bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HCV coinfection aggravated the decrease of platelet counts, but not mean platelet volume in chronic HIV-infected patients
Authors: Lv Linting , Li Yuantao , Fan Xueying , Xie Zhe , Liang Hua , Shen Tao
Published: November 2018

Either HIV or HCV monoinfection could result in an abnormal status of platelets. As two key indicators reflecting activation and function of platelets, the changes of platelet counts and mean platelet volume (MPV) in HIV/HCV-coinfected patients have not been clearly identified. In the present study, a total of 318 former plasma donors were investigated in 2006, and 66% (201 individuals) of primary recruiters were followed up in 2014. By horizontal comparison in 2006, the decrease of platelet counts in HIV/HCV coinfection was greater than that in HIV or HCV monoinfection. MPV scores were lower in HIV monoinfection compared with healthy controls, while no difference was found in HIV/HCV coinfection. Platelet counts were shown to be negatively correlated with MPV scores in total recruited population (r = 0.432, P < 0.001). Interestingly, by comparison of data from two time points of 2006 and 2014, significant decrease of platelets (P = 0.004) and increase of MPV (P = 0.004) were found only in HCV monoinfected patients, which may associate with slow progression of hepatic fibrosis induced by chronic HCV infection. Nonetheless, no significant changes of platelet counts and MPV were found from 2006 to 2014 in coinfected patients. In conclusion, HCV coinfection aggravated the decrease of platelet counts, but not MPV score in chronic HIV infection. MPV showed poor applicability in reflecting the status of platelets in HIV/HCV-coinfected patients.
Quantitative DNA Methylation Analysis of DLGAP2 Gene using Pyrosequencing in Schizophrenia with Tardive Dyskinesia: A Linear Mixed Model Approach
Authors: Li Yanli , Wang Kesheng , Zhang Ping , Huang Junchao , An Huimei , Wang Nianyang , De Yang Fu , Wang Zhiren , Tan Shuping , Chen Song , Tan Yunlong
Published: November 2018

Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a side effect of antipsychotic medications used to treat schizophrenia (SCZ) and other mental health disorders. No study has previously used pyrosequencing to quantify DNA methylation levels of the DLGAP2 gene; while the quantitative methylation levels among CpG sites within a gene may be correlated. To deal with the correlated measures among three CpG sites within the DLGAP2 gene, this study analyzed DNA methylation levels of the DLGAP2 gene using a linear mixed model (LMM) in a Chinese sample consisting of 35 SCZ patients with TD, 35 SCZ without TD (NTD) and 34 healthy controls (HCs) collected in Beijing, China. The initial analysis using the non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis test revealed that three groups (TD, NTD and HC) had significant differences in DNA methylation level for CpG site 2 (p = 0.0119). Furthermore, the average methylation levels among the three CpG sites showed strong correlations (all p values < 0.0001). In addition, using the LMM, three groups had significant differences in methylation level (p = 0.0027); while TD, NTD and TD + NTD groups showed higher average methylation levels than the HC group (p = 0.0024, 0.0151, and 0.0007, respectively). In conclusion, the LMM can accommodate a covariance structure. The findings of this study provide first evidence of DNA methylation levels in DLGAP2 associated with SCZ with TD in Chinese population. However, TD just showed borderline significant differences to NTD in this study.
Pretreatment with Total Flavonoid Extract from Dracocephalum Moldavica L. Attenuates Ischemia Reperfusion-induced Apoptosis
Authors: Zeng Cheng , Jiang Wen , Yang Xiaoyi , He Chenghui , Wang Wen , Xing Jianguo
Published: November 2018

We previously demonstrated the cardio-protection mediated by the total flavonoid extracted from Dracocephalum moldavica L. (TFDM) following myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury (MIRI). The present study assessed the presence and mechanism of TFDM-related cardio-protection on MIRI-induced apoptosis in vivo. Male Sprague-Dawley rats experienced 45-min ischemia with 12 h of reperfusion. Rats pretreated with TFDM (3, 10 or 30 mg/kg/day) were compared with Sham (no MIRI and no TFDM), MIRI (no TFDM), and Positive (trapidil tablets, 13.5 mg/kg/day) groups. In MIRI-treated rats, high dose-TFDM (H-TFDM) pre-treatment with apparently reduced release of LDH, CK-MB and MDA, enhanced the concentration of SOD in plasma, and greatly reduced the infarct size, apoptotic index and mitochondrial injury. H-TFDM pretreatment markedly promoted the phosphorylation of PI3K, Akt, GSK-3β and ERK1/2 in comparison with the MIRI model group. Western blot analysis after reperfusion also showed that H-TFDM decreased release of Bax, cleaved caspase-3, caspase-7 and caspase-9, and increased expression of Bcl-2 as evident by the higher Bcl-2/Bax ratio. TFDM cardio-protection was influenced by LY294002 (PI3K inhibitor) and PD98059 (ERK1/2 inhibitor). Taken together, these results provide convincing evidence of the benefit of TFDM pretreatment due to inhibited myocardial apoptosis as mediated by the PI3K/Akt/GSK-3β and ERK1/2 signaling pathways.
Mapping of a responsible region for sex reversal upstream of Sox9 by production of mice with serial deletion in a genomic locus
Authors: Ogawa Yuya , Terao Miho , Hara Satoshi , Tamano Moe , Okayasu Haruka , Kato Tomoko , Takada Shuji
Published: November 2018

