bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plasma membrane-derived extracellular microvesicles mediate non-canonical intercellular NOTCH signaling
Authors: Wang Qiyu , Lu Quan
Published: September 2017

ARMMs (arrestin domain-containing protein 1 (ARRDC1)-mediated microvesicles) are extracellular vesicles that bud directly at the plasma membrane; however, little is known about the molecular composition and physiological function of these vesicles. Here we report that ARMMs contain active NOTCH receptors and mediate a non-canonical intercellular NOTCH signaling. We identify over 100 proteins that are significantly enriched in ARMMs, including ARRDC1, TSG101 and multiple ESCRT complex proteins. About a third of ARMMs-enriched proteins are plasma membrane proteins, including the NOTCH2 receptor. The incorporation of NOTCH2 into ARMMs is facilitated by the ITCH E3 ligase and the metalloprotease ADAM10, both of which are also secreted into ARMMs. NOTCH2 in ARMMs can be delivered into recipient cells, and upon activation by γ-secretase cleavage, induces NOTCH-specific gene expression. Together, our findings reveal a role for ARMMs in a novel NOTCH signaling pathway that acts in distance and is independent of direct cell–cell contact.
Erratum: Niche-localized tumor cells are protected from HER2-targeted therapy via upregulation of an anti-apoptotic program in vivo
Authors: Zoeller Jason J. , Bronson Roderick T. , Selfors Laura M. , Mills Gordon B. , Brugge Joan S.
Published: September 2017

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML version of this article.
Early detection of pulmonary exacerbations in children with Cystic Fibrosis by electronic home monitoring of symptoms and lung function
Authors: van Horck Marieke , Winkens Bjorn , Wesseling Geertjan , van Vliet Dillys , van de Kant Kim , Vaassen Sanne , de Winter-de Groot Karin , de Vreede Ilja , Jöbsis Quirijn , Dompeling Edward
Published: September 2017

Pulmonary exacerbations (PEx) in Cystic Fibrosis (CF) are associated with an increased morbidity and even mortality. We investigated whether early detection of PEx in children with CF is possible by electronic home monitoring of symptoms and lung function. During this one-year prospective multi-centre study, 49 children with CF were asked to use a home monitor three times a week. Measurements consisted of a respiratory symptom questionnaire and assessment of Forced Expiratory Volume in one second (FEV1). Linear mixed-effects and multiple logistic regression analyses were used. In the 2 weeks before a PEx, the Respiratory Symptom Score (RSS) of the home monitor increased (p = 0.051). The FEV1 as percentage of predicted (FEV1%pred) did not deteriorate in the 4 weeks before a PEx. Nevertheless, the FEV1%pred at the start of exacerbation was significantly lower than the FEV1%pred in the non-exacerbation group (mean difference 16.3%, p = 0.012). The combination of FEV1%pred and RSS had a sensitivity to predict an exacerbation of 92.9% (CI 75.0–98.8%) and a specificity of 88.9% (CI 50.7–99.4%). The combination of home monitor FEV1%pred and RSS can be helpful to predict a PEx in children with CF at an early stage.
Critical Role of ADAMTS-4 in the Development of Sporadic Aortic Aneurysm and Dissection in Mice
Authors: Ren Pingping , Hughes Michael , Krishnamoorthy Swapna , Zou Sili , Zhang Lin , Wu Darrell , Zhang Chen , Curci John A. , Coselli Joseph S. , Milewicz Dianna M. , LeMaire Scott A. , Shen Ying H.
Published: September 2017

Sporadic aortic aneurysm and dissections (AADs) are common vascular diseases that carry a high mortality rate. ADAMTS-4 (a disintegrin-like and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs-4) is a secreted proteinase involved in inflammation and matrix degradation. We previously showed ADAMTS-4 levels were increased in human sporadic descending thoracic AAD (TAAD) samples. Here, we provide evidence that ADAMTS-4 contributes to aortic destruction and sporadic AAD development. In a mouse model of sporadic AAD induced by a high-fat diet and angiotensin II infusion, ADAMTS-4 deficiency (Adamts-4−/−) significantly reduced challenge-induced aortic diameter enlargement, aneurysm formation, dissection and aortic rupture. Aortas in Adamts-4−/− mice showed reduced elastic fibre destruction, versican degradation, macrophage infiltration, and apoptosis. Interestingly, ADAMTS-4 was directly involved in smooth muscle cell (SMC) apoptosis. Under stress, ADAMTS-4 translocated to the nucleus in SMCs, especially in apoptotic SMCs. ADAMTS-4 directly cleaved and degraded poly ADP ribose polymerase-1 (a key molecule in DNA repair and cell survival), leading to SMC apoptosis. Finally, we showed significant ADAMTS-4 expression in aortic tissues from patients with sporadic ascending TAAD, particularly in SMCs. Our findings indicate that ADAMTS-4 induces SMC apoptosis, degrades versican, promotes inflammatory cell infiltration, and thus contributes to sporadic AAD development.
Erratum: Reconstructing the phylogeny of Blattodea: robust support for interfamilial relationships and major clades
Authors: Wang Zongqing , Shi Yan , Qiu Zhiwei , Che Yanli , Lo Nathan
Published: September 2017

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML version of this paper. The error has been fixed in the paper.
The mechanism (Phe362Tyr mutation) behind resistance in Lepeophtheirus salmonis pre-dates organophosphate use in salmon farming
Authors: Kaur Kiranpreet , Besnier Francois , Glover Kevin A. , Nilsen Frank , Aspehaug Vidar Teis , Fjørtoft Helene Børretzen , Horsberg Tor Einar
Published: September 2017

