bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A revised road map for the commitment of human cord blood CD34-negative hematopoietic stem cells
Authors: Sumide Keisuke , Matsuoka Yoshikazu , Kawamura Hiroshi , Nakatsuka Ryusuke , Fujioka Tatsuya , Asano Hiroaki , Takihara Yoshihiro , Sonoda Yoshiaki
Published: May 2018

We previously identified CD34-negative (CD34−) severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID)-repopulating cells as primitive hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) in human cord blood. In this study, we develop a prospective ultra-high-resolution purification method by applying two positive markers, CD133 and GPI-80. Using this method, we succeed in purifying single long-term repopulating CD34−HSCs with self-renewing capability residing at the apex of the human HSC hierarchy from cord blood, as evidenced by a single-cell-initiated serial transplantation analysis. The gene expression profiles of individual CD34+and CD34−HSCs and a global gene expression analysis demonstrate the unique molecular signature of CD34−HSCs. We find that the purified CD34−HSCs show a potent megakaryocyte/erythrocyte differentiation potential in vitro and in vivo. Megakaryocyte/erythrocyte progenitors may thus be generated directly via a bypass route from the CD34−HSCs. Based on these data, we propose a revised road map for the commitment of human CD34−HSCs in cord blood.
SETBP1 induces transcription of a network of development genes by acting as an epigenetic hub
Authors: Piazza Rocco , Magistroni Vera , Redaelli Sara , Mauri Mario , Massimino Luca , Sessa Alessandro , Peronaci Marco , Lalowski Maciej , Soliymani Rabah , Mezzatesta Caterina , Pirola Alessandra , Banfi Federica , Rubio Alicia , Rea Delphine , Stagno Fabio , Usala Emilio , Martino Bruno , Campiotti Leonardo , Merli Michele , Passamonti Francesco , Onida Francesco , Morotti Alessandro , Pavesi Francesca , Bregni Marco , Broccoli Vania , Baumann Marc , Gambacorti-Passerini Carlo
Published: May 2018

SETBP1 variants occur as somatic mutations in several hematological malignancies such as atypical chronic myeloid leukemia and as de novo germline mutations in the Schinzel–Giedion syndrome. Here we show that SETBP1 binds to gDNA in AT-rich promoter regions, causing activation of gene expression through recruitment of a HCF1/KMT2A/PHF8 epigenetic complex. Deletion of two AT-hooks abrogates the binding of SETBP1 to gDNA and impairs target gene upregulation. Genes controlled by SETBP1 such as MECOM are significantly upregulated in leukemias containing SETBP1 mutations. Gene ontology analysis of deregulated SETBP1 target genes indicates that they are also key controllers of visceral organ development and brain morphogenesis. In line with these findings, in utero brain electroporation of mutated SETBP1 causes impairment of mouse neurogenesis with a profound delay in neuronal migration. In summary, this work unveils a SETBP1 function that directly affects gene transcription and clarifies the mechanism operating in myeloid malignancies and in the Schinzel–Giedion syndrome caused by SETBP1 mutations.
Precise temporal regulation of alternative splicing during neural development
Authors: Weyn-Vanhentenryck Sebastien M. , Feng Huijuan , Ustianenko Dmytro , Duffié Rachel , Yan Qinghong , Jacko Martin , Martinez Jose C. , Goodwin Marianne , Zhang Xuegong , Hengst Ulrich , Lomvardas Stavros , Swanson Maurice S. , Zhang Chaolin
Published: May 2018

Alternative splicing (AS) is one crucial step of gene expression that must be tightly regulated during neurodevelopment. However, the precise timing of developmental splicing switches and the underlying regulatory mechanisms are poorly understood. Here we systematically analyze the temporal regulation of AS in a large number of transcriptome profiles of developing mouse cortices, in vivo purified neuronal subtypes, and neurons differentiated in vitro. Our analysis reveals early-switch and late-switch exons in genes with distinct functions, and these switches accurately define neuronal maturation stages. Integrative modeling suggests that these switches are under direct and combinatorial regulation by distinct sets of neuronal RNA-binding proteins including Nova, Rbfox, Mbnl, and Ptbp. Surprisingly, various neuronal subtypes in the sensory systems lack Nova and/or Rbfox expression. These neurons retain the “immature” splicing program in early-switch exons, affecting numerous synaptic genes. These results provide new insights into the organization and regulation of the neurodevelopmental transcriptome.
Vms1p is a release factor for the ribosome-associated quality control complex
Authors: Zurita Rendón Olga , Fredrickson Eric K. , Howard Conor J. , Van Vranken Jonathan , Fogarty Sarah , Tolley Neal D. , Kalia Raghav , Osuna Beatriz A. , Shen Peter S. , Hill Christopher P. , Frost Adam , Rutter Jared
Published: May 2018

Eukaryotic cells employ the ribosome-associated quality control complex (RQC) to maintain homeostasis despite defects that cause ribosomes to stall. The RQC comprises the E3 ubiquitin ligase Ltn1p, the ATPase Cdc48p, Rqc1p, and Rqc2p. Upon ribosome stalling and splitting, the RQC assembles on the 60S species containing unreleased peptidyl-tRNA (60S:peptidyl–tRNA). Ltn1p and Rqc1p facilitate ubiquitination of the incomplete nascent chain, marking it for degradation. Rqc2p stabilizes Ltn1p on the 60S and recruits charged tRNAs to the 60S to catalyze elongation of the nascent protein with carboxy-terminal alanine and threonine extensions (CAT tails). By mobilizing the nascent chain, CAT tailing can expose lysine residues that are hidden in the exit tunnel, thereby supporting efficient ubiquitination. If the ubiquitin–proteasome system is overwhelmed or unavailable, CAT-tailed nascent chains can aggregate in the cytosol or within organelles like mitochondria. Here we identify Vms1p as a tRNA hydrolase that releases stalled polypeptides engaged by the RQC.
The evolution of the temporal program of genome replication
Authors: Agier Nicolas , Delmas Stéphane , Zhang Qing , Fleiss Aubin , Jaszczyszyn Yan , van Dijk Erwin , Thermes Claude , Weigt Martin , Cosentino-Lagomarsino Marco , Fischer Gilles
Published: May 2018

