bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Halo-free Phase Contrast Microscopy
Authors: Nguyen Tan H. , Kandel Mikhail , Shakir Haadi M. , Best-Popescu Catherine , Arikkath Jyothi , Do Minh N. , Popescu Gabriel
Published: March 2017

We present a new approach for retrieving halo-free phase contrast microscopy (hfPC) images by upgrading the conventional PC microscope with an external interferometric module, which generates sufficient data for reversing the halo artifact. Acquiring four independent intensity images, our approach first measures haloed phase maps of the sample. We solve for the halo-free sample transmission function by using a physical model of the image formation under partial spatial coherence. Using this halo-free sample transmission, we can numerically generate artifact-free PC images. Furthermore, this transmission can be further used to obtain quantitative information about the sample, e.g., the thickness with known refractive indices, dry mass of live cells during their cycles. We tested our hfPC method on various control samples, e.g., beads, pillars and validated its potential for biological investigation by imaging live HeLa cells, red blood cells, and neurons.
Noninvasive measurement of transdermal drug delivery by impedance spectroscopy
Authors: Arpaia Pasquale , Cesaro Umberto , Moccaldi Nicola
Published: March 2017

The effectiveness in transdermal delivery of skin permeation strategies (e.g., chemical enhancers, vesicular carrier systems, sonophoresis, iontophoresis, and electroporation) is poorly investigated outside of laboratory. In therapeutic application, the lack of recognized techniques for measuring the actually-released drug affects the scientific concept itself of dosage for topically- and transdermally-delivered drugs. Here we prove the suitability of impedance measurement for assessing the amount of drug penetrated into the skin after transdermal delivery. In particular, the measured amount of drug depends linearly on the impedance magnitude variation normalized to the pre-treated value. Three experimental campaigns, based on the electrical analysis of the biological tissue behavior due to the drug delivery, are reported: (i) laboratory emulation on eggplants, (ii) ex-vivo tests on pig ears, and finally (iii) in-vivo tests on human volunteers. Results point out that the amount of delivered drug can be assessed by reasonable metrological performance through a unique measurement of the impedance magnitude at one single frequency. In particular, in-vivo results point out sensitivity of 23 ml−1, repeatability of 0.3%, non-linearity of 3.3%, and accuracy of 5.7%. Finally, the measurement resolution of 0.20 ml is compatible with clinical administration standards.
Towards sub-nanometer real-space observation of spin and orbital magnetism at the Fe/MgO interface
Authors: Thersleff Thomas , Muto Shunsuke , Werwiński Mirosław , Spiegelberg Jakob , Kvashnin Yaroslav , Hjӧrvarsson Björgvin , Eriksson Olle , Rusz Ján , Leifer Klaus
Published: March 2017

While the performance of magnetic tunnel junctions based on metal/oxide interfaces is determined by hybridization, charge transfer, and magnetic properties at the interface, there are currently only limited experimental techniques with sufficient spatial resolution to directly observe these effects simultaneously in real-space. In this letter, we demonstrate an experimental method based on Electron Magnetic Circular Dichroism (EMCD) that will allow researchers to simultaneously map magnetic transitions and valency in real-space over interfacial cross-sections with sub-nanometer spatial resolution. We apply this method to an Fe/MgO bilayer system, observing a significant enhancement in the orbital to spin moment ratio that is strongly localized to the interfacial region. Through the use of first-principles calculations, multivariate statistical analysis, and Electron Energy-Loss Spectroscopy (EELS), we explore the extent to which this enhancement can be attributed to emergent magnetism due to structural confinement at the interface. We conclude that this method has the potential to directly visualize spin and orbital moments at buried interfaces in magnetic systems with unprecedented spatial resolution.
High Curie temperature and enhanced magnetoelectric properties of the laminated Li0.058(Na0.535K0.48)0.942NbO3/Co0.6 Zn0.4Fe1.7Mn0.3O4 composites
Authors: Yang Haibo , Zhang Jintao , Lin Ying , Wang Tong
Published: March 2017

Laminated magnetoelectric composites of Li0.058(Na0.535K0.48)0.942NbO3 (LKNN)/Co0.6Zn0.4Fe1.7Mn0.3O4 (CZFM) prepared by the conventional solid-state sintering method were investigated for their dielectric, magnetic, and magnetoelectric properties. The microstructure of the laminated composites indicates that the LKNN phase and CZFM phase can coexist in the composites. Compared with the particulate magnetoelectric composites, the laminated composites have better piezoelectric and magnetoelectric properties due to their higher resistances and lower leakage currents. The magnetoelectric behaviors lie on the relative mass ratio of LKNN phase and CZFM phase. The laminated composites possess a high Curie temperature (TC) of 463 °C, and the largest ME coefficient of 285 mV/cm Oe, which is the highest value for the lead-free bulk ceramic magnetoelectric composites so far.
Prevalence of ST1193 clone and IncI1/ST16 plasmid in E-coli isolates carrying blaCTX-M-55 gene from urinary tract infections patients in China
Authors: Xia Liang , Liu Yang , Xia Shu , Kudinha Timothy , Xiao Shu-nian , Zhong Nan-shan , Ren Guo-sheng , Zhuo Chao
Published: March 2017

