bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pegylated liposomal doxorubicin plus cyclophosphamide followed by docetaxel as neoadjuvant chemotherapy in locally advanced breast cancer (registration number: ChiCTR1900023052)
Authors: Li Ruoyang , Tian Fuguo , Qi Yixin , Ma Li , Zhou Tao , Li Yuntao , Hui Tianli , Zhang Lina , Wang Shuo , Song Zhenchuan
Published: December 2019

Anthracyclines have a profound effect on breast cancer. However, at higher dosages, there are many toxic side effects associated with their use; these include bone marrow suppression, alopecia, gastrointestinal reactions and cardiotoxicity. Pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PEG-LG) has been demonstrated to achieve equivalent efficacy to conventional doxorubicin, with significantly lower cardiotoxicity. We conducted an open-label, multicenter, single-armed clinical trial useing an NAC regimen based on four cycles of PEG-LD 40 mg/m2 plus cyclophosphamide (CPM) 600 mg/m2 on day 1 of a 21 day schedule, followed by four cycles of docetaxel (DTX) 85 mg/m2 on day 1 of a 21 day schedule. The primary endpoint analysed was the pathological complete response rate (pCR) in the breast, while treatment toxicities and safety were also assessed. The results showed that the breast pCR rate was 18.75% (95% CI 11.5–26.0%). Among the different molecular cancer types, the triple negative breast cancer patients had the highest pCR, at 43.75%. No significant decrease in left ventricular ejection fraction was observed. Our data tends to draw the conclusion that this regimen is a viable option for the neoadjuvant treatment of patients with LABC, especially in the triple-negative subtype and patients with heart abnormalities. We believe the efficacy and the safety of this regimen is likely to be the same based on published data from other studies but that this cannot be certain without a randomized trial.
Evaluation of Diffusion-Weighted MRI and FDG-PET/CT to Assess Response to AdCD40L treatment in Metastatic Melanoma Patients
Authors: Schiza Aglaia , Irenaeus Sandra , Ortiz-Nieto Francisco , Loskog Angelica , Tötterman Thomas , Sundin Anders , Ullenhag Gustav J. , Ahlström Håkan
Published: December 2019

The purpose was to evaluate the potential of diffusion-weighted-magnetic resonance imaging (DW-MRI) and 18F-fludeoxy-glucose-positron emission tomography integrated with CT (FDG-PET/CT) for prediction of overall survival (OS) following AdCD40L-immunotherapy in patients with metastatic malignant melanoma (MMM). Twenty-four patients with refractory MMM were treated with immunostimulatory AdCD40L gene therapy in a phase I/IIa study. Pre-therapeutic DW-MRI and FDG-PET/CT were performed and then repeated at 5 and 9 weeks post-treatment. Evaluation was conducted according to RECIST 1.1 and EORTC criteria. Apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), true diffusion coefficient (D), maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) were measured in the injected lesions. Fold changes (F) in ADC (F ADC), D (F D), SUVmax (F SUVmax) were statistically assessed. F D ≥ 1 and F ADC ≥ 1 were associated with better OS in scans at week 5 and 9 respectively. F SUVmax was not correlated to OS. F ADC ≥ 1 in both post-treatment scans and F D ≥ 1 at week 5 were related to a significant decrease of size of the injected lesions. These results suggest that in patients with MMM treated with AdCD40l, functional parameters of DW-MRI are better early predictors of OS than the established metabolic and morphologic criteria for FDG-PET/CT and MRI, respectively.
Succession in arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi can be attributed to a chronosequence of Cunninghamia lanceolata
Authors: Lu Nini , Xu Xuelei , Wang Ping , Zhang Peng , Ji Baoming , Wang Xinjie
Published: December 2019

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi play an important role in plant-fungi communities. It remains a central question of how the AM fungal community changes as plants grow. To establish an understanding of AM fungal community dynamics associated with Chinese fir, Chinese fir with five different growth stages were studied and 60 root samples were collected at the Jiangle National Forestry Farm, Fujian Province. A total of 76 AM fungal operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were identified by high-throughput sequencing on an Illumina Miseq platform. The genera covered by OTUs wereGlomus,Archaeospora,Acaulospora,GigasporaandDiversispora. Glomusdominated the community in the whole stage. The number and composition of OTUs varied along with the host plant growth. The number of OTUs showed an inverted V-shaped change with the host plant age, and the maximum occurred in 23-year. Overall, the basic species diversity and richness in this study were stable. Non-metric multi-dimensional scaling (NMDS) analysis based on bray-curtis distance revealed that there were remarkable differentiations between the 9-year and other stages. Besides, AM fungal community in 32-year had a significant difference with that of 23-year, while no significant difference with that of 45-year, suggesting that 32-year may be a steady stage for AM fungi associated with Chinese fir. The cutting age in 32-year may be the most favorable for microbial community. The pH, total N, total P, total K, available N, available P, available K, organic matter and Mg varied as the Chinese fir grows. According to Mantel test and redundancy analysis, available N, available P, K and Mg could exert significant influence on AM fungal communities, and these variables explained 31% of variance in the composition of AM fungal communities.
LIN28B affects gene expression at the hypothalamic-pituitary axis and serum testosterone levels
Authors: Leinonen Jaakko T. , Chen Yu-Chia , Pennonen Jana , Lehtonen Leevi , Junna Nella , Tukiainen Taru , Panula Pertti , Widén Elisabeth
Published: December 2019

