bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mutual inhibition between PTEN and PIP3 generates bistability for polarity in motile cells
Authors: Matsuoka Satomi , Ueda Masahiro
Published: October 2018

Phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate (PIP3) and PIP3 phosphatase (PTEN) are enriched mutually exclusively on the anterior and posterior membranes of eukaryotic motile cells. However, the mechanism that causes this spatial separation between the two molecules is unknown. Here we develop a method to manipulate PIP3 levels in living cells and used it to show PIP3 suppresses the membrane localization of PTEN. Single-molecule measurements of membrane-association and -dissociation kinetics and of lateral diffusion reveal that PIP3 suppresses the PTEN binding site required for stable PTEN membrane binding. Mutual inhibition between PIP3 and PTEN provides a mechanistic basis for bistability that creates a PIP3-enriched/PTEN-excluded state and a PTEN-enriched/PIP3-excluded state underlying the strict spatial separation between PIP3 and PTEN. The PTEN binding site also mediates the suppression of PTEN membrane localization in chemotactic signaling. These results illustrate that the PIP3-PTEN bistable system underlies a cell’s decision-making for directional movement irrespective of the environment.
Deconvolution of octahedral Pt3Ni nanoparticle growth pathway from in situ characterizations
Authors: Shen Xiaochen , Zhang Changlin , Zhang Shuyi , Dai Sheng , Zhang Guanghui , Ge Mingyuan , Pan Yanbo , Sharkey Stephen M. , Graham George W. , Hunt Adrian , Waluyo Iradwikanari , Miller Jeffrey T. , Pan Xiaoqing , Peng Zhenmeng
Published: October 2018

Understanding the growth pathway of faceted alloy nanoparticles at the atomic level is crucial to morphology control and property tuning. Yet, it remains a challenge due to complexity of the growth process and technical limits of modern characterization tools. We report a combinational use of multiple cutting-edge in situ techniques to study the growth process of octahedral Pt3Ni nanoparticles, which reveal the particle growth and facet formation mechanisms. Our studies confirm the formation of octahedral Pt3Ni initiates from Pt nuclei generation, which is followed by continuous Pt reduction that simultaneously catalyzes Ni reduction, resulting in mixed alloy formation with moderate elemental segregation. Carbon monoxide molecules serve as a facet formation modulator and induce Ni segregation to the surface, which inhibits the (111) facet growth and causes the particle shape to evolve from a spherical cluster to an octahedron as the (001) facet continues to grow.
Non-catalytic signaling by pseudokinase ILK for regulating cell adhesion
Authors: Vaynberg Julia , Fukuda Koichi , Lu Fan , Bialkowska Katarzyna , Chen Yinghua , Plow Edward F. , Qin Jun
Published: October 2018

Dynamic communication between integrin-containing complexes (focal adhesions, FAs) and actin filaments is critical for regulating cell adhesion. Pseudokinase ILK plays a key role in this process but the underlying mechanism remains highly elusive. Here we show that by recruiting FA adaptors PINCH and Parvin into a heterotrimeric complex (IPP), ILK triggers F-actin filament bundling – a process known to generate force/mechanical signal to promote cytoskeleton reassembly and dynamic cell adhesion. Structural, biochemical, and functional analyses revealed that the F-actin bundling is orchestrated by two previously unrecognized WASP-Homology-2 actin binding motifs within IPP, one from PINCH and the other from Parvin. Strikingly, this process is also sensitized to Mg-ATP bound to the pseudoactive site of ILK and its dysregulation severely impairs stress fibers formation, cell spreading, and migration. These data identify a crucial mechanism for ILK, highlighting its uniqueness as a pseudokinase to transduce non-catalytic signal and regulate cell adhesion.
An optical reaction micro-turbine
Authors: Bianchi Silvio , Vizsnyiczai Gaszton , Ferretti Stefano , Maggi Claudio , Di Leonardo Roberto
Published: October 2018

To any energy flow there is an associated flow of momentum, so that recoil forces arise every time an object absorbs or deflects incoming energy. This same principle governs the operation of macroscopic turbines as well as that of microscopic turbines that use light as the working fluid. However, a controlled and precise redistribution of optical energy is not easy to achieve at the micron scale resulting in a low efficiency of power to torque conversion. Here we use direct laser writing to fabricate 3D light guiding structures, shaped as a garden sprinkler, that can precisely reroute input optical power into multiple output channels. The shape parameters are derived from a detailed theoretical analysis of losses in curved microfibers. These optical reaction micro-turbines can maximally exploit light’s momentum to generate a strong, uniform and controllable torque.
High-power hybrid biofuel cells using layer-by-layer assembled glucose oxidase-coated metallic cotton fibers
Authors: Kwon Cheong Hoon , Ko Yongmin , Shin Dongyeeb , Kwon Minseong , Park Jinho , Bae Wan Ki , Lee Seung Woo , Cho Jinhan
Published: October 2018

Electrical communication between an enzyme and an electrode is one of the most important factors in determining the performance of biofuel cells. Here, we introduce a glucose oxidase-coated metallic cotton fiber-based hybrid biofuel cell with efficient electrical communication between the anodic enzyme and the conductive support. Gold nanoparticles are layer-by-layer assembled with small organic linkers onto cotton fibers to form metallic cotton fibers with extremely high conductivity (>2.1×104 S cm−1), and are used as an enzyme-free cathode as well as a conductive support for the enzymatic anode. For preparation of the anode, the glucose oxidase is sequentially layer-by-layer-assembled with the same linkers onto the metallic cotton fibers. The resulting biofuel cells exhibit a remarkable power density of 3.7 mW cm−2, significantly outperforming conventional biofuel cells. Our strategy to promote charge transfer through electrodes can provide an important tool to improve the performance of biofuel cells.
Integrative taxonomy resolves taxonomic uncertainty for freshwater mussels being considered for protection under the U.S. Endangered Species Act
Authors: Johnson Nathan A. , Smith Chase H. , Pfeiffer John M. , Randklev Charles R. , Williams James D. , Austin James D.
Published: October 2018