To study molecular epidemiology of CTX-M-55-carrying Escherichia coli isolates from urinary tract infections (UTIs) in China. 111 blaCTX-M-55-positive E.coli isolates from UTIs patients in China were studied. Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) and multilocus sequence typing (MLST) were used to analyze the homologies among the strains. Conjugation experiments, S1nuclease PFGE and PCR analysis were performed to characterize plasmids harboring blaCTX-M-55 and their genetic environment. 111 isolates were clustered into 86 individual pulsotypes and three clusters by PFGE. Fifty-five (49.5%) of the isolates belonged to 8 STs. Most of the ST1193 isolates belonged to one PFGE cluster. Transconjugants (n = 45) derived from randomly selected blaCTX-M-55 donors (n = 58), were found to contain a single 90-kb conjugative plasmid, which mainly belonged to the IncI1 groups (34, 76%). Among the IncI1 plasmids, the blaCTX-M-55/IncI1/ST16 predominated (23/34, 68%). The blaTEM-1 and aac (3′)-II genes were frequently detected on the IncI1 plasmids, and the insertion of ISEcp1 or IS26 was observed at the 48 bp or 45 bp upstream of the start codon of blaCTX-M-55 gene. The dissemination of blaCTX-M-55 gene among E. coli UTI isolates, appeared to be due to both the major clonal lineage of ST1193 and the horizontal transfer of epidemic plasmid IncI1/ST16.
Contrasting influences of aerosols on cloud properties during deficient and abundant monsoon years
Authors: Patil Nitin , Dave Prashant , Venkataraman Chandra
Published: March 2017

Direct aerosol radiative forcing facilitates the onset of Indian monsoon rainfall, based on synoptic scale fast responses acting over timescales of days to a month. Here, we examine relationships between aerosols and coincident clouds over the Indian subcontinent, using observational data from 2000 to 2009, from the core monsoon region. Season mean and daily timescales were considered. The correlation analyses of cloud properties with aerosol optical depth revealed that deficient monsoon years were characterized by more frequent and larger decreases in cloud drop size and ice water path, but increases in cloud top pressure, with increases in aerosol abundance. The opposite was observed during abundant monsoon years. The correlations of greater aerosol abundance, with smaller cloud drop size, lower evidence of ice processes and shallower cloud height, during deficient rainfall years, imply cloud inhibition; while those with larger cloud drop size, greater ice processes and a greater cloud vertical extent, during abundant rainfall years, suggest cloud invigoration. The study establishes that continental aerosols over India alter cloud properties in diametrically opposite ways during contrasting monsoon years. The mechanisms underlying these effects need further analysis.
Redshifted Cherenkov Radiation for in vivo Imaging: Coupling Cherenkov Radiation Energy Transfer to multiple Förster Resonance Energy Transfers
Authors: Bernhard Yann , Collin Bertrand , Decréau Richard A.
Published: March 2017

Cherenkov Radiation (CR), this blue glow seen in nuclear reactors, is an optical light originating from energetic β-emitter radionuclides. CR emitter 90Y triggers a cascade of energy transfers in the presence of a mixed population of fluorophores (which each other match their respective absorption and emission maxima): Cherenkov Radiation Energy Transfer (CRET) first, followed by multiple Förster Resonance Energy transfers (FRET): CRET ratios were calculated to give a rough estimate of the transfer efficiency. While CR is blue-weighted (300–500 nm), such cascades of Energy Transfers allowed to get a) fluorescence emission up to 710 nm, which is beyond the main CR window and within the near-infrared (NIR) window where biological tissues are most transparent, b) to amplify this emission and boost the radiance on that window: EMT6-tumor bearing mice injected with both a radionuclide and a mixture of fluorophores having a good spectral overlap, were shown to have nearly a two-fold radiance boost (measured on a NIR window centered on the emission wavelength of the last fluorophore in the Energy Transfer cascade) compared to a tumor injected with the radionuclide only. Some CR embarked light source could be converted into a near-infrared radiation, where biological tissues are most transparent.
Simulating electric field interactions with polar molecules using spectroscopic databases
Authors: Owens Alec , Zak Emil J. , Chubb Katy L. , Yurchenko Sergei N. , Tennyson Jonathan , Yachmenev Andrey
Published: March 2017

Ro-vibrational Stark-associated phenomena of small polyatomic molecules are modelled using extensive spectroscopic data generated as part of the ExoMol project. The external field Hamiltonian is built from the computed ro-vibrational line list of the molecule in question. The Hamiltonian we propose is general and suitable for any polar molecule in the presence of an electric field. By exploiting precomputed data, the often prohibitively expensive computations associated with high accuracy simulations of molecule-field interactions are avoided. Applications to strong terahertz field-induced ro-vibrational dynamics of PH3 and NH3, and spontaneous emission data for optoelectrical Sisyphus cooling of H2CO and CH3Cl are discussed.
Meibomian Gland Dysfunction Correlates to the Tear Film Instability and Ocular Discomfort in Patients with Pterygium
Authors: Wu Huping , Lin Zhirong , Yang Fan , Fang Xie , Dong Nuo , Luo Shunrong , Shang Xumin , Li Wei , Liu Zuguo
Published: March 2017

Pterygium is a very common disease in an eye clinic characterized by a benign proliferation of local conjunctiva that often crosses the limber of cornea and extends into corneal surface. Variety of studies has showed that pterygium is able to result in ocular discomfort and the change of ocular surface environment, such as dry eye. However, the link between abnormal tear film function and pterygium is controversial. Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is a common cause of dry eye and ocular discomfort but is often neglected, which may be the missing link between dry eye and pterygium. In this study, our data firstly revealed increased abnormality of meibomian gland structure and function in pterygium patients, representing with increased abnormality of MGD parameters such as meibum expression (P < 0.001) and meibomian gland loss (P < 0.001). Besides, the scores of MGD severity in patients with progressive pterygium were higher than those in patients with resting pterygium. The correlation between MGD parameters and ocular discomfort as well as dry eye indexes is also established. These findings suggest that MGD correlates to the tear film instability and ocular discomfort in patients with pterygium.
Automated detection and enumeration of marine wildlife using unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and thermal imagery
Authors: Seymour A. C. , Dale J. , Hammill M. , Halpin P. N. , Johnston D. W.
Published: March 2017