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have recurrently associated sequence variation nearby LIN28B with pubertal timing, growth and disease. However, the biology linking LIN28B with these traits is still poorly understood. With our study, we sought to elucidate the mechanisms behind the LIN28B associations, with a special focus on studying LIN28B function at the hypothalamic-pituitary (HP) axis that is ultimately responsible for pubertal onset. Using CRISPR-Cas9 technology, we first generated lin28b knockout (KO) zebrafish. Compared to controls, the lin28b KO fish showed both accelerated growth tempo, reduced adult size and increased expression of mitochondrial genes during larval development. Importantly, data from the knockout zebrafish models and adult humans imply that LIN28B expression has potential to affect gene expression in the HP axis. Specifically, our results suggest that LIN28B expression correlates positively with the expression of ESR1 in the hypothalamus and POMC in the pituitary. Moreover, we show how the pubertal timing advancing allele (T) for rs7759938 at the LIN28B locus associates with higher testosterone levels in the UK Biobank data. Overall, we provide novel evidence that LIN28B contributes to the regulation of sex hormone pathways, which might help explain why the gene associates with several distinct traits.
Regulation of vanillate and syringate catabolism by a MarR-type transcriptional regulator DesR in Sphingobium sp. SYK-6
Authors: Araki Takuma , Umeda Shusuke , Kamimura Naofumi , Kasai Daisuke , Kumano Shuta , Abe Tomokuni , Kawazu Chika , Otsuka Yuichiro , Nakamura Masaya , Katayama Yoshihiro , Fukuda Masao , Masai Eiji
Published: December 2019

Vanillate and syringate are major intermediate metabolites generated during the microbial degradation of lignin. In Sphingobium sp. SYK-6, vanillate is O demethylated to protocatechuate by LigM; protocatechuate is then catabolized via the protocatechuate 4,5-cleavage pathway. Syringate is O demethylated to gallate by consecutive reactions catalyzed by DesA and LigM, and then gallate is subjected to ring cleavage by DesB. Here, we investigated the transcriptional regulation of desA, ligM, and desB involved in vanillate and syringate catabolism. Quantitative reverse transcription-PCR analyses indicated that the transcription of these genes was induced 5.8–37-fold in the presence of vanillate and syringate. A MarR-type transcriptional regulator, SLG_12870 (desR), was identified as the gene whose product bound to the desB promoter region. Analysis of a desR mutant indicated that the transcription of desB, ligM, and desR is negatively regulated by DesR. Purified DesR bound to the upstream regions of desB, ligM, and desR, and the inverted repeat sequences similar to each other in these regions were suggested to be essential for DNA binding of DesR. Vanillate and syringate inhibited DNA binding of DesR, indicating that these compounds are effector molecules of DesR. The transcription of desA was found to be regulated by an as-yet unidentified regulator.
Prediction of leukocyte counts during paediatric acute lymphoblastic leukaemia maintenance therapy
Authors: Karppinen Santeri , Lohi Olli , Vihola Matti
Published: December 2019

Maintenance chemotherapy with oral 6-mercaptopurine and methotrexate remains a cornerstone of modern therapy for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. The dosage and intensity of therapy are based on surrogate markers such as peripheral blood leukocyte and neutrophil counts. Dosage based leukocyte count predictions could provide support for dosage decisions clinicians face trying to find and maintain an appropriate dosage for the individual patient. We present two Bayesian nonlinear state space models for predicting patient leukocyte counts during the maintenance therapy. The models simplify some aspects of previously proposed models but allow for some extra flexibility. Our second model is an extension which accounts for extra variation in the leukocyte count due to a treatment adversity, infections, using C-reactive protein as a surrogate. The predictive performances of our models are compared against a model from the literature using time series cross-validation with patient data. In our experiments, our simplified models appear more robust and deliver competitive results with the model from the literature.
Impact of Q-Griffithsin anti-HIV microbicide gel in non-human primates: In situ analyses of epithelial and immune cell markers in rectal mucosa
Authors: Günaydın Gökçe , Edfeldt Gabriella , Garber David A. , Asghar Muhammad , Noȅl-Romas Laura , Burgener Adam , Wählby Carolina , Wang Lin , Rohan Lisa C. , Guenthner Patricia , Mitchell James , Matoba Nobuyuki , McNicholl Janet M. , Palmer Kenneth E. , Tjernlund Annelie , Broliden Kristina
Published: December 2019

Natural-product derived lectins can function as potent viral inhibitors with minimal toxicity as shownin vitroand in small animal models. We here assessed the effect of rectal application of an anti-HIV lectin-based microbicide Q-Griffithsin (Q-GRFT) in rectal tissue samples from rhesus macaques. E-cadherin+cells, CD4+cells and total mucosal cells were assessed usingin situstaining combined with a novel customized digital image analysis platform. Variations in cell numbers between baseline, placebo and Q-GRFT treated samples were analyzed using random intercept linear mixed effect models. The frequencies of rectal E-cadherin+cells remained stable despite multiple tissue samplings and Q-GRFT gel (0.1%, 0.3% and 1%, respectively) treatment. Whereas single dose application of Q-GRFT did not affect the frequencies of rectal CD4+cells, multi-dose Q-GRFT caused a small, but significant increase of the frequencies of intra-epithelial CD4+cells (placebo: median 4%; 1% Q-GRFT: median 7%) and of the CD4+lamina propria cells (placebo: median 30%; 0.1–1% Q-GRFT: median 36–39%). The resting time between sampling points were further associated with minor changes in the total and CD4+rectal mucosal cell levels. The results add to general knowledge ofin vivoevaluation of anti-HIV microbicide application concerning cellular effects in rectal mucosa.
Chest CTA in children younger than two years – a retrospective comparison of three contrast injection protocols
Authors: Nagy Eszter , Tschauner Sebastian , Marterer Robert , Riedl Regina , Sorantin Erich
Published: December 2019

