bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Creation of Sub-diffraction Longitudinally Polarized Spot by Focusing Radially Polarized Light with Binary Phase Lens
Authors: Yu An-ping , Chen Gang , Zhang Zhi-hai , Wen Zhong-quan , Dai Lu-ru , Zhang Kun , Jiang Sen-lin , Wu Zhi-xiang , Li Yu-yan , Wang Chang-tao , Luo Xian-gang
Published: December 2016

The generation of a sub-diffraction longitudinally polarized spot is of great interest in various applications, such as optical tweezers, super-resolution microscopy, high-resolution Raman spectroscopy, and high-density optical data storage. Many theoretical investigations have been conducted into the tight focusing of a longitudinally polarized spot with high-numerical-aperture aplanatic lenses in combination with optical filters. Optical super-oscillation provides a new approach to focusing light beyond the diffraction limit. Here, we propose a planar binary phase lens and experimentally demonstrate the generation of a longitudinally polarized sub-diffraction focal spot by focusing radially polarized light. The lens has a numerical aperture of 0.93 and a long focal length of 200λ for wavelength λ = 632.8 nm, and the generated focal spot has a full-width-at-half-maximum of about 0.456λ, which is smaller than the diffraction limit, 0.54λ. A 5λ-long longitudinally polarized optical needle with sub-diffraction size is also observed near the designed focal point.
p53 activates miR-192-5p to mediate vancomycin induced AKI
Authors: Chen Jinwen , Wang Juan , Li Huiling , Wang Shixuan , Xiang Xudong , Zhang Dongshan
Published: December 2016

Pathogenic role of p53 in AKI remains controversial and the underlying mechanism is unclear. Here, we tested whether the inhibition of p53 may ameliorate vancomycin (VAN) induced acute kidney injury (AKI). Mice with p53 knock out (p53-KO) were resistant to VAN induced AKI, indicated by the analysis of renal function, histology, and apoptosis. Mechanistically, AKI was associated with the upregulation of several known p53 target genes, including Bax and p21, and this association was attenuated in p53-KO mice. Furthermore, the expression of miR-192-5p was significantly decreased in the p53-KO kidney tissues. In human renal tubular epithelial cell line (HK-2), VAN induced p53 accumulation and miR-192-5p expression. Both apoptosis of HK-2 cells and expression of miR-192-5p were also suppressed by pifithrin-α. Anti-miR-192-5p significantly blocked VAN-induced apoptosis and caspase activity in HK-2 cells. Consistently, in vivo inhibition of miR-192-5p also suppressed VAN induced AKI. Thus, we provided clinical and genetic evidence that p53 was associated with the development of VAN induced AKI through upregulation of miR-192-5p.
Unconscious processing of invisible visual stimuli
Authors: Song Chen , Yao Haishan
Published: December 2016

Unconscious processing of subliminal visual information, as illustrated by the above-chance accuracy in discriminating invisible visual stimuli, is evident in both blindsight patients and healthy human observers. However, the dependence of such unconscious processing on stimulus properties remains unclear. Here we studied the impact of stimulus luminance and stimulus complexity on the extent of unconscious processing. A testing stimulus presented to one eye was rendered invisible by a masking stimulus presented to the other eye, and healthy human participants made a forced-choice discrimination of the stimulus identity followed by a report of the perceptual awareness. Without awareness of the stimulus existence, participants could nevertheless reach above-chance accuracy in discriminating the stimulus identity. Importantly, the discrimination accuracy for invisible stimuli increased with the stimulus luminance and decreased with the stimulus complexity. These findings suggested that the input signal strength and the input signal complexity can affect the extent of unconscious processing without altering the subjective awareness.
Whole-genome sequencing of eight goat populations for the detection of selection signatures underlying production and adaptive traits
Authors: Wang Xiaolong , Liu Jing , Zhou Guangxian , Guo Jiazhong , Yan Hailong , Niu Yiyuan , Li Yan , Yuan Chao , Geng Rongqing , Lan Xianyong , An Xiaopeng , Tian Xingui , Zhou Huangkai , Song Jiuzhou , Jiang Yu , Chen Yulin
Published: December 2016

The goat (Capra hircus) is one of the first farm animals that have undergone domestication and extensive natural and artificial selection by adapting to various environments, which in turn has resulted in its high level of phenotypic diversity. Here, we generated medium-coverage (9–13×) sequences from eight domesticated goat breeds, representing morphologically or geographically specific populations, to identify genomic regions representing selection signatures. We discovered ~10 million single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for each breed. By combining two approaches, ZHp and di values, we identified 22 genomic regions that may have contributed to the phenotypes in coat color patterns, body size, cashmere traits, as well as high altitude adaptation in goat populations. Candidate genes underlying strong selection signatures including coloration (ASIP, KITLG, HTT, GNA11, and OSTM1), body size (TBX15, DGCR8, CDC25A, and RDH16), cashmere traits (LHX2, FGF9, and WNT2), and hypoxia adaptation (CDK2, SOCS2, NOXA1, and ENPEP) were identified. We also identified candidate functional SNPs within selected genes that may be important for each trait. Our results demonstrated the potential of using sequence data in identifying genomic regions that are responsible for agriculturally significant phenotypes in goats, which in turn can be used in the selection of goat breeds for environmental adaptation and domestication.
Interleukin-37 Enhances the Suppressive Activity of Naturally Occurring CD4+CD25+ Regulatory T Cells
Authors: Wang Da-Wei , Dong Ning , Wu Yao , Zhu Xiao-Mei , Wang Chun-Ting , Yao Yong-Ming
Published: December 2016

