bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carbon-Coated Honeycomb Ni-Mn-Co-O Inverse Opal: A High Capacity Ternary Transition Metal Oxide Anode for Li-ion Batteries
Authors: McNulty David , Geaney Hugh , O’Dwyer Colm
Published: February 2017

We present the formation of a carbon-coated honeycomb ternary Ni-Mn-Co-O inverse opal as a conversion mode anode material for Li-ion battery applications. In order to obtain high capacity via conversion mode reactions, a single phase crystalline honeycombed IO structure of Ni-Mn-Co-O material was first formed. This Ni-Mn-Co-O IO converts via reversible redox reactions and Li2O formation to a 3D structured matrix assembly of nanoparticles of three (MnO, CoO and NiO) oxides, that facilitates efficient reactions with Li. A carbon coating maintains the structure without clogging the open-worked IO pore morphology for electrolyte penetration and mass transport of products during cycling. The highly porous IO was compared in a Li-ion half-cell to nanoparticles of the same material and showed significant improvement in specific capacity and capacity retention. Further optimization of the system was investigated by incorporating a vinylene carbonate additive into the electrolyte solution which boosted performance, offering promising high-rate performance and good capacity retention over extended cycling. The analysis confirms the possibility of creating a ternary transition metal oxide material with binder free accessible open-worked structure to allow three conversion mode oxides to efficiently cycle as an anode material for Li-ion battery applications.
Identification of crude drugs in the Japanese pharmacopoeia using a DNA barcoding system
Authors: Chen Xiaochen , Xiang Li , Shi Linchun , Li Gang , Yao Hui , Han Jianping , Lin Yulin , Song Jingyuan , Chen Shilin
Published: February 2017

Kampo is the general designation for traditional Japanese herbal medicines, which are recognized as official medicines and listed in the Japanese pharmacopoeia (JP). In most cases, it is difficult to identify the crude drug materials to species level using only traditional identification methods. We report the first online DNA barcode identification system, which includes standard barcode sequences from approximately 95% of the species recorded in the JP (16th edition). This tool provides users with basic information on each crude drug recorded in the JP, DNA barcoding identification of herbal material, and the standard operating procedure (SOP) from sampling to data analysis. ITS2 sequences (psbA-trnH was an alternative when ITS2 could not be amplified) were generated from a total of 576 samples to establish the database. An additional 100 samples (from different medicinal parts, from both single origin and multiple origins and from both retailers and the planting base) were identified using the system. A total of 78% of the test samples were identified as the species listed on their label. This system establishes a model platform for other pharmacopeias from countries like China, Korea, the US and the European Union, for the safe and effective utilization of traditional herbal medicines.
The spectral and spatial distribution of light pollution in the waters of the northern Gulf of Aqaba (Eilat)
Authors: Tamir Raz , Lerner Amit , Haspel Carynelisa , Dubinsky Zvy , Iluz David
Published: February 2017

The urbanization of the shores of the Gulf of Aqaba has exposed the marine environment there, including unique fringing coral reefs, to strong anthropogenic light sources. Here we present the first in situ measurements of artificial nighttime light under water in such an ecosystem, with irradiance measured in 12 wavelength bands, at 19 measurement stations spread over 44 square km, and at 30 depths down to 30-m depth. At 1-m depth, we find downwelling irradiance values that vary from 4.6 × 10−4 μW cm−2 nm−1 500 m from the city to 1 × 10−6 μW cm−2 nm−1 in the center of the gulf (9.5 km from the city) in the yellow channel (589-nm wavelength) and from 1.3 × 10−4 μW cm−2nm−1 to 4.3 × 10−5 μW cm−2 nm−1 in the blue channel (443-nm wavelength). Down to 10-m depth, we find downwelling irradiance values that vary from 1 × 10−6 μW cm−2nm−1 to 4.6 × 10−4 μW cm−2 nm−1 in the yellow channel and from 2.6 × 10−5 μW cm−2 nm−1 to 1.3 × 10−4 μW cm−2 nm−1 in the blue channel, and we even detected a signal at 30-m depth. This irradiance could influence such biological processes as the tuning of circadian clocks, the synchronization of coral spawning, recruitment and competition, vertical migration of demersal plankton, feeding patterns, and prey/predator visual interactions.
Ultrasensitive Label-free Electrochemical Immunosensor based on Multifunctionalized Graphene Nanocomposites for the Detection of Alpha Fetoprotein
Authors: Wang Yaoguang , Zhang Yong , Wu Dan , Ma Hongmin , Pang Xuehui , Fan Dawei , Wei Qin , Du Bin
Published: February 2017

In this work, a novel label-free electrochemical immunosensor was developed for the quantitative detection of alpha fetoprotein (AFP). Multifunctionalized graphene nanocomposites (TB-Au-Fe3O4-rGO) were applied to modify the electrode to achieve the amplification of electrochemical signal. TB-Au-Fe3O4-rGO includes the advantages of graphene, ferroferric oxide nanoparticles (Fe3O4 NPs), gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) and toluidine blue (TB). As a kind of redox probe, TB can produce the electrochemical signal. Graphene owns large specific surface area, high electrical conductivity and good adsorption property to load a large number of TB. Fe3O4 NPs have good electrocatalytic performance towards the redox of TB. Au NPs have good biocompatibility to capture the antibodies. Due to the good electrochemical performance of TB-Au-Fe3O4-rGO, the effective and sensitive detection of AFP was achieved by the designed electrochemical immunosensor. Under optimal conditions, the designed immunosensor exhibited a wide linear range from 1.0 × 10−5 ng/mL to 10.0 ng/mL with a low detection limit of 2.7 fg/mL for AFP. It also displayed good electrochemical performance including good reproducibility, selectivity and stability, which would provide potential applications in the clinical diagnosis of other tumor markers.
A Novel Read Scheme for Large Size One-Resistor Resistive Random Access Memory Array
Authors: Zackriya Mohammed , Kittur Harish M. , Chin Albert
Published: February 2017