To obtain the highest diagnostic information with least side effects when performing thoracic CT angiography (CTA) is challenging in young children. The current study aims to compare three contrast agent (CA) injection protocols regarding image quality and CA characteristic: a standard CTA, a fixed-bolus delay protocol, and the “microbolus technique (MBT)” developed in our institution. Seventy chest CTA scans of patients (<2 years) were divided into three groups. MBT was applied in group I, the standard protocol in group II and a fixed bolus delay in group III. Objective image quality was assessed by measuring peak enhancement, image noise, signal-to-noise (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratios (CNR). Two observers scored subjective image quality and artifacts. Significantly lower amounts of CA (mean ± SD) were used in the MBT group compared to Group II (9.0 ± 3.7 ml vs. 12.9 ± 4.5 ml). A lower, but still diagnostic (>400 HU) enhancement was registered in all major thoracic vessels in group I without significant differences regarding SNR and CNR in most regions (p < 0.05). The best scores for image quality and artifacts were reached in group I. All three chest CTA contrast injection protocols offered diagnostic vessel enhancement in young patients. MBT was associated with reduced image artifacts and less injected CA.
Three-Dimensional Printing of a LiFePO4/Graphite Battery Cell via Fused Deposition Modeling
Authors: Maurel Alexis , Grugeon Sylvie , Fleutot Benoît , Courty Matthieu , Prashantha Kalappa , Tortajada Hugues , Armand Michel , Panier Stéphane , Dupont Loïc
Published: December 2019

Among the 3D-printing technologies, fused deposition modeling (FDM) represents a promising route to enable direct incorporation of the battery within the final 3D object. Here, the preparation and characterization of lithium iron phosphate/polylactic acid (LFP/PLA) and SiO2/PLA 3D-printable filaments, specifically conceived respectively as positive electrode and separator in a lithium-ion battery is reported. By means of plasticizer addition, the active material loading within the positive electrode is raised as high as possible (up to 52 wt.%) while still providing enough flexibility to the filament to be printed. A thorough analysis is performed to determine the thermal, electrical and electrochemical effect of carbon black as conductive additive in the positive electrode and the electrolyte uptake impact of ceramic additives in the separator. Considering both optimized filaments composition and using our previously reported graphite/PLA filament for the negative electrode, assembled and “printed in one-shot” complete LFP/Graphite battery cells are 3D-printed and characterized. Taking advantage of the new design capabilities conferred by 3D-printing, separator patterns and infill density are discussed with a view to enhance the liquid electrolyte impregnation and avoid short-circuits.
Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone System Blockades Does Not Protect Residual Renal Function in Patients with Hemodialysis at 1 Year After Dialysis Initiation: A Prospective Observational Cohort Study
Authors: Yoo Kyung Don , Kim Clara Tammy , Kwon Soie , Lee Jeonghwan , Oh Yun Kyu , Kang Shin-Wook , Yang Chul Woo , Kim Yong-Lim , Kim Yon Su , Lim Chun Soo , Lee Jung Pyo
Published: December 2019

The beneficial effects of renin angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS) blockade on residual renal function (RRF) in patients who have just initiated hemodialysis (HD) have been inconclusive. In this study, 935 patients with incident HD from a nationwide prospective observational cohort in Korea were included for analysis. The primary outcome showed that RRF as demonstrated by urine volume changes over 0, 3, and 12 months differed between the RAAS blockade and control groups. Mixed-effects linear regression was used to compare RRF between the groups. Patients in the RAAS group had a greater proportion of higher urine volume at study enrollment compared to the control group, but there was no difference in baseline characteristics, heart function, and dialysis-related indices. After adjusting for confounding factors, the RAAS group did not provide a significant benefit to RRF in a mixed-effects linear regression (p = 0.51). Male gender, high Charlson comorbidity index, diuretic use, and high weekly ultrafiltration volume were associated with faster decline in RRF. The RAAS group failed to provide a protective effect for the development of anuria 1 year after initiating dialysis based on the multivariate logistic regression (OR 0.73 95% CI 0.25–2.13, p = 0.57). In Korean patients with incident HD, RAAS blockade did not provide a protective effect for RRF after 1 year. Further research is needed to clarify the optimal treatment for preserving RRF in HD patients.
Prognostic classification of endometrial cancer using a molecular approach based on a twelve-gene NGS panel
Authors: López-Reig Raquel , Fernández-Serra Antonio , Romero Ignacio , Zorrero Cristina , Illueca Carmen , García-Casado Zaida , Poveda Andrés , López-Guerrero José Antonio
Published: December 2019

Endometrial Cancer (EC) is one of the most common malignancies in women in developed countries. Molecular characterization of different biotypes may improve clinical management of EC. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) project has revealed four prognostic EC subgroups: POLE, MSI; Copy Number Low (CNL) and Copy Number High (CNH). The goal of this study was to develop a method to classify tumors in any of the four EC prognostic groups using affordable molecular techniques. Ninety-six Formalin-Fixed Paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples were sequenced following a NGS TruSeq Custom Amplicon low input (Illumina) protocol interrogating a multi-gene panel. MSI analysis was performed by fragment analysis using eight specific microsatellite markers. A Random Forest classification algorithm (RFA), considering NGS results, was developed to stratify EC patients into different prognostic groups. Our approach correctly classifies the EC patients into the four TCGA prognostic biotypes. The RFA assigned the samples to the CNH and CNL groups with an accuracy of 0.9753 (p < 0.001). The prognostic value of these groups was prospectively reproduced on our series both for Disease-Free Survival (p = 0.004) and Overall Survival (p = 0.030).Hence, with the molecular approach herein described, a precise and suitable tool that mimics the prognostic EC subtypes has been solved and validated. Procedure that might be introduced into routine diagnostic practices.
Terahertz coherent receiver using a single resonant tunnelling diode
Authors: Nishida Yousuke , Nishigami Naoki , Diebold Sebastian , Kim Jaeyoung , Fujita Masayuki , Nagatsuma Tadao
Published: December 2019