Naturally occurring CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) are essential for the suppression of autoimmunity and can control the immune-mediated pathology during the early phase of sepsis. Our previous data showed that silencing interleukin-37 (IL-37) in human CD4+CD25+ Tregs obviously reduced the suppressive activity of CD4+CD25+ Tregs. Here, we found that rhIL-37 stimulation markedly enhanced the suppressive activity of CD4+CD25+ Tregs isolated from naive C57BL/6 J mice in the absence or presence of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Treatment with rhIL-37 could significantly upregulate the expression of cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen (CTLA)-4 and forkhead/winged helix transcription factor p3 (Foxp3) on CD4+CD25+ Tregs. Also, rhIL-37 stimulation promoted the production of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) but not IL-10 in the supernatants of cultured CD4+CD25+ Tregs. Pretreated CD4+CD25+ Tregs with rhIL-37 in the presence or absence of LPS were cocultured with CD4+CD25− T cells, ratio of IL-4/interferon-γ in the supernatants obviously increased in IL-37-stimulated groups. In addition, early administration of IL-37 significantly improved the survival rate of septic mice induced by cecal ligation and puncture. Taken together, we concluded that rhIL-37 enhances the suppressive activity of CD4+CD25+ Tregs and might be a potential immunomodulator for the treatment of septic complications.
Unusual dimeric tetrahydroxanthone derivatives from Aspergillus lentulus and the determination of their axial chiralities
Authors: Li Tian-Xiao , Yang Ming-Hua , Wang Ying , Wang Xiao-Bing , Luo Jun , Luo Jian-Guang , Kong Ling-Yi
Published: December 2016

The research on secondary metabolites of Aspergillus lentulus afforded eight unusual heterodimeric tetrahydroxanthone derivatives, lentulins A−H (2−9), along with the known compound neosartorin (1). Compounds 1−6 exhibited potent antimicrobial activities especially against methicillin-resistant Staphylococci. Their absolute configurations, particularly the axial chiralities, were unambiguously demonstrated by a combination of electronic circular dichroism (ECD), Rh2(OCOCF3)4-induced ECD experiments, modified Mosher methods, and chemical conversions. Interestingly, compounds 1–4 were the first samples of atropisomers within the dimeric tetrahydroxanthone class. Further investigation of the relationships between their axial chiralities and ECD Cotton effects led to the proposal of a specific CD Exciton Chirality rule to determine the axial chiralities in dimeric tetrahydroxanthones and their derivatives.
Size-dependent bending modulus of nanotubes induced by the imperfect boundary conditions
Authors: Zhang Jin
Published: December 2016

The size-dependent bending modulus of nanotubes, which was widely observed in most existing three-point bending experiments [e.g., J. Phys. Chem. B 117, 4618–4625 (2013)], has been tacitly assumed to originate from the shear effect. In this paper, taking boron nitride nanotubes as an example, we directly measured the shear effect by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and found that the shear effect is not the major factor responsible for the observed size-dependent bending modulus of nanotubes. To further explain the size-dependence phenomenon, we abandoned the assumption of perfect boundary conditions (BCs) utilized in the aforementioned experiments and studied the influence of the BCs on the bending modulus of nanotubes based on MD simulations. The results show that the imperfect BCs also make the bending modulus of nanotubes size-dependent. Moreover, the size-dependence phenomenon induced by the imperfect BCs is much more significant than that induced by the shear effect, which suggests that the imperfect BC is a possible physical origin that leads to the strong size-dependence of the bending modulus found in the aforementioned experiments. To capture the physics behind the MD simulation results, a beam model with the general BCs is proposed and found to fit the experimental data very well.
Adiporedoxin suppresses endothelial activation via inhibiting MAPK and NF-κB signaling
Authors: He Hui , Guo Fang , Li Yong , Saaoud Fatma , Kimmis Brooks D. , Sandhu Jeena , Fan Michelle , Maulik Dev , Lessner Susan , Papasian Christopher J. , Fan Daping , Jiang Zhisheng , Fu Mingui
Published: December 2016

Adiporedoxin (Adrx) is a recently discovered redox regulatory protein that is preferentially expressed in adipose tissue and plays a critical role in the regulation of metabolism via its modulation of adipocyte protein secretion. We here report that Adrx suppresses endothelial cell activation via inhibiting MAPK and NF-kB signaling pathways. Adrx is constitutively expressed in human vascular endothelial cells, and significantly induced by a variety of stimuli such as TNFα, IL-1β, H2O2 and OxLDL. Overexpression of Adrx significantly attenuated TNFα-induced expression of VCAM-1 and ICAM-1, and thus reduced monocyte adherence to human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Conversely, siRNA-mediated knockdown of Adrx increased TNFα-induced expression of adhesion molecules and monocyte adherence to HUVECs. Furthermore, forced expression of Adrx decreased TNFα-induced activation of ERK1/2, JNK, p38 and IKKs in HUVECs. Adrx mutant in the CXXC motif that lost its anti-redox activity is less efficient than the wild-type Adrx, suggesting that Adrx-mediated inhibition of endothelial activation is partially dependent on its antioxidant activity. Finally, Adrx expression was markedly increased in human atheroma compared with normal tissue from the same carotid arteries. These results suggest that Adrx is an endogenous inhibitor of endothelial activation, and might be a therapeutic target for vascular inflammatory diseases.
The role of GRIP1 and ephrin B3 in blood pressure control and vascular smooth muscle cell contractility
Authors: Wang Yujia , Wu Zenghui , Luo Hongyu , Peng Junzheng , Raelson John , Ehret Georg B. , Munroe Patricia B. , Stoyanova Ekatherina , Qin Zhao , Cloutier Guy , Bradley W. Edward , Wu Tao , Shen Jian-Zhong , Hu Shenjiang , Wu Jiangping
Published: December 2016

