bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel ruthenium complex with xanthoxylin induces S-phase arrest and causes ERK1/2-mediated apoptosis in HepG2 cells through a p53-independent pathway
Authors: de Carvalho Nanashara C. , Neves Sara P. , Dias Rosane B. , Valverde Ludmila de F. , Sales Caroline B. S. , Rocha Clarissa A. G. , Soares Milena B. P. , dos Santos Edjane R. , Oliveira Regina M. M. , Carlos Rose M. , Nogueira Paulo C. L. , Bezerra Daniel P.
Published: January 2018

Ruthenium-based compounds have gained great interest due to their potent cytotoxicity in cancer cells; however, much of their potential applications remain unexplored. In this paper, we report the synthesis of a novel ruthenium complex with xanthoxylin (RCX) and the investigation of its cellular and molecular action in human hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cells. We found that RCX exhibited a potent cytotoxic effect in a panel of cancer cell lines in monolayer cultures and in a 3D model of multicellular cancer spheroids formed from HepG2 cells. This compound is detected at a high concentration in the cell nuclei, induces DNA intercalation and inhibits DNA synthesis, arresting the cell cycle in the S-phase, which is followed by the activation of the caspase-mediated apoptosis pathway in HepG2 cells. Gene expression analysis revealed changes in the expression of genes related to cell cycle control, apoptosis and the MAPK pathway. In addition, RCX induced the phosphorylation of ERK1/2, and pretreatment with U-0126, an MEK inhibitor known to inhibit the activation of ERK1/2, prevented RCX-induced apoptosis. In contrast, pretreatment with a p53 inhibitor (cyclic pifithrin-α) did not prevent RCX-induced apoptosis, indicating the activation of a p53-independent apoptosis pathway. RCX also presented a potent in vivo antitumor effect in C.B-17 SCID mice engrafted with HepG2 cells. Altogether, these results indicate that RCX is a novel anticancer drug candidate.
Fused electron deficient semiconducting polymers for air stable electron transport
Authors: Onwubiko Ada , Yue Wan , Jellett Cameron , Xiao Mingfei , Chen Hung-Yang , Ravva Mahesh Kumar , Hanifi David A. , Knall Astrid-Caroline , Purushothaman Balaji , Nikolka Mark , Flores Jean-Charles , Salleo Alberto , Bredas Jean-Luc , Sirringhaus Henning , Hayoz Pascal , McCulloch Iain
Published: January 2018

Conventional semiconducting polymer synthesis typically involves transition metal-mediated coupling reactions that link aromatic units with single bonds along the backbone. Rotation around these bonds contributes to conformational and energetic disorder and therefore potentially limits charge delocalisation, whereas the use of transition metals presents difficulties for sustainability and application in biological environments. Here we show that a simple aldol condensation reaction can prepare polymers where double bonds lock-in a rigid backbone conformation, thus eliminating free rotation along the conjugated backbone. This polymerisation route requires neither organometallic monomers nor transition metal catalysts and offers a reliable design strategy to facilitate delocalisation of frontier molecular orbitals, elimination of energetic disorder arising from rotational torsion and allowing closer interchain electronic coupling. These characteristics are desirable for high charge carrier mobilities. Our polymers with a high electron affinity display long wavelength NIR absorption with air stable electron transport in solution processed organic thin film transistors.
Dual-band Circular Polarizer Based on Simultaneous Anisotropy and Chirality in Planar Metamaterial
Authors: Zhao Yizhe , Qing Anyong , Meng Yang , Song Zelin , Lin Chuan
Published: January 2018

Metamaterial of dual-square array is proposed to design a dual-band circular polarizer. The novel design of asymmetric unit cell and layout of duplicate arrays significantly enhances the coupling between electric and magnetic fields. Simulation and measurement results show that the polarizer presents wide angle circular dichroism and circular birefringence. Moreover, the polarization conversion of the proposed metamaterial changes with frequency, incident angle, and polarization of incident waves. The fundamental mechanism behind is concluded to be the angle-dependent chirality and dispersion of our novel design.
Structure and hydrogen bonding at the limits of liquid water stability
Authors: Cipcigan Flaviu , Sokhan Vlad , Martyna Glenn , Crain Jason
Published: January 2018

Liquid water exhibits unconventional behaviour across its wide range of stability – from its unusually high liquid-vapour critical point down to its melting point and below where it reaches a density maximum and exhibits negative thermal expansion allowing ice to float. Understanding the molecular underpinnings of these anomalies presents a challenge motivating the study of water for well over a century. Here we examine the molecular structure of liquid water across its range of stability, from mild supercooling to the negative pressure and high temperature regimes. We use a recently-developed, electronically-responsive model of water, constructed from gas-phase molecular properties and incorporating many-body, long-range interactions to all orders; as a result the model has been shown to have high transferability from ice to the supercritical regime. We report a link between the anomalous thermal expansion of water and the behaviour of its second coordination shell and an anomaly in hydrogen bonding, which persists throughout liquid water’s range of stability – from the high temperature limit of liquid water to its supercooled regime.
Adhesive Leaf Created by a Corona Discharge
Authors: Lee Wonseok , Son Jongsang , Kim Seonghyun , Yang Dongmin , Choi Seungyeop , Watanabe Rodrigo Akira , Hwang Kyo Seon , Lee Sang Woo , Lee Gyudo , Yoon Dae Sung
Published: January 2018

