bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Attentional Guidance from Multiple Working Memory Representations: Evidence from Eye Movements
Authors: Zhang Bao , Liu Shuhui , Doro Mattia , Galfano Giovanni
Published: September 2018

Recent studies have shown that the representation of an item in visual working memory (VWM) can bias the deployment of attention to stimuli in the visual scene possessing the same features. When multiple item representations are simultaneously held in VWM, whether these representations, especially those held in a non-prioritized or accessory status, are able to bias attention, is still controversial. In the present study we adopted an eye tracking technique to shed light on this issue. In particular, we implemented a manipulation aimed at prioritizing one of the VWM representation to an active status, and tested whether attention could be guided by both the prioritized and the accessory representations when they reappeared as distractors in a visual search task. Notably, in Experiment 1, an analysis of first fixation proportion (FFP) revealed that both the prioritized and the accessory representations were able to capture attention suggesting a significant attentional guidance effect. However, such effect was not present in manual response times (RT). Most critically, in Experiment 2, we used a more robust experimental design controlling for different factors that might have played a role in shaping these findings. The results showed evidence for attentional guidance from the accessory representation in both manual RTs and FFPs. Interestingly, FFPs showed a stronger attentional bias for the prioritized representation than for the accessory representation across experiments. The overall findings suggest that multiple VWM representations, even the accessory representation, can simultaneously interact with visual attention.
Spatio-temporal characteristics of population responses evoked by microstimulation in the barrel cortex
Authors: Margalit Shany Nivinsky , Slovin Hamutal
Published: September 2018

Intra-cortical microstimulation (ICMS) is a widely used technique to artificially stimulate cortical tissue. This method revealed functional maps and provided causal links between neuronal activity and cognitive, sensory or motor functions. The effects of ICMS on neural activity depend on stimulation parameters. Past studies investigated the effects of stimulation frequency mainly at the behavioral or motor level. Therefore the direct effect of frequency stimulation on the evoked spatio-temporal patterns of cortical activity is largely unknown. To study this question we used voltage-sensitive dye imaging to measure the population response in the barrel cortex of anesthetized rats evoked by high frequency stimulation (HFS), a lower frequency stimulation (LFS) of the same duration or a single pulse stimulation. We found that single pulse and short trains of ICMS induced cortical activity extending over few mm. HFS evoked a lower population response during the sustained response and showed a smaller activation across time and space compared with LFS. Finally the evoked population response started near the electrode site and spread horizontally at a propagation velocity in accordance with horizontal connections. In summary, HFS was less effective in cortical activation compared to LFS although HFS had 5 fold more energy than LFS.
Human-like smelling of a rose scent using an olfactory receptor nanodisc-based bioelectronic nose
Authors: Lee Minju , Yang Heehong , Kim Daesan , Yang Myungjae , Park Tai Hyun , Hong Seunghun
Published: September 2018

We report a strategy for the human-like smelling of a rose scent utilizing olfactory receptor nanodisc (ND)-based bioelectronic nose devices. In this strategy, a floating electrode (FE)-based carbon nanotube (CNT) field effect transistor (FET) was functionalized with human olfactory receptor 1A2 (hOR1A2)-embedded NDs (hOR1A2NDs). The hOR1A2NDs responded to rose scent molecules specifically, which were monitored electrically using the underlying CNT-FET. This strategy allowed us to quantitatively assess the contents of geraniol and citronellol, the main components of a rose scent, as low as 1 fM and 10 fM, respectively. In addition, it enabled us to selectively discriminate a specific rose odorant from other odorants. Significantly, we also demonstrated that the responses of hOR1A2NDs to a rose scent could be strongly enhanced by enhancer materials like a human nose. Furthermore, the method provided a means to quantitatively evaluate rose scent components in real samples such as rose oil. Since our method allows one to quantitatively evaluate general rose scent ingredients just like a human nose, it could be a powerful strategy for versatile basic research and various applications such as fragrance development.
Anisotropic Multi-channel Collagen Gel (MCCG) Guides the Growth Direction of the Neurite-like Processes of PC12 Cells
Authors: Koh Isabel , Furusawa Kazuya , Haga Hisashi
Published: September 2018

Hydrogels made of various materials using a variety of methods have been extensively studied for use in tissue engineering, and collagen is one of the most common material used for its biocompatibility due to it being a major component of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Furthermore, the alignment of collagen fibres has been shown to direct the growth of neurites, an important criterion for engineering nervous tissues. The Multi-channel Collagen Gel (MCCG) has collagen fibres aligned circumferentially around the channel structures of the gel, and we predicted that the MCCG could guide the growth direction of neurites. In this study, we showed that the growth pathway of the neurite-like processes of PC12 cells were guided in MCCG but not in normal collagen gel (COL). The gelation of collagen gels are known to be affected by ionic concentrations, and hence we also investigated the effects of different concentrations of NaCl on the properties of MCCG. We found that, despite differences in channel density, spacing between channels, and degree of collagen fibre alignment, all MCCGs had similar guiding properties on the growth of neurites. Therefore, we believe that anisotropic MCCG could be a useful biomaterial for neural tissue engineering in the future.
Engineered Human Contractile Myofiber Sheets as a Platform for Studies of Skeletal Muscle Physiology
Authors: Takahashi Hironobu , Shimizu Tatsuya , Okano Teruo
Published: September 2018