Sox9 plays critical roles in testis formation. By mapping four familial cases of disorders of sexual development, a 32.5 kb sequence located far upstream of SOX9 was previously identified as being a commonly deleted region and named the XY sex reversal region (XYSR). To narrow down a responsible sequence in XYSR, we generated mutant mice with a series of deletions in XYSR by application of the CRISPR/Cas9 system, using a mixture of sgRNAs targeting several kilobase (kb) intervals in the region. When the whole XYSR corresponding sequence in mice was deleted in XY karyotype individuals, the mutation resulted in female offspring, suggesting that an expression mechanism of SOX9/Sox9 through XYSR is conserved in human and mouse. Male-to-female sex reversal was found in mice with a 4.8 kb deletion. We identified a sequence conserved among humans, mice, and opossum, the deletion of which (783 bp) in mice resulted in male-to-female sex reversal. The sequence includes a recently reported critical gonad enhancer for Sox9. Although it cannot be concluded that the human sequence is responsible for XYSR, it is likely. This method is applicable for fine mapping of responsible sequences for disease-causing deletions especially with regard to rare diseases.
Variation of preoperative chest radiography utilization in Switzerland and its influencing factors: a multilevel study with claims data
Authors: Wei Wenjia , Gruebner Oliver , von Wyl Viktor , Brüngger Beat , Dressel Holger , Ulyte Agne , Blozik Eva , Bähler Caroline , Schwenkglenks Matthias
Published: November 2018

Clinical recommendations discourage routine use of preoperative chest radiography (POCR). However, there remains much uncertainty about its utilization, especially variation across small areas. We aimed to assess the variation of POCR use across small regions, and to explore its influencing factors. Patients undergoing inpatient surgery during 2013 to 2015 were identified from insurance claims data. Possible influencing factors of POCR included socio-demographics, health insurance choices, and clinical characteristics. We performed multilevel modelling with region and hospital as random effects. We calculated 80% interval odds ratios (IOR-80) to describe the effect of hospital type, and median odds ratios (MOR) to assess the degree of higher level variation. Utilization rates of POCR varied from 2.5% to 44.4% across regions. Higher age, intrathoracic pathology, and multi-morbidity were positively associated with the use of POCR. Female gender, choice of high franchise and supplementary hospital insurance showed a negative association. MOR was 1.25 and 1.69 for region and hospital levels, respectively. IOR-80s for hospital type were wide and covered the value of one. We observed substantial variation of POCR utilization across small regions in Switzerland. Even after controlling for multiple factors, variation across small regions and hospitals remained. Underlying mechanisms need to be studied further.
In silico discovery of a FOXM1 driven embryonal signaling pathway in therapy resistant neuroblastoma tumors
Authors: Vanhauwaert Suzanne , Decaesteker Bieke , De Brouwer Sara , Leonelli Carina , Durinck Kaat , Mestdagh Pieter , Vandesompele Jo , Sermon Karen , Denecker Geertrui , Van Neste Christophe , Speleman Frank , De Preter Katleen
Published: November 2018

Chemotherapy resistance is responsible for high mortality rates in neuroblastoma. MYCN, an oncogenic driver in neuroblastoma, controls pluripotency genes including LIN28B. We hypothesized that enhanced embryonic stem cell (ESC) gene regulatory programs could mark tumors with high pluripotency capacity and subsequently increased risk for therapy failure. An ESC miRNA signature was established based on publicly available data. In addition, an ESC mRNA signature was generated including the 500 protein coding genes with the highest positive expression correlation with the ESC miRNA signature score in 200 neuroblastomas. High ESC m(i)RNA expression signature scores were significantly correlated with poor neuroblastoma patient outcome specifically in the subgroup of MYCN amplified tumors and stage 4 nonamplified tumors. Further data-mining identified FOXM1, as the major predicted driver of this ESC signature, controlling a large set of genes implicated in cell cycle control and DNA damage response. Of further interest, re-analysis of published data showed that MYCN transcriptionally activates FOXM1 in neuroblastoma cells. In conclusion, a novel ESC m(i)RNA signature stratifies neuroblastomas with poor prognosis, enabling the identification of therapy-resistant tumors. The finding that this signature is strongly FOXM1 driven, warrants for drug design targeted at FOXM1 or key components controlling this pathway.
Thrombin generation during a regular menstrual cycle in women with von Willebrand disease
Authors: Govorov Igor , Bremme Katarina , Lindahl Tomas L. , Holmström Margareta , Komlichenko Eduard , Chaireti Roza , Mints Miriam
Published: November 2018

Fluctuations of the sex steroids during the menstrual cycle might significantly influence hemostasis. This association, derived from a number of the observations on healthy women, is yet to be described in females affected by bleeding disorders. The aim of the current study was to assess the changes in hemostatic variables in women with vWD during two phases of the menstrual cycle (follicular and luteal) and to compare it with healthy controls. The study group included 12 vWD-affected females with regular menstrual cycle, with none of them being prescribed any hormonal treatment. The control group consisted of 102 healthy females, matched for age and BMI. Within the vWD group FVIII and FX were both significantly higher during follicular phase than in luteal phase (p = 0.013 and p = 0.033 respectively). AT, FII, FVII and FX were higher in women with vWD, compared with controls during both phases of the menstrual cycle (p < 0.0005, p < 0.0005, p = 0.001 and p < 0.0005). In women with vWD, lag time and time to peak were prolonged during both phases of the menstrual cycle(p < 0.0005), while peak thrombin concentration was reduced (p = 0.003 and p = 0.002 during follicular and luteal phase respectively) compared to healthy peers. Lower levels of FVIII and FX during luteal phase may predispose women to the development of the menorrhagia - common complication of vWD. Women with vWD need more time to reach the peak thrombin concentration, while the latter still remains less than in healthy women. Higher levels of AT in vWD-affected females, compared to controls, may also contribute to the existing bleeding tendency in this cohort.
Improved enhancement in CT angiography with reduced contrast media iodine concentrations at constant iodine dose
Authors: Van Cauteren Toon , Van Gompel Gert , Nieboer Koenraad H. , Willekens Inneke , Evans Paul , Macholl Sven , Droogmans Steven , de Mey Johan , Buls Nico
Published: November 2018