The major issue of RRAM is the uneven sneak path that limits the array size. For the first time record large One-Resistor (1R) RRAM array of 128x128 is realized, and the array cells at the worst case still have good Low-/High-Resistive State (LRS/HRS) current difference of 378 nA/16 nA, even without using the selector device. This array has extremely low read current of 9.7 μA due to both low-current RRAM device and circuit interaction, where a novel and simple scheme of a reference point by half selected cell and a differential amplifier (DA) were implemented in the circuit design.
Genome-wide identification of the TIFY gene family in three cultivated Gossypium species and the expression of JAZ genes
Authors: Sun Quan , Wang Guanghao , Zhang Xiao , Zhang Xiangrui , Qiao Peng , Long Lu , Yuan Youlu , Cai Yingfan
Published: February 2017

TIFY proteins are plant-specific proteins containing TIFY, JAZ, PPD and ZML subfamilies. A total of 50, 54 and 28 members of the TIFY gene family in three cultivated cotton species—Gossypium hirsutum, Gossypium barbadense and Gossypium arboretum—were identified, respectively. The results of phylogenetic analysis showed that these TIFY genes were divided into eight clusters. The different clusters of gene family members often have similar gene structures, including the number of exons. The results of quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) showed that different JAZ genes displayed distinct expression patterns in the leaves of upland cotton under treatment with Gibberellin (GA), methyl jasmonate (MeJA), Jasmonic acid (JA) and abscisic acid (ABA). Different groups of JAZ genes exhibited different expression patterns in cotton leaves infected with Verticillium dahliae. The results of the comparative analysis of TIFY genes in the three cultivated species will be useful for understanding the involvement of these genes in development and stress resistance in cotton.
Preclinical evaluation of bacterially produced RSV-G protein vaccine: Strong protection against RSV challenge in cotton rat model
Authors: Fuentes Sandra , Klenow Laura , Golding Hana , Khurana Surender
Published: February 2017

In current study, we evaluated the safety and protective efficacy of recombinant unglycosylated RSV G protein ectodomain produced in E. coli (in presence and absence of oil-in-water adjuvant) in a preclinical RSV susceptible cotton rat challenge model compared to formaldehyde inactivated RSV (FI-RSV) and live RSV experimental infection. The adjuvanted G protein vaccine induced robust neutralization antibody responses comparable to those generated by live RSV infection. Importantly, adjuvanted G protein significantly reduced viral loads in both the lungs and nose at early time points following viral challenge. Antibody kinetics determined by Surface Plasmon Resonance showed that adjuvanted G generated 10-fold higher G-binding antibodies compared to non-adjvuanted G vaccine and live RSV infection, which correlated strongly with both neutralization titers and viral load titers in the nose and lungs post-viral challenge. Antibody diversity analysis revealed immunodominant antigenic sites in the N- and C-termini of the RSV-G protein, that were boosted >10-fold by adjuvant and inversely correlated with viral load titers. Enhanced lung pathology was observed only in animals vaccinated with FI-RSV, but not in animals vaccinated with unadjuvanted or adjuvanted RSV-G vaccine after viral challenge. The bacterially produced unglycosylated G protein could be developed as a protective vaccine against RSV disease.
Unbiased K-mer Analysis Reveals Changes in Copy Number of Highly Repetitive Sequences During Maize Domestication and Improvement
Authors: Liu Sanzhen , Zheng Jun , Migeon Pierre , Ren Jie , Hu Ying , He Cheng , Liu Hongjun , Fu Junjie , White Frank F. , Toomajian Christopher , Wang Guoying
Published: February 2017

The major component of complex genomes is repetitive elements, which remain recalcitrant to characterization. Using maize as a model system, we analyzed whole genome shotgun (WGS) sequences for the two maize inbred lines B73 and Mo17 using k-mer analysis to quantify the differences between the two genomes. Significant differences were identified in highly repetitive sequences, including centromere, 45S ribosomal DNA (rDNA), knob, and telomere repeats. Genotype specific 45S rDNA sequences were discovered. The B73 and Mo17 polymorphic k-mers were used to examine allele-specific expression of 45S rDNA in the hybrids. Although Mo17 contains higher copy number than B73, equivalent levels of overall 45S rDNA expression indicates that transcriptional or post-transcriptional regulation mechanisms operate for the 45S rDNA in the hybrids. Using WGS sequences of B73xMo17 doubled haploids, genomic locations showing differential repetitive contents were genetically mapped, which displayed different organization of highly repetitive sequences in the two genomes. In an analysis of WGS sequences of HapMap2 lines, including maize wild progenitor, landraces, and improved lines, decreases and increases in abundance of additional sets of k-mers associated with centromere, 45S rDNA, knob, and retrotransposons were found among groups, revealing global evolutionary trends of genomic repeats during maize domestication and improvement.
Optimal designs of mollusk shells from bivalves to snails
Authors: Okabe Takuya , Yoshimura Jin
Published: February 2017

Bivalve, ammonite and snail shells are described by a small number of geometrical parameters. Raup noted that the vast majority of theoretically possible shell forms do not occur in nature. The constraint factors that regulate the biased distribution of natural form have long since been an open problem in evolution. The problem of whether natural shell form is a result of optimization remains unsolved despite previous attempts. Here we solve this problem by considering the scaling exponent of shell thickness as a morphological parameter. The scaling exponent has a drastic effect on the optimal design of shell shapes. The observed characteristic shapes of natural shells are explained in a unified manner as a result of optimal utilization of shell material resources, while isometric growth in thickness leads to impossibly tight coiling.
In-situ Multimodal Imaging and Spectroscopy of Mg Electrodeposition at Electrode-Electrolyte Interfaces
Authors: Wu Yimin A. , Yin Zuwei , Farmand Maryam , Yu Young-Sang , Shapiro David A. , Liao Hong-Gang , Liang Wen-I , Chu Ying-Hao , Zheng Haimei
Published: February 2017