Here, we report a new concept of both the adhesive manner and material, named “adhesive leaf (AL),” based on the leaf of the plant Heteropanax fragrans. The treatment of the corona discharge on the leaf surface can cause the nano-/microdestruction of the leaf epidermis, resulting in an outward release of sap. The glucose-containing sap provided the AL with a unique ability to stick to various substrates such as steel, polypropylene, and glass. Moreover, we reveal that the AL adhesion strength depends on the AL size, as well as the corona-discharge intensity. Conventional adhesives, such as glue and bond, lose their adhesive property and leave dirty residues upon the removal of the attached material. Unlike the conventional methods, the AL is advantageous as it can be repeatedly attached and detached thoroughly until the sap liquid is exhausted; its adhesive ability is maintained for at least three weeks at room temperature. Our findings shed light on a new concept of a biodegradable adhesive material that is created by a simple surface treatment.
Downregulation of glutamic acid decarboxylase in Drosophila TDP-43-null brains provokes paralysis by affecting the organization of the neuromuscular synapses
Authors: Romano Giulia , Holodkov Nikola , Klima Raffaella , Grilli Federica , Guarnaccia Corrado , Nizzardo Monica , Rizzo Federica , Garcia Rodolfo , Feiguin Fabian
Published: January 2018

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects the motor system, comprised of motoneurons and associated glia. Accordingly, neuronal or glial defects in TDP-43 function provoke paralysis due to the degeneration of the neuromuscular synapses in Drosophila. To identify the responsible molecules and mechanisms, we performed a genome wide proteomic analysis to determine differences in protein expression between wild-type and TDP-43-minus fly heads. The data established that mutant insects presented reduced levels of the enzyme glutamic acid decarboxylase (Gad1) and increased concentrations of extracellular glutamate. Genetic rescue of Gad1 activity in neurons or glia was sufficient to recuperate flies locomotion, synaptic organization and glutamate levels. Analogous recovery was obtained by treating TDP-43-null flies with glutamate receptor antagonists demonstrating that Gad1 promotes synapses formation and prevents excitotoxicity. Similar suppression of TDP-43 provoked the downregulation of GAD67, the Gad1 homolog protein in human neuroblastoma cell lines and analogous modifications were observed in iPSC-derived motoneurons from patients carrying mutations in TDP-43, uncovering conserved pathological mechanisms behind the disease.
Foxj1 expressing ependymal cells do not contribute new cells to sites of injury or stroke in the mouse forebrain
Authors: Muthusamy Nagendran , Brumm Andrew , Zhang Xuying , Carmichael S. Thomas , Ghashghaei H. Troy
Published: January 2018

The stem cell source of neural and glial progenitors in the periventricular regions of the adult forebrain has remained uncertain and controversial. Using a cell specific genetic approach we rule out Foxj1+ ependymal cells as stem cells participating in neurogenesis and gliogenesis in response to acute injury or stroke in the mouse forebrain. Non stem- and progenitor-like responses of Foxj1+ ependymal cells to injury and stroke remain to be defined and investigated.
Distinctive expression of T cell guiding molecules in human autoimmune lymph node stromal cells upon TLR3 triggering
Authors: Hähnlein Janine S. , Ramwadhdoebe Tamara H. , Semmelink Johanna F. , Choi Ivy Y. , Berger Ferco H. , Maas Mario , Gerlag Danielle M. , Tak Paul P. , Geijtenbeek Teunis B. H. , van Baarsen Lisa G. M.
Published: January 2018

Infections are implicated in autoimmunity. Autoantibodies are produced in lymphoid tissue where lymph node stromal cells (LNSCs) regulate lymphocyte function. Infections can alter the interaction between LNSCs and lymphocytes resulting in defective immune responses. In rheumatoid arthritis (RA) autoantibody production precedes clinical disease allowing identification of at risk individuals. We investigated the ability of human LNSCs derived from RA, RA-risk and healthy individuals to sense and respond to pathogens. Human LNSCs cultured directly from freshly collected lymph node biopsies expressed TLR1-9 with exception of TLR7. In all donors TLR3 triggering induced expression of ISGs, IL-6 and adhesion molecules like VCAM-1 and ICAM-1. Strikingly, T cell guiding chemokines CCL19 and IL-8 as well as the antiviral gene MxA were less induced upon TLR3 triggering in autoimmune LNSCs. This observed decrease, found already in LNSCs of RA-risk individuals, may lead to incorrect positioning of lymphocytes and aberrant immune responses during viral infections.
An MCEM Framework for Drug Safety Signal Detection and Combination from Heterogeneous Real World Evidence
Authors: Xiao Cao , Li Ying , Baytas Inci M. , Zhou Jiayu , Wang Fei
Published: January 2018

Delayed drug safety insights can impact patients, pharmaceutical companies, and the whole society. Post-market drug safety surveillance plays a critical role in providing drug safety insights, where real world evidence such as spontaneous reporting systems (SRS) and a series of disproportional analysis serve as a cornerstone of proactive and predictive drug safety surveillance. However, they still face several challenges including concomitant drugs confounders, rare adverse drug reaction (ADR) detection, data bias, and the under-reporting issue. In this paper, we are developing a new framework that detects improved drug safety signals from multiple data sources via Monte Carlo Expectation-Maximization (MCEM) and signal combination. In MCEM procedure, we propose a new sampling approach to generate more accurate SRS signals for each ADR through iteratively down-weighting their associations with irrelevant drugs in case reports. While in signal combination step, we adopt Bayesian hierarchical model and propose a new summary statistic such that SRS signals can be combined with signals derived from other observational health data allowing for related signals to borrow statistical support with adjustment of data reliability. They combined effectively alleviate the concomitant confounders, data bias, rare ADR and under-reporting issues. Experimental results demonstrated the effectiveness and usefulness of the proposed framework.
Multiplane and Spectrally-Resolved Single Molecule Localization Microscopy with Industrial Grade CMOS cameras
Authors: Babcock Hazen P.
Published: January 2018