The study objective is to investigate the impact of a wide range of contrast media (CM) iodine concentrations on CT enhancement at constant total iodine dose (TID) and iodine delivery rate (IDR). Seven injection protocols, based on different iodine concentrations ranging from 120 to 370 mg I/mL, were assessed on 4 minipigs at a constant TID of 320 mg I/kg and IDR of 0.64 g I/s. Dynamic images were acquired on a clinical 64-slice MDCT scanner for 120 s with the abdominal aorta, vena cava inferior and liver parenchyma in the field-of-view. Maximal enhancement, time-to-peak and peak width were assessed. The enhancement curve characteristics were correlated with CM iodine concentration. In particular, CM with lower iodine concentrations yielded a significant increased maximal enhancement and peak width compared to the standard-of-care concentrations: e.g. in the aorta, 245 HU maximal enhancement and 9.2 s peak width with the 320 mg I/mL iodine concentration increased to 291 HU and 16.1 s with 160 mg I/mL. When maintaining a constant TID and IDR, by compensating injection rate and volume, injection of a CM with reduced iodine concentration results in a diagnostically beneficial higher maximal enhancement and longer enhancement peak duration.
Incorporating Breast Anatomy in Computational Phenotyping of Mammographic Parenchymal Patterns for Breast Cancer Risk Estimation
Authors: Gastounioti Aimilia , Hsieh Meng-Kang , Cohen Eric , Pantalone Lauren , Conant Emily F. , Kontos Despina
Published: November 2018

We retrospectively analyzed negative screening digital mammograms from 115 women who developed unilateral breast cancer at least one year later and 460 matched controls. Texture features were estimated in multiple breast regions defined by an anatomically-oriented polar grid, and were weighted by their position and underlying dense versus fatty tissue composition. Elastic net regression with cross-validation was performed and area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) was used to evaluate ability to predict breast cancer. We also compared our anatomy-augmented features to current state-of-the-art in which parenchymal texture was assessed without considering breast anatomy and evaluated the added value of the extracted features to breast density, body-mass-index (BMI) and age as baseline predictors. Our anatomy-augmented texture features resulted in higher discriminatory capacity (AUC = 0.63 vs. AUC = 0.59) when breast anatomy was not considered (p = 0.021), with dense tissue regions and the central breast quadrant being more heavily weighted. Texture also improved baseline models (from AUC = 0.62 to AUC = 0.67, p = 0.029). Our findings suggest that incorporating breast anatomy information could augment imaging markers of breast cancer risk with the potential to improve personalized breast cancer risk assessment.
Sequence-definition in stiff conjugated oligomers
Authors: Schneider Rebekka V. , Waibel Kevin A. , Arndt Andreas P. , Lang Mathias , Seim Rebecca , Busko Dmitry , Bräse Stefan , Lemmer Uli , Meier Michael A. R.
Published: November 2018

The concept of sequence-definition in the sense of polymer chemistry is introduced to conjugated, rod-like oligo(phenylene ethynylene)s via an iterative synthesis procedure. Specifically, monodisperse sequence-defined trimers and pentamers were prepared via iterative Sonogashira cross-coupling and deprotection. The reaction procedure was extended to tetra- and pentamers for the first time yielding a monodisperse pentamer with 18% and a sequence-defined pentamer with 3.2% overall yield. Furthermore, three novel trimers with a 9H-fluorene building block at predefined positions within the phenylene ethynylene chain were synthesised in 23–52% overall yields. Hence, it was confirmed that a functionality of interest can be incorporated selectively at a pre-defined position of these monodisperse oligomers. All respective intermediate structures were fully characterised by proton and carbon NMR, mass spectrometry, size-exclusion chromatography, and IR spectroscopy. Additionally, thermal and optical transitions are reported for the different oligomers.
Brain-Specific Ultrastructure of Capillary Endothelial Glycocalyx and Its Possible Contribution for Blood Brain Barrier
Authors: Ando Yoshiaki , Okada Hideshi , Takemura Genzou , Suzuki Kodai , Takada Chihiro , Tomita Hiroyuki , Zaikokuji Ryogen , Hotta Yasuaki , Miyazaki Nagisa , Yano Hirohisa , Muraki Isamu , Kuroda Ayumi , Fukuda Hirotsugu , Kawasaki Yuki , Okamoto Haruka , Kawaguchi Tomonori , Watanabe Takatomo , Doi Tomoaki , Yoshida Takahiro , Ushikoshi Hiroaki , Yoshida Shozo , Ogura Shinji
Published: November 2018

Endothelial glycocalyx coats healthy vascular endothelium and plays an important role in vascular homeostasis. Although cerebral capillaries are categorized as continuous, as are those in the heart and lung, they likely have specific features related to their function in the blood brain barrier. To test that idea, brains, hearts and lungs from C57BL6 mice were processed with lanthanum-containing alkaline fixative, which preserves the structure of glycocalyx, and examined using scanning and transmission electron microscopy. We found that endothelial glycocalyx is present over the entire luminal surface of cerebral capillaries. The percent area physically covered by glycocalyx within the lumen of cerebral capillaries was 40.1 ± 4.5%, which is significantly more than in cardiac and pulmonary capillaries (15.1 ± 3.7% and 3.7 ± 0.3%, respectively). Upon lipopolysaccharide-induced vascular injury, the endothelial glycocalyx was reduced within cerebral capillaries, but substantial amounts remained. By contrast, cardiac and pulmonary capillaries became nearly devoid of glycocalyx. These findings suggest the denser structure of glycocalyx in the brain is associated with endothelial protection and may be an important component of the blood brain barrier.
Running in highly cushioned shoes increases leg stiffness and amplifies impact loading
Authors: Kulmala Juha-Pekka , Kosonen Jukka , Nurminen Jussi , Avela Janne
Published: November 2018