Estimating animal populations is critical for wildlife management. Aerial surveys are used for generating population estimates, but can be hampered by cost, logistical complexity, and human risk. Additionally, human counts of organisms in aerial imagery can be tedious and subjective. Automated approaches show promise, but can be constrained by long setup times and difficulty discriminating animals in aggregations. We combine unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), thermal imagery and computer vision to improve traditional wildlife survey methods. During spring 2015, we flew fixed-wing UAS equipped with thermal sensors, imaging two grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) breeding colonies in eastern Canada. Human analysts counted and classified individual seals in imagery manually. Concurrently, an automated classification and detection algorithm discriminated seals based upon temperature, size, and shape of thermal signatures. Automated counts were within 95–98% of human estimates; at Saddle Island, the model estimated 894 seals compared to analyst counts of 913, and at Hay Island estimated 2188 seals compared to analysts’ 2311. The algorithm improves upon shortcomings of computer vision by effectively recognizing seals in aggregations while keeping model setup time minimal. Our study illustrates how UAS, thermal imagery, and automated detection can be combined to efficiently collect population data critical to wildlife management.
Dissociable diffusion MRI patterns of white matter microstructure and connectivity in Alzheimer’s disease spectrum
Authors: Doan Nhat Trung , Engvig Andreas , Persson Karin , Alnæs Dag , Kaufmann Tobias , Rokicki Jaroslav , Córdova-Palomera Aldo , Moberget Torgeir , Brækhus Anne , Barca Maria Lage , Engedal Knut , Andreassen Ole A. , Selbæk Geir , Westlye Lars T.
Published: March 2017

Recent efforts using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) have documented white matter (WM) alterations in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The full potential of whole-brain DTI, however, has not been fully exploited as studies have focused on individual microstructural indices independently. In patients with AD (n = 79), mild (MCI, n = 55) and subjective (SCI, n = 30) cognitive impairment, we applied linked independent component analysis (LICA) to model inter-subject variability across five complementary DTI measures (fractional anisotropy (FA), axial/radial/mean diffusivity, diffusion tensor mode), two crossing fiber measures estimated using a multi-compartment crossing-fiber model reflecting the volume fraction of the dominant (f1) and non-dominant (f2) diffusion orientation, and finally, connectivity density obtained from full-brain probabilistic tractography. The LICA component explaining the largest data variance was highly sensitive to disease severity (AD < MCI < SCI) and revealed widespread coordinated decreases in FA and f1 with increases in all diffusivity measures in AD. Additionally, it reflected regional coordinated decreases and increases in f2, mode and connectivity density, implicating bidirectional alterations of crossing fibers in the fornix, uncinate fasciculi, corpus callosum and major sensorimotor pathways. LICA yielded improved diagnostic classification performance compared to univariate region-of-interest features. Our results document coordinated WM microstructural and connectivity alterations in line with disease severity across the AD continuum.
Remarkably enhanced photovoltaic effects and first-principles calculations in neodymium doped BiFeO3
Authors: Peng Yi-Ting , Chiou Shan-Haw , Hsiao Ching-Hung , Ouyang Chuenhou , Tu Chi-Shun
Published: March 2017

Remarkably enhanced photovoltaic effects have been observed in the heterostructures of p-type A-site Nd3+-doped BiFeO3 (Bi0.9375Nd0.0625)FeO3 (or BFONd) polycrystalline ceramics and the n-type ITO thin film. The maximum power conversion is ~0.82%, which is larger than 0.015% in BiFeO3 (BFO) under blue-ultraviolet irradiation of wavelength λ = 405 nm. The current-voltage (I-V) characteristic curve suggests a p-n junction interface between the ITO thin film and BFO (or BFONd) ceramics. The band gaps calculated from first-principles for BFO and BFONd are respectively 2.25 eV and 2.23 eV, which are consistent with the experimental direct band gaps of 2.24 eV and 2.20 eV measured by optical transmission spectra. The reduction of the band gap in BFONd can be explained by the lower electronic Fermi level due to acceptor states revealed by first-principles calculations. The optical calculations show a larger absorption coefficient in BFONd than in BFO.
Epigenetic Regulation of Intronic Transgenes in Arabidopsis
Authors: Osabe Kenji , Harukawa Yoshiko , Miura Saori , Saze Hidetoshi
Published: March 2017

Defense mechanisms of plant genomes can epigenetically inactivate repetitive sequences and exogenous transgenes. Loss of mutant phenotypes in intronic T-DNA insertion lines by interaction with another T-DNA locus, termed T-DNA suppression, has been observed in Arabidopsis thaliana, although the molecular basis of establishment and maintenance of T-DNA suppression is poorly understood. Here we show that maintenance of T-DNA suppression requires heterochromatinisation of T-DNA sequences and the nuclear proteins, INCREASED IN BONSAI METHYLATION 2 (IBM2) and ENHANCED DOWNY MILDEW 2 (EDM2), which prevent ectopic 3′ end processing of mRNA in atypically long introns containing T-DNA sequences. Initiation of T-DNA suppression is mediated by the canonical RdDM pathway after hybridisation of two T-DNA strains, accompanied by DNA hypermethylation of T-DNA sequences in the F1 generation. Our results reveal the presence of a genome surveillance mechanism through genome hybridisation that masks repetitive DNAs intruding into transcription units.
Reconfigurable superconducting vortex pinning potential for magnetic disks in hybrid structures
Authors: Marchiori Estefani , Curran Peter J. , Kim Jangyong , Satchell Nathan , Burnell Gavin , Bending Simon J.
Published: March 2017

