bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Probing CO/Fe(100) surfaces from first‐principles: structures, energetics, and vibrations
Authors: Li Jibiao
Published: August 2016

By using spin‐polarized density function theory, we have established structural descriptors for CO vibrations on Fe(100) by structurally modeling the adsorbed CO with different occupation sites and orientations. The internal CO bond length and the external CFe bond length can be taken as the structural descriptors for the variation of the vibration frequencies. Generally, the first thumb of rule embraces the relationship between frequency softness and orientation tilting from the surface normal. The breakdown of the simple rule of variations in chemical coordination as a measure of changes in adsorption energy is demonstrated for the adsorbate; the adsorption energy of the upright CO molecule at the bridge site serves as an exception that is contradict to the previous assumption that the adsorption with higher metal coordination gave rise to larger adsorption energy. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of Benzenetricarboxylic Ligands on the Construction of Zn(II) Coordination Polymers Based on a Flexible Imidazole‐Based Ligand
Authors: Mu Yajuan , Ran Yungen , Wu Xueyi , Deng Yuetian , Liu Jiaxu
Published: August 2016

Two 3D Zn(II) networks based on 1,4‐bis(2‐methylimidazol‐1‐ylmethyl)‐2,3,5,6‐tetramethylbenzene (bmimx), namely, {[Zn4(μ4‐O)(μ2‐H2O)(1,3,5‐BTC)2(bmimx)]⋅H2O}n (1) and {[Zn2(μ2‐OH)(1,2,4‐BTC)(bmimx)(H2O)]⋅2.5H2O}n (2) (1,3,5‐H3BTC=1,3,5‐benzenetricarboxylic acid, 1,2,4‐H3BTC=1,2,4‐benzenetricarboxylic acid) have been prepared at hydrothermal condition by varying the benzenetricarboxylic ligands. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction indicates that complex 1 shows a (3,8)‐connected net based on tetranuclear zinc(II) clusters; complex 2 shows a 8‐connected framework based on 18‐membered tetranuclear zinc(II) macrometallacycles. The results indicate that benzenetricarboxylic ligands have an important effect on the stuctural characters and ultimate frameworks. Moreover, the photoluminescence properties of the two complexes were studied in the solid state at room temperature.
Small intestinal injury in NSAID users suffering from rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis
Authors: Tachecí Ilja , Bradna Petr , Douda Tomáš , Baštecká Drahomíra , Kopáčová Marcela , Rejchrt Stanislav , Lutonský Martin , Soukup Tomáš , Bureš Jan
Published: August 2016

The goal of this prospective study was to assess non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)-induced enteropathy in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or osteoarthritis (OA) by means of non-invasive wireless capsule enteroscopy. A total of 143 patients (74 with RA, 69 with OA) treated with NSAIDs (>1 month) and 42 healthy volunteers were included. All subjects underwent capsule endoscopy, laboratory tests and filled in questionnaires. The severity of small bowel injury was graded as: mild (red spots or sporadic erosions), moderate (10–20 erosions) or severe (>20 erosions or ulcers). Capsule endoscopy identified small bowel lesions in 44.8 % of patients (mild 36.4 %, moderate 3.5 % and severe in 4.9 %). Mild non-specific lesions were found in 11.9 % healthy volunteers. There was a significantly higher prevalence of enteropathy in RA (56.8 %) compared to OA (31.9 %, p < 0.01). A significant difference between NSAID users (RA and OA) with and without enteropathy was observed in erythrocytes (p < 0.01), the leucocyte count (p < 0.05), haemoglobin (p < 0.05), haematocrit (p < 0.05), serum albumin (p < 0.01) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (p < 0.05). No relationship was found between enteropathy and dyspepsia, gender or age. NSAID therapy is associated with a significant risk of small bowel injury. The risk is significantly higher in RA patients suggesting a possible influence of the underlying disease.

Trial registration number: DRKS00004940.
On the global nonlinear instability of the rotating-disk flow over a finite domain
Authors: Appelquist E. , Schlatter P. , Alfredsson P. H. , Lingwood R. J.
Published: August 2016

Direct numerical simulations based on the incompressible nonlinear Navier–Stokes equations of the flow over the surface of a rotating disk have been conducted. An impulsive disturbance was introduced and its development as it travelled radially outwards and ultimately transitioned to turbulence has been analysed. Of particular interest was whether the nonlinear stability is related to the linear stability properties. Specifically three disk-edge conditions were considered; (i) a sponge region forcing the flow back to laminar flow, (ii) a disk edge, where the disk was assumed to be infinitely thin and (iii) a physically realistic disk edge of finite thickness. This work expands on the linear simulations presented by Appelquist et al. (J. Fluid. Mech., vol. 765, 2015, pp. 612–631), where, for case (i), this configuration was shown to be globally linearly unstable when the sponge region effectively models the influence of the turbulence on the flow field. In contrast, case (ii) was mentioned there to be linearly globally stable, and here, where nonlinearity is included, it is shown that both cases (ii) and (iii) are nonlinearly globally unstable. The simulations show that the flow can be globally linearly stable if the linear wavepacket has a positive front velocity. However, in the same flow field, a nonlinear global instability can emerge, which is shown to depend on the outer turbulent region generating a linear inward-travelling mode that sustains a transition front within the domain. The results show that the front position does not approach the critical Reynolds number for the local absolute instability, $R=507$. Instead, the front approaches $R=583$ and both the temporal frequency and spatial growth rate correspond to a global mode originating at this position.
The SLUGGS Survey: A New Mask Design to Reconstruct the Stellar Populations and Kinematics of Both Inner and Outer Galaxy Regions
Authors: Pastorello Nicola , Forbes Duncan A. , Poci Adriano , Romanowsky Aaron J. , McDermid Richard , Alabi Adebusola B. , Brodie Jean P. , Cappellari Michele , Pota Vincenzo , Foster Caroline
Published: August 2016