Objectively delimiting species boundaries remains an important challenge in systematics and becomes urgent when unresolved taxonomy complicates conservation and recovery efforts. We examined species boundaries in the imperiled freshwater mussel genus Cyclonaias (Bivalvia: Unionidae) using morphometrics, molecular phylogenetics, and multispecies coalescent models to help guide pending conservation assessments and legislative decisions. Congruence across multiple lines of evidence indicated that current taxonomy overestimates diversity in the C. pustulosa species complex. The only genetically and morphologically diagnosable species in the C. pustulosa species complex were C. pustulosa and C. succissa and we consider C. aurea, C. houstonensis, C. mortoni, and C. refulgens to be synonyms of C. pustulosa. In contrast, all three species in the C. nodulata complex (C. necki, C. nodulata, and C. petrina) were genetically, geographically, and morphologically diagnosable. Our findings have important conservation and management implications, as three nominal species (C. aurea, C. houstonensis, and C. petrina) are being considered for protection under the Endangered Species Act.
Behavioral flexibility promotes collective consistency in a social insect
Authors: Garrison Linda Karen , Kleineidam Christoph Johannes , Weidenmüller Anja
Published: October 2018

Deciphering the mechanisms that integrate individuals and their behavior into a functional unit is crucial for our understanding of collective behaviors. We here present empirical evidence for the impressive strength of social processes in this integration. We investigated collective temperature homeostasis in bumblebee (Bombus terrestris) colonies and found that bees are less likely to engage in thermoregulatory fanning and do so with less time investment when confronted with heat stress in a group setting than when facing the same challenge alone and that this down-regulation of individual stimulus-response behavior resulted in a consistent proportion of workers in a group engaged in the task of fanning. Furthermore, the bees that comprised the subset of fanning individuals changed from trial to trial and participation in the task was predominately unpredictable based on previous response behavior. Our results challenge basic assumptions in the most commonly used class of models for task allocation and contrast numerous collective behavior studies that emphasize the importance of fixed inter-individual variation for the functioning of animal groups. We demonstrate that bumblebee colonies maintain within-group behavioral heterogeneity and a consistent collective response pattern based on social responsiveness and behavioral flexibility at the individual level.
Solid-phase enzyme catalysis of DNA end repair and 3′ A-tailing reduces GC-bias in next-generation sequencing of human genomic DNA
Authors: Zhang Aihua , Li Shaohua , Apone Lynne , Sun Xiaoli , Chen Lixin , Ettwiller Laurence M. , Langhorst Bradley W. , Noren Christopher J. , Xu Ming-Qun
Published: October 2018

The use of next-generation sequencing (NGS) has been instrumental in advancing biological research and clinical diagnostics. To fully utilize the power of NGS, complete, uniform coverage of the entire genome is required. In this study, we identified the primary sources of bias observed in sequence coverage across AT-rich regions of the human genome with existing amplification-free DNA library preparation methods. We have found evidence that a major source of bias is the inefficient processing of AT-rich DNA in end repair and 3′ A-tailing, causing under-representation of extremely AT-rich regions. We have employed immobilized DNA modifying enzymes to catalyze end repair and 3′ A-tailing reactions, to notably reduce the GC bias observed with existing library construction methods.
Acceleration-induced pressure gradients and cavitation in soft biomaterials
Authors: Kang Wonmo , Raphael Marc
Published: October 2018

The transient, dynamic response of soft materials to mechanical impact has become increasingly relevant due to the emergence of numerous biomedical applications, e.g., accurate assessment of blunt injuries to the human body. Despite these important implications, acceleration-induced pressure gradients in soft materials during impact and the corresponding material response, from small deformations to sudden bubble bursts, are not fully understood. Both through experiments and theoretical analyses, we empirically show, using collagen and agarose model systems, that the local pressure in a soft sample is proportional to the square of the sample depth in the impact direction. The critical acceleration that corresponds to bubble bursts increases with increasing gel stiffness. Bubble bursts are also highly sensitive to the initial bubble size, e.g., bubble bursts can occur only when the initial bubble diameter is smaller than a critical size (≈10 μm). Our study gives fundamental insight into the physics of injury mechanisms, from blunt trauma to cavitation-induced brain injury.
Author Correction: Weighing Scale-Based Pulse Transit Time is a Superior Marker of Blood Pressure than Conventional Pulse Arrival Time
Authors: Martin Stephanie L.-O. , Carek Andrew M. , Kim Chang-Sei , Ashouri Hazar , Inan Omer T. , Hahn Jin-Oh , Mukkamala Ramakrishna
Published: October 2018

A correction has been published and is appended to both the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has not been fixed in the paper.
GBS-derived SNP catalogue unveiled wide genetic variability and geographical relationships of Italian olive cultivars
Authors: D’Agostino Nunzio , Taranto Francesca , Camposeo Salvatore , Mangini Giacomo , Fanelli Valentina , Gadaleta Susanna , Miazzi Monica Marilena , Pavan Stefano , di Rienzo Valentina , Sabetta Wilma , Lombardo Luca , Zelasco Samanta , Perri Enzo , Lotti Concetta , Ciani Elena , Montemurro Cinzia
Published: October 2018