We report the study of Mg cathodic electrochemical deposition on Ti and Au electrode using a multimodal approach by examining the sample area in-situ using liquid cell transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning transmission X-ray microscopy (STXM) and X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS). Magnesium Aluminum Chloride Complex was synthesized and utilized as electrolyte, where non-reversible features during in situ charging-discharging cycles were observed. During charging, a uniform Mg film was deposited on the electrode, which is consistent with the intrinsic non-dendritic nature of Mg deposition in Mg ion batteries. The Mg thin film was not dissolvable during the following discharge process. We found that such Mg thin film is hexacoordinated Mg compounds by in-situ STXM and XAS. This study provides insights on the non-reversibility issue and failure mechanism of Mg ion batteries. Also, our method provides a novel generic method to understand the in situ battery chemistry without any further sample processing, which can preserve the original nature of battery materials or electrodeposited materials. This multimodal in situ imaging and spectroscopy provides many opportunities to attack complex problems that span orders of magnitude in length and time scale, which can be applied to a broad range of the energy storage systems.
Mechanism study on the sulfidation of ZnO with sulfur and iron oxide at high temperature
Authors: Han Junwei , Liu Wei , Zhang Tianfu , Xue Kai , Li Wenhua , Jiao Fen , Qin Wenqing
Published: February 2017

The mechanism of ZnO sulfidation with sulfur and iron oxide at high temperatures was studied. The thermodynamic analysis, sulfidation behavior of zinc, phase transformations, morphology changes, and surface properties were investigated by HSC 5.0 combined with FactSage 7.0, ICP, XRD, optical microscopy coupled with SEM-EDS, and XPS. The results indicate that increasing temperature and adding iron oxide can not only improve the sulfidation of ZnO but also promote the formation and growth of ZnS crystals. Fe2O3 captured the sulfur in the initial sulfidation process as iron sulfides, which then acted as the sulfurizing agent in the late period, thus reducing sulfur escape at high temperatures. The addition of carbon can not only enhance the sulfidation but increase sulfur utilization rate and eliminate the generation of SO2. The surfaces of marmatite and synthetic zinc sulfides contain high oxygen due to oxidation and oxygen adsorption. Hydroxyl easily absorbs on the surface of iron-bearing zinc sulfide (Zn1−xFexS). The oxidation of synthetic Zn1−xFexS is easier than marmatite in air.
GLCCI1 rs37973: a potential genetic predictor of therapeutic response to inhaled corticosteroids in Chinese chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients
Authors: Lei Yuan , Gao Yiping , Chen Jinkun , Li Miao , Wu Xiaomei , Ning Qin , Zhao Jianping , Xiong Weining , Xu Yongjian , Xie Jungang
Published: February 2017

Inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs) are widely prescribed in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, little is known about predictors of ICSs therapeutic response. To investigate whether the variation in glucocorticoid-induced transcript 1 (GLCCI1) rs37973 is associated with ICS efficacy. A total of 204 clinically stable COPD patients were recruited and administered to inhaled fluticasone propionate/salmeterol combination (500/50 ug, twice daily) for 24 weeks. We genotyped the functional rs37973 and mainly assessed its effects on changes in lung function.In vitro, neutrophils isolated from parts of patients were incubated with various concentrations of dexamethasone (0, 10−6 M and 10−4 M) in the presence or absence of cigarette smoke extract, apoptosis was then assessed by flow cytometry. Patients with the homozygous GG genotype (increases of 15.3 ± 33.2 mL) had significantly poorer improvement in FEV1than those with the AA (92.7 ± 29.6 mL;p < 0.001) or AG (59.4 ± 26.9 mL;p < 0.001) genotypes after 24-week treatment.In vitro, dexamethasone had less inhibitory effect of neutrophil apoptosis on GG genotype, which further validated the presence of mutant allele ‘G’ might negatively affect glucocorticoid responsiveness irrespective of smoking status. The GG genotype of rs37973 may associated with decreased ICSs efficacy in Chinese COPD patients.
Development of competitive indirect ELISAs with a flexible working range for the simple quantification of melatonin in medicinal foods
Authors: Chen Zi-Jian , Fu Hui-Jun , Luo Lin , Sun Yuan-Ming , Yang Jin-Yi , Zeng Dao-Ping , Shen Yu-Dong , Xu Zhen-Lin
Published: February 2017

Melatonin (MT) is an endogenous hormone that is used in medicinal foods for all kinds of purposes.
Supramolecular hydrogel based on high-solid-content mPECT nanoparticles and cyclodextrins for local and sustained drug delivery
Authors: Yin Li , Xu Shuxin , Feng Zujian , Deng Hongzhang , Zhang Jianhua , Gao Huijie , Deng Liandong , Tang Hua , Dong Anjie
Published: February 2017

A novel injectable and high-solid-content drug-loaded supramolecular hydrogel (PTX-mPECT NP/α-CDgel) was prepared by self-assembly of inclusion complexes based on PTX-loaded mPECT nanoparticles and α-cyclodextrin.
A highly sensitive and selective visible-light excitable luminescent probe for singlet oxygen based on a dinuclear ruthenium complex
Authors: Yin Hong-Ju , Liu Yan-Ju , Gao Jie , Wang Ke-Zhi
Published: February 2017