Running shoe cushioning has become a standard method for managing impact loading and consequent injuries due to running. However, despite decades of shoe technology developments and the fact that shoes have become increasingly cushioned, aimed to ease the impact on runners’ legs, running injuries have not decreased. To better understand the shoe cushioning paradox, we examined impact loading and the spring-like mechanics of running in a conventional control running shoe and a highly cushioned maximalist shoe at two training speeds, 10 and 14.5 km/h. We found that highly cushioned maximalist shoes alter spring-like running mechanics and amplify rather than attenuate impact loading. This surprising outcome was more pronounced at fast running speed (14.5 km/h), where ground reaction force impact peak and loading rate were 10.7% and 12.3% greater, respectively, in the maximalist shoe compared to the conventional shoe, whereas only a slightly higher impact peak (6.4%) was found at the 10 km/h speed with the maximalist shoe. We attribute the greater impact loading with the maximalist shoes to stiffer leg during landing compared to that of running with the conventional shoes. These discoveries may explain why shoes with more cushioning do not protect against impact-related running injuries.
Author Correction: Zircon evidence for incorporation of terrigenous sediments into the magma source of continental basalts
Authors: Xu Zheng , Zheng Yong-Fei , Zhao Zi-Fu
Published: November 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has not been fixed in the paper.
Regulation of the Intranuclear Distribution of the Cockayne Syndrome Proteins
Authors: Iyama Teruaki , Okur Mustafa N. , Golato Tyler , McNeill Daniel R. , Lu Huiming , Hamilton Royce , Raja Aishwarya , Bohr Vilhelm A. , Wilson David M.
Published: November 2018

Cockayne syndrome (CS) is an inherited disorder that involves photosensitivity, developmental defects, progressive degeneration and characteristics of premature aging. Evidence indicates primarily nuclear roles for the major CS proteins, CSA and CSB, specifically in DNA repair and RNA transcription. We reveal herein a complex regulation of CSB targeting that involves three major consensus signals: NLS1 (aa467-481), which directs nuclear and nucleolar localization in cooperation with NoLS1 (aa302-341), and NLS2 (aa1038-1055), which seemingly optimizes nuclear enrichment. CSB localization to the nucleolus was also found to be important for full UVC resistance. CSA, which does not contain any obvious targeting sequences, was adversely affected (i.e. presumably destabilized) by any form of truncation. No inter-coordination between the subnuclear localization of CSA and CSB was observed, implying that this aspect does not underlie the clinical features of CS. The E3 ubiquitin ligase binding partner of CSA, DDB1, played an important role in CSA stability (as well as DDB2), and facilitated CSA association with chromatin following UV irradiation; yet did not affect CSB chromatin binding. We also observed that initial recruitment of CSB to DNA interstrand crosslinks is similar in the nucleoplasm and nucleolus, although final accumulation is greater in the former. Whereas assembly of CSB at sites of DNA damage in the nucleolus was not affected by RNA polymerase I inhibition, stable retention at these sites of presumed repair was abrogated. Our studies reveal a multi-faceted regulation of the intranuclear dynamics of CSA and CSB that plays a role in mediating their cellular functions.
Author Correction: Tailoring diamond’s optical properties via direct femtosecond laser nanostructuring
Authors: Martínez-Calderon M. , Azkona J. J. , Casquero N. , Rodríguez A. , Domke Matthias , Gómez-Aranzadi M. , Olaizola S. M. , Granados E.
Published: November 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has not been fixed in the paper.
The sickle cell trait affects contact dynamics and endothelial cell activation in Plasmodium falciparum-infected erythrocytes
Authors: Lansche Christine , Dasanna Anil K. , Quadt Katharina , Fröhlich Benjamin , Missirlis Dimitris , Tétard Marilou , Gamain Benoit , Buchholz Bernd , Sanchez Cecilia P. , Tanaka Motomu , Schwarz Ulrich S. , Lanzer Michael
Published: November 2018

Sickle cell trait, a common hereditary blood disorder, protects carriers from severe disease in infections with the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. Protection is associated with a reduced capacity of parasitized erythrocytes to cytoadhere to the microvascular endothelium and cause vaso-occlusive events. However, the underpinning cellular and biomechanical processes are only partly understood and the impact on endothelial cell activation is unclear. Here, we show, by combining quantitative flow chamber experiments with multiscale computer simulations of deformable cells in hydrodynamic flow, that parasitized erythrocytes containing the sickle cell haemoglobin displayed altered adhesion dynamics, resulting in restricted contact footprints on the endothelium. Main determinants were cell shape, knob density and membrane bending. As a consequence, the extent of endothelial cell activation was decreased. Our findings provide a quantitative understanding of how the sickle cell trait affects the dynamic cytoadhesion behavior of parasitized erythrocytes and, in turn, endothelial cell activation.
SPEC 2018: International Society of Clinical Spectroscopy
Authors: Baker Matthew J.
Published: November 2018

Welcome to the latest themed issue on the topic of Optical Diagnosis in Analyst, guest-edited by Dr. Matthew Baker.
Amino-functionalized mesoporous silica nanospheres (MSN-NH2) as sorbent for extraction and concentration of synthetic dyes from foodstuffs prior to HPLC analysis
Authors: Qin Peige , Yang Yixin , Li Wenqi , Zhang Jing , Zhou Qian , Lu Minghua
Published: November 2018

MSN-NH2 was used as sorbent of dSPE for extraction and preconcentration of dyes from different foodstuffs prior to HPLC analysis.
Geographical traceability of cultivated Paris polyphylla var. yunnanensis using ATR-FTMIR spectroscopy with three mathematical algorithms
Authors: Pei Yi-Fei , Wu Li-Hua , Zhang Qing-Zhi , Wang Yuan-Zhong
Published: November 2018

Discrimination ability for geographical origins of 3rd to 8th cultivation years Paris yunnanensis of PLS-DA was better than RF model.
Polypeptide-affined interpenetrating hydrogels with tunable physical and mechanical properties
Authors: Oveissi Farshad , Naficy Sina , Le Thi Yen Loan , Fletcher David F. , Dehghani Fariba
Published: November 2018

