bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validity of an observational assessment tool for multifaceted evaluation of faecal condition
Authors: Ohno Harumi , Murakami Haruka , Tanisawa Kumpei , Konishi Kana , Miyachi Motohiko
Published: March 2019

Faecal volume, form, colour, and odour are associated with various diseases, dietary habits, and the gut microbiome. Multifaceted assessment of faecal condition will be needed for future research and practice. Faecal observation has advantages, as it is non-invasive, frequent, and easy. We have developed and validated an illustrative card tool for comprehensively faecal assessment. In 38 healthy adults, observations of volume, form, colour, and odour of faeces using the tool were compared to the objective characteristics of the actual faeces determined using a weighing scale, moisture meter, hardness meter, colourimeter, and odour measuring device. A significant positive correlation (ρ = 0.778) was observed between the number of faecal model (2 cm × 10 cm) units and the actual weight. The Bristol Stool Form Scale showed a significant positive correlation with the moisture content (ρ = 0.717) and negative correlations with faecal hardness (ρ = −0.843) and adhesiveness (ρ = −0.761). The L*a*b* colour space values of the stool differed significantly among observational judgments using the colour card tool. No significant correlation was observed between the observation of odour and the measured odour index. In conclusion, the faecal volume, form, and colour can be estimated by observation using the multifaceted assessment card tool.
The degradation of levofloxacin in infusions exposed to daylight with an identification of a degradation product with HPLC-MS
Authors: Czyrski Andrzej , Anusiak Katarzyna , Teżyk Artur
Published: March 2019

In this paper the decomposition product of levofloxacin was identified. Levofloxacin was dissolved in 0.9% NaCl, 5% glucose, and Ringer’s solution. The solutions were divided into two batches: the first one was exposed to daylight and the second one was protected from it. The solutions were stored at the room temperature. The qualitative analysis of the degradation product was performed using MS and TOF detectors. The quantitative assay was done by a validated HPLC method. Visual inspection and pH assessment were done. Levofloxacin protected from daylight remained stable in 0.9% NaCl, 5% dextrose, and Ringer’s solution. A slight decomposition of the analyte was observed in the solutions exposed to daylight with the fastest decomposition rate in Ringer’s solution as compared with 0.9% NaCl and 5% dextrose solutions. The degradation product of levofloxacin detected with MS was levofloxacin N-oxide. Levofloxacin solutions should be protected from direct daylight to maintain drug stability. Levofloxacin N-oxide is formed regardless of the solvent used.
The Transmembrane Conformation of the Influenza B Virus M2 Protein in Lipid Bilayers
Authors: Mandala Venkata S. , Liao Shu-Yu , Gelenter Martin D. , Hong Mei
Published: March 2019

Influenza A and B viruses cause seasonal flu epidemics. The M2 protein of influenza B (BM2) is a membrane-embedded tetrameric proton channel that is essential for the viral lifecycle. BM2 is a functional analog of AM2 but shares only 24% sequence identity for the transmembrane (TM) domain. The structure and function of AM2, which is targeted by two antiviral drugs, have been well characterized. In comparison, much less is known about the structure of BM2 and no drug is so far available to inhibit this protein. Here we use solid-state NMR spectroscopy to investigate the conformation of BM2(1–51) in phospholipid bilayers at high pH, which corresponds to the closed state of the channel. Using 2D and 3D correlation NMR experiments, we resolved and assigned the13C and15N chemical shifts of 29 residues of the TM domain, which yielded backbone (φ, ψ) torsion angles. Residues 6–28 form a well-ordered α-helix, whereas residues 1–5 and 29–35 display chemical shifts that are indicative of random coil or β-sheet conformations. The length of the BM2-TM helix resembles that of AM2-TM, despite their markedly different amino acid sequences. In comparison, large15N chemical shift differences are observed between bilayer-bound BM2 and micelle-bound BM2, indicating that the TM helix conformation and the backbone hydrogen bonding in lipid bilayers differ from the micelle-bound conformation. Moreover, HNchemical shifts of micelle-bound BM2 lack the periodic trend expected for coiled coil helices, which disagree with the presence of a coiled coil structure in micelles. These results establish the basis for determining the full three-dimensional structure of the tetrameric BM2 to elucidate its proton-conduction mechanism.
Coherent Response of Vietnam and Sumatra-Java Upwellings to Cross-Equatorial Winds
Authors: Wu Chau-Ron , Wang Li-Chiao , Wang You-Lin , Lin Yong-Fu , Chiang Tzu-Ling , Hsin Yi-Chia
Published: March 2019

Upwelling off Vietnam in the South China Sea (SCS) and the Sumatra–Java upwelling in the Indian Ocean significantly modulate regional variation in climate. Although located in different hemispheres, these upwellings nearly concur during the boreal summer; both are the result of wind-induced Ekman divergence. Beyond seasonal time scales, the two upwellings were not synchronous in 1998. In the summer of 1998, upwelling off Vietnam was almost absent, generating the warmest summer on record in the SCS. We demonstrated that the El Niño–Southern Oscillation, which was highly correlated with the upwelling in previous studies, was not solely responsible for this variability. Wind trajectory analyses revealed that cross-equatorial winds, which had passed over the Sumatra–Java upwelling site about 2 weeks earlier, were a rapid force acting on SCS summer upwelling. In the summer of 1998, SCS winds were greatly perturbed due to an anomalous wind path that blew toward the SCS through the Sulu Sea. Our findings suggest that not only the resulting weakening but also the perturbation of the SCS winds prevented the formation of summer upwelling off central Vietnam in that year.
Fabrication of nanoribbons by dielectrophoresis assisted cold welding of gold nanoparticles on mica substrate
Authors: Cha Song-Hyun , Kang Se-Hyeon , Lee You Jeong , Kim Jae-Hyun , Ahn Eun-Young , Park Youmie , Cho Seonho
Published: March 2019