The salmon louse is an ectoparasitic copepod of salmonids in the marine environment, and represents a global challenge to salmon aquaculture. A major issue is the reliance of the industry on a limited number of chemicals to delouse salmonids on farms, and the high levels of resistance that lice have developed to all of these agents. However, for most of these chemicals, resistance and dispersal mechanisms are unknown. We recently demonstrated that the Phe362Tyr mutation is the primary cause of organophosphate resistance in lice collected on Norwegian farms. In the present study, we genotyped >2000 lice collected throughout the entire North Atlantic in the period 1998–2016, using Phe362Tyr and nine tightly linked SNPs. Our results showed that the Phe362Tyr mutation is strongly linked to lice survival following chemical treatment on farms located throughout the North Atlantic, demonstrating for the first time, that this mutation represents the primary mechanism for organophosphate resistance in salmon lice across the North Atlantic. Additionally, we observed multiple and diverse high frequency haplotypes linked with the allele conveying resistance to organophosphate. We, therefore, conclude that Phe362Tyr is not a de novo mutation, but probably existed in salmon lice before the introduction of organophosphates in commercial aquaculture.
Cell Penetrating Peptide Derived from Human Eosinophil Cationic Protein Decreases Airway Allergic Inflammation
Authors: Fu Lin-shien , Wu Yu-Rou , Fang Shun-lung , Tsai Jaw-ji , Lin Heng-kuei , Chen Yee-jun , Chen Ting-Yu , Chang Margaret Dah-Tsyr
Published: September 2017

Cell penetrating peptide derived from human eosinophil cationic protein (CPPecp) is a 10-amino-acid peptide containing a core heparan sulfate (HS)-binding motif of human eosinophil cationic protein (ECP). It binds and penetrates bronchial epithelial cells without cytotoxic effects. Here we investigated airway-protective effects of CPPecp in BEAS-2B cell line and mite-induced airway allergic inflammation in BALB/c mice. In BEAS-2B cell, CPPecp decreases ECP-induced eotaxin mRNA expression. CPPecp also decreases eotaxin secretion and p-STAT6 activation induced by ECP, as well as by IL-4.In vivostudies showed CPPecp decreased mite-induced airway inflammation in terms of eosinophil and neutrophil count in broncho-alveolar lavage fluid, peri-bronchiolar and alveolar pathology scores, cytokine production in lung protein extract including interleukin (IL)-5, IL-13, IL-17A/F, eotaxin; and pause enhancement from methacholine stimulation. CPPecp treated groups also showed lower serum mite-specific IgE level. In this study, we have demonstrated thein vitroandin vivoanti-asthma effects of CPPecp.
Peatland Ecosystem Processes in the Maritime Antarctic During Warm Climates
Authors: Loisel Julie , Yu Zicheng , Beilman David W. , Kaiser Karl , Parnikoza Ivan
Published: September 2017

We discovered a 50-cm-thick peat deposit near Cape Rasmussen (65.2°S), in the maritime Antarctic. To our knowledge, while aerobic ‘moss banks’ have often been examined, waterlogged ‘peatlands’ have never been described in this region before. The waterlogged system is approximately 100 m2, with a shallow water table. Surface vegetation is dominated by Warnstorfia fontinaliopsis, a wet-adapted moss commonly found in the Antarctic Peninsula. Peat inception was dated at 2750 cal. BP and was followed by relatively rapid peat accumulation (~0.1 cm/year) until 2150 cal. BP. Our multi-proxy analysis then shows a 2000-year-long stratigraphic hiatus as well as the recent resurgence of peat accumulation, sometime after 1950 AD. The existence of a thriving peatland at 2700–2150 cal. BP implies regionally warm summer conditions extending beyond the mid-Holocene; this finding is corroborated by many regional records showing moss bank initiation and decreased sea ice extent during this time period. Recent peatland recovery at the study site (<50 years ago) might have been triggered by ongoing rapid warming, as the area is experiencing climatic conditions approaching those found on milder, peatland-rich sub-Antarctic islands (50–60°S). Assuming that colonization opportunities and stabilization mechanisms would allow peat to persist in Antarctica, our results suggest that longer and warmer growing seasons in the maritime Antarctic region may promote a more peatland-rich landscape in the future.
A deep eutectic solvent-based extraction method for fast determination of Hg in marine fish samples by cold vapor atomic absorption spectrometry
Authors: Rastegarifard Farzaneh , Ghanemi Kamal , Fallah-Mehrjardi Mehdi
Published: September 2017

The process of dissolution of marine fish samples in DES followed by a fast (∼5 s) and complete digestion in nitric acid for determination of Hg.
Orthogonal enzymatic reactions for rapid crosslinking and dynamic tuning of PEG–peptide hydrogels
Authors: Arkenberg Matthew R. , Lin Chien-Chi
Published: September 2017

A biocompatible PEG–peptide hydrogel with dynamically tunable stiffness was developed through sortase A-mediated crosslinking and mushroom tyrosinase-triggered stiffening.
Engineering highly swellable dual-responsive protein-based injectable hydrogels: the effects of molecular structure and composition in vivo
Authors: Phan V. H. Giang , Thambi Thavasyappan , Kim Bong Sup , Huynh Dai Phu , Lee Doo Sung
Published: September 2017

Highly swellable, dual-responsive bovine serum albumin (BSA)-based injectable hydrogels that exhibit sol-to-gel phase transitions in response to the physiological pH and temperature have been developed.
Decoration of exfoliated black phosphorus with nickel nanoparticles and its application in catalysis
Authors: Caporali Maria , Serrano-Ruiz Manuel , Telesio Francesca , Heun Stefan , Nicotra Giuseppe , Spinella Corrado , Peruzzini Maurizio
Published: September 2017

A new surface functionalization of exfoliated black phosphorus has been carried out with Ni nanoparticles. The nanohybrid catalyzed the semihydrogenation of phenylacetylene achieving high selectivity to styrene.
Thiols make for better catalysts: Au nanoparticles supported on functional SBA-15 for catalysis of Ullmann-type homocouplings
Authors: Chen Tianyou , Chen Ba-Tian , Bukhryakov Konstantin V. , Rodionov Valentin O.
Published: September 2017

