bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ionic thermoelectric gating organic transistors
Authors: Zhao Dan , Fabiano Simone , Berggren Magnus , Crispin Xavier
Published: January 2017

Temperature is one of the most important environmental stimuli to record and amplify. While traditional thermoelectric materials are attractive for temperature/heat flow sensing applications, their sensitivity is limited by their low Seebeck coefficient (∼100 μV K−1). Here we take advantage of the large ionic thermoelectric Seebeck coefficient found in polymer electrolytes (∼10,000 μV K−1) to introduce the concept of ionic thermoelectric gating a low-voltage organic transistor. The temperature sensing amplification of such ionic thermoelectric-gated devices is thousands of times superior to that of a single thermoelectric leg in traditional thermopiles. This suggests that ionic thermoelectric sensors offer a way to go beyond the limitations of traditional thermopiles and pyroelectric detectors. These findings pave the way for new infrared-gated electronic circuits with potential applications in photonics, thermography and electronic-skins.
Genome-wide association study of prostate-specific antigen levels identifies novel loci independent of prostate cancer
Authors: Hoffmann Thomas J. , Passarelli Michael N. , Graff Rebecca E. , Emami Nima C. , Sakoda Lori C. , Jorgenson Eric , Habel Laurel A. , Shan Jun , Ranatunga Dilrini K. , Quesenberry Charles P. , Chao Chun R. , Ghai Nirupa R. , Aaronson David , Presti Joseph , Nordström Tobias , Wang Zhaoming , Berndt Sonja I. , Chanock Stephen J. , Mosley Jonathan D. , Klein Robert J. , Middha Mridu , Lilja Hans , Melander Olle , Kvale Mark N. , Kwok Pui-Yan , Schaefer Catherine , Risch Neil , Van Den Eeden Stephen K. , Witte John S.
Published: January 2017

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels have been used for detection and surveillance of prostate cancer (PCa). However, factors other than PCa—such as genetics—can impact PSA. Here we present findings from a genome-wide association study (GWAS) of PSA in 28,503 Kaiser Permanente whites and 17,428 men from replication cohorts. We detect 40 genome-wide significant (P<5 × 10−8) single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs): 19 novel, 15 previously identified for PSA (14 of which were also PCa-associated), and 6 previously identified for PCa only. Further analysis incorporating PCa cases suggests that at least half of the 40 SNPs are PSA-associated independent of PCa. The 40 SNPs explain 9.5% of PSA variation in non-Hispanic whites, and the remaining GWAS SNPs explain an additional 31.7%; this percentage is higher in younger men, supporting the genetic basis of PSA levels. These findings provide important information about genetic markers for PSA that may improve PCa screening, thereby reducing over-diagnosis and over-treatment.
Pancancer modelling predicts the context-specific impact of somatic mutations on transcriptional programs
Authors: Osmanbeyoglu Hatice U. , Toska Eneda , Chan Carmen , Baselga José , Leslie Christina S.
Published: January 2017

Pancancer studies have identified many genes that are frequently somatically altered across multiple tumour types, suggesting that pathway-targeted therapies can be deployed across diverse cancers. However, the same ‘actionable mutation’ impacts distinct context-specific gene regulatory programs and signalling networks—and interacts with different genetic backgrounds of co-occurring alterations—in different cancers. Here we apply a computational strategy for integrating parallel (phospho)proteomic and mRNA sequencing data across 12 TCGA tumour data sets to interpret the context-specific impact of somatic alterations in terms of functional signatures such as (phospho)protein and transcription factor (TF) activities. Our analysis predicts distinct dysregulated transcriptional regulators downstream of somatic alterations in different cancers, and we validate the context-specific differential activity of TFs associated to mutant PIK3CA in isogenic cancer cell line models. These results have implications for the pancancer use of targeted drugs and potentially for the design of combination therapies.
Graphene-based mid-infrared room-temperature pyroelectric bolometers with ultrahigh temperature coefficient of resistance
Authors: Sassi U. , Parret R. , Nanot S. , Bruna M. , Borini S. , De Fazio D. , Zhao Z. , Lidorikis E. , Koppens F.H.L. , Ferrari A. C. , Colli A.
Published: January 2017