This work explores the use of industrial grade CMOS cameras for single molecule localization microscopy (SMLM). We show that industrial grade CMOS cameras approach the performance of scientific grade CMOS cameras at a fraction of the cost. This makes it more economically feasible to construct high-performance imaging systems with multiple cameras that are capable of a diversity of applications. In particular we demonstrate the use of industrial CMOS cameras for biplane, multiplane and spectrally resolved SMLM. We also provide open-source software for simultaneous control of multiple CMOS cameras and for the reduction of the movies that are acquired to super-resolution images.
PlanHab Study: Consequences of combined normobaric hypoxia and bed rest on adenosine kinetics
Authors: Strewe C. , Zeller R. , Feuerecker M. , Hoerl M. , Matzel S. , Kumprej I. , Crispin A. , Johannes B. , Debevec T. , Mekjavic I. B. , Eiken O. , Thiel M. , Schelling G. , Choukèr A.
Published: January 2018

Adenosine plays a role in the energy supply of cells and provokes differential, hormone-like functions in circulating cells and various tissues. Its release is importantly regulated by oxygen tension. This renders adenosine and its kinetics interesting to investigate in humans subjected to low oxygen conditions. Especially for space exploration scenarios, hypoxic conditions – together with reduced gravity - represent two foreseen living conditions when planning manned long-duration space missions or planetary habitats. The PlanHab study investigated microgravity through inactivity in bed rest and normobaric hypoxia to examine their independent or combined effect on adenosine and its kinetics. Healthy male subjects (n = 14) completed three 21-day interventions: hypoxic bed rest (HBR); hypoxic ambulatory confinement (HAMB); normoxic bed rest (NBR). The interventions were separated by 4 months. Our hypothesis of a hypoxia-triggered increase in adenosine was confirmed in HAMB but unexpectedly also in NBR. However, the highest adenosine levels were noted following HBR. Furthermore, the percentage of hemolysis was elevated in HBR whereas endothelial integrity markers stayed low in all three interventions. In summary, these data suggest that neocytolysis accounts for these effects while we could reduce evidence for microcirculatory changes.
A Low-Cost Palmtop High-Speed Capillary Electrophoresis Bioanalyzer with Laser Induced Fluorescence Detection
Authors: Pan Jian-Zhang , Fang Pan , Fang Xiao-Xia , Hu Ting-Ting , Fang Jin , Fang Qun
Published: January 2018

In this work, we developed a miniaturized palmtop high-speed capillary electrophoresis (CE) system integrating whole modules, including picoliter-scale sample injection, short capillary-based fast CE, high-voltage power supply, orthogonal laser induced fluorescence (LIF) detection, battery, system control, on-line data acquisition, processing, storage, and display modules. A strategy of minimalist miniaturization combining minimal system design and low-cost system construction was adopted to achieve the instrument miniaturization with extremely low cost, which is differing from the current microfabrication strategy used in most reported miniaturized CE systems. With such a strategy, the total size of the bioanalyzer was minimized to 90 × 75 × 77 mm (length × width × height) and the instrument cost was reduced to ca. $500, which demonstrated the smallest and lowest-cost CE instrument with LIF detection in so far reported systems. The present bioanalyzer also exhibited comparable analytical performances to previously-reported high-speed CE systems. A limit of detection of 1.02 nM sodium fluorescein was obtained. Fast separations were achieved for multiple types of samples as amino acids, amino acid enantiomers, DNA fragments, and proteins with high efficiency. We applied this instrument in colorectal cancer diagnosis for detecting KRAS mutation status by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method.
Comparison of focused cognitive training and portable “brain-games” on functional outcomes for vocational rehabilitation participants
Authors: Bell Morris D. , Laws Holly , Pittman Brian , Johannesen Jason K.
Published: January 2018

Cognitive remediation performed in a cognitive laboratory was compared with a sham control using portable brain games to study effects on vocational, neurocognitive, and functional outcomes for participants with psychotic disorders in vocational rehabilitation (VR). Seventy-seven participants (61% schizophrenia, 39% other psychosis) in transitional (45.5%) or supported employment (54.5%) were randomly assigned to 6 months of portable cognitive-games (CG) or cognitive remediation (CR) plus a weekly goal-setting group, and evaluated during training, post-training and at 12 months. Overall rates of employment did not differ significantly at 12-month follow-up; however, VR + CG attained employment more rapidly during training. A significant time by condition interaction favored VR + CR on Quality of Life Total Score and Instrumental Functioning over 12 months. Neurocognitive outcomes favored VR + CR, particularly on attention. Training hours related significantly to neurocognitive improvement regardless of condition. No differences were found in training adherence despite portability for VR + CG. Results indicate that VR + CR had significantly greater effect than VR + CG on neurocognition and community functioning, but not on employment outcome. Job attainment rates during the training period revealed a potential advantage for portable training raising new questions concerning how cognitive remediation can be most effectively integrated with VR.
Phase Coexistence and Kinetic Arrest in the Magnetostructural Transition of the Ordered Alloy FeRh
Authors: Keavney David J. , Choi Yongseong , Holt Martin V. , Uhlíř Vojtěch , Arena Dario , Fullerton Eric E. , Ryan Philip J. , Kim Jong-Woo
Published: January 2018

