bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pristine mangrove creek waters are a sink of nitrous oxide
Authors: Maher Damien T. , Sippo James Z. , Tait Douglas R. , Holloway Ceylena , Santos Isaac R.
Published: May 2016

Nitrous oxide (N2O) is an important greenhouse gas, but large uncertainties remain in global budgets. Mangroves are thought to be a source of N2O to the atmosphere in spite of the limited available data. Here we report high resolution time series observations in pristine Australian mangroves along a broad latitudinal gradient to assess the potential role of mangroves in global N2O budgets. Surprisingly, five out of six creeks were under-saturated in dissolved N2O, demonstrating mangrove creek waters were a sink for atmospheric N2O. Air-water flux estimates showed an uptake of 1.52 ± 0.17 μmol m−2 d−1, while an independent mass balance revealed an average sink of 1.05 ± 0.59 μmol m−2 d−1. If these results can be upscaled to the global mangrove area, the N2O sink (~2.0 × 108 mol yr−1) would offset ~6% of the estimated global riverine N2O source. Our observations contrast previous estimates based on soil fluxes or mangrove waters influenced by upstream freshwater inputs. We suggest that the lack of available nitrogen in pristine mangroves favours N2O consumption. Widespread and growing coastal eutrophication may change mangrove waters from a sink to a source of N2O to the atmosphere, representing a positive feedback to climate change.
IgA response and protection following nasal vaccination of chickens with Newcastle disease virus DNA vaccine nanoencapsulated with Ag@SiO2 hollow nanoparticles
Authors: Zhao Kai , Rong Guangyu , Hao Yan , Yu Lu , Kang Hong , Wang Xin , Wang Xiaohua , Jin Zheng , Ren Zhiyu , Li Zejun
Published: May 2016

Newcastle disease caused by ND virus (NDV) is a highly contagious disease of birds. Vaccine for effective protection of poultry animals from NDV infection is urgently needed. Mucosal immunity plays a very important role in the antiviral immune response. In this study, a NDV F gene-containing DNA vaccine encapsulated in Ag@SiO2 hollow nanoparticles (pFDNA-Ag@SiO2-NPs) with an average diameter of 500 nm were prepared to assess the mucosal immune response. These nanoparticles exhibited low cytotoxicity and did not destroy the bioactivity of plasmid DNA, which could be expressed in vitro. The plasmid DNA was sustainably released after an initial burst release. In vivo immunization showed that the intranasal immunization of chickens with pFDNA-Ag@SiO2-NPs induced high titers of serum antibody, significantly promoted lymphocyte proliferation and induced higher expression levels of IL-2 and IFN-γ in a dose-dependent manner. These results indicated that the Ag@SiO2 hollow nanoparticles could serve as an efficient and safe delivery carrier for NDV DNA vaccine to induce mucosal immunity. This study has provided promising results for the further development of mucosal vaccines encapsulated in inorganic nanoparticles.
Temporary-tattoo for long-term high fidelity biopotential recordings
Authors: Bareket Lilach , Inzelberg Lilah , Rand David , David-Pur Moshe , Rabinovich David , Brandes Barak , Hanein Yael
Published: May 2016

Electromyography is a non-invasive method widely used to map muscle activation. For decades, it was commonly accepted that dry metallic electrodes establish poor electrode-skin contact, making them impractical for skin electromyography applications. Gelled electrodes are therefore the standard in electromyography with their use confined, almost entirely, to laboratory settings. Here we present novel dry electrodes, exhibiting outstanding electromyography recording along with excellent user comfort. The electrodes were realized using screen-printing of carbon ink on a soft support. The conformity of the electrodes helps establish direct contact with the skin, making the use of a gel superfluous. Plasma polymerized 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene was used to enhance the impedance of the electrodes. Cyclic voltammetry measurements revealed an increase in electrode capacitance by a factor of up to 100 in wet conditions. Impedance measurements show a reduction factor of 10 in electrode impedance on human skin. The suitability of the electrodes for long-term electromyography recordings from the hand and from the face is demonstrated. The presented electrodes are ideally-suited for many applications, such as brain-machine interfacing, muscle diagnostics, post-injury rehabilitation, and gaming.
Factors influencing attempted and completed suicide in postnatal women: A population-based study in Taiwan
Authors: Weng Shu-Chuan , Chang Jung-Chen , Yeh Ming-Kung , Wang Shun-Mu , Chen Yi-Hua
Published: May 2016

The aims of study were to investigate risk factors associated with attempted and completed suicide. This nested case–control study was conducted using the medical and death data of nearly all pregnant women for the period 2002–2012 in Taiwan. A total of 139 cases of attempted suicide and 95 cases of completed suicide were identified; for each case, 10 controls were randomly selected and matched to the cases according to age and year of delivery. A conditional logistic regression model was used. The mean attempted and completed suicide rates were 9.91 and 6.86 per 100,000 women with live births, respectively. Never having married and postpartum depression also increased the risk of attempted suicide (OR = 2.06; 95% CI = 1.09–3.88 and OR = 2.51; 95% CI = 1.10–5.75, respectively) and completed suicide (OR = 20.27; 95% CI = 8.99–45.73 and OR = 21.72; 95% CI = 8.08–58.37, respectively). Other factors for attempted suicide included being widowed or divorced, and having a caesarean delivery or suicide history. Other factors for completed suicide included lower education level, low infant birth weight, and diagnosis of anxiety or mood disorder. These results suggest that people should appropriately assess potential risk factors and provide assistance for postnatal women to reduce the occurrence of suicide events.
Application of iridium(III) complex in label-free and non-enzymatic electrochemical detection of hydrogen peroxide based on a novel “on-off-on” switch platform
Authors: Miao Xiangmin , Yang Chao , Leung Chung-Hang , Ma Dik-Lung
Published: May 2016