Information on the distribution of genetic variation is essential to preserve olive germplasm from erosion and to recover alleles lost through selective breeding. In addition, knowledge on population structure and genotype–phenotype associations is crucial to support modern olive breeding programs that must respond to new environmental conditions imposed by climate change and novel biotic/abiotic stressors. To further our understanding of genetic variation in the olive, we performed genotype-by-sequencing on a panel of 94 Italian olive cultivars. A reference-based and a reference-independent SNP calling pipeline generated 22,088 and 8,088 high-quality SNPs, respectively. Both datasets were used to model population structure via parametric and non parametric clustering. Although the two pipelines yielded a 3-fold difference in the number of SNPs, both described wide genetic variability among our study panel and allowed individuals to be grouped based on fruit weight and the geographical area of cultivation. Multidimensional scaling analysis on identity-by-state allele-sharing values as well as inference of population mixtures from genome-wide allele frequency data corroborated the clustering pattern we observed. These findings allowed us to formulate hypotheses about geographical relationships of Italian olive cultivars and to confirm known and uncover novel cases of synonymy.
Allostatic load and disordered white matter microstructure in overweight adults
Authors: Ottino-González J. , Jurado M. A. , García-García I. , Segura B. , Marqués-Iturria I. , Sender-Palacios M. J. , Tor E. , Prats-Soteras X. , Caldú X. , Junqué C. , Pasternak O. , Garolera M.
Published: October 2018

Overweight and stress are both related to brain structural abnormalities. The allostatic load model states that frequent disruption of homeostasis is inherently linked to oxidative stress and inflammatory responses that in turn can damage the brain. However, the effects of the allostatic load on the central nervous system remain largely unknown. The current study aimed to assess the relationship between the allostatic load and the composition of whole-brain white matter tracts in overweight subjects. Additionally, we have also tested for grey matter changes regarding allostatic load increase. Thirty-one overweight-to-obese adults and 21 lean controls participated in the study. Our results showed that overweight participants presented higher allostatic load indexes. Such increases correlated with lower fractional anisotropy in the inferior fronto-occipital fasciculi and the right anterior corona radiata, as well as with grey matter reductions in the left precentral gyrus, the left lateral occipital gyrus, and the right pars opercularis. These results suggest that an otherwise healthy overweight status is linked to long-term biological changes potentially harmful to the brain.
Non-reassuring foetal status and neonatal irritability in the Japan Environment and Children’s Study: A cohort study
Authors: Morokuma Seiichi , Michikawa Takehiro , Kato Kiyoko , Sanefuji Masafumi , Shibata Eiji , Tsuji Mayumi , Senju Ayako , Kawamoto Toshihiro , Ohga Shouichi , Kusuhara Koichi
Published: October 2018

The aim of this study was to investigate whether non-reassuring foetal status (NRFS) affected an infant’s temperament, or if the temperament formed prenatally resulted in an excessive heart rate reaction that was diagnosed as NRFS. We examined the correlation between NRFS and difficulty in holding a baby, and the amount of crying in the one month after birth, which was considered an indicator of the newborn’s temperament. We divided the cases with NRFS into positive NRFS and false positive NRFS. NRFS was associated with bad mood, frequent crying for a long duration, and intense crying. After adjustment for other covariates, NRFS was associated with bad mood (odds ratio, OR = 1.15, 95% confidence interval, CI = 1.00–1.33), and intense crying (1.12, 1.02–1.24). In the multi-variable model, positive and false positive NRFS were not clearly associated with neonatal irritability. When stratified by parity, NRFS and false positive NRFS were likely to be positively associated with neonatal irritability in parous women. The clear association between NRFS and intense crying was observed in parous women (multi-variable adjusted OR = 1.46, 95% CI = 1.16–1.83), but not in nulliparae (1.01, 0.91–1.12) (p for effect modification <0.01). Similarly, increased odds of intense crying associated with false positive NRFS were only found in parous women (multi-variable adjusted OR = 1.40, 95% CI = 1.09–1.81) (p for effect modification = 0.03). There was no association observed between positive NRFS and irritability; therefore, NRFS has no effect on an infant’s temperament.
Surveillance of CKD epidemiology in the US – a joint analysis of NHANES and KEEP
Authors: Myers O. B. , Pankratz V. S. , Norris K. C. , Vassalotti J. A. , Unruh M. L. , Argyropoulos C.
Published: October 2018

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), is highly prevalent in the United States. Epidemiological systems for surveillance of CKD rely on data that are based solely on the NHANES survey, which does not include many patients with the most severe and less frequent forms of CKD. We investigated the feasibility of estimating CKD prevalence from the large-scale community disease detection Kidney Early Evaluation and Program (KEEP, n = 127,149). We adopted methodologies from the field of web surveys to address the self-selection bias inherent in KEEP. Primary outcomes studied were CKD Stage 3–5 (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] <60 mL/min/1.73 m2, and CKD Stage 4-5 (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m2). The unweighted prevalence of Stage 4-5 CKD was higher in KEEP (1.00%, 95%CI: 0.94–1.05%) than in NHANES (0.51%, 95% CI: 0.43–0.59%). Application of a selection model that used  variables related to demographics, recruitment and socio-economic factors resulted in estimates similar to NHANES (0.55%, 95% CI: 0.50–0.60%). Weighted prevalence of Stages 3–5 CKD in KEEP was 6.45% (95% CI: 5.70–7.28%) compared to 6.73% (95% CI: 6.30–7.19%) for NHANES. Application of methodologies that address the self-selection bias in the KEEP program may allow the use of this large, geographically diverse dataset for CKD surveillance.
The mitochondrial antioxidant SS-31 increases SIRT1 levels and ameliorates inflammation, oxidative stress and leukocyte-endothelium interactions in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Escribano-Lopez Irene , Diaz-Morales Noelia , Iannantuoni Francesca , Lopez-Domenech Sandra , de Marañon Aranzazu M , Abad-Jimenez Zaida , Bañuls Celia , Rovira-Llopis Susana , Herance Jose R , Rocha Milagros , Victor Victor M
Published: October 2018