High resolution scanning Hall probe microscopy has been used to directly visualise the superconducting vortex behavior in hybrid structures consisting of a square array of micrometer-sized Py ferromagnetic disks covered by a superconducting Nb thin film. At remanence the disks exist in almost fully flux-closed magnetic vortex states, but the observed cloverleaf-like stray fields indicate the presence of weak in-plane anisotropy. Micromagnetic simulations suggest that the most likely origin is an unintentional shape anisotropy. We have studied the pinning of added free superconducting vortices as a function of the magnetisation state of the disks, and identified a range of different phenomena arising from competing energy contributions. We have also observed clear differences in the pinning landscape when the superconductor and the ferromagnet are electron ically coupled or insulated by a thin dielectric layer, with an indication of non-trivial vortex-vortex interactions. We demonstrate a complete reconfiguration of the vortex pinning potential when the magnetisation of the disks evolves from the vortex-like state to an onion-like one under an in-plane magnetic field. Our results are in good qualitative agreement with theoretical predictions and could form the basis of novel superconducting devices based on reconfigurable vortex pinning sites.
Acceleration of bone regeneration by activating Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway via lithium released from lithium chloride/calcium phosphate cement in osteoporosis
Authors: Li Li , Peng Xiaozhong , Qin Yongbao , Wang Renchong , Tang Jingli , Cui Xu , Wang Ting , Liu Wenlong , Pan Haobo , Li Bing
Published: March 2017

By virtue of its excellent bioactivity and osteoconductivity, calcium phosphate cement (CPC) has been applied extensively in bone engineering. Doping a trace element into CPC can change physical characteristics and enhance osteogenesis. The trace element lithium has been demonstrated to stimulate the proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts. We investigated the fracture-healing effect of osteoporotic defects with lithium-doped calcium phosphate cement (Li/CPC) and the underlying mechanism. Li/CPC bodies immersed in simulated body fluid converted gradually to hydroxyapatite. Li/CPC extracts stimulated the proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts upon release of lithium ions (Li+) at 25.35 ± 0.12 to 50.74 ± 0.13 mg/l through activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in vitro. We also examined the effect of locally administered Li+ on defects in rat tibia between CPC and Li/CPC in vivo. Micro-computed tomography and histological staining showed that Li/CPC had better osteogenesis by increasing bone mass and promoting repair in defects compared with CPC (P < 0.05). Li/CPC also showed better osteoconductivity and osseointegration. These findings suggest that local release of Li+ from Li/CPC may accelerate bone regeneration from injury through activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in osteoporosis.
Chemical Composition, Antioxidant, DNA Damage Protective, Cytotoxic and Antibacterial Activities of Cyperus rotundus Rhizomes Essential Oil against Foodborne Pathogens
Authors: Hu Qing-Ping , Cao Xin-Ming , Hao Dong-Lin , Zhang Liang-Liang
Published: March 2017

Cyperus rotundusL. (Cyperaceae) is a medicinal herb traditionally used to treat various clinical conditions at home. In this study, chemical composition ofCyperus rotundusrhizomes essential oil, andin vitroantioxidant, DNA damage protective and cytotoxic activities as well as antibacterial activity against foodborne pathogens were investigated. Results showed that α-cyperone (38.46%), cyperene (12.84%) and α-selinene (11.66%) were the major components of the essential oil. The essential oil had an excellent antioxidant activity, the protective effect against DNA damage, and cytotoxic effects on the human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cell, as well as antibacterial activity against several foodborne pathogens. These biological activities were dose-dependent, increasing with higher dosage in a certain concentration range. The antibacterial effects of essential oil were greater against Gram-positive bacteria as compared to Gram-negative bacteria, and the antibacterial effects were significantly influenced by incubation time and concentration. These results may provide biological evidence for the practical application of theC. rotundusrhizomes essential oil in food and pharmaceutical industries.
The Transmembrane Serine Protease HAT-like 4 Is Important for Epidermal Barrier Function to Prevent Body Fluid Loss
Authors: Zhang Zhiwei , Hu Yae , Yan Ruhong , Dong Liang , Jiang Yizhi , Zhou Zhichao , Liu Meng , Zhou Tiantian , Dong Ningzheng , Wu Qingyu
Published: March 2017

Membrane-bound proteases are essential for epidermal integrity. Human airway trypsin-like protease 4 (HAT-L4) is a type II transmembrane serine protease. Currently, its biochemical property, cellular distribution and physiological function remain unknown. Here we examined HAT-L4 expression and function in vitro and in vivo. In Western analysis, HAT-L4 expressed in transfected CHO cells appeared as a 48-kDa protein. Flow cytometry confirmed HAT-L4 expression on the cell surface with the expected membrane topology. RT-PCR and immunostaining experiments indicated that HAT-L4 was expressed in epithelial cells and exocrine glands in tissues including skin, esophagus, trachea, tongue, eye, bladder, testis and uterus. In the skin, HAT-L4 expression was abundant in keratinocytes and sebaceous glands. We generated HAT-L4 knockout mice by disrupting the Tmprss11f gene encoding HAT-L4. HAT-L4 knockout mice were viable and fertile. No defects were found in HAT-L4 knockout mice in hair growth, wound healing, water repulsion and body temperature regulation. Compared with wild-type controls, HAT-L4-deficient newborn mice had greater body fluid loss and higher mortality in a trans-epidermal body fluid loss test. In metabolic studies, HAT-L4-deficient adult mice drank water more frequently than wild-type controls did. These results indicate that HAT-L4 is important in epidermal barrier function to prevent body fluid loss.
Difference in diel mating time contributes to assortative mating between host plant-associated populations of Chilo suppressalis
Authors: Quan Wei-Li , Liu Wen , Zhou Rui-Qi , Chen Rong , Ma Wei-Hua , Lei Chao-Liang , Wang Xiao-Ping
Published: March 2017