We herein report a label-free and non-enzymatic electrochemical sensor for the highly sensitive detection of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) based on a novel “on-off-on” switch system. In our design, MB was used as an electron mediator to accelerate the electron transfer while AuNPs was used to amplify the electrochemical signal due to its excellent biocompatibility and good conductivity. The “switch-off” state was achieved by introducing the guanine-rich capture probe (CP) and an iridium complex onto the electrode surface to form a hydrophobic layer, which then hinders electron transfer. Upon addition of H2O2, fenton reaction occurs and produces OH• in the presence of Fe2+. The OH• cleaves the CP into DNA fragments, thus resulting in the release of CP and iridium complex from the sensing interface, recovering the electrochemical signal to generate a “switch-on” state. Based on this novel switch system, a detection limit as low as 3.2 pM can be achieved for H2O2 detection. Moreover, satisfactory results were obtained by using this method for the detection of H2O2 in sterilized milk. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first G-quadruplex-based electrochemical sensor using an iridium(III) complex.
Comparative study of serum zinc concentrations in benign and malignant prostate disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhao Jiang , Wu Qingjian , Hu Xiaoyan , Dong Xingyou , Wang Liang , Liu Qian , Long Zhou , Li Longkun
Published: May 2016

Many studies have investigated the relationship between serum zinc concentration and prostatic disease, but have shown inconsistent results. Hence, we performed a systematic literature review and meta-analysis to assess the correlation between serum zinc concentration and prostate disease. Systematic literature searches were conducted with PubMed, EMBASE, Science Direct/Elsevier, MEDLINE, CNKI and the Cochrane Library up to June 2015 for studies that involved the relationship between serum zinc concentration and prostate disease. Fourteen studies were identified from the databases. Our results illustrated that the serum zinc concentrations in prostate cancer patients were significantly lower than those in Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) patients and normal controls (SMD (95% CI), −0.94 [−1.57, −0.32]; −1.18 [−1.90, −0.45]). However, the serum zinc concentrations in BPH patients were significantly higher than those in normal controls (SMD (95% CI) 1.77 [0.15, 3.39]). The present study showed that different levels of serum zinc concentrations are correlated with different prostatic disease. Serum zinc concentration may be used as a tool for the diagnosis and screening of prostate disease. But, further studies with well-designed larger sample studies are needed in this field to further clarify the correlation between serum zinc concentration and prostate disease.
Correction: Corrigendum: Cysteinyl Leukotriene Receptor Antagonists Decrease Cancer Risk in Asthma Patients
Authors: Tsai Ming-Ju , Wu Ping-Hsun , Sheu Chau-Chyun , Hsu Ya-Ling , Chang Wei-An , Hung Jen-Yu , Yang Chih-Jen , Yang Yi-Hsin , Kuo Po-Lin , Huang Ming-Shyan
Published: May 2016

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 23979; Published online: 07 April 2016; Updated: 12 May 2016 The Acknowledgements section in this Article is incomplete: “The authors thank the help from the Statistical Analysis Laboratory, Department of Internal Medicine and the Statistical Analysis Laboratory, Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital.
Intermartensitic Transformation and Enhanced Exchange Bias in Pd (Pt) -doped Ni-Mn-Sn alloys
Authors: Dong S. Y. , Chen J. Y. , Han Z. D. , Fang Y. , Zhang L. , Zhang C. L. , Qian B. , Jiang X. F.
Published: May 2016

In this work, we studied the phase transitions and exchange bias of Ni50−xMn36Sn14Tx (T = Pd, Pt; x = 0, 1, 2, 3) alloys. An intermartensitic transition (IMT), not observed in Ni50Mn36Sn14 alloy, was induced by the proper application of negative chemical pressure by Pd(Pt) doping in Ni50−xMn36Sn14Tx (T = Pd, Pt) alloys. IMT weakened and was suppressed with the increase of applied field; it also disappeared with further increase of Pd(Pt) content (x = 3 for Pd and x = 2 for Pt). Another striking result is that exchange bias effect, ascribed to the percolating ferromagnetic domains coexisting with spin glass phase, is notably enhanced by nonmagnetic Pd(Pt) addition. The increase of unidirectional anisotropy by the addition of Pd(Pt) impurities with strong spin-orbit coupling was explained by Dzyaloshinsky-Moriya interactions in spin glass phase.
Calorie restriction regulates circadian clock gene expression through BMAL1 dependent and independent mechanisms
Authors: Patel Sonal A. , Velingkaar Nikkhil , Makwana Kuldeep , Chaudhari Amol , Kondratov Roman
Published: May 2016

Feeding behavior, metabolism and circadian clocks are interlinked. Calorie restriction (CR) is a feeding paradigm known to extend longevity. We found that CR significantly affected the rhythms in the expression of circadian clock genes in mice on the mRNA and protein levels, suggesting that CR reprograms the clocks both transcriptionally and post-transcriptionally. The effect of CR on gene expression was distinct from the effects of time-restricted feeding or fasting. Furthermore, CR affected the circadian output through up- or down-regulation of the expression of several clock-controlled transcriptional factors and the longevity candidate genes. CR-dependent effects on some clock gene expression were impaired in the liver of mice deficient for BMAL1, suggesting importance of this transcriptional factor for the transcriptional reprogramming of the clock, however, BMAL1- independent mechanisms also exist. We propose that CR recruits biological clocks as a natural mechanism of metabolic optimization under conditions of limited energy resources.
Tracking bacterial virulence: global modulators as indicators
Authors: Prieto Alejandro , Urcola Imanol , Blanco Jorge , Dahbi Ghizlane , Muniesa Maite , Quirós Pablo , Falgenhauer Linda , Chakraborty Trinad , Hüttener Mário , Juárez Antonio
Published: May 2016