Using alternating current electric fields, nanoribbons are fabricated from an aqueous suspension of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) on mica substrate without resorting to further chemical functionalization of AuNPs. The potential and kinetic energies of AuNPs subjected to attractive forces from a mica substrate provide sufficient energy to pass the diffusion barrier of the gold atoms, which eventually leads to cold welding. A dielectrophoresis force exerted on polarizable particles in a non-uniform electric field contributes to the directed growth of the cold welding that occurs by adjusting the lattice structures of AuNPs. Depending on the concentration of the AuNP suspension, the frequency of the electric field, and the geometry of electrodes, various morphologies of nanoribbons are fabricated. It turns out that the welded region is nearly perfect to provide the same crystal orientation and strength as the rest of the nanostructures, which can be extensively utilized in the fabrication of various nanostructures.
Evaluation of offset of conjunctival hyperemia induced by a Rho-kinase inhibitor; 0.4% Ripasudil ophthalmic solution clinical trial
Authors: Sakamoto Emi , Ishida Waka , Sumi Tamaki , Kishimoto Tatsuma , Tada Kentaro , Fukuda Ken , Yoneda Tsuyoshi , Kuroiwa Hajime , Terao Etsuko , Fujisawa Yasuko , Nakakura Shunsuke , Jian Koji , Okumichi Hideaki , Kiuchi Yoshiaki , Fukushima Atsuki
Published: March 2019

Glaucoma leads to irreversible blindness. Numerous anti-glaucoma eye drops have been developed. Unfortunately, many patients with glaucoma still suffer from progressive visual disorders. Recently, ripasudil hydrochloride hydrate, a selective Rho-associated protein kinase inhibitor, was launched for the treatment of glaucoma. However, adverse events, such as conjunctival hyperemia, are often noted in clinical trials using healthy subjects. Therefore, we investigated the onset, offset, and kinetic changes of conjunctival hyperemia induced by ripasudil ophthalmic solution in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension who had already been treated with anti-glaucoma eye drops other than ripasudil. Conjunctival hyperemia was evaluated by both clinical grading by 3 ophthalmic physicians and pixel coverage of conjunctival blood vessels determined by conjunctival hyperemia-analyzing software. Conjunctival hyperemia appeared within 10 min post-instillation in most of the participants. Clinical grade and pixel coverage increased significantly 10 min post-instillation and then decreased. In most of the participants, hyperemia resolved within 2 h. Median conjunctival hyperemia offset was 90 min. A tendency of monotonic increase was observed between clinical grade and pixel coverage. Taken altogether, hyperemia induced by ripasudil was transient in glaucoma patients who had already been treated with anti-glaucoma eye drops other than ripasudil.
Perovskite ferroelectric tuned by thermal strain
Authors: Tyunina M. , Pacherova O. , Peräntie J. , Savinov M. , Jelinek M. , Jantunen H. , Dejneka A.
Published: March 2019

Modern environmental and sustainability issues as well as the growing demand for applications in the life sciences and medicine put special requirements to the chemical composition of many functional materials. To achieve desired performance within these requirements, innovative approaches are needed. In this work, we experimentally demonstrate that thermal strain can effectively tune the crystal structure and versatile properties of relatively thick films of environmentally friendly, biocompatible, and low-cost perovskite ferroelectric barium titanate. The strain arises during post-deposition cooling due to a mismatch between the thermal expansion coefficients of the films and the substrate materials. The strain-induced in-plane polarization enables excellent performance of bottom-to-top barium titanate capacitors akin to that of exemplary lead-containing relaxor ferroelectrics. Our work shows that controlling thermal strain can help tailor response functions in a straightforward manner.
Description and Verification of the Fundamental Current Mechanisms in Silicon Carbide Schottky Barrier Diodes
Authors: Nicholls Jordan , Dimitrijev Sima , Tanner Philip , Han Jisheng
Published: March 2019

Attempts to model the current through Schottky barrier diodes using the two fundamental mechanisms of thermionic emission and tunnelling are adversely impacted by defects and second order effects. This has led to the publication of countless different models to account for these effects, including some with non-physical parameters. Recently, we have developed silicon carbide Schottky barrier diodes that do not suffer from second order effects, such as excessive leakage, carrier generation and recombination, and non-uniform barrier height. In this paper, we derive the foundational current equations to establish clear links between the fundamental current mechanisms and the governing parameters. Comparing these equations with measured current–voltage characteristics, we show that the fundamental equations for tunnelling and thermionic emission can accurately model 4H silicon carbide Schottky barrier diodes over a large temperature and voltage range. Based on the obtained results, we discuss implications and misconceptions regarding barrier inhomogeneity, barrier height measurement, and reverse-bias temperature dependencies.
Adsorption mechanism of Cr(VI) onto GO/PAMAMs composites
Authors: Liu Han , Zhang Fan , Peng Zhiyuan
Published: March 2019

Graphene oxide/polyamidoamine dendrimers (GO/PAMAMs) composites were used to remove Cr(VI) from simulated effluents, the adsorption kinetics and thermodynamics of Cr(VI) onto GO/PAMAMs were systematically investigated. The results showed that the optimum pH value was 2.5, the removal percentage reached 90.7% for 30 mg/L of Cr(VI) within 120 min. The adsorption process was well described by pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The maximum adsorption capacities of Cr(VI) onto GO/PAMAMs were found to be 131.58, 183.82 and 211.42 mg/g at 293.15, 303.15 and 313.15 K, respectively, which were calculated from the Langmuir model equation. The adsorption thermodynamic parameters indicate that the adsorption of Cr(VI) onto GO/PAMAMs is a spontaneous endothermic process. The XPS analysis reveals the adsorption and removal mechanism of Cr(VI) on GO/PAMAMs that first the Cr(VI) binds to the protonated amine of GO/PAMAMs, then Cr(VI) be reduced to Cr(III) with the assistance of π-electrons on the carbocyclic six-membered ring of GO in GO/PAMAMs, and then Cr(III) was released into solution under the electrostatic repulsion between the Cr(III) and the protonated amine groups.
B-cell translocation gene 2 enhances fibroblast growth factor 21 production by inducing Kruppel-like factor 15
Authors: Kim Yong Deuk , Hwang Seung-Lark , Jeon Hwang-Ju , Jeon Yong Hyun , Nedumaran Balachandar , Kim Kyeongsoon , Lee Sung-Eun
Published: March 2019

Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) is a hormone that is vital for the regulation of metabolic homeostasis. In the present study, we report that Kruppel-like factor 15 (KLF15) is a novel mediator of b-cell translocation gene 2 (BTG2)-induced FGF21 biosynthesis. The expression levels of hepatic Fgf21, Btg2, and Klf15, and the production of serum FGF21 increased significantly in fasted and forskolin (FSK)-treated mice. The overexpression of Btg2 using an adenoviral delivery system elevated FGF21 production by upregulating Klf15 transcription. Interaction studies indicated that BTG2 was co-immunoprecipitated with KLF15 and recruited by the Fgf21 promoter. The disruption of hepatic Btg2 and Klf15 genes markedly attenuated the induction of Fgf21 expression and FGF21 biosynthesis in fasted mice. Similarly, the FSK-mediated induction of Fgf21 promoter activity was strikingly ablated by silencing of Btg2 and Klf15. Taken together, these findings suggest that KLF15 and BTG2 are mediators of fasting-induced hepatic FGF21 expression. Therefore, targeting BTG2 and KLF15 might be a therapeutically important strategy for combat metabolic dysfunction.
Promotion of osteogenic differentiation by non-thermal biocompatible plasma treated chitosan scaffold
Authors: Li Ying , Kim Ji Hye , Choi Eun Ha , Han Ihn
Published: March 2019

Non-thermal biocompatible plasma (NBP) has recently emerged as an attractive tool for surface modification of biomaterials in tissue engineering. Three dimensional chitosan scaffolds have been widely used in bone tissue engineering due to biodegradable and biocompatible properties. The present study aimed to evaluate osteogenic potential of NBP treated chitosan scaffold. The surface characteristics of scaffolds were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), cell proliferation and differentiation was tested with osteoprogenitor cell line MC3T3-E1. The results show that NBP modified scaffold increase cell metabolic by MTT assay and live/dead assay. More importantly, we evidenced enhancement of osteogenic differentiation on NBP treated scaffolds by an increase of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, high degree of extracellular mineralization and up-regulated osteogenic marker genes expression level. The findings in our study highlighted NBP as the innovative method to modified chitosan scaffold and to fine-tuning the scaffold a more suitable and beneficial biomaterial for in vivo bone tissue engineering and clinical bone defects therapies.
Pyruvate-depleting conditions induce biofilm dispersion and enhance the efficacy of antibiotics in killing biofilms in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Goodwine James , Gil Joel , Doiron Amber , Valdes Jose , Solis Michael , Higa Alex , Davis Stephen , Sauer Karin
Published: March 2019

The formation of biofilms is a developmental process initiated by planktonic cells transitioning to the surface, which comes full circle when cells disperse from the biofilm and transition to the planktonic mode of growth. Considering that pyruvate has been previously demonstrated to be required for the formation of P. aeruginosa biofilms, we asked whether pyruvate likewise contributes to the maintenance of the biofilm structure, with depletion of pyruvate resulting in dispersion. Here, we demonstrate that the enzymatic depletion of pyruvate coincided with the dispersion of established biofilms by S. aureus and laboratory and clinical P. aeruginosa isolates. The dispersion response was dependent on pyruvate fermentation pathway components but independent of proteins previously described to contribute to P. aeruginosa biofilm dispersion. Using porcine second-degree burn wounds infected with P. aeruginosa biofilm cells, we furthermore demonstrated that pyruvate depletion resulted in a reduction of biofilm biomass in vivo. Pyruvate-depleting conditions enhanced the efficacy of tobramycin killing of the resident wound biofilms by up to 5-logs. Our findings strongly suggest the management of pyruvate availability to be a promising strategy to combat biofilm-related infections by two principal pathogens associated with wound and cystic fibrosis lung infections.
Large Liver Blood Vessels and Bile Ducts Are Not Damaged by Electrochemotherapy with Bleomycin in Pigs
Authors: Zmuc Jan , Gasljevic Gorana , Sersa Gregor , Edhemovic Ibrahim , Boc Nina , Seliskar Alenka , Plavec Tanja , Brloznik Maja , Milevoj Nina , Brecelj Erik , Kos Bor , Izlakar Jani , Jarm Tomaz , Snoj Marko , Stukelj Marina , Miklavcic Damijan , Cemazar Maja
Published: March 2019

The first clinical studies on the use of electrochemotherapy to treat liver tumours that were not amenable to surgery or thermal ablation techniques have recently been published. However, there is still a lack of data on the effects of electrochemotherapy on normal liver tissue. Therefore, we designed a translational animal model study to test whether electrochemotherapy with bleomycin causes clinically significant damage to normal liver tissue, with emphasis on large blood vessels and bile ducts. We performed electrochemotherapy with bleomycin or delivered electric pulses alone using a potentially risky treatment strategy in eight pigs. Two and seven days after treatment, livers were explanted, and histological analysis was performed. Blood samples were collected before treatment and again before euthanasia to evaluate blood biomarkers of liver function and systemic inflammatory response. We found no thrombosis or other clinically significant damage to large blood vessels and bile ducts in the liver. No clinical or laboratory findings suggested impaired liver function or systemic inflammatory response. Electrochemotherapy with bleomycin does not cause clinically significant damage to normal liver tissue. Our study provides further evidence that electrochemotherapy with bleomycin is safe for treatment of patients with tumours near large blood vessels in the liver.
Imaging Amyloplasts in the Developing Endosperm of Barley and Rice
Authors: Matsushima Ryo , Hisano Hiroshi
Published: March 2019