Behavioral isolation in animals can be mediated by inherent mating preferences and assortative traits, such as divergence in the diel timing of mating activity. Although divergence in the diel mating time could, in principle, promote the reproductive isolation of sympatric, conspecific populations, there is currently no unequivocal evidence of this. We conducted different mate-choice experiments to investigate the contribution of differences in diel mating activity to the reproductive isolation of the rice and water-oat populations of Chilo suppressalis. The results show that inter-population difference in diel mating activity contributes to assortative mating in these populations. In the rice population, most mating activity occurred during the first half of the scotophase, whereas in the water-oat population virtually all mating activity was confined to the second half of the scotophase. However, when the photoperiod of individuals from the water-oat population was altered to more closely align their mating activity with that of the rice population, mate choice was random. We conclude that inter-population differences in diel mating time contribute to assortative mating, and thereby the partial reproductive isolation, of these host-associated populations of C. suppressalis.
Bivariate genomic analysis identifies a hidden locus associated with bacteria hypersensitive response in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Wang Biao , Li Zhuocheng , Xu Weilin , Feng Xiao , Wan Qianhui , Zan Yanjun , Sheng Sitong , Shen Xia
Published: March 2017

Multi-phenotype analysis has drawn increasing attention to high-throughput genomic studies, whereas only a few applications have justified the use of multivariate techniques. We applied a recently developed multi-trait analysis method on a small set of bacteria hypersensitive response phenotypes and identified a single novel locus missed by conventional single-trait genome-wide association studies. The detected locus harbors a minor allele that elevates the risk of leaf collapse response to the injection of avrRpm1-modified Pseudomonas syringae (P = 1.66e-08). Candidate gene AT3G32930 with in the detected region and its co-expressed genes showed significantly reduced expression after P. syringae interference. Our results again emphasize that multi-trait analysis should not be neglected in association studies, as the power of specific multi-trait genotype-phenotype maps might only be tractable when jointly considering multiple phenotypes.
Greater postprandial glucose excursions and inadequate nutrient intake in youth with type 1 diabetes and celiac disease
Authors: Pham-Short Anna , Donaghue Kim C , Ambler Geoffrey , Garnett Sarah , Craig Maria E.
Published: March 2017

The gluten free diet (GFD) has a high glycemic index and low-fiber content, which potentially influences glycemic excursions in type 1 diabetes (T1D) and celiac disease (CD). Participants in this case-control study of youth with T1D+CD (n = 10) and T1D only (n = 7) wore blinded continuous glucose monitoring systems for six days. Blood glucose levels (BGLs) were compared between groups for each meal, including pre-meal, peak, 2-hour postprandial and time-to-peak. Participants consumed a test-breakfast of GF cereal and milk for three days and kept weighed food diaries; nutrient intake was analyzed and compared to national recommendations. Youth with T1D+CD had shorter time-to-peak BGL (77 vs 89 mins, P = 0.03), higher peak (9.3 vs 7.3 mmol/L, P = 0.001) and higher postprandial BGLs than T1D (8.4 vs 7.0 mmol/L, P = 0.01), despite similar pre-meal BGLs (9.2 vs 8.6 mmol/L, P = 0.28). Regarding test breakfast, greater pre and post-meal BGL difference correlated with longer CD duration (R = 0.53, P = 0.01). Total energy and macronutrient intake didn’t differ between groups; however the majority of participants collectively had inadequate intake of calcium (76%), folate (71%) and fiber (53%), with excessive saturated fat (12%) and sodium (>2,000 mg/day). The GFD is associated with greater glycemic excursions and inadequate nutritional intake in youth with T1D+CD. Clinical management should address both glycemic variability and dietary quality.
Fully printable, strain-engineered electronic wrap for customizable soft electronics
Authors: Byun Junghwan , Lee Byeongmoon , Oh Eunho , Kim Hyunjong , Kim Sangwoo , Lee Seunghwan , Hong Yongtaek
Published: March 2017

Rapid growth of stretchable electronics stimulates broad uses in multidisciplinary fields as well as industrial applications. However, existing technologies are unsuitable for implementing versatile applications involving adaptable system design and functions in a cost/time-effective way because of vacuum-conditioned, lithographically-predefined processes. Here, we present a methodology for a fully printable, strain-engineered electronic wrap as a universal strategy which makes it more feasible to implement various stretchable electronic systems with customizable layouts and functions. The key aspects involve inkjet-printed rigid island (PRI)-based stretchable platform technology and corresponding printing-based automated electronic functionalization methodology, the combination of which provides fully printed, customized layouts of stretchable electronic systems with simplified process. Specifically, well-controlled contact line pinning effect of printed polymer solution enables the formation of PRIs with tunable thickness; and surface strain analysis on those PRIs leads to the optimized stability and device-to-island fill factor of strain-engineered electronic wraps. Moreover, core techniques of image-based automated pinpointing, surface-mountable device based electronic functionalizing, and one-step interconnection networking of PRIs enable customized circuit design and adaptable functionalities. To exhibit the universality of our approach, multiple types of practical applications ranging from self-computable digital logics to display and sensor system are demonstrated on skin in a customized form.
Late Neurosyphilis and Tertiary Syphilis in Guangdong Province, China: Results from a Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Tang Weiming , Huang Shujie , Chen Lei , Yang Ligang , Tucker Joseph D. , Zheng Heping , Yang Bin
Published: March 2017