There is growing focus on mitochondrial impairment and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) in type 2 diabetes (T2D), and the development of novel therapeutic strategies in this context. It is unknown whether mitochondrial-targeting antioxidants such as SS-31 protect sufficiently against oxidative damage in diabetes. We aimed to evaluate if SS-31 modulates SIRT1 levels and ameliorates leukocyte-endothelium interactions, oxidative stress and inflammation in T2D patients. Anthropometric and metabolic parameters were studied in 51 T2D patients and 57 controls. Production of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial membrane potential, glutathione content, leukocyte-endothelium interactions, NFκB-p65, TNFα and SIRT1 levels was measured in leukocytes treated or not with SS-31. We observed increased mitochondrial ROS production that was restored by SS-31 treatment. SS-31 also increased mitochondrial membrane potential, glutathione content, SIRT1 levels and leukocyte rolling velocity and reduced rolling flux and adhesion in T2D patients. NFκB-p65 and TNFα, which were enhanced in diabetic patients, were also reduced by SS-31 treatment. Our results reveal that SS-31 exerts beneficial effects on the leukocytes of T2D patients by reducing oxidative stress, leukocyte-endothelium interactions, NFκB and TNFα and by increasing SIRT1 levels. These actions support its use as a potential agent against CVD risk.
Vigorous Intervals and Hypoglycemia in Type 1 Diabetes: A Randomized Cross Over Trial
Authors: Rempel Meaghan , Yardley Jane E. , MacIntosh Andrea , Hay Jacqueline L. , Bouchard Danielle , Cornish Stephen , Marks Seth D. , Hai Yan , Gordon Joseph W. , McGavock Jonathan
Published: October 2018

Adding vigorous-intensity intervals (VII) to moderate-intensity exercise prevents immediate declines in blood glucose in type 1 diabetes (T1D) however the intensity required to minimize post-exercise hypoglycemia is unknown. To examine this question, ten sedentary T1D individuals completed four treadmill exercise sessions: a control session of 45 minutes of walking at 45–55% of heart rate reserve (HRR) and three sessions consisting of 60 seconds (VII) at 70%, 80%, or 90% of HRR every 4 minutes during exercise at 45–55% of HRR. We used continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) to measure time ≤3.9 mmol/L, glucose variability, hypoglycemia frequency and area under the curve (AUC) for hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia for 12 hours post-exercise. We also examined growth hormone and cortisol responses during and following exercise. In the 12 hours post-exercise, the percentage of time ≤3.9 mmol/L, glucose variability, and AUC for hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia were similar across conditions. The frequency of hypoglycemic events was highest after the 90% intervals compared to the control arm (12 vs 3 events, p = 0.03). There was a trend towards elevated growth hormone with increasing exercise intensity but cortisol levels were similar across conditions. Adding VII to moderate intensity exercise may increase hypoglycemia risk at higher intensities.
Characterization of mixed-ligand shells on gold nanoparticles by transition metal and supramolecular surface probes
Authors: Nilam Mohamed , Ahmed Mostafa , Alnajjar Mohammad A. , Hennig Andreas
Published: October 2018

Two simple colorimetric and fluorimetric methods to probe the surface of gold nanoparticles.
Graphene oxide–phenalenyl composite: transition metal-free recyclable and catalytic C–H functionalization
Authors: Singh Bhagat , Paira Rupankar , Biswas Goutam , Shaw Bikash Kumar , Mandal Swadhin K.
Published: October 2018

A transition metal-free C–H functionalization of aryl/heteroaryl iodides was achieved using a heterogeneous graphene oxide–phenalenyl composite, with broad substrate scope and high reusability.
Separation-cooperated assembly of liquid photonic crystals from polydisperse particles
Authors: Chen Yun , Zhang Changbo , Zheng Qingfeng , Chen Yi
Published: October 2018

Separation-cooperated assembly of polydisperse particles can easily form high-quality photonic crystals and/or produce homogeneous particles for direct writing and painting.
Weak, bidentate chelating group assisted cross-coupling of C(sp3)–H bonds in aliphatic acid derivatives with aryltrifluoroborates
Authors: Cai Zhihua , Li Shangda , Gao Yuzhen , Fu Lei , Li Gang
Published: October 2018

A novel weak, bidentate directing group enabled β-C(sp3)–H cross-coupling of aliphatic acids that contain α-hydrogen atoms with organoboron reagents.
Regioisomeric cryptand stabilized gold supraspheres and elongated dodecahedron supraparticles for reversible host–guest chemistry
Authors: Saini Meenaxi , Verma Ashish , Tomar Kapil , Bharadwaj Parimal K. , Sadhu Kalyan K.
Published: October 2018

Addition of cryptand regioisomers 1 and 2 to AuNPs produces supraspheres and elongated dodecahedron supraparticles, respectively, apposite for host–guest chemistry.
Alzheimer's amyloid-beta intermediates generated using polymer-nanodiscs
Authors: Sahoo Bikash R. , Genjo Takuya , Bekier Michael , Cox Sarah J. , Stoddard Andrea K. , Ivanova Magdalena , Yasuhara Kazuma , Fierke Carol A. , Wang Yanzhuang , Ramamoorthy Ayyalusamy
Published: October 2018

