bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electroluminescence from multi-particle exciton complexes in transition metal dichalcogenide semiconductors
Authors: Paur Matthias , Molina-Mendoza Aday J. , Bratschitsch Rudolf , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Mueller Thomas
Published: April 2019

Light emission from higher-order correlated excitonic states has been recently reported in hBN-encapsulated monolayer WSe2 and WS2 upon optical excitation. These exciton complexes are found to be bound states of excitons residing in opposite valleys in momentum space, a promising feature that could be employed in valleytronics or other novel optoelectronic devices. However, electrically-driven light emission from such exciton species is still lacking. Here we report electroluminescence from bright and dark excitons, negatively charged trions and neutral and negatively charged biexcitons, generated by a pulsed gate voltage, in hexagonal boron nitride encapsulated monolayer WSe2 and WS2 with graphene as electrode. By tailoring the pulse parameters we are able to tune the emission intensity of the different exciton species in both materials. We find the electroluminescence from charged biexcitons and dark excitons to be as narrow as 2.8 meV.
Definitions and guidelines for research on antibiotic persistence
Authors: Balaban Nathalie Q. , Helaine Sophie , Lewis Kim , Ackermann Martin , Aldridge Bree , Andersson Dan I. , Brynildsen Mark P. , Bumann Dirk , Camilli Andrew , Collins James J. , Dehio Christoph , Fortune Sarah , Ghigo Jean-Marc , Hardt Wolf-Dietrich , Harms Alexander , Heinemann Matthias , Hung Deborah T. , Jenal Urs , Levin Bruce R. , Michiels Jan , Storz Gisela , Tan Man-Wah , Tenson Tanel , Van Melderen Laurence , Zinkernagel Annelies
Published: April 2019

Increasing concerns about the rising rates of antibiotic therapy failure and advances in single-cell analyses have inspired a surge of research into antibiotic persistence. Bacterial persister cells represent a subpopulation of cells that can survive intensive antibiotic treatment without being resistant. Several approaches have emerged to define and measure persistence, and it is now time to agree on the basic definition of persistence and its relation to the other mechanisms by which bacteria survive exposure to bactericidal antibiotic treatments, such as antibiotic resistance, heteroresistance or tolerance. In this Consensus Statement, we provide definitions of persistence phenomena, distinguish between triggered and spontaneous persistence and provide a guide to measuring persistence. Antibiotic persistence is not only an interesting example of non-genetic single-cell heterogeneity, it may also have a role in the failure of antibiotic treatments. Therefore, it is our hope that the guidelines outlined in this article will pave the way for better characterization of antibiotic persistence and for understanding its relevance to clinical outcomes.
Metabolic and skeletal homeostasis are maintained in full locus GPRC6A knockout mice
Authors: Jørgensen Christinna V. , Gasparini Sylvia J. , Tu Jinwen , Zhou Hong , Seibel Markus J. , Bräuner-Osborne Hans
Published: April 2019

The G protein-coupled receptor class C, group 6, subtype A (GPRC6A) is suggested to have a physiological function in glucose and bone metabolism, although the precise role lacks consensus due to varying findings in different knockout (KO) mouse models and inconsistent findings on the role of osteocalcin, a proposed GPRC6A agonist. We have further characterized a full locus GPRC6A KO model with respect to energy metabolism, including a long-term high-dose glucocorticoid metabolic challenge. Additionally, we analyzed the microarchitecture of tibiae from young, middle-aged and aged GPRC6A KO mice and wildtype (WT) littermates. Compared to WT, vehicle-treated KO mice presented with normal body composition, unaltered insulin sensitivity and basal serum insulin and glucose levels. Corticosterone (CS) treatment resulted in insulin resistance, abnormal fat accrual, loss of lean mass and suppression of serum osteocalcin levels in both genotypes. Interestingly, serum osteocalcin and skeletal osteocalcin mRNA levels were significantly lower in vehicle-treated GPRC6A KO mice compared to WT animals. However, WT and KO age groups did not differ in long bone mass and structure assessed by micro-computed tomography. We conclude that GPRC6A is not involved in glucose metabolism under normal physiological conditions, nor does it mediate glucocorticoid-induced dysmetabolism in mice. Moreover, GPRC6A does not appear to possess a direct, non-compensable role in long bone microarchitecture under standard conditions.
Facile synthesis of ternary graphene nanocomposites with doped metal oxide and conductive polymers as electrode materials for high performance supercapacitors
Authors: Ishaq Saira , Moussa Mahmoud , Kanwal Farah , Ehsan Muhammad , Saleem Muhammad , Van Truc Ngo , Losic Dusan
Published: April 2019

Supercapacitors (SCs) due to their high energy density, fast charge storage and energy transfer, long charge discharge curves and low costs are very attractive for designing new generation of energy storage devices. In this work we present a simple and scalable synthetic approach to engineer ternary composite as electrode material based on combination of graphene with doped metal oxides (iron oxide) and conductive polymer (polypyrrole) with aims to achieve supercapacitors with very high gravimetric and areal capacitances. In the first step a binary composite with graphene mixed with doped iron oxide (rGO/MeFe2O4) (Me = Mn, Ni) was synthesized using new single step process with NaOH acting as a coprecipitation and GO reducing agent. This rGO/MnFe2O4composite electrode showed gravimetric capacitance of 147 Fg−1and areal capacitance of 232 mFcm−2at scan rate of 5 mVs−1. In the final step a conductive polypyrrole was included to prepare a ternary composite graphene/metal doped iron oxide/polypyrrole (rGO/MnFe2O4/Ppy) electrode. Ternary composite electrode showed significantly improved gravimetric capacitance and areal capacitance of 232 Fg−1and 395 mFcm−2respectively indicating synergistic impact of Ppy additives. The method is promising to fabricate advanced electrode materials for high performing supercapacitors combining graphene, doped iron oxide and conductive polymers.
Bisacylphosphane oxides as photo-latent cytotoxic agents and potential photo-latent anticancer drugs
Authors: Beil Andreas , Steudel Friederike A. , Bräuchle Christoph , Grützmacher Hansjörg , Möckl Leonhard
Published: April 2019