Due to challenges in diagnosis and the need for complex laboratory tests, misdiagnosis of neurosyphilis and tertiary syphilis is common in China. We validated the diagnosis and examined the treatment of late neurosyphilis and tertiary syphilis in Guangdong Province, China. A cross-sectional study was conducted to collect data from late neurosyphilis and tertiary syphilis cases reported between 2009 and 2014 in Guangdong, China. Descriptive analysis, bivariate analyses and multiple logistic regressions were performed to determine the structural factors associated with correct diagnosis and standard treatment of late neurosyphilis and tertiary syphilis. Among the 3805 respondents (3805/3936, 96.7%), 1,837 (48.3%) met the misdiagnosed criteria. The misdiagnosis rate decreased over the study period (54.2% in 2009 and 41.8% in 2014). Only 27.1% and 24.9% of the correctly diagnosed late neurosyphilis and tertiary syphilis cases received standard treatment, respectively. Multiple logistic regression revealed that departments of dermatology or STDs [aOR = 3.24, 95% CI: 2.66–3.95], county or township level hospitals [aOR = 2.89, 95% CI: 2.14–3.89], and hospitals situated outside of Pearl River Delta area [aOR = 1.70, 95% CI: 1.46–1.97] had higher likelihood in misdiagnosis of neurosyphilis, compared to the reference groups. Targeted trainings for physicians and expanded syphilis screening services are urgently needed.
Oceanic Nickel Biogeochemistry and the Evolution of Nickel Use
Authors: Glass J. B. , Dupont C. L.
Published: March 2017

Nickel (Ni) catalyzes vital reactions in modern biogeochemical cycles, and it is likely that its role as a metal cofactor evolved in the early Archean when enhanced submarine volcanism supplied abundant Ni to seawater. This chapter provides a holistic summary of Ni ocean biogeochemistry and the diverse marine microorganisms that rely on Ni to catalyze globally important chemical reactions, from surface seawater to deep seafloor sediments to volcanic vents. We highlight poorly recognized Ni requirements for the carbon and nitrogen cycle, and provide a new compilation of the growth response of diverse microbial taxa to varying Ni concentrations in the context of changing ocean chemistry. Finally, we discuss current hypotheses for the co-evolution of Ni enzymes and seawater bioavailability over Earth history.
Nickel Glyoxalase I
Authors: Honek J. F.
Published: March 2017

The glyoxalase I and II enzymes partner to employ intracellular thiols to convert metabolically generated α-ketoaldehydes, such as cytotoxic methylglyoxal, into non-toxic d-hydroxyacids. The first enzyme of this detoxification system, glyoxalase I (Glo1), can be divided into two classes according to its metal activation profile. A Zn2+-activated class and a Ni2+-activated class have been identified. The Ni2+-activated Glo1 enzymes have been identified in microorganisms as well as in plants. Structural studies and recent protein engineering initiatives are providing unique insight into the factors contributing to the metal activation profiles of the Glo1 enzymes and, furthermore, are also providing new knowledge on the fundamental relationships between metalloenzyme structure and metal selectivity.
Nickel Metallochaperones: Structure, Function, and Nickel-Binding Properties
Authors: Xia Wei , Li Hongyan , Sun Hongzhe
Published: March 2017

Nickel-containing enzymes catalyze a series of important biochemical processes in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes. The maturation of the enzymes requires the proper assembly of the nickel-containing active sites, which involves a battery of nickel metallochaperones that exert metal delivery and storage functions. “Cross-talk” also exists between different nickel enzyme maturation processes. This chapter summarizes the updated knowledge about the nickel chaperones based on biochemical and structural biology research, and discusses the possible nickel delivery mechanisms.
Ab initio calculation of the attempt frequency of oxygen diffusion in pure and samarium doped ceria
Authors: Koettgen Julius , Zacherle Tobias , Grieshammer Steffen , Martin Manfred
Published: March 2017

Doping ceria with Sm increases the oxygen jump attempt frequency.
A theoretical insight into the formation mechanisms of C/N-ribonucleosides with pyrimidine and ribose
Authors: Wang Wenjuan , Huang Fang , Sun Chuanzhi , Liu Jianbiao , Sheng Xiehuang , Chen Dezhan
Published: March 2017

The detailed formation mechanisms of C/N-nucleoside and the chemical model of nucleobase which will be beneficial for the C–C glycosidic bond.
Interior-filled self-assemblies of tyrosyl bolaamphiphiles regulated by hydrogen bonds
Authors: Kwak Jinyoung , Nam Seung Soo , Cho Junghyun , Sim Eunji , Lee Sang-Yup
Published: March 2017

The self-assembly mechanism of tyrosyl bolaamphiphilic molecules was investigated by means of experiments and molecular modeling. Small intermediate aggregates of tyrosyl bolaamphiphiles produced at an early stage were further assembled to form unusual spherical interior-filled structures through hydrogen bonds.
Sulfonated polyaniline as a solid organocatalyst for dehydration of fructose into 5-hydroxymethylfurfural
Authors: Dai Jinhang , Zhu Liangfang , Tang Dianyong , Fu Xing , Tang Jinqiang , Guo Xiawei , Hu Changwei
Published: March 2017

Sulfonated polyaniline with mutually reactive sulfonic acid groups and amine/imine represents an organocatalyst for effective production of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) from carbohydrates in low-boiling solvents with complete restriction of HMF rehydration.
In vitro nasal mucosa gland-like structure formation on a chip
Authors: Na Kyuhwan , Lee Mingyu , Shin Hyun-Woo , Chung Seok
Published: March 2017

The emergence of microfluidic epithelial models using diverse types of cells within a physiologically relevant microenvironment has the potential to be a powerful tool for preclinical drug screening and pathophysiological studies.
A systematic reconstruction and constraint-based analysis of Leishmania donovani metabolic network: identification of potential antileishmanial drug targets
Authors: Sharma Mahesh , Shaikh Naeem , Yadav Shailendra , Singh Sushma , Garg Prabha
Published: March 2017