Several erythropoietin-producing hepatocellular receptor B family (EPHB) and their ligands, ephrinBs (EFNBs), are involved in blood pressure regulation in animal models. We selected 528 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within the genes of EPHB6, EFNB2, EFNB3 and GRIP1 in the EPH/EFN signalling system to query the International Blood Pressure Consortium dataset. A SNP within the glutamate receptor interacting protein 1 (GRIP1) gene presented a p-value of 0.000389, approaching the critical p-value of 0.000302, for association with diastolic blood pressure of 60,396 individuals. According to echocardiography, we found that Efnb3 gene knockout mice showed enhanced constriction in the carotid arteries. In vitro studies revealed that in mouse vascular smooth muscle cells, siRNA knockdown of GRIP1, which is in the EFNB3 reverse signalling pathway, resulted in increased contractility of these cells. These data suggest that molecules in the EPHB/EFNB signalling pathways, specifically EFNB3 and GRIP1, are involved blood pressure regulation.
Single plasmonic nanoparticles as ultrasensitive sensors
Authors: Xie Tao , Jing Chao , Long Yi-Tao
Published: December 2016

In this mini review, we will provide a brief introduction focusing on the current applications of single plasmonic nanoparticle-based sensors using DFM, including the detection of molecules, the real-time monitoring of chemical/electrochemical reactions and the imaging of living cells.
Reversible formylborane/SO2coupling at a frustrated Lewis pair framework
Authors: Ye Ke-Yin , Bursch Markus , Qu Zheng-Wang , Daniliuc Constantin G. , Grimme Stefan , Kehr Gerald , Erker Gerhard
Published: December 2016

The frustrated Lewis pair stabilized η2-formylborane inserts sulfur dioxide into the three-membered ring.
A CoOx-modified SnNb2O6photoelectrode for highly efficient oxygen evolution from water
Authors: Niishiro Ryo , Takano Yuichi , Jia Qingxin , Yamaguchi Masaharu , Iwase Akihide , Kuang Yongbo , Minegishi Tsutomu , Yamada Taro , Domen Kazunari , Kudo Akihiko
Published: December 2016

SnNb2O6has arisen as a highly efficient photoanode for water oxidation to O2under simulated sunlight irradiation.
An efficient parts-per-million α-Fe2O3 nanocluster/graphene oxide catalyst for Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reactions and 4-nitrophenol reduction in aqueous solution
Authors: Wang Changlong , Salmon Lionel , Ciganda Roberto , Yate Luis , Moya Sergio , Ruiz Jaime , Astruc Didier
Published: December 2016

α-Fe2O3 nanoclusters supported onto a graphene oxide catalyst are shown for the first time to catalyze Suzuki–Miyaura coupling and 4-nitrophenol reduction in aqueous solution with only parts-per-million loading.
Strongly enhanced Raman scattering of Cu-phthalocyanine sandwiched between graphene and Au(111)
Authors: Lin Wan-Ing , Gholami Mohammad Fardin , Beyer Paul , Severin Nikolai , Shao Feng , Zenobi Renato , Rabe Jürgen P.
Published: December 2016

Graphene and flat gold have both been argued to enhance Raman scattering of molecular adsorbates through a chemical mechanism. Here we show that these two effects can add to each other.
Selective C–H trifluoromethylation of benzimidazoles through photoredox catalysis
Authors: Gao Guo-Lin , Yang Chao , Xia Wujiong
Published: December 2016

This protocol presented a new strategy for visible light induced C–H trifluoromethylation at the C4 of benzimidazoles using Togni's reagent in the presence of fac-Ir(ppy)3.
Correction: A binary catalyst system of a cationic Ru–CNC pincer complex with an alkali metal salt for selective hydroboration of carbon dioxide
Authors: Ng Chee Koon , Wu Jie , Hor T. S. Andy , Luo He-Kuan
Published: December 2016

Correction for ‘A binary catalyst system of a cationic Ru–CNC pincer complex with an alkali metal salt for selective hydroboration of carbon dioxide’ by Chee Koon Ng et al., Chem. Commun., 2016, 52, 11842–11845.
Induced core–shell structure and the electric properties of (K0.48Na0.52)0.95Li0.05Nb0.95Sb0.05O3 ceramics
Authors: Zhou Min , Lu Xiaomei , Yang Dianyuan , He Ju , Huang Fengzhen , Mei Fang , Ren Xianming , Xu Xingyu , Li Yang , Zhu Jinsong
Published: December 2016

K-Deficient samples show the core–shell grain structure, shells with accumulated K+ vacancies is the predominant source for dielectric relaxation, which can also pin domain walls and block the polarization switching.
OH production from the photolysis of isoprene-derived peroxy radicals: cross-sections, quantum yields and atmospheric implications
Authors: Hansen Robert F. , Lewis Tom R. , Graham Lee , Whalley Lisa K. , Seakins Paul W. , Heard Dwayne E. , Blitz Mark A.
Published: December 2016

The OH radical production from the near-ultraviolet photolysis of peroxy radicals derived from isoprene has been investigated.
Doping anatase TiO2 with group V-b and VI-b transition metal atoms: a hybrid functional first-principles study
Authors: Matsubara Masahiko , Saniz Rolando , Partoens Bart , Lamoen Dirk
Published: December 2016