Skeletal muscle physiology and the mechanisms of muscle diseases can be effectively studied by an in-vitro tissue model produced by muscle tissue engineering. Engineered human cell-based tissues are required more than ever because of the advantages they bring as tissue models in research studies. This study reports on a production method of a human skeletal myofiber sheet that demonstrates biomimetic properties including the aligned structure of myofibers, basement membrane-like structure of the extracellular matrix, and unidirectional contractile ability. The contractile ability and drug responsibility shown in this study indicate that this engineered muscle tissue has potential as a human cell-based tissue model for clinically relevant in-vitro studies in muscle physiology and drug discovery. Moreover, this engineered tissue can be used to better understand the relationships between mechanical stress and myogenesis, including muscle growth and regeneration. In this study, periodic exercise induced by continuous electrical pulse stimulation enhanced the contractile ability of the engineered myofibers and the secretion of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) from the exercising myofibers. Since the physiology of skeletal muscle is directly related to mechanical stress, these features point to application as a tissue model and platform for future biological studies of skeletal muscle including muscle metabolism, muscle atrophy and muscle regeneration.
Ultrawide Bandwidth Electromagnetic Wave Absorbers Composed of Double-Layer Frequency Selective Surfaces with Different Patterns
Authors: Liu Tian , Kim Sung-Soo
Published: September 2018

A novel design for an ultra-wide bandwidth and thin microwave absorber is introduced utilizing two frequency selective surfaces (FSSs) with different patterns of resonating frequencies. The circuit parameters, inductance and capacitance, of the three types of FSS (square loop, cross, square patch) were determined using an equivalent circuit and strip wire conductor model. The square loop FSS indicates a low frequency resonance (10 GHz) due to its high inductance and capacitance. On the other hand, the square patch of small inductance reveals a high resonating frequency (36 GHz). By optimizing the combination of the two FSSs, an ultra-wide absorption bandwidth (6.3–40.0 GHz for −10 dB reflection loss) was designed with a small total thickness of 5.5 mm, which is close to the theoretical limit. The free space measurement result with a test sample prepared by the screen printing method was in good agreement with the simulation result and verified the validity of the proposed design method. For these periodic array structures, however, the grating lobes were observed above the high frequency limit, and it needs to be emphasized that the further control of the unit cell periodicity is important, particularly for large oblique incidence angles.
Rapid Shifts of Peak Flowering Phenology in 12 Species under the Effects of Extreme Climate Events in Macao
Authors: Zhang Jianhao , Yi Qifei , Xing Fuwu , Tang Chunyan , Wang Lin , Ye Wen , Ng Ian Ian , Chan Tou I , Chen Hongfeng , Liu Dongming
Published: September 2018

Plant phenology is sensitive to climate change; the timing of flowering has served as a visible indicator of plant phenology in numerous studies. The present study used phenological records from a manual monitoring program to characterize the flowering phenology of 12 species in Guia Hill, Macao. The mean peak flowering dates (PFDs) of these species ranged from March to September, 41.7% of which occurred in May. The earliest or latest PFDs of nine species occurred in 2013, a year with extremely heavy rain events in early spring. In addition, we found that, in the 5-year period, the monthly mean temperature or monthly precipitation in two periods, specifically 1) during November to December of the previous year and 2) during 0–2 months before the PFDs of each species, were significantly correlated with the PFD of eight species. The result showed that, even though complex species-specific responses to the characteristics of climate widely exist, most species in the present study responded to shifts in climate shifts in these two periods. In addition, some species were extraordinarily sensitive to extreme climate events. Precipitation was more effective in altering flowering date than temperature, especially among the late-flowering species in Guia Hill, Macao.
A specific, promoter-independent activity of T7 RNA polymerase suggests a general model for DNA/RNA editing in single subunit RNA Polymerases
Authors: Sarcar Subha Narayan , Miller Dennis L.
Published: September 2018

Insertional RNA editing has been observed and characterized in mitochondria of myxomycetes. The single subunit mitochondrial RNA polymerase adds nontemplated nucleotides co-transcriptionally to produce functional tRNA, rRNA and mRNAs with full genetic information. Addition of nontemplated nucleotides to the 3′ ends of RNAs have been observed in polymerases related to the mitochondrial RNA polymerase. This activity has been observed with T7 RNA polymerase (T7 RNAP), the well characterized prototype of the single subunit polymerases, as a nonspecific addition of nucleotides to the 3′ end of T7 RNAP transcripts in vitro. Here we show that this novel activity is an editing activity that can add specific ribonucleotides to 3′ ends of RNA or DNA when oligonucleotides, able to form intramolecular or intermolecular hairpin loops with recessed 3′ ends, are added to T7 RNA polymerase in the presence of at least one ribonucleotide triphosphate. Specific ribonucleotides are added to the recessed 3′ ends through Watson-Crick base pairing with the non-base paired nucleotide adjacent to the 3′ end. Optimization of this activity is obtained through alteration of the lengths of the 5′-extension, hairpin loop, and hairpin duplex. These properties define a T7 RNAP activity different from either transcriptional elongation or initiation.
Large-scale mass wasting on small volcanic islands revealed by the study of Flores Island (Azores)
Authors: Hildenbrand A. , Marques F. O. , Catalão J.
Published: September 2018

Small intra-plate volcanic islands (total height above seafloor <2500 m) have been considered gravitationally stable. Topographic, stratigraphic, structural and new K/Ar data show that the small island of Flores (Azores) is strongly asymmetric and made up of nested volcanic successions. Along the northwestern coastline, ca. 1.2 Ma lava flows are in lateral contact with a younger volcanic unit (ca. 0.7 Ma), reflecting the existence of a steep lateral discontinuity. From the general dip of the lava flows, their age and the arcuate geometry of the contact, we infer a major landslide that removed the western flank of the older volcano. Further inland, E-dipping lava flows at the summit of the island are ca. 1.3 Ma, suggesting another landslide structure that displaced the whole western half of the former volcanic edifice. Available offshore data show a large hummocky field west of Flores, here interpreted as voluminous debris-avalanche deposits. Unlike the eastern and central Azores islands, Flores sits on a relatively stable tectonic setting. Therefore, we propose that small-size volcanic islands can be sufficiently gravitationally unstable to experience recurrent episodes of large-scale mass wasting triggered by mechanisms other than tectonic earthquakes and thus represent an under-evaluated potential source of hazard and, therefore, risk.
Divergent action of fluoxetine in zebrafish according to responsivity to novelty
Authors: Fior Débora , Dametto Fernanda , Fagundes Michele , Santos da Rosa João Gabriel , Sander de Abreu Murilo , Koakoski Gessi , Idalencio Renan , de Alcântara Barcellos Heloísa Helena , Piato Angelo , Barcellos Leonardo José Gil
Published: September 2018