Development of constraint-based metabolic model forLeishmania donovaniBPK282A1 for drug target identification.
Predicting protein lysine phosphoglycerylation sites by hybridizing many sequence based features
Authors: Chen Qing-Yun , Tang Jijun , Du Pu-Feng
Published: March 2017

PhoglyPred is an algorithm that can computationally predict protein phosphoglycerylation sites using three different kinds of descriptors.
Thermochemical CO2 splitting using double perovskite-type Ba2Ca0.66Nb1.34−xFexO6−δ
Authors: Mulmi Suresh , Chen Haomin , Hassan Azfar , Marco Jose F. , Berry Frank J. , Sharif Farbod , Slater Peter R. , Roberts Edward P. L. , Adams Stefan , Thangadurai Venkataraman
Published: March 2017

Fe-doped double perovskite materials show promise for renewable-derived carbon-neutral fuel production at significantly lower temperatures than current systems.
High-performance nanocomposite membranes realized by efficient molecular sieving with CuBDC nanosheets
Authors: Yang Yanqin , Goh Kunli , Wang Rong , Bae Tae-Hyun
Published: March 2017

High performance CO2/CH4 separation membranes were realized by molecular sieving with a 2-D nanoporous material.
Dual-mode humidity detection using a lanthanide-based metal–organic framework: towards multifunctional humidity sensors
Authors: Gao Yuan , Jing Pengtao , Yan Ning , Hilbers Michiel , Zhang Hong , Rothenberg Gadi , Tanase Stefania
Published: March 2017

Combined photoluminescence and impedance spectroscopy studies show that a europium-based metal–organic framework behaves as a highly effective and reliable humidity sensor, enabling dual-mode humidity detection.
A self-assembled amphiphilic imidazolium-based ATP probe
Authors: Zhu Jiang-Hua , Yu Chuan , Chen Yong , Shin Jinwoo , Cao Qian-Yong , Kim Jong Seung
Published: March 2017

An amphiphilic imidazolium-based self-assembled probe forms aggregates and selectively recognizes aqueous ATP among other bioactive anions with a significant enhancement in fluorescence emission.
Below the 12-vertex: 10-vertex carborane anions as non-corrosive, halide free, electrolytes for rechargeable Mg batteries
Authors: McArthur Scott G. , Jay Rahul , Geng Linxiao , Guo Juchen , Lavallo Vincent
Published: March 2017

The synthesis and application of the first high voltage, non-corrosive, Mg battery electrolyte based on small carborane anions are reported. This electrolyte displays equal oxidative stability compared to its larger 12-vertex cousin, but is more cost effective to prepare.
A self-contained photoacid generator for super acid based on photochromic terarylene
Authors: Li Ruiji , Nakashima Takuya , Kawai Tsuyoshi
Published: March 2017

Super acid is efficiently released from a self-contained photoacid generator based on a triangle terarylene backbone upon photoinduced 6π-electrocyclization reactions.
Pd/Cu-catalyzed dual C–H bond carbonylation towards the synthesis of fluorazones
Authors: Liao Fan , Shi Renyi , Sha Yuchen , Xia Jianhui , Liao Weilin , Lei Aiwen
Published: March 2017

Pd catalyzed oxidative dual C–H bond activation/carbonylation still remains a great challenge due to the generation of by-products via C–C bond formation. Herein, we developed a straightforward Pd/Cu-catalyzed oxidative dual C–H bond carbonylation process to access biologically and pharmaceutically important fluorazones from easily available N-aryl pyrroles and CO utilizing O2 as the terminal oxidant.
Isoreticular covalent organic frameworks for hydrocarbon uptake and separation: the important role of monomer planarity
Authors: Dong Jinqiao , Wang Yuxiang , Liu Guoliang , Cheng Youdong , Zhao Dan
Published: March 2017

We report three isoreticular covalent organic frameworks (COFs) sharing identical two-dimensional layered structures but with different planarity of the building monomers, leading to various crystallinities, porosities and hydrocarbon uptake and separation performances.
Phonons spreading from laser-heated gold nanoparticle array accelerate diffusion of excitons in an underlying polythiophene thin film
Authors: Rais David , Menšík Miroslav , Paruzel Bartosz , Kurunthu Dharmalingam , Pfleger Jiří
Published: March 2017

Phonons emitted from laser-heated plasmonic Au nanoparticles caused an increased rate of mutual exciton annihilation observed in a transient absorption experiment.
Revisiting the (E + A) ⊗ (e + a) problems of polyatomic systems with trigonal symmetry: general expansions of their vibronic Hamiltonians
Authors: Zeng Tao , Seidu Issaka
Published: March 2017

In this work, we derive general expansions in vibrational coordinates for the (E + A) ⊗ (e + a) vibronic Hamiltonians of molecules with one and only one C3 axis.
Remarkable improvement in supercapacitor performance by sulfur introduction during a one-step synthesis of nickel hydroxide
Authors: Zhang Liuyang , Huang Tang Jiao , Gong Hao
Published: March 2017

The effect of sulfur to oxygen ratios on supercapacitor performance has been studied.
A theoretical study of complexes formed between cations and curved aromatic systems: electrostatics does not always control cation–π interaction
Authors: Carrazana-García Jorge A. , Cabaleiro-Lago Enrique M. , Rodríguez-Otero Jesús
Published: March 2017

Cation–π interactions in curved aromatic systems are not controlled by electrostatics; induction and dispersion dominate in most cases studied.
The elusive silica/water interface: isolated silanols under water as revealed by vibrational sum frequency spectroscopy
Authors: Dalstein Laetitia , Potapova Elizaveta , Tyrode Eric
Published: March 2017

