studies are all consistent with the presence of a low-spin FeII ion, the neutral radical form (L•) of the ligand, and the radical anion TCNQF4•−. 1 is largely diamagnetic and the electrochemistry shows five well-resolved, diffusion-controlled, reversible one-electron processes.
Origin of arsenolipids in sediments from Great Salt Lake
Authors: Glabonjat Ronald A. , Raber Georg , Jensen Kenneth B. , Schubotz Florence , Boyd Eric S. , Francesconi Kevin A.
Published: July 2019

Environmental contextArsenic is a globally distributed element, occurring in various chemical forms with toxicities ranging from harmless to highly toxic. We examined sediment samples from Great Salt Lake, an extreme salt environment, and found a variety of organoarsenic species not previously recorded in nature. These new compounds are valuable pieces in the puzzle of how organisms detoxify arsenic, and in our understanding of the global arsenic cycle. AbstractArsenic-containing lipids are natural products found predominantly in marine organisms. Here, we report the detection of known and new arsenolipids in sediment samples from Great Salt Lake, a hypersaline lake in Utah, USA, using high-performance liquid chromatography in combination with both elemental and molecular mass spectrometry. Sediments from four investigated sites contained appreciable quantities of arsenolipids (22–312ng As g−1 sediment) comprising several arsenic-containing hydrocarbons and 20 new compounds shown to be analogues of phytyl 2-O-methyl dimethylarsinoyl riboside. We discuss potential sources of the detected arsenolipids and find a phytoplanktonic origin most plausible in these algal detritus-rich salt lake sediments.