Genome replication is highly regulated in time and space, but the rules governing the remodeling of these programs during evolution remain largely unknown. We generated genome-wide replication timing profiles for ten Lachancea yeasts, covering a continuous evolutionary range from closely related to more divergent species. We show that replication programs primarily evolve through a highly dynamic evolutionary renewal of the cohort of active replication origins. We found that gained origins appear with low activity yet become more efficient and fire earlier as they evolutionarily age. By contrast, origins that are lost comprise the complete range of firing strength. Additionally, they preferentially occur in close vicinity to strong origins. Interestingly, despite high evolutionary turnover, active replication origins remain regularly spaced along chromosomes in all species, suggesting that origin distribution is optimized to limit large inter-origin intervals. We propose a model on the evolutionary birth, death, and conservation of active replication origins.
Living functional hydrogels generated by bioorthogonal cross-linking reactions of azide-modified cells with alkyne-modified polymers
Authors: Nagahama Koji , Kimura Yuuka , Takemoto Ayaka
Published: May 2018

To date, many scientists have thoroughly investigated both cells and cellular functions, resulting in the identification of numerous molecular mechanisms underlying the cellular functions. Based on these findings, medical scientists and pharmacologists have developed many technological applications for cells and cellular functions in medicine. How can material scientists utilize cells and cellular functions? Here, we show a concept for utilizing cells and their functions from the viewpoint of materials science. In particular, we develop cell cross-linked living bulk hydrogels by bioorthogonal click cross-linking reactions of azide-modified mammalian cells with alkyne-modified biocompatible polymers. Importantly, we demonstrate the unique functionalities of the living hydrogels, originating from the basic functions of the cells incorporated in the living hydrogels as active cross-linking points. The findings of this study provide a promising route to generating living cell-based next-generation innovative materials, technologies, and medicines.
Rivers as carriers and potential sentinels for Burkholderia pseudomallei in Laos
Authors: Zimmermann Rosalie E. , Ribolzi Olivier , Pierret Alain , Rattanavong Sayaphet , Robinson Matthew T. , Newton Paul N. , Davong Viengmon , Auda Yves , Zopfi Jakob , Dance David A. B.
Published: May 2018

Burkholderia pseudomallei, causative agent of the often fatal disease melioidosis, dwells in tropical soils and has been found in freshwater bodies. To investigate whether rivers are potential habitats or carriers for B. pseudomallei and to assess its geographical distribution in Laos, we studied 23 rivers including the Mekong, applying culture-based detection methods and PCR to water filters and streambed sediments. B. pseudomallei was present in 9% of the rivers in the dry season and in 57% in the rainy season. We found the pathogen exclusively in Southern and Central Laos, and mainly in turbid river water, while sediments were positive in 35% of the B. pseudomallei-positive sites. Our results provide evidence for a heterogeneous temporal and spatial distribution of B. pseudomallei in rivers in Laos with a clear north-south contrast. The seasonal dynamics and predominant occurrence of B. pseudomallei in particle-rich water suggest that this pathogen is washed out with eroded soil during periods of heavy rainfall and transported by rivers, while river sediments do not seem to be permanent habitats for B. pseudomallei. Rivers may thus be useful to assess the distribution and aquatic dispersal of B. pseudomallei and other environmental pathogens in their catchment area and beyond.
Glucose challenge metabolomics implicates medium-chain acylcarnitines in insulin resistance
Authors: Nowak Christoph , Hetty Susanne , Salihovic Samira , Castillejo-Lopez Casimiro , Ganna Andrea , Cook Naomi L. , Broeckling Corey D. , Prenni Jessica E. , Shen Xia , Giedraitis Vilmantas , Ärnlöv Johan , Lind Lars , Berne Christian , Sundström Johan , Fall Tove , Ingelsson Erik
Published: May 2018

Insulin resistance (IR) predisposes to type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease but its causes are incompletely understood. Metabolic challenges like the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) can reveal pathogenic mechanisms. We aimed to discover associations of IR with metabolite trajectories during OGTT. In 470 non-diabetic men (age 70.6 ± 0.6 years), plasma samples obtained at 0, 30 and 120 minutes during an OGTT were analyzed by untargeted liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry metabolomics. IR was assessed with the hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp method. We applied age-adjusted linear regression to identify metabolites whose concentration change was related to IR. Nine trajectories, including monounsaturated fatty acids, lysophosphatidylethanolamines and a bile acid, were significantly associated with IR, with the strongest associations observed for medium-chain acylcarnitines C10 and C12, and no associations with L-carnitine or C2-, C8-, C14- or C16-carnitine. Concentrations of C10- and C12-carnitine decreased during OGTT with a blunted decline in participants with worse insulin resistance. Associations persisted after adjustment for obesity, fasting insulin and fasting glucose. In mouse 3T3-L1 adipocytes exposed to different acylcarnitines, we observed blunted insulin-stimulated glucose uptake after treatment with C10- or C12-carnitine. In conclusion, our results identify medium-chain acylcarnitines as possible contributors to IR.
Publisher Correction: The Weak Microcavity as an Enabler for Bright and Fault-tolerant Light-emitting Electrochemical Cells
Authors: Lindh E. Mattias , Lundberg Petter , Lanz Thomas , Mindemark Jonas , Edman Ludvig
Published: May 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has not been fixed in the paper.
The benefits of modified FOLFIRINOX for advanced pancreatic cancer and its induced adverse events: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tong Hongxuan , Fan Zhu , Liu Biyuan , Lu Tao
Published: May 2018