Integral field unit spectrographs allow the 2D exploration of the kinematics and stellar populations of galaxies, although they are generally restricted to small fields-of-view. Using the large field-of-view of the DEIMOS multislit spectrograph on Keck and our Stellar Kinematics using Multiple Slits technique, we are able to extract sky-subtracted stellar light spectra to large galactocentric radii. Here, we present a new DEIMOS mask design named SuperSKiMS that explores large spatial scales without sacrificing high spatial sampling. We simulate a set of observations with such a mask design on the nearby galaxy NGC 1023, measuring stellar kinematics and metallicities out to where the galaxy surface brightness is orders of magnitude fainter than the sky. With this technique we also reproduce the results from literature integral field spectroscopy in the innermost galaxy regions. In particular, we use the simulated NGC 1023 kinematics to model its total mass distribution to large radii, obtaining comparable results with those from published integral field unit observation. Finally, from new spectra of NGC 1023, we obtain stellar 2D kinematics and metallicity distributions that show good agreement with integral field spectroscopy results in the overlapping regions. In particular, we do not find a significant offset between our Stellar Kinematics using Multiple Slits and the ATLAS3D stellar velocity dispersion at the same spatial locations.
The timing of the popping: using the log-periodic power law model to predict the bursting of bubbles on financial markets
Authors: Gustavsson Marcus , Levén Daniel , Sjögren Hans
Published: August 2016

The occurrence and unpredictability of speculative bubbles on financial markets, and their accompanying crashes, have confounded economists and economic historians worldwide. We examine the ability of the log-periodic power law model (LPPL-model) to accurately predict the end dates of speculative bubbles on financial markets through modeling of asset price dynamics on a selection of historical bubbles. The method is based on a nonlinear least squares estimation that yields predictions of when the bubble will change regime. Previous studies have only presented results where the predictions turn out to be successful. This study is the first to highlight both the potential and the limitations of the LPPL-model. We find evidence that supports the characteristic patterns as proposed by the LPPL-framework leading up to the change in regime; asset prices during bubble periods seem to oscillate around a faster-than-exponential growth. In most cases the estimation yields accurate predictions, although we conclude that the predictions are quite dependent on the point in time at which they are conducted. We also find that the end of a speculative bubble seems to be influenced by both endogenous speculative growth and exogenous factors. For this reason we propose a new way of interpreting the predictions of the model, where the end dates should be interpreted as the start of a time period where the asset prices are especially sensitive to exogenous events. We propose that negative news during this time period results in a regime shift and the bursting of the bubble. Thus, the model has the ability to predict sensitivity to exogenous events ex ante.
LOESS smoothed density estimates for multivariate survival data subject to censoring and masking
Authors: Adamic Peter , Guse Jenna
Published: August 2016

Actuaries often encounter censored and masked survival data when constructing multiple-decrement tables. In this paper, we propose estimators for the cause-specific failure time density using LOESS smoothing techniques that are employed in the presence of left-censored data, while still allowing for right-censored and exact observations, as well as masked causes of failure. The smoothing mechanism is incorporated as part of an expectation-maximisation algorithm. The proposed models are applied to a bivariate African sleeping sickness data set.
Clonal haematopoiesis harbouring AML-associated mutations is ubiquitous in healthy adults
Authors: Young Andrew L. , Challen Grant A. , Birmann Brenda M. , Druley Todd E.
Published: August 2016

Clonal haematopoiesis is thought to be a rare condition that increases in frequency with age and predisposes individuals to haematological malignancy. Recent studies, utilizing next-generation sequencing (NGS), observed haematopoietic clones in 10% of 70-year olds and rarely in younger individuals. However, these studies could only detect common haematopoietic clones—>0.02 variant allele fraction (VAF)—due to the error rate of NGS. To identify and characterize clonal mutations below this threshold, here we develop methods for targeted error-corrected sequencing, which enable the accurate detection of clonal mutations as rare as 0.0003 VAF. We apply these methods to study serially banked peripheral blood samples from healthy 50–60-year-old participants in the Nurses’ Health Study. We observe clonal haematopoiesis, frequently harbouring mutations in DNMT3A and TET2, in 95% of individuals studied. These clonal mutations are often stable longitudinally and present in multiple haematopoietic compartments, suggesting a long-lived haematopoietic stem and progenitor cell of origin.
Magnetic torque anomaly in the quantum limit of Weyl semimetals
Authors: Moll Philip J. W. , Potter Andrew C. , Nair Nityan L. , Ramshaw B. J. , Modic K. A. , Riggs Scott , Zeng Bin , Ghimire Nirmal J. , Bauer Eric D. , Kealhofer Robert , Ronning Filip , Analytis James G.
Published: August 2016

Electrons in materials with linear dispersion behave as massless Weyl- or Dirac-quasiparticles, and continue to intrigue due to their close resemblance to elusive ultra-relativistic particles as well as their potential for future electronics. Yet the experimental signatures of Weyl-fermions are often subtle and indirect, in particular if they coexist with conventional, massive quasiparticles. Here we show a pronounced anomaly in the magnetic torque of the Weyl semimetal NbAs upon entering the quantum limit state in high magnetic fields. The torque changes sign in the quantum limit, signalling a reversal of the magnetic anisotropy that can be directly attributed to the topological nature of the Weyl electrons. Our results establish that anomalous quantum limit torque measurements provide a direct experimental method to identify and distinguish Weyl and Dirac systems.
Manipulating the sequence of food ingestion improves glycemic control in type 2 diabetic patients under free-living conditions
Authors: Tricò D , Filice E , Trifirò S , Natali A
Published: August 2016