In materials where two or more ordering degrees of freedom are closely matched in their free energies, coupling between them, or multiferroic behavior can occur. These phenomena can produce a very rich phase behavior, as well as emergent phases that offer useful properties and opportunities to reveal novel phenomena in phase transitions. The ordered alloy FeRh undergoes an antiferromagnetic to ferromagnetic phase transition at ~375 K, which illustrates the interplay between structural and magnetic order mediated by a delicate energy balance between two configurations. We have examined this transition using a combination of high-resolution x-ray structural and magnetic imaging and comprehensive x-ray magnetic circular dichroism spectroscopy. We find that the transition proceeds via a defect-driven domain nucleation and growth mechanism, with significant return point memory in both the structural and magnetic domain configurations. The domains show evidence of inhibited growth after nucleation, resulting in a quasi-2nd order temperature behavior.
Edaphic characterization and plant zonation in the Qaidam Basin, Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Wang Xianjie , Kong Fanjing , Kong Weigang , Xu Wenning
Published: January 2018

This paper presents a study of edaphic characteristics and their relationship with plant distribution in the Qaidam Basin, Tibetan Plateau, and establishes a distribution model for plants in sandy gravel Gobi to dry salt lake areas. All of the communities in the study area were dominated by plants with strong saline-alkaline tolerance. In this area, salts appeared to migrate to the surface; the surface soil was striped, and the salt distribution varied from sandy gravel Gobi to dry salt lake areas. The salt composition mainly consisted of NaCl in the surface crust. In the subsurface layers, the salt composition was dominated by Ca2+, Cl− and SO42−. The type of vegetation at the study site can be divided into two categories: salt-tolerant vegetation and weakly salt-tolerant vegetation. The salt-tolerant vegetation is influenced by Na+, Cl−, and the salinity. The soil of these vegetation communities had a higher salt and Na+ concentration and a lower Ca2+ and K+ concentration. The weakly salt-tolerant vegetation is mainly affected by the Ca2+/Na+ and K+/Na+ ratios. Based on the above results, a vegetation distribution model for saline lakes on the inland plateau was established.
Efficient strategy for introducing large and multiple changes in plasmid DNA
Authors: Zeng Fanli , Zhang Suhua , Hao Zhimin , Duan Shixin , Meng Yanan , Li Pan , Dong Jingao , Lin Yibin
Published: January 2018

While the QuikChange site-directed mutagenesis method and its later modifications are extremely useful and simple, they suffer from several drawbacks. Here, we propose a new method, named LFEAP mutagenesis (Ligation of Fragment Ends After PCR) for creating various mutations in plasmid by leveraging three existing concepts: inverse PCR, single primer PCR, and sticky-end assembly. The first inverse PCR on the target plasmid yielded linearized DNA fragments with mutagenic ends, and a second single primer PCR resulted in complementary single-stranded DNA fragments with the addition of overhangs at the 5′ end of each strand. The resulting single strands were then annealed to produce double-stranded DNA with free 5′ single-stranded DNA tails. These products with compatible sticky ends were efficiently assembled into a circular, mutagenized plasmid. With this strategy, multiple simultaneous changes (up to 15) and mutations in large plasmids (up to 50 kb) were achieved with high efficiency and fidelity. LFEAP mutagenesis is a versatile method that offers significant advantages for introducing large and multiple changes in plasmid DNA.
Immunomodulatory capacity of the serotonin receptor 5-HT2B in a subset of human dendritic cells
Authors: Szabo Attila , Gogolak Peter , Koncz Gabor , Foldvari Zsofia , Pazmandi Kitti , Miltner Noemi , Poliska Szilard , Bacsi Attila , Djurovic Srdjan , Rajnavolgyi Eva
Published: January 2018

Serotonin is a monoamine neurotransmitter that signals through a wide array of receptors (5-HT1–7) many of which are also involved in immune processes. Dendritic cells (DCs) are crucial players in immune defense by bridging innate and adaptive immune responses via their vast repertoire of pattern recognition receptors and antigen-presenting capability. Although serotonin is known to influence immunity at many levels, cell type-specific expression and function of its receptors remains poorly understood. Here we aimed to study 5-HT1–7 expression and function in CD1a− and CD1a+ human monocyte-derived DCs (moDCs). We found that the 5-HT2B receptor-subtype is solely expressed by the inflammatory CD1a+ moDC subset. Specific 5-HT2B activation potently inhibited TLR2, TLR3, and TLR7/8-induced proinflammatory cytokine and chemokine (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8, IP-10, IL-12) but not type I interferon-β responses. 5-HT2B agonism also interfered with the polarization of CD1a+ moDC-primed CD4+ T cells towards inflammatory Th1 and Th17 effector lymphocytes. Here we report the subset-specific expression and immunomodulatory function of 5-HT2B in human moDCs. Our results expand the biological role of 5-HT2B which may act not only as a neurotransmitter receptor, but also as an important modulator of both innate and adaptive immune responses.
Formulation, evaluation and bioactive potential of Xylaria primorskensis terpenoid nanoparticles from its major compound xylaranic acid
Authors: Adnan Mohd , Patel Mitesh , Reddy Mandadi Narsimha , Alshammari Eyad
Published: January 2018

In recent years, fungi have been shown to produce a plethora of new bioactive secondary metabolites of interest, as new lead structures for medicinal and other pharmacological applications. The present investigation was carried out to study the pharmacological properties of a potent and major bioactive compound: xylaranic acid, which was obtained from Xylaria primorskensis (X. primorskensis) terpenoids in terms of antibacterial activity, antioxidant potential against DPPH & H2O2 radicals and anticancer activity against human lung cancer cells. Due to terpenoid nature, low water solubility and wretched bioavailability, its pharmacological use is limited. To overcome these drawbacks, a novel xylaranic acid silver nanoparticle system (AgNPs) is developed. In addition to improving its solubility and bioavailability, other advantageous pharmacological properties has been evaluated. Furthermore, enhanced anticancer activity of xylaranic acid and its AgNPs due to induced apoptosis were also confirmed by determining the expression levels of apoptosis regulatory genes p53, bcl-2 and caspase-3 via qRT PCR method. This is the first study developing the novel xylaranic acid silver nanoparticle system and enlightening its therapeutic significance with its improved physico-chemical properties and augmented bioactive potential.
The alpha7-nicotinic receptor contributes to gp120-induced neurotoxicity: implications in HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders
Authors: Capó-Vélez Coral M. , Morales-Vargas Bryan , García-González Aurian , Grajales-Reyes José G. , Delgado-Vélez Manuel , Madera Bismark , Báez-Pagán Carlos A. , Quesada Orestes , Lasalde-Dominicci José A.
Published: January 2018

Currently, there are no specific therapies to treat HIV-1 associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND). The HIV-1 envelope, gp120, induces neuropathological changes similar to those in HAND patients; furthermore, it triggers an upregulation of the α7-nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7-nAChR), facilitating intracellular calcium overload and neuronal cell death. Using a gp120IIIB-transgenic mouse (gp120-tgm) model, we demonstrate that α7-nAChRs are upregulated on striatal neurons. Activation of α7-nAChRs leads to an increase in both intracellular calcium and percentage of apoptotic cells, which can be abrogated by antagonizing the receptor, suggesting a role for α7-nAChRs in gp120-induced neurotoxicity. Moreover, we demonstrate for the first time that gp120-tgm have learning deficiencies on a striatum-dependent behavioral task. They also show locomotor deficiencies, which improved with α7-nAChR antagonists, further supporting a role for this receptor in gp120-induced neurotoxicity. Together, these results uncover a new mechanism through which gp120-induced modulation of α7-nAChRs in the striatum can contribute to HAND development.
Influence of Gd and Pr doping on the properties of ceria: texture, structure, redox behaviour and reactivity in CH4/H2O reactions in the presence of H2S
Authors: Florea M. , Postole G. , Matei-Rutkovska F. , Urda A. , Neaţu F. , Massin L. , Gelin P.
Published: January 2018

Resistance against thermal sintering, redox properties and catalytic activity in SMR over ceria can be tuned by doping/undoping.
Surface wipe and bulk sampling of household dust: arsenic exposure in Cornwall, UK
Authors: Middleton D. R. S. , Watts M. J. , Hamilton E. M. , Coe J. D. , Fletcher T. , Crabbe H. , Close R. , Leonardi G. S. , Polya D. A.
Published: January 2018

Dust elemental levels can be expressed as concentrations (bulk samples) or surface loadings (wipe samples).
Influence of nanoparticle inclusions on the performance of reverse osmosis membranes
Authors: Liu Yifan , Tan Jian , Choi Woongchul , Hsu Jui-Hung , Han Dong Suk , Han Arum , Abdel-Wahab Ahmed , Yu Choongho
Published: January 2018

The performance of reverse osmosis membranes whose selective layers were modified and/or coated by nanomaterials were comparatively and systematically studied.
What happens to the silver ions? – Silver thiocyanate nanoparticle formation in an artificial digestion
Authors: Kästner Claudia , Lampen Alfonso , Thünemann Andreas F.
Published: January 2018

An artificial digestion of silver nitrate characterized by SAXS/WAXS is reported. It is shown that AgSCN nanoparticles emerge from ionic silver in saliva and remain present during the entire digestion process.
Iron(ii)-catalyzed C-2 cyanomethylation of indoles and pyrroles via direct oxidative cross-dehydrogenative coupling with acetonitrile derivatives
Authors: Qiao Kai , Zhang Dong , Zhang Kai , Yuan Xin , Zheng Ming-Wei , Guo Tian-Fo , Fang Zheng , Wan Li , Guo Kai
Published: January 2018

A novel and efficient approach for the C(sp2)–H/C(sp3)–H oxidative coupling of indoles and pyrroles with acetonitrile derivatives was reported by using the Fe(ii) complex.
Structural diversity of six metal–organic frameworks from a rigid bisimidazole ligand and their adsorption of organic dyes
Authors: Liu Siyu , Guo Mingming , Guo Huadong , Sun Yingying , Guo Xianmin , Sun Shaowen , Alexandrov Eugeny V.
Published: January 2018

Six entangled coordination polymers from a bisimidazole ligand and versatile carboxylate acids have been synthesized and structurally characterized. Their adsorption behaviors to organic dyes have also been evaluated.
Hydrothermal synthesis of montmorillonite/hydrochar nanocomposites and application for 17β-estradiol and 17α-ethynylestradiol removal
Authors: Tian Si-rong , Liu Yun-guo , Liu Shao-bo , Zeng Guang-ming , Jiang Lu-hua , Tan Xiao-fei , Huang Xi-xian , Yin Zhi-hong , Liu Ni , Li Jiang
Published: January 2018

Montmorillonite/hydrochar (MMT/HC) with or without modification by KOH via hydrothermal carbonization process (HTC) were applied to remove 17β-estradiol (E2) and 17α-ethynylestradiol (EE2).
Enhanced capacitive deionization performance by an rGO–SnO2 nanocomposite modified carbon felt electrode
Authors: Sami Syed Kamran , Seo Jung Yong , Hyeon Suh-Eun , Shershah Md. Selim Arif , Yoo Pil-Jin , Chung Chan-Hwa
Published: January 2018

The rGO–SnO2 nano-composite with a significantly high-surface-area, greatly improves the electrosorption capacity and is proposed as a novel electrode for capacitive deionization applications.
A sensitive LSPR sensor based on glutathione-functionalized gold nanoparticles on a substrate for the detection of Pb2+ ions
Authors: Feng Bingbing , Zhu Rui , Xu Shouming , Chen Yu , Di Junwei
Published: January 2018

A plasmonic probe based on gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) on a solid substrate for the detection of Pb2+ was developed.
Continuous flow oxidation of benzylic and aliphatic alcohols using bleach: process improvement by precise pH adjustment in flow with CO2
Authors: Vanoye Laurent , Yehouenou Laurelle , Philippe Régis , de Bellefon Claude , Fongarland Pascal , Favre-Réguillon Alain
Published: January 2018

Commercial bleach neutralization using CO2 enhanced the oxidation rate of benzylic and aliphatic alcohols to their corresponding aldehydes and ketones.
Enhanced circular dichroism at elevated temperatures through complexation-induced transformation of a three-layer cyclophane with dualistic dynamic helicity
Authors: Katoono Ryo , Obara Yudai , Fujiwara Kenshu , Suzuki Takanori
Published: January 2018

Circular dichroism from a hydrogen-bonded complex of a three-layer cyclophane with dualistic dynamic helicity was enhanced at elevated temperatures.
NASICON LiM2(PO4)3 electrolyte (M = Zr) and electrode (M = Ti) materials for all solid-state Li-ion batteries with high total conductivity and low interfacial resistance
Authors: El-Shinawi Hany , Regoutz Anna , Payne David J. , Cussen Edmund J. , Corr Serena A.
Published: January 2018

All solid-state batteries based on NASICON-type LiM2(PO4)3 electrolyte phases are highly promising owing to their high ionic conductivities and chemical stabilities.
Low-dimensional Mo:BiVO4 photoanodes for enhanced photoelectrochemical activity
Authors: Huang Miaoyan , Bian Juncao , Xiong Wei , Huang Chao , Zhang Ruiqin
Published: January 2018

Vertically oriented pure BiVO4 and Mo-doped BiVO4 nanoworm array films with a diameter of about 100 nm were prepared using the pulsed laser deposition (PLD) technique.
Screening of point defects in methylammonium lead halides: a Monte Carlo study
Authors: Šimėnas Mantas , Banys Jūras , Tornau Evaldas E.
Published: January 2018

Monte Carlo study of point defect screening in methylammonium lead halides.
Molecular engineering of phosphacycle-based thermally activated delayed fluorescence materials for deep-blue OLEDs
Authors: Lee Jiyoung , Aizawa Naoya , Yasuda Takuma
Published: January 2018

Deep-blue thermally activated delayed fluorescence materials based on dibenzo-fused phosphacycles are developed.
3D printing of shape changing composites for constructing flexible paper-based photothermal bilayer actuators
Authors: Hua Dechuan , Zhang Xiaoqin , Ji Zhongying , Yan Changyou , Yu Bo , Li Yuandong , Wang Xiaolong , Zhou Feng
Published: January 2018

Paper-based bilayer actuators with excellent light-driven shape changing performance are achieved with 3D printing of a photothermal-responsive MWCNT–PLA composite on paper.
Screening for human urinary bladder carcinogens: two-year bioassay is unnecessary
Authors: Cohen Samuel M.
Published: January 2018

Screening for carcinogens in general, and for the urinary bladder specifically, traditionally involves a two-year bioassay in rodents, the results of which often do not have direct relevance to humans with respect to mode of action (MOA) and/or dose response.
Mechanically triggered composite stiffness tuning through thermodynamic relaxation (ST3R)
Authors: Chang Boyce S. , Tutika Ravi , Cutinho Joel , Oyola-Reynoso Stephanie , Chen Jiahao , Bartlett Michael D. , Thuo Martin M.
Published: January 2018

Mechanically triggered relaxation of metastable liquid metal is used to autonomously alter the stiffness of a polymer composite. This approach to smart responsive materials exploits distribution in thermodynamic potential to tune the response rate.
β-adrenoceptor activation increased VAMP-2 and syntaxin-4 in secretory granules are involved in protein secretion of submandibular gland through the PKA/F-actin pathway
Authors: Ding Chong , Cong Xin , Zhang Yan , Li Sheng-Lin , Wu Li-Ling , Yu Guang-Yan
Published: January 2018

Autologous submandibular gland transplantation is an effective treatment for severe dry eye syndrome. However, the protein secretion in transplanted gland is altered by a mechanism that remains to be elucidated. In the present study, we found that β1-adrenoceptor (β1-AR) and β2-AR expression and the phosphorylation of the downstream molecule protein kinase A (PKA) were elevated in transplanted submandibular glands obtained from epiphora patients. Synaptobrevin/vesicle-associated membrane protein 2 (VAMP-2) interacted with syntaxin-4 and actin in human submandibular gland. The contents of syntaxin-4 and actin interacting with VAMP-2 were increased in transplanted gland. Moreover, VAMP-2 and syntaxin-4 expression in the secretory granule fraction, and VAMP-2 expression in the membrane protein fraction were increased in isoproterenol-treated and transplanted glands. Isoproterenol increased F-actin polymerization in the apical and lateral regions of the cytoplasm in both control and transplanted glands. Inhibiting PKA activity and/or F-actin formation abolished the isoproterenol-enhanced expression of VAMP-2 and syntaxin-4 in the secretory granule fraction and the isoproterenol-enhanced expression of VAMP-2 in the membrane protein fraction. Taken together, these results indicate that the activation of β-ARs induces secretory granules and cell membrane fusion via the interaction of VAMP-2 and syntaxin-4 in a PKA- and F-actin-dependent manner in human submandibular gland. Up-regulated β-ARs might participate in altering protein secretion in transplanted submandibular gland by promoting the interaction of VAMP-2 with syntaxin-4.
β-Elemene inhibits the proliferation of primary human airway granulation fibroblasts by down-regulating canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway
Authors: Xue Cheng , Hong Ling-Ling , Lin Jun-Sheng , Yao Xiang-Yang , Wu Ding-Hui , Lin Xiao-Ping , Zhang Jia-Min , Zhang Xiao-Bin , Zeng Yi-Ming
Published: January 2018

Benign airway stenosis is a clinical challenge because of recurrent granulation tissues. Our previous study proved that a Chinese drug, β-elemene, could effectively inhibit the growth of fibroblasts cultured from hyperplastic human airway granulation tissues, which could slow down the progression of this disease. The purpose of the present study is to find out the mechanism for this effect. We cultured fibroblasts from normal human airway tissues and human airway granulation tissues. These cells were cultured with 160 μg/ml normal saline (NS), different doses of β-elemene, or 10 ng/ml canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway inhibitor (Dickkopf-1, DKK-1). The proliferation rate of cells and the expression of six molecules involved in canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway, Wnt3a, glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β), β-catenin, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), and Collagen I (Col-I), were measured. At last, we used canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway activator (LiCl) to further ascertain the mechanism of β-elemene. Canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway is activated in human airway granulation fibroblasts. β-Elemene didn’t affect normal human airway fibroblasts; however, it had a dose–responsive inhibitive effect on the proliferation and expression of Wnt3a, non-active GSK-3β, β-catenin, α-SMA, TGF-β, and Col-I of human airway granulation fibroblasts. More importantly, it had the same effect on the expression and nuclear translocation of active β-catenin. All these effects were similar to 10 ng/ml DKK-1 and could be attenuated by 10 mM LiCl. Thus, β-elemene inhibits the proliferation of primary human airway granulation fibroblasts by down-regulating canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway. This pathway is possibly a promising target to treat benign tracheobronchial stenosis.
State‐of‐the‐art on the protection of FACTS compensated high‐voltage transmission lines: a review
Authors: Biswas Sauvik , Nayak Paresh Kumar
Published: January 2018

In recent years, the inclusion of flexible AC transmission systems (FACTS)‐based compensating devices such as a thyristor‐controlled series capacitor (TCSC) and a unified power flow controller (UPFC) has been increased in high‐voltage power transmission systems due to numerous technical and economical benefits. However, the operation of such FACTS devices introduces harmonics and non‐linearity in power system and causes fast changes in line impedance. As a result, the most widely used fixed impedance setting based distance relaying scheme finds limitation in protecting such compensated lines. Significant research has been carried out in recent years to develop new algorithms and methods to address the problem. This paper presents a comprehensive review of recent developments in the protection of TCSC/UPFC compensated high‐voltage transmission lines. The relative merits and demerits of each of the available methods are also presented for comparison. Prior to detail review, the impact of TCSC/UPFC on distance protection is evaluated by using data generated through EMTDC/PSCAD on a 400 kV two‐bus test power system. This study can be useful to both academic researchers and practicing engineers to gain insight on the protection of FACTS compensated transmission lines and for further development of newer algorithms.
Super-luminous Type II supernovae powered by magnetars
Authors: Dessart Luc , Audit Edouard
Published: January 2018

Magnetar power is believed to be at the origin of numerous super-luminous supernovae (SNe) of Type Ic, arising from compact, hydrogen-deficient, Wolf-Rayet type stars. Here, we investigate the properties that magnetar power would have on standard-energy SNe associated with 15–20 M⊙ supergiant stars, either red (RSG; extended) or blue (BSG; more compact). We have used a combination of Eulerian gray radiation-hydrodynamics and non-LTE steady-state radiative transfer to study their dynamical, photometric, and spectroscopic properties. Adopting magnetar fields of 1, 3.5, 7 × 1014 G and rotational energies of 0.4, 1, and 3 × 1051 erg, we produce bolometric light curves with a broad maximum covering 50–150 d and a magnitude of 1043–1044 erg s−1. The spectra at maximum light are analogous to those of standard SNe II-P but bluer. Although the magnetar energy is channelled in equal proportion between SN kinetic energy and SN luminosity, the latter may be boosted by a factor of 10–100 compared to a standard SN II. This influence breaks the observed relation between brightness and ejecta expansion rate of standard Type II SNe. Magnetar energy injection also delays recombination and may even cause re-ionization, with a reversal in photospheric temperature and velocity. Depositing the magnetar energy in a narrow mass shell at the ejecta base leads to the formation of a dense shell at a few 1000 km s−1, which causes a light-curve bump at the end of the photospheric phase. Depositing this energy over a broad range of mass in the inner ejecta, to mimic the effect of multi-dimensional fluid instabilities, prevents the formation of a dense shell and produces an earlier-rising and smoother light curve. The magnetar influence on the SN radiation is generally not visible prior to 20–30 d, during which one may discern a BSG from a RSG progenitor. We propose a magnetar model for the super-luminous Type II SN OGLE-SN14-073.
Evolution of the Human Brain: the key roles of DHA (omega-3 fatty acid) and Δ6-desaturase gene
Authors: Majou Didier
Published: January 2018