Bisacylphosphane oxides (BAPOs) are established as photoinitiators for industrial applications. Light irradiation leads to their photolysis, producing radicals. Radical species induce oxidative stress in cells and may cause cell death. Hence, BAPOs may be suitable as photolatent cytotoxic agents, but such applications have not been investigated yet. Herein, we describe for the first time a potential use of BAPOs as drugs for photolatent therapy. We show that treatment of the breast cancer cell lines MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 and of breast epithelial cells MCF-10A with BAPOs and UV irradiation induces apoptosis. Cells just subjected to BAPOs or UV irradiation alone are not affected. The induction of apoptosis depend on the BAPO and the irradiation dose. We proved that radicals are the active species since cells are rescued by an antioxidant. Finally, an optimized BAPO-derivative was designed which enters the cells more efficiently and thus leads to stronger effects at lower doses.
Development of a Synthetic 3-ketosteroid Δ1-dehydrogenase for the Generation of a Novel Catabolic Pathway Enabling Cholesterol Degradation in Human Cells
Authors: D’Arcy Brandon M. , Swingle Mark R. , Schambeau Lindsay , Pannell Lewis , Prakash Aishwarya , Honkanen Richard E.
Published: April 2019

Cholesterol is an essential component of membranes, which is acquired by cells via receptor-mediated endocytosis of lipoproteins or via de novo synthesis. In specialized cells, anabolic enzymes metabolize cholesterol, generating steroid hormones or bile acids. However, surplus cholesterol cannot be catabolized due to the lack of enzymes capable of degrading the cholestane ring. The inability to degrade cholesterol becomes evident in the development and progression of cardiovascular disease, where the accumulation of cholesterol/cholesteryl-esters in macrophages can elicit a maladaptive immune response leading to the development and progression of atherosclerosis. The discovery of cholesterol catabolic pathways in Actinomycetes led us to the hypothesis that if enzymes enabling cholesterol catabolism could be genetically engineered and introduced into human cells, the atherosclerotic process may be prevented or reversed. Comparison of bacterial enzymes that degrade cholesterol to obtain carbon and generate energy with the action of human enzymes revealed that humans lack a 3-ketosteroid Δ1-dehydrogenase (Δ1-KstD), which catalyzes the C-1 and C-2 desaturation of ring A. Here we describe the construction, heterologous expression, and actions of a synthetic humanized Δ1-KstD expressed in Hep3B and U-937 cells, providing proof that one of three key enzymes required for cholesterol ring opening can be functionally expressed in human cells.
GmSYP24, a putative syntaxin gene, confers osmotic/drought, salt stress tolerances and ABA signal pathway
Authors: Chen Li-Miao , Fang Yi-Sheng , Zhang Chan-Juan , Hao Qing-Nan , Cao Dong , Yuan Song-Li , Chen Hai-Feng , Yang Zhong-Lu , Chen Shui-Lian , Shan Zhi-Hui , Liu Bao-Hong , Jing-Wang  , Zhan Yong , Zhang Xiao-Juan , Qiu De-Zhen , Li Wen-Bin , Zhou Xin-An
Published: April 2019

As major environment factors, drought or high salinity affect crop growth, development and yield. Transgenic approach is an effective way to improve abiotic stress tolerance of crops. In this study, we comparatively analyzed gene structures, genome location, and the evolution of syntaxin proteins containing late embryogenesis abundant (LEA2) domain. GmSYP24 was identified as a dehydration-responsive gene. Our study showed that the GmSYP24 protein was located on the cell membrane. The overexpression of GmSYP24 (GmSYP24ox) in soybean and heteroexpression of GmSYP24 (GmSYP24hx) in Arabidopsis exhibited insensitivity to osmotic/drought and high salinity. However, wild type soybean, Arabidopsis, and the mutant of GmSYP24 homologous gene of Arabidopsis were sensitive to the stresses. Under the abiotic stresses, transgenic soybean plants had greater water content and higher activities of POD, SOD compared with non-transgenic controls. And the leaf stomatal density and opening were reduced in transgenic Arabidopsis. The sensitivity to ABA was decreased during seed germination of GmSYP24ox and GmSYP24hx. GmSYP24hx induced up-regulation of ABA-responsive genes. GmSYP24ox alters the expression of some aquaporins under osmotic/drought, salt, or ABA treatment. These results demonstrated that GmSYP24 played an important role in osmotic/drought or salt tolerance in ABA signal pathway.
Co-application of ACC-deaminase producing PGPR and timber-waste biochar improves pigments formation, growth and yield of wheat under drought stress
Authors: Danish Subhan , Zafar-ul-Hye Muhammad
Published: April 2019