The genomes of Gram-negative bacteria encode paralogues and/or orthologues of global modulators. The nucleoid-associated H-NS and Hha proteins are an example: several enterobacteria such as Escherichia coli or Salmonella harbor H-NS, Hha and their corresponding paralogues, StpA and YdgT proteins, respectively. Remarkably, the genome of the pathogenic enteroaggregative E. coli strain 042 encodes, in addition to the hha and ydgT genes, two additional hha paralogues, hha2 and hha3. We show in this report that there exists a strong correlation between the presence of these paralogues and the virulence phenotype of several E. coli strains. hha2 and hha3 predominate in some groups of intestinal pathogenic E. coli strains (enteroaggregative and shiga toxin-producing isolates), as well as in the widely distributed extraintestinal ST131 isolates. Because of the relationship between the presence of hha2/hha3 and some virulence factors, we have been able to provide evidence for Hha2/Hha3 modulating the expression of the antigen 43 pathogenic determinants. We show that tracking global modulators or their paralogues/orthologues can be a new strategy to identify bacterial pathogenic clones and propose PCR amplification of hha2 and hha3 as a virulence indicator in environmental and clinical E. coli isolates.
In vitro and in vivo efficacy, toxicity, bio-distribution and resistance selection of a novel antibacterial drug candidate
Authors: Brunetti Jlenia , Falciani Chiara , Roscia Giulia , Pollini Simona , Bindi Stefano , Scali Silvia , Arrieta Unai Cossio , Gómez-Vallejo Vanessa , Quercini Leila , Ibba Elisa , Prato Marco , Rossolini Gian Maria , Llop Jordi , Bracci Luisa , Pini Alessandro
Published: May 2016

A synthetic antimicrobial peptide was identified as a possible candidate for the development of a new antibacterial drug. The peptide, SET-M33L, showed a MIC90 below 1.5 μM and 3 μM for Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae, respectively. In in vivo models of P. aeruginosa infections, the peptide and its pegylated form (SET-M33L-PEG) enabled a survival percentage of 60–80% in sepsis and lung infections when injected twice i.v. at 5 mg/Kg, and completely healed skin infections when administered topically. Plasma clearance showed different kinetics for SET-M33L and SET-M33L-PEG, the latter having greater persistence two hours after injection. Bio-distribution in organs did not show significant differences in uptake of the two peptides. Unlike colistin, SET-M33L did not select resistant mutants in bacterial cultures and also proved non genotoxic and to have much lower in vivo toxicity than antimicrobial peptides already used in clinical practice. The characterizations reported here are part of a preclinical development plan that should bring the molecule to clinical trial in the next few years.
Label-free fluorescence detection of melamine with a truncated aptamer
Authors: Gu Chunmei , Xiang Yu , Guo Hongli , Shi Hanchang
Published: May 2016

The 88 nt melamine aptamer Rd29C33 was truncated to a 34 nt Rd29C33-T7, which is suitable for the label-free detection of melamine.
Enantioselective intermolecular cross Rauhut–Currier reactions of activated alkenes with acrolein
Authors: Zhou Wei , Chen Peng , Tao Mengna , Su Xiao , Zhao Qingjie , Zhang Junliang
Published: May 2016

A highly enantioselective intermolecular cross Rauhut–Currier reaction of acrolein with 3-acyl acrylates and 2-ene-1,4-diones is enabled by using a newly designed Peng–Phos. This method is scalable and highly enantioselective (up to 96% ee).
Governing metal–organic frameworks towards high stability
Authors: Li Na , Xu Jian , Feng Rui , Hu Tong-Liang , Bu Xian-He
Published: May 2016

Stability of MOFs is a crucial issue for their practical applications, which might be improved by varying their chemical composition and/or structurally tuning them. Several strategies for enhancing the stability of MOFs were provided.
Quinonediimines as redox-active organocatalysts for oxidative coupling of aryl- and alkenylmagnesium compounds under molecular oxygen
Authors: Amaya Toru , Suzuki Riyo , Hirao Toshikazu
Published: May 2016

N,N′-Diphenyl-p-benzoquinonediimine worked as a redox-active organocatalyst for the oxidative homo-coupling of aryl- and alkenylmagnesium compounds under molecular oxygen.
A metal sulfide photocatalyst composed of ubiquitous elements for solar hydrogen production
Authors: Shiga Y. , Umezawa N. , Srinivasan N. , Koyasu S. , Sakai E. , Miyauchi M.
Published: May 2016

A visible-light-sensitive tin sulfide photocatalyst was designed based on a ubiquitous element strategy and density functional theory (DFT) calculations.
Photocatalysis in organic and polymer synthesis
Authors: Corrigan Nathaniel , Shanmugam Sivaprakash , Xu Jiangtao , Boyer Cyrille
Published: May 2016

This review, with over 600 references, summarizes the recent applications of photoredox catalysis for organic transformation and polymer synthesis.
Thiazoyl phosphines. Design, reactivity, and complexation
Authors: Zablocka Maria , Oshovsky Gennady , Duhayon Carine , Ladeira Sonia , Caminade Anne-Marie , Mignani Serge , Majoral Jean-Pierre
Published: May 2016

Thiazoylphosphines have been prepared through regioselective structural modifications as well as some of their Ru and Au complexes.
Electrochemical deposition of highly-conducting metal dithiolene films
Authors: Allwright Emily , Silber Georg , Crain Jason , Matsushita Michio M. , Awaga Kunio , Robertson Neil
Published: May 2016