Here we show that the novel object recognition test can discriminate between high (HRN, neophobic) and low (LRN, neophilic) novelty responders in zebrafish populations. Especially when we observe the latency to the first entry in the novel object zone, zebrafish did not maintain these behavioral phenotypes in sequential tests and only the HRN group returned to their initial responsive behavior when exposed to fluoxetine. Our results have important implications for behavioral data analysis since such behavioral differences can potentially increase individual response variability and interfere with the outcomes obtained from various behavioral tasks. Our data reinforce the validity of personality determination in zebrafish since we show clear differences in behavior in response to fluoxetine.
Polyoxometalate-based microcrystal arrays patterned on air-grid superwettable surface
Authors: Zhang Tianzhan , Wang Yuefeng , Fan Jun-Bing , Meng Jingxin , Li Yangguang , Wang Enbo , Wang Shutao
Published: September 2018

Surface patterning of polyoxometalates (POMs) is an important step to gain functional materials and devices. However, some special requirements such as complex operation steps or strict synthesis environment greatly limit their further applications. Herein, we have employed a simple and universal strategy for patterning POM-based microcrystal arrays on air-grid superwettable surfaces. The size and distribution of POM crystals were precisely adjusted by varying the pillar parameter of superwettable surface and concentration of POM mother liquid. We envision that this POM patterning method may bring valuable insights for designing POM-based functional materials and devices.
Copper-to-copper direct bonding on highly (111)-oriented nanotwinned copper in no-vacuum ambient
Authors: Juang Jing-Ye , Lu Chia-Ling , Chen Kuan-Ju , Chen Chao-Chang A. , Hsu Po-Ning , Chen Chih , Tu K. N.
Published: September 2018

A vacuum-free Cu-to-Cu direct bonding by using (111)-oriented and nanotwinned Cu has been achieved. A fast bonding process occurs in 5 min under a temperature gradient between 450 and 100 °C. It is verified by grain growth across the bonded interface. To investigate the grain growth behavior, further annealing in the temperature gradient, as well as in a reversed temperature gradient, was performed. They showed similar recrystallization behavior with de-twinning. To analyze the de-twinning, we recall the classic model of annealing twin formation by Fullman and Fisher as comparison. Our case is opposite to the model of Fullman and Fisher. A mechanism of direct bonding by surface diffusion creep is proposed.
Effects of soiling on photovoltaic (PV) modules in the Atacama Desert
Authors: Cordero R. R. , Damiani A. , Laroze D. , MacDonell S. , Jorquera J. , Sepúlveda E. , Feron S. , Llanillo P. , Labbe F. , Carrasco J. , Ferrer J. , Torres G.
Published: September 2018

Soiling by dry deposition affects the power output of photovoltaic (PV) modules, especially under dry and arid conditions that favor natural atmospheric aerosols (wind-blown dust). In this paper, we report on measurements of the soiling effect on the energy yield of grid-connected crystalline silicon PV modules deployed in five cities across a north-south transect of approximately 1300 km in the Atacama Desert ranging from latitude 18°S to latitude 30°S. Energy losses were assessed by comparing side-by-side outputs of four co-planar PV modules. Two of the PV modules of the array were kept clean as a control, while we allowed the other two to naturally accumulate soiling for 12 months (from January 2017 to January 2018). We found that the combination of high deposition rates and infrequent rainfalls led to annual energy losses that peaked at 39% in the northern coastal part of the desert. In contrast, annual energy losses of 3% or less were measured at relatively high-altitude sites and also at locations in the southern part of the desert. For comparison, soiling-induced annual energy losses of about 7% were measured in Santiago, Chile (33°S), a major city with higher rainfall frequency but where urban pollution plays a significant role.
Grading facial expression is a sensitive means to detect grimace differences in orofacial pain in a rat model
Authors: Sperry Megan M. , Yu Ya-Hsin , Welch Rachel L. , Granquist Eric J. , Winkelstein Beth A.
Published: September 2018

Although pre-clinical models of pain are useful for defining relationships between biological mechanisms and pain, common methods testing peripheral sensitivity do not translate to the human pain experience. Facial grimace scales evaluate affective pain levels in rodent models by capturing and scoring spontaneous facial expression. But, the Rat Grimace Scale (RGS) has not assessed the common disorder of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain. A rat model of TMJ pain induced by jaw loading (1 hr/day for 7 days) was used to investigate the time course of RGS scores and compare them between different loading magnitudes with distinct peripheral sensitivity profiles (0N–no sensitivity, 2N–acute sensitivity, 3.5N–persistent sensitivity). In the 3.5N group, RGS is elevated over baseline during the loading period and one day after loading and is correlated with peripheral sensitivity (ρ = −0.48, p = 0.002). However, RGS is not elevated later when that group exhibits peripheral sensitivity and moderate TMJ condylar cartilage degeneration. Acutely, RGS is elevated in the 3.5N loading group over the other loading groups (p < 0.001). These findings suggest that RGS is an effective tool for detecting spontaneous TMJ pain and that spontaneous pain is detectable in rats that develop persistent TMJ sensitivity, but not in rats with acute resolving sensitivity.
A Supramolecular Approach for Enhanced Antibacterial Activity and Extended Shelf-life of Fluoroquinolone Drugs with Cucurbit[7]uril
Authors: El-Sheshtawy Hamdy S. , Chatterjee Suchandra , Assaf Khaleel I. , Shinde Meenakshi N. , Nau Werner M. , Mohanty Jyotirmayee
Published: September 2018