Towards exploring advanced applications of terahertz (THz) electromagnetic waves, great efforts are being applied to develop a compact and sensitive THz receiver. Here, we propose a simple coherent detection system using a single resonant tunnelling diode (RTD) oscillator through self-oscillating mixing with an RTD oscillator injection-locked by a carrier wave. Coherent detection is successfully demonstrated with an enhancement in the sensitivity of >20 dB compared to that of direct detection. As a proof of concept, we performed THz wireless communications using an RTD coherent receiver and transmitter. We achieved 30-Gbit/s real-time error-free transmission, which is the highest among all electronic systems without error correction to date. Our results show that the proposed system can reduce the size and power consumption of various THz systems including sensing, imaging and ranging, which would enable progress to be made in a wide range of fields in such as material science, medicine, chemistry, biology, physics, astronomy, security, robotics and motor vehicle.
Muropeptides Stimulate Growth Resumption from Stationary Phase in Escherichia coli
Authors: Jõers Arvi , Vind Kristiina , Hernández Sara B. , Maruste Regina , Pereira Marta , Brauer Age , Remm Maido , Cava Felipe , Tenson Tanel
Published: December 2019

When nutrients run out, bacteria enter a dormant metabolic state. This low or undetectable metabolic activity helps bacteria to preserve their scant reserves for the future needs, yet it also diminishes their ability to scan the environment for new growth-promoting substrates. However, neighboring microbial growth is a reliable indicator of a favorable environment and can thus serve as a cue for exiting dormancy. Here we report that for Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa this cue is provided by the basic peptidoglycan unit (i.e. muropeptide). We show that several forms of muropeptides from a variety of bacterial species can stimulate growth resumption of dormant cells and the sugar – peptide bond is crucial for this activity. These results, together with previous research that identifies muropeptides as a germination signal for bacterial spores, and their detection by mammalian immune cells, show that muropeptides are a universal cue for bacterial growth.
Mediating role of attenuated physiological arousal on the association between psychopathic traits and fairness norm violation
Authors: Osumi Takahiro
Published: December 2019

The low-fear model of primary psychopathy has been supported by empirical findings such as attenuated physiological arousal in anticipation of threatening stimuli. The somatic marker hypothesis proposes that salient changes in the bodily state are processed as signals of whether a situation is good or bad and guide an individual to avoid potential adverse consequences. The present study aimed to elucidate the role that attenuated physiological arousal plays in the relationship between primary psychopathy and fairness norm violations both under the threat of punishment and under no potential for punishment. Primary psychopathy was associated with an attenuated skin conductance response prior to the choice of unfair monetary offers to another person, regardless of the potential for punishment. Attenuated skin conductance mediated the association between primary psychopathy and the choice of an unfair offer, especially in the no-punishment condition. However, in the punishment condition, primary psychopathy significantly predicted the choice of unfair offers even after controlling for the magnitude of skin conductance. The bodily response may have only a marginal effect on interpersonal decision-making under a threat of punishment. The present results suggest that the low-fear account of social norm violations as a function of primary psychopathy should be re-discussed.
A mouse model of subacute liver failure with ascites induced by step-wise increased doses of (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate
Authors: Wang Xiaoxiao , Yang Lumin , Wang Jiajia , Zhang Yafei , Dong Ruixia , Wu Ximing , Yang Chung S. , Zhang Zhenhua , Zhang Jinsong
Published: December 2019

Acute liver failure is divided into hyperacute, acute and subacute liver failure. Ascites is a common complication of subacute liver failure. Although animal models of acute liver failure have been established, the study of the pathogenesis of subacute liver failure with ascites complication is hampered by the lack of experimental animal model. The present study aimed at providing a mouse model of subacute liver failure with ascites complication. Kunming mice were intraperitoneally injected with (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a redox-active polyphenol from green tea, for 32 consecutive days with step-wise increased dosage. The EGCG treatment resulted in liver failure as evidenced by extensive hepatocyte necrosis observed histologically along with significant elevation of serum alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, total bilirubin and direct bilirubin levels as well as significant reduction of serum albumin. Liver fibrosis was not observed by Masson staining and fibrosis-associated proteins were not increased. The mortality was less than 12% and the survival mice developed noticeable ascites. Hepatic thioredoxin and glutathione systems were activated by the EGCG. These adaptive responses might render most mice tolerable to the EGCG treatment. The EGCG treatment significantly up-regulated renal urea transporter A1 and promoted its trafficking to apical membrane. These alterations, known to increase water reabsorption, may be responsible, at least in part, for the formation of the ascites. Overall, the mice treated with gradually elevated doses of EGCG exhibits some of the features observed in patients with subacute liver failure, especially ascites. This mouse model is a useful tool for investigating the pathogenesis of subacute liver failure with ascites complication.
The prognostic value of B7-H6 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhou Huan , Dong Jun , Guo Liyi , Wang Xicheng , Wang Kailin , Cai Xiuyu , Yang Shu
Published: December 2019