Besides other deleterious effects, drought elevates ethylene level too in plants. Increased ethylene concentration reduces root elongation and development that consequently retard plant growth and yield. There are certain PGPR which produce ACC-deaminase. The ACC-deaminase converts ACC (an immediate precursor of ethylene biosynthesis in methionine pathway in higher plants) into ammonia and α-ketobutyrate instead of ethylene. Regularization of ethylene level in plants mitigate the effects of drought. On the other hand, biochar has been reported to be rich in nutrients and exhibiting higher water holding capacity. So, a pot study was conducted with the hypothesis that the combined application of ACC-deaminase producing PGPR and biochar would minimize the drought effects on wheat growth. The ACC-deaminase producing PGPR were applied on wheat seeds in combination with two biochar doses. Three moisture levels were maintained throughout the trial. The data obtained revealed that B. amyloliquefaciens + 2BC improved the chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate, 100-grain weight, and grain N, P and K up to 114%, 123%, 118%, 73%, 59%, 58%, 18% and 23%, respectively, under drought conditions. It is concluded that co-application of PGPR and biochar is an effective technique to mitigate the drought effects.
One-piece polarizing interferometer for ultrafast spectroscopic polarimetry
Authors: Kim Daesuk , Dembele Vamara
Published: April 2019

This paper describes a new class of ultrafast dynamic spectro-polarimetry based on a specially designed one-piece polarizing interferometer. It provides spectral polarimetric parameters of an anisotropic object in milliseconds with high precision. The proposed ultrafast spectro-polarimetry has no moving parts and it is highly robust to external noises. The one-piece polarizing interferometric scheme enables the world fastest and simplest solution in spectroscopic polarimetry. The distinct simple concept on one-piece polarizing interferometer can extract spectroscopic polarimetric parameters Ψ(k)and Δ(k)precisely with a speed of over 200 Hz over the entire visible wavelength range with a spectral resolution of less than 1 nm. The proposed novel one-piece scheme will have a significant potential of a paradigm shift from lab to fab in polarization metrology.
Comprehensive biodiversity analysis via ultra-deep patterned flow cell technology: a case study of eDNA metabarcoding seawater
Authors: Singer G. A. C. , Fahner N. A. , Barnes J. G. , McCarthy A. , Hajibabaei M.
Published: April 2019

The characterization of biodiversity is a crucial element of ecological investigations as well as environmental assessment and monitoring activities. Increasingly, amplicon-based environmental DNA metabarcoding (alternatively, marker gene metagenomics) is used for such studies given its ability to provide biodiversity data from various groups of organisms simply from analysis of bulk environmental samples such as water, soil or sediments. The Illumina MiSeq is currently the most popular tool for carrying out this work, but we set out to determine whether typical studies were reading enough DNA to detect rare organisms (i.e., those that may be of greatest interest such as endangered or invasive species) present in the environment. We collected sea water samples along two transects in Conception Bay, Newfoundland and analyzed them on the MiSeq with a sequencing depth of 100,000 reads per sample (exceeding the 60,000 per sample that is typical of similar studies). We then analyzed these same samples on Illumina’s newest high-capacity platform, the NovaSeq, at a depth of 7 million reads per sample. Not surprisingly, the NovaSeq detected many more taxa than the MiSeq thanks to its much greater sequencing depth. However, contrary to our expectations this pattern was true even in depth-for-depth comparisons. In other words, the NovaSeq can detect more DNA sequence diversity within samples than the MiSeq, even at the exact same sequencing depth. Even when samples were reanalyzed on the MiSeq with a sequencing depth of 1 million reads each, the MiSeq’s ability to detect new sequences plateaued while the NovaSeq continued to detect new sequence variants. These results have important biological implications. The NovaSeq found 40% more metazoan families in this environment than the MiSeq, including some of interest such as marine mammals and bony fish so the real-world implications of these findings are significant. These results are most likely associated to the advances incorporated in the NovaSeq, especially a patterned flow cell, which prevents similar sequences that are neighbours on the flow cell (common in metabarcoding studies) from being erroneously merged into single spots by the sequencing instrument. This study sets the stage for incorporating eDNA metabarcoding in comprehensive analysis of oceanic samples in a wide range of ecological and environmental investigations.
Network topological model of reconstructive solid-state transformations
Authors: Blatov Vladislav A. , Golov Andrey A. , Yang Changhao , Zeng Qingfeng , Kabanov Artem A.
Published: April 2019

Reconstructive solid-state transformations are followed by significant changes in the system of chemical bonds, i.e. in the topology of the substance. Understanding these mechanisms at the atomic level is crucial for proper explanation and prediction of chemical reactions and phase transitions in solids and, ultimately, for the design of new materials. Modeling of solid-state transitions by geometrical, molecular dynamics or quantum-mechanical methods does not account for topological transformations. As a result, the chemical nature of the transformation processes are overlooked, which limits the predictive power of the models. We propose a universal model based on network representation of extended structures, which treats any reorganization in the solid state as a network transformation. We demonstrate this approach rationalizes the configuration space of the solid system and enables prediction of new phases that are closely related to already known phases. Some new phases and unclear transition pathways are discovered in example systems including elementary substances, ionic compounds and molecular crystals.
Flexible electrical aptasensor using dielectrophoretic assembly of graphene oxide and its subsequent reduction for cardiac biomarker detection
Authors: Sharma Abhinav , Jang Jaesung
Published: April 2019