Isolated surface silanols are unambiguously identified under water. They are found to be not easily deprotonated and their populations to be clearly dependent on the surface pre-treatment method.
Metal–organic and covalent organic frameworks as single-site catalysts
Authors: Rogge S. M. J. , Bavykina A. , Hajek J. , Garcia H. , Olivos-Suarez A. I. , Sepúlveda-Escribano A. , Vimont A. , Clet G. , Bazin P. , Kapteijn F. , Daturi M. , Ramos-Fernandez E. V. , Llabrés i Xamena F. X. , Van Speybroeck V. , Gascon J.
Published: March 2017

The potential of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) and covalent organic frameworks (COFs) as platforms for the development of heterogeneous single-site catalysts is reviewed thoroughly.
Enhanced electrocatalytic activity via phase transitions in strongly correlated SrRuO3thin films
Authors: Lee Sang A , Oh Seokjae , Hwang Jae-Yeol , Choi Minseok , Youn Chulmin , Kim Ji Woong , Chang Seo Hyoung , Woo Sungmin , Bae Jong-Seong , Park Sungkyun , Kim Young-Min , Lee Suyoun , Choi Taekjib , Kim Sung Wng , Choi Woo Seok
Published: March 2017

The electronic structure of a strongly correlated SrRuO3epitaxial thin film influences the electrocatalytic activity significantly.
Generic nature of long-range repulsion mechanism on a bulk insulator?
Authors: Neff J. L. , Richter A. , Söngen H. , Venturini C. , Gourdon A. , Bechstein R. , Kühnle A.
Published: March 2017

Dynamic atomic force microscopy measurements are reported that provide evidence for the presence of long-range repulsion in molecular self-assembly on a bulk insulator surface. We present the structures formed from four different benzoic acid derivatives on the (10.4) cleavage plane of calcite kept in ultra-high vacuum. These molecules have in common that they self-assemble into molecular stripes when deposited onto the surface held at room temperature. For all molecules tested, a detailed analysis of the stripe-to-stripe distance distribution reveals a clear deviation from what would be expected for randomly placed, non-interacting stripes (i.e., geometric distribution). When excluding kinetic effects during growth, this result gives evidence for a long-range repulsion mechanism acting during the assembly of these stripes. The fact that this finding is robust against changes in the molecular structure indicates a generic nature of the observed mechanism, implying a ubiquitous origin such as electrostatic repulsion. Finally, we discuss parameters that might affect the unambiguous observation of this generic repulsion under specific experimental conditions.
Solution-processed 2-dimensional hole-doped ionic graphene compounds
Authors: Kam Fong-Yu , Png Rui-Qi , Ang Mervin C. Y. , Kumar Pawan , Rubi Km , Mahendiran Ramanathan , Solomeshch Olga , Tessler Nir , Lim Geok-Kieng , Chua Lay-Lay , Ho Peter K. H.
Published: March 2017

Solution-based direct assembly of centimeter-square sizes of graphene–fluorofullerene multilayers with a tunable work function, up to 5.7 eV, and a remarkable chemical stability is demonstrated.
The structure and magnetism of mono- and di-nuclear Ni(ii) complexes derived from {N3O}-donor Schiff base ligands
Authors: Panja Anangamohan , Jana Narayan Ch. , Adak Sarmistha , Brandão Paula , Dlháň Lubor , Titiš Ján , Boča Roman
Published: March 2017

Some mononuclear and dinuclear Ni(ii) complexes with tetradentate Schiff base ligands exhibit zero-field splitting and ferromagnetic coupling, respectively.
Red fluorescence-magnetic resonance dual modality imaging applications of gadolinium containing carbon quantum dots with excitation independent emission
Authors: Gao Ai , Kang Yan-Fei , Yin Xue-Bo
Published: March 2017

Hybrid carbon quantum dots were prepared withp-phenylenediamine, diethylene triamine pentacetic acid, and Gd3+hydrothermally. Their excitation-independent red fluorescence and magnetic resonance dual-response was confirmed with zebrafish and mice as models.
Visible-light-induced living radical polymerization using in situ bromine-iodine transformation as an internal boost
Authors: Liu Xiaodong , Xu Qinghua , Zhang Lifen , Cheng Zhenping , Zhu Xiulin
Published: March 2017

A new visible-light-induced methodology, termed as “bromine-iodine transformation activated living radical polymerization”, was successfully established to build a “bridge” between ATRP and iodine-mediated LRP techniques.
Three novel transition metal complexes of 6-methyl-2-oxo-quinoline-3-carbaldehyde thiosemicarbazone: synthesis, crystal structure, cytotoxicity, and mechanism of action
Authors: Zou Bi-Qun , Lu Xing , Qin Qi-Pin , Bai Yu-Xia , Zhang Ye , Wang Meng , Liu Yan-Cheng , Chen Zhen-Feng , Liang Hong
Published: March 2017

Complex 1 was more selective for MGC80-3 tumor cells versus normal cells (HL-7702). Importantly, 1 triggered MGC80-3 cells apoptosis via a mitochondrial dysfunction pathway.
Structure and performance of a V2O5–WO3/TiO2–SiO2 catalyst derived from blast furnace slag (BFS) for DeNOx
Authors: Tran Tuyet-Suong , Yu Jian , Li Changming , Guo Feng , Zhang Yusheng , Xu Guangwen
Published: March 2017

The excellent DeNOx performances for a slag-based catalyst derived from its presence of proper amounts of Al2O3/Fe2O3/SO42− as the catalyst dopants or impurities from processing Ti-bearing BFS in making the catalyst.
Preparation of a reduced graphene oxide/SiO2/Fe3O4UV-curing material and its excellent microwave absorption properties
Authors: Xu Yingjie , Wang Qi , Cao Yunfeng , Wei Xianfu , Huang Beiqing
Published: March 2017

RGO/SiO2/Fe3O4UV-curing material with a large reflection loss and a wide absorption band.