The host-guest interactions of a third-generation fluoroquinone, danofloxacin (DOFL), with the macrocyclic host cucurbit[7]uril (CB7) have been investigated at different pH values (~3.5, 7.5, and 10). The photophysical properties have been positively affected, that is, the fluorescence yield and lifetime increased, as well as the photostability of DOFL improved in the presence of CB7. The antibacterial activity of DOFL is enhanced in the presence of CB7, as tested against four pathogenic bacteria; highest activity has been found towards B. cereus and E. coli, and lower activity towards S. aureus and S. typhi. The antibacterial activity of two additional second-generation fluoroquinones, i.e., norfloxacin and ofloxacin, has also been investigated in the absence as well as the presence of CB7 and compared with that of DOFL. In case of all drugs, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was reduced 3–5 fold in the presence of CB7. The extended shelf-life (antibacterial activity over time) of the fluoroquinone drugs in the presence of CB7, irrespective of four types of bacteria, can be attributed to the enhanced photostability of their CB7 complexes, which can act as better antibiotics with a longer expiry date than uncomplexed DOFL.
Rotavirus-Induced Early Activation of the RhoA/ROCK/MLC Signaling Pathway Mediates the Disruption of Tight Junctions in Polarized MDCK Cells
Authors: Soliman Mahmoud , Cho Eun-Hyo , Park Jun-Gyu , Kim Ji-Yun , Alfajaro Mia Madel , Baek Yeong-Bin , Kim Deok-Song , Kang Mun-Il , Park Sang-Ik , Cho Kyoung-Oh
Published: September 2018

Intestinal epithelial tight junctions (TJ) are a major barrier restricting the entry of various harmful factors including pathogens; however, they also represent an important entry portal for pathogens. Although the rotavirus-induced early disruption of TJ integrity and targeting of TJ proteins as coreceptors are well-defined, the precise molecular mechanisms involved remain unknown. In the present study, infection of polarized MDCK cells with the species A rotavirus (RVA) strains human DS-1 and bovine NCDV induced a redistribution of TJ proteins into the cytoplasm, a reversible decrease in transepithelial resistance, and an increase in paracellular permeability. RhoA/ROCK/MLC signaling was identified as activated at an early stage of infection, while inhibition of this pathway prevented the rotavirus-induced early disruption of TJ integrity and alteration of TJ protein distribution. Activation of pMYPT, PKC, or MLCK, which are known to participate in TJ dissociation, was not observed in MDCK cells infected with either rotavirus strain. Our data demonstrated that binding of RVA virions or cogent VP8* proteins to cellular receptors activates RhoA/ROCK/MLC signaling, which alters TJ protein distribution and disrupts TJ integrity via contraction of the perijunctional actomyosin ring, facilitating virion access to coreceptors and entry into cells.
Brcal Defective Breast Cancer Cells Induce in vitro Transformation of Cancer Associated Fibroblasts (CAFs) to Metastasis Associated Fibroblasts (MAF)
Authors: Hemalatha Sreelatha K. , Sengodan Satheesh Kumar , Nadhan Revathy , Dev Jithin , Sushama Reshma R. , Somasundaram Veena , Thankappan Ratheeshkumar , Rajan Arathi , Latha Neetha Rajan , Varghese Geetu Rose , Mathew Arun Peter , Somanathan Thara , Srinivas Priya
Published: September 2018

It is known that Cancer Associated Fibroblast (CAFs) from the primary tumor site can accompany cancer cells to a secondary site during the process of metastasis. We hypothesize that these CAFs could be transformed to an altered cell type, which can be called as Metastasis Associated Fibroblasts (MAF) in turn can support, and convoy cancer cells for metastasis. There are no published reports that have characterized and distinguished CAFs from MAF. It is well established that some of the cancer cells within the tumor mass accumulate novel mutations prior to metastasis. Hence, we speculated that mutations in the tumor suppressor gene, BRCA1, which is already reported to induce metastasis via abnormal expression of Ezrin, Radixin and Moesin (ERM), could generate MAF. In the present study, we demonstrate for the first time that CAFs isolated from primary breast cancer tissues when co-cultured with BRCA1 mutated HCC1937 cells transform CAFs to MAF in vitro. As expected, MAF augmented proliferation, migration and invasion along with over-expression of epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers, Ezrin and CCL5, thereby facilitating metastasis. Therefore, we inhibited Ezrin and CCL5 in vitro in MAF and observed that the migration and invasion abilities of these cells were attenuated. This highlights the intriguing possibilities of combination therapy using MAF inhibitors as anti-metastatic agents along with anticancer drugs, to control the metastatic spread from primary tumor site.
Origin of extremely large magnetoresistance in the candidate type-II Weyl semimetal MoTe2−x
Authors: Lee Sangyun , Jang Jaekyung , Kim Sung-Il , Jung Soon-Gil , Kim Jihyun , Cho Suyeon , Kim Sung Wng , Rhee Joo Yull , Park Kee-Su , Park Tuson
Published: September 2018