There is a growing number of applications demanding highly sensitive photodetectors in the mid-infrared. Thermal photodetectors, such as bolometers, have emerged as the technology of choice, because they do not need cooling. The performance of a bolometer is linked to its temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR, ∼2–4% K−1 for state-of-the-art materials). Graphene is ideally suited for optoelectronic applications, with a variety of reported photodetectors ranging from visible to THz frequencies. For the mid-infrared, graphene-based detectors with TCRs ∼4–11% K−1 have been demonstrated. Here we present an uncooled, mid-infrared photodetector, where the pyroelectric response of a LiNbO3 crystal is transduced with high gain (up to 200) into resistivity modulation for graphene. This is achieved by fabricating a floating metallic structure that concentrates the pyroelectric charge on the top-gate capacitor of the graphene channel, leading to TCRs up to 900% K−1, and the ability to resolve temperature variations down to 15 μK.
Time-resolved monitoring of biofouling development on a flat sheet membrane using optical coherence tomography
Authors: Fortunato Luca , Jeong Sanghyun , Leiknes TorOve
Published: January 2017

Biofouling on a membrane leads to significant performance decrease in filtration processes. In this study, an optical coherence tomography (OCT) was used to perform a time-resolved analysis of dynamic biofouling development on a submerged membrane under continuous operation. A real-time change in the biofouling morphology was calculated through the image analysis of OCT scans. Three videos were generated through the acquisition of serial static images. This is the first study that displays the dynamic biofouling formation process as a video. The acquisition of OCT cross-sectional scans of the biofouling allowed to evaluate the time-lapsed evolution for three different time periods (early stage, double layers and long-term). Firstly, at the early filtration stage, membrane coverage and average biofouling layer thickness were found to be linearly correlated with the permeate flux pattern. Secondly, after 3 d of operation, an anomalous morphology was observed, constituted by a double-layered biofouling structure: denser on the bottom and looser on the top. In a long-term operation, the biofouling structure underwent a dynamic evolution over time, resulting in a multi-layered structure. The biofouling formation information was closely associated with filtration performance (i.e. flux) indicating the suitability of OCT as real-time and in-situ biofouling monitoring technique.
Control of Neuropeptide Expression by Parallel Activity-dependent Pathways in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Rojo Romanos Teresa , Petersen Jakob Gramstrup , Pocock Roger
Published: January 2017

Monitoring of neuronal activity within circuits facilitates integrated responses and rapid changes in behavior. We have identified a system in Caenorhabditis elegans where neuropeptide expression is dependent on the ability of the BAG neurons to sense carbon dioxide. In C. elegans, CO2 sensing is predominantly coordinated by the BAG-expressed receptor-type guanylate cyclase GCY-9. GCY-9 binding to CO2 causes accumulation of cyclic GMP and opening of the cGMP-gated TAX-2/TAX-4 cation channels; provoking an integrated downstream cascade that enables C. elegans to avoid high CO2. Here we show that cGMP regulation by GCY-9 and the PDE-1 phosphodiesterase controls BAG expression of a FMRFamide-related neuropeptide FLP-19 reporter (flp-19::GFP). This regulation is specific for CO2-sensing function of the BAG neurons, as loss of oxygen sensing function does not affect flp-19::GFP expression. We also found that expression of flp-19::GFP is controlled in parallel to GCY-9 by the activity-dependent transcription factor CREB (CRH-1) and the cAMP-dependent protein kinase (KIN-2) signaling pathway. We therefore show that two parallel pathways regulate neuropeptide gene expression in the BAG sensory neurons: the ability to sense changes in carbon dioxide and CREB transcription factor. Such regulation may be required in particular environmental conditions to enable sophisticated behavioral decisions to be performed.
Genetic algorithm for the optimization of features and neural networks in ECG signals classification
Authors: Li Hongqiang , Yuan Danyang , Ma Xiangdong , Cui Dianyin , Cao Lu
Published: January 2017

Feature extraction and classification of electrocardiogram (ECG) signals are necessary for the automatic diagnosis of cardiac diseases. In this study, a novel method based on genetic algorithm-back propagation neural network (GA-BPNN) for classifying ECG signals with feature extraction using wavelet packet decomposition (WPD) is proposed. WPD combined with the statistical method is utilized to extract the effective features of ECG signals. The statistical features of the wavelet packet coefficients are calculated as the feature sets. GA is employed to decrease the dimensions of the feature sets and to optimize the weights and biases of the back propagation neural network (BPNN). Thereafter, the optimized BPNN classifier is applied to classify six types of ECG signals. In addition, an experimental platform is constructed for ECG signal acquisition to supply the ECG data for verifying the effectiveness of the proposed method. The GA-BPNN method with the MIT-BIH arrhythmia database achieved a dimension reduction of nearly 50% and produced good classification results with an accuracy of 97.78%. The experimental results based on the established acquisition platform indicated that the GA-BPNN method achieved a high classification accuracy of 99.33% and could be efficiently applied in the automatic identification of cardiac arrhythmias.
Mx1, OAS1 and OAS2 polymorphisms are associated with the severity of liver disease in HIV/HCV-coinfected patients: A cross-sectional study
Authors: García-Álvarez Mónica , Berenguer Juan , Jiménez-Sousa María A. , Pineda-Tenor Daniel , Aldámiz-Echevarria Teresa , Tejerina Francisco , Diez Cristina , Vázquez-Morón Sonia , Resino Salvador
Published: January 2017

The mechanisms involved in the chronic hepatitis C progression are incompletely understood. The aim was to analyze the association between 2′5′oligoadenylate synthetase 1,2 and 3 (OAS1-3) and myxovirus resistance proteins 1 (Mx1) polymorphisms and severity of liver disease in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/hepatitis C virus (HCV) coinfected patients. We performed a cross-sectional study in 219 patients that underwent a liver biopsy. DNA genotyping for Mx1 (rs469390), OAS1 (rs2285934), OAS2 (rs1293762) and OAS3 (rs2010604) was performed by using GoldenGate assay. The outcome variables ion liver biopsy were: (i) significant fibrosis (F ≥ 2); (ii) moderate activity grade (A ≥ 2). Additive model of inheritance for genetic association test was used. The likelihood of having significant fibrosis (F ≥ 2) was lower in patients carrying OAS2 rs1293762 A allele [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 0.51; p = 0.040]. Besides, the likelihood of having moderate activity grade (A ≥ 2) was higher in patients carrying Mx1 rs464397 C allele (aOR = 1.63; p = 0.028) and Mx1 rs469390 G allele (aOR = 1.97; p = 0.005), while it was lower in patients carrying OAS1 rs2285934 A allele (aOR = 0.64; p = 0.039) and OAS2 rs1293762 A allele (aOR = 0.41; p = 0.009). In conclusion, Mx1 and OAS1-2 polymorphisms were associated with the severity of liver disease in HIV/HCV-coinfected patients, suggesting a significant role in the progression of hepatic fibrosis.
Drosophila CG3303 is an essential endoribonuclease linked to TDP-43-mediated neurodegeneration
Authors: Laneve Pietro , Piacentini Lucia , Casale Assunta Maria , Capauto Davide , Gioia Ubaldo , Cappucci Ugo , Di Carlo Valerio , Bozzoni Irene , Di Micco Patrizio , Morea Veronica , Di Franco Carmela Antonia , Caffarelli Elisa
Published: January 2017

Endoribonucleases participate in almost every step of eukaryotic RNA metabolism, acting either as degradative or biosynthetic enzymes. We previously identified the founding member of the Eukaryotic EndoU ribonuclease family, whose components display unique biochemical features and are flexibly involved in important biological processes, such as ribosome biogenesis, tumorigenesis and viral replication. Here we report the discovery of the CG3303 gene product, which we named DendoU, as a novel family member in Drosophila. Functional characterisation revealed that DendoU is essential for Drosophila viability and nervous system activity. Pan-neuronal silencing of dendoU resulted in fly immature phenotypes, highly reduced lifespan and dramatic motor performance defects. Neuron-subtype selective silencing showed that DendoU is particularly important in cholinergic circuits. At the molecular level, we unveiled that DendoU is a positive regulator of the neurodegeneration-associated protein dTDP-43, whose downregulation recapitulates the ensemble of dendoU-dependent phenotypes. This interdisciplinary work, which comprehends in silico, in vitro and in vivo studies, unveils a relevant role for DendoU in Drosophila nervous system physio-pathology and highlights that DendoU-mediated neurotoxicity is, at least in part, contributed by dTDP-43 loss-of-function.
The value of resting-state functional MRI in subacute ischemic stroke: comparison with dynamic susceptibility contrast-enhanced perfusion MRI
Authors: Ni Ling , Li Jingwei , Li Weiping , Zhou Fei , Wang Fangfang , Schwarz Christopher G. , Liu Renyuan , Zhao Hui , Wu Wenbo , Zhang Xin , Li Ming , Yu Haiping , Zhu Bin , Villringer Arno , Zang Yufeng , Zhang Bing , Lv Yating , Xu Yun
Published: January 2017

To evaluate the potential clinical value of the time-shift analysis (TSA) approach for resting-state fMRI (rs-fMRI) blood oxygenation level-dependent (BOLD) data in detecting hypoperfusion of subacute stroke patients through comparison with dynamic susceptibility contrast perfusion weighted imaging (DSC-PWI). Forty patients with subacute stroke (3–14 days after neurological symptom onset) underwent MRI examination. Cohort A: 31 patients had MRA, DSC-PWI and BOLD data. Cohort B: 9 patients had BOLD and MRA data. The time delay between the BOLD time course in each voxel and the mean signal of global and contralateral hemisphere was calculated using TSA. Time to peak (TTP) was employed to detect hypoperfusion. Among cohort A, 14 patients who had intracranial large-vessel occlusion/stenosis with sparse collaterals showed hypoperfusion by both of the two approaches, one with abundant collaterals showed neither TTP nor TSA time delay. The remaining 16 patients without obvious MRA lesions showed neither TTP nor TSA time delay. Among cohort B, eight patients showed time delay areas. The TSA approach was a promising alternative to DSC-PWI for detecting hypoperfusion in subacute stroke patients who had obvious MRA lesions with sparse collaterals, those with abundant collaterals would keep intact local perfusion.
Adaptor Protein 2 (AP-2) complex is essential for functional axogenesis in hippocampal neurons
Authors: Kyung Jae Won , Cho In Ha , Lee Sukmook , Song Woo Keun , Ryan Timothy A. , Hoppa Michael B. , Kim Sung Hyun
Published: January 2017

The complexity and diversity of a neural network requires regulated elongation and branching of axons, as well as the formation of synapses between neurons. In the present study we explore the role of AP-2, a key endocytic adaptor protein complex, in the development of rat hippocampal neurons. We found that the loss of AP-2 during the early stage of development resulted in impaired axon extension and failed maturation of the axon initial segment (AIS). Normally the AIS performs two tasks in concert, stabilizing neural polarity and generating action potentials. In AP-2 silenced axons polarity is established, however there is a failure to establish action potential firing. Consequently, this impairs activity-driven Ca2+ influx and exocytosis at nerve terminals. In contrast, removal of AP-2 from older neurons does not impair axonal growth or signaling and synaptic function. Our data reveal that AP-2 has important roles in functional axogenesis by proper extension of axon as well as the formation of AIS during the early step of neurodevelopment.
Hybrid Photonic Cavity with Metal-Organic Framework Coatings for the Ultra-Sensitive Detection of Volatile Organic Compounds with High Immunity to Humidity
Authors: Tao Jifang , Wang Xuerui , Sun Tao , Cai Hong , Wang Yuxiang , Lin Tong , Fu Dongliang , Ting Lennon Lee Yao , Gu Yuandong , Zhao Dan
Published: January 2017

Detection of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at parts-per-billion (ppb) level is one of the most challenging tasks for miniature gas sensors because of the high requirement on sensitivity and the possible interference from moisture. Herein, for the first time, we present a novel platform based on a hybrid photonic cavity with metal-organic framework (MOF) coatings for VOCs detection. We have fabricated a compact gas sensor with detection limitation ranging from 29 to 99 ppb for various VOCs including styrene, toluene, benzene, propylene and methanol. Compared to the photonic cavity without coating, the MOF-coated solution exhibits a sensitivity enhancement factor up to 1000. The present results have demonstrated great potential of MOF-coated photonic resonators in miniaturized gas sensing applications.
Suppression of emission rates improves sonar performance by flying bats
Authors: Adams Amanda M. , Davis Kaylee , Smotherman Michael
Published: January 2017