Polymethacrylate-copolymer (PMA) encased lipid-nanodiscs modulate Aβ1–40 aggregation and neurotoxicity.
Ammonia-free high temperature metalorganic vapor phase epitaxy (AFHT-MOVPE): a new approach to high quality AlN growth
Authors: Shen Xu-Qiang , Kojima Kazutoshi , Shimizu Mitsuaki , Okumura Hajime
Published: October 2018

We propose a new growth technique, ammonia-free high temperature metalorganic vapor phase epitaxy (AFHT-MOVPE), for high quality AlN growth.
Reduced structural flexibility for an exonuclease deficient DNA polymerase III mutant
Authors: Gahlon Hailey L. , Walker Alice R. , Cisneros G. Andrés , Lamers Meindert H. , Rueda David S.
Published: October 2018

DNA synthesis, carried out by DNA polymerases, requires balancing speed and accuracy for faithful replication of the genome.
A combined experimental and theoretical study of optical rotatory dispersion for (R)-glycidyl methyl ether in aqueous solution
Authors: Egidi Franco , Giovannini Tommaso , Del Frate Gianluca , Lemler Paul M. , Vaccaro Patrick H. , Cappelli Chiara
Published: October 2018

We present a theoretical-experimental study of the optical rotation of (R)-glycidylmethylether using a mixed quantum-classical model for solvent effects.
Understanding gold nanoparticle dissolution in cyanide-containing solution via impact-chemistry
Authors: Suherman Alex L. , Zampardi Giorgia , Kuss Sabine , Tanner Eden E. L. , Amin Hatem M. A. , Young Neil P. , Compton Richard G.
Published: October 2018

The electrochemical dissolution of citrate-capped gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) was studied in cyanide (CN−) containing solutions.
General existence of flexural mode doublets in nanowires targeting vectorial sensing applications
Authors: Zheng Zhuoqun , Zhan Haifei , Nie Yihan , Bo Arixin , Xu Xu , Gu Yuantong
Published: October 2018

Generally existing flexural mode doublets in silicon nanowires.
Crystal plane dependent dopant migration that boosts catalytic oxidation
Authors: Wang Ruixue , Wei Jingjing , Wei Huiying , Yang Yanzhao
Published: October 2018

CeO2 rods with {110} facets and cubes with {100} facets were utilized as catalyst supports to probe the effect of crystallographic facets on the iron species and the structure-dependent catalytic performance.
Multifunctional Zn–Al layered double hydroxides for surface-enhanced Raman scattering and surface-enhanced infrared absorption
Authors: Zhang Yiyue , Zhang Liangjing , Hu Liang , Huang Shaolong , Jin Zhengyuan , Zhang Min , Huang Xiaoyong , Lu Jianguo , Ruan Shuangchen , Zeng Yu-Jia
Published: October 2018

Zn–Al layered double hydroxides for SERS and SEIRA.
Two-step startup improves pollutant removal in membrane-aerated biofilm reactors treating high-strength nitrogenous wastewater
Authors: Wang Rongchang , Zeng Xu , Wang Yanan , Yu Tong , Lewandowski Zbigniew
Published: October 2018

MABRs with a two-step startup facilitate the formation of layered distribution of nitrifiers and denitrifiers and have higher pollutant removal rates.
Real-time detection of the interaction between alpha-fetoprotein and its ssDNA aptamer by dual polarization interferometry
Authors: Shao Chenggang , Liu Yuxin , Qi Jinxia , Su Yu , Chen Yonghui , Xu Huaguo , Lin Zhenkun , Guan Huaqin
Published: October 2018

A real-time and label-free strategy to understand the interaction between biomarkers and ssDNA aptamers.
Facile synthesis of Ni11(HPO3)8(OH)6/rGO nanorods with enhanced electrochemical performance for aluminum-ion batteries
Authors: Tu Jiguo , Lei Haiping , Wang Mingyong , Yu Zhijing , Jiao Shuqiang
Published: October 2018

A route to the large-scale synthesis of ultrashort nickel phosphite nanorods supported on reduced graphene oxide (Ni11(HPO3)8(OH)6/rGO nanorods) is presented. And the reversible reaction mechanism has been confirmed by utilizing the redox reaction of Al3+.
An ultraviolet and electric field activated photopolymer–ferroelectric nanoparticle composite for the performance enhancement of triboelectric nanogenerators
Authors: Shin Sung-Ho , Park Daehoon , Jung Joo-Yun , Park Pangun , Nah Junghyo
Published: October 2018

For the development of high performance triboelectric generators (TENGs), it is required to have facile methods to adjust the triboelectric properties of the friction surfaces.
An artificial intelligence atomic force microscope enabled by machine learning
Authors: Huang Boyuan , Li Zhenghao , Li Jiangyu
Published: October 2018

An AI-AFM is capable of classification, feature identification, and adaptive experimentation, all without human interference.
Iridium-catalyzed [4 + 2] annulation of 1-arylindazolones with α-diazo carbonyl compounds: access to indazolone-fused cinnolines
Authors: Mahesha Chikkagundagal K. , Agarwal Devesh S. , Karishma Pidiyara , Markad Datta , Mandal Sanjay K. , Sakhuja Rajeev
Published: October 2018

An Ir-catalyzed tandem strategy for the synthesis of indazolone-fused cinnolines by [4 + 2] annulation of 1-arylindazolones with α-diazo carbonyl compounds.
Visible light-promoted difluoromethylthiolation of aryldiazonium salts
Authors: Wang Wengui , Zhang Shuxiang , Zhao Huaiqing , Wang Shoufeng
Published: October 2018