Lipid and protein ingested before carbohydrate reduce postprandial hyperglycemia. We tested feasibility, safety and clinical efficacy of manipulating the sequence of nutrient ingestion in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). After a 4-week run-in, 17 T2D patients were randomized to either a control diet (CD) or to an experimental diet (ED) allowing the consumption of high-carbohydrate foods only after high-protein and high-fat foods at each main meal (lunch+dinner). Both diets were accurately followed and neutral on arterial blood pressure, plasma lipids and indices of hepatic and kidney function. After 8 weeks, in spite of a similar reduction of body weight (ED −1.9 95% confidence interval (−3.4/−0.4)kg, P<0.03; CD −2.0 (−3.6/−0.5)kg, P<0.02) and waist circumference (ED −2.9 (−4.3/−1.5)cm, P<0.002; CD −3.3 (−5.9/−0.7)cm, P<0.02), the ED only was associated with significant reductions of HbA1c (−0.3 (−0.50/−0.02)%, P<0.04), fasting plasma glucose (−1.0 (−1.8/−0.3)mmol l−1, P<0.01), postprandial glucose excursions (lunch −1.8 (−3.2/−0.4)mmol l−1, P<0.01; dinner: −1.0 (−1.9/−0.1)mmol l−1, P<0.04) and other indices of glucose variability (s.d.: −0.5 (−0.7/−0.2)mmol l−1, P<0.02; Coefficient of variation: −6.6 (−10.4/−2.7)%, P<0.02). When compared with the CD, the ED was associated with lower post-lunch glucose excursions (P<0.02) and lower glucose coefficients of variation (P<0.05). Manipulating the sequence of nutrient ingestion might reveal a rapid, feasible, economic and safe strategy for optimizing glucose control in T2D.
Characterization of new RNA polymerase III and RNA polymerase II transcriptional promoters in the Bovine Leukemia Virus genome
Authors: Van Driessche Benoit , Rodari Anthony , Delacourt Nadège , Fauquenoy Sylvain , Vanhulle Caroline , Burny Arsène , Rohr Olivier , Van Lint Carine
Published: August 2016

Bovine leukemia virus latency is a viral strategy used to escape from the host immune system and contribute to tumor development. However, a highly expressed BLV micro-RNA cluster has been reported, suggesting that the BLV silencing is not complete. Here, we demonstrate the in vivo recruitment of RNA polymerase III to the BLV miRNA cluster both in BLV-latently infected cell lines and in ovine BLV-infected primary cells, through a canonical type 2 RNAPIII promoter. Moreover, by RPC6-knockdown, we showed a direct functional link between RNAPIII transcription and BLV miRNAs expression. Furthermore, both the tumor- and the quiescent-related isoforms of RPC7 subunits were recruited to the miRNA cluster. We showed that the BLV miRNA cluster was enriched in positive epigenetic marks. Interestingly, we demonstrated the in vivo recruitment of RNAPII at the 3′LTR/host genomic junction, associated with positive epigenetic marks. Functionally, we showed that the BLV LTR exhibited a strong antisense promoter activity and identified cis-acting elements of an RNAPII-dependent promoter. Finally, we provided evidence for an in vivo collision between RNAPIII and RNAPII convergent transcriptions. Our results provide new insights into alternative ways used by BLV to counteract silencing of the viral 5′LTR promoter.
Hornblendite delineates zones of mass transfer through the lower crust
Authors: Daczko Nathan R. , Piazolo Sandra , Meek Uvana , Stuart Catherine A. , Elliott Victoria
Published: August 2016

Geochemical signatures throughout the layered Earth require significant mass transfer through the lower crust, yet geological pathways are under-recognized. Elongate bodies of basic to ultrabasic rocks are ubiquitous in exposures of the lower crust. Ultrabasic hornblendite bodies hosted within granulite facies gabbroic gneiss of the Pembroke Valley, Fiordland, New Zealand, are typical occurrences usually reported as igneous cumulate hornblendite. Their igneous features contrast with the metamorphic character of their host gabbroic gneiss. Both rock types have a common parent; field relationships are consistent with modification of host gabbroic gneiss into hornblendite. This precludes any interpretation involving cumulate processes in forming the hornblendite; these bodies are imposter cumulates. Instead, replacement of the host gabbroic gneiss formed hornblendite as a result of channeled high melt flux through the lower crust. High melt/rock ratios and disequilibrium between the migrating magma (granodiorite) and its host gabbroic gneiss induced dissolution (grain-scale magmatic assimilation) of gneiss and crystallization of mainly hornblende from the migrating magma. The extent of this reaction-replacement mechanism indicates that such hornblendite bodies delineate significant melt conduits. Accordingly, many of the ubiquitous basic to ultrabasic elongate bodies of the lower crust likely map the ‘missing’ mass transfer zones.
Inversion channel diamond metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor with normally off characteristics
Authors: Matsumoto Tsubasa , Kato Hiromitsu , Oyama Kazuhiro , Makino Toshiharu , Ogura Masahiko , Takeuchi Daisuke , Inokuma Takao , Tokuda Norio , Yamasaki Satoshi
Published: August 2016