The recent observation of extremely large magnetoresistance (MR) in the transition-metal dichalcogenide MoTe2 has attracted considerable interest due to its potential technological applications as well as its relationship with novel electronic states predicted for a candidate type-II Weyl semimetal. In order to understand the origin of the MR, the electronic structure of MoTe2−x (x = 0.08) is systematically tuned by application of pressure and probed via its Hall and longitudinal conductivities. With increasing pressure, a monoclinic-to-orthorhombic (1 T′ to Td) structural phase transition temperature (T*) gradually decreases from 210 K at 1 bar to 58 K at 1.1 GPa, and there is no anomaly associated with the phase transition at 1.4 GPa, indicating that a T = 0 K quantum phase transition occurs at a critical pressure (Pc) between 1.1 and 1.4 GPa. The large MR observed at 1 bar is suppressed with increasing pressure and is almost saturated at 100% for P > Pc. The dependence on magnetic field of the Hall and longitudinal conductivities of MoTe2−x shows that a pair of electron and hole bands are important in the low-pressure Td phase, while another pair of electron and hole bands are additionally required in the high-pressure 1 T′ phase. The MR peaks at a characteristic hole-to-electron concentration ratio (nc) and is sharply suppressed when the ratio deviates from nc within the Td phase. These results establish the comprehensive temperature-pressure phase diagram of MoTe2−x and underscore that its MR originates from balanced electron-hole carrier concentrations.
Comparison of Significant Carotid Stenosis for Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma between Intensity-Modulated Radiotherapy and Conventional Two-Dimensional Radiotherapy
Authors: Liao Wang , Zhou Haihong , Fan Shengnuo , Zheng Yuqiu , Zhang Bei , Zhao Zhongyan , Xiao Songhua , Bai Shoumin , Liu Jun
Published: September 2018

Radiotherapy (RT) serves as the most efficient treatment for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) and can cause carotid stenosis. This work compared the incidence of significant carotid stenosis between intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and two-dimensional conventional radiotherapy (2D-RT) for NPC and explored the risk factors. We retrospectively reviewed 233 cases with NPC who underwent carotid ultrasound post IMRT or 2D-RT from 2006 to 2015. The incidence of significant stenosis after RT was 19.3%. Significant stenosis was identified in 20 (14.6%) of 137 patients treated with IMRT and 25 (26.0%) of 96 patients with 2D-RT, respectively (p = 0.035). Multivariate logistic analysis indicated age (odds ratio = 1.054, 95% CI = 1.011–1.099, p = 0.014), radiation technique (IMRT) (odds ratio = 0.471, 95%CI = 0.241–0.919, p = 0.027) and time interval (odds ratio = 1.068, 95%CI = 1.033–1.105, p = 0.001) as independent predictors for significant carotid stenosis. Our study suggests that IMRT was associated with decreased incidence of significant carotid stenosis versus 2D-RT for NPC. Prevention and carotid ultrasound should be considered for older NPC survivors with longer interval from RT, especially those treated with 2D-RT.
Whole genome sequencing data for two individuals of Pakistani descent
Authors: Khan Shahid Y. , Kabir Firoz , M’Hamdi Oussama , Jiao Xiaodong , Naeem Muhammad Asif , Khan Shaheen N. , Riazuddin Sheikh , Hejtmancik J. Fielding , Riazuddin S. Amer
Published: September 2018

Here we report next-generation based whole genome sequencing of two individuals (H1 and H2) from a family of Pakistani descent. The genomic DNA was used to prepare paired-end libraries for whole-genome sequencing. Deep sequencing yielded 706.49 and 778.12 million mapped reads corresponding to 70.64 and 77.81 Gb sequence data and 23× and 25× average coverage for H1 and H2, respectively. Notably, a total of 448,544 and 470,683 novel variants, not present in the single nucleotide polymorphism database (dbSNP), were identified in H1 and H2, respectively. Comparative analysis identified 2,415,852 variants common in both genomes including 240,181 variants absent in the dbSNP. Principal component analysis linked the ancestry of both genomes with South Asian populations. In conclusion, we report whole genome sequences of two individuals from a family of Pakistani descent.
Single-cell RNA sequencing of adult mouse testes
Authors: Lukassen Soeren , Bosch Elisabeth , Ekici Arif B. , Winterpacht Andreas
Published: September 2018

Spermatogenesis is an efficient and complex system of continuous cell differentiation. Previous studies investigating the transcriptomes of different cell populations in the testis relied either on sorting cells, cell depletion, or juvenile animals where not all stages of spermatogenesis have been completed. We present single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-Seq) data of 2,500 cells from the testes of two 8-week-old C57Bl/6J mice. Our dataset includes all spermatogenic stages from preleptotene to condensing spermatids as well as individual spermatogonia, Sertoli and Leydig cells. The data capture the full continuity of the meiotic and postmeiotic stages of spermatogenesis, and is thus ideally suited for marker discovery, network inference and similar analyses for which temporal ordering of differentiation processes can be exploited. Furthermore, it can serve as a reference for future studies involving single-cell RNA-Seq in mice where spermatogenesis is perturbed.
Multiple reaction monitoring (MRM)-profiling with biomarker identification by LC-QTOF to characterize coronary artery disease
Authors: Yannell Karen E. , Ferreira Christina R. , Tichy Shane E. , Cooks R. Graham
Published: September 2018

Coronary artery disease serum samples are classified by functional group profiling using multiple reaction monitoring.
Highly sensitive and multiplexed miRNA analysis based on digitally encoded silica microparticles coupled with RCA-based cascade amplification
Authors: Liu Shengquan , Fang Han , Sun Chengjiao , Wang Nana , Li Jiong
Published: September 2018

Multiple miRNA sensitive analysis by coupling digitally encoded silica microparticles with RCA-based cascade amplification.
Raman spectroscopy as a tool for tracking cyclopropane fatty acids in genetically engineeredSaccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Kochan Kamila , Peng Huadong , Gwee Eunice S. H. , Izgorodina Ekaterina , Haritos Victoria , Wood Bayden R.
Published: September 2018

We demonstrate the first spectrum of cyclopropane fatty acid and track its presence in yeast using Raman spectroscopy and PLS-DA.
A boronate affinity MIP-based resonance light scattering sensor for sensitive detection of glycoproteins
Authors: Qin Yanru , Xie Jingfan , Li Shuting , Cai Changqun , Chen Xiaoming , Zhong Guanqun , Chen Chunyan
Published: September 2018