Electrochemical deposition has been used to prepare a thin film of neutral 4′,4-(3-alkyl)-thiophene-5′,5-hydogen-nickel and copper dithiolenes (Ni–C2, Cu–C2).
Assembly of ultrasmall Cu3N nanoparticles into three-dimensional porous monolithic aerogels
Authors: Deshmukh Rupali , Tervoort Elena , Käch Julian , Rechberger Felix , Niederberger Markus
Published: May 2016

We present the assembly of ultrasmall Cu3N nanoparticles into aerogels with a high surface area and porosity by thermally destabilizing colloidal nanoparticles.
Enhanced photoluminescence and phosphorescence properties of green phosphor Zn2GeO4:Mn2+via composition modification with GeO2and MgF2
Authors: Pan Yuexiao , Li Li , Lu Jing , Pang Ran , Wan Li , Huang Shaoming
Published: May 2016

The photoluminescence and the phosphorescence of Zn2GeO4:Mn2+has been dramatically improved through composition modification with GeO2and MgF2.
Hydrogenation of oxalic acid using light-assisted water electrolysis for the production of an alcoholic compound
Authors: Kitano Sho , Yamauchi Miho , Hata Shinichi , Watanabe Ryota , Sadakiyo Masaaki
Published: May 2016

We demonstrate the production of glycolic acid, an industrially important alcoholic compound, via the electrochemical reduction of oxalic acid, which is procurable from biomass, and electro-oxidation of water with the help of renewable light energy for the first time.
Optofluidic chlorophyll lasers
Authors: Chen Yu-Cheng , Chen Qiushu , Fan Xudong
Published: May 2016

Dual band lasing from an optofluidic chlorophyll laser
The unique functional role of the C–H⋯S hydrogen bond in the substrate specificity and enzyme catalysis of type 1 methionine aminopeptidase
Authors: Reddi Ravikumar , Singarapu Kiran Kumar , Pal Debnath , Addlagatta Anthony
Published: May 2016

Unique C–H⋯S hydrogen bonding interactions allow nature to attain recognition specificity between molecular interfaces where there is no apparent scope for classical hydrogen bonding or polar interactions.
Functionalisation of MWCNTs with poly(lauryl acrylate) polymerised by Cu(0)-mediated and RAFT methods
Authors: Gupta Jaipal , Keddie Daniel J. , Wan Chaoying , Haddleton David M. , McNally Tony
Published: May 2016

We report the thermal and thermo-mechanical stability of poly(lauryl acrylate) P[LA] synthesised using RAFT and Cu(0)-mediated polymerisation methods and their interactions with multi-walled carbon nanotubes.
Large-area high quality MoS2monolayers grown by sulfur vapor counter flow diffusion
Authors: Chen Bo , Yu Qingxuan , Yang Qiuyun , Bao Pengfei , Zhang Wenlong , Lou Liren , Zhu Wei , Wang Guanzhong
Published: May 2016

Sulfur vapor counter flow diffusion moderates MoO3sulfurization and benefits monolayer MoS2growth.
Tandem approach for the synthesis of 3-sulfenylimidazo[1,5-a]pyridines from dithioesters
Authors: Ramesha Ajjahalli. B. , Pavan Kumar Chottanahalli. S. , Sandhya Nagarakere. C. , Kumara Manikyanahalli. N. , Mantelingu Kempegowda , Rangappa Kanchugarakoppal. S.
Published: May 2016

Iodine-mediated synthesis of 3-sulfenylimidazo[1,5-a]pyridinesviaC–H functionalization has been achieved using dithioesters, 2-methylaminopyridines and sulfonyl hydrazides.
Facile synthesis of a superhydrophobic and colossal broadband antireflective nanoporous GaSb surface
Authors: Datta Debi Prasad , Garg Sandeep K. , Thakur Indrani , Satpati Biswarup , Sahoo Pratap K. , Kanjilal Dinakar , Som Tapobrata
Published: May 2016

Ion implantation creates a superhydrophobic and colossal antireflective nanoporous GaSb.
Conversion of bis(2-hydroxyethylene terephthalate) into 1,4-cyclohexanedimethanol by selective hydrogenation using RuPtSn/Al2O3
Authors: Hou Danfeng , Xin Jiayu , Lu Xingmei , Guo Xiaonan , Dong Huixian , Ren Baozeng , Zhang Suojiang
Published: May 2016

One-pot conversion of bis(2-hydroxyethylene terephthalate) derived from waste PET into 1,4-cyclohexanedimethano with high yield was achieved by trimetallic RuPtSn/Al2O3.
Rhodium-catalyzed cycloaddition of carbonyl ylides for the synthesis of spiro[furo[2,3-a]xanthene-2,3′-indolin]-2′-one scaffolds
Authors: Reddy B. V. Subba , Reddy E. Pravardhan , Sridhar B. , Rao Y. Jayaprakash
Published: May 2016

Rh(ii)-catalyzed cycloaddition of 3-diazooxindoles with 2-methyl-2-(4-methylpent-3-en-1-yl)-2H-chromene-3-carbaldehydes has been developed to produce tetrahydro-3H,4H-spiro[furo[2,3-a]xanthene-2,3′-indolin]-2′-ones in good yields.
Bounded amplification of diffusioosmosis utilizing hydrophobicity
Authors: Hoshyargar Vahid , Sadeghi Arman , Ashrafizadeh Seyed Nezameddin
Published: May 2016