In this study, an elastic and biocompatible hydrogel was fabricated with tunable mechanical stiffness. This type of hydrogel with unique biomechanical properties is promising for a broad range of applications in designing biomedical devices for soft tissues such as brain and skeletal muscles.
Up-to-date vaccine delivery systems: robust immunity elicited by multifarious nanomaterials upon administration through diverse routes
Authors: Hou Changshun , Yi Bo , Jiang Jieke , Chang Yung-Fu , Yao Xi
Published: November 2018

Immune cell-elicited robust immunity induced by a range of nanomaterials upon subcutaneous/intramuscular injection, intraperitoneal injection, oral/nasal gavage or mucoadhesion.
Direct synthesis of 3-acylbenzothiophenes via the radical cyclization of 2-alkynylthioanisoles with α-oxocarboxylic acids
Authors: Liu Wei , Hu Yao-Qian , Hong Xiao-Yi , Li Guo-Xing , Huang Xiao-Bo , Gao Wen-Xia , Liu Miao-Chang , Xia Yuanzhi , Zhou Yun-Bing , Wu Hua-Yue
Published: November 2018

A radical cascade cyclization strategy has been developed to provide a direct route to access 3-acylbenzothiophenes from simple chemical feedstocks.
Efficient and stable radiolabeling of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon assemblies: in vivo imaging of diesel exhaust particulates in mice
Authors: Lee Chang Heon , Shim Ha Eun , Song Lee , Moon Hi Gyu , Lee Kyuhong , Yang Jung Eun , Song Ha Yeon , Choi Yong Jun , Choi Dae Seong , Jeon Jongho
Published: November 2018

As a robust radioanalytical method for tracking carbonaceous particulates in vivo, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons from diesel exhaust were labeled with a radioactive-iodine-tagged pyrene analogue.
[(NHC)CoR2]: pre-catalysts for homogeneous olefin and alkyne hydrogenation
Authors: Enachi Andreea , Baabe Dirk , Zaretzke Marc-Kevin , Schweyen Peter , Freytag Matthias , Raeder Jan , Walter Marc D.
Published: November 2018

[(ItBu)Co(CH2SiMe3)2] serves as an efficient, homogeneous olefin hydrogenation catalyst.
Influence of magnetic flux concentrator on the induction heating process in crystal growth systems-geometry investigation
Authors: Heidari Hamed , Tavakoli Mohammad Hossein , Sobhani Sayed Omid , Honarmandnia Mohtaram
Published: November 2018

In this paper, a magnetic flux concentrator (MFC) is reported, and its geometry effect on the induction heating process has been calculated in a Czochralski crystal growth system using the 2D finite element method.
Advancement toward ultra-thick and bright InGaN/GaN structures with a high number of QWs
Authors: Hubáček Tomáš , Hospodková Alice , Kuldová Karla , Oswald Jiří , Pangrác Jiří , Jarý Vitězslav , Dominec Filip , Slavická Zíková Markéta , Hájek František , Hulicius Eduard , Vetushka Alexej , Ledoux Gilles , Dujardin Christophe , Nikl Martin
Published: November 2018

InGaN/GaN structures are studied as potential candidates for superfast scintillation detectors and show the leading decay time of around 1 ns and intense luminescence.
Exploring the ultrafast dynamics of a diarylethene derivative using sub-10 fs laser pulses
Authors: Jarota Arkadiusz , Pastorczak Ewa , Tawfik Walid , Xue Bing , Kania Rafał , Abramczyk Halina , Kobayashi Takayoshi
Published: November 2018

The fast internal conversion S1 → S0 of a diarylethenes photoswitch, facilitated by two vibrational stretching modes, results in a low quantum yield of the ring-opening reaction.
Structural and chemical analysis of second-row impurities in liquid lead–bismuth eutectic by first-principles molecular dynamics
Authors: Gil Junhyoung , Oda Takuji
Published: November 2018

The structural and chemical states of the second-row impurities in liquid lead–bismuth eutectic (LBE) are studied by first-principles molecular dynamics.
Photon catalysis of deuterium iodide photodissociation
Authors: Hilsabeck Kallie I. , Meiser Jana L. , Sneha Mahima , Balakrishnan N. , Zare Richard N.
Published: November 2018

The photodissociation of deuterium iodide is catalyzed by the electric field supplied by nonresonant IR photons.
Ab initio quantum-chemical computations of the absorption cross sections of HgX2 and HgXY (X, Y = Cl, Br, and I): molecules of interest in the Earth's atmosphere
Authors: Sitkiewicz Sebastian P. , Rivero Daniel , Oliva-Enrich Josep M. , Saiz-Lopez Alfonso , Roca-Sanjuán Daniel
Published: November 2018

The electronic-structure properties of the low-lying electronic states and the absorption cross sections of mercury halides have been determined within the UV-vis spectrum range (170 nm ≤ λphoton ≤ 600 nm).
Special features of monolayer characteristics of N-alkanoyl substituted threonine amphiphiles
Authors: Vollhardt D. , Stefaniu C. , Brezesinski G.
Published: November 2018

The particularities of monolayer characteristics of N-alkanoyl substituted threonine amphiphiles are specified on mesoscopic and molecular scales.
Recent advances in gold–NHC complexes with biological properties
Authors: Mora Malka , Gimeno M. Concepción , Visbal Renso
Published: November 2018

This tutorial review covers the recent advances made in the study of gold complexes containing N-heterocyclic carbene ligands with biological properties.
Combination of curcuma zedoary and kelp inhibits growth and metastasis of liver cancerin vivoandin vitro viareducing endogenous H2S levels
Authors: Han Huanxiao , Wang Lupeng , Liu Ya , Shi Xiaoyan , Zhang Xiuli , Li Ming , Wang Tianxiao
Published: November 2018