The process of hominization involves an increase in brain size. The development of hominids’ cognitive capital up to the emergence ofHomo sapienswas due to interactive, iterative, and integrative coevolution, allowing positive selection. Although this depends on many factors, in this position paper we show three categories that stand out: gene mutations, food resources, and cognitive and behavioral stimulation.Australopithecusbenefited both from the inactivation of theGULOanduricasegenes and from bipedalism causing the cognitive capital of theHomo genus to develop advantageously. This evolution depended on two factors. Firstly, a triggering factor: gradual climate change.Homostarted to regularly consume meat in addition to plants and insects. Secondly, a stimulating factor: mutations in theFADS2gene, which encodes Δ6-desaturase; a key enzyme for the synthesis of DHA and sapienic acid. The polymorphism of this gene appears to have been essential in allowing theHomo genus to adapt to its food, and for its evolution. It provides an undeniable advantage in terms of the productivity of fat synthesis (DHA), and may partly explain positive selection. With the advent of cooking and new mutations producing even moreFADS2, the brain reached its maximum size inHomo neanderthalensis, in a food ecosystem that provided favorable quantities of α-Linolenic acid and DHA. However, the Würm glaciation upset this equilibrium, revealing its fragility as regards to the brain and fertility.Homo sapiens, benefiting from new variants of theFADS2gene, were able to adapt to this harsh environment, whereas Neanderthal man was unable to do so and became extinct.
Thiocyanation of Pyrazoles Using KSCN/K2S2O8 Combination
Authors: Songsichan T. , Katrun P. , Khaikate O. , Soorukram D. , Pohmakotr M. , Reutrakul V. , Kuhakarn C.
Published: January 2018

A convenient and practical thiocyanation of pyrazoles is reported employing a combination of KSCN and K2S2O8 in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). The salient features of the present reaction include environmentally benign reagents and solvents, and simple operation. The reaction shows wide functional group tolerance and gives moderate to excellent yields.
Lymphatic Venous Anastomosis Can Release the Lymphedema-Associated Pain of Upper Limb after Breast Cancer Treatment
Authors: Mihara Makoto , Hara Hisako , Zhou Han , Tange Shuichi , Kikuchi Kazuki , Kawakami Yoshihisa
Published: January 2018

Background Sometimes, chronic pain in the arm or chest could occur in postmastectomy patients. Although the pathology of the pain is unclear, the involvement of neurological mechanism, cicatricial contracture, or lymphedema is considered. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA) in reducing chronic pain in upper limb lymphedema patients.

Patients and Methods This prospective study included consecutive 13 patients with upper limb lymphedema who received LVA. Preoperative lymphoscintigraphy and indocyanine green lymphography were performed. Pre- and postoperative pain scale were recorded using the visual analog scale (VAS). The number of cellulitis 1 year before and after LVA were compared. LVA was performed under local anesthesia, using a surgical microscope, and 12–0 nylon suture was used in the anastomosis.

Results Two out of 13 patients were excluded from this study, and 11 patients were subjected to this study. All subjects were females with an average age of 64.3 years. The average lymphedema duration was 76.7 months. The average number of LVA sites was 5.7 per limb and the average follow-up period was 10.6 months. The average pre- and postoperative VAS scores were 3.5 and 0.59, respectively; the significant decrease was observed (p = 0.017). Three of the patients who had experienced cellulitis (once, twice, and four times, respectively) did not develop any cellulitis after LVA.

Conclusion LVA was shown to be an effective surgical remedy for treating the lymphedema-associated pain of upper limb after breast cancer treatment.
Selbstbestimmung in der medizinischen Rehabilitation – Erstellung eines konzeptuellen Modells zur weiteren theoretischen Diskussion
Authors: Senin Tatjana , Meyer Thorsten
Published: January 2018

Ziel Ziel war es, theoretisches Wissen zur Selbstbestimmung zusammenzutragen und ein konzeptuelles Modell für die medizinische Rehabilitation zu erstellen, welches als Diskussionsgrundlage dienen soll.

Methodik Es wurde eine Literaturrecherche in elektronischen Datenbanken durchgeführt. Verschiedene Theorien und Forschungsergebnisse wurden rezipiert, auf den Kontext der medizinischen Rehabilitation übertragen und in ein konzeptuelles Modell überführt.

Ergebnisse Das konzeptuelle Modell der Selbstbestimmung bildet auf einem Kontinuum ab, welche Ausprägungen von Selbstbestimmung in Situationen der medizinischen Rehabilitationsbehandlung vorliegen können. Die Lokalisation auf dem Kontinuum hängt aus theoretischer Perspektive von der Ausprägung bestimmter interner und externer Faktoren ab, die sich wechselseitig beeinflussen können.

Schlussfolgerung Das Modell bietet eine erste Konzeptualisierung von Selbstbestimmung im Kontext der medizinischen Rehabilitation, die weiter ausdifferenziert und empirisch überprüft werden muss.
Stress induced modulation of magnetic domain diffraction of single crystalline yttrium iron garnet
Authors: Mito Shinichiro , Yoshihara Yuki , Takagi Hiroyuki , Inoue Mitsuteru
Published: January 2018

Stress induced modulation of the diffraction angle and efficiency of the light reflected from a stripe-domain magnetic garnet was demonstrated. The spacing of the magnetic domain was changed using the inverse magnetostriction effect. The sample structure was a piezo actuator/Al reflection layer/magnetic garnet substrate. A diffraction angle between the 0th and 1st ordered light was changed from 9.12 deg. to 10.20 deg. This result indicates that the domain spacing was changed from 3.3 μm to 3.0 μm. The change of the diffraction angle was irreversible for the voltage. However, reversible, linear and continuous change of the diffraction efficiency was observed. These results could be applicable for a voltage-driven optical solid state light deflector with low power consumption and high switching speed.