We fabricated inversion channel diamond metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs) with normally off characteristics. At present, Si MOSFETs and insulated gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs) with inversion channels are widely used because of their high controllability of electric power and high tolerance. Although a diamond semiconductor is considered to be a material with a strong potential for application in next-generation power devices, diamond MOSFETs with an inversion channel have not yet been reported. We precisely controlled the MOS interface for diamond by wet annealing and fabricated p-channel and planar-type MOSFETs with phosphorus-doped n-type body on diamond (111) substrate. The gate oxide of Al2O3 was deposited onto the n-type diamond body by atomic layer deposition at 300 °C. The drain current was controlled by the negative gate voltage, indicating that an inversion channel with a p-type character was formed at a high-quality n-type diamond body/Al2O3 interface. The maximum drain current density and the field-effect mobility of a diamond MOSFET with a gate electrode length of 5 μm were 1.6 mA/mm and 8.0 cm2/Vs, respectively, at room temperature.
Effect of Quercetin on Hepatitis C Virus Life Cycle: From Viral to Host Targets
Authors: Rojas Ángela , Del Campo Jose A. , Clement Sophie , Lemasson Matthieu , García-Valdecasas Marta , Gil-Gómez Antonio , Ranchal Isidora , Bartosch Birke , Bautista Juan D. , Rosenberg Arielle R. , Negro Francesco , Romero-Gómez Manuel
Published: August 2016

Quercetin is a natural flavonoid, which has been shown to have anti hepatitis C virus (HCV) properties. However, the exact mechanisms whereby quercetin impacts the HCV life cycle are not fully understood. We assessed the effect of quercetin on different steps of the HCV life cycle in Huh-7.5 cells and primary human hepatocytes (PHH) infected with HCVcc. In both cell types, quercetin significantly decreased i) the viral genome replication; ii) the production of infectious HCV particles and iii) the specific infectivity of the newly produced viral particles (by 85% and 92%, Huh7.5 and PHH respectively). In addition, when applied directly on HCV particles, quercetin reduced their infectivity by 65%, suggesting that it affects the virion integrity. Interestingly, the HCV-induced up-regulation of diacylglycerol acyltransferase (DGAT) and the typical localization of the HCV core protein to the surface of lipid droplets, known to be mediated by DGAT, were both prevented by quercetin. In conclusion, quercetin appears to have direct and host-mediated antiviral effects against HCV.
Developmental transcriptome analysis and identification of genes involved in formation of intestinal air-breathing function of Dojo loach, Misgurnus anguillicaudatus
Authors: Luo Weiwei , Cao Xiaojuan , Xu Xiuwen , Huang Songqian , Liu Chuanshu , Tomljanovic Tea
Published: August 2016

Dojo loach, Misgurnus anguillicaudatus is a freshwater fish species of the loach family Cobitidae, using its posterior intestine as an accessory air-breathing organ. Little is known about the molecular regulatory mechanisms in the formation of intestinal air-breathing function of M. anguillicaudatus. Here high-throughput sequencing of mRNAs was performed from six developmental stages of posterior intestine of M. anguillicaudatus: 4-Dph (days post hatch) group, 8-Dph group, 12-Dph group, 20-Dph group, 40-Dph group and Oyd (one-year-old) group. These six libraries were assembled into 81300 unigenes. Totally 40757 unigenes were annotated. Subsequently, 35291 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were scanned among different developmental stages and clustered into 20 gene expression profiles. Finally, 15 key pathways and 25 key genes were mined, providing potential targets for candidate gene selection involved in formation of intestinal air-breathing function in M. anguillicaudatus. This is the first report of developmental transcriptome of posterior intestine in M. anguillicaudatus, offering a substantial contribution to the sequence resources for this species and providing a deep insight into the formation mechanism of its intestinal air-breathing function. This report demonstrates that M. anguillicaudatus is a good model for studies to identify and characterize the molecular basis of accessory air-breathing organ development in fish.
Purification of High Salinity Brine by Multi-Stage Ion Concentration Polarization Desalination
Authors: Kim Bumjoo , Kwak Rhokyun , Kwon Hyukjin J. , Pham Van Sang , Kim Minseok , Al-Anzi Bader , Lim Geunbae , Han Jongyoon
Published: August 2016

There is an increasing need for the desalination of high concentration brine (>TDS 35,000 ppm) efficiently and economically, either for the treatment of produced water from shale gas/oil development, or minimizing the environmental impact of brine from existing desalination plants. Yet, reverse osmosis (RO), which is the most widely used for desalination currently, is not practical for brine desalination. This paper demonstrates technical and economic feasibility of ICP (Ion Concentration Polarization) electrical desalination for the high saline water treatment, by adopting multi-stage operation with better energy efficiency. Optimized multi-staging configurations, dependent on the brine salinity values, can be designed based on experimental and numerical analysis. Such an optimization aims at achieving not just the energy efficiency but also (membrane) area efficiency, lowering the true cost of brine treatment. ICP electrical desalination is shown here to treat brine salinity up to 100,000 ppm of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) with flexible salt rejection rate up to 70% which is promising in a various application treating brine waste. We also demonstrate that ICP desalination has advantage of removing both salts and diverse suspended solids simultaneously, and less susceptibility to membrane fouling/scaling, which is a significant challenge in the membrane processes.
Lanthanum regulates the reactive oxygen species in the roots of rice seedlings
Authors: Liu Dongwu , Zheng Shengnan , Wang Xue
Published: August 2016

In this study, the effects of La3+ on the reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant metabolism were studied in the roots of rice (Oryza sativa L. cv Shengdao 16) exposed to increasing concentrations of La3+ (0.05, 0.1, 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 mM). The level of hydrogen peroxide, superoxide anion and malondialdehyde was increased by 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 mM La3+ and the activity of catalase and peroxidase was increased by 0.05 and 0.1 mM La3+. However, La3+ treatments stimulated superoxide dismutase activity in the roots of rice seedlings at all tested concentrations. In addition, the probe 2′,7′-dichlorofluorescein diacetate (H2DCF-DA) was used to investigate the instantaneous change of ROS in the root cells with the laser-scanning confocal microscopy. The result indicated that ROS level was declined after treated with 0.05 mM La3+. The results showed that the appropriate concentration of La3+ decreased the level of ROS and hormetic effects on the antioxidant metabolism were found in the roots of rice exposed to 0.05, 0.1, 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 mM La3+.
Analysis and modeling of Fano resonances using equivalent circuit elements
Authors: Lv Bo , Li Rujiang , Fu Jiahui , Wu Qun , Zhang Kuang , Chen Wan , Wang Zhefei , Ma Ruyu
Published: August 2016