We investigate the role of transition metal atoms of group V-b (V, Nb, and Ta) and VI-b (Cr, Mo, and W) as n- or p-type dopants in anatase TiO2 using thermodynamic principles and density functional theory with the HSE06 hybrid functional.
Computational study of the interplay between intermolecular interactions and CO2orientations in type I hydrates
Authors: Pérez-Rodríguez M. , Vidal-Vidal A. , Míguez J. M. , Blas F. J. , Torré J.-P. , Piñeiro M. M.
Published: December 2016

Carbon dioxide molecules show a rich orientation landscape when they are enclathrated in type I hydrates, due to lattice geometry but also to intermolecular guest–guest interactions.
Intrinsic magnetism and spontaneous band gap opening in bilayer silicene and germanene
Authors: Wang Xinquan , Wu Zhigang
Published: December 2016

It has been long sought to create magnetism out of simple non-magnetic materials, such as silicon and germanium. We show that intrinsic magnetism exists in bilayer silicene and germanene without any modifications.
Jahn–Teller effect in LiMn2O4: influence on charge ordering, magnetoresistance and battery performance
Authors: Ragavendran K. , Xia H. , Mandal P. , Arof A. K.
Published: December 2016

The phase transition near room temperature in LiMn2O4 was studied as a function of the oxygen non-stoichiometry and as a function of the grain size of the cathode material and directly compared with its electrochemical performance.
On the dielectric decrement of electrolyte solutions: a dressed-ion theory analysis
Authors: Persson Rasmus A. X.
Published: December 2016

The calculation of the dielectric constant in dressed-ion theory is phenomenologically modified to account for conduction.
Negative thermal expansion in 2H CuScO2 originating from the cooperation of transverse thermal vibrations of Cu and O atoms
Authors: Chang Dahu , Yu Weiyang , Sun Qiang , Jia Yu
Published: December 2016

Negative thermal expansion in 2H CuScO2 originates from the cooperation of transverse thermal vibrations of Cu and O atoms.
QCT dynamics study of OH/OD + GeH4 reactions. The problem of water bending excitation
Authors: Espinosa-Garcia J. , Corchado J. C.
Published: December 2016

The difficulties in the description of the water bending population could be related to the zero-point violation problem in QCT calculations.
Integrating recognition elements with nanomaterials for bacteria sensing
Authors: Chen Juhong , Andler Stephanie M. , Goddard Julie M. , Nugen Sam R. , Rotello Vincent M.
Published: December 2016

The integration of recognition elements with nanomaterials provides a synergystic strategy for sensing of bacteria.
Fe/Fe3C@N-doped porous carbon hybrids derived from nano-scale MOFs: robust and enhanced heterogeneous catalyst for peroxymonosulfate activation
Authors: Zeng Tao , Yu Mingdong , Zhang Haiyan , He Zhiqiao , Chen Jianmeng , Song Shuang
Published: December 2016

Fe/Fe3C@N-doped porous carbon hybrids were synthesized as a robust and enhanced heterogeneous catalyst for peroxymonosulfate activation.
Cytotoxic and antimicrobial effects of indium(iii) complexes with 2-acetylpyridine-derived thiosemicarbazones
Authors: Oliveira Alexandre A. , Perdigão Gabriele M. C. , Rodrigues Luana E. , da Silva Jeferson G. , Souza-Fagundes Elaine M. , Takahashi Jacqueline A. , Rocha Willian R. , Beraldo Heloisa
Published: December 2016

Indium(iii) complexes with thiosemicarbazones are cytotoxic to human leukemia and solid tumor cells with high selectivity indexes.
Diversity of reactivity modes upon interplay between Au(iii)-bound isocyanides and cyclic nitrones: a theoretical consideration
Authors: Kuznetsov Maxim L. , Kukushkin Vadim Yu.
Published: December 2016

The chemical diversity of the reactions between Au(iii)-bound isocyanides and cyclic nitrones was investigated by theoretical (DFT) methods.
Synthesis and characterization of phosphorescent two-coordinate copper(i) complexes bearing diamidocarbene ligands
Authors: Shi Shuyang , Collins Lee R. , Mahon Mary F. , Djurovich Peter I. , Thompson Mark E. , Whittlesey Michael K.
Published: December 2016

[(DAC)2Cu][BF4] (1) shows a high photoluminescence quantum efficiency (ΦPL) in the solid state and in solution under both N2and O2.
3d–4f heterometallic trinuclear complexes derived from amine-phenol tripodal ligands exhibiting magnetic and luminescent properties
Authors: Wen He-Rui , Dong Piao-Ping , Liu Sui-Jun , Liao Jin-Sheng , Liang Fu-Yong , Liu Cai-Ming
Published: December 2016

The syntheses, crystal structures, and magnetic properties of a family of new 3d–4f heterometallic trinuclear complexes were investigated. Slow magnetic relaxation was observed for the Zn–Dy–Zn complex besides stronger fluorescent emissions.
Unusual N-oxide formation in the peroxidation of cobalt(ii) ethylenediaminetetraacetates
Authors: Yang Yu-Chen , Wu Rui , Cai Yan , Zhou Zhao-Hui
Published: December 2016

Unlike normal peroxo and superoxo products isolated in the oxidation of Co(ii) to Co(iii), an unusual ligand insertion in the peroxidation of cobalt(ii) ethylenediaminetetraacetate results in the formation ofN-oxide derivatives.
Two hybrid transition metal triphosphonates decorated with a tripodal imidazole ligand: synthesis, structures and properties
Authors: Wang Guo-Ming , Li Jin-Hua , Pan Jie , Xue Zhen-Zhen , Wei Li , Han Song-De , Bao Zhen-Zhen , Wang Zong-Hua
Published: December 2016