A strategy for arraying nanoparticles (NPs) on mesoporous supports modified with functional self-assembled monolayers is described. Au NPs supported on materials containing thiols exhibited thermal stability and catalytic competency well beyond that of unsupported, thiol-protected Au NPs of similar size.
The STM bias voltage-dependent polymorphism of a binary supramolecular network
Authors: Cometto F. , Frank K. , Stel B. , Arisnabarreta N. , Kern K. , Lingenfelder M.
Published: September 2017

We control complex multicomponent switches by tuning the local electric field at the liquid/solid interface.
Threading the needle: guest transport in a versatile 0D porous molecular crystal
Authors: Nikolayenko Varvara I. , Heyns Anneli , Barbour Leonard J.
Published: September 2017

Porous host crystals of the metallocycle [Cu2(1,3-bis(imidazol-1-ylmethyl)-2,4,6-trimethylbenzene)2Cl4]·2CH3OH are permeable to a series of small organic guests despite their lack of permanent channels.
Cysteine and glutathione trigger the Cu–Zn swap between Cu(ii)-amyloid-β4-16peptide and Zn7-metallothionein-3
Authors: Santoro Alice , Ewa Wezynfeld Nina , Vašák Milan , Bal Wojciech , Faller Peter
Published: September 2017

Cys and GSH can modulate the Cu/Zn distribution between CuII-amyloidβ4–16and Zn7metallothionein-3 being both reducing agents and shuttles for Cu.
Highlights from the Faraday Discussion on New Directions in Porous Crystalline Materials, Edinburgh, UK, June 2017
Authors: Addicoat Matthew A. , Bennett Thomas D. , Stassen Ivo
Published: September 2017

A lively discussion on new directions in porous crystalline materials took place in June 2017, with the beautiful city of Edinburgh as a backdrop, in the context of the unique Faraday Discussions format.
Refinement and modification of primary Mg2Si in an Al–20Mg2Si alloy by a combined addition of yttrium and antimony
Authors: Wang Hui-Yuan , Zhu Jia-Ning , Li Jie-Hua , Li Chao , Zha Min , Wang Cheng , Yang Zhi-Zheng , Jiang Qi-Chuan
Published: September 2017

The complex modification of primary Mg2Si in an Al–20Mg2Si alloy by simultaneous addition of yttrium (Y) and antimony (Sb) was investigated in the present work.
Nanodots of transition metal dichalcogenides embedded in MoS2 and MoSe2: first-principles calculations
Authors: Miwa Roberto Hiroki , Scopel Wanderlã L. , Souza Everson S. , Padilha José Eduardo , Fazzio Adalberto
Published: September 2017

The formation of a graphene interface with nanodots of NbS2 in MoS2 create a magnetic moment in the ND region.
Enhanced thermal stability of palladium oxidation catalysts using phosphate-modified alumina supports
Authors: Dong Jinshi , Wang Jun , Wang Jianqiang , Yang Ming , Li Wei , Shen Meiqing
Published: September 2017

Alumina with 5.0 μmol m−2 phosphorus additives could retain a higher Pd dispersion after aging, resulting in much higher CO oxidation activity.
Improving Pseudomonas fluorescens esterase for hydrolysis of lactones
Authors: Ding Qingbao , Kazlauskas Romas J.
Published: September 2017

Although both acyclic esters and lactones contain ester functional groups, their shapes differ and most esterases are poor catalysts for hydrolysis of lactones.
Isolation and characterization of a tetranuclear Pt–Fe⋯Fe–Pt intermediate en route to the trinuclear Pt–Fe–Pt cluster
Authors: Uemura Kazuhiro , Taoka Masahiro
Published: September 2017

An intermediate compound of a tetranuclear Pt–Fe⋯Fe–Pt complex in the synthetic process to form a trinuclear Pt–Fe–Pt complex by mixing the “amidate-hanging” Pt mononuclear complex and iron sources was successfully isolated and characterized by single-crystal X-ray analysis and several physical measurements.
Nickel–ruthenium-based complexes as biomimetic models of [NiFe] and [NiFeSe] hydrogenases for dihydrogen evolution
Authors: Gezer Gamze , Verbeek Sjoerd , Siegler Maxime A. , Bouwman Elisabeth
Published: September 2017

Electrocatalytic proton reduction was studied using nickel–ruthenium complexes that were developed as models for [NiFe] and [NiFeSe] hydrogenases.
Synthesis and characterization of uranium(iv) tetrachloro complexes in bis-pyrazolylpyridine ligand environments
Authors: Korzekwa Jana , Scheurer Andreas , Heinemann Frank W. , Meyer Karsten
Published: September 2017

The most intriguing feature in structures2a–2dis the out-of-plane shift of the U ion from the chelate's three coordinating N atoms (grey background: molecular plane), as exemplarily shown for2band2d.
Multi-biomarker approach in the scallop Chlamys farreri to assess PAHs pollution in Qingdao coastal areas of China
Authors: Pan Luqing , Zhang Mengyu , Jin Qian , Ji Rongwang
Published: September 2017

A multi-biomarker approach for the scallopChlamys farreriwas used to assess PAHs pollution and to select biomarkers for PAHs along the Qingdao coast.
Flexible nickel foam decorated with Pt/NiO nanoflakes with oxygen vacancies for enhanced catalytic formaldehyde oxidation at room temperature
Authors: Huang Shuying , Zhu Xiaofeng , Cheng Bei , Yu Jiaguo , Jiang Chuanjia
Published: September 2017

Flexible nickel foam coated with Pt/NiO nanoflakes was prepared for HCHO catalytic oxidation at ambient temperature.
Bio-based 1,3-diisobutyl imidazolium hydrogen oxalate [iBu2IM](HC2O4) as CO2shuttle
Authors: de Robillard G. , Fournier A. H. , Cattey H. , Devillers C. H. , Andrieu J.
Published: September 2017