B7-H6, a member of the B7 family molecules, participates in the clearance of tumor cells by binding to NKp30 on NK cells. B7-H6 expression level in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and the clinical value remain unknown. The goal of this study was to determine the expression of B7-H6 in ESCC and further explore its clinical significance. We retrospectively collected the clinical data of 145 patients diagnosed with ESCC between January 2007 and December 2008. The expression of B7-H6 of the pathological tissue samples was detected by immunohistochemistry. The chi-square (χ2) test was used to analyse the relationships of B7-H6 and clinicopathological characteristics. Survival and hazard functions were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method, and survival between groups was compared using the two-sided log-rank test. The Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to adjust for the risk factors related to overall survival (OS). 133/145 (91.72%) of the ESCC tissue samples exhibited B7-H6 expression. The expression level of B7-H6 was correlated with T stage (P = 0.036) and lymphatic metastasis status (P = 0.044). High B7-H6 expression (P = 0.003) was associated with a significantly worse OS than low B7-H6 expression. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analysis demonstrated that tumour size (P = 0.021), B7-H6 expression (P = 0.025) and lymphatic metastasis status (P = 0.049) were independent prognostic factors of OS for ESCC. Collectively, our findings suggest that B7-H6 is widely expressed in ESCC samples. And B7-H6 may represent a predictor of poor prognosis for ESCC.
The Characteristics of Absorbency Under Load (AUL) for Superabsorbent and Soil Mixtures
Authors: Misiewicz Jakub , Lejcuś Krzysztof , Dąbrowska Jolanta , Marczak Daria
Published: December 2019

Various applications of superabsorbent polymers (SAP) include the use of these materials in agriculture and environmental engineering to increase soil water retention. Under such conditions, there is water absorption of the SAP in soil under load. This paper presents the results of absorbency under load (AUL) of a cross-linked copolymer of acrylamide and potassium acrylate mixed at ratios of 0.3%, 0.5% and 1.0% with coarse sand and sandy loam. The mixtures were subjected to loads equivalent to 10, 20 and 40 cm of soil. The highest differences in AUL values for both soils, compared to the control sample, were obtained after 24 hours and at a maximum load of 5.9 kPa, which corresponds to a load of a 40 cm thick topsoil layer. The AUL was 71.4 g∙g−1 for coarse sand and 52.7 g∙g−1 for sandy loam with a 1.0% SAP addition, which corresponded to 24.0% and 18.0%, respectively, of the absorption in the control sample. All the conducted tests revealed a significantly low rate of water absorbency, which is especially important for capturing the water that infiltrates into the soil profile. The results demonstrate that water absorption by SAPs decreased with the increase in SAP addition.
The synthesis of high-aspect-ratio Au microwires with a biomolecule for electrochemical sensing
Authors: Lv Lili , Han Xiangsheng , Wu Xiaochen , Li Chaoxu
Published: December 2019

Gold (Au) crystalline microwires with an unprecedented diameter of >500 nm and an aspect ratio >400 were synthesized using l-tyrosine as a reducing and capping agent.
Facile preparation of COF composite membranes for nanofiltration by stoichiometric spraying layer-by-layer self-assembly
Authors: Hao Shuang , Jiang Lu , Li Yongliang , Jia Zhiqian , Van der Bruggen Bart
Published: December 2019

COF–LZU1 membranes are prepared by a stoichiometric spraying layer-by-layer self-assembly method and the membranes display excellent performance for dye separation.
The protein–water nuclear Overhauser effect (NOE) as an indirect microscope for molecular surface mapping of interaction patterns
Authors: Honegger Philipp , Steinhauser Othmar
Published: December 2019

In this computational study, the intermolecular solute–solvent Nuclear Overhauser Effect (NOE) of the model protein ubiquitin in different chemical environments (free, bound to a partner protein and encapsulated) is investigated.
Solvation of cholesterol in different solvents: a molecular dynamics simulation study
Authors: Bux Khair , Moin Syed Tarique
Published: December 2019

Molecular dynamics simulations were applied to an isolated cholesterol immersed in four different solvents of varying polarity, such as water, methanol, dimethyl sulfoxide and benzene, to gain insights into the structural and dynamical properties.
An accurate potential energy surface and ring polymer molecular dynamics study of the Cl + CH4→ HCl + CH3reaction
Authors: Liu Yang , Li Jun
Published: December 2019

Thermal rate coefficients for the Cl + CH4/CD4reactions were studied on a new full-dimensional accurate potential energy surface with the spin–orbit corrections considered in the entrance channel.
Solvation properties of protic ionic liquids and molecular solvents
Authors: Yalcin Dilek , Drummond Calum J. , Greaves Tamar L.
Published: December 2019

Ionic liquids (ILs) are highly tailorable solvents with many potential applications. Knowledge about their solvation properties is highly beneficial in the utilization of ILs for specific tasks, though for many ILs this is currently unknown.
A universal solution processed interfacial bilayer enabling ohmic contact in organic and hybrid optoelectronic devices
Authors: Troughton Joel , Neophytou Marios , Gasparini Nicola , Seitkhan Akmaral , Isikgor Furkan H. , Song Xin , Lin Yen-Hung , Liu Tong , Faber Hendrik , Yengel Emre , Kosco Jan , Oszajca Marek F. , Hartmeier Benjamin , Rossier Michael , Lüchinger Norman A. , Tsetseris Leonidas , Snaith Henry J. , De Wolf Stefaan , Anthopoulos Thomas D. , McCulloch Iain , Baran Derya
Published: December 2019