The combination of traditional Chinese medicines can improve the efficacy of cancer treatment.
L-shell X-ray production cross-sections for Mo by proton impact
Authors: Pérez Pablo D. , Rodríguez Tabatha P. , Trincavelli Jorge C. , Fernández-Varea José M. , Suárez Sergio G.
Published: November 2018

Total L and Li subshell X-ray production cross-sections were determined experimentally for Mo by proton impact.
Proteomic approach underlying the hippocampal neurodegeneration caused by low doses of methylmercury after long-term exposure in adult rats
Authors: Bittencourt Leonardo Oliveira , Dionizio Aline , Nascimento Priscila Cunha , Puty Bruna , Leão Luana Ketlen Reis , Luz Diandra Araújo , Silva Marcia Cristina Freitas , Amado Lílian Lund , Leite Aline , Buzalaf Marília Rabelo , Crespo-Lopez Maria Elena , Maia Cristiane Socorro Ferraz , Lima Rafael Rodrigues
Published: November 2018

Investigation of biochemical and morphological parameters underlying the cognitive dysfunction after MeHg exposure.
Strain in a single wrinkle on an MoS2 flake for in-plane realignment of band structure for enhanced photo-response
Authors: Deng Shikai , Che Songwei , Debbarma Rousan , Berry Vikas
Published: November 2018

Since 2D transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) exhibit strain-tunable bandgaps, locally confining strain can allow lateral manipulation of their band structure, in-plane carrier transport and optical transitions.
Uncertainty quantification of a DNA origami mechanism using a coarse-grained model and kinematic variance analysis
Authors: Huang Chao-Min , Kucinic Anjelica , Le Jenny V. , Castro Carlos E. , Su Hai-Jun
Published: November 2018

We report a hybrid computational framework combining coarse-grained modeling with kinematic variance analysis for predicting uncertainties in the motion pathway of a multi-component DNA origami mechanism.
Tuning coiled coil stability with histidine-metal coordination
Authors: Tunn Isabell , de Léon Alberto S. , Blank Kerstin G. , Harrington Matthew J.
Published: November 2018

Reinforcing coiled coils with histidine-metal coordination reversibly increases their thermodynamic and mechanical stability with implications for biomimetic hydrogel design.
An ultrathin iron-porphyrin based nanocapsule with high peroxidase-like activity for highly sensitive glucose detection
Authors: Fan Xiaotong , Tian Ruizhen , Wang Tingting , Liu Shengda , Wang Liang , Xu Jiayun , Liu Junqiu , Ma Min , Wu Zhengzhi
Published: November 2018

A peroxidase mimic was firstly fabricated using a covalent assembly strategy, which can be used for highly sensitive glucose detection.
Urchin-like NiO–NiCo2O4 heterostructure microsphere catalysts for enhanced rechargeable non-aqueous Li–O2 batteries
Authors: Zhao Wen , Li Xiaomin , Yin Rui , Qian Lei , Huang Xiaoshuai , Liu Hu , Zhang Jiaoxia , Wang Jun , Ding Tao , Guo Zhanhu
Published: November 2018

Benefiting from the synergetic effect between NiO and NiCo2O4 and the heterostructure, urchin-like NiO–NiCo2O4 microspheres exhibited favorable electrocatalytic performance for Li–O2 batteries.
Cyclodextrin-based sustained gene release systems: a supramolecular solution towards clinical applications
Authors: Xu Chenfang , Wu Yun-Long , Li Zibiao , Loh Xian Jun
Published: November 2018

Recent advances of using cyclodextrin (CD) based supramolecular structures as sustained gene release systems are summarized.
Graphene oxide mediated thiolation of indoles in water: a green and sustainable approach to synthesize 3-sulfenylindoles
Authors: Chen Min , Luo Yi , Zhang Chen , Guo Li , Wang Qiantao , Wu Yong
Published: November 2018

Graphene oxide, a green and recyclable catalyst, was developed to synthesize 3-sulfenylindoles in water.
Evaluation of residual stress and texture in isotope based Mg11B2superconductor using neutron diffraction
Authors: Jie Hyunseock , Qiu Wenbin , Gajda Daniel , Kim Jeonghun , Anvar Valiyaparambil Abdulsalam , Nijhuis Arend , Bando Yoshio , Yamauchi Yusuke , Luzin Vladimir , Shahriar A. Hossain Md.
Published: November 2018

Magnesium diboride (MgB2) superconducting wires have demonstrated commercial potential to replace niobium–titanium (NbTi) in terms of comparable critical current density.
High-water-absorbing calcium alginate fibrous scaffold fabricated by microfluidic spinning for use in chronic wound dressings
Authors: Cai Jie , Chen Xiaojing , Wang Xiaojing , Tan Yulu , Ye Dongdong , Jia Yongtang , Liu Peifeng , Yu Hui
Published: November 2018

More and more water-absorbing wound dressings have been studied since moist wound-healing treatment can effectively promote the healing of wounds.
pH-responsive chitosan-based flocculant for precise dye flocculation control and the recycling of textile dyeing effluents
Authors: Wei Tingting , Wu Liang , Yu Feng , Lv Yin , Chen Long , Shi Yulin , Dai Bin
Published: November 2018

Balance between environmental capacity and energy capacity using a pH-responsive chitosan-based flocculant.
Design, synthesis and fungicidal activity of isothiazole–thiazole derivatives
Authors: Wu Qi-Fan , Zhao Bin , Fan Zhi-Jin , Zhao Jia-Bao , Guo Xiao-Feng , Yang Dong-Yan , Zhang Nai-Lou , Yu Bin , Kalinina Tatiana , Glukhareva Tatiana
Published: November 2018

Compound 6u exhibits ultrahigh fungicidal activity by acting at its potent target PcORP1 and induces systemic acquired resistance by activating the salicylic acid pathway.
Controllable synthesis of nanostructured ZnCo2O4 as high-performance anode materials for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Liu Huan , Wang Xinlu , Xu Hang , Wang Jinxian , Ma Qianli , Yu Wensheng , Yang Ying , Dong Xiangting , Liu Guixia , Zhao Yan
Published: November 2018