A water-soluble dinuclear Ru(ii) complex acts as visible-light excitable luminescent probes for1O2with low detection limits of 2.7–3.2 nM and exhibits high selectivity over other reactive oxygen species in both neutral and basic media.
Modern fluorescence-based concepts and methods to study biomolecular interactions
Authors: Strianese Maria , Staiano Maria , Capo Alessandro , Pinto Gabriella , Pellecchia Claudio , D'Auria Sabato
Published: February 2017

This mini-review reports on the development of strategies which appear as potential tools to monitor molecular interactions. The goal is to highlight the advances in fluorescence spectroscopy, nanotechnology and probe chemistry to investigate molecular interactions.
3′-Pyrene-modified unlocked nucleic acids: synthesis, fluorescence properties and a surprising stabilization effect on duplexes and triplexes
Authors: Ejlersen Maria , Langkjær Niels , Wengel Jesper
Published: February 2017

Synthesis of a novel 3′-pyrene-functionalized UNA monomer with unprecedented thermal stabilization of duplexes and triplexes.
Mixing indexes considering the combination of mean and dispersion information from intensity images for the performance estimation of micromixing
Authors: Fu Hai , Liu Xuling , Li Songjing
Published: February 2017

Herein, micromixing was utilized to achieve chemical reaction, homogenization, emulsification, and in applications of microfluidics.
Temperature-sensitive carbon dots derived from poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) for fluorescence on–off properties
Authors: Islamy Mazrad Zihnil Adha , Kang Eun Bi , Nuraeni Nuraeni , Lee Gibaek , In Insik , Park Sung Young
Published: February 2017

Here, we report novel thermo-responsive fluorescent nanoparticles of carbonized poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAAm) through carbonization. The partial carbonized PNIPAAm (F-PNIPAAm) shows reversible capability based on fluorescence intensity.
Kinetics based on the base-catalyzed mechanism of a click reaction between glycol dimercaptoacetate and glycidyl phenyl ether
Authors: Yao Zhen , Dai Bo-en , Yu Yun-fei , Ji Hai-wei , Zhou Li-zhong , Cao Kun
Published: February 2017

The kinetics model of the thiol–epoxy reaction was built, and the parameters of elementary reactions were obtained according to the well-defined base-catalyzed mechanism.
Electrochemiluminescent chemodosimetric probes for sulfide based on cyclometalated Ir(iii) complexes
Authors: Kim Seo-Yeon , Kim Hoon Jun , Hong Jong-In
Published: February 2017

We developed highly sensitive and selective electrochemiluminescent chemodosimetric probes for sulfide.
Electronic structure of cyclodextrin–carbon nanotube composite films
Authors: Jeong Hae Kyung , Echeverria Elena , Chakraborti Priyanka , Le Hien Thi , Dowben P. A.
Published: February 2017

The γ-cyclodextrin–carbon nanotube composite films have the cyclodextrin more localized at the surface than seen for α-cyclodextrin–carbon nanotube composite films.
High volumetric energy density annealed-MXene-nickel oxide/MXene asymmetric supercapacitor
Authors: Xia Qi Xun , Fu Jianjian , Yun Je Moon , Mane Rajaram S. , Kim Kwang Ho
Published: February 2017

A Ti3C2TxMXene electrode decorated with NiO nanosheets was synthesized by a facile and cost-effective hydrothermal method.
Chemical approaches to inhibitors of isoprenoid biosynthesis: targeting farnesyl and geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate synthases
Authors: Merino Pedro , Maiuolo Loredana , Delso Ignacio , Algieri Vincenzo , De Nino Antonio , Tejero Tomas
Published: February 2017

The chemical synthesis of farnesyl and geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate synthase inhibitors are surveyed.
New roles for metal–organic frameworks: fuels for environmentally friendly composites
Authors: Su Hui , Zhang Jichuan , Du Yao , Zhang Pengcheng , Li Shenghua , Fang Tao , Pang Siping
Published: February 2017

A novel type of environmentally friendly composite based on energetic MOFs as a fuel.
A polarized liquid metal worm squeezing across a localized irregular gap
Authors: Yao You-you , Liu Jing
Published: February 2017

The deformation capability of a robot has been a long-term research interest in robotic fields along with developing its controllability and adaptability.
Side-chain modulation of dithienofluorene-based copolymers to achieve high field-effect mobilities
Authors: Lee Chia-Hao , Lai Yu-Ying , Hsu Jhih-Yang , Huang Po-Kai , Cheng Yen-Ju
Published: February 2017

A new polymerPDTFDPP20based on dithieno[3,2-b:6,7-b′]fluorene (DTF) unit was developed. This polymer with a face-on orientation has achieved a high field-effect mobility up to 5 cm2V−1s−1.
Unravelling the mechanisms of vibrational relaxation in solution
Authors: Grubb Michael P. , Coulter Philip M. , Marroux Hugo J. B. , Orr-Ewing Andrew J. , Ashfold Michael N. R.
Published: February 2017

Time resolved vibrational cooling towards equilibrium in perfluorinated and chlorinated solvents provides detailed insights into the transfer of energy between solute and solvent molecules.
Lithium sulfur and lithium oxygen batteries: new frontiers of sustainable energy storage
Authors: Carbone Lorenzo , Greenbaum Steve G. , Hassoun Jusef
Published: February 2017

Lithium sulfur and lithium oxygen batteries are a step forward for sustainable energy storage.
A novel gelatin-guided mesoporous bowknot-like Co3O4 anode material for high-performance lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Du Haoran , Yuan Chao , Huang Kuangfu , Wang Wenhai , Zhang Kai , Geng Baoyou
Published: February 2017