It is shown that surface hydrophobicity not only is a tool to increase the flow rate, but also may be utilized as a mechanism for the control of diffusioosmotic flow.
Formation, characterization and release kinetics of chitosan/γ-PGA encapsulated nisin nanoparticles
Authors: Wu Chunhua , Wu Tiantian , Fang Zhongxiang , Zheng Jiawen , Xu Shao , Chen Shiguo , Hu Yaqin , Ye Xingqian
Published: May 2016

To improve its efficiency, nisin was encapsulated in a γ-PGA and chitosan nanoparticles using self-assembly method. The release of nisin from the nanoparticles exhibited a pH-dependent pattern, and the release mechanism was an anomalous behavior.
Simple and facile preparation of silver–polydopamine (Ag–PDA) core–shell nanoparticles for selective electrochemical detection of cysteine
Authors: Thota Raju , Ganesh V.
Published: May 2016

A simple one-step method for the preparation of silver–polydopamine (Ag–PDA) core–shell nanoparticles is proposed and its application for non-enzymatic electrochemical detection of cysteine is demonstrated.
Cation templated improved synthesis of pillar[6]arenes
Authors: Da Pian M. , De Lucchi O. , Strukul G. , Fabris F. , Scarso A.
Published: May 2016

Improved high yield syntheses of the larger pillar[6]arenes (P[6]) bearing different alkoxy substituents through cation templated syntheses using a series of small organic and organometallic cations is reported.
Cascade donor–acceptor organic ferroelectric layers, between graphene sheets, for solar cell applications
Authors: Wierzbowska Małgorzata , Wawrzyniak-Adamczewska Małgorzata
Published: May 2016

Organic ferroelectric layers sandwiched between the graphene sheets are presented as a model of the solar cell.
Large scale combustion synthesis of glass-γ-Fe2O3 double shell composite hollow microspheres with tunable magnetic property
Authors: Liao Bin , An Zhenguo , Zhang Jingjie
Published: May 2016

Novel fast dehydration–combustion route to glass-γ-Fe2O3 double shell composite hollow microspheres with low density and tunable magnetic properties.
Base-mediated regiospecific cascade synthesis of N-(2-pyridyl)pyrroles from N-propargylic β-enaminones
Authors: Shen Jinhai , Yang Xifa , Wang Fuyuan , Wang Yue , Cheng Guolin , Cui Xiuling
Published: May 2016

Two birds with one stone: two classical heterocycles, pyrrole and pyridine, were simultaneously installed from one acyclic enaminone precursor for the preparation of N-(2-pyridyl)pyrroles.
δ-MnO2/holey graphene hybrid fiber for all-solid-state supercapacitor
Authors: Zhang Jinyang , Yang Xiaofan , He Yibo , Bai Yonglong , Kang Liping , Xu Hua , Shi Feng , Lei Zhibin , Liu Zong-Huai
Published: May 2016

δ-MnO2/holey graphene all-solid-state fiber-supercapacitor with good flexibility and enhanced capacitive performance has been developed.
Platinum nanoparticles on reduced graphene oxide as peroxidase mimetics for the colorimetric detection of specific DNA sequence
Authors: Chau Li Yin , He Qijin , Qin Ailin , Yip Shea Ping , Lee Thomas M. H.
Published: May 2016

We report the first demonstration of platinum nanoparticles–reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites as peroxidase mimetics for colorimetric DNA detection.
Modulation of sensitivity to mechanical stimulus in mechanofluorochromic properties by altering substituent positions in solid-state emissive diiodo boron diiminates
Authors: Yamaguchi Madoka , Ito Shunichiro , Hirose Amane , Tanaka Kazuo , Chujo Yoshiki
Published: May 2016

This manuscript describes modulation of the sensitivity to mechanical forces in diiodo boron diiminates by altering the substituent position of iodine groups.
An overview of multifunctional epoxy nanocomposites
Authors: Gu Hongbo , Ma Chao , Gu Junwei , Guo Jiang , Yan Xingru , Huang Jiangnan , Zhang Qiuyu , Guo Zhanhu
Published: May 2016

The state-of-art multifunctions of epoxy nanocomposites including magnetization, electrical and thermal conductivity and flame retardancy are critically reviewed.
Congenital microcornea-cataract syndrome-causing mutation X253R increases βB1-crystallin hydrophobicity to promote aggregate formation
Authors: Leng Xiao-Yao , Li Hai-Yun , Wang Jing , Qi Liang-Bo , Xi Yi-Bo , Yan Yong-Bin
Published: May 2016

The high solubility and lifelong stability of crystallins are crucial to the maintenance of lens transparency and optical properties. Numerous crystallin mutations have been linked to congenital cataract, which is one of the leading causes of newborn blindness. Besides cataract, several crystallin mutations have also been linked to syndromes such as congenital microcornea-cataract syndrome (CMCC). However, the molecular mechanism of CMCC caused by crystallin mutations remains elusive. In the present study, we investigated the mechanism of CMCC caused by the X253R mutation in βB1-crystallin. The exogenously expressed X253R proteins were prone to form p62-negative aggregates in HeLa cells, strongly inhibited cell proliferation and induced cell apoptosis. The intracellular X253R aggregates could be successfully redissolved by lanosterol but not cholesterol. The extra 26 residues at the C-terminus of βB1-crystallin introduced by the X253R mutation had little impact on βB1-crystallin structure and stability, but increased βB1-crystallin hydrophobicity and decreased its solubility. Interestingly, the X253R mutant fully abolished the aggregatory propensity of βB1- and βA3/βB1-crystallins at high temperatures, suggesting that X253R was an aggregation-inhibition mutation of β-crystallin homomers and heteromers in dilute solutions. Our results suggest that an increase in hydrophobicity and a decrease in solubility might be responsible for cataractogenesis induced by the X253R mutation, while the cytotoxic effect of X253R aggregates might contribute to the defects in ocular development. Our results also highlight that, at least in some cases, the aggregatory propensity in dilute solutions could not fully mimic the behaviours of mutated proteins in the crowded cytoplasm of the cells.
A new joint eigenvalue distribution of finite random matrix for cognitive radio networks
Authors: Zhang Wensheng , Sun Jian , Xiong Hailiang , Chen Di
Published: May 2016