Amyloplasts are plant-specific organelles responsible for starch biosynthesis and storage. Inside amyloplasts, starch forms insoluble particles, referred to as starch grains (SGs). SG morphology differs between species and SG morphology is particularly diverse in the endosperm of Poaceae plants, such as rice (Oryza sativa) and barley (Hordeum vulgare), which form compound SGs and simple SGs, respectively. SG morphology has been extensively imaged, but the comparative imaging of amyloplast morphology has been limited. In this study, SG-containing amyloplasts in the developing endosperm were visualized using stable transgenic barley and rice lines expressing amyloplast stroma-targeted green fluorescent protein fused to the transit peptide (TP) of granule-bound starch synthase I (TP-GFP). The TP-GFP barley and rice plants had elongated amyloplasts containing multiple SGs, with constrictions between the SGs. In barley, some amyloplasts were connected by narrow protrusions extending from their surfaces. Transgenic rice lines producing amyloplast membrane-localized SUBSTANDARD STARCH GRAIN6 (SSG6)-GFP were used to demonstrate that the developing amyloplasts contained multiple compound SGs. TP-GFP barley can be used to visualize the chloroplasts in leaves and other plastids in pollen and root in addition to the endosperm, therefore it provides as a useful tool to observe diverse plastids.
Fully Bio-Based Hybrid Composites Made of Wood, Fungal Mycelium and Cellulose Nanofibrils
Authors: Sun Wenjing , Tajvidi Mehdi , Hunt Christopher G. , McIntyre Gavin , Gardner Douglas J.
Published: March 2019

Novel hybrid panel composites based on wood, fungal mycelium, and cellulose nanofibrils (CNF) were developed and investigated in the present study. In one set of experiments, mycelium was grown on softwood particles to produce mycelium-modified wood which was then hybridized with various levels of CNF as binder. The other set of experiments were conducted on unmodified wood particles mixed with CNF and pure mycelium tissue. It was found that the composites made of mycelium-modified wood and CNF resulted in enhanced physical and mechanical properties compared to the ones made by physically mixing wood, mycelium, and CNF. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images showed that mycelium modification covered wood particles with a network of fungal hyphae whereas CNF formed a uniform mycelial film over wood particles. Mycelium modification had a significant effect on reducing water absorption and thickness swelling of the hybrid composites and CNF increased the modulus of rupture and modulus of elasticity, optimally at 2.5% addition. We also present results and analysis pertaining to the development of unique lightweight composite systems with physical and mechanical properties optimized at 5% CNF addition with potential to be used in packaging and furniture applications.
Production and Anticancer Activity of an L-Asparaginase from Bacillus licheniformis Isolated from the Red Sea, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alrumman S. A. , Mostafa Y. S. , Al-izran Kholood A. , Alfaifi M. Y. , Taha T. H. , Elbehairi S. E.
Published: March 2019

Microbial L-asparaginase (ASNase) is an important anticancer agent that is used extensively worldwide. In this study, 40 bacterial isolates were obtained from the Red Sea of Saudi Arabia and screened for ASNase production using a qualitative rapid plate assay, 28 of which were producing large L-asparagine hydrolysis zones. The ASNase production of the immobilized bacterial cells was more favorable than that of freely suspended cells. A promising isolate, KKU-KH14, was identified by 16S rRNA gene sequencing as Bacillus licheniformis. Maximal ASNase production was achieved using an incubation period of 72 h, with an optimum of pH 6.5, an incubation temperature of 37 °C, an agitation rate 250 rpm, and with glucose and (NH4)2SO4 used as the carbon and nitrogen sources, respectively. The glutaminase activity was not detected in the ASNase preparations. The purified ASNase showed a final specific activity of 36.08 U/mg, and the molecular weight was found to be 37 kDa by SDS-PAGE analysis. The maximum activity and stability of the purified enzyme occurred at pH values of 7.5 and 8.5, respectively, with maximum activity at 37 °C and complete thermal stability at 70 °C for 1 h. The Km and Vmax values of the purified enzyme were 0.049995 M and of 45.45 μmol/ml/min, respectively. The anticancer activity of the purified ASNase showed significant toxic activity toward HepG-2 cells (IC50 11.66 µg/mL), which was greater than that observed against MCF-7 (IC50 14.55 µg/mL) and HCT-116 cells (IC50 17.02 µg/mL). The results demonstrated that the Red Sea is a promising biological reservoir, as shown by the isolation of B. licheniformis, which produces a glutaminase free ASNase and may be a potential candidate for further pharmaceutical use as an anticancer drug.
A dichotomy between model responses of tropical ascent and descent to surface warming
Authors: Su Hui , Zhai Chengxing , Jiang Jonathan H. , Wu Longtao , Neelin J. David , Yung Yuk L.
Published: March 2019

Simulations of tropical atmospheric circulation response to surface warming vary substantially across models, causing large uncertainties in projections of regional precipitation change. Understanding the physical processes that drive the model spread in tropical circulation changes is critically needed. Here we employ the basic mass balance and energetic constraints on tropical circulation to identify the dominant factors that determine multidecadal circulation strength and area changes in climate models. We show that the models produce a robust weakening of descent rate under warming regardless of surface warming patterns; however, ascent rate change exhibits inter-model spread twice as large as descent rate because of diverse model responses in the radiative effects of clouds, water vapor, and aerosols. As ascent area change is dictated by the disparate descent and ascent rate changes due to the mass budget and the inter-model spread in descent rate change is small, the model spread in ascent area change is dominated by that of ascent rate change, resulting in a strong anti-correlation of –0.85 between the fractional changes of ascent strength and area across 77 climate model simulations. This anti-correlation leads to a corresponding inverse relationship between the rates of precipitation intensifying and narrowing of the inter-tropical convergence zone (ITCZ), suggesting tropical ascent area change can be potentially used to constrain the ITCZ precipitation change. Longwave cloud radiative effect at the top-of-atmosphere (TOA) in the convective region is identified to be a major source of uncertainties for tropical ascent rate change and thus for regional precipitation change.
Accumulation of genetic and epigenetic alterations in normal cells and cancer risk
Authors: Takeshima Hideyuki , Ushijima Toshikazu
Published: March 2019