A bilayer of Nb-TiO2 and bathocuproine forms a highly ohmic contact between a wide variety of semiconducting materials and metal electrodes. This enables performance and stability improvements in a range of electronic devices.
Role of nano-biochar in attenuating the allelopathic effect from Imperata cylindrica on rice seedlings
Authors: Shen Yu , Tang Haiyan , Wu Wenhao , Shang Heping , Zhang Di , Zhan Xinhua , Xing Baoshan
Published: December 2019

This study applies nano-BC to protect the native species, and reduce the negative effects of rice seedling growth and chlorophyll concentration, as well as oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation and stress gene expressions from invasive species.
Online laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy for metal-particle powder flow analysis during additive manufacturing
Authors: Sdvizhenskii P. A. , Lednev V. N. , Asyutin R. D. , Grishin M. Ya. , Tretyakov R. S. , Pershin S. M.
Published: December 2019

The analysis of the metal powder flow during an additive manufacturing process was carried out by laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS).
The online detection of carbon isotopes by laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy
Authors: Zhang Qihang , Liu Yuzhu , Yin Wenyi , Yan Yihui , Tang Qiyang , Xing Guanhua
Published: December 2019

The study of the carbon cycle is profound to the global ecosystem.
Novel perylene-based organic dyes for electro-fluidic displays
Authors: Li Shi , Ye Dechao , Henzen Alex , Deng Yong , Zhou Guofu
Published: December 2019

Electro-fluidic displays (EFDs) are one of the most promising reflective displays due to their full color and video speed.
Synthesis of a monofunctional glycoluril molecular clip via cyclic imide formation on the convex site
Authors: Urbaniak Malgorzata , Gosecki Mateusz , Gostynski Bartlomiej , Gosecka Monika
Published: December 2019

We present a simple synthesis of a monohydroxylated glycoluril clip derivative prone to homodimerization from diester or diethanolamide clip derivatives.
Exploiting the protein corona: coating of black phosphorus nanosheets enables macrophage polarization via calcium influx
Authors: Mo Jianbin , Xu Yun , Wang Xiuxiu , Wei Wei , Zhao Jing
Published: December 2019

BPNSs covered with plasma corona could promote the activation and polarization of macrophages and enhance the anticancer ability of macrophages.
Phosphorus removal and mechanisms by Zn-layered double hydroxide (Zn-LDHs)-modified zeolite substrates in a constructed rapid infiltration system
Authors: Zhang Xiangling , Gao Jingtian , Lei Yu , Xu Zhouying , Xia Shibin , Jiang Yinghe , Cheng Jing
Published: December 2019

The Zn-LDHs-modified zeolites were synthesized and used as substrate of CRIS to remove phosphorus from wastewater by adsorption, interception, ion exchange and microbial action, which have outstanding performance than original zeolite.
New red-emitting phosphor RbxK3−xSiF7:Mn4+ (x = 0, 1, 2, 3): DFT predictions and synthesis
Authors: Jang Seunghun , Park June Kyu , Kim Minseuk , Sohn Kee-Sun , Kim Chang Hae , Chang Hyunju
Published: December 2019

We performed first-principles calculations for pristine and Mn-doped RbxK3−xSiF7 and predicted their various properties. In addition, we synthesized Rb2KSiF7:Mn4+ as a stable red phosphor and verified its PL properties, structure, and stability.
The photogenerated charge characteristics in Ni@NiO/CdS hybrids for increased photocatalytic H2 generation
Authors: Zhang Lijing , Zhu Xiufang , Zhao Yuanyuan , Zhang Pengyu , Chen Jing , Jiang Jinlong , Xie Tengfeng
Published: December 2019

NiO reduces the H2 evolution overpotential, which is the main reason for the improvement in the photocatalytic H2 evolution activity of Ni/CdS.
An NIR-triggered drug release and highly efficient photodynamic therapy from PCL/PNIPAm/porphyrin modified graphene oxide nanoparticles with the Janus morphology
Authors: Khoee Sepideh , Sadeghi Amirhossein
Published: December 2019

This project aimed to investigate the synthesis and characteristics of stimuli-responsive nanoparticles with different morphologies.
Polypyrrole nanoparticles-based soft actuator for artificial muscle applications
Authors: Khan Ajahar , Alamry Khalid A. , Jain Ravi Kant
Published: December 2019

Currently, a straightforward fabrication technique for the development of soft actuators to explore their potential in robotic applications using environmentally compatible raw materials represents an important challenge.
Hydrolysis and oxidation of protein and lipids in dry-salted grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) as affected by partial substitution of NaCl with KCl and amino acids
Authors: Guo Xiuyun , Chen Shanan , Cao Jiayue , Zhou Jingying , Chen Yanzheng , Jamali Muneer Ahmed , Zhang Yawei
Published: December 2019

To obtain healthier meat products with reduced Na content, the salt substitute containingl-histidine andl-lysine was compared with NaCl in the hydrolysis and oxidation of protein and lipids of dry-salted fish during processing.
Facile route for C–N/Nb2O5 nanonet synthesis based on 2-methylimidazole for visible-light driven photocatalytic degradation of Rhodamine B
Authors: Qaraah Fahim A. , Mahyoub Samah A. , Hafez Mahmoud Elsayed , Xiu Guangli
Published: December 2019