Fano resonance presents an asymmetric line shape formed by an interference of a continuum coupled with a discrete autoionized state. In this paper, we show several simple circuits for Fano resonances from the stable-input impedance mechanism, where the elements consisting of inductors and capacitors are formulated for various resonant modes and the resistor represents the damping of the oscillators. By tuning the pole-zero of the input impedance, a simple circuit with only three passive components e.g. two inductors and one capacitor, can exhibit asymmetric resonance with arbitrary Q-factors flexiblely. Meanwhile, four passive components can exhibit various resonances including the Lorentz-like and reversely electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) formations. Our work not only provides an intuitive understanding of Fano resonances, but also pave the way to realize Fano resonaces using simple circuit elements.
BDE47 induces rat CYP3A1 by targeting the transcriptional regulation of miR-23b
Authors: Sun Zhenzhen , Zhang Zhan , Ji Minghui , Yang Hongbao , Cromie Meghan , Gu Jun , Wang Chao , Yang Lu , Yu Yongquan , Gao Weimin , Wang Shou-Lin
Published: August 2016

Cytochrome P450 3A (CYP3A) is the most abundant CYP450 enzyme in the liver and is involved in the metabolism of over 50% of xenobiotics. Our previous studies revealed that 2,2′,4,4′-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE47) could induce rat CYP3A1 expression, but the molecular basis remains unclear. Using in silico analysis, we identified a potential miR-23b recognition element (MRE23b) in the 3′-UTR region of CYP3A1 mRNA, which was verified by the luciferase assay. The miR-23b mimic and inhibitor significantly down- and up-regulated the expression of CYP3A1, respectively. Additionally, BDE47 significantly down-regulated the expression of miR-23b in rats and in hepatic H4IIE cells. Induction or blockage of CYP3A1 by a miR-23b inhibitor or mimic could correspondingly alter BDE47-induced expression of CYP3A1 and cytotoxicity in H4IIE cells. Furthermore, LV-anti-miR-23b significantly decreased endogenous levels of miR-23b and increased the expression and activity of CYP3A1 in rat liver. LV-anti-miR-23b also significantly increased the hydroxylated metabolites of BDE47 (3-OH-BDE47, 4-OH-BDE42, and 4′-OH-BDE49) in rat serum. In conclusion, we first found that BDE47 induced rat CYP3A1 expression by targeting the transcriptional regulation of miR-23b. This study helps provide a better understanding of CYP3A regulation and offers novel clues for the role of miRNAs in the metabolism and distribution of environmental pollutants.
Recent developments in polydopamine: an emerging soft matter for surface modification and biomedical applications
Authors: Liu Meiying , Zeng Guangjian , Wang Ke , Wan Qing , Tao Lei , Zhang Xiaoyong , Wei Yen
Published: August 2016

Recent progress and advances in mussel-inspired surface modification strategies and the biomedical applications of polydopamine-based materials are summarized in this review.
Observation of nanotwinning and room temperature ferromagnetism in sub-5 nm BiFeO3 nanoparticles: a combined experimental and theoretical study
Authors: Shirolkar Mandar M. , Dong Xiaolei , Li Jieni , Yin Shiliu , Li Ming , Wang Haiqian
Published: August 2016

The nanotwinning, covalent nature and magnetic properties of BiFeO3 nanoparticles of sub-5 nm size are investigated.
High-pressure single crystal X-ray diffraction study of thermoelectric ZnSb and β-Zn4Sb3
Authors: Borup Mette Andersen , Blichfeld Anders Bank , Madsen Solveig Røgild , Iversen Bo Brummerstedt
Published: August 2016

The crystal structures of thermoelectric ZnSb and Zn4Sb3 have been studied by high pressure single crystal X-ray diffraction and the pressure behavior is different from thermal response.
A symmetric, triply interlaced 3-D anionic MOF that exhibits both magnetic order and SMM behaviour
Authors: Campo J. , Falvello L. R. , Forcén-Vázquez E. , Sáenz de Pipaón C. , Palacio F. , Tomás M.
Published: August 2016

Triply interpenetrated diamondoid nets of a Co citrate MOF, formed by SMM Co citrate cubanes bridged by six-coordinated Co(ii), preserve SMM behavior with magnetic blocking at 3.8 K, presenting magnetic order at 2.7 K.
Dialkylboron guanidinates: syntheses, structures and carbodiimide de-insertion reactions
Authors: Antiñolo Antonio , Carrillo-Hermosilla Fernando , Fernández-Galán Rafael , Montero-Rama María Pilar , Ramos Alberto , Villaseñor Elena , Rojas Rene S. , Rodríguez-Diéguez Antonio
Published: August 2016

Solutions of some of the title compounds reached an equilibrium with the aminoboranes and the corresponding carbodiimides at room temperature.
Surface charge self-recovering electret film for wearable energy conversion in a harsh environment
Authors: Zhong Junwen , Zhong Qize , Chen Gangjin , Hu Bin , Zhao Sheng , Li Xin , Wu Nan , Li Wenbo , Yu Huimin , Zhou Jun
Published: August 2016