Cardiac troponin T (cTnT) is considered a clinical standard for its high specificity and sensitivity when diagnosing acute myocardial infarction; however, most studies on the electrical sensors of cardiac troponin biomarkers have focused on cTnI rather than cTnT. This study presents label-free, low-cost, transparent, and flexible aptamer-based immunosensors for the electrical detection of cTnT using reduced graphene oxide (rGO) sheets. GO was first deposited by AC dielectrophoresis between two predefined source and drain electrodes on a 3-aminopropyltriethoxylsilane-modified polyethylene terephthalate substrate. The GO was then reduced using hydrazine vapour without damaging the substrate, resulting in uniform, controlled, and stable deposition of rGO sheets, and demonstrating more stability than those directly deposited by dielectrophoresis. Amine-modified single-strand DNA aptamers against cTnT were immobilized onto the rGO channels. The relative resistance change of this sensor owing to the attachment of cTnT was quantified as the cTnT concentration decreased from 10 ng/mL to 1 pg/mL in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) and 10-fold diluted human serum in PBS, with the limits of detection being 1.2 pg/mL and 1.7 pg/mL, respectively, which is sufficiently sensitive for clinical applications. High-yield and rapid fabrication of the present rGO sensors will have significant influences on scaled-up fabrication of graphene-based sensors.
Buffalo milk transcriptome: A comparative analysis of early, mid and late lactation
Authors: Arora Reena , Sharma Anju , Sharma Upasna , Girdhar Yashila , Kaur Mandeep , Kapoor Prerna , Ahlawat Sonika , Vijh Ramesh Kumar
Published: April 2019

The expression of genes and their regulation during lactation in buffaloes remains less understood. To understand the interplay of various genes and pathways, the milk transcriptome from three lactation stages of Murrah buffalo was analyzed by RNA sequencing. The filtered reads were mapped to the Bubalus bubalis as well as Bos taurus reference assemblies. The average mapping rate to water buffalo and Btau 4.6 reference sequence, was 75.5% and 75.7% respectively. Highly expressed genes (RPKM > 3000), throughout lactation included CSN2, CSN1S1, CSN3, LALBA, SPP1 and TPT1. A total of 12833 transcripts were common across all the stages, while 271, 205 and 418 were unique to early, mid and late lactation respectively. Majority of the genes throughout lactation were linked to biological functions like protein metabolism, transport and immune response. A discernible shift from metabolism in early stage to metabolism and immune response in mid stage, and an increase in immune response functions in late lactation was observed. The results provide information of candidate genes and pathways involved in the different stages of lactation in buffalo. The study also identified 14 differentially expressed and highly connected genes across the three lactation stages, which can be used as candidates for future research.
Fluorophore labelled BVDV: a novel tool for the analysis of infection dynamics
Authors: Riedel Christiane , Lamp Benjamin , Chen Hann-Wei , Heimann Manuela , Rümenapf Till
Published: April 2019

Genetic labelling of viruses with a fluorophore allows to study their life cycle in real time, without the need for fixation or staining techniques. Within the family Flaviviridae, options for genetic labelling of non-structural proteins exist. Yet, no system to genetically label structural proteins has been put forward to date. Taking advantage of a previously described site within the structural protein E2, a fluorophore was introduced into a cytopathogenic (cpe) BVDV-1 virus (BVDVE2_fluo). This insertion was well tolerated, resulting in a 2-fold drop in titer compared to the parental virus, and remained stably integrated into the genome for more than 10 passages. The fluorophore E2 fusion protein was readily detectable in purified virus particles by Western blot and fluorescence microscopy and the particle integrity and morphology was confirmed by cryo electron microscopy. The same integration site could also be used to label the related Classical swine fever virus. Also, BVDVE2_fluo particles bound to fluorophore labelled CD46 expressing cells could be resolved in fluorescence microscopy. This underlines the applicability of BVDVE2_fluo as a tool to study the dynamics of the whole life cycle of BVDV in real time.
Synergistic catalysis of binary alkalis for the recycling of unsaturated polyester under mild conditions
Authors: An Wenli , Wang Xiong-Lei , Yang Yang , Xu Huaxiu , Xu Shimei , Wang Yu-Zhong
Published: April 2019

Controlled conversion of waste resins to value-added chemicals by the synergistic catalysis of binary alkali.
Built to bind: biosynthetic strategies for the formation of small-molecule protease inhibitors
Authors: Kaysser Leonard
Published: April 2019

The discovery and characterization of natural product protease inhibitors has inspired the development of numerous pharmaceutical agents.
Hollow black TiAlOx nanocomposites for solar thermal desalination
Authors: Yi Luocai , Qi Dianpeng , Shao Ping , Lei Chaojun , Hou Yang , Cai Pingwei , Wang Genxiang , Chen Xiaodong , Wen Zhenhai
Published: April 2019

Hollow TiAlOx composites with solar desalination efficiency up to 71.1% in a high salinity environment were synthesized by a molten salt method.
Homopurine RP-stereodefined phosphorothioate analogs of DNA with hampered Watson–Crick base pairings form Hoogsteen paired parallel duplexes with (2′-OMe)-RNAs
Authors: Maciaszek Anna , Jastrzębska Katarzyna , Guga Piotr
Published: April 2019

At pH 7.2, N6-methyl-dA units present in homopurine RP-stereodefined PS-DNA oligomers stabilize Hoogsteen paired duplexes with (2′-OMe)-RNA matrices by 3 °C per modified unit.
Uniform dendrimer-like mesoporous silica nanoparticles as a nano-adjuvant for foot-and-mouth disease virus-like particle vaccine
Authors: Liu Zhijun , Ru Jiaxi , Sun Shiqi , Teng Zhidong , Dong Hu , Song Pin , Yang Yunshang , Guo Huichen
Published: April 2019