Cancers develop due to the accumulation of genetic and epigenetic alterations. Genetic alterations are induced by aging, mutagenic chemicals, ultraviolet light, and other factors; whereas, epigenetic alterations are mainly by aging and chronic inflammation. The accumulation and patterns of alterations in normal cells reflect our past exposure levels and life history. Most accumulated alterations are considered as passengers, but their accumulation is correlated with cancer drivers. This has been shown for aberrant DNA methylation but has only been speculated for genetic alterations. However, recent technological advancements have enabled measurement of rare point mutations, and studies have shown that their accumulation levels are indeed correlated with cancer risk. When the accumulation levels of aberrant DNA methylation and point mutations are combined, risk prediction becomes even more accurate. When high levels of alterations accumulate, the tissue has a high risk of developing cancer or even multiple cancers and is considered as a “cancerization field”, with or without expansion of physiological patches of clonal cells. In this review, we describe the formation of a cancerization field and how we can apply its detection in precision cancer risk diagnosis.
Ultrasensitive detection of trinitrotoluene by Fe3O4@mTiO2/P-ATP-TNT/Au@Ag SERS sensor via synergetic effect
Authors: Sun Mei , Chen Ping , Zhao Aiwu , Zuo Fangtao
Published: March 2019

A novel SERS sensor based on Fe3O4@mTiO2/P-ATP-TNT/Au@Ag magnetic nanoparticles (NPs) is reported for the first time to detect trace trinitrotoluene (TNT) explosive.
Magnetic thermosensitive micelles with upper critical solution temperature for NIR triggered drug release
Authors: Wu Lin , Zong Ling , Ni Haihua , Liu Xuexue , Wen Wen , Feng Lei , Cao Jin , Qi Xueyong , Ge Yanru , Shen Song
Published: March 2019

Smart micelles which undergo dramatic property changes in response to temperature have aroused extensive interest in specific cancer therapy.
Adsorption of anthracene substitutes into suprachannels: bulk vs. included guests
Authors: Lee Daseul , Kim Dongwon , Lee Haeri , Noh Tae Hwan , Lee Young-A , Jung Ok-Sang
Published: March 2019

Investigation of FRET of included anthracene substitutes within unusual hydrophobic suprachannels was carried out.
Tailoring the photoluminescence of atomically precise nanoclusters
Authors: Kang Xi , Zhu Manzhou
Published: March 2019

Fluorescent nanoclusters are an emerging class of modular nanomaterials. This review highlights recent developments in tailoring the photo-luminescence of nanoclusters.
Wrinkled two-dimensional ultrathin Cu(ii)-porphyrin framework nanosheets hybridized with polypyrrole for flexible all-solid-state supercapacitors
Authors: Zhao Weiwei , Wang Weikang , Peng Jiali , Chen Tiantian , Jin Beibei , Liu Shujuan , Huang Wei , Zhao Qiang
Published: March 2019

A flexible Cu-TCPP/PPy electrode was fabricated through a direct oxidation polymerization of PPy on a wrinkled 2D Cu-TCPP film.
The effect of structure and texture on the breakdown pattern during mastication and impacts on in vitro starch digestibility of high fibre rye extrudates
Authors: Alam Syed Ariful , Pentikäinen Saara , Närväinen Johanna , Katina Kati , Poutanen Kaisa , Sozer Nesli
Published: March 2019

Structural attributes of the extrudates rather than core composition dictates breakdown pattern during mastication and in vitro starch digestibility.
Engineering of a skin-fiber-opening enzyme for sulfide-free leather beam house operation through xenobiology
Authors: Pandurangan Suryalakshmi , Meganathan Ilamaran , Ragavan Sriram , Ramudu Kamini Numbi , Shanmugam Easwaramoorthi , Shanmugam Ganesh , Niraikulam Ayyadurai
Published: March 2019

We evolved a next-generation novel congener biocatalyst by combining computational and xenobiological approaches for leather processing.
Utilization of bio-based glycolaldehyde aqueous solution in organic synthesis: application to the synthesis of 2,3-dihydrofurans
Authors: Xu Jing , Huang Wenbo , Bai Rongxian , Queneau Yves , Jérôme François , Gu Yanlong
Published: March 2019

Bio-based glycolaldehyde aqueous solution was used as a C2 building block for the synthesis of a class of dihydrofuran derivatives with the aid of a deep eutectic solvent composed of FeCl3·6H2O and meglumine.
Handedness-controlled and solvent-driven actuators with twisted fibers
Authors: Fang Bo , Xiao Youhua , Xu Zhen , Chang Dan , Wang Bo , Gao Weiwei , Gao Chao
Published: March 2019

Handedness-controlled actuating systems are constructed from continuous twisted fibers with mirrored handedness, superb flexibility and mechanical robustness, affording impressive start-up torques driven by polar solvents, and controllably outputting rotor kinetic energy, harvesting electrical energy, and delivering mechanical energy with a high energy conversion coefficient.
A green luminescent MoS2–CdTe hybrid nanostructure synthesized through surface charge interaction
Authors: Haldar Dhrubaa , Bose Saptasree , Ghosh Arnab , Saha Shyamal K.
Published: March 2019

During the last few years, intensive research has been carried out on the synthesis of different hybrid nanostructures mostly using hydrothermal and solvothermal techniques.
Supramolecular phenoxy-alkyl maleate-based hydrogels and their enzyme/pH-responsive curcumin release
Authors: Kumar Bijari Anil , Nayak Rati Ranjan
Published: March 2019