A boronate affinity MIP-based resonant light scattering sensor for sensitive detection of glycoproteins.
Analysis of illicit drugs and pharmaceuticals in edible seaweeds by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Helou Anthony M. , Keefe Michael , Mottaleb Musavvir Arafat , Thomson William J. , Mottaleb M. Abdul
Published: September 2018

Drugs taken by humans and animals can end up in the hydrosphere.
Several fluorescent probes based on hemicyanine for the detection of SO2 derivatives
Authors: Li Xue , Jin Di , Du Yuchao , Liu Ying , Wang Bowei , Chen Ligong
Published: September 2018

Three new fluorescent probes for sensitive, selective and rapid detection of SO2 derivatives and visual detection of SO2 gas.
pH-Sensitive micelles with mitochondria-targeted and aggregation-induced emission characterization: synthesis, cytotoxicity and biological applications
Authors: Li Jieming , Liu Yan , Li Huilan , Shi Wei , Bi Xinzhou , Qiu Qianqian , Zhang Bo , Huang Wenlong , Qian Hai
Published: September 2018

Subcellular organelle-specific reagents for simultaneous tumor targeting, imaging, and treatment are of enormous interest in cancer therapy.
Ultrasound-induced gelation of a giant macrocycle
Authors: Núñez-Villanueva Diego , Jinks Michael A. , Gómez Magenti Jorge , Hunter Christopher A.
Published: September 2018

Supramolecular gelation of a 68-membered macrocycle triggered by sonication.
Exploration of the synthesis of three types of multicolor carbon dot originating from isomers
Authors: Wang Yingyi , Su Qian , Yang Xiaoming
Published: September 2018

Herein, we have synthesized three types of CD with multicolor emission derived from isomers.
A facile route to 1H- and 2H-indazoles from readily accessible acyl hydrazides by exploiting a novel aryne-based molecular rearrangement
Authors: Shamsabadi André , Chudasama Vijay
Published: September 2018

A facile procedure for the conversion of readily accessible acyl hydrazides into 1H and 2H-indazoles via a novel aryne-based molecular rearrangement pathway.
A smart off–on copper sulfide photoacoustic imaging agent based on amorphous–crystalline transition for cancer imaging
Authors: Feng Qunfeng , Xu Yanjun , Hu Bing , An Lu , Lin Jiaomin , Tian Qiwei , Yang Shiping
Published: September 2018

By exploiting the amorphous–crystalline transition of CuS, which results in greatly increased absorption throughout the entire near-infrared region, a novel smart off–on CuS photoacoustic imaging agent with good photostability and low cost is developed.
Cp*Co(iii)-Catalyzed oxidative [5+2] annulation: regioselective synthesis of 2-aminobenzoxepines via C–H/O–H functionalization of 2-vinylphenols with ynamides
Authors: Han Xiang-Lei , Liu Xu-Ge , Lin E , Chen Yunyun , Chen Zhuangzhong , Wang Honggen , Li Qingjiang
Published: September 2018

A Cp*Co(iii)-catalyzed [5+2] C–H annulation reaction of 2-vinylphenols with ynamides toward the regioselective synthesis of 2-aminobenzoxepines has been reported.
Lewis acid-catalyzed Friedel–Crafts reactions toward highly versatile, α-quaternary oxime ethers
Authors: Schlegel Marcel , Schneider Christoph
Published: September 2018

Tertiary 2-hydroxy oxime ethers are converted into α-functionalized, all-carbon-substituted products under Lewis acid catalysis in a SN1-reaction.
Synthesis and photoluminescence properties of novel core–shell–shell SiO2@CePO4:Tb@SiO2 submicro-spheres
Authors: Yang Kui-Suo , Li Yi-Lian , Ma Yang-Yang , Feng Li-Na , Wu An-Ping , Qiao Yan , Bao Jin-Rong , Li Wen-Xian , Zhu Xiao-Wei , Yu Ran-Bo
Published: September 2018

The low-cost preparation of the core–shell–shell SiO2@CePO4:Tb@SiO2 was achieved, and the biocompatibility was improved with the use of SiO2.
Estimation of diffusive states from single-particle trajectory in heterogeneous medium using machine-learning methods
Authors: Matsuda Yu , Hanasaki Itsuo , Iwao Ryo , Yamaguchi Hiroki , Niimi Tomohide
Published: September 2018

We propose a novel approach to analyze random walks in heterogeneous medium using a hybrid machine-learning method based on a gamma mixture and a hidden Markov model.
Fluctuations near the liquid–liquid transition in a model of silica
Authors: Guo Jingxiang , Palmer Jeremy C.
Published: September 2018

Molecular dynamics simulations reveal anomalous small-angle scattering and liquid–liquid phase separation in an ionic model of silica.
Charged impurity-tuning of midgap states in biased Bernal bilayer black phosphorus: an anisotropic electronic phase transition
Authors: Le P. T. T. , Mirabbaszadeh K. , Davoudiniya M. , Yarmohammadi M.
Published: September 2018

Tuning of the electronic phase of Bernal bilayer black phosphorus was investigated using a charged impurity and an electric field beyond the continuum approximation: the Green's function technique.
How do the hydrocarbon chain length and hydroxyl group position influence the solute dynamics in alcohol-based deep eutectic solvents?
Authors: Hossain Sk Saddam , Samanta Anunay
Published: September 2018

Effect of the hydrocarbon chain length and hydroxyl group position of hydrogen bond donor on the microscopic solution structure and diffusion dynamics of solutes is studied in a series of choline chloride/alcohol based deep eutectic solvents using ensemble and single-molecule measurements.
Anchoring of carboxyl-functionalized porphyrins on MgO, TiO2, and Co3O4 nanoparticles
Authors: Kollhoff Fabian , Schneider Johannes , Li Gao , Barkaoui Sami , Shen Wenjie , Berger Thomas , Diwald Oliver , Libuda Jörg
Published: September 2018