Dendrimer-like mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) with large center-radial mesopores have been prepared for macromolecular protein loading and delivery.
Monitoring mitochondrial pH with a hemicyanine-based ratiometric fluorescent probe
Authors: Xiao Haibin , Dong Yaqi , Zhou Jin , Zhou Ziyan , Wu Xiaozhong , Wang Rongzhou , Miao Zhichao , Liu Yuying , Zhuo Shuping
Published: April 2019

We describe a new ratiometric fluorescent probe for monitoring mitochondrial pH.
Intratumoral delivery of M-CSF by calcium crosslinked polymer micelles enhances cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Mao Kuirong , Cong Xiuxiu , Feng Liangzhu , Chen Hongmei , Wang Jialiang , Wu Chenxi , Liu Kun , Xiao Chunsheng , Yang Yong-Guang , Sun Tianmeng
Published: April 2019

This study provides new avenues for cascade amplification of the antitumor effects by regulating the tumor microenvironment.
A rapidly self-assembling soft-brush DNA hydrogel based on RCA products
Authors: Song Huan , Zhang Yangzi , Cheng Ping , Chen Xu , Luo Yunbo , Xu Wentao
Published: April 2019

A rapid self-assembly strategy was developed for fabricating a novel soft-brush DNA hydrogel in one minute by introducing a pair of L-type probes into the RCA products.
BiVO4 tubular structures: oxygen defect-rich and largely exposed reactive {010} facets synergistically boost photocatalytic water oxidation and the selective NN coupling reaction of 5-amino-1H-tetrazole
Authors: Hu Jianqiang , He Huichao , Zhou Xin , Li Zhaosheng , Shen Qing , Luo Wenjun , Alsaedi Ahmed , Hayat Tasawar , Zhou Yong , Zou Zhigang
Published: April 2019

Oxygen defect-rich monoclinic BiVO4 nanotubes with largely exposed active {010} facets were designed to exhibit impressive photocatalytic performance for both water oxidation and the selective NN coupling reaction of 5-amino-1H-tetrazole.
pH-Dependent structure of water-exposed surfaces of CdSe quantum dots
Authors: Westmoreland Dana E. , Nap Rikkert J. , Arcudi Francesca , Szleifer Igal , Weiss Emily A.
Published: April 2019

Weakly-bound ligands in dynamic exchange expose the surface of CdSe quantum dots to pH-dependent modification.
DNA-mediated reversible capture and release of circulating tumor cells with a multivalent dual-specific aptamer coating network
Authors: Lin Yuhong , Jiang Lili , Huang Yuqing , Yang Yuling , He Yu , Lu Chunhua , Yang Huanghao
Published: April 2019

Reversible isolation and release of circulating tumor cells based on DNA-responsive multivalent dual-aptamer-tethered rolling circle amplification network.
Efficient “turn-off” fluorescence photoswitching in a highly fluorescent diarylethene single crystal
Authors: Ishida Sanae , Kitagawa Daichi , Kobatake Seiya , Kim Sunnam , Kurihara Seiji , Fukaminato Tuyoshi
Published: April 2019

Efficient “turn-off” fluorescence photoswitching with full reversibility was successfully demonstrated in a fluorescent diarylethene single crystal.
A novel blue-emitting Eu2+-doped chlorine silicate phosphor with a narrow band for illumination and displays: structure and luminescence properties
Authors: Wei Qi , Zhou Xufeng , Tang Zuobin , Wang Xicheng , Wang Yuhua
Published: April 2019

A novel silicate-based phosphor Ba5SiO4Cl6:Eu2+ (BSOC:Eu2+) was successfully designed and investigated through the solid-state method.
Conformational isomers oftrans-urocanic acid observed by rotational spectroscopy
Authors: Cooper Graham A. , Medcraft Chris , Gougoula Eva , Walker Nicholas R.
Published: April 2019

Rotational spectra have been measured and assigned for four conformers oftrans-urocanic acid.
A competitive hopping model for carrier transport in disordered organic semiconductors
Authors: Zhao Chongguang , Li Chen , Duan Lian
Published: April 2019

In the competitive hopping process, carriers occupying states with higher energy levels have higher probabilities and higher rates of hopping to the transport energy.
A highly selective lanthanide-containing probe for ratiometric luminescence detection of an anthrax biomarker
Authors: Liu Xiao , Li Bin , Xu Yang , Li Zhiqiang , Zhang Ying , Ding Zhi-Jun , Cui Hui , Wang Jing , Hou Hong-Biao , Li Huanrong
Published: April 2019

We report a ratiometric luminescent sensor that can identify the Bacillus anthrax biomarker with outstanding selectivity, even including all of the 5 DPA isomers.
Portable biohybrid odorant sensors using cell-laden collagen micropillars
Authors: Hirata Yusuke , Morimoto Yuya , Nam Eunryel , Takeuchi Shoji
Published: April 2019

Portable biohybrid odorant sensors composed of cell-laden collagen pillars and a CMOS imaging sensor achieve quantitative measurement of odorants with high selectivity.
N-Heterocyclic carbene-catalyzed diastereoselective synthesis of sulfenylated indanesviasulfa-Michael–Michael (aldol) cascade reactions
Authors: Feng Ze-Nan , Luo Jin-Yun , Zhang Yang , Du Guang-Fen , He Lin
Published: April 2019

N-Heterocyclic carbene (NHC)-catalyzed diastereoselective synthesis of multisubstituted sulfenylated indanes has been developed.
Extraction, structural characterization, and thermal and biomedical properties of sulfated polysaccharides from razor clamSolen marginatus
Authors: Souissi Nabil , Boughriba Soumaya , Abdelhedi Ola , Hamdi Marwa , Jridi Mourad , Li Suming , Nasri Moncef
Published: April 2019