Two transition-metal triphosphonates with pillar-layered structures were synthesized and characterized. The luminescence, magnetic and proton conductive properties were investigated.
Development and application of an improved protocol to characterize biofilms in biologically active drinking water filters
Authors: Elhadidy Ahmed M. , Van Dyke Michele I. , Chen Fei , Peldszus Sigrid , Huck Peter M.
Published: December 2016

The objective was to develop and apply an improved, comprehensive biofilm characterization protocol for cellular and extracellular polymeric substances in drinking water biofilters.
Effects of weight loss using supplementation with Lactobacillus strains on body fat and medium-chain acylcarnitines in overweight individuals
Authors: Kim Minkyung , Kim Minjoo , Kang Miso , Yoo Hye Jin , Kim Min Sun , Ahn Young-Tae , Sim Jae-Hun , Jee Sun Ha , Lee Jong Ho
Published: December 2016

Probiotic supplementation increased the levels of C8:1, C14:1, C10, and C12:1 acylcarnitines, and these increases were correlated with a decrease in the body weight, body fat percentage, body fat mass and L1 subcutaneous fat area.
From pollen grains to functionalized microcapsules: a facile chemical route using ionic liquids
Authors: Chiappe Cinzia , Demontis Gian Carlo , Di Bussolo Valeria , Rodriguez Douton Maria Jesus , Rossella Francesco , Pomelli Christian Silvio , Sartini Stefania , Caporali Stefano
Published: December 2016

Ionic liquids can remove proteins and the cellulosic cell wall from pollen grains assuring grain integrity and allowing direct functionalization of the sporopollenin.
Hydrogenation of levoglucosenone to renewable chemicals
Authors: Krishna Siddarth H. , McClelland Daniel J. , Rashke Quinn A. , Dumesic James A. , Huber George W.
Published: December 2016

Herein, we elucidate the reaction network for catalytic hydrogenation of the biomass-derived intermediate levoglucosenone into several different renewable chemicals.
Hollow SnO2@carbon core–shell spheres stabilized on reduced graphene oxide for high-performance sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Sridhar Vadahanambi , Park Hyun
Published: December 2016

Graphene exhibits superior performance in sodium-ion batteries when it is hybridized with hollow carbon encapsulated SnO2.
Palladium/copper-catalyzed arylation of alkenes with N′-acyl arylhydrazines
Authors: Zhang Ji-Quan , Cao Jun , Li Wei , Li Shu-Min , Li Yong-Kang , Wang Jian-Ta , Tang Lei
Published: December 2016

An efficient and ligand-free palladium/copper-catalyzed Heck-type coupling reaction of N′-acyl arylhydrazines with olefins for the practical synthesis of arylalkenes.
Ring-opening polymerization of ω-pentadecalactone catalyzed by phosphazene superbases
Authors: Ladelta Viko , Bilalis Panayiotis , Gnanou Yves , Hadjichristidis Nikos
Published: December 2016

A fast and living ring-opening polymerization (ROP) of ω-pentadecalactone (PDL), a representative monomer of macrolactones, was achieved using a primary alcohol as the initiator and t-BuP4 or t-octP4 as the catalyst.
Construction of 3D homochiral metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) of Cd(ii): selective CO2adsorption and catalytic properties for the Knoevenagel and Henry reaction
Authors: Ugale Bharat , Dhankhar Sandeep Singh , Nagaraja C. M.
Published: December 2016

Syntheses of two new homochiral, 3D metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) of Cd(ii) and the selective CO2adsorption and catalytic properties of1has been demonstrated.
Gene expression profiling analysis reveals a crucial gene regulating metabolism in adventitious roots of neem (Azadirachta indica)
Authors: Wang Shanying , Zhang Hao , Li Xinglin , Zhang Jian
Published: December 2016

Neem is a widely used traditional plant containing bioactive secondary metabolites, especially azadirachtin.
Characterizing aliphatic moieties in hydrocarbons with atomic force microscopy
Authors: Schuler Bruno , Zhang Yunlong , Collazos Sara , Fatayer Shadi , Meyer Gerhard , Pérez Dolores , Guitián Enrique , Harper Michael R. , Kushnerick J. Douglas , Peña Diego , Gross Leo
Published: December 2016

High-resolution atomic force microscopy fingerprints of alkyl and cycloaliphatic moieties were obtained on tailor-made hydrocarbon model compounds.
A solid oxide photoelectrochemical cell with UV light-driven oxygen storage in mixed conducting electrodes
Authors: Walch Gregor , Rotter Bernhard , Brunauer Georg Christoph , Esmaeili Esmaeil , Opitz Alexander Karl , Kubicek Markus , Summhammer Johann , Ponweiser Karl , Fleig Jürgen
Published: December 2016

A SrTiO3 working electrode at 360–460 °C incorporates oxygen under UV illumination. This leads to a voltage in a solid oxide (photo-)electrochemical cell..
Improved electro-grafting of nitropyrene onto onion-like carbon via in situ electrochemical reduction and polymerization: tailoring redox energy density of the supercapacitor positive electrode
Authors: Anothumakkool Bihag , Taberna Pierre-Louis , Daffos Barbara , Simon Patrice , Sayed-Ahmad-Baraza Yuman , Ewels Chris , Brousse Thierry , Gaubicher Joel
Published: December 2016

Physical grafting of 1-nitropyrene (Pyr-NO2) onto carbon onion via in situ reduction of the NO2 group and pyrene polymerization for supercapacitor positive electrode.
Interface engineering in planar perovskite solar cells: energy level alignment, perovskite morphology control and high performance achievement
Authors: Yang Guang , Wang Changlei , Lei Hongwei , Zheng Xiaolu , Qin Pingli , Xiong Liangbin , Zhao Xingzhong , Yan Yanfa , Fang Guojia
Published: December 2016