The adsorption of porphyrin derivatives on different, well-defined oxide nanoparticles and their temperature-dependent metalation was investigated using in situ DRIFTS.
Electronic structure of the para-dinitrobenzene radical anion: a combined 2D photoelectron imaging and computational study
Authors: Anstöter Cate S. , Gartmann Thomas E. , Stanley Laurence H. , Bochenkova Anastasia V. , Verlet Jan R. R.
Published: September 2018

2D photoelectron spectroscopy combined with high-level ab initio calculations provides insights into the dissociative electron attachment of para-dinitrobenzene.
Towardsoperandocomputational modeling in heterogeneous catalysis
Authors: Grajciar Lukáš , Heard Christopher J. , Bondarenko Anton A. , Polynski Mikhail V. , Meeprasert Jittima , Pidko Evgeny A. , Nachtigall Petr
Published: September 2018

An increased synergy between experimental and theoretical investigations in heterogeneous catalysis has become apparent during the last decade.
Chemoselective reduction of heteroarenes with a reduced graphene oxide supported rhodium nanoparticle catalyst
Authors: Karakulina Alena , Gopakumar Aswin , Fei Zhaofu , Dyson Paul J.
Published: September 2018

Rhodium nanoparticles immobilized on reduced graphene oxide catalyze the selective hydrogenation of N- and O-containing heteroarenes.
Synthesis of novel hierarchically porous NiMo/ZSM-5-KIT-5 catalysts and their superior performance in hydrodenitrogenation of quinoline
Authors: Meng Qian , Duan Aijun , Xu Chunming , Zhao Zhen , Li Jianmei , Wang Bo , Liu Cong , Hu Di , Li Haidong , Li Yuyang
Published: September 2018

ZSM-5-KIT-5 (Zk) materials with different amounts of ZSM-5 emulsion were successfully synthesized by a nano self-assembly method.
Dry reforming of methane over Co–Mo/Al2O3 catalyst under low microwave power irradiation
Authors: Nguyen Hoang M. , Pham Gia Hung , Ran Ran , Vagnoni Robert , Pareek Vishnu , Liu Shaomin
Published: September 2018

In this work, microwave (MW) irradiation was used to activate Co/Al2O3, Mo/Al2O3, and Co–Mo/Al2O3 catalysts for dry reforming of methane (DRM) reactions.
A novel luminescent hybrid material based on zinc complexes and graphene oxides for detection of Fe3+ in aqueous media
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxiong , Zhang Shaopei , Zhang Wenjun
Published: September 2018

A novel GOS-modified zinc complex probe with water dispersibility is designed to detect Fe3+ in aqueous media (Stern–Volmer constant KSV = 4 × 106 L mol−1).
Theoretical studies on the mechanism of Pd2+-catalyzed regioselective C–H acylation of azoxybenzenes with α-oxocarboxylic acids
Authors: Hu Po , Wang Shaowei , Wang YouJia , Deng Chao , Zhang Weihua
Published: September 2018

The reaction mechanism of the Pd2+-catalyzed regioselective C(sp2)–H acylation of azoxybenzenes with α-oxocarboxylic acids has been studied by density functional theory (DFT) calculations.
Selective formation of a two-dimensional coordination polymer based on a tridentate phospholane ligand and gold(i)
Authors: Hoy Reinhard , Lönnecke Peter , Hey-Hawkins Evamarie
Published: September 2018

The tridentate phosphine ligand 1,3,5-tris[(E)-(4-phospho-lano-2,6-diethyl)styryl]benzene reacts with [AuCl(tht)] independent of the stoichiometry employed with selective formation of a 2D coordination polymer (ratio 1 : 1) with gold(i) in a trigonal-planar [3 + 1] coordination geometry.
Influence of light wavelength on the photoactivity, physicochemical transformation, and fate of graphene oxide in aqueous media
Authors: Du Tingting , Adeleye Adeyemi S. , Zhang Tong , Jiang Chuanjia , Zhang Min , Wang Huihui , Li Yao , Keller Arturo A. , Chen Wei
Published: September 2018

The physicochemical characteristics of GO are significantly changed under the UV/vis fraction of solar light, which affects GO's environmental fate.
Surface-optimized core–shell nanocomposites (Fe3O4@MnxFeyO4) for ultra-high uranium sorption and low-field separation in water
Authors: Kim Changwoo , Lee Seung Soo , Reinhart Benjamin J. , Cho Minjung , Lafferty Brandon J. , Li Wenlu , Fortner John D.
Published: September 2018

In this work, we systematically design and synthesize manganese ferrite coated superparamagnetic magnetite nanocrystals, with oleylphosphate bilayer surface coatings (Fe3O4@MnxFeyO4@OP), for ultra high capacity uranium sorption and low-field magnetic-based separation in water.
Artificial water channels: inspiration, progress, and challenges
Authors: Gong Bing
Published: September 2018

Developing bioinspired artificial water channels may lead to the next-generation filtration membranes with ultra-high pore density and exclusive water permeability.
Towards organogenesis and morphogenesisin vitro: harnessing engineered microenvironment and autonomous behaviors of pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Li Ningwei , Xie Tianfa , Sun Yubing
Published: September 2018

Combining engineering approaches with autonomous behaviors of stem cells could lead to organotypic cultures that better mimic the development processesin vivoboth anatomically and physiologically.
Curvature facilitates podocyte culture in a biomimetic platform
Authors: Korolj Anastasia , Laschinger Carol , James Chris , Hu Erding , Velikonja Claire , Smith Nathaniel , Gu Irene , Ahadian Samad , Willette Robert , Radisic Milica , Zhang Boyang
Published: September 2018