FOLFIRINOX has been one of the first-line options for advanced pancreatic cancer, even though it induces significant adverse effects. Several institutions have begun using modified FOLFIRINOX to decrease its side effects and increase its tolerability. We systematically investigated the outcome from patients who initially received modified FOLFIRINOX as a chemotherapy regimen for advanced pancreatic cancer. We used the random-model generic inverse variance method to analyse the binary data with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Eleven studies were included in the meta-analysis with 563 total patients. The 6-month and 1-year overall survival (OS) rates of locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC) were 90.9% and 76.2%. The 6-month and 1-year progression-free survival (PFS) rates of LAPC were 81.5% and 48.5%. The 6-month and 1-year OS rates of metastatic pancreatic cancer (MPC) were 79.7% and 47.6%. The 6-month and 1-year PFS rates of MPC were 56.3% and 20.6%. The following rates were also calculated: complete response rate (CR): 2.9%; partial response rate (PR): 35.9%; stable disease rate (SD): 41.2%; overall response rate (OR): 34.6%; disease control rate (DCR): 76.7%; progressive disease: 23.1%; and grade III/IV adverse events (AEs): neutropenia 23.1%, febrile neutropenia 4.8%, thrombocytopenia 4.8%, anaemia 5.7%, fatigue 11.5%, nausea 9.1%, diarrhoea 10.1%, vomiting 5.7%, neuropathy 3.8%, and increased ALT 5.7%. In conclusion, modified FOLFIRINOX could provide comparative survival benefits with fewer adverse events compared to the conventional dosage.
Testing the Precedence Effect in the Median Plane Reveals Backward Spatial Masking of Sound
Authors: Ege Rachel , van Opstal A. John , Bremen Peter , van Wanrooij Marc M.
Published: May 2018

Two synchronous sounds at different locations in the midsagittal plane induce a fused percept at a weighted-average position, with weights depending on relative sound intensities. In the horizontal plane, sound fusion (stereophony) disappears with a small onset asynchrony of 1–4 ms. The leading sound then fully determines the spatial percept (the precedence effect). Given that accurate localisation in the median plane requires an analysis of pinna-related spectral-shape cues, which takes ~25–30 ms of sound input to complete, we wondered at what time scale a precedence effect for elevation would manifest. Listeners localised the first of two sounds, with spatial disparities between 10–80 deg, and inter-stimulus delays between 0–320 ms. We demonstrate full fusion (averaging), and largest response variability, for onset asynchronies up to at least 40 ms for all spatial disparities. Weighted averaging persisted, and gradually decayed, for delays >160 ms, suggesting considerable backward masking. Moreover, response variability decreased with increasing delays. These results demonstrate that localisation undergoes substantial spatial blurring in the median plane by lagging sounds. Thus, the human auditory system, despite its high temporal resolution, is unable to spatially dissociate sounds in the midsagittal plane that co-occur within a time window of at least 160 ms.
Metagenomics detection and characterisation of viruses in faecal samples from Australian wild birds
Authors: Vibin Jessy , Chamings Anthony , Collier Fiona , Klaassen Marcel , Nelson Tiffanie M. , Alexandersen Soren
Published: May 2018

We present an optimised metagenomics method for detection and characterisation of all virus types including single and double stranded DNA/RNA and enveloped and non-enveloped viruses. Initial evaluation included both spiked and non-spiked bird faecal samples as well as non-spiked human faecal samples. From the non-spiked bird samples (Australian Muscovy duck and Pacific black ducks) we detected 21 viruses, and we also present a summary of a few viruses detected in human faecal samples. We then present a detailed analysis of selected virus sequences in the avian samples that were somewhat similar to known viruses, and had good quality (Q20 or higher) and quantity of next-generation sequencing reads, and was of interest from a virological point of view, for example, avian coronavirus and avian paramyxovirus 6. Some of these viruses were closely related to known viruses while others were more distantly related with 70% or less identity to currently known/sequenced viruses. Besides detecting viruses, the technique also allowed the characterisation of host mitochondrial DNA present and thus identifying host species, while ribosomal RNA sequences provided insight into the “ribosomal activity microbiome”; of gut parasites; and of food eaten such as plants or insects, which we correlated to non-avian host associated viruses.
Validation of Twitter opinion trends with national polling aggregates: Hillary Clinton vs Donald Trump
Authors: Bovet Alexandre , Morone Flaviano , Makse Hernán A.
Published: May 2018

Measuring and forecasting opinion trends from real-time social media is a long-standing goal of big-data analytics. Despite the large amount of work addressing this question, there has been no clear validation of online social media opinion trend with traditional surveys. Here we develop a method to infer the opinion of Twitter users by using a combination of statistical physics of complex networks and machine learning based on hashtags co-occurrence to build an in-domain training set of the order of a million tweets. We validate our method in the context of 2016 US Presidential Election by comparing the Twitter opinion trend with the New York Times National Polling Average, representing an aggregate of hundreds of independent traditional polls. The Twitter opinion trend follows the aggregated NYT polls with remarkable accuracy. We investigate the dynamics of the social network formed by the interactions among millions of Twitter supporters and infer the support of each user to the presidential candidates. Our analytics unleash the power of Twitter to uncover social trends from elections, brands to political movements, and at a fraction of the cost of traditional surveys.
Author Correction: Consumption of vegetables and fruits and breast cancer survival: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: He Juanjuan , Gu Yuanting , Zhang Shaojin
Published: May 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has been fixed in the paper.
Colorimetric LAMP microfluidic chip for detecting three allergens: peanut, sesame and soybean
Authors: Yuan Dan , Kong Jilie , Li Xinxin , Fang Xueen , Chen Qin
Published: May 2018