Solar energy utilization: facile synthesis route of C–N/Nb2O5NNs using 2-methylimidazole to enhance its photocatalytic degradation towards RhB under visible irradiation.
In situ interfacial surface modification of hydrophilic silica nanoparticles by two organosilanes leading to stable Pickering emulsions
Authors: Itzhaik Alkotzer Yafit , Grzegorzewski Franziska , Belausov Eduard , Zelinger Einat , Mechrez Guy
Published: December 2019

Oil-in-water Pickering emulsions are stabilized by in situ functionalization of hydrophilic silica nanoparticles with two organosilane precursors of opposite polarity in a two-step emulsification procedure.
Retracted Article: LncRNA ZEB2-AS1 regulates the drug resistance of acute myeloid leukemiaviathe miR-142-3p/INPP4B axis
Authors: Wang Kai , Dai Jing , Liu Tao , Wang Qiong , Pang Yingxu
Published: December 2019

Dysregulation of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) has been reported to participate in the process of chemoresistance in multiple cancers, including acute myeloid leukemia (AML).
Graphene platelet reinforced copper composites for improved tribological and thermal properties
Authors: Wu Mingxia , Chen Zhe , Huang Chunjie , Huang Kunlan , Jiang Kyle , Liu Jian
Published: December 2019

The uniform dispersion and self-lubricating property of GPLs enhance both the tribological and thermal performances.
Dendritic fibrous nano-silica & titania (DFNST) spheres as novel cataluminescence sensing materials for the detection of diethyl ether
Authors: Wang Yabin , Hu Keke , Zhang Yantu , Ding Xiuping
Published: December 2019

Dendritic fibrous nano-silica & titania (DFNST) nanospheres have been successfully prepared as the sensing materials for the detection of diethyl ether via a DFNST-based cataluminescence (CTL) sensor.
Retracted Article: MicroRNA-1271 modulates hepatitis B virus replication, cell proliferation and apoptosis in hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma by targeting SIRT1
Authors: Tang Fei , Wang Fengmei , Lv Hongmin , Xiang Huiling , Liu Yi , Liu Ping
Published: December 2019

MiR-1271 suppressed HBV-related HCC cells development by downregulating SIRT1.
Probing structural transformation and optical and magnetic properties in Cr doped GdMnO3: Jahn–Teller distortion, photoluminescence and magnetic switching effect
Authors: Tiwari Priyanka , Kumar Sandeep , Rath Chandana
Published: December 2019

The systematic evolution of structure, photoluminescence and different magnetic transitions in GdMnO3is reported after Cr doping.
Poly(styrene-ran-cinnamic acid) (SCA), an approach to modified polystyrene with enhanced impact toughness, heat resistance and melt strength
Authors: Wang Jie , Yu Zixin , Li Peihua , Ding Dachuan , Zheng Xuan , Hu Chuanqun , Hu Tao , Gong Xinghou , Chang Ying , Wu Chonggang
Published: December 2019

Carboxyl-bearing cinnamic-acid copolymerised polystyrene exhibits enhanced impact toughness, heat resistance and melt strength due to its reversible hydrogen bond cross-linking.
Ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry-based metabolomics reveals Huangqiliuyi decoction attenuates abnormal metabolism as a novel therapeutic opportunity for type 2 diabetes
Authors: Xu Jiao , Jiang Zhe-hui , Liu Xiu-bo , Ma Yan , Ma Wei , Ma Ling
Published: December 2019

Background: As a typical chronic metabolic disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus causes a heavy health-care burden to society.
Large scale relative protein ligand binding affinities using non-equilibrium alchemy
Authors: Gapsys Vytautas , Pérez-Benito Laura , Aldeghi Matteo , Seeliger Daniel , van Vlijmen Herman , Tresadern Gary , de Groot Bert L.
Published: December 2019

Relative ligand binding affinity calculations based on molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and non-physical (alchemical) thermodynamic cycles have shown great promise for structure-based drug design.
Base induced isomerisation of a phosphaethynolato-borane: mechanistic insights into boryl migration and decarbonylation to afford a triplet phosphinidene
Authors: Wilson Daniel W. N. , Franco Mauricio P. , Myers William K. , McGrady John E. , Goicoechea Jose M.
Published: December 2019

We report on the (tert-butyl)isocyanide-catalysed isomersation of a phosphaethynolato-borane, [B]OCP, to its linkage isomer, a phosphaketenyl-borane, [B]PCO.
Competing forces in the self-assembly of amide-functionalized discotic mesogens
Authors: Yoshida Jun , Bozek Kevin J. A. , Thompson John R. , Williams Vance E.
Published: December 2019

The effect of incorporating a single amide group on the self-assembly of discotic mesogens was examined.
Flow properties reveal the particle-to-polymer transition of ultra-low crosslinked microgels
Authors: Scotti Andrea , Brugnoni Monia , G. Lopez Carlos , Bochenek Steffen , Crassous Jérôme J. , Richtering Walter
Published: December 2019

Solutions of ultra-low crosslinked microgels show viscoelastic properties in between rigid particles and flexible polymers. The dominance of particle-like and polymer-like behavior depends on the concentration of microgel in solution.
Chiral stresses in nematic cell monolayers
Authors: Hoffmann Ludwig A. , Schakenraad Koen , Merks Roeland M. H. , Giomi Luca
Published: December 2019

We discuss the microscopic origin of chiral stresses in nematic cell monolayers and investigate how chirality affects the motion of topological defects, as well as the collective motion in stripe-shaped domains.
A phosphorus and carbon composite containing nanocrystalline Sb as a stable and high-capacity anode for sodium ion batteries
Authors: Zhang Miao , Ouyang Liuzhang , Zhu Min , Fang Fang , Liu Jiangwen , Liu Zongwen
Published: December 2019

