bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in Spinal Alignment following eXtreme Lateral Interbody Fusion Alone in Patients with Adult Spinal Deformity using Computed Tomography
Authors: Hiyama Akihiko , Katoh Hiroyuki , Sakai Daisuke , Sato Masato , Tanaka Masahiro , Nukaga Tadashi , Watanabe Masahiko
Published: August 2019

This study examined the ability of the extreme lateral interbody fusion (XLIF) procedure to restore coronal and sagittal alignments for patients with adult spinal deformity (ASD) using computed tomography multiplanar reconstruction (CT-MPR). Thirty-eight patients with ASD undergoing correction and fixation with XLIF at 114 levels were studied. The coronal segmental Cobb angle, coronal regional Cobb angle (L1-5), sagittal segmental Cobb angle, sagittal regional Cobb angle (L1-5), intervertebral disc height and, vertebral body rotation (VBR) were measured before and after of XLIF surgery using CT-MPR. The mean sagittal segmental Cobb angle, the coronal segmental Cobb angle and VBR were corrected from 5.0° to 9.0°, from 6.3° to 4.3° and from 12.2° to 10.8°, respectively. The mean of the intervertebral disc heights increased significantly from 6.0 mm to 10.4 mm postoperatively. Although increases in coronal segmental Cobb, sagittal segmental Cobb, and intervertebral disc height at each level were significant, there were no significant differences in each parameter acquired by spine levels. The results also showed that it was difficult for L4/5 level to obtain the most postoperative coronal Cobb, sagittal Cobb and intervertebral disc height. This study evaluated the alignment improvement effect of stand-alone XLIF in ASD patients using CT-MPR. For the lower lumbar spine, it is difficult to obtain a lordosis more than 10 degrees with stand-alone XLIF for correcting ASD. Therefore, it is thought that correction such as osteotomy or compression technique to the posterior fusion may be necessary during the 2nd stage surgery.
Understanding the Effect of Surface Machining on the YSZ/Ti6Al4V Joint via Image Based Modelling
Authors: Li Chun , Si Xiaoqing , Dai Xiangyu , Zhang Xun , Chen Ying , Qi Junlei , Dong Zhibo , Feng Jicai , Cao Jian
Published: August 2019

A method to improve the brazing between YSZ and Ti6Al4V by femtosecond laser surface machining is introduced. The highest strength of ~150 MPa (which is 95.2% higher than that of the flat YSZ/Ti6Al4V joint) is achieved when the processing speed is 200 μm/s. To understand the strengthen mechanism of the surface machining on the joint strength, image based models, based on the observed microstructure, have been used to probe the stress distribution in the joint. It is found that through surface machining on the ceramic, the residual stress distribution in ceramic becomes nonlinear. Upon shear testing, for the joint with a flat interface, the failure happens in the reaction layer and the out of plane stress in this layer is found to be tensile, which acts as the driving force for the crack generation and propagation. But for the joint with a rumpled interface, the compressive out of plane stress at the boundary of the grooves in the reaction layer could inhibit the propagation of the cracks. Finally, by surface machining on the ceramic, the maximum shear stress in the reaction layer is decreased, which could also help to improve the reliability of the joint.
Analysis of the hump phenomenon and needle defect states formed by driving stress in the oxide semiconductor
Authors: Lee Hyeon-Jun , Abe Katsumi , Noh Hee Yeon , Kim June-Seo , Lee Hyunki , Lee Myoung-Jae
Published: August 2019

The reduction in current ability accompanied by the hump phenomenon in oxide semiconductor thin-film transistors to which high DC voltages and AC drive voltages are applied has not been studied extensively, although it is a significant bottleneck in the manufacture of integrated circuits. Here, we report on the origin of the hump and current drop in reliability tests caused by the degradation in the oxide semiconductor during a circuit driving test. The hump phenomenon and current drop according to two different driving stresses were verified. Through a numerical computational simulation, we confirmed that this issue can be caused by an additional “needle”, a shallow (~0.2 eV) and narrow (<0.1 eV), defect state near the conduction band minimum (CBM). This is also discussed in terms of the dual current path caused by leakage current in the channel edge.
The p21 dependent G2 arrest of the cell cycle in epithelial tubular cells links to the early stage of renal fibrosis
Authors: Koyano Takayuki , Namba Masumi , Kobayashi Tomoe , Nakakuni Kyomi , Nakano Daisuke , Fukushima Masaki , Nishiyama Akira , Matsuyama Makoto
Published: August 2019

Renal fibrosis is accompanied by the progression of chronic kidney disease. Despite a number of past and ongoing studies, our understanding of the underlying mechanisms remains elusive. Here we explored the progression of renal fibrosis using a mouse model of unilateral ureter obstruction. We found that in the initial stage of damage, where extracellular matrix was not yet deposited, proximal tubular cells arrested at G2 of the cell cycle. Further analyses indicated that the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p21 is partially involved in the G2 arrest after the damage. A newly produced monoclonal antibody against p21 revealed that levels of p21 were sharply upregulated in response to the damage during the initial stage but dropped toward the later stage. To investigate the requirement of p21 for the progression of renal fibrosis, we constructed the novel p21 deficient mice by i-GONAD method. Compared with wild-type mice, p21 deficient mice showed exacerbation of the fibrosis. Thus we propose that during the initial stage of the renal damage, tubular cells arrest in G2 partially depending on p21, thereby safeguarding kidney functions.
Mitochondrial 2,4-dienoyl-CoA reductase (Decr) deficiency and impairment of thermogenesis in mouse brown adipose tissue
Authors: Mäkelä Anne M. , Hohtola Esa , Miinalainen Ilkka J. , Autio Joonas A. , Schmitz Werner , Niemi Kalle J. , Hiltunen J. Kalervo , Autio Kaija J.
Published: August 2019