Food allergies can greatly harm people’s health, and therefore detecting allergens in foods is extremely important. By integrating loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) with a microfluidic chip, we have developed a method for detecting the allergen genes of peanut (Arachis hypogaea), sesame (Sesamum indicum), and soybean (Glycine max) using a colorimetric method suitable for the naked eye, known as the colorimetric LAMP microfluidic chip. In the presence of peanut, sesame, or soybean in the samples, the corresponding reaction well of the microfluidic chip will appear pink, or otherwise remain light brown. This method of detection is specific and can easily distinguish these three allergens from others in foods. The detection limit for peanut, sesame and soybean allergens was 0.4 ng/μL using the LAMP-microfluidic chip. The accuracy of this novel and rapid method was validated using allergenic foods obtained commercially and was comparable with that of the typical TaqMan real-time PCR method.
Enhanced carbon-sulfur cycling in the sediments of Arabian Sea oxygen minimum zone center
Authors: Fernandes Svetlana , Mazumdar Aninda , Bhattacharya Sabyasachi , Peketi Aditya , Mapder Tarunendu , Roy Rimi , Carvalho Mary Ann , Roy Chayan , Mahalakshmi P. , Da Silva Rheane , Rao P. L. Srinivasa , Banik Suman Kumar , Ghosh Wriddhiman
Published: May 2018

Biogeochemistry of oxygen minimum zone (OMZ) sediments, which are characterized by high input of labile organic matter, have crucial bearings on the benthic biota, gas and metal fluxes across the sediment-water interface, and carbon-sulfur cycling. Here we couple pore-fluid chemistry and comprehensive microbial diversity data to reveal the sedimentary carbon-sulfur cycle across a water-depth transect covering the entire thickness of eastern Arabian Sea OMZ, off the west coast of India. Geochemical data show remarkable increase in average total organic carbon content and aerial sulfate reduction rate (JSO42−) in the sediments of the OMZ center coupled with shallowing of sulfate methane transition zone and hydrogen sulfide and ammonium build–up. Total bacterial diversity, including those of complex organic matter degraders, fermentative and exoelectrogenic bacteria, and sulfate-reducers (that utilize only simple carbon compounds) were also found to be highest in the same region. The above findings indicate that higher organic carbon sequestration from the water-columns (apparently due to lower benthic consumption, biodegradation and biotransformation) and greater bioavailability of simple organic carbon compounds (apparently produced by fermetative microflora of the sediments) are instrumental in intensifying the carbon-sulfur cycle in the sediments of the OMZ center.
Magnetostructural correlation in isolated trinuclear iron(iii) oxo acetate complexes
Authors: Lang Johannes , Hewer Joachim M. , Meyer Jonathan , Schuchmann Jonas , van Wüllen Christoph , Niedner-Schatteburg Gereon
Published: May 2018

We elucidate the correlation between geometric structures and magnetic couplings in trinuclear iron(iii) oxo acetate complexes [Fe3O(OAc)6(Py)n]+ (n = 0, 1, 2, 3) when isolated and trapped as gaseous ions.
Black tea increases hypertonic stress resistance inC. elegans
Authors: Yuan Pei , Pan Lian-yun , Xiong Li-gui , Tong Jie-wen , Li Juan , Huang Jian-an , Gong Yu-shun , Liu Zhong-hua
Published: May 2018

Black tea extract is more effective than green tea extract in protectingC. elegansagainst hypertonic stress, within the studied concentration range.
XNA ligation using T4 DNA ligase in crowding conditions
Authors: Kestemont Donaat , Renders Marleen , Leonczak Piotr , Abramov Mikhail , Schepers Guy , Pinheiro Vitor B. , Rozenski Jef , Herdewijn Piet
Published: May 2018

T4 DNA ligase is capable of ligating XNA in the presence of 10% w/v PEG8000 and 3 M betaine.
Exploiting 13C/14N solid-state NMR distance measurements to assign dihedral angles and locate neighboring molecules
Authors: Pope Giovanna M. , Hung Ivan , Gan Zhehong , Mobarak Hani , Widmalm Göran , Harper James K.
Published: May 2018

The RESPDOR NMR method rapidly provides multiple 13C/14N distance measurements in natural abundance solids.
Silica nano-channel induced i-motif formation and stabilization at neutral and alkaline pH
Authors: Satpathi Sagar , Das Konoya , Hazra Partha
Published: May 2018

Reversible formation and stabilization of i-motif DNA has been instigated inside the nano-channels of MCM-41 in neutral and alkaline media.
Palladium-metalated porous organic polymers as recyclable catalysts for chemoselective decarbonylation of aldehydes
Authors: Li Wen-Hao , Li Cun-Yao , Li Yan , Tang Hai-Tao , Wang Heng-Shan , Pan Ying-Ming , Ding Yun-Jie
Published: May 2018

A novel palladium nanoparticle (NP)-metalated porous organic ligand (Pd NPs/POL-xantphos) has been prepared for the chemoselective decarbonylation of aldehydes.
Frameworkvs.side-chain amphidynamic behaviour in oligo-(ethylene oxide) functionalised covalent-organic frameworks
Authors: Vazquez-Molina Demetrius A. , Pope Giovanna M. , Ezazi Andrew A. , Mendoza-Cortes Jose L. , Harper James K. , Uribe-Romo Fernando J.
Published: May 2018