Difluoromethylthiolation of aryldiazonium salts under mild conditions using a shelf-stable reagent (PhSO2SCF2H) was reported.
Reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) as a powerful tool to characterise complex water-soluble copolymer architectures
Authors: Peltier Raoul , Bialek Agnieszka , Kuroki Agnès , Bray Caroline , Martin Liam , Perrier Sébastien
Published: October 2018

A novel analytical method, based on RP-HPLC, for the characterisation of monomer distribution in charged water-soluble copolymers.
A multidimensional In2S3–CuInS2 heterostructure for photocatalytic carbon dioxide reduction
Authors: Yang Jinman , Zhu Xingwang , Mo Zhao , Yi Jianjian , Yan Jia , Deng Jiujun , Xu Yuanguo , She Yuanbin , Qian Junchao , Xu Hui , Li Huaming
Published: October 2018

A multidimensional heterostructured In2S3–CuInS2 photocatalyst was fabricated to convert CO2 to CO with promising CO generation.
Hierarchical porous NiCo2O4/CeO2 hybrid materials for high performance supercapacitors
Authors: Wei Chengzhen , Zhang Rui , Zheng Xuan , Ru Qinglong , Chen Qingyun , Cui Can , Li Gang , Zhang Daojun
Published: October 2018

Hierarchical porous NiCo2O4/CeO2 hybrid materials are successfully synthesized via a simple solvothermal method and subsequent heat treatment and exhibit remarkable electrochemical performances in supercapacitors.
A colorless semi-aromatic polyimide derived from a sterically hindered bromine-substituted dianhydride exhibiting dual fluorescence and phosphorescence emission
Authors: Kanosue Kenta , Hirata Shuzo , Vacha Martin , Augulis Ramūnas , Gulbinas Vidmantas , Ishige Ryohei , Ando Shinji
Published: October 2018

A colorless and thermally stable polyimide film exhibiting dual fluorescence and phosphorescence emission promising for solar spectral down-converters.
Effect of Ling-Gui-Zhu-Gan decoction major components on the plasma protein binding of metoprolol using UPLC analysis coupled with ultrafiltration
Authors: Zhou Peng , Huang Jinling , Ding Wanxue
Published: October 2018

Using traditional Chinese medicine formula Ling-Gui-Zhu-Gan decoction (LGZGD) plus selective β1-adrenergic receptor inhibitor metoprolol to treat arrhythmia of coronary heart disease can significantly improve efficiency with no adverse reactions.
Shape-selective crystallisation of fluxional carbon cages
Authors: Bismillah Aisha N. , Sturala Jiri , Chapin Brette M. , Yufit Dmitry S. , Hodgkinson Paul , McGonigal Paul R.
Published: October 2018

Overall molecular shape, rather than any specific noncovalent interactions, controls the preferential crystallisation of shapeshifting barbaralane isomers from dynamic mixtures.
Intercalation of alkylamines in layered MoO3 and in situ carbonization for a high-performance asymmetric supercapacitor
Authors: Chen Ningna , Ni Lu , Zhou Jinhua , Zhu Guoyin , Zhang Yu , Chen Shanyong , Gao Fujie , Lu Chunliang , Ji Hongmei , Chen Jing , Wang Xizhang , Guo Xuefeng , Peng Luming , Ding Weiping , Hou Wenhua
Published: October 2018

An intercalation-carbonization technique was utilized to design and synthesize sandwich-type MoO3/C hybrid nanostructures for high-performance asymmetric supercapacitor.
Cylindrical nematic liquid crystal shell: effect of saddle-splay elasticity
Authors: Javadi Arman , Eun Jonghee , Jeong Joonwoo
Published: October 2018

We realize cylindrical nematic liquid crystal shells and investigate their director configurations thoroughly focusing on the role of saddle-splay elasticity.
Hierarchical fibrous microfiltration membranes by self-assembling DBS nanofibrils in solution-blown nanofibers
Authors: Wang Yifei , Chao Guiqun , Li Xiaojie , Dong Feng , Zhuang Xupin , Shi Lei , Cheng Bowen , Xu Xianlin
Published: October 2018

We demonstrated a hierarchical nanofibrous membrane via self-assembly of DBS supramolecular fibrils in solution-blown nanofibers, and it showed good filtration performance.
New insight into Na intercalation with Li substitution on alkali site and high performance of O3-type layered cathode material for sodium ion batteries
Authors: Wang Ji Eun , Han Woo Hyun , Chang Kee Joo , Jung Young Hwa , Kim Do Kyung
Published: October 2018

Li substitution at the alkali site of an O3-type structure improved performance by lowering the energy barrier of Na intercalation and stabilizing the layered structure.
Robust FeCo nanoparticles embedded in a N-doped porous carbon framework for high oxygen conversion catalytic activity in alkaline and acidic media
Authors: Gao Xuan-Wen , Yang Junghoon , Song Kyeongse , Luo Wen-Bin , Dou Shi-Xue , Kang Yong-Mook
Published: October 2018

FeCo alloy nanoparticles were nucleated onto graphitic carbon layers through the pyrolysis of polydopamine (PDA) sub-micrometer spheres to form a highly active electrocatalytic system that exhibits excellent oxygen conversion catalytic activity in both alkaline and acidic media.
Impact of trace extrinsic defect formation on the local symmetry transition in spinel LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4−δ systems and their electrochemical characteristics
Authors: Shiiba Hiromasa , Zettsu Nobuyuki , Kida Satoru , Kim Dae-wook , Teshima Katsuya
Published: October 2018