A laminated cellular electret film with surface charge self-recovery property for reliable wearable devices was developed.
Synthesis of a dual pH and temperature responsive star triblock copolymer based on β-cyclodextrins for controlled intracellular doxorubicin delivery release
Authors: Lu Beibei , Li Lei , Wu Jianning , Wei Lulu , Hou Jun , Liu Zhiyong , Guo Xuhong
Published: August 2016

Well-defined dual pH and temperature responsive triblock star-shaped amphiphilic copolymers of β-CD-g-(PHEMA-b-PNIPAM-b-PDMAEMA)3 were synthesized by the combination of RAFT polymerizations.
Ligand-directed assembly of trinuclear and one-dimensional heterotrimetallic CuIILnIIIFeIIIcomplexes: unusual antiferromagnetic CuIIFeIIIcoupling via cyano bridges
Authors: Liu Mei-Jiao , Hu Kong-Qiu , Liu Cai-Ming , Cui Ai-Li , Kou Hui-Zhong
Published: August 2016

Rare phenoxo- and cyano-bridged CuLnFe trinuclear complexes were prepared. The 1D Cu2DyFe complex displays both single-chain magnetic properties and the intrachain Cu(ii)–Fe(iii) antiferromagnetic coupling.
4,4′-Bismoschamine: biomimetic synthesis and evidence to support structural equivalency to montamine
Authors: Henry Kaitlin G. , Blair Lachlan M. , Sperry Jonathan , Colby Davie Elizabeth A.
Published: August 2016

A biomimetic synthesis of 4,4′-bismoschamine enabled comparison of its NMR data to dimeric tryptamines, which supports structural equivalency to montamine.
Structure–property relationships in hybrid (C3H5N2)3[Sb2I9] and (C3H5N2)3[Bi2I9] isomorphs
Authors: Węcławik M. , Gągor A. , Jakubas R. , Piecha-Bisiorek A. , Medycki W. , Baran J. , Zieliński P. , Gałązka M.
Published: August 2016

Two hybrid crystals imidazolium iodoantimonate(iii) and iodobismuthate(iii) have been synthesized and characterized in a wide temperature range (100–350 K) by means of X-ray diffraction, dielectric spectroscopy, proton magnetic resonance, FT-IR spectroscopy and optical observations.
A novel 3-D microporous magnesium-based metal–organic framework with open metal sites
Authors: Biswas Apurba , Kim Min-Bum , Kim Seo-Yul , Yoon Tae-Ung , Kim Seung-Ik , Bae Youn-Sang
Published: August 2016

A novel Mg(II) MOF [Mg4(bdc)4(DEF)4]n (1) containing coordinated DEF molecules has been synthesized. Heating 1 to 400 °C provides a DEF-free MOF (3) with open metal sites, resulting in large H2 and CO2 uptakes and high CO2/N2 selectivity.
Synthesis of silanized magnetic Ru/Fe3O4@SiO2 nanospheres and their high selectivity to prepare cis-pinane
Authors: Liu Yue , Li Lu , Liu Shiwei , Xie Congxia , Yu Shitao
Published: August 2016

(3-Aminopropyl)-triethoxysilane (APTS) and (3-mercaptopropyl)-trimethoxysilane (MPTS) grafted SiO2-coated iron oxide (Fe3O4@SiO2) magnetic supports were prepared ​and its high selectivity to prepare cis-pinane.
Effect of calcination temperature on structure, composition and properties of S2O82−/ZrO2 and its catalytic performance for removal of trace olefins from aromatics
Authors: Zhao Qing , Yao Jiajia , Shi Li , Wang Xin
Published: August 2016

Recyclable eco-friendly S2O82−/ZrO2 catalyst can be considered as a superior alternative material to commercial clays for the purification of aromatics.
Single etch fabrication and characterization of robust nanoparticle tipped bi-level superhydrophobic surfaces
Authors: Tripathy Abinash , Muralidharan Girish , Pramanik Amitava , Sen Prosenjit
Published: August 2016

Though hierarchical roughness gives best anti-wetting surfaces, they fail even under small mechanical stresses. In contrast dual level surfaces fabricated using a single etch step provides robust superhydrophobicity.
Liquid-based growth of polymeric carbon nitride films and their extraordinary photoelectrocatalytic activity
Authors: Wei Xiaoqing , Jiang Hailong , Liu Zhengxin
Published: August 2016

Polymeric carbon nitride films show an enhanced photocurrent response due to reduced grain boundary effects and strong adhesion with the substrates.
Explaining RANKL inhibition by OPG through quantum biochemistry computations and insights into peptide-design for the treatment of osteoporosis
Authors: Sousa Bruno L. , Barroso-Neto Ito L. , Oliveira Evanildo F. , Fonseca Emerson , Lima-Neto Pedro , Ladeira Luiz O. , Freire Valder N.
Published: August 2016

Quantum biochemistry computations are applied to precisely describe important protein–protein interactions, providing a basis for the design of inhibitory peptides against osteoporosis.
Scalable preparation of monodisperse micron-sized carbon microspheres and their application in anion-exchange chromatography
Authors: Zhao Qiming , Wu Shuchao , Zhang Peimin , Zhu Yan
Published: August 2016

Polyacrylic acid sodium (PAAS), which is an anionic water-soluble polymer, is widely utilized as a thickener in the food industry and flocculant in water treatment owing to its high anion density, low cost and nontoxicity.
Influence of F− on the electrochemical properties of titanium ions and Al–Ti alloy electrodeposition in molten AlCl3–NaCl
Authors: Song Jianxun , Mukherjee Abhishek
Published: August 2016

The present study reports the electrochemical properties of titanium ions in molten AlCl3–NaCl with various concentrations of fluoride anions.
Catalytic etherification of glycerol to tert-butyl glycerol ethers using tert-butanol over sulfonic acid functionalized mesoporous polymer
Authors: Manjunathan Pandian , Kumar Manish , Churipard Sathyapal R. , Sivasankaran S. , Shanbhag Ganapati V. , Maradur Sanjeev P.
Published: August 2016