Low molecular-weight hydrogelators as stimuli-responsive drug carrier agents in the pharmaceutical field.
Solvent exfoliation stabilizes TiS2 nanosheets against oxidation, facilitating lithium storage applications
Authors: Vega-Mayoral Victor , Tian Ruiyuan , Kelly Adam G. , Griffin Aideen , Harvey Andrew , Borrelli Mino , Nisi Katharina , Backes Claudia , Coleman Jonathan N.
Published: March 2019

Titanium disulfide is a promising material for a range of applications, including lithium-ion battery (LIB) anodes.
An electrically driven structural phase transition in single Ag2Te nanowire devices
Authors: Premasiri Kasun , Zheng Wei , Xu Biao , Ma Tao , Zhou Lin , Wu Yue , Gao Xuan P. A.
Published: March 2019

Exploring new phase-change materials is instrumental in the progression of electronic memory devices.
Chiral CdSe nanoplatelets as an ultrasensitive probe for lead ion sensing
Authors: Wang Xiongbin , Hao Junjie , Cheng Jiaji , Li Junzi , Miao Jun , Li Ruxue , Li Yiwen , Li Jiagen , Liu Yuhui , Zhu Xi , Liu Yanjun , Sun Xiao Wei , Tang Zikang , Delville Marie-Hélène , He Tingchao , Chen Rui
Published: March 2019

Achiral CdSe NPLs could show chirality through ligand exchange with chiral cysteine molecules. Chiral CdSe NPLs were successfully applied as a chiral probe to detect lead ions with high sensitivity and selectivity.
Synthesis of a novel graphene-based gold nanocomposite using PVEIM-b-PNIPAM as a stabilizer and its thermosensitivity for the catalytic reduction of 4-nitrophenol
Authors: Chen Shu , Xiang Yuanfang , Peng Chang , Xu Weijian , Banks M. Katherine , Wu Ruoxi
Published: March 2019

Fabrication of a graphene-based gold nanocomposite using PVEIM-b-PNIPAM as a stabilizer and its thermosensitivity for the reduction of 4-nitrophenol.
Asymmetric hydrogenation of α,β-unsaturated sulfones by a rhodium/thiourea–bisphosphine complex
Authors: Sun Yongjie , Jiang Jun , Guo Xiaochong , Wen Jialin , Zhang Xumu
Published: March 2019

We herein report a method to synthesize chiral sulfone compounds.
Ir-Catalyzed ring-opening of oxa(aza)benzonorbornadienes with water or alcohols
Authors: Yang Xin , Yang Wen , Yao Yongqi , Deng Yingying , Yang Dingqiao
Published: March 2019

A highly efficient Ir-catalyzed ring-opening reaction of oxa(aza)benzonorbornadienes with water was firstly developed, which afforded a mild access to substituted dihydronaphthalene products with excellent yields (up to 99%) within 30 min.
High-temperature stability of nanozirconate-toughed IMF material lanthanum synthesized by anin situreaction
Authors: Wang Xin , Xue Min , Liu Songbai , Jiang Kuo , Zhang Zhuli
Published: March 2019

Herein, powders composed of La2Zr2O7(LZ) and ZrO2phases were synthesized by anin situreaction using a sol-spray pyrolysis method; moreover, 24 mol% LaO1.5–ZrO2powders were characterized by XRD, Raman, SEM, and TEM.
Synthesis of N-doped ZnO nanoparticles with cabbage morphology as a catalyst for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue under UV and visible light
Authors: Prabakaran Eswaran , Pillay Kriveshini
Published: March 2019

In this study, the synthesis of nitrogen-doped zinc oxide nanoparticles with a cabbage like morphology (N-ZnONCBs) by a hydrothermal method using zinc acetate dihydrate as a precursor and hydrazine monohydrate as a nitrogen source is reported.
Influence of morphology of monolithic sulfur–poly(acrylonitrile) composites used as cathode materials in lithium–sulfur batteries on electrochemical performance
Authors: Lebherz Tim , Frey Martin , Hintennach Andreas , Buchmeiser Michael R.
Published: March 2019

Influence of SPAN-based cathode materials with a defined morphology on the electrochemical behavior of Li–S-cells.
Simultaneous electrochemical solar power generation and storage using metanil yellow-formic acid as a new sensitizer-reductant couple in photogalvanic cells
Authors: Koli Pooran , Dayma Yashodhara , Pareek Ramesh Kumar
Published: March 2019

Variation of the pH. (1) Current vs. pH (lower curve); (2) power vs. pH (upper curve).
Multisulfonate hyperbranched polyglycerol functionalized graphene oxide as an efficient reusable catalyst for green synthesis of benzo[a]pyrano-[2,3-c]phenazines under solvent-free conditions
Authors: Naeimi Hossein , Zarabi Maryam Farahnak
Published: March 2019

A novel acid catalyst was prepared based on growing hyperbranched polyglycerol (HPG) on the surface of graphene oxide. Then, the hydroxyl groups of HPG on graphene oxide were functionalized by sulfonate groups to form an acid catalyst.
A cement paste–tail sealant interface modified with a silane coupling agent for enhancing waterproofing performance in a concrete lining system
Authors: Li Fan , Yang Yuyou , Tao Mingjiang , Li Xiangqian
Published: March 2019

Although hydrophobic surface coating of concrete is currently used to enhance waterproofing performance of underground structures, the chemical and mechanical incompatibility between them is a challenge to ensure long-term waterproofing properties.
A cascade of a denitrification bioreactor and an aerobic biofilm reactor for heavy oil refinery wastewater treatment
Authors: Dong Honghong , Jiang Xiaoyan , Sun Shanshan , Fang Li , Wang Wei , Cui Kai , Yao Tiantian , Wang Heming , Zhang Zhiyong , Zhang Ying , Zhang Zhongzhi , Fu Pengcheng
Published: March 2019

The performance of an efficient denitrification bioreactor–aerobic biofilm reactor cascade for heavy oil refinery wastewater treatment was investigated.
A review of gasification of bio-oil for gas production
Authors: Zheng Ji-Lu , Zhu Ya-Hong , Zhu Ming-Qiang , Kang Kang , Sun Run-Cang
Published: March 2019