Many fundamental studies have been conducted on the electrochemical and electronic structures in transition metal cation-substituted LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 systems.
Crystal-controlled polymerization: recent advances in morphology design and control of organic polymer materials
Authors: Oaki Yuya , Sato Kosuke
Published: October 2018

Recent advances in morphology design and control of organic polymer materials from nanoscopic to macroscopic scales, larger than the molecular scale, are summarized as crystal-controlled polymerization from a new perspective.
CO2-Acidolysis of iminoboronate ester based polymersomes
Authors: Cheng Ruidong , Li Guo , Fan Li , Liu Zhaotie , Liu Zhongwen , Jiang Jinqiang
Published: October 2018

The iminoboronate-terminalized star-like prodrug N3-(OEG-IBCAPE)4 was prepared to investigate the CO2-acidolysis of polymersomes with a tunable release feature of CAPE molecules.
Photoresponsive chiral molecular crystal for light-directing nanostructures
Authors: Kim Dae-Yoon , Yoon Won-Jin , Choi Yu-Jin , Lim Seok-In , Koo Jahyeon , Jeong Kwang-Un
Published: October 2018

A photoresponsive chiral molecular crystal was newly designed for precisely tuning the nanoarchitecture and chiropticity in a remote-controllable manner.
Low threshold lasing from novel thulium-incorporated C(NH2)3PbI3 perovskite thin films in Fabry–Pérot resonator
Authors: Arumugam Gowri Manohari , Xu Chunxiang , Karunakaran Santhosh Kumar , Shi Zengliang , Qin Feifei , Zhu Can , Chen Feng
Published: October 2018

The F–P resonator enhances the lasing performances of Tm-doped C(NH2)3PbI3 perovskite thin films. It exhibits a high Q-factor value with a low threshold. When compared to previous literature, this GAPbI3:Tm-based F–P resonator achieves better lasing performances.
Ectopic lipid accumulation: potential role in tubular injury and inflammation in diabetic kidney disease
Authors: Yang Wenxia , Luo Ying , Yang Shikun , Zeng Mengru , Zhang Shumin , Liu Jialu , Han Yuzhang , Liu Yu , Zhu Xuejing , Wu Hao , Liu Fuyou , Sun Lin , Xiao Li
Published: October 2018

Emerging studies suggest that lipid accumulates in the kidneys during diabetic kidney disease (DKD). However, the correlation between ectopic lipid accumulation with tubular damage has not been thoroughly elucidated to date. Using Oil Red staining, lipid accumulation was observed in the kidneys of type 2 DKD patients (classes II–III) and db/db mice compared with the control and was predominantly located in the proximal tubular compartment. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining showed that the intensity of adipose differentiation related protein (ADRP) and sterol regulatory element binding protein-1 (SREBP-1) was clearly up-regulated, which was positively correlated with the tubulointerstitial damage score and inflammation. Furthermore, the urine ADRP content significantly increased in DKD patients compared with the control, which positively correlated with abnormal lipid metabolism, serum creatinine, urine N-acetyl-β-glucosaminidase (NAG), albumin excretion (albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR)), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) expression. However, there was no significant difference observed in plasma ADRP levels. In addition, the expression of SREBP-1 protein was dramatically increased in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) isolated from DKD patients, which was also tightly correlated with urine NAG, ACR, and TNF-α levels. In vitro studies demonstrated increased ADRP and SREBP-1 expression accompanied by lipid accumulation in HK-2 cells cultured in high glucose (HG). HG induced high levels of TNF-α expression, which was partially blocked by transfection of ADRP siRNA or SREBP-1 siRNA. These data indicated that ADRP and SREBP-1 are crucial factors that mediate lipid accumulation with tubular damage and inflammation in DKD, and ectopic lipid accumulation may serve as a novel therapeutic target for amelioration of tubular injury in DKD.
Improving Polish Stuttering Attitudes: An Experimental Study of Teachers and University Students
Authors: St. Louis Kenneth O. , Węsierska Katarzyna , Polewczyk Irena
Published: October 2018

Purpose

This quasi-experimental design study in Poland evaluated the effects of a course on stuttering for university students and the effects of an educational workshop for public school teachers, both interventions designed to improve attitudes toward stuttering.

Method

Participants (132 in-service teachers and 75 university students) completed the Polish version of the
Public Opinion Survey of Human Attributes–Stuttering
(St. Louis, 2011) twice, before and after 2 interventions for experimental groups and 3 months apart for control groups. Experimental teachers participated in a 2-hr workshop dedicated to stuttering. Experimental students enrolled in a 1-semester course wherein multiple activities (including the teacher workshop) were included to generate a comprehensive understanding of stuttering. None of the participants in either control group participated in the academic course for students or workshop for teachers.

Results

Preintervention comparisons for teachers and for students confirmed that participants assigned to either experimental or control groups did not differ significantly on their attitudes toward stuttering. For both experimental teachers and students, the interventions resulted in significant positive changes in stuttering attitudes. Neither control group changed.

Conclusions

This experimental study demonstrated that it is possible to positively modify stuttering attitudes of teachers as well as university students. It has implications for the length, content, and experiential components of interventions designed to improve public attitudes toward stuttering.
Methods in Stuttering Therapy for Desensitizing Parents of Children Who Stutter
Authors: Berquez Ali , Kelman Elaine
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The aim of this study was to describe a range of methods used in stuttering therapy for desensitizing parents of children who stutter (CWS).