Mesoporous polymers (MP) were synthesized by free radical polymerization of divinylbenzene by a solvothermal method followed by sulfonic acid functionalization by a post synthetic modification with conc.
Thioester reduction and aldehyde transamination are universal steps in actinobacterial polyketide alkaloid biosynthesis
Authors: Awodi U. R. , Ronan J. L. , Masschelein J. , de los Santos E. L. C. , Challis G. L.
Published: August 2016

Polyketide synthase reductive chain release and subsequent transamination are key steps in the biosynthesis of polyketide alkaloids in actinobacteria.
Physicochemical fabrication of calcium phosphate-based thin layers and nanospheres using laser processing in solutions
Authors: Nakamura Maki , Oyane Ayako
Published: August 2016

We achieved simple and rapid fabrication of calcium phosphate (CaP)-based thin layers and nanospheres by laser processing in supersaturated solutions.
Achieving better strategic fit and higher surplus for Australian beef value chains by recognising and countering chain failure
Authors: Mounter Stuart , Griffith Garry , Fleming Euan
Published: August 2016

Strategic fit is the nature of the link between the customer priorities that a value chain hopes to satisfy, and the capabilities that are available in the value chain to implement that objective. Usually, there is a trade-off between value chains that focus on being responsive to customer needs and those that focus on supplying at the lowest possible cost. If demand uncertainty is low, a low-cost value chain is the best strategic fit; conversely if demand uncertainty is high, a responsive value chain is the best fit. A poor fit means lower chain surplus to be shared among the chain participants. We provide an outline of an analytical framework for determining the optimal level of responsiveness for a food value chain. We then present and discuss two case studies. Both feature initiatives aimed at internalising positive chain externalities and capturing chain goods within the Australian beef value chain. We use our framework to show how these initiatives are predicted to promote responsiveness and thus achieve a better strategic fit and higher surplus for the whole chain. Verifying that such a move would indeed contribute to higher chain surplus would require some new measurements of whole-of-chain outcomes so that the economic relationships making up the framework could be estimated and analysed.
Synthesis of a Novel Dibenzylamide Derivative of p-tert-Octylcalix[4]arene and its Extraction Properties Towards Noble Metal Ions
Authors: Kim Jee Young , Priastomo Yoga , Morisada Shintaro , Kawakita Hidetaka , Ohto Keisuke , Kim Yang
Published: August 2016

A N,N-dibenzylacetoamide derivative of p-tert-octylcalix[4]arene was synthesised and its solvent extraction of precious metals in nitric acid media was investigated for determining the effects of extractant concentration and contact time as well as nitric acid concentration in comparison with a N,N-diethylacetoamide derivative. The extraction properties with both derivatives exhibited a slight difference. The extraction reaction of divalent palladium with both derivatives is discussed by slope analysis. The stripping behaviour of the extractant loaded with silver and palladium is also described using various stripping solutions.
Effects of zooplankton and nutrients on phytoplankton: an experimental analysis in a eutrophic tropical reservoir
Authors: dos Santos Severiano Juliana , dos Santos Almeida-Melo Viviane Lúcia , Marinho de Melo-Magalhães Enaide , do Carmo Bittencourt-Oliveira Maria , do Nascimento Moura Ariadne
Published: August 2016

Experiments were conducted to evaluate the N:P ratio, as well as the effects of the interaction between this ratio and zooplankton, on phytoplankton in a tropical reservoir. Three experiments were performed in the presence (+Z) or absence (–Z) of zooplankton and the addition of N and P in different ratios (N:P molar ratio of 5, 16 and 60).In Experiment I, the total phytoplankton biomass and biomass by taxonomic class and species of the N:P 16–Z treatment did not differ significantly from that of the control, whereas for N:P 16+Z, there was a reduction in total phytoplankton. In Experiment II, there was a significant increase in Bacillariophyceae and the biomass of two species in the N:P 60–Z treatment. For the N:P 60+Z treatment, a significant reduction was observed in the total phytoplankton biomass and the biomass of three phytoplankton classes and three species. In Experiment III, there was an increase in the biomass of Dinophyceae with the N:P 5–Z treatment. In the N:P 5+Z treatment, there was a significant reduction in total phytoplankton biomass and the biomass of the phytoplankton class and five species. The findings of the present study reveal that zooplankton species native to a tropical reservoir can change the structure of the phytoplankton community and the response of these organisms to variations in nutrients.
Phosphorus in agriculture, a limited resource.
Authors: Reijnders L.
Published: August 2016

Phosphorus (P) is a non-substitutable agricultural nutrient. Traditionally, agriculture was underpinned by natural processes leading to the release of phosphates which are available to crops, phosphate deposition from flooding and air, and often also by the recycling of organic residues. In parts of the world, these traditional P resources came to be viewed as a limiting factor to agricultural production in the nineteenth and early twentieth century. Feeding the current world population is dependent on these traditional P resources plus phosphate rock, which is the product of slow geological processes. Current practices are characterized by substantial P losses from agricultural soils, limited P use efficiency and limited recycling of organic residues to such soils. Continuation of such practices at current agricultural production levels will lead to a depletion of phosphate rock resources. Other potential P resources, such as P in steelmaking slags and landfills, seem relatively small if compared with phosphate rock resources. Phosphorus resources are limited but estimates regarding the timespan for depletion of phosphate rock resources vary much: between about 80 and about 1800 years at the current rate of mining. Phosphorus resources can be conserved by increased recycling of P to agricultural soils, reducing losses from agricultural soils and by improving the efficiency of P use in agriculture.
RhoA GTPase inhibition organizes contraction during epithelial morphogenesis
Authors: Mason Frank M. , Xie Shicong , Vasquez Claudia G. , Tworoger Michael , Martin Adam C.
Published: August 2016