A bowknot-like Co3O4 material has been synthesized via a gelatin-assisted hydrothermal method, which exhibits superior cyclic stability and improved rate capability.
Solution combustion synthesis of highly dispersible and dispersed iridium oxide as an anode catalyst in PEM water electrolysis
Authors: Chourashiya Muralidhar G. , Urakawa Atsushi
Published: February 2017

Highly dispersed and dispersible nano-structured IrO2 made by solution combustion synthesis showed excellent water oxidation performance in PEM water electrolysis.
A versatile stimulus-responsive metal–organic framework for size/morphology tunable hollow mesoporous silica and pH-triggered drug delivery
Authors: Zou Zhen , Li Siqi , He Dinggeng , He Xiaoxiao , Wang Kemin , Li Liling , Yang Xue , Li Haifeng
Published: February 2017

The ZIF-8 is applied for the preparation of size tunable three-dimensional hollow mesoporous silica materials (HMSNs) and used as a novel pore blocker for pH-responsive intracellular drug delivery system by grafting it onto the HMSN.
Environmentally benign fabrication processes for high-performance polymeric semiconductors
Authors: Cho Jangwhan , Yu Seong Hoon , Chung Dae Sung
Published: February 2017

This review reports on the development of polymeric semiconductors through environmentally friendly manufacturing processes, especially for transistor applications.
Mn(iv) and Mn(v)-radical species supported by the redox non-innocent bis(2-amino-3,5-di-tert-butylphenyl)amine pincer ligand
Authors: Leconte Nicolas , Moutet Jules , Herasymchuk Khrystyna , Clarke Ryan M. , Philouze Christian , Luneau Dominique , Storr Tim , Thomas Fabrice
Published: February 2017

The electron-rich pincer ligand 1 has been synthesized and chelated to manganese, affording 2 in high yield. Complex 2 comprises two iminosemiquinone radicals coordinated to a Mn(iv) ion. Its two electron oxidation produces 22+, which is a stable Mn(v)-iminosemiquinone radical complex.
Solvent control of intramolecular proton transfer: is 4-hydroxy-3-(piperidin-1-ylmethyl)-1-naphthaldehyde a proton crane?
Authors: Manolova Y. , Marciniak H. , Tschierlei S. , Fennel F. , Kamounah F. S. , Lochbrunner S. , Antonov L.
Published: February 2017

Short range proton transfer in acetonitrile and no transfer in toluene.
Effect of epoxy monomer structure on the curing process and thermo-mechanical characteristics of tri-functional epoxy/amine systems: a methodology combining atomistic molecular simulation with experimental analyses
Authors: Gao Liang , Zhang Qingjie , Li Hao , Yu Siruo , Zhong Weihong , Sui Gang , Yang Xiaoping
Published: February 2017

A methodology, which combined molecular simulation with experimental research, was established to expound the performance of a tri-functional epoxy/amine system.
Plasmon-induced charge separation: chemistry and wide applications
Authors: Tatsuma Tetsu , Nishi Hiroyasu , Ishida Takuya
Published: February 2017

Electrons transfer from plasmonic nanoparticles to semiconductors by exploiting the energy of light, and this effect is applied to photovoltaics, photocatalysis, sensing, photochromisms, photoswitchable functionalities and nanofabrications.
Detection of polychlorinated benzenes (persistent organic pollutants) by a luminescent sensor based on a lanthanide metal–organic framework
Authors: Wang Lu , Fan Guilan , Xu Xiufang , Chen Diming , Wang Liang , Shi Wei , Cheng Peng
Published: February 2017

An effective luminescent sensor for polychlorinated benzenes based on a new metal–organic framework was reported.
Characterization of Pph3-mediated dephosphorylation of Rad53 during methyl methanesulfonate-induced DNA damage repair in Candida albicans
Authors: Yao Guangyin , Wan Junhua , Liu Qizheng , Mu Chunhua , Wang Yue , Sang Jianli
Published: February 2017

Genotoxic stress causes DNA damage or stalled DNA replication and filamentous growth in the pathogenic fungus Candida albicans. The DNA checkpoint kinase Rad53 critically regulates by phosphorylation effectors that execute the stress response. Rad53 itself is activated by phosphorylation and inactivated by dephosphorylation. Previous studies have suggested that the phosphatase Pph3 dephosphorylates Rad53. Here, we used mass spectrometry and mutagenesis to identify Pph3 dephosphorylation sites on Rad53 in C. albicans. We found that serine residues 351, 461 and 477, which were dephosphorylated in wild-type cells during the recovery from DNA damage caused by methyl methanesulfonate (MMS), remained phosphorylated in pph3Δ/Δ cells. Phosphomimetic mutation of the three residues (rad53-3D) impaired Rad53 dephosphorylation, exit from cell cycle arrest, dephosphorylation of two Rad53 effectors Dun1 and Dbf4, and the filament-to-yeast growth transition during the recovery from MMS-induced DNA damage. The phenotypes observed in the rad53-3D mutant also occurred in the pph3Δ/Δ mutant. Together, our findings reveal a molecular mechanism by which Pph3 controls DNA damage response in C. albicans.
Novel insights into DNA methylation and its critical implications in diabetic vascular complications
Authors: Zheng Jia , Cheng Jing , Zhang Qian , Xiao Xinhua
Published: February 2017