ZnCo2O4 nanoparticles, nanotubes, and nanofibers can be controllably prepared by simply tuning the weight ratios of metallic salts and PVP polymer in the precursor solution.
The efficiency and mechanism of dibutyl phthalate removal by copper-based metal organic frameworks coupled with persulfate
Authors: Li Huanxuan , Qin Jialing , Zhang Yayun , Xu Shaodan , Du Jia , Tang Junhong
Published: November 2018

Dibutyl phthalate was removed effectively by Cu-BTC-A through mechanisms of adsorption and catalytic oxidation reaction in the presence of persulfate.
A convenient and efficient precursor transformation route to well-dispersed, stable, and highly accessible supported Au nanocatalysts with excellent catalytic hydrogenation performances
Authors: Xie Jin-Feng , Li Hai-Tao , Gao Qiang , Wang Hao , Gong Yan-Sheng
Published: November 2018

Synthesis of well-dispersed, stable, and highly accessible supported Au nanocatalysts was achievedviaa new and efficient precursor transformation route.
Electrodegradation of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid herbicide from aqueous solution using three-dimensional electrode reactor with G/β-PbO2anode: Taguchi optimization and degradation mechanism determination
Authors: Dargahi Abdollah , Nematollahi Davood , Asgari Ghorban , Shokoohi Reza , Ansari Amin , Samarghandi Mohammad Reza
Published: November 2018

Optimization of process parameters using the Taguchi method, electrochemical degradation and electrochemical degradation mechanism of 2,4-D herbicide using 2D and 3D reactors with G/β-PbO2anode were investigated.
Novel far-red-emitting SrGdAlO4:Mn4+ phosphors with excellent responsiveness to phytochrome PFR for plant growth lighting
Authors: Sun Qi , Wang Shaoying , Devakumar Balaji , Li Bin , Sun Liangling , Liang Jia , Chen Daqin , Huang Xiaoyong
Published: November 2018

In this paper, we reported on novel Mn4+-activated SrGdAlO4 far-red-emitting phosphors with excellent responsiveness to phytochrome PFR for potential application in plant growth lighting.
Ag8SnS6: a new IR solar absorber material with a near optimal bandgap
Authors: Boon-on Patsorn , Aragaw Belete Asefa , Lee Chun-Yen , Shi Jen-Bin , Lee Ming-Way
Published: November 2018

We report the synthesis and photovoltaic properties of a new ternary solar absorber – Ag8SnS6 nanocrystals prepared by successive ionic layer adsorption reaction (SILAR) technique.
Exchange dynamics between amphiphilic block copolymers and lipidic membranes through hydrophobic pyrene probe transfer
Authors: Bravo-Anaya Lourdes Mónica , Gómez Gabriel Landazuri , Figueroa-Ochoa Edgar , Ramos Francisco Carvajal , Armando Soltero Martínez J. Félix , Rharbi Yahya
Published: November 2018

Exchange dynamics between P104 micelles and liposomes for vectorization followed by using PyC18 hydrophobic probe.
Characterisation of the biosynthetic pathway to agnestins A and B reveals the reductive route to chrysophanol in fungi
Authors: Szwalbe Agnieszka J. , Williams Katherine , Song Zhongshu , de Mattos-Shipley Kate , Vincent Jason L. , Bailey Andrew M. , Willis Christine L. , Cox Russell J. , Simpson Thomas J.
Published: November 2018

Identification of a reductase (AgnL4) confirms thatin vivoanthraquinone to anthrol conversion is an essential first step in aromatic deoxygenation of anthraquinones catalysed by AgnL6 (reductase) and AgnL8 (dehydratase).
A metal-catalyzed new approach for α-alkynylation of cyclic amines
Authors: Cui Yifan , Lin Weilong , Ma Shengming
Published: November 2018

The first catalytic α-alkynylation of cyclic amines with the help of the N-propargylic group with an exclusive high E-stereoselectivity has been realized.
α-Conotoxin GI triazole-peptidomimetics: potent and stable blockers of a human acetylcholine receptor
Authors: Knuhtsen Astrid , Whitmore Charlotte , McWhinnie Fergus S. , McDougall Laura , Whiting Rachel , Smith Brian O. , Timperley Christopher M. , Green A. Christopher , Kinnear Kenneth I. , Jamieson Andrew G.
Published: November 2018

A conotoxin peptidomimetic was developed as a potential muscle relaxant that is highly potent and blood plasma stable.
A graph-convolutional neural network model for the prediction of chemical reactivity
Authors: Coley Connor W. , Jin Wengong , Rogers Luke , Jamison Timothy F. , Jaakkola Tommi S. , Green William H. , Barzilay Regina , Jensen Klavs F.
Published: November 2018

We present a supervised learning approach to predict the products of organic reactions given their reactants, reagents, and solvent(s).
The biobehavior, biocompatibility and theranostic application of SPNS and Pd@Au nanoplates in rats and rabbits
Authors: Li Jingchao , Liu Hongzhi , Ming Jiang , Sun Duo , Chen Xiaolan , Liu Xiaolong , Zheng Nanfeng
Published: November 2018

Based on various applications in cancer theranostics of two-dimensional Pd-based nanomaterials in mice models, this work aimed at investigating their biobehaviors, biocompatibility and theranostic effects in bigger animals for future clinical translation.
Phase behavior and morphology of multicomponent liquid mixtures
Authors: Mao Sheng , Kuldinow Derek , Haataja Mikko P. , Košmrlj Andrej
Published: November 2018

Cahn–Hilliard and Flory–Huggins theories are employed to investigate emergence of nested morphologies in phase separated multicomponent systems.
Singular dynamics in the failure of soft adhesive contacts
Authors: Berman Justin D. , Randeria Manjari , Style Robert W. , Xu Qin , Nichols James R. , Duncan Aidan J. , Loewenberg Michael , Dufresne Eric R. , Jensen Katharine E.
Published: November 2018