A new joint eigenvalue distribution (JED) based on dual extreme eigenvalues of finite random matrix is proposed in this study. Different from conventional JED based on K(K ≥ 2) variables, only two variables are included in the proposed formulation. The upper and lower bounds of the new JED are determined. The new JED provides a simple and efficient way to deduce the distributions of key characteristics of finite random matrix, such as the extreme (largest and smallest) eigenvalues, standard condition number, and scaled largest eigenvalue. Moreover, a novel cooperative spectrum sensing (CSS) scheme based on the new JED is proposed for cognitive radio networks. The simulation results verify the proposed JED and the proposed CSS scheme can improve sensing performance.
Large aperture Fizeau interferometer commissioning and preliminary measurements of a long x-ray mirror at European X-ray Free Electron Laser
Authors: Vannoni M. , Freijo Martín I.
Published: May 2016

The European XFEL (X-ray Free Electron Laser) is a large facility under construction in Hamburg, Germany. It will provide a transversally fully coherent x-ray radiation with outstanding characteristics: high repetition rate (up to 2700 pulses with a 0.6 ms long pulse train at 10 Hz), short wavelength (down to 0.05 nm), short pulse (in the femtoseconds scale), and high average brilliance (1.6 ⋅ 1025 (photons s−1 mm−2 mrad−2)/0.1% bandwidth). The beam has very high pulse energy; therefore, it has to be spread out on a relatively long mirror (about 1 m). Due to the very short wavelength, the mirrors need to have a high quality surface on their entire length, and this is considered very challenging even with the most advanced polishing methods. In order to measure the mirrors and to characterize their interaction with the mechanical mount, we equipped a metrology laboratory with a large aperture Fizeau interferometer. The system is a classical 100 mm diameter commercial Fizeau, with an additional expander providing a 300 mm diameter beam. Despite the commercial nature of the system, special care has been taken in the polishing of the reference flats and in the expander quality. We report the first commissioning of the instrument, its calibration, and performance characterization, together with some preliminary results with the measurement of a 950 mm silicon substrate. The intended application is to characterize the final XFEL mirrors with nanometer accuracy.
Work function tuning at Au-HfO2 interfaces using organophosphonate monolayers
Authors: Kwan Matthew , Cardinal Thomas , Mutin P. Hubert , Ramanath Ganpati
Published: May 2016

We show that introducing organophosphonate nanomolecular monolayers (NMLs) at Au-HfO2 interfaces shift the effective work function by 0.2 eV ≥ ΔΦeff ≥ −0.6 eV, due to NML body and bonding dipoles. Electron spectroscopy of NML-Au, NML-HfO2, and Au-NML-HfO2 structures indicate that the Au-NML bond strength is the major factor. Au-NML covalent bonding yields ΔΦeff ∼ − 0.2 eV, while weak bonding yields ΔΦeff ∼ 0.6 eV. In contrast, NMLs on HfO2 decrease Φeff by ∼0.4 eV due to competing contributions from NML-HfO2 bonding strength and NML orientation. These findings are relevant for nanomolecularly tailoring the electronic properties of metal–ceramic interfaces for applications.
Theoretical investigation on the magnetic and electric properties in TbSb compound through an anisotropic microscopic model
Authors: von Ranke P. J. , Ribeiro P. O. , Carvalho A. Magnus G. , Alho B. P. , Alvarenga T. S. T. , Nobrega E. P. , Caldas A. , de Sousa V. S. R. , Lopes P. H. O. , de Oliveira N. A.
Published: May 2016

We report the strong correlations between the magnetoresistivity and the magnetic entropy change in the cubic antiferromagnetic TbSb compound. The theoretical investigation was performed through a microscopic model which takes into account the crystalline electrical field anisotropy, exchange coupling interactions between the up and down magnetic sublattices, and the Zeeman interaction. The easy magnetization directions changes from ⟨001⟩ to ⟨110⟩ and then to ⟨111⟩ observed experimentally was successfully theoretically described. Also, the calculation of the temperature dependence of electric resistivity showed good agreement with the experimental data. Theoretical predictions were calculated for the temperature dependence of the magnetic entropy and resistivity changes upon magnetic field variation. Besides, the difference in the spin up and down sublattices resistivity was investigated.
Pulse propagation and optically controllable switch in coupled semiconductor-double-quantum-dot nanostructures
Authors: Hamedi H. R.
Published: May 2016

The problem of pulse propagation is theoretically investigated through a coupled semiconductor-double-quantum-dot (SDQD) nanostructure. Solving the coupled Maxwell–Bloch equations for the SDQD and field simultaneously, the dynamic control of pulse propagation through the medium is numerically explored. It is found that when all the control fields are in exact resonance with their corresponding transitions, a weak Gaussian-shaped probe pulse is transmitted through the medium nearly without any significant absorption and losses so that it can preserve its shape for quite a long propagation distance. In contrast, when one of the control fields is not in resonance with its corresponding transition, the probe pulse will be absorbed by the QD medium after a short distance. Then we consider the probe pulses with higher intensities. It is realized that an intense probe pulse experiences remarkable absorption and broadening during propagation. Finally, we demonstrate that this SDQD system can be employed as an optically controllable switch for the wave propagation to transit from an absorbing phase to a perfect transparency for the probe field. The required time for such switch is also estimated through realistic values.
Symmetry properties of n-doped (Cd,Mn)Te quantum well photoluminescence spectra: An exemplary evidence for anisotropy-induced valence-band mixing
Authors: Koudinov A. V. , Kehl C. , Astakhov G. , Geurts J. , Wojtowicz T. , Karczewski G.
Published: May 2016