Recent epidemiological and clinical studies have shown that type 2 diabetic patients can develop diabetic vascular complications even after intensive glycaemic control. It has been suggested that this phenomenon could be explained by the hypothesis of ‘metabolic memory’. The underlying mechanisms between these enduring effects and the prior hyperglycaemic state are still not well understood. Preliminary studies demonstrate that hyperglycaemia can regulate gene expression by epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation, which can persistently exist even after glucose normalization. Increasing evidence shows that epigenetic mechanisms may play a substantial role in the pathophysiology of diabetes and its associated vascular complications, including atherosclerosis, diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM), nephropathy and retinopathy. In this review, we will examine the growing role of DNA methylation in diabetes and its vascular complications, thus it can provide critical implications for the early prevention of diabetes and its vascular complications.
Annexin II-binding immunoglobulins in patients with lupus nephritis and their correlation with disease manifestations
Authors: Cheung Kwok Fan , Yung Susan , Chau Mel K.M. , Yap Desmond Y.H. , Chan Kwok Wah , Lee Cheuk Kwong , Tang Colin S.O. , Chan Tak Mao
Published: February 2017

Annexin II on mesangial cell surface mediates the binding of anti-dsDNA antibodies and consequent downstream inflammatory and fibrotic processes. We investigated the clinical relevance of circulating annexin II-binding immunoglobulins (Igs) in patients with severe proliferative lupus nephritis, and renal annexin II expression in relation to progression of nephritis in New Zealand Black and White F1 mice (NZBWF1/J) mice. Annexin II-binding Igs in serum were measured by ELISA. Ultrastructural localization of annexin II was determined by electron microscopy. Seropositivity rates for annexin II-binding IgG and IgM in patients with active lupus nephritis were significantly higher compared with controls (8.9%, 1.3% and 0.9% for annexin II-binding IgG and 11.1%, 4.0% and 1.9% for annexin II-binding IgM for patients with active lupus nephritis, patients with non-lupus renal disease and healthy subjects respectively). In lupus patients, annexin II-binding IgM level was higher at disease flare compared with remission. Annexin II-binding IgG and IgM levels were associated with that of anti-dsDNA and disease activity. Annexin II-binding IgG and IgM levels correlated with histological activity index in lupus nephritis biopsy samples. In NZBWF1/J mice, serum annexin II-binding IgG and IgM levels and glomerular annexin II and p11 expression increased with progression of active nephritis. Annexin II expression was present on mesangial cell surface and in the mesangial matrix, and co-localized with electron-dense deposits along the glomerular basement membrane. Our results show that circulating annexin II-binding IgG and IgM levels are associated with clinical and histological disease activity in proliferative lupus nephritis. The co-localization of annexin II and p11 expression with immune deposition in the kidney suggests pathogenic relevance.
Performance evaluation of loop‐type ground radiation antenna based on its optimum impedance level
Authors: Zahid Z. , Kim H.
Published: February 2017

The performance of a loop‐type ground radiation antenna was analysed based on its impedance level for an arbitrary location on the ground plane. At the corner of the ground plane, the open capacitor configuration (i.e. the PIFA type antenna) shows better performance, whereas the loop‐type antenna with a capacitor and shorted inductor is a better choice at the middle of the ground plane. The optimum value of the impedance level of the antenna determines the antenna performance for an arbitrary location on the ground plane is proposed. The idea was demonstrated using a 10 × 4.5 mm loop‐type antenna, which was fabricated on the 50 × 25 mm ground plane. The design is intended for mobile device applications operating in the Bluetooth band.
Cross‐layer resource optimisation in time‐varying orthogonal frequency division multiple access networks with guaranteed delay
Authors: Guo Yashuang , Yang Qinghai , Park Daeyoung , Kwak Kyung Sup
Published: February 2017

In this study, the authors investigate the delay‐guaranteed resource optimisation in orthogonal frequency division multiple access networks under time‐varying channels and bursty data arrivals. Stochastic optimisation model is employed to minimise the long‐time‐average transmit power consumption (PC) of base station under the constraints of network stability and individual user's delay requirement. They develop a delay‐guaranteed power‐optimal algorithm (DPOA) to obtain the optimal decisions of stochastic optimisation problem. Without prior knowledge of channel statistics and data arrivals, DPOA yields a time‐averaged transmit PC that can arbitrarily approach the theoretical optimum attained by the network with complete knowledge of statistics. Simulations results verify the theoretical analysis on the network performance and show the effectiveness of DPOA.
Low computational complexity design over sparse channel estimator in underwater acoustic OFDM communication system
Authors: Li Chunguo , Song Kang , Yang Luxi
Published: February 2017

The computational complexity required in the channel estimation plays an important role in underwater acoustic communications (UAC) with orthogonal frequency duplex access (OFDM), especially when the channel is sparse. The authors develop an algorithm to carry out the orthogonal matching pursuit (OMP) for the sparse channel estimation based on the compressive sensing, where the goal is to obtain the minimum computational complexity. It is discovered that the inter‐carrier interference (ICI) mainly depends on the adjacent subcarriers since the ICI interferences become more and more marginable with the increase of the distance from the other subcarriers to the current desired subcarrier in the frequency domain, which can be utilised to reduce the complexity of the design over the sparse channel estimator. By exploiting this property, the authors propose that the diagonal band of the ICI channel matrix is employed in the calculation of the objective function to minimise the required computational complexity, which develops an adaptive algorithm that is theoretically proved to be a faster algorithm. Numerical simulations are demonstrated for the typical UAC system that the proposed algorithm achieves the remarkable gain of the computational complexity compared to the existing algorithm.
Anti‐eavesdropping FrFT‐OFDM system exploiting multipath channel characteristics
Authors: Wang Teng , Huan Hao , Tao Ran , Wang Yue
Published: February 2017

This study exploits wireless channel response and fractional Fourier transform (FrFT) to achieve anti‐eavesdropping downlink transmission over a multipath channel. The proposed system works in time‐division duplexing mode, and only the transmitter knows the main channel response through uplink services. With the use of the main channel information, a time‐varying spread‐spectrum orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (TS‐OFDM) subsystem is proposed to realise confidential transform order (TO) transmission, and a security‐enhanced FrFT‐OFDM (SE‐FrFT‐OFDM) subsystem is presented for high‐rate data transmission. The optimal power allocation algorithms that optimise the average secrecy outage capacity of the TS‐OFDM subsystem and the bit error rate performance of the SE‐FrFT‐OFDM subsystem are also provided. Given channel reciprocity and spatial decorrelation, the legitimate user can achieve optimal anti‐multipath fading performance, but the intercepted data symbols will be randomised by both channel fading and TO deviations. To avoid randomisation, the eavesdropper has to test all possible TO combinations of multiple SE‐FrFT‐OFDM symbols, which is usually an impractical task. Compared to other typical methods, the transmitting power of the proposed system can be used more efficiently because the data symbol is not transmitted along with additional interference. Computer simulations are carried out to validate this scheme.
Design of a novel field controlled constant voltage axial flux permanent magnet generator for enhanced wind power extraction
Authors: Saifee Abid H. , Mittal Arvind , Laxminarayan Sriram S. , Singh Manik
Published: February 2017

Wind energy systems with permanent magnet generators, especially axial flux permanent magnet generators (AFPMG), have been quite popularly studied and employed recently. However, a known shortcoming of such systems is that they can operate efficiently only in a very limited range of wind speeds, which corresponds to about 70 to 110% of the rated speed of the generator employed and the energy available outside of this wind speed bracket is not accessed at all, and in fact, wasted. Moreover, the absence of any means of excitation control to maintain a regulated output voltage under varying speed conditions calls for expensive power converters. This study presents a novel methodology to obtain a constant output voltage from an AFPMG under varying wind conditions, through the integration of field poles and their control, along with modifications in stator winding. This significantly enhances the power extraction capability of the system over a much wider operational range (corresponding to 25–125% of the rated speed) while eliminating the requirement of a DC–DC converter to maintain constant output voltage. The details of the design of the constant voltage AFPMG and the results establishing the effectiveness of the methodology have also been presented.
Epstein–Barr Virus-Induced Mononucleosis as an Imitator of Severe Preeclampsia
Authors: Staley S. , Smid Marcela , Dotters-Katz Sarah , Stringer Elizabeth
Published: February 2017

Background In pregnancy, conditions presenting with hematologic abnormalities, transaminitis, and proteinuria pose diagnostic challenges in pregnancy.

Case We present the case of an 18-year-old woman, G1P0, at 33 weeks' gestation with fever of unknown cause, who developed progressively elevated liver enzymes, proteinuria, and thrombocytopenia, due to Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infection.

Conclusion Acute infection with EBV should be included in the differential diagnosis of preeclampsia with severe features, particularly in the setting of fever. Supportive treatment and observation may prevent iatrogenic preterm birth.
New Mitral Annuloplasty Ring Enables Oversizing of Transcatheter Heart Valve and Prevents Central or Paravalvular Leakage
Authors: Sinning Jan-Malte , Welz Armin , Mellert Fritz , Duerr Georg
Published: February 2017

Background Transcatheter valve-in-ring strategies have been developed to treat recurrent mitral regurgitation (MR) after failing surgical annuloplasty. However, suboptimal THV expansion with consecutive paravalvular leakage (PVL) is a procedure-immanent issue.

Methods A rigid, saddle-shaped ring was cut at four locations. The segments were reconnected with pull-springs, rearranged to the original shape, and covered with a sewing cuff. The length of the annuloplasty ring construct, including extended pull-springs, was defined by the perimeter of an appropriate THV. We deployed a Sapien XT within the new ring, expanded it to its maximum extent, and investigated the geometrical changes.

Results Fluoroscopy confirmed oval, saddle-shaped ring before dilation. After THV implantation, the ring segments spread apart and pull-springs were stretched. The extended ring changed its configuration from “oval” to “round” and anchored the THV leaving no paravalvular or central gaps as potential source for PVL.

Conclusion We developed an expandable annuloplasty ring that is perfectly concerted to THV implantation. This proof-of-concept study revealed no PVL and good oversizing ability that might impact future annuloplasty ring design. Further studies have to evaluate durability and device safety.
Surgical Removal of Circumferentially Leaked Polymethyl Methacrylate in the Epidural Space of the Thoracic Spine after Percutaneous Vertebroplasty
Authors: Kita Kenichiro , Takata Yoichiro , Higashino Kosaku , Yamashita Kazuta , Tezuka Fumitake , Sakai Toshinori , Nagamachi Akihiro , Sairyo Koichi
Published: February 2017

Background The major complication of percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) using polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) is epidural leakage of PMMA that damages the spinal cord.

Methods This is a case report.

Result A 77-year-old man presented to our institution with a 6-month history of muscle weakness and an intolerable burning sensation of both lower limbs after PVP with PMMA for thoracic compression fracture at T7 at another hospital. His past medical history was significant for hypertension. He had no history of smoking and alcohol. Computed tomography revealed massive leakage of PMMA into the T6 and T7 spinal canal circumferentially surrounding the spinal cord that caused marked encroachment of the thecal sac. Magnetic resonance images revealed cord compression and intramedullary signal change from T6 to T7 level. After we verified that the leaked PMMA could be easily detached from the dura mater in the cadaveric lumbar spine, surgical decompression and removal of epidural PMMA was performed. The leaked PMMA was carefully thinned down with a high-speed diamond burr. Eight pieces of PMMA were detached from the dura mater easily without causing a dural tear. No neurologic deterioration was observed in the postoperative period. The burning sensation resolved, but the muscle weakness remained unchanged. One and a half years postoperatively, the muscle weakness has improved to ⅘ on the manual muscle strength test, but he could not walk without an aid because of spasticity.

Conclusion This report demonstrates the catastrophic epidural extrusion of PMMA following PVP. Extravasated PMMA can be removed through a working space created by means of laminectomy and subtraction of the affected pedicle. Spine surgeons should recognize the possible neurologic complications of PVP and be prepared to treat them using suitable approaches.
Neurotrauma in Old Aged: A Study from India
Authors: Munivenkatappa Ashok , Kumar Vineet , Bhandarkar Prashant , Roy Nobhojit , Kamble Jyoti , Agrawal Amit
Published: February 2017

Introduction Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is common in all the age groups. In India with increased life expectancy and more active old-aged population, basic details of neurotrauma in old aged are limited. The aim of the present study is to determine injury pattern and factors influencing outcome of the neurotrauma in old-aged patients, and also to contribute to national trauma data.

Methods The study is based on prospective observational registry Towards Improved Trauma Care Outcomes (TITCO) database collected from four Indian government hospitals during October 1, 2013 to September 30, 2015. Data of neurotrauma patients aged 60 years or older were considered for analysis. SPSS version 24.0 was used for statistical analysis. The chi-square test was used for comparison of categorical data with significance level of p < 0.05.

Results Old-aged patients contributed for 1,629 (10.2%) of total neurotrauma data. Men were 2.4 times higher than women, but mortality was almost same in both the sexes. Approximately 860 (53%) of injuries were due to falls and 490 (30%) due to road traffic accidents (RTA). Approximately 708 (44%) of subjects patients had moderate to severe brain injuries. Approximately 1,136 (70%) of patients required CT scan and 435 (27%) of patients underwent brain surgery. Approximately 588 (36%) of patients expired during study period. There was significant (p = 0.0001) difference between mortality of old-aged and productive age group (19–59 years). The deaths between the two groups differed significantly (p = 0.0001) among sex, injury cause, severity, requirement of CT scan, and surgery.

Conclusion Our study highlights that geriatric TBI is a significant phenomenon and reflects our national data. Possible risk factors associated with deaths are identified in our population. More research is needed to develop specific management and preventive protocols.
Gastric ESD may be useful as accurate staging and decision of future therapeutic strategy
Authors: Fujimoto Ai , Goto Osamu , Nishizawa Toshihiro , Ochiai Yasutoshi , Horii Joichiro , Maehata Tadateru , Akimoto Teppei , Kinoshita Satoshi , Sagara Seiji , Sasaki Motoki , Uraoka Toshio , Yahagi Naohisa
Published: February 2017

Background and study aims We sometimes perform gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for total pathologic diagnosis when preoperative diagnosis is difficult. In the present study we analyzed the treatment outcomes and adverse events of diagnostic ESD for early gastric cancer (EGC).

Patients and methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of 18 consecutive cases of EGC in 18 patients with a suspected out-of-indication diagnosis who underwent diagnostic ESD, between June 2010 and November 2014. The following parameters were examined: the average length of the longer axis of the lesion; the procedure time; the rates of en bloc resection (ER), complete en bloc resection (CER), and curative resection (CR) as treatment outcomes; and the rates of perforation, delayed bleeding, aspiration pneumonia, disease-related death, and emergency surgery as adverse events.

Results The treatment outcomes were as follows: average length of the longer axis of the lesion, 27.4 ± 10.0 mm; procedure time, 87.0 ± 43.1 minutes; ER rate, 18/18 (100.0 %); CER rate, 13/18 (72.2 %); CR rate, 4/18 (22.2 %). CR rate was achieved 37.5 % for the lesions which preoperative diagnosis was more than 30 mm (> 30 mm) in diameter differentiated type with mucosal layer/submucosal layer 1 invasion and ulceration positive. The adverse events (AEs) were perforation in 1 of 18 (5.5 %) patients and delayed bleeding in 1 of 18 (5.5 %). There were no other AEs.

Conclusions Diagnostic ESD may be acceptable for future therapeutic strategy when we unconfirmed the pre ESD diagnosis because of lower rate of adverse events and high rate of ER.
Bildgebung der intraskleralen Kammerwasserabflusswege – neue Einblicke für die Trabekelwerkschirurgie
Authors: van Oterendorp C.
Published: February 2017

Die Kammerwasserabflusswege distal des Trabekelmaschenwerks (TMW) sind in den letzten Jahren zunehmend in den Fokus der Forschung geraten. Sie umfassen den Schlemm-Kanal, die Kollektorkanäle sowie den intraskleralen Venenplexus. Ihr Beitrag zum gesamten Abflusswiderstand des Kammerwassers wird auf 25–50 % geschätzt. Mit der zunehmenden Anwendung (minimalinvasiver) Trabekelwerkschirurgie kommt den distalen Abflusswegen eine besondere Bedeutung zu. Sie beeinflussen maßgeblich den nach chirurgischer Eröffnung des TMW erreichbaren intraokularen Druck. Die morphologische und funktionelle Darstellung der distalen Abflusswege ist wegen ihrer teils tief intraskleralen Lage und des geringen Gefäßdurchmessers eine besondere Herausforderung. In diesem Artikel werden Fortschritte in der OCT-Bildgebung, der Fluoreszenzkanalografie sowie neue Ansätze, wie OCT-Kontrastmittel und MRT-Flussmessungen, vorgestellt. Zusammen mit klinischen Daten unterstützen sie das Paradigma eines sektoriell unterschiedlichen Abflusses. Die verbesserten Bildgebungsmodalitäten bieten zudem die Perspektive einer prä- oder intraoperativen Diagnostik, um mit der Trabekelwerkschirurgie gezielt an Bereichen, die eine Abflusssteigerung versprechen, anzusetzen.