Biobased imidazolium hydrogen oxalate, hydrogen carbonate and acetate are prepared from biosourcedl-valine, oxalic acid, glyoxal, and act as CO2shuttle.
Chemo-photothermal therapy of cancer cells using gold nanorod-cored stimuli-responsive triblock copolymer
Authors: Abbasian Mojtaba , Mahmoodzadeh Farideh , Salehi Roya , Amirshaghaghi Ahmad
Published: September 2017

The combination of photothermal therapy and chemotherapy, when carefully planned, has been shown to be an effective cancer treatment option clinically and preclinically.
An enantioselective synthesis of spiro-oxindole-based 3,4-dihydropyrroles via a Michael/cyclization cascade of 3-aminooxindoles with 2-enoylpyridines
Authors: Cui Baodong , Chen Yu , Shan Jing , Qin Lei , Yuan Changlun , Wang Yi , Han Wenyong , Wan Nanwei , Chen Yongzheng
Published: September 2017

This work provides a highly stereoselective route to access spiro[pyrrolidin-3,2′-oxindoles] and represents a new perspective for the synthesis of spirocyclic oxindoles.
Reprocessable polyhydroxyurethane networks exhibiting full property recovery and concurrent associative and dissociative dynamic chemistry via transcarbamoylation and reversible cyclic carbonate aminolysis
Authors: Chen Xi , Li Lingqiao , Jin Kailong , Torkelson John M.
Published: September 2017

We developed reprocessable polyhydroxyurethane (PHU) networks with full property recovery and incorporating both associative and dissociative dynamic chemistry.
Solvothermal synthesis of three-dimensional, Fe2O3NPs-embedded CNT/N-doped graphene composites with excellent microwave absorption performance
Authors: Zhou Nan , An Qingda , Xiao Zuoyi , Zhai Shangru , Shi Zhan
Published: September 2017

Superior electromagnetic-wave absorbing composites resulting from the integrative features of N-doped graphene, embedded Fe2O3NPs and CNTs and three-dimensional structures were facilely preparedviaa single-step solvothermal method.
Radiation enhanced uptake of Hg0(g) on iron (oxyhydr)oxide nanoparticles
Authors: Kurien Uday , Hu Zhenzhong , Lee Heonho , Dastoor Ashu P. , Ariya Parisa A.
Published: September 2017

We herein report kinetic studies on UV-visible radiation (315 ≤ λ ≤ 700 nm) enhanced uptake of Hg0(g) by proxies for reactive components of mineral dust (nano γ-Fe2O3, α-FeOOH, α-Fe2O3 and Fe3O4) and propose possible reaction mechanisms.
Synthesis and characterization of free-standing activated carbon/reduced graphene oxide film electrodes for flexible supercapacitors
Authors: Xu Lanshu , Li Yue , Jia Mengying , Zhao Qiang , Jin Xiaojuan , Yao Chunli
Published: September 2017

Free-standing, binder-free and flexible activated carbon/reduced graphene oxide (AC/rGO) composite films with various ratios were fabricated via a facile vacuum-filtration process.
Practical stability of Au25(SR)18−1/0/+1
Authors: Collins C. B. , Tofanelli M. A. , Crook M. F. , Phillips B. D. , Ackerson C. J.
Published: September 2017

A ‘practical’ stability model for ligated metal clusters, which includes both shell-closing aspects and colloidal stability aspects.
One-pot fabrication of ferric ferrocyanide functionalized graphene hydrogel for cesium removal in aqueous solution
Authors: He Yan-Rong , Yang Yang , Huang Zhao-Ya , Wang Wei-Juan , Li Xiao-Long , Zhang Peng-Hao , Tan Zhao-Yi , Zhang Dong
Published: September 2017

A novel ferric ferrocyanide functionalized graphene hydrogel was fabricated and was used for cesium removal in aqueous solution.
Nonlinear optical properties of metal nanoparticles: a review
Authors: Zhang Yu-xi , Wang Yu-hua
Published: September 2017

Metal nanoparticles (MNPs) hold great technological promise because of the possibility of engineering their electronic and optical properties through material design.
Attenuation of perfluorooctanoic acid-induced testicular oxidative stress and apoptosis by quercetin in mice
Authors: Yuan Yangyang , Ge Shuna , Lv Zehui , Wu Mei , Kuang Haibin , Yang Bei , Yang Jianhua , Wu Lei , Zou Weiying , Zhang Dalei
Published: September 2017

Quercetin treatment attenuated PFOA-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in the testes of mice.
Planar and 3D fibrous polyaniline-based materials for memristive elements
Authors: Malakhova Yulia N. , Korovin Alexei N. , Lapkin Dmitry A. , Malakhov Sergey N. , Shcherban Valentina V. , Pichkur Eugene B. , Yakunin Sergey N. , Demin Vyacheslav A. , Chvalun Sergey N. , Erokhin Victor
Published: September 2017

We discuss the effect of structure formation of Langmuir polyaniline layers on the performance of memristive thin-film elements as well as the morphology and conductivity of electrospinned PANI–PEO nonwovens.
Sparse fulleryne structures enhance potential hydrogen storage and mobility
Authors: Hug Colin , Cranford Steven W.
Published: September 2017

We propose a novel fullerene-like molecule—a so-called fulleryne—to increase potential hydrogen storage capacity of carbon-based systems, assessed via full atomistic molecular dynamics.
Ultralow lattice thermal conductivity in monolayer C3N as compared to graphene
Authors: Kumar S. , Sharma S. , Babar V. , Schwingenschlögl U.
Published: September 2017

We demonstrate that the thermal conductivity is massively reduced in monolayer C3N as compared to isostructural graphene.
Hierarchically structured reactors containing nanocarbons for intensification of chemical reactions
Authors: García-Bordejé Enrique , Liu Yuefeng , Su Dang Sheng , Pham-Huu Cuong
Published: September 2017