During morphogenesis, contraction of the actomyosin cytoskeleton within individual cells drives cell shape changes that fold tissues. Coordination of cytoskeletal contractility is mediated by regulating RhoA GTPase activity. Guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) activate and GTPase-activating proteins (GAPs) inhibit RhoA activity. Most studies of tissue folding, including apical constriction, have focused on how RhoA is activated by GEFs to promote cell contractility, with little investigation as to how GAPs may be important. Here, we identify a critical role for a RhoA GAP, Cumberland GAP (C-GAP), which coordinates with a RhoA GEF, RhoGEF2, to organize spatiotemporal contractility during Drosophila melanogaster apical constriction. C-GAP spatially restricts RhoA pathway activity to a central position in the apical cortex. RhoGEF2 pulses precede myosin, and C-GAP is required for pulsation, suggesting that contractile pulses result from RhoA activity cycling. Finally, C-GAP expression level influences the transition from reversible to irreversible cell shape change, which defines the onset of tissue shape change. Our data demonstrate that RhoA activity cycling and modulating the ratio of RhoGEF2 to C-GAP are required for tissue folding.
Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia: still a concern in patients with haematological malignancies and stem cell transplant recipients
Authors: Cordonnier Catherine , Cesaro Simone , Maschmeyer Georg , Einsele Hermann , Donnelly J. Peter , Alanio Alexandre , Hauser Philippe M. , Lagrou Katrien , Melchers Willem J. G. , Helweg-Larsen Jannik , Matos Olga , Bretagne Stéphane , Maertens Johan
Published: August 2016

The risk of patients with ALL and recipients of an allogeneic HSCT developing Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia is sufficiently high to warrant guidelines for the laboratory diagnosis, prevention and treatment of the disease. In this issue, the European Conference on Infections in Leukemia (ECIL) presents its recommendations in three companion papers.
ECIL guidelines for preventing Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia in patients with haematological malignancies and stem cell transplant recipients
Authors: Maertens Johan , Cesaro Simone , Maschmeyer Georg , Einsele Hermann , Donnelly J. Peter , Alanio Alexandre , Hauser Philippe M. , Lagrou Katrien , Melchers Willem J. G. , Helweg-Larsen Jannik , Matos Olga , Bretagne Stéphane , Cordonnier Catherine
Published: August 2016

The 5th European Conference on Infections in Leukaemia (ECIL-5) meeting aimed to establish evidence-based recommendations for the prophylaxis of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP) in non-HIV-infected patients with an underlying haematological condition, including allogeneic HSCT recipients. Recommendations were based on the grading system of the IDSA. Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole given 2–3 times weekly is the drug of choice for the primary prophylaxis of PCP in adults (A-II) and children (A-I) and should be given during the entire period at risk. Recent data indicate that children may benefit equally from a once-weekly regimen (B-II). All other drugs, including pentamidine, atovaquone and dapsone, are considered second-line alternatives when trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole is poorly tolerated or contraindicated. The main indications of PCP prophylaxis are ALL, allogeneic HSCT, treatment with alemtuzumab, fludarabine/cyclophosphamide/rituximab combinations, >4 weeks of treatment with corticosteroids and well-defined primary immune deficiencies in children. Additional indications are proposed depending on the treatment regimen.
Asthma
Authors: Volcheck Gerald W.
Published: August 2016

Bronchial hyperresponsiveness and airway inflammation are common to all forms of asthma. Hyperresponsiveness is measured by assessing pulmonary function before and after exposure to albuterol, methacholine, histamine, cold air, or exercise. A decrease in forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) of 20% or more with challenge or an increase in FEV1 of 12% or more with albuterol is considered a sign of airway hyperreactivity. Patients who have chronic asthma and negative results on allergy skin tests usually have an inflammatory infiltrate in the bronchi and histologic findings dominated by eosinophils when asthma is active.
Arrhythmias and Syncope
Authors: Noseworthy Peter A.
Published: August 2016

Cardiac arrhythmias are due to disorders of impulse propagation (reentry) or impulse formation (abnormal automaticity or triggered activity). Reentry is the most common mechanism of arrhythmia and is further classified as macroreentrant or microreentrant. Macroreentrant arrhythmias have a discrete, definable circuit such as atrioventricular (AV) reentrant tachycardia (sustained over AV nodal, ventricular, accessory pathway, and ventricular tissue) or ventricular tachycardia (sustained around an area of myocardial scar or infarcted tissue). Microreentry occurs within a circuit that is too small to be mapped and thus appears to arise from a single point in the myocardium.
Obesity and Nutritional Disorders
Authors: Hurt Ryan T.
Published: August 2016

The prevalence of overweight and obesity has been increasing in the United States and the westernized world. The cause of the recent obesity epidemic involves a complex interplay between genetic and environmental factors. Specific, rare genetic disruptions of the hypothalamic regulation of energy homeostasis pathways can cause obesity (eg, Prader-Willi syndrome). Most cases of obesity result from a group of gene variants exposed to environmental factors. The 2 major environmental factors that contribute to overweight and obesity are excess caloric intake and low physical activity.
Colonic Disorders
Authors: Loftus Conor G.
Published: August 2016

Inflammatory bowel disease refers to 2 disorders of unknown cause: ulcerative colitis and Crohn disease. Other possible causes of inflammation, especially infection, should be excluded before making the diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease. The presence of chronic inflammation on biopsy is the key factor for making a diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease.