bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating Associative Learning Effects in Patients with Prodromal Alzheimer’s Disease Using the Temporal Context Model
Authors: Quenon Lisa , de Xivry Jean-Jacques Orban , Hanseeuw Bernard , Ivanoiu Adrian
Published: September 2015

The purpose of this study was to investigate associative learning effects in patients with prodromal Alzheimer’s disease (prAD) by referring to the Temporal Context Model (TCM; Howard, Jing, Rao, Provyn, & Datey, 2009), in an attempt to enhance the understanding of their associative memory impairment. TCM explains fundamental effects described in classical free-recall tasks and cued-recall tasks involving overlapping word pairs (e.g., A-B, B-C), namely (1) the contiguity effect, which is the tendency to successively recall nearby items in a list, and (2) the observation of backward (i.e., B-A) and transitive associations (i.e., A-C) between items. In TCM, these effects are hypothesized to rely on contextual representation, binding and retrieval processes, which supposedly depend on hippocampal and parahippocampal regions. As these regions are affected in prAD, the current study investigated whether prAD patients would show reduced proportions of backward and transitive associations in free and cued-recall, coupled to a reduced contiguity effect in free-recall. Seventeen older controls and 17 prAD patients performed a cued-recall task involving overlapping word pairs and a final free-recall task. Proportions of backward and transitive intrusions in cued-recall did not significantly differ between groups. However, in free-recall, prAD patients demonstrated a reduced contiguity effect as well as reduced proportions of backward and transitive associations compared to older controls. These findings are discussed within the hypothesis that the contextual representation, binding and/or retrieval processes are affected in prAD patients compared to healthy older individuals. (JINS, 2015, 21, 699–708)
Differences in healthy food supply and stocking practices between small grocery stores, gas-marts, pharmacies and dollar stores
Authors: Caspi Caitlin Eicher , Pelletier Jennifer E , Harnack Lisa , Erickson Darin J , Laska Melissa N
Published: September 2015

Objective

Little is known about the practices for stocking and procuring healthy food in non-traditional food retailers (e.g. gas-marts, pharmacies). The present study aimed to: (i) compare availability of healthy food items across small food store types; and (ii) examine owner/manager perceptions and stocking practices for healthy food across store types.

Design

Descriptive analyses were conducted among corner/small grocery stores, gas-marts, pharmacies and dollar stores. Data from store inventories were used to examine availability of twelve healthy food types and an overall healthy food supply score. Interviews with managers assessed stocking practices and profitability.

Setting

Small stores in Minneapolis and St. Paul, MN, USA, not participating in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children.

Subjects

One hundred and nineteen small food retailers and seventy-one store managers.

Results

Availability of specific items varied across store type. Only corner/small grocery stores commonly sold fresh vegetables (63 % v. 8 % of gas-marts, 0 % of dollar stores and 23 % of pharmacies). More than half of managers stocking produce relied on cash-and-carry practices to stock fresh fruit (53 %) and vegetables (55 %), instead of direct store delivery. Most healthy foods were perceived by managers to have at least average profitability.

Conclusions

Interventions to improve healthy food offerings in small stores should consider the diverse environments, stocking practices and supply mechanisms of small stores, particularly non-traditional food retailers. Improvements may require technical support, customer engagement and innovative distribution practices.
Simulation and Optimization of a Carbon Nanotube Electron Source
Authors: Knápek Alexandr , Radlička Tomáš , Krátký Stanislav
Published: September 2015

This paper deals with an optimization of a field-emission structure concept based on vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (CNT). A design concept for a fabrication method for a gate structure based on electron beam lithography is reviewed in the first part of the paper. A single carbon nanotube is grown by the PECVD method inside the gate structure. Calculations and simulations that help determine gate structure proportions in order to obtain the best possible electron reduced brightness and to predict the cathode's electric behavior are also essential parts of this study.
Simulation of Space Charge Effects in Electron Optical System Based on the Calculations of Current Density
Authors: Zelinka Jiří , Oral Martin , Radlička Tomáš
Published: September 2015

We present a numerical method for iterative computation of electron optical systems influenced by space charge with an improved accuracy in the same calculation time. We replace the common algorithm for evaluating the space charge distribution with a new one based on the calculation of the current density distribution from an aberration polynomial. We introduce a re-meshing algorithm which adapts the mesh used for the field calculation by the finite element method in each iteration to the actual space charge distribution to keep it sufficiently fine in all areas with non-zero space charge.
The Simulation of Energy Distribution of Electrons Detected by Segmental Ionization Detector in High Pressure Conditions of ESEM
Authors: Neděla V. , Konvalina I. , Oral M. , Hudec J.
Published: September 2015

This paper presents computed dependencies of the detected electron energy distribution on the water vapour pressure in an environmental scanning electron microscope obtained using the EOD software with a Monte Carlo plug-in for the electron-gas interactions. The software GEANT was used for the Monte Carlo simulations of the beam-sample interactions and the signal electron emission from the sample into the gaseous environment. The simulations were carried out for selected energies of the signal electrons collected by two electrodes with two different diameters with the voltages of +350 V and 0, respectively, and then 0 and +350 V, respectively, and for the distance of 2 mm between the sample and the detection electrodes of the ionization detector. The simulated results are verified by experimental measurements. Consequences of the simulated and experimental dependencies on the acquisition of the topographical or material contrasts using our ionization detector equipped with segmented detection electrode are described and discussed.
ELEMENTS OF ORDER FOUR IN THE NARROW CLASS GROUP OF REAL QUADRATIC FIELDS
Authors: BENJAMIN ELLIOT , SNYDER C.
Published: September 2015

Using the elements of order four in the narrow ideal class group, we construct generators of the maximal elementary $2$-class group of real quadratic number fields with even discriminant which is a sum of two squares and with fundamental unit of positive norm. We then give a characterization of when two of these generators are equal in the narrow sense in terms of norms of Gaussian integers.
Polarization-independent single-layer ultra-wideband frequency-selective surface
Authors: Sivasamy Ramprabhu , Moorthy Balaji , Kanagasabai Malathi , George Jithila V. , Lawrance Livya , Rajendran Dinesh Babu
Published: September 2015

An ultra-wideband (UWB) frequency-selective surface (FSS) exhibiting band rejection characteristic is presented in this paper. The proposed unit cell has the size of 14 × 14 mm2 which is approximately 0.18 × 0.18 λo, where λo corresponds to free space wavelength at the lower cut-off frequency. The proposed UWB FSS consists of a single-layer substrate and provides 20 dB attenuation level for a wide bandwidth of 7.53 GHz at the normal incidence. The proposed FSS is polarization independent and also provides angular-independent operation for the EM wave incidences of 15°, 30° and 45° with 11.5 dB attenuation over a wide range from 4 to 14 GHz.
A compact low-phase noise oscillator with superior harmonic suppression characteristics based on novel nested split-ring resonator (NSRR)
Authors: Liu Yong , Xie Neng , Tang Xiaohong , Xiao Fei
Published: September 2015

In this paper, a novel microwave oscillator incorporating miniaturized nested split-ring resonators is proposed. The high-quality (Q) factor and wide spurious-free band of the NSRR contribute to low-phase noise and high-harmonic suppression of the proposed oscillator circuits. In addition, the NSRR is featured by compact size of 0.12λg × 0.12λg, where λg is the guided wavelength of resonance frequency. The fabricated 2.4 GHz oscillator has an output power of 11.7 dBm with 5 V DC supply and 10 mA current consumption. The second harmonic suppression is −45.49 dBc, the phase noise is −110 dBc/Hz @100 kHz, and the DC–RF conversion efficiency is measured as 30%.
Erfahrungen und Bedürfnisse von Eltern hospitalisierter Kinder mit Behinderung und den in der Betreuung verantwortlichen medizinischen Fachpersonen – Eine systematische Review
Authors: Seliner Brigitte , Wattinger Alexandra , Spirig Rebecca
Published: September 2015

Zusammenfassung. Hintergrund: Die Hospitalisation eines Kindes mit Behinderung belastet deren Eltern zusätzlich zur gewohnten täglichen Belastung. Obwohl sie meist die Pflege ihres Kindes im Spital übernehmen, fehlt für den deutschsprachigen Raum Wissen über Erfahrungen und Bedürfnisse dieser Eltern. Fragestellung: Welche Erfahrungen und Bedürfnisse werden von Eltern hospitalisierter Kinder mit Behinderung und den in der Betreuung verantwortlichen medizinischen Fachpersonen beschrieben und welche Unterstützungsmaßnahmen ergeben sich für die Eltern? Methode: Eine systematische Review gemäß PRISMA-Statement wurde im Januar 2014 in den Datenbanken Pubmed/Medline, PsycINFO, CINAHL und EMBASE durchgeführt. Vierzehn Publikationen wurden thematisch anhand der Inhaltsanalyse ausgewertet. Ergebnisse: Die Literatur bestätigte die emotionale und arbeitsmäßige Belastung der Eltern sowie vor allem der Pflegefachpersonen. Eltern, insbesondere von häufig hospitalisierten Kindern, sind durch zusätzliche Bewältigungsprozesse gefordert. Die familienzentrierte Kommunikation und Organisation kann das Wohlbefinden der Eltern sowie des Kindes positiv beeinflussen. Schlussfolgerung: Die Unterstützung der Eltern ist angesichts der hohen Belastung zentral für alle Fachpersonen. Pflegefachpersonen können die Eltern durch gezielte Vorbereitung und Begleitung während der Hospitalisation auf Basis der familienzentrierten Pflege in der Bewältigung unterstützen. Die Unterstützung des Managements und des multiprofessionellen Teams ist unentbehrlich für die Weiterentwicklung von familienzentrierten Kompetenzen und Abläufen.
Erwartungen, Wünsche und Grenzen der künftigen Aufgabenteilung von Pflege und Medizin – Ergebnisse der Care-N Study M-V
Authors: Dreier Adina , Rogalski Hagen , Homeyer Sabine , Oppermann Roman Frank , Hingst Peter , Hoffmann Wolfgang
Published: September 2015

Zusammenfassung. Hintergrund: Die Alterung der Bevölkerung führt zu einem Anstieg des Bedarfs an medizinischen und pflegerischen Versorgungsleistungen. Gleichzeitig altern auch die Akteure des Gesundheitswesens. Das Resultat ist eine Zunahme der medizinischen und pflegerischen Versorgungslücken. Daraus ergibt sich das Erfordernis, die Gesundheitsversorgung zu reformieren und unter anderem die Aufgabenfelder einzelner Akteure neu zu definieren. Fragestellung/Ziel: Der Artikel beschäftigt sich mit den Entwicklungen, Potenzialen und Grenzen der Aufgabenneuteilung von Pflege und Medizin. Ziel ist es, Ansatzpunkte für die Konkretisierung bzgl. der Erwartungen, Wünsche und Grenzen der künftigen Aufgabenteilung zu liefern. Methode: Im Rahmen der Care-N Study M-V erfolgte eine Delphi-Befragung des Typs Ideenaggregation. Ergebnisse: Aus Sicht der befragten Experten übernehmen Pflegefachpersonen künftig zunehmend Routineaufgaben in der medizinisch-pflegerischen Versorgung. Im Gegensatz zur Delegation wird die heilkundliche Aufgabenübertragung von Medizin auf Pflege im Hinblick auf die Realisierbarkeit in der Regelversorgung mit Skepsis betrachtet. Sie erfordert nach Auffassung der Experten einen langen Zeithorizont sowie die frühzeitige Einbindung aller beteiligten Akteure. Schlussfolgerung: Deutschland steht noch am Beginn des Prozesses der Aufgabenneustrukturierung von Pflege und Medizin. Die Realisierung erfordert eine umfassende politische Unterstützung auf Bundesebene und die Entwicklung weiterer Konzepte, die wissenschaftlich erprobt und evaluiert werden müssen.
Eine reflexive Fallarbeit bezogen auf das Schmerzmanagement in einer komplexen Pflegesituation
Authors: Kinsperger Laura , Mayrhofer Stefanie Maria , Pichler Birgit , Qin Hong , Rheinfrank Iris , Schrems Berta
Published: September 2015

Zusammenfassung. Problem: Der Fallbericht behandelt ein unbefriedigendes Schmerzmanagement eines 44-jährigen Patienten nach einem Herz-Kreislauf-Stillstand mit anschließender Reanimation. Der Patient ist (1) in seinem Bewusstsein eingeschränkt, (2) aufgrund eines multiresistenten Keims isoliert, (3) tracheotomiert und (4) entwickelt Muskelkontrakturen in Fingern und Händen. Bei Pflegehandlungen zeigt er durch Mimik und Körperhaltung Schmerzen. Methode: Der Fall wurde nach dem Modell der reflexiven Fallarbeit von Johns (1995) bearbeitet und mittels theoriegestützten Fachwissens und Perspektivenwechsels ausgelegt. Folgende Fragen wurden bearbeitet: Welche Faktoren führten dazu, dass die Situation von der Pflegefachkraft, die den Fall zur Fallbearbeitung einbrachte, als unbefriedigend empfunden wurde? Welche Strategien können bei ähnlichen Situationen in Zukunft angewandt werden? Ergebnisse: Das unzureichende Schmerzmanagement aufgrund von Wissensdefizit, die fehlende Einschätzung des Bewusstseinszustandes und die Isolation führten vermutlich zu unnötigen Belastungen aller Beteiligten. Schulungen, ein systematisches Schmerzmanagement und berufsübergreifende Fallbesprechungen könnten zukünftig den Umgang mit ähnlich komplexen Pflegesituationen für alle Beteiligten erleichtern. Diskussion: Der vorliegende Fall zeigt, dass Schmerzen nur erfolgreich behandelt werden können, wenn diese und die schmerzauslösenden Faktoren bewusst wahrgenommen, systematisch eingeschätzt und therapiert werden. Bei Personen mit eingeschränktem Bewusstsein ist eine adäquate Fremdeinschätzung der Schmerzsituation besonders wichtig. Angesichts der multiplen Einflussfaktoren auf die Schmerzsituation können bei komplexen Fällen interdisziplinäre Fallbesprechungen zu einer Verbesserung des Schmerzmanagements beitragen.
Transporting droplets through surface anisotropy
Authors: Holmes Hal R. , Böhringer Karl F.
Published: September 2015

This review article examines digital microfluidic systems that manipulate droplets through surface anisotropy. These systems are categorized as surface tension driven or contact line driven. Surface tension driven systems include electrowetting on dielectric, Marangoni flow on microheater arrays, and chemical gradient surfaces, whereas contact line driven systems include anisotropic ratchet conveyors, nanostructured Parylene ratchets, and tilted pillar arrays. This article describes the operating principles and outlines the fabrication procedures for each system. We also present new equations that unify several previous models of contact line driven systems. The strengths and weaknesses of each system are compared, with a focus on their ability to perform the generation, switching, fusion, and fission of droplets. Finally, we discuss current and potential future applications of these systems.
An automated Genomes-to-Natural Products platform (GNP) for the discovery of modular natural products
Authors: Johnston Chad W. , Skinnider Michael A. , Wyatt Morgan A. , Li Xiang , Ranieri Michael R. M. , Yang Lian , Zechel David L. , Ma Bin , Magarvey Nathan A.
Published: September 2015

Bacterial natural products are a diverse and valuable group of small molecules, and genome sequencing indicates that the vast majority remain undiscovered. The prediction of natural product structures from biosynthetic assembly lines can facilitate their discovery, but highly automated, accurate, and integrated systems are required to mine the broad spectrum of sequenced bacterial genomes. Here we present a genome-guided natural products discovery tool to automatically predict, combinatorialize and identify polyketides and nonribosomal peptides from biosynthetic assembly lines using LC–MS/MS data of crude extracts in a high-throughput manner. We detail the directed identification and isolation of six genetically predicted polyketides and nonribosomal peptides using our Genome-to-Natural Products platform. This highly automated, user-friendly programme provides a means of realizing the potential of genetically encoded natural products.
Optodynamic simulation of β-adrenergic receptor signalling
Authors: Siuda Edward R. , McCall Jordan G. , Al-Hasani Ream , Shin Gunchul , Il Park Sung , Schmidt Martin J. , Anderson Sonya L. , Planer William J. , Rogers John A. , Bruchas Michael R.
Published: September 2015

Optogenetics has provided a revolutionary approach to dissecting biological phenomena. However, the generation and use of optically active GPCRs in these contexts is limited and it is unclear how well an opsin-chimera GPCR might mimic endogenous receptor activity. Here we show that a chimeric rhodopsin/β2 adrenergic receptor (opto-β2AR) is similar in dynamics to endogenous β2AR in terms of: cAMP generation, MAP kinase activation and receptor internalization. In addition, we develop and characterize a novel toolset of optically active, functionally selective GPCRs that can bias intracellular signalling cascades towards either G-protein or arrestin-mediated cAMP and MAP kinase pathways. Finally, we show how photoactivation of opto-β2AR in vivo modulates neuronal activity and induces anxiety-like behavioural states in both fiber-tethered and wireless, freely moving animals when expressed in brain regions known to contain β2ARs. These new GPCR approaches enhance the utility of optogenetics and allow for discrete spatiotemporal control of GPCR signalling in vitro and in vivo.
Elucidating the genotype–phenotype map by automatic enumeration and analysis of the phenotypic repertoire
Authors: Lomnitz Jason G , Savageau Michael A
Published: September 2015

Background:

The gap between genotype and phenotype is filled by complex biochemical systems most of which are poorly understood. Because these systems are complex, it is widely appreciated that quantitative understanding can only be achieved with the aid of mathematical models. However, formulating models and measuring or estimating their numerous rate constants and binding constants is daunting. Here we present a strategy for automating difficult aspects of the process.

Methods:

The strategy, based on a system design space methodology, is applied to a class of 16 designs for a synthetic gene oscillator that includes seven designs previously formulated on the basis of experimentally measured and estimated parameters.

Results:

Our strategy provides four important innovations by automating: (1) enumeration of the repertoire of qualitatively distinct phenotypes for a system; (2) generation of parameter values for any particular phenotype; (3) simultaneous realization of parameter values for several phenotypes to aid visualization of transitions from one phenotype to another, in critical cases from functional to dysfunctional; and (4) identification of ensembles of phenotypes whose expression can be phased to achieve a specific sequence of functions for rationally engineering synthetic constructs. Our strategy, applied to the 16 designs, reproduced previous results and identified two additional designs capable of sustained oscillations that were previously missed.

Conclusions:

Starting with a system’s relatively fixed aspects, its architectural features, our method enables automated analysis of nonlinear biochemical systems from a global perspective, without first specifying parameter values. The examples presented demonstrate the efficiency and power of this automated strategy.
Genomic and transcriptomic insights into the efficient entomopathogenicity of Bacillus thuringiensis
Authors: Zhu Lei , Peng Donghai , Wang Yueying , Ye Weixing , Zheng Jinshui , Zhao Changming , Han Dongmei , Geng Ce , Ruan Lifang , He Jin , Yu Ziniu , Sun Ming
Published: September 2015

Bacillus thuringiensis has been globally used as a microbial pesticide for over 70 years. However, information regarding its various adaptions and virulence factors and their roles in the entomopathogenic process remains limited. In this work, we present the complete genomes of two industrially patented Bacillus thuringiensis strains (HD-1 and YBT-1520). A comparative genomic analysis showed a larger and more complicated genome constitution that included novel insecticidal toxicity-related genes (ITRGs). All of the putative ITRGs were summarized according to the steps of infection. A comparative genomic analysis showed that highly toxic strains contained significantly more ITRGs, thereby providing additional strategies for infection, immune evasion and cadaver utilization. Furthermore, a comparative transcriptomic analysis suggested that a high expression of these ITRGs was a key factor in efficient entomopathogenicity. We identified an active extra urease synthesis system in the highly toxic strains that may aid B. thuringiensis survival in insects (similar to previous results with well-known pathogens). Taken together, these results explain the efficient entomopathogenicity of B. thuringiensis. It provides novel insights into the strategies used by B. thuringiensis to resist and overcome host immune defenses and helps identify novel toxicity factors.
Jagged-2 enhances immunomodulatory activity in adipose derived mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Xishan Zhu , Bin Zhang , Haiyue Zhao , Xiaowei Dou , Jingwen Bai , Guojun Zhang
Published: September 2015

Adipose derived Mesenchymal stem cells (AMSCs) are able to expand in vitro and undergo differentiation into multiple cell lineages, yet have low immunogenicity while exhibiting several immunoregulatory characteristics. We sought to investigate the immunomodulatory mechanisms of AMSCs to better understand their immunogenic properties. Following 10 days of chondrogenic differentiation or 48 hours of IFN-γ pretreatment, AMSCs retained low level immunogenicity but prominent immunoregulatory activity and AMSC immunogenicity was enhanced by chondrogenic differentiation or IFN-γ treatment. We found Jagged-2 expression was significantly elevated following chondrogenic differentiation or IFN-γ pretreatment. Jagged-2-RNA interference experiments suggested that Jagged-2-siRNA2 suppresses Jagged-2 expression during chondrogenic differentiation and in IFN-γ pretreated AMSCs. Besides, Jagged-2 interference attenuated immunosuppressive activity by mixed lymphocyte culture and mitogen stimulation experiments. So, the immunoregulatory activity of AMSCs, to some extent dependent upon Jagged-2, might be stronger after multilineage differentiation or influence from inflammatory factors. This may also be why rejection does not occur after allogeneic AMSCs differentiate into committed cells.
Accommodative Behavior of Non-porous Molecular crystal at Solid-Gas and Solid-Liquid Interface
Authors: Mande Hemant M. , Ghalsasi Prasanna S.
Published: September 2015

Molecular crystals demonstrate drastically different behavior in solid and liquid state, mainly due to their difference in structural frameworks. Therefore, designing of unique structured molecular compound which can work at both these interfaces has been a challenge. Here, we present remarkable ‘molecular’ property by non-porous molecular solid crystal, dinuclear copper complex (C6H5CH(X)NH2)2CuCl2, to reversibly ‘adsorb’ HCl gas at solid-gas interface as well as ‘accommodate’ azide anion at solid-liquid interface with crystal to crystal transformation. The latter process is driven by molecular recognition, self-assembly and anchimeric assistance. The observed transformations are feasible due to breathing of inner and outer coordination sphere around metal center resulting in change in metal polyhedra for ‘accommodating’ guest molecule. These transformations cause changes in optical, magnetic, and/or ferroelectric property offering diversity in ‘sensing’ application. With the proposed underlying principles in these exceptional reversible and cyclic transformations, we prepared a series of compounds, can facilitate designing of novel multifunctional molecular materials.
HMGA1 overexpression in adipose tissue impairs adipogenesis and prevents diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance
Authors: Arce-Cerezo Altamira , García Miquel , Rodríguez-Nuevo Aida , Crosa-Bonell Mireia , Enguix Natalia , Peró Albert , Muñoz Sergio , Roca Carles , Ramos David , Franckhauser Sylvie , Elias Ivet , Ferre Tura , Pujol Anna , Ruberte Jesús , Villena Josep A. , Bosch Fàtima , Riu Efrén
Published: September 2015

High-Mobility-Group-A1 (HMGA1) proteins are non-histone proteins that regulate chromatin structure and gene expression during embryogenesis, tumourigenesis and immune responses. In vitro studies suggest that HMGA1 proteins may be required to regulate adipogenesis. To examine the role of HMGA1 in vivo, we generated transgenic mice overexpressing HMGA1 in adipose tissues. HMGA1 transgenic mice showed a marked reduction in white and brown adipose tissue mass that was associated with downregulation of genes involved in adipogenesis and concomitant upregulation of preadipocyte markers. Reduced adipogenesis and decreased fat mass were not associated with altered glucose homeostasis since HMGA1 transgenic mice fed a regular-chow diet exhibited normal glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity. However, when fed a high-fat diet, overexpression of HMGA1 resulted in decreased body-weight gain, reduced fat mass, but improved insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance. Although HMGA1 transgenic mice exhibited impaired glucose uptake in adipose tissue due to impaired adipogenesis, the increased glucose uptake observed in skeletal muscle may account for the improved glucose homeostasis. Our results indicate that HMGA1 plays an important function in the regulation of white and brown adipogenesis in vivo and suggests that impaired adipocyte differentiation and decreased fat mass is not always associated with impaired whole-body glucose homeostasis.
Titanium dioxide nanoparticles stimulate sea urchin immune cell phagocytic activity involving TLR/p38 MAPK-mediated signalling pathway
Authors: Pinsino Annalisa , Russo Roberta , Bonaventura Rosa , Brunelli Andrea , Marcomini Antonio , Matranga Valeria
Published: September 2015

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2NPs) are one of the most widespread-engineered particles in use for drug delivery, cosmetics and electronics. However, TiO2NP safety is still an open issue, even for ethical reasons. In this work, we investigated the sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus immune cell model as a proxy to humans, to elucidate a potential pathway that can be involved in the persistent TiO2NP-immune cell interaction in vivo. Morphology, phagocytic ability, changes in activation/inactivation of a few mitogen-activated protein kinases (p38 MAPK, ERK), variations of other key proteins triggering immune response (Toll-like receptor 4-like, Heat shock protein 70, Interleukin-6) and modifications in the expression of related immune response genes were investigated. Our findings indicate that TiO2NPs influence the signal transduction downstream targets of p38 MAPK without eliciting an inflammatory response or other harmful effects on biological functions. We strongly recommend sea urchin immune cells as a new powerful model for nano-safety/nano-toxicity investigations without the ethical normative issue.
Small hole polaron in CdTe: Cd-vacancy revisited
Authors: Shepidchenko A. , Sanyal B. , Klintenberg M. , Mirbt S.
Published: September 2015

The characteristics of electronic states of Cd-vacancies in CdTe, an important semiconductor for various technological applications, are under debate both from theoretical and experimental points of view. Experimentally, the Cd-vacancy in its negative charge state is found to have C3v symmetry and a (−1/−2) transition level at 0.4 eV. Our first principles density functional calculations with hybrid functionals confirm for the first time these experimental findings. Additionally, we find that the C3v symmetry and the position of the (−1/−2) transition level are caused by the formation of a hole polaron localised at an anionic site around the vacancy.
Evidence of a deep viral host switch event with beak and feather disease virus infection in rainbow bee-eaters (Merops ornatus)
Authors: Sarker Subir , Moylan Kathy G. , Ghorashi Seyed A. , Forwood Jade K. , Peters Andrew , Raidal Shane R.
Published: September 2015

Since the characterization of psittacine beak and feather disease (PBFD) in 1984, a wide range of avian circoviruses have been discovered with varying pathogenic effects amongst a diverse range of avian hosts. Until recently these circovirus species were thought to be restricted to within avian Orders such as the Psittaciformes forbeak and feather disease virus(BFDV) and Columbiformes forpigeon circoviruswith little evidence of cross-family transmission or replication. We report evidence of a naturally occurring novel host switch event with self-limiting BFDV infection in a group of rainbow bee-eaters (Merops ornatus) a species of Coraciiformes unrelated to parrots and not previously known to be susceptible to any avian circovirus. The outbreak highlights important and unexpected aspects of disease emergence and host-switching pertinent to other situations when viruses might cross species boundaries as well as the potential of avian circoviruses to infect disparate host species.
Ethyl acetate fraction of Amomum xanthioides improves bile duct ligation-induced liver fibrosis of rat model via modulation of pro-fibrogenic cytokines
Authors: Kim Hyeong-Geug , Han Jong-Min , Lee Jin-Seok , Suk Lee Jong , Son Chang-Gue
Published: September 2015

We investigated anti-hepatofibrotic effects of ethyl acetate fraction of Ammomum xanthoides (EFAX) using bile duct ligation (BDL)-induced hepatic fibrosis in a rat model. Male SD rats (6 weeks old) underwent BDL followed by 15 days of orall administration of EFAX (12.5, 25 or 50 mg/kg) or ursodeoxycholic acid (25 mg/kg). BDL caused animal death, ascites formation, alterations in serum biochemistries and severe hepatic injury with excessive collagen deposition, whereas EFAX treatment significantly attenuated these effects. BDL markedly increased the pro-fibrogenic cytokines (TGF-β, PDGF-β and CTGF) and the extracellular matrix indicators α-SMA, TIMP-1 and collagen type 1 in hepatic proteins and gene expression levels, which were notably normalized by EFAX treatment. EFAX also markedly normalized pro-fibrogenic signaling molecules including Smad2/3, Smad7, Akt, p44/42 and p38. We further explored EFAX mechanisms of actions using LX-2 cells (human derived hepatic stellate cell line). Pre-treatment with EFAX drastically attenuated the activation of α-SMA and Smad2/3, which are downstream molecules of TGF-β. These findings suggest that EFAX may be a potent anti-hepatofibrotic agent and its corresponding mechanisms primarily involve the modulation of pro-fibrogenic cytokines.
Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Derived Neuronal Cells Cultured on Chemically-Defined Hydrogels for Sensitive In Vitro Detection of Botulinum Neurotoxin
Authors: Pellett Sabine , Schwartz Michael P. , Tepp William H. , Josephson Richard , Scherf Jacob M. , Pier Christina L. , Thomson James A. , Murphy William L. , Johnson Eric A.
Published: September 2015

Botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) detection provides a useful model for validating cell-based neurotoxicity screening approaches, as sensitivity is dependent on functionally competent neurons and clear quantitative endpoints are available for correlating results to approved animal testing protocols. Here, human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neuronal cells were cultured on chemically-defined poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) hydrogels formed by “thiol-ene” photopolymerization and tested as a cell-based neurotoxicity assay by determining sensitivity to active BoNT/A1. BoNT/A1 sensitivity was comparable to the approvedin vivomouse bioassay for human iPSC-derived neurons and neural stem cells (iPSC-NSCs) cultured on PEG hydrogels or treated tissue culture polystyrene (TCP) surfaces. However, maximum sensitivity for BoNT detection was achieved two weeks earlier for iPSC-NSCs that were differentiated and matured on PEG hydrogels compared to TCP. Therefore, chemically-defined synthetic hydrogels offer benefits over standard platforms when optimizing culture conditions for cell-based screening and achieve sensitivities comparable to an approved animal testing protocol.
An increase in the biogenic aerosol concentration as a contributing factor to the recent wetting trend in Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Fang Keyan , Makkonen Risto , Guo Zhengtang , Zhao Yan , Seppä Heikki
Published: September 2015

A significant wetting trend since the early 1980s in Tibetan Plateau (TP) is most conspicuous in central and eastern Asia as shown in the instrumental data and the long-term moisture sensitive tree rings. We found that anomalies in the large-scale oceanic and atmospheric circulations do not play a significant role on the wetting trend in TP. Meanwhile, the weak correlation between local temperature and precipitation suggests that the temperature-induced enhancement of the local water cycle cannot fully explain the wetting trend either. This may indicate the presence of nonlinear processes between local temperature and precipitation. We hypothesize that the current warming may enhance the emissions of the biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOC) that can increase the secondary organic aerosols (SOA), contributing to the precipitation increase. The wetting trend can increase the vegetation cover and cause a positive feedback on the BVOC emissions. Our simulations indicate a significant contribution of increased BVOC emissions to the regional organic aerosol mass and the simulated increase in BVOC emissions is significantly correlated with the wetting trend in TP.
Colorimetric sensor array with unmodified noble metal nanoparticles for naked-eye detection of proteins and bacteria
Authors: Li Dongyang , Dong Yanhua , Li Bingyu , Wu Yayan , Wang Kai , Zhang Sichun
Published: September 2015

Herein we report a novel strategy for the detection and identification of proteins using unmodified noble metal nanoparticles.
Restricted access molecularly imprinted polymers obtained by bovine serum albumin and/or hydrophilic monomers’ external layers: a comparison related to physical and chemical properties
Authors: Santos Mariane Gonçalves , Moraes Gabriel de Oliveira Isac , Nakamura Maurício Gustavo , dos Santos-Neto Álvaro José , Figueiredo Eduardo Costa
Published: September 2015

RAMIP-BSA is the best material for sample preparation in terms of selectivity, protein exclusion, and adsorption.
A comparative study of APLI and APCI in IMS at atmospheric pressure to reveal and explain peak broadening effects by the use of APLI
Authors: Ihlenborg Marvin , Raupers Björn , Gunzer Frank , Grotemeyer Jürgen
Published: September 2015

The details of the ionization mechanism in atmospheric pressure are still not completely known.
Cancer screening via infrared spectral cytopathology (SCP): results for the upper respiratory and digestive tracts
Authors: Diem Max , Miljković Miloš , Bird Benjamin , Mazur Antonella I. , Schubert Jen M. , Townsend Douglas , Laver Nora , Almond Max , Old Oliver
Published: September 2015

Instrumental advances in infrared micro-spectroscopy have made possible the observation of individual human cells and even subcellular structures.
Comparison of carboxypeptidase Y and thermolysin for ochratoxin A electrochemical biosensing
Authors: Dridi Fatma , Marrakchi Mouna , Gargouri Mohamed , Saulnier Joëlle , Jaffrezic-Renault Nicole , Lagarde Florence
Published: September 2015

Carboxypeptidase Y and thermolysin as sensing elements to develop an original biosensor for the direct and rapid detection of ochratoxin A in olive oil.
Quality control throughout the production process of Chinese herbal preparations using HPLC-DAD multiple chromatographic fingerprinting combined with HPLC/Q-TOF MS: a case study on Re Du Ning injections
Authors: Li Yan-Jing , Wang Shu-Yao , Bi Sen , Sun Li-Qiong , Zhang Chun-Xiao , Zhang Shan , Huang Wen-Zhe , Wang Zhen-Zhong , Wang Yue-Sheng , Bi Yu-An , Xiao Wei
Published: September 2015

Recently, chromatographic fingerprinting has become one of the most powerful approaches for quality control of Chinese herbal preparations.
Low temperature hydrodeoxygenation of phenols under ambient hydrogen pressure to form cyclohexanes catalysed by Pt nanoparticles supported on H-ZSM-5
Authors: Ohta Hidetoshi , Yamamoto Kentaro , Hayashi Minoru , Hamasaka Go , Uozumi Yasuhiro , Watanabe Yutaka
Published: September 2015

The hydrodeoxygenation of various phenols to form cyclohexanes under mild conditions (ambient H2 pressure and 110 °C) was developed by using a Pt/H-ZSM-5 catalyst and octane as the solvent.
AIEE phenomenon: tetraaryl vs. triaryl pyrazoles
Authors: Mukherjee Sayani , Salini P. S. , Srinivasan A. , Peruncheralathan S.
Published: September 2015

A library of tetraaryl pyrazole derivatives were synthesized and the AIEE phenomenon was explored.
Chemoselective reduction of the phosphoryl bond of O-alkyl phosphinates and related compounds: an apparently impossible transformation
Authors: Kenny Niall P. , Rajendran Kamalraj V. , Gilheany Declan G.
Published: September 2015

A method is reported for the phosphoryl bond cleavage of O-alkyl phosphinates, phosphinothioates and certain phosphonamidates to furnish the corresponding P(iii) borane adducts.
Single-molecule interfacial electron transfer dynamics of porphyrin on TiO2 nanoparticles: dissecting the interfacial electric field and electron accepting state density dependent dynamics
Authors: Rao Vishal Govind , Dhital Bharat , Peter Lu H.
Published: September 2015

Single-molecule photon-stamping spectroscopy correlated with electrochemical techniques was used to dissect interfacial electron transfer dynamics by probing an m-ZnTCPP molecule anchored to a TiO2 NP surface.
Design of isolated iron species for Fenton reactions: lyophilization beats calcination treatment
Authors: Zhang Leitao , Ye Hui , Zhao Lizhi , Zhang Lei , Yao Lili , Zhang Yuzhong , Li Hong
Published: September 2015

Compared with the calcination catalyst, the lyophilization sample exhibits a higher catalytic activity and H2O2 utilization efficiency but lower iron leaching in catalytic phenol degradation.
Spontaneous growth of ultra-thin titanium oxides shell on Ag nanowires: an electron energy loss spectroscope observation
Authors: Tsai Chi-Hang , Chen Shih-Yun , Song Jenn-Ming , Gloter Alexandre
Published: September 2015

Ag nanowires with a spontaneous ultra-thin TiO2 shell (∼0.5 nm) can be grown on TiO2 substrate.
A supramolecular dissociation strategy for protein sensing
Authors: Wang Hui , Zhuang Jiaming , Raghupathi Krishna R. , Thayumanavan S.
Published: September 2015

We report a simple, robust, and general strategy for protein detection based on supramolecular dissociation.
Controllable synthesis of four series of lanthanide coordination polymers: synthesis, structures, luminescent and magnetic properties
Authors: An Ran , Wang Xiaofang , Hu Huai-Ming , Zhao Zhui , Bai Chao , Xue Ganglin
Published: September 2015

Four series of lanthanide coordination polymers based on 2-(2-sulfophenyl)imidazo(4,5-f)(1,10)-phenanthroline and glutaric acid have been hydrothermally synthesized by changing the molar ratio and the pH value.
Ce K edge XAS of ceria-based redox materials under realistic conditions for the two-step solar thermochemical dissociation of water and/or CO2
Authors: Rothensteiner Matthäus , Sala Simone , Bonk Alexander , Vogt Ulrich , Emerich Hermann , van Bokhoven Jeroen A.
Published: September 2015

X-ray absorption spectroscopy was used to characterise ceria-based materials under realistic conditions present in a reactor for solar thermochemical two-step water and carbon dioxide splitting.
Chemical structures and physical properties of vanadium oxide films modified by single-walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: He Qiong , Xu Xiangdong , Wang Meng , Sun Minghui , Jiang Yadong , Yao Jie , Ao Tianhong
Published: September 2015

A series of vanadium oxide (VOx)–single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) composite films with different SWCNT concentrations were prepared and systematically investigated. The critical SWCNT concentrations for modification of VOx films were experimentally deduced.
Effects of the amino acid sequence on thermal conduction through β-sheet crystals of natural silk protein
Authors: Zhang Lin , Bai Zhitong , Ban Heng , Liu Ling
Published: September 2015

Molecular mechanisms underpinning the thermal transport process through three types of β-sheets are studied to reveal the intrinsic sequence effects.
Is C50a superaromat? Evidence from electronic structure and ring current calculations
Authors: Matías Ana Sanz , Havenith Remco W. A. , Alcamí Manuel , Ceulemans Arnout
Published: September 2015

Of the three lowest isomers of C50fullerene, the minimal energyD3isomer comes closest to a spherical aromat or superaromat.
Themed issue on “Organic field-effect transistors: interfacial phenomena and electronic properties”
Authors: Krishnamoorthy K. , Facchetti Antonio F. , Hu Wenping , Bao Zhenan
Published: September 2015

This themed issue presents a collection of articles on organic field-effect transistors: interfacial phenomena and electronic properties.
Correction: CHEM21 selection guide of classical- and less classical-solvents
Authors: Prat Denis , Wells Andy , Hayler John , Sneddon Helen , McElroy C. Robert , Abou-Shehada Sarah , Dunn Peter J.
Published: September 2015

Correction for ‘CHEM21 selection guide of classical- and less classical-solvents’ by Denis Prat, et al., Green Chem., 2015, DOI: 10.1039/c5gc01008j.
Methionine oxidation of amyloid peptides by peroxovanadium complexes: inhibition of fibril formation through a distinct mechanism
Authors: He Lei , Wang Xuesong , Zhu Dengsen , Zhao Cong , Du Weihong
Published: September 2015