APTES-SAM as an efficient interfacial layer in planar perovskite solar cells, optimizing the interface and enhancing performance.
Controllable fabrication of a N and B co-doped carbon shell on the surface of TiO2 as a support for boosting the electrochemical performances
Authors: Chang Ying , Yuan Conghui , Li Yuntong , Liu Cheng , Wu Tong , Zeng Birong , Xu Yiting , Dai Lizong
Published: December 2016

Pt nanoparticles loaded on TiO2@N,B co-doped carbon core–shell supports with tunable shell thickness possess enhanced electrochemical performances.
Co3O4@CeO2 hybrid flower-like microspheres: a strong synergistic peroxidase-mimicking artificial enzyme with high sensitivity for glucose detection
Authors: Jampaiah Deshetti , Srinivasa Reddy T. , Coyle Victoria E. , Nafady Ayman , Bhargava Suresh K.
Published: December 2016

Herein, we demonstrate strong synergistic Co3O4@CeO2 hybrid microspheres as peroxidase mimicking artificial enzymes for the sensitive and selective detection of glucose.
Surface functionalization of molybdenum dinitride nanosheets by halogen and alkali atoms: a first-principles study
Authors: Ding Yi , Wang Yanli
Published: December 2016

Surface functionalization brings diverse electronic properties to MoN2 sheets, which even possess partially occupied NFE states with alkali atom decorations.
Cystamine attenuated behavioral deficiency via increasing the expression of BDNF and activating PI3K/Akt signaling in 2,5-hexanedione intoxicated rats
Authors: Wang Shuo , Li Xianjie , Li Ming , Jiang Lulu , Yuan Hua , Han Wenting , Wang Xujing , Zeng Tao , Xie Keqin
Published: December 2016

Organic solvent-induced neurodegeneration is a severe public health problem which has no effective prevention measures yet.
An Introduction to Camps for Children Who Stutter: What They Are and How They Can Help
Authors: Byrd Courtney , Chmela Kristin , Coleman Craig , Weidner Mary , Kelly Ellen , Reichhardt Robert , Irani Farzan
Published: December 2016

Stuttering therapy for children, both preschool and school-age, has been offered in a variety of settings and formats, for example in schools, university clinics, outpatient clinics, and private practices. Therapy itself is offered either in a group setting or a one-to-one basis in many of these settings. In recent years, there has been an increase in specialized camps (generally offered in the summer) for children who stutter. Camps for children who stutter vary in duration and offer a combination of group and individual therapy in addition to activities designed to address the affective and cognitive aspects of stuttering and increase overall communicative effectiveness. This paper provides an overview and description of five such camps for children who stutter to help spread awareness and familiarize the listener with the role camps play in helping children who stutter. Preliminary outcome data on the various goals targeted within some of the camps is included; however, that is not the purpose of this paper.
Will Education About Biological Causes of Stuttering Reduce Stigma?
Authors: Boyle Michael P.
Published: December 2016

As strong evidence accumulates, professionals increasingly are using biological causes to explain the occurrence of stuttering. Many professionals view biological explanations as having the potential to be stigma-reducing for people who stutter. However, some researchers have theorized that biological attributions could increase stigma by making the person seem more fundamentally different from others, and propagating the belief that the person's condition is more resistant to change. In this paper, I review different theoretical positions for the relationship between biological attributions for disorders and stigma, as well as research findings in support of those theories. In addition, research on the implications of biological attributions for self-stigma and public stigma experienced by people who stutter will be reviewed. From the review of the literature, it is determined that biological explanations for stuttering do not reduce stigma relative to providing no explanation at all. However, providing a biological explanation can result in less blame towards people who stutter, relative to receiving a psychobehavioral explanation. Biological explanations appear to lead to increased prognostic pessimism relative to psychobehavioral explanations. This paper is concluded with applications of how these data can inform future education efforts to reduce the stigma associated with stuttering.
An Overview of Facilities Providing Clinical Services for Persons Who Stutter in Kuwait
Authors: Alsalmi Latifa , Mayo Robert
Published: December 2016

Presently, no clear picture is available about the facilities providing clinical services for persons who stutter (PWS) in Kuwait. This information is crucial for any awareness program to be established in the future. The purpose of this study was to identify clinical facilities and speech-language personnel that provide services for PWS in Kuwait. Participants consisted of 21 clinical directors of governmental medical centers, non-profit clinics, and private clinics as well as department heads of governmental school clinics where speech-language services were provided. Participants were interviewed regarding the availability of speech-language services within their centers and whether or not PWS receive services. The results revealed that four out of five governmental medical centers with a total of 32 speech-language pathologists (SLPs) provided services for PWS. Additionally, 12 schools of special education were found to have 62 SLPs on their staff providing fluency services for students. Finally, two stand-alone private clinics and one non-profit clinic provided services for PWS. Results indicated an overall shortage of SLPs in the country, especially in medical settings. This study sets the foundation for a series of future studies investigating the type and quality of stuttering services provided by the identified facilities in Kuwait.
Meta‐action descriptor for action recognition in RGBD video
Authors: Huang Min , Su Song‐Zhi , Cai Guo‐Rong , Zhang Hong‐Bo , Cao Donglin , Li Shao‐Zi
Published: December 2016

Action recognition is one of the hottest research topics in computer vision. Recent methods represent actions based on global or local video features. These approaches, however, lack semantic structure and may not provide a deep insight into the essence of an action. In this work, the authors argue that semantic clues, such as joint positions and part‐level motion clustering, help verify actions. To this end, a meta‐action descriptor for action recognition in RGBD video is proposed in this study. Specifically, two discrimination‐based strategies – dynamic and discriminative part clustering – are introduced to improve accuracy. Experiments conducted on the MSR Action 3D dataset show that the proposed method significantly outperforms the methods without joint position semantic.
On stability of nonlinear neutral functional differential equations
Authors: Anh Ngoc Pham Huu , Tran Thai Bao , Tinh Cao Thanh
Published: December 2016