This review reports on the recent developments in hierarchically structured catalyst systems based on self-supported nanocarbons and homogeneous decoration of a macroscopic host matrix with a layer of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) or carbon nanofibers (CNFs).
Highly-efficient solid-state emissions of anthracene–o-carborane dyads with various substituents and their thermochromic luminescence properties
Authors: Naito Hirofumi , Nishino Kenta , Morisaki Yasuhiro , Tanaka Kazuo , Chujo Yoshiki
Published: September 2017

This manuscript reports synthesis and efficient solid-state luminescent properties of anthracenyl–o-carborane dyads with various substituents.
Understanding the links between composition, polyhedral distortion, and luminescence properties in green-emitting β-Si6−zAlzOzN8−z:Eu2+ phosphors
Authors: Cozzan Clayton , Laurita Geneva , Gaultois Michael W. , Cohen Marcus , Mikhailovsky Alexander A. , Balasubramanian Mahalingam , Seshadri Ram
Published: September 2017

Compositional tuning via Al/O in the SiAlON phosphor host distorts the activator site, resulting in improved optical properties.
White-light-emitting Cu,Mn co-doped Zn–In–S/ZnS quantum dots with high stability and their electroluminescence
Authors: Zhang Wen-Jin , Pan Chun-Yang , Cao Fan , Yang Xuyong
Published: September 2017

We developed a facile noninjection synthetic method to prepare white light-emitting Cd-free thick shell Cu,Mn:Zn–In–S/ZnS quantum dots (QDs) with high stability.
A benzobis(thiadiazole)-based small molecule as a solution-processing electron extraction material in planar perovskite solar cells
Authors: Zhu Liping , Song Changjian , Li Xiaodong , Wang Ying-Chiao , Zhang Wenxiao , Sun Xiaohua , Zhang Wenjun , Fang Junfeng
Published: September 2017

A novel small-molecule, B2F, based on benzobis(thiadiazole) was synthesized as an efficient electron extraction material for perovskite solar cells.
Giant reduction in thermal conductivity of extended type-I silicon clathrates and prominent thermal effect of 6d guest Wyckoff positions
Authors: Gao Yufei , Zhang Xiaoliang , Zhou Yanguang , Hu Ming
Published: September 2017

Clathrates exhibit exceptional properties such as high-performance thermoelectrics. The extension of cages and guest atoms in 6d Wyckoff positions (other than 2a positions) both have huge reduction effect on the thermal conductivity of Type-I clathrates, which provides important guidance to exploring new kinds of silicon clathrates for advanced thermoelectrics.
The optoelectronic properties of tungsten-doped indium oxide thin films prepared by polymer-assisted solution processing for use in organic solar cells
Authors: Kumar Vishwanath Sujaya , An Taekyu , Jin Won-Yong , Kang Jae-Wook , Kim Jihoon
Published: September 2017

Tungsten-doped indium oxide transparent conducting thin films, to be applied to inverted organic solar cells, were prepared by a polymer-assisted solution process.
Targeting epithelial–mesenchymal plasticity in cancer: clinical and preclinical advances in therapy and monitoring
Authors: Bhatia Sugandha , Monkman James , Toh Alan Kie Leong , Nagaraj Shivashankar H. , Thompson Erik W.
Published: September 2017

The concept of epithelial–mesenchymal plasticity (EMP), which describes the dynamic flux within the spectrum of phenotypic states that invasive carcinoma cells may reside, is being increasingly recognised for its role in cancer progression and therapy resistance. The myriad of events that are able to induce EMP, as well as the more recently characterised control loops, results in dynamic transitions of cancerous epithelial cells to more mesenchymal-like phenotypes through an epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), as well as the reverse transition from mesenchymal phenotypes to an epithelial one. The significance of EMP, in its ability to drive local invasion, generate cancer stem cells and facilitate metastasis by the dissemination of circulating tumour cells (CTCs), highlights its importance as a targetable programme to combat cancer morbidity and mortality. The focus of this review is to consolidate the existing knowledge on the strategies currently in development to combat cancer progression via inhibition of specific facets of EMP. The prevalence of relapse due to therapy resistance and metastatic propensity that EMP endows should be considered when designing therapy regimes, and such therapies should synergise with existing chemotherapeutics to benefit efficacy. To further improve upon EMP-targeted therapies, it is imperative to devise monitoring strategies to assess the impact of such treatments on EMP-related phenomenon such as CTC burden, chemosensitivity/-resistance and micrometastasis in patients.
YAP/TAZ-mediated activation of serine metabolism and methylation regulation is critical for LKB1-deficient breast cancer progression
Authors: Wu Qi , Li Juanjuan , Sun Si , Chen Xinyue , Zhang Hanpu , Li Bei , Sun Shengrong
Published: September 2017

The crucial interplay between metabolic remodeling and the epigenetics could contribute to promote cancer progression. A remarkable association within interaction, LKB1 has been reported, suggesting that the expression of key enzymes involving de novo serine synthesis and DNA methyltransferases like DNMT1 and DNMT3A increase LKB1-deficiency cells. However, the complex interactional link between metabolic remodeling and the epigenetics is still unclear. Hence, we focus on the relationship between YAP/TAZ and serine metabolism to control methylation of DNA or histone in breast cancer with LKB1 deficiency. We hypothesize that YAP/TAZ may have the function to activate key enzymes involving serine metabolism like PSPH and up-regulate the amino acid transporters to supply sources of serine synthesis through activation of C-MYC with TEAD1. Further, we speculate that YAP/TAZ in dependent of FOS may promote DNMT1 and subsequently mediate DNMT1–G9A complex involving serine metabolism and the methylation of DNA and histone. We hope that our study will stimulate further studies and a new targeted therapy and early medical intervention for YAP/TAZ could be a useful option for breast cancer cases complicated with LKB1 deficiency.
A Novel approach to fabricate self‐aligned graphene transistor
Authors: Zeng Rongzhou , Li Ping , Li Junhong , Liao Yongbo , Zhang Qingwei , Xie Xiaodong
Published: September 2017