The symmetry properties of photoluminescence spectra of an n-doped (001)-Cd0.99Mn0.01Te quantum well provide a simple and intuitive demonstration of the valence-band mixing induced by spontaneous in-plane anisotropy of the sample. The spectra were taken with linear-polarization resolution in an in-plane external magnetic field. They consisted of several features which are characteristic for a two-dimensional electron gas. Because the quantum well layer contained “magnetic” ions of Mn, the spectra showed pronounced polarization-dependent modifications induced by the magnetic field. With the field applied, a 90° rotation of the sample about the surface normal axis resulted in a clearly different spectrum, meaning that the nominally equivalent [110] and [11¯0] in-plane directions in the sample are not equivalent in fact. But, remarkably, the additional 90° rotations of both the polarizer and the analyzer restored the initial spectrum. This combined invariance regarding simultaneous 90° rotation of the sample and reversal of the polarization configuration was known earlier for spin-flip Raman spectra only. Our present observations are interpreted in terms of an intermixing of valence subbands leading to a pseudoisotropic g-factor of the ground-state holes.
A high-performance broadband terahertz absorber based on sawtooth-shape doped-silicon
Authors: Du Liang-Hui , Li Jiang , Zhai Zhao-Hui , Meng Kun , Liu Qiao , Zhong Sen-Cheng , Zhou Ping-Wei , Zhu Li-Guo , Li Ze-Ren , Peng Qi-Xian
Published: May 2016

Perfect absorbers with broadband absorption of terahertz (THz) radiation are promising for applications in imaging and detection to enhance the contrast and sensitivity, as well as to provide concealment. Different from previous two-dimensional structures, here we put forward a new type of THz absorber based on sawtooth-shape doped-silicon with near-unit absorption across a broad spectral range. Absorbance over 99% is observed numerically from 1.2 to 3 THz by optimizing the geometric parameters of the sawtooth structure. Our absorbers can operate over a wide range of incident angle and are polarization insensitive. The underlying mechanisms due to the combination of an air-cavity mode and mode-matching resonance on the air-sawtooth interface are analyzed in terms of the field patterns and electromagnetic power loss features.
Methane emissions differ between sheep offered a conventional diploid, a high-sugar diploid or a tetraploid perennial ryegrass cultivar at two allowances at three times of the year
Authors: Jonker A. , Molano G. , Sandoval E. , Taylor P. S. , Antwi C. , Olinga S. , Cosgrove G. P.
Published: May 2016

Elevated water-soluble carbohydrate (WSC) concentration in the diet may affect rumen fermentation and consequently reduce methane (CH4) emissions. The objective of the present study was to determine CH4 emissions from male sheep (8 per treatment) in respiration chambers for 48 h and fed either a conventional diploid (CRG), a high-sugar diploid (HSG) or a tetraploid (TRG) perennial ryegrass cultivar, each offered at 0.7 or 1.0 kg dry matter (DM)/day during periods in early spring 2013 (P1), early autumn 2014 (P2) and late spring 2014 (P3). There was a significant (P < 0.001) interaction between cultivar and period for CH4 yield (g/kg DM intake). In P1 yield was 9% lower (P = 0.007) for sheep fed HSG than for sheep fed CRG or TRG, in P2 yield was 16% lower (P < 0.001) for sheep fed TRG than that for sheep fed CRG or HSG, and in P3 yield was 15% lower (P < 0.001) for sheep fed TRG than that for sheep fed CRG, with HSG-fed sheep being intermediate and not significantly different from either CRG or TRG. Despite there being a cultivar × period interaction, overall, CH4 yield was lower for sheep fed HSG or TRG than for sheep fed CRG (P < 0.001). There were no cultivar × level of feed offer interactions and, overall, yield of CH4 was 9% higher (P = 0.003) for sheep offered 0.7 than for sheep offered 1.0 kg DM/day. In each period, one or other of the high-WSC diploid (HSG) or tetraploid cultivars (TRG) gave lower CH4 yields than did the control diploid (CRG), suggesting that CH4 yield is reduced by characteristics of these cultivars. However, the effect was not consistently associated with either cultivar and could not be attributed to higher forage water-soluble carbohydrate concentrations.
PDK1–Akt pathway regulates radial neuronal migration and microtubules in the developing mouse neocortex
Authors: Itoh Yasuhiro , Higuchi Maiko , Oishi Koji , Kishi Yusuke , Okazaki Tomohiko , Sakai Hiroshi , Miyata Takaki , Nakajima Kazunori , Gotoh Yukiko
Published: May 2016

Significance

In the developing mammalian neocortex, neurons migrate a long distance from their birthplace to the positions where they form appropriate layers and networks, and dysregulation of this process has been implicated in brain malformation and neurological diseases. Given the fine correlation between temporal order of various sequentially generated neuronal cell types and their spatial distribution, migration speed needs to be tightly controlled to achieve correct neocortical layering, although the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Here we show that the serine/threonine kinase Akt and its activator phosphoinositide-dependent protein kinase 1 (PDK1) regulate the speed of locomotion of mouse neocortical neurons through the cortical plate. Our data suggest that the PDK1–Akt axis regulates microtubule organization, in part by regulating the cytoplasmic dynein/dynactin complex, in migrating neurons.
Psychosine-triggered endomitosis is modulated by membrane sphingolipids through regulation of phosphoinositide 4,5-bisphosphate production at the cleavage furrow
Authors: Watanabe Hiroshi , Okahara Kyohei , Naito-Matsui Yuko , Abe Mitsuhiro , Go Shinji , Inokuchi Jinichi , Okazaki Toshiro , Kobayashi Toshihide , Kozutsumi Yasunori , Oka Shogo , Takematsu Hiromu
Published: May 2016