We address the challenging problem of the exponential stability of nonlinear time-varying functional differential equations of neutral type. By a novel approach, we present explicit sufficient conditions for the exponential stability of nonlinear time-varying neutral functional differential equations. A discussion of the obtained results and illustrative examples are given.
Les micro-vis enfouies, l’ancrage osseux
universel
Authors: Chillès Daniel , Chillès Jean-Gabriel , Riemenschneider-Chillès Sylvia , Doustkam Amir-André
Published: December 2016

Introduction : Cet article rappelle comment utiliser les micro-vis enfouies
comme ancrage orthodontique et en montre les avantages. Matériels et méthodes :
Les protocoles de mise en place chirurgicale des vis et l’utilisation des
différentes connectiques sont expliqués en détail. La méthodologie clinique est développée
d’une manière didactique, elle est en outre illustrée par quelques cas cliniques
représentatifs. Résultats : L’intérêt de l’usage des micro-vis est
indéniable, tant au niveau matériel, anatomique et chirurgical, mécanique qu’au niveau du
confort et de la fiabilité. Son caractère universel est clairement démontré.
Contenir la correction des béances squelettiques. Comment améliorer la stabilité de nos résultats ?
Authors: Littlewood Simon J.
Published: December 2016

Introduction: La contention des béances squelettiques après traitement orthodontique relève du défi. S’il est possible d’identifier les facteurs étiologiques de la béance, alors un plan de traitement adapté puis un choix approprié de type de contention peuvent diminuer les risques de récidive. On sait aujourd’hui qu’il est instable de fermer les béances antérieures par égression des incisives. Le traitement orthodontique a généralement pour but de contrôler la position verticale des molaires maxillaires, mais également d’éliminer les facteurs étiologiques que sont les parafonctions en rééduquant la position de la langue. Les taux de récidive sont élevés, d’environ 20–30 %, l’approche chirurgicale offrant un peu plus de stabilité.Matériels et méthodes :Nous décrirons les diverses approches de la contention des béances permettant de restreindre l’éruption des dents postérieures tout en améliorant la position de la langue. Ces dispositifs de contention requièrent le plus souvent une excellente coopération du patient.Résultats :Il existe aujourd’hui un manque de preuves scientifiques pour affirmer que ces dispositifs sont performants. D’autres recherches sont nécessaires pour en confirmer l’efficacité.
Nano-hemostats and a Pilot Study of Their Use in a Large Animal Model of Major Vessel Hemorrhage in Endoscopic Skull Base Surgery
Authors: Murphy Jae , Vreugde Sarah , Psaltis Alkis , Wormald P. , Jukes Alistair
Published: December 2016

Nano-hemostats are synthetic amino acid chains that self-assemble into a scaffold under certain conditions. These have been shown to be effective in stopping bleeding in small animal models of hemorrhage. Proposed mechanisms for their effect are that they form a mesh analogous to the fibrin plug in native hemostasis and that they may potentiate both platelet activation and the coagulation cascade. These may potentially become valuable adjuncts to endoscopic skull base surgery where there is the potential for both major vessel injury and smaller perforator injury to eloquent areas where bipolar cautery may not be suitable. We present a summary of the clinical studies to date and a small pilot study of nano-hemostat in an endoscopic sheep model of major vessel hemorrhage to determine its efficacy in stopping bleeding in this potentially catastrophic complication.
How to catch red foxes red handed: identifying predation of freshwater turtles and nests
Authors: Dawson Stuart J. , Crawford Heather M. , Huston Robert M. , Adams Peter J. , Fleming Patricia A.
Published: December 2016

Context Predation is one of the key contributors to mortality in freshwater turtles. Confirming the identity of predators is an important step towards conservation management action. Throughout Australia, the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) is suspected to apply significant and unsustainable predation pressure to turtle populations, killing adults and depredating nests; however methods for confirming this are limited. Aims The present study used a range of methods to confirm predation of oblong turtle (Chelodina colliei) nests and adults by the introduced red fox. Methods First, depredated adult carapaces, and turtle egg-shell fragments from excavated nests were swabbed and analysed for trace DNA. Second, we used artificial turtle nests, monitored by camera traps, to analyse seasonal changes in the behaviour of foxes around sites where turtle nests are present, including over the nesting season. Last, we used scat analysis to identify the prevalence of turtle remains in fox diet. Key results Predominantly fox DNA was recovered from both adult carapaces and depredated eggs. In addition, camera traps recorded only foxes depredating artificial nests. Despite this evidence that foxes kill adults and excavated nests, we found that turtle remains were only a small part of the diet of foxes at this study site (hatchling or turtle egg shell were present in only 4% of 230 scats sampled). The diet of these foxes was largely anthropogenic-sourced foods, such as fruit (e.g. figs, grapes, melons; 81% of scats), sheep carrion (41%) and rodents (36%). Conclusions We conclude that DNA analysis, camera trapping and scat analysis are effective methods of identifying foxes as predators of adult turtle, and their nests. Furthermore, we found that anthropogenic foods (orchard crops, livestock or synanthropic species) may subsidise greater fox population size than might occur in their absence, thereby increasing potential pressure on these freshwater turtles. Implications Our findings give credence to the argument that foxes are effective predators of turtle adults and nests. In addition, the high proportion of anthropogenic food sources in the diet of foxes, and potential subsidisation, is an important consideration for land managers.
It’s not all about the creeks: protection of multiple habitats will improve biodiversity conservation in a eucalypt forest
Authors: Yeatman Georgina J. , Wayne Adrian F. , Mills Harriet R. , Prince Jane
Published: December 2016