Versatile fabrication of capillary-mimicking microtopography creates substrates that support higher-fidelity podocyte differentiationin vitro.
An automatedin vitromotility assay for high-throughput studies of molecular motors
Authors: Korten Till , Tavkin Elena , Scharrel Lara , Kushwaha Vandana Singh , Diez Stefan
Published: September 2018

Molecular motors, essential to force-generation and cargo transport within cells, are invaluable tools for powering nanobiotechnological lab-on-a-chip devices.
Open multi-culture platform for simple and flexible study of multi-cell type interactions
Authors: Álvarez-García Yasmín R. , Ramos-Cruz Karla P. , Agostini-Infanzón Reinaldo J. , Stallcop Loren E. , Beebe David J. , Warrick Jay W. , Domenech Maribella
Published: September 2018

The study of multi-cell-type (MCT) interactions has the potential to significantly impact our understanding of tissue and disease biology.
A novel aggregation-induced-emission-active supramolecular organogel for the detection of volatile acid vapors
Authors: Yang Xiaoli , Liu Yejing , Li Jiaheng , Wang Qi , Yang Ming , Li Cong
Published: September 2018

A novel supramolecular organogel with AIE properties was synthesized and applied for sensing volatile acid vapors with excellent performance.
Fried egg-like Au mesostructures grown on poly(4-vinylpyridine) brushes grafted onto graphene oxide
Authors: Feng Lihua , Wang Ke , Li Ping , Wang Wenqin , Chen Tao
Published: September 2018

Hierarchical Au mesostructures as SERS-active substrates were facilely fabricated by the reduction of HAuCl4-loaded poly(4-vinylpyridine) brushes with ascorbic acid.
Efficient heterogeneous hydroboration of alkynes: enhancing the catalytic activity by Cu(0) incorporated CuFe2O4 nanoparticles
Authors: Zeng Xianghua , Gong Chunhua , Guo Haiyang , Xu Hao , Zhang Junyong , Xie Jingli
Published: September 2018

Nano-copper ferrite supported Cu catalysts are active for hydroboration of alkynes to vinylboronates.
Packing polymorphism in 3-amino-2-pyrazinecarboxylate based tin(ii) complexes and their catalytic activity towards cyanosilylation of aldehydes
Authors: Karmakar Anirban , Hazra Susanta , Rúbio Guilherme M. D. M. , Guedes da Silva M. Fátima C. , Pombeiro Armando J. L.
Published: September 2018

3-Amino-2-pyrazinecarboxylic acid is used to synthesize two new mononuclear interconvertible packing polymorphs of tin(ii) which act as heterogeneous catalysts for the cyanosilylation of aldehydes with trimethylsilyl cyanide.
Specific enzymatic synthesis of 2,3-diaminophenazine and copper nanoclusters used for dual-emission ratiometric and naked-eye visual fluorescence sensing of choline
Authors: Bu Xiangning , Fu Yongxin , Jin Hui , Gui Rijun
Published: September 2018

This work reports a novel biosensor for dual-emission ratiometric and visual fluorescence detection of choline.
Metal–organic frameworks induce autophagy in mouse embryonic fibroblast cells
Authors: Shen Sensen , Li Linnan , Li Songyue , Bai Yu , Liu Huwei
Published: September 2018

Autophagy is the lysosomal-dependent degradation process of intracellular substances in adaptation to environmental or developmental changes. A classic MOFs Fe-MIL-101_NH2 was revealed to induce cytoprotective autophagy in mouse embryonic fibroblast cells (MEFs).
Fast naked-eye detection of zinc ions by molecular assembly-assisted polymerization of diacetylene
Authors: Zhang Yiming , Pan Yu-Chen , Wang Youzhi , Guo Dong-Sheng , Gao Jie , Yang Zhimou
Published: September 2018

A new strategy for developing portable rapid ion detection technology by the coupling of topochemical polymerization and supramolecular (SM) self-assembly.
Machine learning and artificial neural network prediction of interfacial thermal resistance between graphene and hexagonal boron nitride
Authors: Yang Hong , Zhang Zhongtao , Zhang Jingchao , Zeng Xiao Cheng
Published: September 2018

Several machine learning algorithms and artificial neural network structures are used to predict the interfacial thermal resistance between single layer graphene and hexagonal boron nitride with only the knowledge of the system temperature, inter-layer coupling strength, and in-plane tensile strain.
High-performance transparent pressure sensors based on sea-urchin shaped metal nanoparticles and polyurethane microdome arrays for real-time monitoring
Authors: Lee Donghwa , Kim Jongyoun , Kim Honggi , Heo Hyojung , Park Kyutae , Lee Youngu
Published: September 2018

High-performance transparent pressure sensors have been successfully fabricated using sea-urchin shaped metal nanoparticles and polyurethane microdome arrays for real-time monitoring.
Improved performance of CsPbBr3 perovskite light-emitting devices by both boundary and interface defects passivation
Authors: Song Li , Guo Xiaoyang , Hu Yongsheng , Lv Ying , Lin Jie , Fan Yi , Zhang Nan , Liu Xingyuan
Published: September 2018

Significantly enhanced luminance and current efficiency for inorganic light-emitting devices have been obtained by tetrabutylammonium bromide (TBAB) as both additive into perovskite precursors and interface modification.
Oxygen plasmas: a sharp chisel and handy trowel for nanofabrication
Authors: Bazaka K. , Baranov O. , Cvelbar U. , Podgornik B. , Wang Y. , Huang S. , Xu L. , Lim J. W. M. , Levchenko I. , Xu S.
Published: September 2018

Oxygen plasmas feature certain properties that make them attractive not only for material removalviaetching and sputtering, but also for driving and sustaining nucleation and growth of various nanostructures in plasma bulk and on plasma-exposed surfaces.