Sodium ion batteries are a potential alternative to lithium ion batteries due to the low cost and natural abundance of sodium.
Water-stable 2-D Zr MOFs with exceptional UO22+ sorption capability
Authors: Panagiotou Nikos , Liatsou Ioanna , Pournara Anastasia , Angeli Giasemi K. , Giappa Rafaela Maria , Tylianakis Emmanuel , Manos Manolis J. , Froudakis George E. , Trikalitis Pantelis N. , Pashalidis Ioannis , Tasiopoulos Anastasios J.
Published: December 2019

Two 2-D Zr4+ MOFs displaying microporous structures, remarkable stability, exceptional UO22+ sorption capacity and ability to sorb and immobilize UO22+ ions from various types of real-world aqueous media are reported.
Enhanced Na+ pseudocapacitance in a P, S co-doped carbon anode arising from the surface modification by sulfur and phosphorus with C–S–P coupling
Authors: Yan Jie , Li Wei , Feng Pingyuan , Wang Ruxing , Jiang Mao , Han Jing , Cao Shengling , Wang Kangli , Jiang Kai
Published: December 2019

Enhanced phosphorus (7.2 wt%) and sulfur (15.7 wt%) co-doped carbon (PSC) is synthesized via a one-step sintering of carbon disulfide and red phosphorus in a vacuum.
PEGylated gold nanoparticles promoted rapid macromolecular chain-end transformation and formation of injectable hydrogels
Authors: Nutan Bhingaradiya , Jewrajka Suresh K.
Published: December 2019

Highly stable PEGylated Au NPs with low grafting density exhibit significant effect towards azide–alkyne click cycloaddition and Michael addition reactions leading to rapid formation of injectable hydrogels and biologically relevant macromolecules.
A single-liquid miniature biofuel cell with boosting power densityviagas diffusion bioelectrodes
Authors: Wan Jing , Mi Li , Tian Zhaoyan , Li Quan , Liu Songqin
Published: December 2019

A single-liquid glucose–O2cell is constructed by gas diffusion electrode. O2diffusion directly from air to active sites of enzyme enhances the enzymatic reaction rate. The maximum power output density of the cell is 53 μW cm−2.
Responsivity improvement of a packaged ZnMgO solar blind ultraviolet photodetector via a sealing treatment of silica gel
Authors: Chen Xing , Wang Liyan , Liu Kewei , Zhang Zhenzhong , Li Binghui , Wu Jiabin , Wang Jingyuan , Ni Yingxue , Shen Dezhen
Published: December 2019

A packaged high performance ZnMgO solar-blind UV photodetector is prepared via a silica gel sealing treatment. The responsivity and stability of the device is improved according to this sealing treatment.
A beginner's guide to bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET)
Authors: Sauvageau Etienne , Lefrancois Stephane
Published: December 2019

The Beginner's Guides are an ongoing series of articles in the magazine, each one covering a key technique and offering the scientifically literate but not necessarily expert audience a background briefing on the underlying science of a technique that is (or will be) widely used in molecular bioscience. The series covers a mixture of techniques, including some that are well established amongst a subset of our readership but not necessarily familiar to those in different specialisms. This Beginner's Guide covers bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET).
Novel SOI LIGBT with fast‐switching by the electric field modulation
Authors: Sun Licheng , Duan Baoxing , Yang Yintang
Published: December 2019

A novel silicon‐on‐insulator lateral insulated gate bipolar transistor (SOI LIGBT) is proposed and investigated in this work. The device features a single‐step buried oxide (SSBO) structure formed on the silicon‐on‐insulator (SOI) layer. The SSBO structure introduces a high electric field peak by the electric field modulation to modulate electric field distributions. Therefore, the proposed SOI LIGBT can maintain the high breakdown voltage (BV) while shortening the length of drift region, which achieves the decreased total number of stored carriers during the turn‐on and fast depletion of drift region during the turn‐off. As the simulation results show, under the same BV of 98 V, the drift region length of the proposed SOI LIGBT is 4.4 μm, which is much shorter than that of the conventional SOI LIGBT of 12.0 μm. So the turn‐off time of SSBO SOI LIGBT is 76.6% lower than that of the conventional SOI LIGBT at the same forward voltage drop of 1.72 V. It shows that the tradeoff between forward voltage drop and turn‐off time can be significantly improved.
Antibacterial properties of silver coated regenerated cellulose
Authors: Slepička Petr , Slepičková Kasálková Nikola , Pišlová Marketa , Kotrba Kamil , Švorčík Václav
Published: December 2019

This work is focused on the study and characterisation of surface properties of regenerated cellulose after plasma modification, which significantly affects its physical and chemical properties such as wettability, surface chemistry, and surface morphology. Depending on the selected parameters, such as the plasma exposure time of the substrate, its aging and the sputtering time with silver, the modified material was studied in different analytical methods. The ablation of the substrate was determined gravimetrically. Changes in surface roughness were detected by atomic force microscopy and chemical changes were studied with X‐ray spectroscopy (XPS). Silver nanolayers were sputtered on the activated substrate and the antibacterial properties of these layers were studied. It has been determined the aging period for surface‐treated under different exposure time, gravimetric analysis has shown almost linear mass loss with plasma treatment time, the surface roughness slightly decreases with the action of plasma. XPS analysis revealed that the oxygen content increased due to the higher reactivity of the surface of the modified cellulose. Antibacterial tests have shown that the silver layer sputtered on plasma activated regenerated cellulose significantly reduces the colonies of both Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus epidermidis.