A large number of studies have demonstrated significance of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) for human health. However, many aspects on signals translating PUFA-sensing into body homeostasis have remained enigmatic. To shed light on PUFA physiology, we have generated a mouse line defective in mitochondrial dienoyl-CoA reductase (Decr), which is a key enzyme required for β-oxidation of PUFAs. Previously, we have shown that these mice, whose oxidation of saturated fatty acid is intact but break-down of unsaturated fatty acids is blunted, develop severe hypoglycemia during metabolic stresses and fatal hypothermia upon acute cold challenge. In the current work, indirect calorimetry and thermography suggested that cold intolerance of Decr−/− mice is due to failure in maintaining appropriate heat production at least partly due to failure of brown adipose tissue (BAT) thermogenesis. Magnetic resonance imaging, electron microscopy, mass spectrometry and biochemical analysis showed attenuation in activation of lipolysis despite of functional NE-signaling and inappropriate expression of genes contributing to thermogenesis in iBAT when the Decr−/− mice were exposed to cold. We hypothesize that the failure in turning on BAT thermogenesis occurs due to accumulation of unsaturated long-chain fatty acids or their metabolites in Decr−/− mice BAT suppressing down-stream propagation of NE-signaling.
Comparative Tyramide-FISH mapping of the genes controlling flavor and bulb color in Allium species revealed an altered gene order
Authors: Khrustaleva Ludmila , Kudryavtseva Natalia , Romanov Dmitry , Ermolaev Aleksey , Kirov Ilya
Published: August 2019

Evolutionarily related species often share a common order of genes along homeologous chromosomes. Here we report the collinearity disruption of genes located on homeologous chromosome 4 in Allium species. Ultra-sensitive fluorescence in situ hybridization with tyramide signal amplification (tyr-FISH) allowed the visualization of the alliinase multigene family, chalcon synthase gene and EST markers on Allium cepa and Allium fistulosum chromosomes. In A. cepa, bulb alliinase, root alliinase (ALL1) and chalcon synthase (CHS-B) genes were located in the long arm but EST markers (API18 and ACM082) were located in the short arm. In A. fistulosum, all the visualized genes and markers were located in the short arm. Moreover, root alliinase genes (ALL1 and AOB249) showed contrast patterns in number of loci. We suppose that the altered order of the genes/markers is the result of a large pericentric inversion. To get insight into the evolution of the chromosome rearrangement, we mapped the bulb alliinase gene in phylogenetically close and distant species. In the taxonomic clade including A. fistulosum, A. altaicum, A. oschaninii and A. pskemense and in phylogenetically distant species A. roylei and A. nutans, the bulb alliinase gene was located on the short arm of chromosome 4 while, in A. cepa and A. schoenoprasum, the bulb alliinase gene was located on the long arm of chromosome 4. These results have encouraging implications for the further tracing of inverted regions in meiosis of interspecific hybrids and studding chromosome evolution. Also, this finding may have a practical benefit as closely related species are actively used for improving onion crop stock.
The Low Toxicity of Graphene Quantum Dots is Reflected by Marginal Gene Expression Changes of Primary Human Hematopoietic Stem Cells
Authors: Fasbender Stefan , Zimmermann Lisa , Cadeddu Ron-Patrick , Luysberg Martina , Moll Bastian , Janiak Christoph , Heinzel Thomas , Haas Rainer
Published: August 2019

Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) are a promising next generation nanomaterial with manifold biomedical applications. For real world applications, comprehensive studies on their influence on the functionality of primary human cells are mandatory. Here, we report the effects of GQDs on the transcriptome of CD34+hematopoietic stem cells after an incubation time of 36 hours. Of the 20 800 recorded gene expressions, only one, namely the selenoprotein W, 1, is changed by the GQDs in direct comparison to CD34+hematopoietic stem cells cultivated without GQDs. Only a meta analysis reveals that the expression of 1171 genes is weakly affected, taking into account the more prominent changes just by the cell culture. Eight corresponding, weakly affected signaling pathways are identified, which include, but are not limited to, the triggering of apoptosis. These results suggest that GQDs with sizes in the range of a few nanometers hardly influence the CD34+cells on the transcriptome level after 36 h of incubation, thereby demonstrating their high usability forin vivostudies, such as fluorescence labeling or delivery protocols, without strong effects on the functional status of the cells.
Tunable Whispering Gallery Mode Photonic Device Based on Microstructured Optical Fiber with Internal Electrodes
Authors: Muñoz-Hernández Tatiana , Reyes-Vera Erick , Torres Pedro
Published: August 2019

We propose and experimentally demonstrate the first tunable whispering gallery mode (WGM) photonic device based on side-hole microstructured optical fiber (SH-MOF) with internal electrodes, in which the WGM quality factors do not decrease significantly during the tuning process. The resonant modes are redshifted simply by increasing the temperature. A description of the thermal tuning properties of the WGMs in SH-MOF with internal electrodes is performed by using a two-stage computational methodology, where the effects of metal filling process are considered. SH-MOF devices with internal electrodes are tested and the experimental results show excellent agreement with the theory. A linear relationship between the shift rate of the WGM modes and temperature is observed. The tunable SH-MOF microresonator with internal electrodes is anticipated to find potential applications in optical filtering, optical switching, and highly integrated tunable photonic devices.
Prognostic significance of early changes in serum biomarker levels in patients with newly diagnosed metastatic prostate cancer
Authors: Narita Shintaro , Nomura Kyoko , Hatakeyama Shingo , Takahashi Masahiro , Sakurai Toshihiko , Kawamura Sadafumi , Hoshi Senji , Ishida Masanori , Kawaguchi Toshiaki , Ishidoya Shigeto , Shimoda Jiro , Sato Hiromi , Mitsuzuka Koji , Tochigi Tatsuo , Tsuchiya Norihiko , Ohyama Chikara , Arai Yoichi , Nagashima Kengo , Habuchi Tomonori
Published: August 2019

We evaluated the impact of early changes in serum biomarker levels on the survival of patients with metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC) who were initially treated with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). We retrospectively investigated 330 patients with mHSPC whose serum maker levels were at baseline and at 2–4 months. An optimal Cox regression model was established with the highest optimism-corrected concordance index based on 10-fold cross-validation. The median cancer-specific survival (CSS) and overall survival (OS) were 7.08 and 6.47 years (median follow-up, 2.53 years), respectively. In the final optimal Cox model with serum biomarker levels treated as time-varying covariates, prostate-specific antigen (PSA), hemoglobin (Hb), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) significantly increased the risk of poor survival in the context of both CSS and OS. Kaplan–Meier curves stratified by the three risk factors of high PSA, low Hb and high ALP desmondtated that median OS were not reached with none of these factors, 6.47 years with one or two factors, and 1.76 years with all three factors.Early changes in serum biomarker levels after ADT may be good prognostic markers for the survival of patients with mHSPC.
Purine metabolism in sprint- vs endurance-trained athletes aged 20‒90 years
Authors: Zieliński Jacek , Slominska Ewa M. , Król-Zielińska Magdalena , Krasiński Zbigniew , Kusy Krzysztof
Published: August 2019

Purine metabolism is crucial for efficient ATP resynthesis during exercise. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of lifelong exercise training on blood purine metabolites in ageing humans at rest and after exhausting exercise. Plasma concentrations of hypoxanthine (Hx), xanthine (X), uric acid (UA) and the activity of erythrocyte hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyl transferase (HGPRT) were measured in 55 sprinters (SP, 20‒90 years), 91 endurance runners (ER, 20‒81 years) and 61 untrained participants (UT, 21‒69 years). SP had significantly lower levels of plasma purine metabolites and higher erythrocyte HGPRT activity than ER and UT. In all three groups, plasma purine levels (except UA in UT) significantly increased with age (1.8‒44.0% per decade). HGPRT activity increased in SP and ER (0.5‒1.0%), while it remained unchanged in UT. Hx and X concentrations increased faster with age than UA and HGPRT levels. In summary, plasma purine concentration increases with age, representing the depletion of skeletal muscle adenine nucleotide (AdN) pool. In highly-trained athletes, this disadvantageous effect is compensated by an increase in HGPRT activity, supporting the salvage pathway of the AdN pool restoration. Such a mechanism is absent in untrained individuals. Lifelong exercise, especially speed-power training, limits the age-related purine metabolism deterioration.
Putting the data before the algorithm in big data addressing personalized healthcare
Authors: Cahan Eli M. , Hernandez-Boussard Tina , Thadaney-Israni Sonoo , Rubin Daniel L.
Published: August 2019

Technologies leveraging big data, including predictive algorithms and machine learning, are playing an increasingly important role in the delivery of healthcare. However, evidence indicates that such algorithms have the potential to worsen disparities currently intrinsic to the contemporary healthcare system, including racial biases. Blame for these deficiencies has often been placed on the algorithm—but the underlying training data bears greater responsibility for these errors, as biased outputs are inexorably produced by biased inputs. The utility, equity, and generalizability of predictive models depend on population-representative training data with robust feature sets. So while the conventional paradigm of big data is deductive in nature—clinical decision support—a future model harnesses the potential of big data for inductive reasoning. This may be conceptualized as clinical decision questioning, intended to liberate the human predictive process from preconceived lenses in data solicitation and/or interpretation. Efficacy, representativeness and generalizability are all heightened in this schema. Thus, the possible risks of biased big data arising from the inputs themselves must be acknowledged and addressed. Awareness of data deficiencies, structures for data inclusiveness, strategies for data sanitation, and mechanisms for data correction can help realize the potential of big data for a personalized medicine era. Applied deliberately, these considerations could help mitigate risks of perpetuation of health inequity amidst widespread adoption of novel applications of big data.
Cell-derived extracellular vesicles can be used as a biomarker reservoir for glioblastoma tumor subtyping
Authors: Lane Rosemary , Simon Thomas , Vintu Marian , Solkin Benjamin , Koch Barbara , Stewart Nicolas , Benstead-Hume Graeme , Pearl Frances M. G. , Critchley Giles , Stebbing Justin , Giamas Georgios
Published: August 2019

Glioblastoma (GBM) is one of the most aggressive solid tumors for which treatment options and biomarkers are limited. Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) produced by both GBM and stromal cells are central in the inter-cellular communication that is taking place in the tumor bulk. As tumor sEVs are accessible in biofluids, recent reports have suggested that sEVs contain valuable biomarkers for GBM patient diagnosis and follow-up. The aim of the current study was to describe the protein content of sEVs produced by different GBM cell lines and patient-derived stem cells. Our results reveal that the content of the sEVs mirrors the phenotypic signature of the respective GBM cells, leading to the description of potential informative sEV-associated biomarkers for GBM subtyping, such as CD44. Overall, these data could assist future GBM in vitro studies and provide insights for the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic methods as well as personalized treatment strategies.
Compound Semiconductor Solar Cells
Authors: Singh Amita , Singh Ajay
Published: August 2019

Photovoltaic (PV) technologies offer one of the most promising renewable generated electricity (carbon-free) resources, which is the sustainable and workable solution to address fossil fuel shortage and global warming. Until the last decade, the solar market was almost entirely dominated by silicon wafer technology, but rapid advancement in thin-film technology, including both materials and production processes, has pushed this technology to take approximately 25% of the PV market. This has been due to a reduction in the cost, an increased efficiency, developments in cell design and new materials for this type of solar cell. In thin-film technology, compound semiconductor materials are currently one of the most promising candidates, possessing a great diversity of optoelectronic properties and more flexibility in terms of cell design. Consequently, these materials are very attractive for the fabrication of highly efficient photovoltaic devices for applications over large areas. In this chapter, we cover the material properties, the PV design, the current status and the technological limitations of thin-film solar cells based on compound semiconductor materials.
Solution-processed Solar Cells: Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Unger Eva L. , Shargaieva Oleksandra , Braunger Steffen , Docampo Pablo
Published: August 2019

Solar cells based on monovalent alkali or organic A-cation, divalent metal B-cation and monovalent halide anion (ABX3) perovskite semiconductors are emerging as a fast-growing research area with substantial technological potential. Discovered as an absorber in dye-sensitised solar cells, a range of processing strategies developed for printed organic photovoltaics have been used to deposit ABX3 solar cells from solutions. ABX3 semiconductors have comparable optoelectronic properties to GaAs and so far are the best solution-processed solar cell technology for small-area test devices. As device performances are comparable with other thin-film solar cell technologies, ABX3-based solar cells are reaching the phase of being evaluated for their potential in large-scale use for solar energy conversion. This chapter highlights the technological potential arising from the solution-processability of ABX3 materials. Recent insights into how ABX3 solution chemistry and lead–halide–solvent structural intermediates during film formation define the thin-film morphology of solution-processed ABX3 devices are discussed. Gaining control over film formation is a prerequisite to achieve further progress in scaling ABX3 devices to larger areas with solution-based processing methods. Apart from developing scalable process technology, rationalising material degradation pathways is of paramount importance, to make reliable predictions of device stability. Concerns regarding the potential ecotoxicity of lead-based materials has inspired the search for the next generation of ABX3-derived materials with similar favourable optoelectronic properties such as their solution-processability and defect tolerance.
Theoretical Analyses of Copper-based Solar Cell Materials for the Next Generation of Photovoltaics
Authors: Chen R. , Zamulko S. , Huang Dan , Persson C.
Published: August 2019

This chapter describes the state of the art in computer simulations in the context of the development of high-efficiency solar cells. It discusses how one analyses by theoretical means the structural, electronic, and optical properties of emerging copper-based chalcogenides, employing atomistic first-principles computational methods within density functional theory. The fundamental material characteristics of the compounds are analysed, and the optoelectronic performances are improved by alloying with isovalent elements. In order to develop inorganic photovoltaics based on an ultrathin, photon-absorbing film (i.e., with thickness d < 100 nm), the material should exhibit an optimised band gap energy, Eg, as well as have a very high absorption coefficient α(ω), especially for photon energies in the lower energy region of the absorption spectrum: Eg ≤ E < (Eg + 2 eV). To develop high-efficiency solar cells, we therefore suggest tailor making the materials to form direct-gap, multi-valley band edges, and energy bands with rather flat dispersions. These properties can typically be achieved by considering alloys with heavy elements that have relatively localised sp-like orbitals. With such tailored materials, we demonstrate that it is possible to reach a theoretical maximum efficiency as high as ηmax ≈ 30% for film thickness of d ≈ 50–100 nm. Such an approach is useful to support the search for new materials to drive innovation in solar technology in the future.
SERS monitoring of the Fenton degradation reaction based on microfluidic droplets and alginate microparticles
Authors: Yue Shuai , Ye Wenqi , Xu Zhangrun
Published: August 2019

We developed microfluidic droplet- and microparticle-based SERS methods for monitoring Fenton degradation process of rhodamine dye.
Estimation of bisulfate in edible plant foods, dog urine, and drugs: picomolar level detection and bio-imaging in living organisms
Authors: Nair Ratish R. , Raju M. , Bhai Surjit , Raval Ishan H. , Haldar Soumya , Ganguly Bishwajit , Chatterjee Pabitra B.
Published: August 2019

Picomolar level nonchemodosimetric probing of bisulfate in pure aqueous buffer at neutral pH by mechanosynthesized zwitterions and their unprecedented application in the estimation of bisulfate in edible plant foods, drugs, and urine samples.
Real-time surface plasmon resonance monitoring of site-specific phosphorylation of p53 protein and its interaction with MDM2 protein
Authors: Wu Ling , He Yuhan , Hu Yuqing , Lu Hanwen , Cao Zhong , Yi Xinyao , Wang Jianxiu
Published: August 2019

Real-time monitoring of site-specific phosphorylation of p53 protein and its binding to MDM2 is conducted using dual-channel surface plasmon resonance (SPR).
One-step encapsulation, storage and controlled release of low molecular weight organic compounds via electroplated nanoparticles
Authors: Silina Y. E. , Semenova D. , Spiridonov B. A.
Published: August 2019

Herein, we introduce an original strategy towards one-step encapsulation, storage and controlled release of low molecular weight organic compounds via electroplated nanoparticles.
Electro-osmotic trapping and compression of single DNA molecules while passing through a nanopore
Authors: Yamazaki Hirohito , Mizuguchi Takaha , Esashika Keiko , Saiki Toshiharu
Published: August 2019

Complicated DNA molecular behaviors exist during translocation into a nanopore because their large and coiled structure needs to unwind.
Responsive methylene blue release from lanthanide coordination polymer for label-free, immobilization-free and sensitive electrochemical alkaline phosphatase activity assay
Authors: Chen Zhiqiang , Liu Shuang , Yu Xiaoxiao , Hao Lijie , Wang Li , Liu Shufeng
Published: August 2019

A stimulus responsive methylene blue releasing and enriching strategy for sensitive electrochemical alkaline phosphatase activity assay.
Fluazinam direct detection based on the inner filter effect using a copper nanocluster fluorescent probe
Authors: Li Li , Hou Changjun , Li Jiawei , Yang Yixia , Hou Jingzhou , Ma Yi , He Qiang , Luo Huibo , Huo Danqun
Published: August 2019

The fluorescence spectrum was measured to explore the optical properties of l-cys-Cu NCs.
Analyzing the scaffold immune microenvironment using flow cytometry: practices, methods and considerations for immune analysis of biomaterials
Authors: Sadtler Kaitlyn , Elisseeff Jennifer H.
Published: August 2019

The immune system has evolved as a powerful tool for our body to combat infections, and is being engineered for new treatments in cancer, autoimmune disease, and trauma.
Beacon-mediated exponential amplification reaction (BEAR) using a single enzyme and primer
Authors: Newbigging Ashley M. , Zhang Hongquan , Le X. Chris
Published: August 2019

Beacon-mediated Exponential Amplification Reaction (BEAR) enables isothermal, exponential signal amplification. BEAR uses only a single enzyme and a single primer.
The selective production of jet fuel range alkanes via the catalytic upgrading of palmitic acid over Co/HMCM-49 catalysts
Authors: Shi Yanchun , Li Rui , Shen Qingru , Yang Mingde , Wu Yulong
Published: August 2019

Complete deoxygenation of palmitic acid followed by simultaneous hydro-isomerization and appropriate hydrocracking were achieved over Co/HMCM-49 bi-functional catalysts.
In situ growth of luminescent perovskite fibers in natural hollow templates
Authors: Song Tao , Yang Qi-Qi , Shi Heng-Xue , Liu Rui-Tong , Zhang Zheng-Tao , Huang Zhi-Peng , Sun Bing , Zhang Xiao-Dong , Guo Xiao-Jun , Wang Zhu-Nian , Gao Fei , Wang Qiang , Zhang Hao-Li
Published: August 2019

Natural hollow fibers were used as templates to in situ produce Cs4PbX6 nanosheets on the inner walls, forming long, robust and emission-tunable fibers for multiple applications like warning signs, anti-counterfeiting and fashion.
Photoswitchable Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) within a heterometallic Ir–Pt macrocycle
Authors: Qin Yi , Chen Li-Jun , Zhang Ying , Hu Yi-Xiong , Jiang Wei-Ling , Yin Guang-Qiang , Tan Hongwei , Li Xiaopeng , Xu Lin , Yang Hai-Bo
Published: August 2019

A new heterometallic macrocycle with photochromic properties was successfully constructed through coordination-driven self-assembly, which features interesting photoswitchable FRET behaviour.
A polar-hydrophobic ionic liquid induces grain growth and stabilization in halide perovskites
Authors: Liu Dan , Shao Zhipeng , Gui Jianzhou , Chen Min , Liu Mingzhen , Cui Guanglei , Pang Shuping , Zhou Yuanyuan
Published: August 2019

A polar-hydrophobic ionic liquid additive enlarges and functionalizes halide perovskite grains.
A biotinylated ruthenium(ii) photosensitizer for tumor-targeted two-photon photodynamic therapy
Authors: Li Jia , Zeng Leli , Xiong Kai , Rees Thomas W. , Jin Chengzhi , Wu Weijun , Chen Yu , Ji Liangnian , Chao Hui
Published: August 2019

A biotinylated ruthenium(ii) two-photon photosensitizer was developed to selectively target cancer cells and overcome cisplatin resistance by the production of high levels of singlet oxygen.
Visible-light-triggered direct keto-difluoroacetylation of styrenes with (fluorosulfonyl)difluoroacetate and dimethyl sulfoxide leads to α-difluoroacetylated ketones
Authors: Luo Xuewei , Fan Zhengning , Zhang Bo , Chen Chao , Xi Chanjuan
Published: August 2019

Photoredox-catalyzed direct keto-difluoroacetylation of styrenes with methyl (fluorosulfonyl)difluoroacetate and dimethyl sulfoxide to deliver various α-difluoroacetylated ketones are disclosed.
Top-down tailoring of nanostructured manganese molybdate enhances its lithium storage properties
Authors: Zhang Lifeng , Shen Kechao , Li Yangguang , Zha Tong , Song Yifei , Liu Yi , Guo Shouwu
Published: August 2019

Aggregated manganese molybdate micron-whiskers are tailored to nanospheres by a facile top-down strategy in the aqueous phase at room temperature.
Sequential halochromic/mechanochromic luminescence of pyridyl-substituted solid-state emissive dyes: thermally controlled stepwise recovery of the original emission color
Authors: Ito Suguru , Nishimoto Chika , Nagai Sayaka
Published: August 2019

A stepwise temperature-controlled emission-color switch has been achieved in a system that combines halochromic and mechanochromic luminescence in series.
DFT and microkinetic investigation of methanol synthesis via CO2 hydrogenation on Ni(111)-based surfaces
Authors: Maulana Arifin Luthfi , Putra Refaldi Intri Dwi , Saputro Adhitya Gandaryus , Agusta Mohammad Kemal , Nugraha Nugraha , Dipojono Hermawan Kresno
Published: August 2019

The kinetic performance of methanol synthesis on a clean Ni(111) surface can be improved by doping the surface with a transition metal atom.
Tuning the N-bonded cerium(iii) fraction/g-C3N4 interface in hollow structures using an in situ reduction treatment for superior photochemical hydrogen evolution
Authors: Waqas Muhammad , Yang Bo , Cao Lujie , Zhao Xu , Iqbal Waheed , Xiao Ke , Zhu Caizhen , Zhang Junmin
Published: August 2019

Hybridized N-CeO2/g-C3N4 hollow structures show CeO2 surface oxygen vacancy population for enhanced hydrogen evolution.
Urolithin A targets the PI3K/Akt/NF-κB pathways and prevents IL-1β-induced inflammatory response in human osteoarthritis: in vitro and in vivo studies
Authors: Fu Xin , Gong Lan-Fang , Wu Yi-Fan , Lin Zeng , Jiang Bing-Jie , Wu Long , Yu Ke-He
Published: August 2019

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease, whose progression is closely related to the inflammatory environment.
A connected cytoskeleton network generates axonal tension in embryonic Drosophila
Authors: Fan Anthony , Joy Md Saddam Hossain , Saif Taher
Published: August 2019

A microfluidic system that can perform load-displacement test and apply partial treatment simultaneously allows us to reveal the in-series architecture of load-generating cytoskeleton in drosophila axons.
A multi-modal sweat sensing patch for cross-verification of sweat rate, total ionic charge, and Na+ concentration
Authors: Yuan Zhen , Hou Lei , Bariya Mallika , Nyein Hnin Yin Yin , Tai Li-Chia , Ji Wenbo , Li Lu , Javey Ali
Published: August 2019

A wearable, multi-modal sensing patch for sweat rate and electrolyte analysis with inbuilt cross-verification schemes to ensure data integrity.
Noncontact tip-enhanced Raman spectroscopy for nanomaterials and biomedical applications
Authors: Voylov Dmitry N. , Bocharova Vera , Lavrik Nickolay V. , Vlassiouk Ivan , Polizos Georgios , Volodin Alexei , Shulga Yury M. , Kisliuk Alexander , Thiyagarajan Thirumagal , Miller Duane D. , Narayanan Ramesh , Sumpter Bobby G. , Sokolov Alexei P.
Published: August 2019

Demonstration of a proof of the concept and feasibility of a non-contact TERS approach promising for imaging of materials with high aspect ratio surface patterns and biomaterials.
Antimonene-based flexible photodetector
Authors: Xiao Qi , Hu Chen-Xia , Wu Hao-Ran , Ren Yong-Yuan , Li Xiang-Yang , Yang Qi-Qi , Dun Guan-Hua , Huang Zhi-Peng , Peng Yong , Yan Feng , Wang Qiang , Zhang Hao-Li
Published: August 2019

An effective solution to scalable exfoliation of large lateral sized antimonene nanosheets is developed. Flexible photodetectors based on hybrid structure of surface modified few layer antimonene exhibited excellent performance.
Interplay between ligand mobility and nanoparticle geometry during cellular uptake of PEGylated liposomes and bicelles
Authors: Shen Zhiqiang , Ye Huilin , Kröger Martin , Tang Shan , Li Ying
Published: August 2019

We explore the cellular uptake process of PEGylated liposomes and bicelles by investigating their membrane wrapping process using large-scale molecular dynamics simulations.
Acceptor-free photomultiplication-type organic photodetectors
Authors: Miao Jianli , Du Mingde , Fang Ying , Zhang Fujun
Published: August 2019

Acceptor-free photomultiplication-type organic photodetectors were fabricated with a blend of one polymer donor and one small molecule donor as the active layer.
An implantable and versatile piezoresistive sensor for the monitoring of human–machine interface interactions and the dynamical process of nerve repair
Authors: Wu Ping , Xiao Ao , Zhao Yanan , Chen Feixiang , Ke Meifang , Zhang Qiang , Zhang Jianwei , Shi Xiaowen , He Xiaohua , Chen Yun
Published: August 2019

A conductive sponge-based piezoresistive sensor for the noninvasive monitoring and dynamic evaluation of nerve repair.
Self-assembly of colloids based on microfluidics
Authors: Wang Lei , Wang Jianying
Published: August 2019

Microfluidic technique provides a powerful way for the control over the self-assembly of colloids. Here, recent advances of colloids self-assembly via microfluidics were reviewed, with the representative potential applications.
High-performance carbon-based perovskite solar cells through the dual role of PC61BM
Authors: Fan Weili , Wei Zhe , Zhang Zhenyun , Qiu Fazheng , Hu Chaosheng , Li Zhichao , Xu Minxuan , Qi Junjie
Published: August 2019

TOF-SIMS indicates that PC61BM passivates the interface of the perovskite/TiO2 film layer and it also functions as an additive.
Luminescent perovskites: recent advances in theory and experiments
Authors: Song Zhen , Zhao Jing , Liu Quanlin
Published: August 2019

This review summarizes previous research on luminescent perovskites, including oxides and halides, with different structural dimensionality. The relationship between the crystal structure, electronic structure and properties is discussed in detail.
Characterisation of hexagonal birnessite with a new and rapid synthesis method—comparison with traditional synthesis
Authors: Qin Zhangjie , Chen Xinmin , Ouyang Nanqi , Lan Shuai , Jiang Guanjie , Zhang Junxia , Zhang Qin
Published: August 2019

The new synthesis method of birnessite with rapid, simple, and low cost characteristics proposed in this work can be applied to industry products. Bir-H2O2have a better physicochemical characteristics than Bir-HCl using traditional synthesis.
Triazole-based novel bis Schiff base colorimetric and fluorescent turn-on dual chemosensor for Cu2+ and Pb2+: application to living cell imaging and molecular logic gates
Authors: Rout Kalyani , Manna Amit Kumar , Sahu Meman , Mondal Jahangir , Singh Sunil K. , Patra Goutam K.
Published: August 2019

A novel triazole-based bis Schiff base colorimetric and fluorescent chemosensor (L) has been designed, synthesized and characterized. The chemo-sensor L shows its application potential in the detection of Cu2+ and Pb2+ in living cells and building molecular logic gate.
Guided cellular orientation concurrently with cell density gradient on butterfly wings
Authors: Lu Jie , Pan Ye , Zhong Qifeng , Liu Bing
Published: August 2019

A simple method to create guided cellular orientation concurrently with cell density gradient on tilt butterfly wings was illustrated.
Tensile mechanical performance of Ni–Co alloy nanowires by molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Lu Xuefeng , Yang Panfeng , Luo Jianhua , Ren Junqiang , Xue Hongtao , Ding Yutian
Published: August 2019

The addition of a little Co can promote the formation of Frank and other fixed dislocations, making the alloy system have high yield strength. The defects in nanowires accelerated the occurrence of yield behavior.
Insight into the adsorption mechanisms of methylene blue and chromium(iii) from aqueous solution onto pomelo fruit peel
Authors: Dinh Van-Phuc , Huynh Thuy-Diem-Thuy , Le Hung M. , Nguyen Van-Dong , Dao Vinh-Ai , Hung N. Quang , Tuyen L. Anh , Lee Sunhwa , Yi Junsin , Nguyen Trinh Duy , Tan L. V.
Published: August 2019

In this study, the biosorption mechanisms of methylene blue (MB) and Cr(iii) onto pomelo peel collected from our local fruits are investigated by combining experimental analysis withab initiosimulations.
Retracted Article: FOXO4 overexpression suppresses hypoxia-induced-MCF-7 cell survival and promotes apoptosis through the HIF-2α/Bnip3 signal pathway
Authors: Qiao Yan , Wang Bin , Zhang Huimin , Yan Yu , Niu Ligang
Published: August 2019

Transcriptional regulator forkhead box O (FOXO) has implications in many diverse carcinomas and often acts as a tumour suppressor.
Role of electron in intramolecular vibrational energy redistribution: a simulation of time- and frequency-resolved CARS spectrum
Authors: Wang Zanhao , Wu Honglin , Liu Xiaosong , Song Yunfei , Yang Yanqiang
Published: August 2019

The electron plays a mediator role in the IVR process and significantly increases the vibrational energy transfer efficiency.
Proline-promoted dehydroxylation of α-ketols
Authors: Mostinski Yelena , Lankri David , Konovalov Yana , Nataf Riva , Tsvelikhovsky Dmitry
Published: August 2019

A new single-step proline-potassium acetate promoted reductive dehydroxylation of α-ketols is reported. We introduce the unexplored reactivity of proline and, for the first time, reveal its ability to function as a reducing agent.
Microbial fuel cells (MFC) and microalgae; photo microbial fuel cell (PMFC) as complete recycling machines
Authors: Greenman John , Gajda Iwona , Ieropoulos Ioannis
Published: August 2019

This review discusses the potential future uses of photomicrobial fuel cells (PMFCs) as complete recycling machines for biomass transformation.
Band gap modulation in zirconium-based metal–organic frameworks by defect engineering
Authors: Taddei Marco , Schukraft Giulia M. , Warwick Michael E. A. , Tiana Davide , McPherson Matthew J. , Jones Daniel R. , Petit Camille
Published: August 2019

A simple defect engineering approach to systematically tune the band gap of the prototypical zirconium-based metal–organic framework UiO-66 is reported. Defect engineered materials display enhanced photocatalytic activity.
Accelerating hole extraction by inserting 2D Ti3C2-MXene interlayer to all inorganic perovskite solar cells with long-term stability
Authors: Chen Taotao , Tong Guoqing , Xu Enze , Li Huan , Li Pengcheng , Zhu Zhifeng , Tang Jianxin , Qi Yabing , Jiang Yang
Published: August 2019

MXenes have been demonstrated as a potential candidate in the field of photovoltaics and energy storage owing to their high transmittance, metallic conductivity and tunable work function.
Oxygen defect engineering in cobalt iron oxide nanosheets for promoted overall water splitting
Authors: Guo Chengying , Liu Xuejing , Gao Lingfeng , Ma Xiaojing , Zhao Mingzhu , Zhou Jinzhi , Kuang Xuan , Deng Weiqiao , Sun Xu , Wei Qin
Published: August 2019

Benefited from the optimized activity of active sites, adsorption energy and the proposed electron transfer property, the CoFe2O4 nanosheet with oxygen vacancies exhibited significantly enhanced water splitting catalytic performance.
Systematic optimization of the substituents on the phenothiazine donor of doubly strapped porphyrin sensitizers: an efficiency over 11% unassisted by any cosensitizer or coadsorbent
Authors: Zeng Kaiwen , Tang Weiqiang , Li Chengjie , Chen Yingying , Zhao Shuangliang , Liu Qingyun , Xie Yongshu
Published: August 2019

Charge recombination was effectively suppressed by judicious optimization of the substituents of the phenothiazine donor, and the power conversion efficiency was successfully improved from 9.3% to 11.1%.
Template free mild hydrothermal synthesis of core–shell Cu2O(Cu)@CuO visible light photocatalysts for N-acetyl-para-aminophenol degradation
Authors: Karthikeyan Sekar , Chuaicham Chitiphon , Pawar Radheshyam R. , Sasaki Keiko , Li Wei , Lee Adam F. , Wilson Karen
Published: August 2019

Solar photocatalytic processes are a promising approach to environmental remediation, however their implementation requires improvements in visible light harvesting and conversion and a focus on low cost, Earth abundant materials.
Capacitive conjugated ladder polymers for fast-charge and -discharge sodium-ion batteries and hybrid supercapacitors
Authors: Chen Yuan , Li Hongyang , Tang Mi , Zhuo Shuming , Wu Yanchao , Wang Erjing , Wang Shimin , Wang Chengliang , Hu Wenping
Published: August 2019

A novel conjugated ladder polymer is developed, showing high capacity and rate capability in organic sodium-ion batteries and hybrid supercapacitors.
Carrier-free nanodrugs for in vivo NIR bioimaging and chemo-photothermal synergistic therapy
Authors: Lin Juanfang , Li Chao , Guo Yan , Zou Junjie , Wu Pengyu , Liao Yuqin , Zhang Bingchen , Le Jingqing , Zhao Ruirui , Shao Jing-Wei
Published: August 2019

The combination of chemotherapy and photothermal therapy displays improved anti-cancer effects and lower systematic toxicity of a free drug compared with monotherapy.
Regulation of surface micro/nano structure and composition of polyetheretherketone and their influence on the behavior of MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblasts
Authors: Cheng Qinwen , Yuan Bo , Chen Xuening , Yang Xiao , Lin Hai , Zhu Xiangdong , Zhang Kai , Zhang Xingdong
Published: August 2019

Rapid biomimetic formation of bone-like apatite on sulfonated and NaOH-treated PEEK is evaluated for its positive influence on the behavior of MC3T3-E1 cells.
Glucose-functionalized near-infrared Ag2Se quantum dots with renal excretion ability for long-term in vivo tumor imaging
Authors: Ge Xiao-Lei , Huang Biao , Zhang Zhi-Ling , Liu Xiaolan , He Man , Yu Zili , Hu Bin , Cui Ran , Liang Xing-Jie , Pang Dai-Wen
Published: August 2019

Non-toxic and long-term fluorescent probes for tumor imaging are in urgent need for non-invasively obtaining information about tumor genesis and metastasis in vivo.
Chlorotoxin modified morusin–PLGA nanoparticles for targeted glioblastoma therapy
Authors: Agarwal Srishti , Mohamed M. Sheikh , Mizuki Toru , Maekawa Toru , Sakthi Kumar D.
Published: August 2019

Novel PLGA–MOR–CTX nano formulation with CTX as a targeting ligand and morusin loaded PLGA NPs as a highly potent system to curb glioma cell proliferation.
Equipment-free and visualized biosensor for transcription factor rapid assay based on dopamine-functionalized cellulose paper
Authors: Lin Haiyang , Wang Xin , Wu Jiahui , Li Haiyin , Li Feng
Published: August 2019

Dopamine-functionalized cellulose paper with low cost, portable, and disposable features was applied for an equipment-free and naked-eye detection of transduction factor based on the enzyme-assisted signal amplification/transduction reaction.
Tetraphenylpyrazine decorated 1,3-di(9H-carbazol-9-yl)benzene (mCP): a new AIE-active host with enhanced performance in organic light-emitting diodes
Authors: Guo Jiali , Pan Lingxiang , Song Bo , Gu Jiabao , Zeng Jiajie , Xu Xiaotian , Wu Haozhong , Zhao Zujin , Wang Zhiming , Qin Anjun , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: August 2019

Decorating a conventional mCP host with a tetraphenylpyrazine moiety generates a new AIE-active host, from which better device performance was realized.
Improvement in efficiency and stability of quantum dot/polymer nanocomposite film for light-emitting diodes using refractive index-controlled quantum dot–silica hybrid particles
Authors: Jeon Hyungjoon , Jo Joon Hee , Yang Kab Pil , Lee Kangtaek
Published: August 2019

Controlling refractive index of hybrid particles suppressed light scattering and enhanced efficiency and stability of nanocomposite film.
The distinguishing of cis–trans isomers enabled via dielectric/ferroelectric signal feedback in a supramolecular Cu(1,10-phenanthroline)2SeO4·(diol) system
Authors: Gao Ji-Xing , Wang Zhong-Xia , Tang Yuan-Yuan , Liu Yu-Ling , Zhou Lin , Chen Xiao-Gang , Zhang Wan-Ying , Xiong Ren-Gen
Published: August 2019

A supramolecular system is used for the first time to distinguish cis–trans isomers, in which cis- or trans-1,2-cyclohexanediol can be simply recognized via dielectric/ferroelectric responses.
Electron and hole trapping in Eu- or Eu,Hf-doped LuPO4 and YPO4 tracked by EPR and TSL spectroscopy
Authors: Laguta Valentin , Buryi Maksym , Nikl Martin , Zeler Justyna , Zych Eugeniusz , Bettinelli Marco
Published: August 2019

EPR spectroscopy in X- and Q-bands was employed to trace charge carrier trapping upon exposure to X-rays of LuPO4:Eu, LuPO4:Eu,Hf and YPO4:Eu,Hf flux-grown single crystals, as well as LuPO4:Eu sintered ceramics.
Diagnostic value of circulating miRNA-122 for hepatitis B virus and/or hepatitis C virus-associated chronic viral hepatitis
Authors: Zhou Xinhao , Fang Shiqiang , Wang Mian , Xiong Ali , Zheng Chao , Wang Jiulong , Yin Changqing
Published: August 2019

Background: The liver-specific microRNA-122 (miR-122) has been demonstrated as a powerful and promising biomarker of hepatic diseases. However, the researches on the accuracy of miR122 detection in chronic viral hepatitis have been inconsistent, leading us to conduct this meta-analysis to systematically summarize the diagnostic value of circulating miR-122 in patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and/or hepatitis C virus (HCV)-associated chronic viral hepatitis.

Methods: A comprehensive literature search (updated to January 30, 2019) in PubMed, Cochrane library, EMBASE, CNKI, Wanfang, and CQVIP databases was performed to identify eligible studies. The sensitivity (SEN), specificity (SPE), positive and negative likelihood ratios (PLR and NLR), diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), and area under the curve (AUC) were pooled to explore the diagnostic performance of circulating miR-122. Subgroup and threshold effect analysis were further carried out to explore the heterogeneity.

Results: Overall, 15 studies were finally included in this meta-analysis according to the exclusion and inclusion criteria. The pooled estimates indicated a moderately high diagnostic accuracy for circulating miR-122, with a sensitivity of 0.92 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.86–0.95], a specificity of 0.84 (95% CI, 0.78–0.89), a PLR of 5.7 (95% CI, 4.7–8.1), a NLR of 0.1 (95% CI, 0.06–0.18), a DOR of 57 (95% CI 25-129), and an AUC of 0.93 (95% CI, 0.91–0.95). The subgroup analysis demonstrated that diagnostic accuracy was better for HCV-associated chronic viral hepatitis patients and non-Chinese compared with other subgroups. In addition, we found that serum might be a more promising matrix for detecting the expression of miR-122 than plasma.

Conclusions: Our results demonstrated that circulating miR-122 have a relatively high diagnostic value for chronic viral hepatitis detection, especially in the patients with HCV-associated chronic viral hepatitis. However, further large cohort studies are still required to confirm our findings.