Peroxovanadium complexes inhibit the fibril formation of neurodegenerative amyloid peptides by oxidizing methionine residues.
Optimization of silver nanowire-based transparent electrodes: effects of density, size and thermal annealing
Authors: Lagrange M. , Langley D. P. , Giusti G. , Jiménez C. , Bréchet Y. , Bellet D.
Published: September 2015

This article demonstrates a method to calculate the opto-electrical properties of silver nanowire networks used as transparent electrodes. The electical properties can be adjusted by choosing suitable nanowire dimensions and network density for their use in several flexible applications.
Fully solution-processed transparent electrodes based on silver nanowire composites for perovskite solar cells
Authors: Kim Areum , Lee Hongseuk , Kwon Hyeok-Chan , Jung Hyun Suk , Park Nam-Gyu , Jeong Sunho , Moon Jooho
Published: September 2015

Fully solution-processed silver nanowire (AgNW)-based transparent electrodes for perovskite solar cells are demonstrated. The ZnO/ITO/AgNW/ITO composite effectively blocked the diffusion of halogen ions.
Acid–base indicators for non-polar solvents via anion-exchange of polymeric ionic liquids with anionic dyes
Authors: Luo Bin , Xia Yumin , Zhao Hualei , Wang Yanping
Published: September 2015

This work reports the synthesis of acid–base indicators based on linear polymeric ionic liquids and their indicating behaviors in non-polar solvents.
Facile and cost-effective branched acrylic copolymers from multifunctional comonomers and multifunctional chain transfer agents
Authors: Chisholm M. S. , Martin I. K. , Slark A. T.
Published: September 2015

Branched acrylic copolymers were synthesised via facile conventional free-radical polymerisations taken to high conversion using comonomers containing 2-6 acrylate functional groups and chain transfer agents containing 1-8 thiol functional groups.
NH3-SCR activity, hydrothermal stability and poison resistance of a zirconium phosphate/Ce0.5Zr0.5O2 catalyst in simulated diesel exhaust
Authors: Yu Jun , Si Zhichun , Zhu Man , Wu Xiaodong , Chen Lei , Weng Duan , Zou Jinshuo
Published: September 2015

A ZP/CZ catalyst exhibited over 80% NOx conversion at 250–450 °C at a high GHSV of 300 000 h−1 in the presence of H2O, CO2 and C3H8.
Carrier relaxation dynamics in defect states of epitaxial GaN/AlN/Si using ultrafast transient absorption spectroscopy
Authors: Dugar Palak , Kumar Mahesh , T. C. Shibin Krishna , Aggarwal Neha , Gupta Govind
Published: September 2015

Carrier relaxation dynamics through the defect levels in an epitaxial GaN/AlN/Si have been analysed on the femto–picosecond timescale, using ultrafast-transient absorption spectroscopy.
Synthesis and properties of a novel ecofriendly superabsorbent hydrogel nanocomposite based on xyloglucan-graft-poly(acrylic acid)/diatomite
Authors: Mukerabigwi Jean Felix , Lei Shaojun , Wang Haili , Luo Shiying , Ma Xiaoya , Qin Jing , Huang Xueying , Cao Yu
Published: September 2015

Recently, there has been growing interest in the use of natural available materials to prepare superabsorbents due to their low-cost and environmental friendliness.
Investigations on the rate performance of LiFePO4/CeO2 composite materials via polyol technique for rechargeable lithium batteries
Authors: Sivakumar M. , Muruganantham R. , Subadevi R.
Published: September 2015

Surface modification of LiFePO4 using CeO2 cathode materials has been prepared by polyol technique with a chemical combination route. CeO2 has been formed as solid solution on LiFePO4 surface, which provides better EC performances.
A dielectric loss angle based portable biosensor system for bacterial concentration detection
Authors: Chen Jingyao , Cai Jie , Hu Hao , Huang Xingjian , Yi Tian , Wang Kexing , Pan Siyi
Published: September 2015

A new type of portable sensor is proposed to detect bacterial concentration based on the change in dielectric loss angleδ.
Effect of graphene on the self-assembly and rheological behavior of a triblock copolymer gel
Authors: Zabet Mahla , Mishra Satish , Kundu Santanu
Published: September 2015

Self-assembly and the mechanical properties of graphene containing physical gels are reported in this work.
High performance solid-state supercapacitors based on compressed graphene foam
Authors: Liu Jinzhang , Wang Bin , Mirri Francesca , Pasquali Matteo , Motta Nunzio
Published: September 2015

Flexible and solid-state supercapacitors are made using compressed graphene foams as electrodes and highly conductive carbon nanotube (CNT) films as current collectors.
Synthesis of phenolic amides and evaluation of their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Lee Ya-Ting , Hsieh You-Liang , Yeh Yen-Hung , Huang Chih-Yang
Published: September 2015

15 phenolic amides (PAs) have been synthesized and examinedin vitrousing four tests: (1) prevention of Cu2+-induced human low-density lipoprotein oxidation, (2) scavenging of stable radicals, (3) anti-inflammatory activity, and (4) scavenging of superoxide radicals.
Electrochemical degradation of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) by Yb-doped Ti/SnO2–Sb/PbO2anodes and determination of the optimal conditions
Authors: Ma Qianchi , Liu Lei , Cui Wei , Li Ruifeng , Song Tingting , Cui Zhaojie
Published: September 2015

Model aqueous solutions of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA, 100 mg L−1) were electro-oxidized in a homemade container.
Current trends and future prospects of lipstatin: a lipase inhibitor and pro-drug for obesity
Authors: Kumar Punit , Dubey Kashyap Kumar
Published: September 2015

A review of the implications and causes of obesity, the status of antiobesity drugs, the mechanism of inhibition of pancreatic lipases, the biosynthesis of lipstatin and the present status of lipstatin production.