Endomitosis is a special type of mitosis in which only cytokinesis—the final step of the cell division cycle—is defective, resulting in polyploid cells. Although endomitosis is biologically important, its regulatory aspects remain elusive. Psychosine, a lysogalactosylceramide, prevents proper cytokinesis when supplemented to proliferating cells. Cytokinetic inhibition by psychosine does not inhibit genome duplication. Consequently cells undergo multiple rounds of endomitotic cell cycles, resulting in the formation of giant multiploid cells. Here we successfully quantified psychosine-triggered multiploid cell formation, showing that membrane sphingolipids ratios modulate psychosine-triggered polyploidy in Namalwa cells. Among enzymes that experimentally remodel cellular sphingolipids, overexpression of glucosylceramide synthase to biosynthesize glycosylsphingolipids (GSLs) and neutral sphingomyelinase 2 to hydrolyze sphingomyelin (SM) additively enhanced psychosine-triggered multiploidy; almost all of the cells became polyploid. In the presence of psychosine, Namalwa cells showed attenuated cell surface SM clustering and suppression of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate production at the cleavage furrow, both important processes for cytokinesis. Depending on the sphingolipid balance between GSLs and SM, Namalwa cells could be effectively converted to viable multiploid cells with psychosine.
Engineering therapeutic protein disaggregases
Authors: Shorter James
Published: May 2016

Therapeutic agents are urgently required to cure several common and fatal neurodegenerative disorders caused by protein misfolding and aggregation, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson’s disease (PD), and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Protein disaggregases that reverse protein misfolding and restore proteins to native structure, function, and localization could mitigate neurodegeneration by simultaneously reversing 1) any toxic gain of function of the misfolded form and 2) any loss of function due to misfolding. Potentiated variants of Hsp104, a hexameric AAA+ ATPase and protein disaggregase from yeast, have been engineered to robustly disaggregate misfolded proteins connected with ALS (e.g., TDP-43 and FUS) and PD (e.g., α-synuclein). However, Hsp104 has no metazoan homologue. Metazoa possess protein disaggregase systems distinct from Hsp104, including Hsp110, Hsp70, and Hsp40, as well as HtrA1, which might be harnessed to reverse deleterious protein misfolding. Nevertheless, vicissitudes of aging, environment, or genetics conspire to negate these disaggregase systems in neurodegenerative disease. Thus, engineering potentiated human protein disaggregases or isolating small-molecule enhancers of their activity could yield transformative therapeutics for ALS, PD, and AD.
Using Lean to Advance Quality Improvement Research
Authors: Blackmore Christopher Craig , Williams Barbara L. , Ching Joan M. , Chafetz Lynne A. , Kaplan Gary S.
Published: May 2016

Introduction:

Quality improvement research skills are not commonplace among quality improvement practitioners, and research on the effectiveness of quality improvement has not always kept pace with improvement innovation. However, the Lean tools applied to quality improvement should be equally relevant to the advancement of quality improvement research.

Methods:

We applied the Lean methods to develop a simplified quality improvement publication pathway enabling a small research methodology group to increase quality improvement research throughout the institution. The key innovations of the pathway are horizontal integration of the quality improvement research methods group across the institution, implementation of a Lean quality improvement research pathway, and application of a just-in-time quality improvement research toolkit.

Results:

This work provides a road map and tools for the acceleration of quality improvement research. At our institution, the Lean quality improvement research approach was associated with statistically significant increases in the number (annual mean increase from 3.0 to 8.5, p = .03) and breadth of published quality improvement research articles, and in the number of quality improvement research projects currently in process.

Discussion:

Application of Lean methods to the quality improvement research process can aid in increasing publication of quality improvement articles from across the institution.
Transitional Care in the Patient-Centered Medical Home: Lessons in Adaptation
Authors: Hirschman Karen B. , Shaid Elizabeth , Bixby M. Brian , Badolato David J. , Barg Ronald , Byrnes Mary Beth , Byrnes Richard , Streletz Deborah , Stretton Jean , Naylor Mary D.
Published: May 2016

Older adults with multiple chronic conditions (MCCs) typically have risk factors (e.g., functional deficits, social barriers) that complicate the management of their healthcare, often with devastating human and economic consequences. Finding new ways to provide patient-centered care to community-based older adults with MCCs is essential. Two current models of care, the Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) and the Transitional Care Model (TCM), have demonstrated improvements in the outcomes of high-risk older adults at different points on the chronic illness trajectory. However, neither care management approach has optimally engaged vulnerable patients to address needs throughout both acute and more stable transitions in health. In this article, we summarize the development of the PCMH plus TCM (hereafter, PCMH + TCM), an innovative approach to care, and the experience of the providers involved in testing the feasibility of implementing the PCMH + TCM. Using content analyses to code open-ended survey responses from transitional care nurses and PCMH clinical leaders', two major themes, collaboration and communication, emerged as critical to the process of implementing the PCMH + TCM. Barriers and facilitators to implementing the PCMH + TCM are presented. Findings support that the TCM can be adapted and integrated into the PCMH with meticulous planning and implementation.