We designed and synthesized crystalline covalent-organic frameworks that exhibit both slow and fast molecular motions in their structure.
Water adsorption on the Fe3O4(111) surface: dissociation and network formation
Authors: Zaki Eman , Mirabella Francesca , Ivars-Barceló Francisco , Seifert Jan , Carey Spencer , Shaikhutdinov Shamil , Freund Hans-Joachim , Li Xiaoke , Paier Joachim , Sauer Joachim
Published: May 2018

Water adsorption on Fe3O4(111) is studied in detail using infrared spectroscopy, temperature programmed desorption, micro-calorimetry and density functional theory.
Morphology and ion diffusion in PEDOT:Tos. A coarse grained molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Modarresi Mohsen , Franco-Gonzalez Juan Felipe , Zozoulenko Igor
Published: May 2018

A Martini coarse-grained Molecular Dynamics (MD) model for the doped conducting polymer poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) is developed. It is shown that the diffusion coefficients decrease exponentially as the hydration level is reduced.
Cobalt complexes with redox-active anthraquinone-type ligands
Authors: Shiga Takuya , Kumamaru Rina , Newton Graham N. , Oshio Hiroki
Published: May 2018

Three anthraquinone-type multidentate ligands, HL1–3 (HL = 2-R-1H-anthra[1,2-d]imidazole-6,11-dione; HL1: R = (2-pyridyl), HL2; R = (4,6-dimethyl-2-pyridyl), HL3; R = (6-methoxy-2-pyridyl)), were prepared, and their complexation behaviour was investigated.
Dinitrogen functionalization at a ditantalum center. Balancing N2displacement and N2functionalization in the reaction of coordinated N2with CS2
Authors: Burford Richard J. , Castro Ludovic , Maron Laurent , Hein Jason E. , Fryzuk Michael D.
Published: May 2018

The reaction of CS2with the side-on end-on dinitrogen complex ([NPNSi]Ta)2(μ–η1:η2-N2)(μ-H)2generates two products, the ratio of which depends on the concentration of added CS2.
Improving the stability and performance of perovskite solar cells via off-the-shelf post-device ligand treatment
Authors: Zhang Hong , Ren Xingang , Chen Xiwen , Mao Jian , Cheng Jiaqi , Zhao Yong , Liu Yuhang , Milic Jovana , Yin Wan-Jian , Grätzel Michael , Choy Wallace C. H.
Published: May 2018

A simple off-the-shelf post-device ligand treatment is developed to simultaneously improve the performance and air stability of perovskite solar cells, as well as repair as-prepared ‘poor devices’ for the first time.
All-solid-state flexible planar lithium ion micro-capacitors
Authors: Zheng Shuanghao , Ma Jiaming , Wu Zhong-Shuai , Zhou Feng , He Yan-Bing , Kang Feiyu , Cheng Hui-Ming , Bao Xinhe
Published: May 2018

All-solid-state flexible planar lithium ion micro-capacitors were constructed, which exhibit landmark volumetric energy density, superior thermal stability, outstanding mechanical flexibility and exceptional self-integration of bipolar cells.
Conjugated systems of porphyrin–carbon nanoallotropes: a review
Authors: S. Supriya , Shetti Vijayendra S. , Hegde Gurumurthy
Published: May 2018

This review summarizes the synthesis and applications of various porphyrin–carbon nanoallotrope conjugates.
Enhanced exciton emission behavior and tunable band gap of ternary W(SxSe1−x)2 monolayer: temperature dependent optical evidence and first-principles calculations
Authors: Sun Huimin , Wang Junyong , Wang Fang , Xu Liping , Jiang Kai , Shang Liyan , Hu Zhigao , Chu Junhao
Published: May 2018

We report enhanced exciton emission behavior of W(SxSe1−x)2 monolayers with changing the sulfur content derived by the CVD method.
Fluorescent magnetosomes for controlled and repetitive drug release under the application of an alternating magnetic field under conditions of limited temperature increase (<2.5 °C)
Authors: Alphandéry Edouard , Abi Haidar Darine , Seksek Olivier , Guyot François , Chebbi Imène
Published: May 2018

Therapeutic substances bound to nanoparticles have been shown to dissociate following excitation by various external sources of energies or chemical disturbance, resulting in controllable and efficient antitumor activity.
Copper-catalyzed synthesis of 2,2-difluoro-1,3-benzoxathioles(selenoles) and their insecticidal activities: the selenium effect
Authors: Zhang Mengjia , Lu Jiaqing , Weng Zhiqiang
Published: May 2018

A copper-catalyzed synthesis of 2,2-difluoro-1,3-benzoxathioles(selenoles) was developed. Some of the title compounds exhibited excellent insecticidal activities.
Stereoselective allylic reduction via one-pot palladium-catalyzed allylic sulfonation and sulfinyl retro-ene reactions
Authors: Um Hyun-Suk , Min Jungki , An Taeyang , Choi Jin , Lee Chulbom
Published: May 2018

A tandem approach for the stereoselective allylic reduction has been developed based on a strategy combining the palladium-catalyzed S-allylation and the sulfinyl retro-ene reactions.
Visible-light-driven photocatalytic degradation of safranin-T dye using functionalized graphene oxide nanosheet (FGS)/ZnO nanocomposites
Authors: Nenavathu Bhavani P. , Kandula Syam , Verma Swati
Published: May 2018

FGS/ZnO NCs with excellent photocatalytic activity towards photodegradation of safranin-T have been synthesized via a facile and economical solution route.
In situ monitoring of SI-ATRP throughout multiple reinitiations under flow by means of a quartz crystal microbalance
Authors: Mandal Joydeb , Varunprasaath R. S. , Yan Wenqing , Divandari Mohammad , Spencer Nicholas D. , Dübner Matthias
Published: May 2018