The commercial production of advanced fuels based on bio-oil gasification could be promising because the cost-effective transport of bio-oil could promote large-scale implementation of this biomass technology.
Photocatalytic reforming of sugar and glucose into H2over functionalized graphene dots
Authors: Nguyen Van-Can , Ke Nei-Jin , Nam Le Duy , Nguyen Ba-Son , Xiao Yuan-Kai , Lee Yuh-Lang , Teng Hsisheng
Published: March 2019

Functionalized graphene dots attract glucose for effective photocatalytic reforming of glucose into H2under visible light irradiation.
Assessing structure and stability of polymer/lithium-metal interfaces from first-principles calculations
Authors: Ebadi Mahsa , Marchiori Cleber , Mindemark Jonas , Brandell Daniel , Araujo C. Moyses
Published: March 2019

Solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) are promising candidates for Li metal battery applications, but the interface between these two categories of materials has so far been studied only to a limited degree.
Few-layered 1T-MoS2-modified ZnCoS solid-solution hollow dodecahedra for enhanced photocatalytic hydrogen evolution
Authors: Mao Qing , Chen Jianmin , Chen Huirong , Chen Zhijie , Chen Junying , Li Yingwei
Published: March 2019

Novel few-layered 1T-MoS2-modified ZnCoS solid-solution hollow dodecahedra were fabricated for enhanced photocatalytic hydrogen evolution.
Rational synthesis and electrochemical performance of LiVOPO4 polymorphs
Authors: Hidalgo Marc Francis V. , Lin Yuh-Chieh , Grenier Antonin , Xiao Dongdong , Rana Jatinkumar , Tran Richard , Xin Huolin , Zuba Mateusz , Donohue Jennifer , Omenya Fredrick O. , Chu Iek-Heng , Wang Zhenbin , Li XiangGuo , Chernova Natasha A. , Chapman Karena W. , Zhou Guangwen , Piper Louis , Ong Shyue Ping , Whittingham M. Stanley
Published: March 2019

A thorough study on the stability of LiVOPO4 polymorphs to determine which is the most promising for Li-ion batteries.
Bio-related applications of porous organic frameworks (POFs)
Authors: Zhang He , Li Guoliang , Liao Chunyang , Cai Yaqi , Jiang Guibin
Published: March 2019

Porous organic frameworks (POFs) are promising candidates for bio-related applications. This review highlights the recent progress in POF-based bioapplications, including drug delivery, bioimaging, biosensing, therapeutics, and artificial shells. These encouraging performances suggest that POFs used for bioapplications deserve more attention in the future.
Copper-nanoparticle-embedded hydrogel for killing bacteria and promoting wound healing with photothermal therapy
Authors: Tao Bailong , Lin Chuanchuan , Deng Yiman , Yuan Zhang , Shen Xinkun , Chen Maowen , He Ye , Peng Zhihong , Hu Yan , Cai Kaiyong
Published: March 2019

Cu-NP-embedded hydrogel (BACA/Cu NPs/Gel-MA hydrogel) produces ROS for photothermal therapy, killing bacteria, and promoting wound healing.
Almost complete radiationless energy transfer from excited triplet state of a dim phosphor to a covalently linked adjacent fluorescent dye in purely organic tandem luminophores doped into PVA matrix
Authors: Jõgela Joana , Uri Asko , Pålsson Lars-Olof , Enkvist Erki
Published: March 2019

Efficient harvesting of energy of the triplet exited state of dim organic phosphors by conjugated fluorophores is a general phenomenon that would be applicable for construction of novel photoluminescence-based sensors and organic light emitting devices.
Impact of structural anisotropy on electro-mechanical response in crystalline organic semiconductors
Authors: Gali Sai Manoj , Quarti Claudio , Olivier Yoann , Cornil Jérôme , Truflandier Lionel , Castet Frédéric , Muccioli Luca , Beljonne David
Published: March 2019

To gain a fundamental understanding of the electromechanical response in crystalline organic semiconductors, the uniaxial strain–mobility relationships in rubrene polymorphs and benzothienobenzothiophene crystals is investigated. The strain–mobility response in these materials evolves to be bi-directional, that depends on the inherent crystalline anisotropy.
Hydrothermal synthesis of N-doped carbon dots from an ethanolamine–ionic liquid gel to construct label-free multifunctional fluorescent probes for Hg2+, Cu2+ and S2O32−
Authors: Wang Baogang , Tan Hui , Zhang Tailiang , Duan Wenmeng , Zhu Yuanqiang
Published: March 2019

N-Doped carbon dots were synthesized and used to construct multifunctional fluorescent probes for Hg2+, Cu2+ and S2O32−.
Application of a novel electromembrane extraction and microextraction method followed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry to determine biogenic amines in canned fish
Authors: Kamankesh Marzieh , Mohammadi Abdorreza , Mollahosseini Afsaneh , Seidi Shahram
Published: March 2019

Electromembrane extraction (EME) and μ-dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction (μ-DLLME) have been applied in the simultaneous determination of biogenic amines (tyramine, histamine, putrescine and cadaverine) in canned fish samples.
A gene-targeted polymerase-mediated strategy to identifyO6-methylguanine damage
Authors: Aloisi Claudia M. N. , Sturla Shana J. , Gahlon Hailey L.
Published: March 2019

Detecting DNA adducts in cancer genes is important for understanding cancer etiology.
A thermoresponsive nanocarrier for mitochondria-targeted drug delivery
Authors: Wang Dongqing , Huang Hui , Zhou Mengxue , Lu Huiru , Chen Jun , Chang Young-Tae , Gao Jimin , Chai Zhifang , Hu Yi
Published: March 2019

A thermoresponsive nanocarrier was developed for mitochondria-targeted drug delivery.
Ozone modification as an efficient strategy for promoting the photocatalytic effect of TiO2for air purification
Authors: Zhang Fan , Hong Bin , Zhao Weisheng , Yang Yue , Bao Jun , Gao Chen , Sun Song
Published: March 2019