We observe that soft gels recoil with singular dynamics after adhesive detachment, driven by surface stress and slowed by viscous flow through the gel's porous, elastic network.
Local structure and vibrational dynamics in indium-doped barium zirconate
Authors: Mazzei Laura , Perrichon Adrien , Mancini Alessandro , Wahnström Göran , Malavasi Lorenzo , Parker Stewart F. , Börjesson Lars , Karlsson Maths
Published: November 2018

Long-range proton diffusion through a percolation pathway of dopant atoms in acceptor doped barium zirconate.
Selective separation and preconcentration of Th(iv) using organo-functionalized, hierarchically porous silica monoliths
Authors: Hu Yimu , Giret Simon , Meinusch Rafael , Han Jongho , Fontaine Frédéric-Georges , Kleitz Freddy , Larivière Dominic
Published: November 2018

Hierarchical macroporous–mesoporous diglycolamide-modified silica monolith used as a selective sorbent for continuous flow separation of Th(iv) from rare earth elements.
A diamine-grafted metal–organic framework with outstanding CO2 capture properties and a facile coating approach for imparting exceptional moisture stability
Authors: Kang Minjung , Kim Jeong Eun , Kang Dong Won , Lee Hwa Young , Moon Dohyun , Hong Chang Seop
Published: November 2018

The MOF exhibited a narrow temperature difference (ΔT = 30 °C) upon CO2 adsorption and desorption. A simple coating of the adsorbent with PDMS allowed for a drastic improvement of moisture stability.
An 8.7% efficiency co-electrodeposited Cu2ZnSnS4 photovoltaic device fabricated via a pressurized post-sulfurization process
Authors: Zhang Chuanjun , Tao Jiahua , Chu Junhao
Published: November 2018

Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) photovoltaic devices with Cu–Zn–Sn–S precursors were prepared by co-electrodeposition.
Lack of null controllability of viscoelastic flows
Authors: Maity Debayan , Mitra Debanjana , Renardy Michael
Published: November 2018

We consider controllability of linear viscoelastic flow with a localized control in the momentum equation. We show that, for Jeffreys fluids or for Maxwell fluids with more than one relaxation mode, exact null controllability does not hold. This contrasts with known results on approximate controllability.
Performance of Waste Cooking Oil on Aged Asphalt Mixture
Authors: Putra Jaya Ramadhansyah , Lopa Romana Sarker , Abdul Hassan Norhidayah , Yaacob Haryati , Idris Ali Mohamad , Abdul Hamid Nor Hayati , Abdullah Mohd Ezree
Published: November 2018

Asphaltic concrete pavement is popular worldwide, but this type of pavement requires frequent maintenance and rehabilitation as it cannot cope up with the increasing number of traffic vehicles and loads. Therefore, modifying asphalt pavement to reduce the damages and defects is necessary, thereby enhancing the serviceability of pavement. This study presents the effect of waste cooking oil on asphalt mixture at different ageing conditions. A 60/70 penetration-grade asphalt binder was used, and 5% of this binder was replaced with untreated and treated waste cooking oil. Asphalt mixtures were prepared at the selected 5% optimum bitumen content and under two tests, i.e. Marshall stability and resilient modulus. The findings showed the better stability and resilient modulus of long-term aged samples incorporated with treated waste cooking oil than the unaged and short-term aged samples. The incorporation of untreated waste cooking oil caused reduced performance compared with the controlled and long-term aged samples. This result can be attributed to the high acid value of waste cooking oil. Therefore, treated waste cooking oil can be used as a binder replacement given its significantly higher performance at the mentioned ageing condition than the controlled mixture.
Strength Performance on Different Mix of Cement-Sand Ratio and Sand Condition for Lightweight Foamed Concrete
Authors: Lee Yee Ling , Tan Cher Siang , Lim Siong Kang , Mohammad Shahrin , Lim Jee Hock
Published: November 2018

Proper cement-sand ratio and water content can provide excellent consistency and stability for lightweight foamed concrete. The aims of this study are to investigate the comprehensive optimisation design mix of lightweight foamed concrete with different cement-sand ratio and the effect of sand size and admixture towards the consistency and stability of the design mix. Silica fume as admixture was used to verify the improvements in the strength of the foamed concrete. Two types of foamed concrete were prepared, namely SC with sieved sand and UC with unsieved sand used in foamed concrete. Three different cement-sand ratios with different water content were tested for the above two types of foamed concrete for their compressive strength, consistency and stability. The results indicate that foamed concrete using sieved sand gained better consistency and stability. In addition, using silica fume in foamed concrete significantly improved the compressive strength with the highest strength at 27.12 MPa with 1700 kg/m3 density.
Performance of Palm Oil Fuel Ash and Rice Husk Ash Based Geopolymer Mortar
Authors: Alias Tudin Dhabit Zahin , Rizalman Ahmad Nurfaidhi , Asrah Hidayati
Published: November 2018

Geopolymer is a cement free material which uses binder produced by the reaction of the alkaline liquid solution with binding agents. In this study, the performance of geopolymer mortar using Palm Oil Fuel Ash (POFA) and Rice Husk Ash (RHA) as binding agents was carried out. The tests conducted in this research were Specific Gravity, X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), bulk density and compressive strength at 7th, 14th and 28th days. The results show both POFA and RHA materials fulfilled the criteria as a pozzolanic material. Meanwhile, the cement based mortar has the highest bulk density, followed by POFA based and RHA based geopolymer mortar. The cement based mortar was also identified to have the highest compressive strength due to its densest structure. However, it was found that the RHA based geopolymer mortar has higher compressive strength than the POFA based geopolymer despite its lower density. This is due to the high silica content in RHA which promote more silica-oxygen-silica bonds than POFA.