An innovated simple fabrication process is adopted to fabricate a novel gate self‐aligned (GSA) graphene field effect transistor (GFET). First, stacked source/drain electrodes with triple‐layer metal are formed. Then, after slightly etching of the second metal layer, laterally recessed profiles are formed, which leads to the self‐aligned (SA) gate. A noticeable feature of the GSA‐GFET is that the access resistance is not changed with the level of the lateral recessing, which leads to a very small access resistance. Compared with the non‐SA‐GFET with same gate length and width, the contact resistance of the GSA‐GFET is reduced by 68%, the peak gm is 3.6 times improved, the on/off ratio is increased from 1.8 to 3.2.
Research on the long‐time operation performance of composite insulator shed hydrophobicity under hydrothermal conditions
Authors: Cheng Li , Shao Shanfeng , Zhang Sida , Liao Ruijin , Yang Lijun , Guo Chenjun
Published: September 2017

Due to excellent anti‐pollution flashover performance, a composite insulator has become the most frequently and widely used insulator product in transmission lines. Sheath hydrophobicity is the core factor that determines the anti‐pollution flashover performance of the composite insulator. To study the change rule of insulator sheath hydrophobicity under the long‐term operation condition, more than 390 samples produced by the same manufacturer that had operated for 3–22 years were extracted from the adjacent lines to eliminate the impact of the running environment and manufacturer formula. To study the reasons for hydrophobic fluctuations, surface energy tests and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy tests were conducted on the superficial layer materials based on a two‐droplet method. The change rule of the material physical and chemical properties with operation time was obtained. Next, the relationship between the surface microstructure of the material and operation time was determined by laser scanning confocal microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Finally, based on the analysis results of surface energy and surface topography, the physical model of shed material hydrophobic variation in the operation process was obtained.
Single‐layer dual‐broadband circularly polarised annular‐slot antenna for WLAN applications
Authors: Ge Lei , Sim Chow‐Yen‐Desmond , Su Hsin‐Lung , Lu Jun‐Yu , Ku Chin
Published: September 2017

This study proposes a single‐layer dual‐broadband circularly polarised (CP) antenna that operates at 2.4, 5.2 and 5.8 GHz for wireless local area networks (WLAN) applications. An annular‐slot antenna loaded with a lightning‐shaped slot for achieving good CP radiation in the WLAN 2.4 GHz band is initially studied. To cover the WLAN 5.2 GHz band as well, the inner circular patch of the aforementioned design is modified as an inner ring patch loaded with a notch and a narrow U‐shaped strip. By further embedding a crescent parasitic element into the circular slot of the inner ring patch, the upper CP band is significantly broadened to cover the WLAN 5.8 GHz. Accordingly, the final design can exhibit two wide 3 dB axial ratio bands of 13.3% (2.24–2.56 GHz) and 16.9% (5.01–5.94 GHz), and their corresponding 10 dB impedance bandwidths are 25.9% (2.21–2.86 GHz) and 25.9% (5.05–6.54 GHz). With the advantages of compact size, low‐cost, easy integration and dual‐broad CP bands, the proposed designs are very attractive for modern wireless communication systems, especially for WLAN applications.
Postpartum Retained Products of Conception: A Novel Approach to Follow-Up and Early Diagnosis
Authors: Smorgick Noam , Krakov Ayala , Maymon Ron , Betser Moshe , Tovbin Josef , Pansky Moty
Published: September 2017

Purpose To investigate whether ultrasound follow-up for the detection of postpartum retained products of conception (RPOC) in women considered at risk for this condition may allow for early diagnosis.

Methods Parturients at risk for RPOC underwent an ultrasound exam on the second postpartum day. Based on the ultrasound findings, women were either: (1) discharged to routine postpartum care in cases of normal scans, (2) invited for follow-up in cases of abnormal scans. We retrospectively analyzed the rates of women requiring uterine evacuation due to persistent abnormal scans.

Results 761 parturients (out of 17 010 deliveries, 4.5 %) were included. Of those, 490 (64.4 %) women had a normal initial scan, but two of them were later readmitted for uterine evacuation. The remaining 271 (35.6 %) women were found to have an abnormal scan: (a) thickened endometrium > 10 mm with hypo- and hyper-echoes and negative Doppler flow considered low suspicion for RPOC was described in 260 cases, of whom 23 (8.8 %) underwent uterine evacuation with placental remnants confirmed in 12/23 (52.2 %), and (b) an echogenic mass with positive Doppler flow considered high suspicion for RPOC was described in 11 cases, all of whom underwent uterine evacuation, with placental remnants confirmed in 9/11 (81.8 %). The number of scans required to detect RPOC in one patient was 33.

Conclusion Postpartum ultrasound evaluation may allow for early diagnosis of RPOC in women considered at risk for this condition.
Prenatal Diagnosis of Agenesis of Ductus Venosus: A Retrospective Study of Anatomic Variants, Associated Anomalies and Impact on Postnatal Outcome
Authors: Strizek Brigitte , Zamprakou Aikaterini , Gottschalk Ingo , Roethlisberger Maria , Hellmund Astrid , Müller Andreas , Gembruch Ulrich , Geipel Annegret , Berg Christoph
Published: September 2017

Purpose To assess the anatomic variants, associated anomalies and postnatal outcome of fetuses with a prenatally diagnosed agenesis of ductus venosus (ADV).

Materials and Methods Retrospective study of 119 cases with agenesis of ductus venosus diagnosed by prenatal ultrasound in two tertiary referral centers from 2006 to 2014. The type and location of the umbilical venous drainage site was noted. Charts were reviewed for associated structural or chromosomal anomalies, pregnancy outcome and postnatal course.