The polymerisation of 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) by means of surface-initiated atom transfer radical polymerisation (SI-ATRP) has been studied in situ using a quartz crystal microbalance, with multiple reinitiations under continuous flow of the reaction mixture.
Design and construction of an open source-based photometer and its applications in flow chemistry
Authors: Glotz Gabriel , Kappe C. Oliver
Published: May 2018

An inexpensive and easy to build photometer using a movable measuring cell for flow chemistry applications was designed with temporal resolution down to 1 ms.
Pseudocapacitive layered birnessite sodium manganese dioxide for high-rate non-aqueous sodium ion capacitors
Authors: Jiang Yalong , Tan Shuangshuang , Wei Qiulong , Dong Jun , Li Qidong , Xiong Fangyu , Sheng Jinzhi , An Qinyou , Mai Liqiang
Published: May 2018

Layered birnessite sodium manganese dioxide exhibits a highly pseudocapacitive sodium storage behavior with non-phase changes in non-aqueous systems, leading to high rate and long-life performance.
Hexavalent chromium removal over magnetic carbon nanoadsorbents: synergistic effect of fluorine and nitrogen co-doping
Authors: Huang Jiangnan , Li Yuhang , Cao Yonghai , Peng Feng , Cao Yonggang , Shao Qian , Liu Hu , Guo Zhanhu
Published: May 2018

F and N co-doped magnetic nanocarbons as adsorbents for environmental remediation have been demonstrated for the first time with high efficiency.
An optical fibre-based sensor for the detection of gaseous ammonia with methylammonium lead halide perovskite
Authors: Ruan Shuai , Lu Jianfeng , Pai Narendra , Ebendorff-Heidepriem Heike , Cheng Yi-Bing , Ruan Yinlan , McNeill Christopher R.
Published: May 2018

A novel optical fibre-based sensor utilising photoluminescence quenching in methylammonium lead halides upon exposure to ammonia is demonstrated.
Triazophos-induced toxicity in zebrafish: miRNA-217 inhibits nup43
Authors: Jia Longlue , Zhang Danyan , Huang Hannian , Zhou Yongyong , Zhou Shengli , Guo Jiangfeng
Published: May 2018

Triazophos is a highly toxic organophosphorus pesticide, causing acute toxicity to brain tissue, and neurotoxicity and embryotoxicity to animals.
Association of variants of miRNA processing genes with cervical precancerous lesion risk in a southern Chinese population
Authors: Huang Shi-Qi , Zhou Zi-Xing , Zheng Shao-Ling , Liu Dan-Dan , Ye Xiao-Hong , Zeng Cheng-Li , Han Ya-Jing , Wen Zi-Hao , Zou Xiao-Qian , Wu Jing , Liu Yu-Mei , Huang Chui-Can , Wang Yao , Yang Guang , Jing Chun-Xia
Published: May 2018

The miRNA processing genes play essential roles in the biosynthesis of mammalian miRNAs, and their genetic variants are involved in the development of various cancers. Our study aimed to determine the potential association between miRNA processing gene polymorphisms and cervical precancerous lesions. Five single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), including Ran-GTP (RAN) rs14035, exportin-5 (XPO5) rs11077, DICER1 rs3742330, DICER1 rs13078, and TARBP2 rs784567, were genotyped in a case–control study to estimate risk factors of cervical precancerous lesions. The gene–environment interactions and haplotype association were estimated. We identified a 27% decreased risk of cervical precancerous lesions for individuals with minor G allele in DICER1 rs3742330 (odds ratio (OR) = 0.73, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) = 0.58–0.92, P = 0.009). The AG and AG/GG genotypes in DICER1 rs3742330 were also found to decrease the risk of cervical precancerous lesions (AG compared with AA: OR = 0.51, 95% CI = 0.35–0.73, P <0.001; AG/GG compared with AA: OR = 0.54, 95% CI = 0.39–0.77, P = 0.001). The GT haplotype in DICER1 had a risk effect on cervical precancerous lesions compared with the AT haplotype (OR = 1.36, 95% CI = 1.08–1.73, P = 0.010). A two-factor (DICER1 rs3742330 and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection) and two three-factor (model 1: rs3742330, passive smoking, and HPV infection; model 2: rs3742330, abortion history, and HPV infection) interaction models for cervical precancerous lesions were identified. In conclusion, the genetic variants in the miRNA processing genes and interactions with certain environmental factors might contribute to the risk of cervical precancerous lesions in southern Chinese women.
Gemcitabine resistance mediated by ribonucleotide reductase M2 in lung squamous cell carcinoma is reversed by GW8510 through autophagy induction
Authors: Chen Ping , Wu Jian-Nong , Shu Yang , Jiang He-Guo , Zhao Xiao-Hui , Qian Hai , Chen Kang , Lan Ting , Chen Chen-Guo , Li Jian
Published: May 2018