Understanding patterns in the distribution and abundance of wildlife across the landscape can aid in identifying the relative importance of habitats for biodiversity conservation. We aimed to identify whether riparian habitats were more important than other areas in the landscape to small terrestrial vertebrates. The study site was surveyed using 450 pit traps distributed across riparian, midslope and ridge top habitat. Riparian sites had the greatest abundance of small vertebrates of the three habitats. During some months of the year, there was a significant difference in the composition of the faunal assemblage between habitats. Unsurprisingly, riparian habitats were particularly important for frog species and it was these species that accounted for the greater abundance in this habitat. Riparian habitat was less important for other taxonomic groups and the more floristically rich midslope and ridge habitats, which had a greater abundance of leaf litter, fallen logs and rock cover, were favoured by mammal and reptile species. The conservation of riparian sites, without the protection of other habitats, overlooks a substantial proportion of the biodiversity in the landscape. This study may help inform management decisions in the Upper Warren region and other similar forested landscapes, regarding the location and timing of fauna monitoring and the frequency of fuel reduction burns.
Invariant superoscillatory electromagnetic fields in 3D-space
Authors: Makris K G , Papazoglou D G , Tzortzakis S
Published: December 2016

We derive exact solutions of Maxwell’s equations based on superoscillatory superpositions of vectorial Bessel beams. These novel beams are diffraction-free and can support subwavelength features in their transverse electromagnetic fields, without the presence of any evanescent waves. These features can be propagated into the far field. Approximate solutions in closed form are also derived based on asymptotic expansions of Bessel functions for simple prescribed subwavelength patterns. The superoscillatory characteristics of both electric, magnetic field components (transverse and longitudinal), and the Poynting vector, as well as, the effect of nonparaxiality are systematically investigated.
Prevalence of HPV infection in racial–ethnic subgroups of head and neck cancer patients
Authors: Ragin Camille , Liu Jeffrey C. , Jones Gieira , Shoyele Olubunmi , Sowunmi Bukola , Kennett Rachel , Gibbs Denise , Blackman Elizabeth , Esan Michael , Brandwein Margaret S. , Devarajan Karthik , Bussu Francesco , Chernock Rebecca , Chien Chih-Yen , Cohen Marc A. , El-Mofty Samir , Suzuki Mikio , D’Souza Gypsyamber , Funchain Pauline , Eng Charis , Gollin Susanne M. , Hong Angela , Jung Yuh-S , Krüger Maximilian , Lewis James , Morbini Patrizia , Landolfo Santo , Rittà Massimo , Straetmans Jos , Szarka Krisztina , Tachezy Ruth , Worden Francis P. , Nelson Deborah , Gathere Samuel , Taioli Emanuela
Published: December 2016

The landscape of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in racial/ethnic subgroups of head and neck cancer (HNC) patients has not been evaluated carefully. In this study, a meta-analysis examined the prevalence of HPV in HNC patients of African ancestry. Additionally, a pooled analysis of subject-level data was also performed to investigate HPV prevalence and patterns of p16 (CDNK2A) expression amongst different racial groups. Eighteen publications (N = 798 Black HNC patients) were examined in the meta-analysis, and the pooled analysis included 29 datasets comprised of 3129 HNC patients of diverse racial/ethnic background. The meta-analysis revealed that the prevalence of HPV16 was higher among Blacks with oropharyngeal cancer than Blacks with non-oropharyngeal cancer. However, there was great heterogeneity observed among studies (Q test P < 0.0001). In the pooled analysis, after adjusting for each study, year of diagnosis, age, gender and smoking status, the prevalence of HPV16,18 in oropharyngeal cancer patients was highest in Whites (61.1%), followed by 58.0% in Blacks and 25.2% in Asians (P < 0.0001). There was no statistically significant difference in HPV16,18 prevalence in non-oropharyngeal cancer by race (P = 0.682). With regard to the pattern of HPV16,18 status and p16 expression, White patients had the highest proportion of HPV16,18+/p16+ oropharyngeal cancer (52.3%), while Asians and Blacks had significantly lower proportions (23.0 and 22.6%, respectively) [P < 0.0001]. Our findings suggest that the pattern of HPV16,18 status and p16 expression in oropharyngeal cancer appears to differ by race and this may contribute to survival disparities.
Explaining the Increase in Female Mayors: Gender-Segregated Employment and Pathways to Local Political Leadership
Authors: TSUJI Yuki
Published: December 2016

Internationally, Japan ranks very low in the number of women in political leadership roles. Since the 1990s, the number of women serving in the national and local legislative assemblies has increased, and since 2000, the number of women serving as governors or mayors has also gradually increased. In particular, the number of female mayors has grown significantly in recent years. This article attempts to clarify the reasons for the increase in female mayors by examining the careers of women elected since the early 21st century and four case studies that illuminate various pathways to power for female mayors. We suggest that Japan’s gender-segregated employment practices have inadvertently created a new pathway to local power for women, from housewife to civil society leaders, and ultimately to local politician. We consider issues such as supply and demand, and other background environmental factors that affect women’s candidacy within mayoral elections. Furthermore, through four case studies, we show that three of four women capitalized on their ‘outsider’ profiles in their mayoral elections through critiques of the previous mayors’ management. Moreover, all of the women made campaign promises on the expansion of care services and the realization of local fiscal responsibility.