In this study, some biological activities of sulfated polysaccharides extracted fromSolen marginatusflesh were investigatedviaphysicochemical characterization of the crude polysaccharide SM-CP and its deproteinized fraction SM-DP.
Biocompatible carbon-doped MoSe2 nanoparticles as a highly efficient targeted agent for human renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Gao Li , Fan Yi-zeng , Zhang Tao-hong , Xu Hui-qiu , Zeng Xian-ling , Hou Tao , Dan Wei-chao , Zeng Jin , An Rui-fang
Published: April 2019

HK-2 cells have weak cellular uptake efficiency leading to high viability with carbon-doped MoSe2 nanoparticles.
Enantioselective conjugate hydrosilylation of α,β-unsaturated ketones
Authors: Yang Huan , Weng Guanglin , Fang Dongmei , Peng Changjiang , Zhang Yuanyuan , Zhang Xiaomei , Wang Zhouyu
Published: April 2019

Enantioselective conjugate hydrosilylation of β,β-disubstituted α,β-unsaturated ketones was realized.
Model-based temperature control for improving lactic acid production from glycerol
Authors: Cheng Ke-Ke , Zeng Jing , Jian Jing-Hai , Zhu Jun-Fan , Zhang Gui-Xing , Liu De-Hua
Published: April 2019

With model-based temperature control, yield of lactic acid obtained was higher than that obtained in the conventional process with a constant temperature.
Retraction: Organometallic Ag nanostructures prepared using Hypericum perforatum extract are highly effective against multidrug-resistant bacteria
Authors: Maqbool Qaisar , Kruszka Dariusz , Kachlicki Piotr , Franklin Gregory
Published: April 2019

Retraction of ‘Organometallic Ag nanostructures prepared using Hypericum perforatum extract are highly effective against multidrug-resistant bacteria’ by Qaisar Maqbool et al., RSC Adv., 2018, 8, 30562–30572.
Active Brownian filaments with hydrodynamic interactions: conformations and dynamics
Authors: Martín-Gómez Aitor , Eisenstecken Thomas , Gompper Gerhard , Winkler Roland G.
Published: April 2019

Hydrodynamic interactions determine both dynamical and conformational properties of polymers with self-propelled monomers. Simulations and mean-field theory predict activity-dependent compact or swollen structures.
Damage cross-effect and anisotropy in tough double network hydrogels revealed by biaxial stretching
Authors: Mai Thanh-Tam , Matsuda Takahiro , Nakajima Tasuku , Gong Jian Ping , Urayama Kenji
Published: April 2019

Anisotropy of strain-induced internal damage in tough double network (DN) hydrogels is characterized by a sequence of two tensile experiments.
B-terminated (111) polar surfaces of BP and BAs: promising metal-free electrocatalysts with large reaction regions for nitrogen fixation
Authors: Chen Zhe , Zhao Jingxiang , Yin Lichang , Chen Zhongfang
Published: April 2019

Promising metal-free electrocatalysts reduce nitrogen to ammonia under ambient conditions with high-efficiency, high-selectivity and large reaction regions.
Bimetallic vanadium cobalt diselenide nanosheets with additional active sites for excellent asymmetric pseudocapacitive performance: comparing the electrochemical performances with M–CoSe2 (M = Zn, Mn, and Cu)
Authors: Sakthivel Mani , Ramaraj Sukanya , Chen Shen-Ming , Ho Kuo-Chuan
Published: April 2019

Recently, bimetallic selenides have been considered as efficient electrocatalysts towards various electrochemical applications.
Calibrations for minimal networks in a covering space setting
Authors: Carioni Marcello , Pluda Alessandra
Published: April 2019

In this paper, we define a notion of calibration for an approach to the classical Steiner problem in a covering space setting and we give some explicit examples. Moreover, we introduce the notion of calibration in families: the idea is to divide the set of competitors in a suitable way, defining an appropriate (and weaker) notion of calibration. Then, calibrating the candidate minimizers in each family and comparing their perimeter, it is possible to find the minimizers of the minimization problem. Thanks to this procedure we prove the minimality of the Steiner configurations spanning the vertices of a regular hexagon and of a regular pentagon.
Critical factors affecting a successful BIM integrated design solution
Authors: Nývlt Vladimír , Novotný Radimír
Published: April 2019

There are arguments, that new technologies in general, which is particularly true for BIM, are an opportunity to change the work routine. On the other hand, recent research shows that successful adoption of BIM depends on allowing the team to adapt new technologies to suit existing workflows. The struggle for power and organizational change occurs when individuals, teams and organizations progressively move through changes to the risks associated with standard procedures, the interests of intellectual property, the financial risks associated with capital investment in both hardware and software, as well as to the investments needed to train and retain technologically advanced employees. So, what should be considered primary if an organization starts implementing BIM? Are non-technical (social) factors more critical than technical or vice versa? And among those who will face all the organizations that are the most critical?
Influence of available resources on the defect elimination
Authors: Vytlačil Dalibor
Published: April 2019

The paper investigates the influence of resources that we need for maintaining the buildings. The quality and quantity of the maintenance works ensure the level of services that are provided for building users. The solution is based on the system dynamics methodology. The model has been developed where the main input parameters are available resources – components for the maintenance of the building, workers and financial resources. The main output parameter is number of defects and the balance of the financial resources. This parameter includes the costs of the planned maintenance and costs of the repair works. The case study presents the calculation of main parameters. The outputs demonstrate the importance of well-designed budget and adequate hire rate.
To the quality of project documentation
Authors: Tuháček Martin , Svoboda Pavel
Published: April 2019

The article deals with the topic of control of the project documentation, the quality of the project documentation and its influence on the final quality of the realized product. The aim is to create tools for monitoring of defects and their analysis. As part of improving the control of project documentation, I am introducing a system of classification of complained defects. These defects are then focused on expert analysis. Based on its evaluation, I apply the knowledge gained to the project documentation control. My goal is to create a system, that will prevent the recurrent occurrence of identical claimed defects. By eliminating of claimed defects it is possible to achieve considerable financial savings within building companies.
Brownfield database in light of the BIM method
Authors: Kramářová Zuzana , Prušková Kristýna
Published: April 2019

The paper deals with two very current topics – brownfields and BIM models, building information models. While BIM models of buildings and their interconnection to other systems (GIS) are both, in the Czech Republic and internationally, the issue discussed not only by the professional public, but also by politicians, brownfields and their databases are at the edge of interest in political-decision-making. It can be said that the brownfield database, ie areas with predominantly defective and unused buildings, with the data contained therein can form the basis for data models of these building and areas. This article outlines the information, data and knowledge of brownfields used by all professions in the AEC industry and examines their compatibility with BIM models of building or areas, that go hand in hand with the current BIM transition in the Czech Republic.
Ageing of Adhesive Joints for Façade Applications – Comparison of Artificial and Real Weathering Conditions
Authors: Nečasová Barbora , Liška Pavel , Novotný Michal
Published: April 2019

Currently, the adhesive joints are more and more regularly used as an alternative to mechanical joints. They often offer a more suitable, durable and faster possibility. They provide a solution with a more even distribution of stresses in the joint, which consequently allows an increase in the rigidity of the structure and allows it to withstand even heavy loads. High - strength flexible adhesive systems enable the implementation of effective structural joints, and although several decades have passed since the certification and installation of the first façade system with bonded anchoring, even today it is not a matter that is properly grounded in technical standards. A list of specific test procedures on whose basis the behaviour of the joint over the next 40 years could be predicted does not exist. On the basis of these facts, the authors have decided to subject the test samples both to laboratory measurements, where two methods were selected, as well as to expose them to the effects of real weather conditions for a 3-year period. Comparison of the real environment influence results and the methods of artificial aging showed that the selected conditioning methods adequately simulate the effects of weather conditions.
Principles of Sustainable Development in Highway Engineering
Authors: Žák Jaroslav
Published: April 2019

The objective of the proposed paper is to gain new knowledge and to verify the existing general knowledge from the area of sustainable development in the bridge and road engineering. The attention is mainly focused on mapping the localities of selected constructions before their commencement or the use of the existing information about these localities, monitoring the selected constructions during their construction and for the relevant period after they are completed. The paper will also describe creation and verification of a model of social acceptability of the construction and performance of economic assessment of the use of natural resources, potential demolition and land reclamation. The connected analyses will concern with the modification of technological procedures of construction to ensure the minimum impact on the surrounding environment.
Methodology of verification for risk the biocorrosion development in the layers of “Double ETICS”.
Authors: Belániová Barbora , Antošová Naďa
Published: April 2019

Anyhow renovation of the surfaces of building materials and structures without thorough disposal of biological material has not been proven in the past. The main topic of the paper is to find out the functionality of the new technology in terms of survival and development of biocorrosion in structures. The main focus of the thesis is verification the treatment of moisture composite "Double ETICS", the possible growth of microorganisms and the subsequent degradation of components. The aim of research is to propose a methodology for the verification of humidity and temperature conditions in the composite construction and development of microorganisms after application of alternative technology of preparation of the substrate under the technology "Double ETICS".
Assessment of indoor air quality in university classrooms
Authors: Kraus Michal , Nováková Petra
Published: April 2019

This contribution describes the subjective assessment process of indoor environmental conditions in university classrooms. The university campus consisting of several buildings is situated on the outskirts of the town of České Budějovice (South Bohemia, Czech Republic). A high level of indoor environment quality (IEQ) is a key factor to achieve healthy environments in buildings. Suitable indoor air quality is more important in schools and universities (no-industrial civic amenities) than in many other buildings. Indoor air quality in the university environment affects learning processes, concentration, and productivity of students. It also could affect the health of students and teachers in long-term. Students are at greater risk because of the hours spent in educational facilities. The evaluation of the subjective assessment of the quality of the indoor environment at university classrooms is described within the paper.
Defects of the building and its remediation – Case study: Elementary school Vodňany
Authors: Dědič Martin
Published: April 2019

The aim of the paper is to provide information on the defects in the construction of the elementary school in Vodňany. The building of the elementary school dates back to 1973. It is a reinforced concrete columns skeleton with a filling peripheral and internal dividing brick masonry. The object is used by the primary school and is permanently used and maintained. The extent of structural damage is stabilized in the current state and is not an immediate risk to the user of the object. It concerns only non-load-bearing structures (floor and partitions), the vertical load-bearing structures do not show a decrease and therefore the stability of the whole building is not compromised. However, actual damage complicates operation of elementary school and is very non-aesthetic. Concurrent damage to structures is the result of vertical deformation of the foundation soil. Vertical deformation of the foundation soil - sediment is the result of the building construction on a former creek which was not properly excavated and covered with a suitable backfill. Subsidence further strengthens imperfect drained rainwater from the roof of the building and leakage of rainwater drains.
Physicochemical properties of new peanut (Arachis hypogaeaL.) varieties
Authors: Zahran Hamdy A. , Tawfeuk Hesham Z.
Published: April 2019

Peanuts (Arachis hypogaeaL.) are one of the major oilseed crops of the world and are an important source of protein in many countries. In this study, some nutrients and characteristics of the seeds’ oil extracted from four peanut (Arachis hypogaeaL.) varieties: Line 27r (Israel), Line 9 (Malawi), Line 4 (Brazil) and Line 18 (Israel) cultivated, for first time, in Upper Egypt were subjected to the comparative assessment with control NC variety (USA). Peanut seeds are a rich source of oil content (50.45 to 52.12 g 100 g−1dry weight “DW”). The physicochemical properties of extracted oil were investigated in this study. The obtained data showed that the ratios of saturated fatty acids ranged from 14.24 to 17.23%, and the amounts of unsaturated fatty acids ranged from 82.77 to 85.76%. Significant variations (p ≤ 0.05) of oil content, saponification value, oleic/linoleic (O/L), and oil characteristics were found. Line 9 was found to be high in oil content, while Line 27r was said to have a high O/L ratio (3.22%) and proportion of unsaturated fatty acids (85.76%).
Safety and efficacy of non-anesthesiologist administration of propofol sedation during esophagogastroduodenoscopy in the intensive care unit
Authors: Patel Janaki , Fang John , Taylor Linda , Adler Douglas , Gawron Andrew
Published: April 2019

Background and study aims Propofol sedation is an increasingly popular method of sedation for gastrointestinal endoscopic procedures. The safety and efficacy of the non-anesthesiologist administration of propofol (NAAP) sedation has been demonstrated in the ambulatory setting. However, NAAP sedation in intensive care unit (ICU) patients has not been reported. The purpose of this study is to determine safety and efficacy of NAAP sedation in an ICU population.

Methods We retrospectively reviewed esophagogastroduodenoscopies (EGD) performed with NAAP sedation in our intensive care units from June 2014 to September 2016. All EGDs were performed for evaluation of gastrointestinal bleeding. The primary end point of this study was to analyze the incidence of sedation-related adverse events (AEs). The secondary end points included successful completion of procedure and any endoscopic interventions performed.

Results Two of 161 procedures (1.2 %) had sedation-related AEs requiring procedure termination. One hundred forty-six of 161 procedures (90.7 %) were successfully completed. Incomplete procedures were due to excess heme, retained food or obstructive lesions (13/161, 8.1 %). Endoscopic intervention was performed successfully in 17/24 cases (70.8 %) that had endoscopically treated lesions identified. One hundred six of 161 patients (66 %) were American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification III or IV.

Conclusion Our retrospective analysis demonstrated that EGDs can be successfully completed in ICU patients using NAAP sedation. When procedures cannot be completed, it is rarely due to sedation-related AEs. NAAP sedation further allows adequate examination and successful treatment of high-risk lesions. NAAP sedation appears safe and effective for endoscopic procedures in the ICU setting.
Das große Artensterben
Authors: Oberhauser Anette
Published: April 2019

2011 verschärfte eine Reform des Arzneimittelgesetzes das Inverkehrbringen für Arzneimittel jeder Art. Besonders hart, wenn auch ohne gesetzgeberische Absicht, trafen die Neuerungen Arzneimittel tierischen Ursprungs aus dem Bereich der Naturheilkunde, insbesondere Homöopathika, Nosoden und Zellextrakte. Viele Präparate verschwanden vom Markt, weil ihre Entwicklung, Produktion und Vermarktung angesichts der neuen Registrierungsbestimmungen für Hersteller nicht mehr wirtschaftlich war.
Endoscopic ultrasound findings and pathological features of pancreatic carcinoma in situ
Authors: Izumi Yoshihiro , Hanada Keiji , Okazaki Akihito , Minami Tomoyuki , Hirano Naomichi , Ikemoto Juri , Kanemitsu Kozue , Nakadoi Koichi , Shishido Takayoshi , Katamura Yoshio , Onogawa Seiji , Amano Hajime , Hino Fumiaki , Amano Hironobu , Yonehara Shuji
Published: April 2019

Background and study aims Few studies have evaluated detection of pancreatic carcinoma in situ (PCIS). We evaluated findings of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and pathological features of PCIS.

Patients and methods We histopathologically studied 16 patients with PCIS following EUS. Diagnostic features evaluated retrospectively included stricture of the main pancreatic duct (MPD) on EUS, presence or absence of hypoechoic areas surrounding the MPD stricture on EUS, the noncancerous part (pancreas of background) on EUS and histopathology, and histological findings adjacent to the area of PCIS.

Results On EUS, stricture of the MPD was found in 15 patients (93.8 %). Hypoechoic areas surrounding the MPD stricture were observed in 9 patients (56.3 %), including three (18.8 %) with a 10- to 11-mm hypoechoic mass. EUS findings of the noncancerous part indicated chronic pancreatitis in six patients (37.5 %), pancreatic fatty infiltration in seven (43.8 %), early chronic pancreatitis in two (12.5 %), and normal pancreas in one (6.3 %). Histological findings of the noncancerous part (proximal to the MPD stricture) indicated chronic pancreatitis in 13 patients (81.3 %) and pancreatic fatty infiltration in five patients (31.3 %). Histopathologically, subepithelial inflammatory cell infiltration and fibrosis were present in all 16 patients with PCIS.

Conclusions PCIS frequently causes localized changes in inflammation and fibrosis around the pancreatic duct. PCIS often accompanies chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic fatty infiltration in the background of the pancreas. EUS offers sufficient resolution to demonstrate pancreatic changes of PCIS.