Although chemotherapeutic regimen containing gemcitabine is the first-line therapy for advanced lung squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC), gemcitabine resistance remains an important clinical problem. Some studies suggest that overexpressions of ribonucleotide reductase (RNR) subunit M2 (RRM2) may be involved in gemcitabine resistance. We used a novel RRM2 inhibitor, GW8510, as a gemcitabine sensitization agent to investigate the therapeutic utility in reversing gemcitabine resistance in LSCC. Results showed that the expressions of RRM2 were increased in gemcitabine intrinsic resistant LSCC cells upon gemcitabine treatment. GW8510 not only suppressed LSCC cell survival, but also sensitized gemcitabine-resistant cells to gemcitabine through autophagy induction mediated by RRM2 down-regulation along with decrease in dNTP levels. The combination of GW8510 and gemcitabine produced a synergistic effect on killing LSCC cells. The synergism of the two agents was impeded by addition of autophagy inhibitors chloroquine (CQ) or bafilomycin A1 (Baf A1), or knockdown of the autophagy gene, Bcl-2-interacting protein 1 (BECN1). Moreover, GW8510-caused LSCC cell sensitization to gemcitabine through autophagy induction was parallel with impairment of DNA double-strand break (DSB) repair and marked increase in cell apoptosis, revealing a cross-talk between autophagy and DNA damage repair, and an interplay between autophagy and apoptosis. Finally, gemcitabine sensitization mediated by autophagy induction through GW8510-caused RRM2 down-regulation was demonstrated in vivo in gemcitabine-resistant LSCC tumor xenograft, further indicating that the sensitization is dependent on autophagy activation. In conclusion, GW8510 can reverse gemcitabine resistance in LSCC cells through RRM2 downregulation-mediated autophagy induction, and GW850 may be a promising therapeutic agent against LSCC as it combined with gemcitabine.
Masked beamforming in frequency domain for hybrid acoustic vector sensor array
Authors: Lee H.J. , Lee K.K.
Published: May 2018

A masked beamforming algorithm for a hybrid acoustic vector sensor array (AVSA) is presented. In the general literature, a full‐rank AVSA, comprised entirely of an acoustic vector sensor (AVS), is known to be capable of left–right ambiguity elimination. However, a full‐rank AVSA has disadvantages including rotation perturbation of sensor directivity, complexity of electrical loading, and high cost. To alleviate these disadvantages, a hybrid AVSA consisting of only a single AVS in an array of omni‐directional sensors is reported in the patent with a limited performance in left–right ambiguity elimination. A masked beamforming algorithm is proposed to achieve good left–right ambiguity elimination performance in a hybrid AVSA by masking the beam output spectrum of the omni‐directional sensor array with the beam output spectrum of an AVS in the frequency domain. Simulation results that validate the performance of the proposed method are also presented.
Improved sparse signal recovery method based on matching pursuit revised MAP estimation
Authors: Pan Jian , Tang Jun , Wang Li , Zhang Yunlei
Published: May 2018

The problem of recovering a sparse signal buried in noise from a linear observing system has been studied, via utilising statistic prior information of noise and signal, a fast matching pursuit revised maximum a posterior (MP‐RMAP) estimation method is proposed. The proposed method overcomes the none‐robust estimation problem that fast Bayesian matching pursuit has in high signal‐to‐noise ratio cases. Compared with other methods, the MP‐RMAP method is able to improve the estimation accuracy with low complexity. Experimental results verify the validity of the proposed algorithm.
Design and optimisation of a novel asymmetric rotor structure for a PM‐assisted synchronous reluctance machine
Authors: Xing Fuzhen , Zhao Wenliang , Kwon Byung‐Il
Published: May 2018

This study proposes a novel asymmetric rotor structure with tuning‐fork flux barriers for a permanent magnet (PM)‐assisted synchronous reluctance machine (PMA‐SynRM) to improve the torque characteristics. The proposed asymmetrical rotor structure can effectively decrease the flux leakage inside the rotor, as well as ensure the maximum values of the magnetic torque and the reluctance torque are near the same current phase angle as each other to achieve better utility. To realise this, the frozen permeability method is implemented to separate the total torque into the reluctance torque and the magnetic torque via a two‐dimensional finite‐element method – JMAG‐Designer. To achieve the optimal torque characteristics in the proposed model, the Kriging method and a genetic algorithm are used for getting the optimised model. The contribution of this investigation into motor performance is validated by comparing the proposed model with a conventional PMA‐SynRM with a symmetric rotor structure. Beyond that, all machine models are the same size, have the same number of magnets and are operated under the same conditions. A prototype of the proposed model is experimentally verified, i.e. the simulation results agree with the experimental results.
Energy efficient ultra‐dense networks based on multi‐objective optimisation framework
Authors: Salem Ahmed Abdelaziz , El‐Rabaie Sayed , Shokair Mona
Published: May 2018

Energy efficiency (EE) is considered as one of the pivotal uplink (UL) performance metrics for 5G dense networks. It consists of two conflicting objectives that are recognised as benefit–cost ratio: spectral efficiency and energy consumption. Accordingly, network design tradeoff is the key challenge for future networks. In this paper, we aim to jointly maximise network spectral efficiency and minimise power consumption with respect to the following design parameters: base station (BS) density, users' number, equipped antennas' number, and signal‐to‐noise power ratio without losing service quality. The performance of the ultra‐dense network is characterised on the basis of the Pareto optimality concept through the following benchmarks: (i) studying impact of exhausted power on the deployed hardware elements. (ii) Validating the total EE performance through Monte‐Carlo simulation within a low cost of processing time. (iii) The proposed approach is compared against single objective scheme to show the significance of the design tradeoff. Furthermore, we will introduce a detailed mathematical analysis for UL power policy and channel estimation for reliable pilot reusing. Simulation results will show that our proposed solution guarantee remarkable EE performance via reducing the number of deployed BSs without scarificing service quality.
Channel coordination through quality improvement with brand halo effect
Authors: Xu Qingyun , Xu Bing , He Yi
Published: May 2018