A “two-bird-with-one-stone” strategy by ozone modification on TiO2provides an approach to address the gaseous pollution with ozone and VOCs.
Off–off–on chiroptical property switching of a pyrene luminophore by stepwise helicate formation
Authors: Imai Yuki , Yuasa Junpei
Published: March 2019

The stepwise formation of pyrene-bridged helicates [(L(R or S))3(Zn2+)2] with a large dissymmetry factor (|gCD| = 0.006 and |gCPL| = 0.01) results in off/off/on-type chiroptical property switching of the pyrene luminophore controlled by the concentration of zinc ions (Zn2+).
Synthesis of indoles and quinazolines via additive-controlled selective C–H activation/annulation of N-arylamidines and sulfoxonium ylides
Authors: Lai Ruizhi , Wu Xiaohua , Lv Songyang , Zhang Chen , He Maoyao , Chen Yuncan , Wang Qiantao , Hai Li , Wu Yong
Published: March 2019

Selective synthesis of indoles and quinazolines was achieved through a precise control of C–H activation/annulation by changing additives.
Nanoplatelet cryoaerogels with potential application in photoelectrochemical sensing
Authors: Schlosser Anja , Meyer Lea C. , Lübkemann Franziska , Miethe Jan F. , Bigall Nadja C.
Published: March 2019

Photoelectrodes based on CdSe nanoplatelet cryoaerogels are prepared and the charge carrier transport within these structures is investigated photoelectrochemically.
Ionic structure and transport properties of KF–NaF–AlF3 fused salt: a molecular dynamics study
Authors: Lv Xiaojun , Han Zexun , Zhang Hengxing , Liu Qingsheng , Chen Jiangan , Jiang Liangxing
Published: March 2019

Studying the ionic structure and transport properties of the KF–NaF–AlF3 fused salt at the atomic level.
Previtamin D:Z–Ephotoisomerizationviaa Hula-twist conical intersection
Authors: Fuß Werner
Published: March 2019

Ring opening of 7-dehydrocholesterol in a cold matrix yields a single conformer of previtamin D, a steroidZ-triene. On its photoisomerization, the main product results from Hula twist (HT), and side products (e.g.from double-bond twist, DBT) come from the same conical intersection.
Insight into the delivery channel and selectivity of multiple binding sites in bovine serum albumin towards naphthalimide–polyamine derivatives
Authors: Fan Fangfang , Zhao Yuan , Cao Zexing
Published: March 2019

Distinct selectivity of the multiple drug sites in bovine serum albumin towards the naphthalimide–polyamine derivatives and transportation channels.
Flow effects on silicate dissolution and ion transport at an aqueous interface
Authors: Lian Cheng , Kong Xian , Liu Honglai , Wu Jianzhong
Published: March 2019

Combination of the classical density functional theory with kinetics modeling and the Navier–Stokes equation enables a quantitative description of the convoluted effects of fluid flow, surface reactions, interfacial structure and mass transport.
Depth-dependent electronic band structure at the Au/CH3NH3PbI3−xClx junction
Authors: Cha Myung Joo , Park Yu Jung , Seo Jung Hwa , Walker Bright
Published: March 2019

The electronic properties of the interface between Au and the lead halide perovskite (CH3NH3PbI3−xClx) were investigated by ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy (UPS) and X-ray photoemission spectroscopy (XPS).
Solar light decomposition of warfare agent simulant DMMP on TiO2/graphene oxide nanocomposites
Authors: Henych Jiří , Mattsson Andreas , Tolasz Jakub , Štengl Václav , Österlund Lars
Published: March 2019

Solar light-induced photodecomposition of organophosphorus warfare agent simulant dimethyl methylphosphonate (DMMP) on the surfaces of TiO2/graphene oxide (GO) nanocomposites was studied by in situ DRIFT spectroscopy.
Tin modified Nb2O5 as an efficient solid acid catalyst for the catalytic conversion of triose sugars to lactic acid
Authors: Wang Xincheng , Song Yongji , Huang Long , Wang Hong , Huang Chongpin , Li Cuiqing
Published: March 2019

Edge-sharing octahedral niobium oxides were used efficiently for the conversion of trioses to lactic acid under hydrothermal conditions.
A near-IR luminescent ratiometric ytterbium pH probe
Authors: Shuvaev Sergey , Parker David
Published: March 2019

The hypersensitive2F5/2to2F7/2transition of Yb3+can be used to monitor perturbations of the coordination sphere in ytterbium(iii) complexes.
Poly(alkyl glycidyl ether) hydrogels for harnessing the bioactivity of engineered microbes
Authors: Johnston Trevor G. , Fellin Christopher R. , Carignano Alberto , Nelson Alshakim
Published: March 2019

Herein, we describe a method to produce yeast-laden hydrogel inks for the direct-write 3D printing of cuboidal lattices for immobilized whole-cell catalysis.
Label-free separation of leukocyte subpopulations using high throughput multiplex acoustophoresis
Authors: Urbansky Anke , Olm Franziska , Scheding Stefan , Laurell Thomas , Lenshof Andreas
Published: March 2019

Implementing a new designed cooling system for rigorous temperature control and minimal acoustic energy losses allows high-throughput multiplex acoustophoresis.
C–P bond construction catalyzed by NiII immobilized on aminated Fe3O4@TiO2 yolk–shell NPs functionalized by (3-glycidyloxypropyl)trimethoxysilane (Fe3O4@TiO2 YS-GLYMO-UNNiII) in green media
Authors: Ghasemzadeh Maryam Sadat , Akhlaghinia Batool
Published: March 2019

An efficient, versatile and novel method for the C–P cross-coupling reaction with a high yield of products using Fe3O4@TiO2YS-GLYMO-UNNiII as a magnetic nanostructured catalyst in the presence of WERSA was reported.