Method

This clinical tutorial will first briefly explore the rationale and benefit of including parents of CWS of all ages in the therapy process. The construct of desensitization will be defined, and a description will be given of how traditionally it has been incorporated into therapy with adults who stutter and CWS. Research evidence will be presented about the impact of a child's stuttering on parents. The article will then focus on clinical methods for desensitizing parents of CWS using examples of activities conducted in group and individual therapy with parents at the Michael Palin Centre in London with reference to desired outcomes, how to measure them, and how to address potential pitfalls.

Conclusion

Desensitization activities can be implemented with parents of CWS to help them recognize and manage their emotional reactions to their child's stuttering, to support parents to feel knowledgeable and confident in managing their child's stuttering, and ultimately to enhance the child's progress in therapy.
We Have a Voice: Exploring Participants' Experiences of Stuttering Modification Therapy
Authors: Everard Rachel A. , Howell Peter
Published: October 2018

Purpose

Qualitative data were obtained from 8 people who stutter about their experiences and changes they perceived following attendance of an intensive group therapy intervention. Measures that related to reductions in stuttering, improved communicative confidence, and impacts on stuttering and quality of life were used to complement the qualitative data.

Method

Eight participants attended a group stuttering modification course for adults who stutter. They reported their experiences of therapy and perceived changes in a focus group immediately after therapy and at a semistructured interview 6 months post-therapy. Participants completed 5 additional quantitative standardized outcome measures at 3 data collection points (before and directly after therapy and 6 months post-therapy). These measures provided information about stuttering severity and frequency, use of avoidance strategies, attitude change, communicative confidence, quality of life, and locus of control.

Results

Thematic analysis of the qualitative data identified 4 main areas: thoughts, feelings, and behaviors before therapy and motivation for seeking therapy; direct experience of the course; learning outcomes and challenges and solutions for maintaining change; and ways in which attending therapy had made a difference. These reported changes were supported by the quantitative measures that demonstrated improved communicative confidence; increased self-awareness; affective, behavioral, and cognitive changes; reduced use of avoidance strategies; and lower impact of stuttering on quality of life.

Conclusions

The qualitative analyses confirmed positive speech and attitude changes consequent on participants' attendance at stuttering modification therapy. These changes, further corroborated by quantitative measures, were linked to reports of improved quality of life. Further research is required to investigate the effectiveness of this form of therapy empirically and from the client's perspective.
LoTSS/HETDEX: Optical quasars
Authors: Gürkan Gülay , Hardcastle M. J. , Best P. N. , Morabito L. K. , Prandoni I. , Jarvis M. J. , Duncan K. J. , Calistro Rivera G. , Callingham J. R. , Cochrane R. K. , Croston J. H. , Heald G. , Mingo B. , Mooney S. , Sabater J. , Röttgering H. J. A. , Shimwell T. W. , Smith D. J. B. , Tasse C. , Williams W. L.
Published: October 2018

The radio-loud/radio-quiet (RL/RQ) dichotomy in quasars is still an open question. Although it is thought that accretion onto supermassive black holes in the centre the host galaxies of quasars is responsible for some radio continuum emission, there is still a debate as to whether star formation or active galactic nuclei (AGN) activity dominate the radio continuum luminosity. To date, radio emission in quasars has been investigated almost exclusively using high-frequency observations in which the Doppler boosting might have an important effect on the measured radio luminosity, whereas extended structures, best observed at low radio frequencies, are not affected by the Doppler enhancement. We used a sample of quasars selected by their optical spectra in conjunction with sensitive and high-resolution low-frequency radio data provided by the LOw Frequency ARray (LOFAR) as part of the LOFAR Two-Metre Sky Survey (LoTSS) to investigate their radio properties using the radio loudness parameter (R =L144 MHz/Li band). The examination of the radio continuum emission and RL/RQ dichotomy in quasars exhibits that quasars show a wide continuum of radio properties (i.e. no clear bimodality in the distribution of ℛ). Radio continuum emission at low frequencies in low-luminosity quasars is consistent with being dominated by star formation. We see a significant albeit weak dependency of ℛ on the source nuclear parameters. For the first time, we are able to resolve radio morphologies of a considerable number of quasars. All these crucial results highlight the impact of the deep and high-resolution low-frequency radio surveys that foreshadow the compelling science cases for the Square Kilometre Array (SKA).
Optical/X-ray correlations during the V404 Cygni June 2015 outburst
Authors: Alfonso-Garzón J. , Sánchez-Fernández C. , Charles P. A. , Mas-Hesse J. M. , Gandhi P. , Kimura M. , Domingo A. , Rodriguez J. , Chenevez J.
Published: October 2018

Context. We present a multiwavelength analysis of the simultaneous optical and X-ray light curves of the microquasar V404 Cyg during the June 2015 outburst.

Aims. We have performed a comprehensive analysis of all the INTEGRAL/IBIS, JEM–X, and OMC observations during the brightest epoch of the outburst, along with complementary NuSTAR, AAVSO, and VSNET data, to examine the timing relationship between the simultaneous optical and X-ray light curves, in order to understand the emission mechanisms and physical locations.

Methods. We have identified all optical flares that have simultaneous X-ray observations, and performed a cross-correlation analysis to estimate the time delays between the optical and soft and hard X-ray emission. We also compared the evolution of the optical and X-ray emission with the hardness ratios.

Results. We have identified several types of behaviour during the outburst. On many occasions, the optical flares occur simultaneously with X-ray flares, but at other times, positive and negative time delays between the optical and X-ray emission are measured.

Conclusions. We conclude that the observed optical variability is driven by different physical mechanisms, including reprocessing of X-rays in the accretion disc and/or the companion star, interaction of the jet ejections with surrounding material or with previously ejected blobs, and synchrotron emission from the jet.