Product quality depends on the quality investment of the manufacturer and quality decisions of the supplier. Therefore, many firms and researchers pay considerable attention to supply quality management. Considering a supply chain that includes two competing suppliers and one manufacturer, this paper investigates the influences of competition and the “brand halo” effect on the quality strategies of channel members, and explores the potential coordinating power of the bilateral participation contract. Utilizing differential game theory, this paper compares and analyzes the quality strategies of all channel members under three different scenarios: (i) decentralized scenario within a subsidy program, (ii) integrated scenario, and (iii) bilateral participation contract. Our results confirm the following results. (1) The manufacturer may not grant a subsidy to the supplier if two final products are highly competitive. (2) Supply chain members are more likely to join the bilateral participation contract if the “brand halo” effect is large. (3) The bilateral participation contract can achieve perfect coordination if the competition is weak or if a transfer payment policy exists.
Optimal dynamic pricing, preservation technology investment and periodic ordering policies for agricultural products
Authors: Lu Jing , Zhang Jianxiong , Jia Xinyun , Zhu Guowei
Published: May 2018

This paper focuses on the inventory management of agricultural products, a specific type of perishable items carrying the deterioration property. In practice, the deterioration rate of agricultural products is varying with time and can be slowed downviainvesting in the preservation technology. This objective of this paper is to maximize the firm’s total profit per unit time by simultaneously determining dynamic pricing, replenishment cycle length, replenishment quantity and preservation technology investment. We first derive pricing policy by solving a dynamic optimization problem and then propose a solution procedure to obtain the optimal strategies that maximize profit. Furthermore, numerical examples and sensitivity analysis are conducted to gain more managerial insights. We find that the firm should take a penetration pricing policy. In addition, if the shelf life of products is very long, the firm should not take preservation technology investment. When the unit holding cost is relatively small or the unit purchasing cost is relatively large, the firm should increase preservation technology investment.
A Randomized Double-Blind Study Between a Low Molecular Weight Heparin Kabi 2165 and Standard Heparin in the Prevention of Deep Vein Thrombosis in General Surgery
Authors: Caen J P
Published: May 2018

The safety and efficacy of a low molecular weight heparin fragment Kabi 2165, given in the dose 2,500 anti-Xa units once daily, in preventing postoperative venous thromboembolism, was assessed against calcium heparin in the dose 5,000 IU twice daily, in a multicenter double blind randomized study. On an intention to treat basis 385 patients scheduled for major surgery were included in this study. Six patients (3.1%) out of 195 developed isotopic DVT in the Kabi 2165 group. Corresponding figures for calcium heparin was 7 patients (3.7%). There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups with respect to the bleeding variables; blood loss during operation, postoperative drainage, blood transfusion, haemoglobin and haematocrit levels; wound haematoma and haematoma at the injection sites. No patient had to undergo evacuation of wound haematoma or reoperation due to bleeding. It is concluded that one single daily injection of Kabi 2165 provides a convenient safe and effective prophylaxis against thromboembolism in general surgery.
Patients With Prolonged Bleeding Time of Undefined Etiology, and Their Response to Desmopressin
Authors: Kim Hugh C , Salva Kathryn , Fallot Paul L , Karp George I , Eisele Joan , Matts Linda , Heller Ilana , Saidi Parvin
Published: May 2018

Between 1981 and 1986, we evaluated 59 patients who presented with isolated prolongation of bleeding time with normal platelet counts, platelet aggregation and coagulation parameters (including von Willebrand’s factor), and without evidence of liver or kidney disease, or exposure to anti-platelet agents. These patients, termed as vascular fragility syndrome (VFS), were analyzed to further characterize their bleeding patterns. The pattern of bleeding manifestations was similar to that of patients with platelet dysfunction, such as mucocutaneous bleeding or excessive post-operative bleeding. In 16 patients, desmopressin (l-desamino-8-d-arginine vasopressin, DDAVP) was infused to control active bleeding or as a part of pre-surgical evaluation. Bleeding time improved (pre-DDAVP bleeding time 15.3 ± 3.4 min, mean±S.D.; post-DDAVP bleeding time 10.7 ± 3.9 min; p<0.01) within 30 minutes following the DDAVP infusion with either satisfactory arrest of acute bleeding or good control of subsequent hemostasis with surgery. Side effects with DDAVP were transient and minor, i.e. facial flushing, or conjunctival erythema. These findings indicate that VFS with isolated prolongation of bleeding time is a frequently encountered bleeding disorder and that DDAVP is effective in achieving hemostasis for the management of acute bleeding and may be useful prior to surgical procedures.
Current Status of Off-pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting in Patients with Multiple Coronary Artery Disease Compared with On-pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting: The Korean National Cohort Study
Authors: Kim Hee , Chung Jae , Jung Jae , Kim In , Son Ho
Published: May 2018

Background Despite advance in off-pump coronary artery bypass (OPCAB) grafting, there are large debating issues regarding survival benefit between OPCAB and on-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). The aim of this study is to address appropriateness of OPCAB approach in patients with ischemic heart disease having multiple vessels using South Korea national cohort data.

Methods To evaluate the safety and efficacy of OPCAB, we accessed all causes of death, late repeat revascularization, hospitalization for cerebrovascular accident (CVA), and new renal replacement therapy in patients who underwent isolated CABG with multiple grafting (≥2 grafts) and who were registered in the Korean Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service Database between April 2011 and September 2014.

Results OPCAB was performed in 4,692 patients and on-pump CABG in 2,999 patients from 82 hospitals in South Korea. On multivariable analysis, on–pump CABG was associated with a significantly higher adjusted risk of overall all-cause death (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.876, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.587–2.216, p < 0.001) and initiation of new renal replacement therapy (HR: 1.618, 95% CI: 1.124–2.331, p = 0.009). However, we observed no significant difference in repeat revascularization and hospitalization for CVA between the two groups. In propensity score matching, matched patients (2,940 pairs) showed results similar to multivariable analysis that on-pump CABG was associated with a higher overall mortality and initiation of new renal replacement therapy (p < 0.001).

Conclusion In this study, we found that OPCAB was associated with better survival rates and renal preservation compared with on-pump CABG.