Results In 24 cases (20.2 %) ADV was an isolated finding, while 95 cases (79.8 %) had associated anomalies. We identified 84 cases (70.6 %) with intrahepatic and 35 cases (29.4 %) with extrahepatic drainage of the umbilical vein. 58.8 % of neonates were alive at follow-up. There was no statistical association between drainage site and associated anomalies or outcome. Postnatal outcome was determined by the presence and severity of associated anomalies. There was no adverse outcome in the isolated group related to ADV. Overall, there were 6 persistent portosystemic shunts, 3 of them with a spontaneous closure, and one total agenesis of the portal venous system with lethal outcome.

Conclusion Postnatal outcome in cases with ADV mainly depends on the presence of associated anomalies. In isolated cases the prognosis is generally good, but neonates with a prenatally diagnosed portosystemic shunt should be followed until its occlusion. Portal venous system agenesis is rare but should be ruled out on prenatal ultrasound.
Knochenmetastasen – Pathophysiologie, Diagnostik und Therapie (Teil 1)
Authors: Koob Sebastian , Kehrer Michael , Strauss Andreas , Janzen Viktor , Wirtz Dieter , Schmolders Jan
Published: September 2017

Maligne Neoplasien sind in Deutschland nach den kardiovaskulären Erkrankungen weiterhin die zweithäufigste Todesursache. Obwohl sich die 5-Jahres-Überlebensraten der meisten malignen Tumoren in Deutschland in den letzten 30 Jahren signifikant verbessert haben, gilt eine ossäre Metastasierung mit wenigen Ausnahmen weiterhin als Zeichen der Inkurabilität. Neben den seltenen primären Knochentumoren macht die Behandlung von ossären Absiedlungen von Karzinomen einen großen Teil der tumororthopädischen Tätigkeit aus, die zudem eine enge interdisziplinäre Abstimmung mit der inneren Medizin, Radiologie und der entsprechenden Fachdisziplin der zugrunde liegenden Entität erfordert. Durch die Fortschritte in der onkologischen Therapie des Primärtumors wird z. T. ein sehr langes Überleben erreicht, sodass das Management von SRE („skeletal related events“) auch bei palliativen Situationen an Relevanz gewinnt. Die vorliegende Übersichtsarbeit geht in ihrem 1. Teil auf der Grundlage einer aktuellen selektiven Literaturübersicht auf die zuvor erwähnten pathophysiologischen Zusammenhänge der ossären Metastasierung ein und stellt im Folgenden einzelne Diagnostika und deren Relevanz dar.
CT and MRI Techniques for Imaging Around Orthopedic Hardware
Authors: Do Thuy , Sutter Reto , Skornitzke Stephan , Weber Marc-André
Published: September 2017

Orthopedic hardware impairs image quality in cross-sectional imaging. With an increasing number of orthopedic implants in an aging population, the need to mitigate metal artifacts in computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging is becoming increasingly relevant. This review provides an overview of the major artifacts in CT and MRI and state-of-the-art solutions to improve image quality. All steps of image acquisition from device selection, scan preparations and parameters to image post-processing influence the magnitude of metal artifacts. Technological advances like dual-energy CT with the possibility of virtual monochromatic imaging (VMI) and new materials offer opportunities to further reduce artifacts in CT and MRI. Dedicated metal artifact reduction sequences contain algorithms to reduce artifacts and improve imaging of surrounding tissue and are essential tools in orthopedic imaging to detect postoperative complications in early stages.

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Cross Sectional Imaging of Solitary Lesions of the Neurocranium
Authors: Schäfer Max-Ludwig , Koch Arend , Streitparth Florian , Wiener Edzard
Published: September 2017

Background Although a wide range of processes along the neurocranium are of a benign nature, there are often difficulties in the differential diagnosis.

Method In the review CT/MRI scans of the head were evaluated retrospectively regarding solitary lesions along the neurocranium. The majority of the lesions were histologically proven.

Results The purpose of the review is to present typical pathologies of the neurocranium and provide a systematic overview based on 12 entities, their locations, prevalence and radiological characteristics.

Conclusion Processes, which primarily originate from the neurocranium have to be differentiated from secondary processes infiltrating the neurocranium. For this important diagnostic feature, MRI is typically essential, while the definitive diagnosis is often made on the basis of the medical history and the typical appearance on computer tomography.

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Das fetale Profil im ersten Trimenon – mehr als nur NT
Authors: Hoopmann Markus , Kagan Karl
Published: September 2017

Das midsagittale Profil stellt eine Schlüsselebene im Rahmen der sonografischen Ersttrimesterdiagnostik im Zeitraum 11 + 0 bis 13 + 6 SSW dar. Es handelt sich um die zurzeit am besten qualitätsgesicherte pränatale Bildeinstellung. Dem ursprünglichen Zweck der korrekten Messung der Nackentransparenz zur Risikoanalyse auf Aneuploidien konnten in den letzten Jahren zahlreiche zusätzliche Aspekte der fetalen Fehlbildungsdiagnostik hinzugefügt werden. So lassen sich aus dem fetalen Profil neben dem Risiko für Chromosomenstörungen Hinweise auf Neuralrohrdefekte, ZNS-Fehlbildungen insbesondere im Bereich der Fossa posterior und Gesichtsfehlbildungen wie eine Spaltbildung oder eine Retrogenie ableiten. Durch die zunehmende Neuorientierung des Ersttrimesterscreenings im Kontext der zellfreien fetalen DNA-Analyse erlangt die strukturelle Fehlbildungsdiagnostik ein besonderes Gewicht. Ziel der vorliegenden Übersichtsarbeit ist es, den aktuellen Stand zum diagnostischen Potenzial des midsagittalen Schnittbildes des fetalen Profils darzustellen.
Effects of Zinc Alpha2 Glycoprotein on Lipid Metabolism of Liver in High-Fat Diet-Induced Obese Mice
Authors: Fan Guoqiang , Qiao Yu , Gao Shixing , Guo Jun , Zhao Ruqian , Yang Xiaojing
Published: September 2017

Zinc alpha2 glycoprotein (ZAG) is a new type of adipokine involved in adipose tissue mobilization, however, little is known about its lipid metabolism effect in liver. Therefore, we investigated the effects of ZAG in the regulation of hepatic lipid accumulation. Mice were randomly divided into two groups; one was fed a normal diet and another was fed a high-fat diet for eight weeks to establish obesity model. After that, the normal diet group was divided into ND (injection of pcDNA3.1) and NDZ (injection of ZAG recombinant plasmid) and the high-fat diet group was divided into HF (injection of pcDNA3.1) and HFZ (injection of ZAG recombinant plasmid). The mice were weighed once per week and injected with plasmid once every three days for eight times. The results showed that body weight and hepatic TG content were decreased dramatically in HFZ group compared with HF group. The stearoyl-CoAdesaturase1 (SCD1) and Acyl-CoA Synthetase-1 (ACSS1) protein levels in HFZ group were significantly decreased. Furthermore, phosphorylated hormone sensitive lipase (P-HSL) was significantly higher in HFZ group. In HFZ group, hepatic fatty acid translocase (CD36) and fatty acids binding protein-1 (FABP1) protein levels were reduced. In addition, the expression of phosphorylated protein kinase A (PPKA) in HFZ group was higher than the HF group. Meanwhile, NDZ group showed significantly decreased body weight and increased P-HSL level though the hepatic TG content showed no significantly changes compared with the ND group. Therefore, we conclude that ZAG may be beneficial for preventing high-fat-diet-induced hepatic lipid metabolic disorders.
Nudged elastic band calculations accelerated with Gaussian process regression
Authors: Koistinen Olli-Pekka , Dagbjartsdóttir Freyja B. , Ásgeirsson Vilhjálmur , Vehtari Aki , Jónsson Hannes
Published: September 2017

Minimum energy paths for transitions such as atomic and/or spin rearrangements in thermalized systems are the transition paths of largest statistical weight. Such paths are frequently calculated using the nudged elastic band method, where an initial path is iteratively shifted to the nearest minimum energy path. The computational effort can be large, especially when ab initio or electron density functional calculations are used to evaluate the energy and atomic forces. Here, we show how the number of such evaluations can be reduced by an order of magnitude using a Gaussian process regression approach where an approximate energy surface is generated and refined in each iteration. When the goal is to evaluate the transition rate within harmonic transition state theory, the evaluation of the Hessian matrix at the initial and final state minima can be carried out beforehand and used as input in the minimum energy path calculation, thereby improving stability and reducing the number of iterations needed for convergence. A Gaussian process model also provides an uncertainty estimate for the approximate energy surface, and this can be used to focus the calculations on the lesser-known part of the path, thereby reducing the number of needed energy and force evaluations to a half in the present calculations. The methodology is illustrated using the two-dimensional Müller-Brown potential surface and performance assessed on an established benchmark involving 13 rearrangement transitions of a heptamer island on a solid surface.
A setup for measuring the Seebeck coefficient and the electrical resistivity of bulk thermoelectric materials
Authors: Fu Qiang , Xiong Yucheng , Zhang Wenhua , Xu Dongyan
Published: September 2017

This paper presents a setup for measuring the Seebeck coefficient and the electrical resistivity of bulk thermoelectric materials. The sample holder was designed to have a compact structure and can be directly mounted in a standard cryostat system for temperature-dependent measurements. For the Seebeck coefficient measurement, a thin bar-shaped sample is mounted bridging two copper bases; and two ceramic heaters are used to generate a temperature gradient along the sample. Two type T thermocouples are used to determine both temperature and voltage differences between two widely separated points on the sample. The thermocouple junction is flattened into a disk and pressed onto the sample surface by using a spring load. The flexible fixation method we adopted not only simplifies the sample mounting process but also prevents thermal contact deterioration due to the mismatch of thermal expansion coefficients between the sample and other parts. With certain modifications, the sample holder can also be used for four-probe electrical resistivity measurements. High temperature measurements are essential for thermoelectric power generation. The experimental system we developed is capable of measuring the Seebeck coefficient and the electrical resistivity of bulk thermoelectric materials in a wide temperature range from 80 to 500 K, which can be further extended to even higher temperatures. Measurements on two standard materials, constantan and nickel, confirmed the accuracy and the reliability of the system.
Flexible strain sensors with high performance based on metallic glass thin film
Authors: Xian H. J. , Cao C. R. , Shi J. A. , Zhu X. S. , Hu Y. C. , Huang Y. F. , Meng S. , Gu L. , Liu Y. H. , Bai H. Y. , Wang W. H.
Published: September 2017

Searching strain sensitive materials for electronic skin is of crucial significance because of the restrictions of current materials such as poor electrical conductivity, large energy consumption, complex manufacturing process, and high cost. Here, we report a flexible strain sensor based on the Zr55Cu30Ni5Al10 metallic glass thin film which we name metallic glass skin. The metallic glass skin, synthesized by ion beam deposition, exhibits piezoresistance effects with a gauge factor of around 2.86, a large detectable strain range (∼1% or 180° bending angle), and good conductivity. Compared to other e-skin materials, the temperature coefficient of resistance of the metallic glass skin is extremely low (9.04 × 10−6 K−1), which is essential for the reduction in thermal drift. In addition, the metallic glass skin exhibits distinct antibacterial behavior desired for medical applications, also excellent reproducibility and repeatability (over 1000 times), nearly perfect linearity, low manufacturing cost, and negligible energy consumption, all of which are required for electronic skin for practical applications.