Echolocating bats face the challenge of actively sensing their environment through their own emissions, while also hearing calls and echoes of nearby conspecifics. How bats mitigate interference is a long-standing question that has both ecological and technological implications, as biosonar systems continue to outperform man-made sonar systems in noisy, cluttered environments. We recently showed that perched bats decreased calling rates in groups, displaying a behavioral strategy resembling the back-off algorithms used in artificial communication networks to optimize information throughput at the group level. We tested whether free-tailed bats (Tadarida brasiliensis) would employ such a coordinated strategy while performing challenging flight maneuvers, and report here that bats navigating obstacles lowered emission rates when hearing artificial playback of another bat’s calls. We measured the impact of acoustic interference on navigation performance and show that the calculated reductions in interference rates are sufficient to reduce interference and improve obstacle avoidance. When bats flew in pairs, each bat responded to the presence of the other as an obstacle by increasing emissions, but hearing the sonar emissions of the nearby bat partially suppressed this response. This behavior supports social cohesion by providing a key mechanism for minimizing mutual interference.
The differential ability of asparagine and glutamine in promoting the closed/active enzyme conformation rationalizes the Wolinella succinogenes L-asparaginase substrate specificity
Authors: Nguyen Hien Anh , Durden Donald L. , Lavie Arnon
Published: January 2017

Many side effects of current FDA-approved L-asparaginases have been related to their secondary L-glutaminase activity. The Wolinella succinogenes L-asparaginase (WoA) has been reported to be L-glutaminase free, suggesting it would have fewer side effects. Unexpectedly, the WoA variant with a proline at position 121 (WoA-P121) was found to have L-glutaminase activity in contrast to Uniprot entry P50286 (WoA-S121) that has a serine residue at this position. Towards understanding how this residue impacts the L-glutaminase property, kinetic analysis was coupled with crystal structure determination of these WoA variants. WoA-S121 was confirmed to have much lower L-glutaminase activity than WoA-P121, yet both showed comparable L-asparaginase activity. Structures of the WoA variants in complex with L-aspartic acid versus L-glutamic acid provide insights into their differential substrate selectivity. Structural analysis suggests a mechanism by which residue 121 impacts the conformation of the conserved tyrosine 27, a component of the catalytically-important flexible N-terminal loop. Surprisingly, we could fully model this loop in either its open or closed conformations, revealing the roles of specific residues of an evolutionary conserved motif among this L-asparaginase family. Together, this work showcases critical residues that influence the ability of the flexible N-terminal loop for adopting its active conformation, thereby effecting substrate specificity.
Prognostic value of marital status on stage at diagnosis in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Wenjie , Wang Xiaochen , Huang Ruyi , Jin Kangpeng , Zhangyuan Guangyan , Yu Weiwei , Yin Yin , Wang Hai , Xu Zekuan , Sun Beicheng
Published: January 2017

Marital status have been found as an independent prognostic factor for survival and spousal support could provide a survival advantage in various cancer types. However, the specific effect of marital status on survival in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has not been explored in detail. In this study, we used the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results program to identify iagnosed with HCC between 1988 and 2007. Kaplan-Meier methods and multivariable Cox regression models were used to analyze long-term cancer-specific survival (CSS) outcomes and risk factors stratified by marital status. There were significant differences among these different marital status subgroups with regard to 5-year CSS rates (P < 0.001). Married HCC patients had a better 5 year CSS rate than those unmarried patients, and widowed patients were more likely to die of their cancer. A stratified analysis showed that widowed patients always had the lowest CSS rate across different cancer stage, age and gender subgroups. Even after adjusting for known confounders, unmarried patients were at greater risk of cancer-specific mortality. Social support aimed at this population could improve the likelihood of achieving cure.
Platelet activation determines the severity of thrombocytopenia in dengue infection
Authors: Ojha Amrita , Nandi Dipika , Batra Harish , Singhal Rashi , Annarapu Gowtham K. , Bhattacharyya Sankar , Seth Tulika , Dar Lalit , Medigeshi Guruprasad R. , Vrati Sudhanshu , Vikram Naval K. , Guchhait Prasenjit
Published: January 2017

Thrombocytopenia is common in patients with dengue virus (DENV) infections. With a focus on understanding the possible mechanism of thrombocytopenia in DENV infections we described a direct correlation between activation and depletion of platelets in patients. Our data showed a sharp decrease in platelet counts at day 4 of fever in patients. The high DENV genome copies in platelets correlated directly with the elevated platelet activation along with increased binding of complement factor C3 and IgG on their surface at day 4. Recovery in platelet count was observed on day 10 through day 6 and 8 with simultaneous decrease in platelet activation markers. Further, ourin vitrodata supported the above observations describing a concentration-dependent increase in platelet activation by DENV serotype-2. The high copy number of DENV2 genome in the platelet pellet correlated directly with platelet activation, microparticle generation and clot formation. Furthermore the DENV2-activated platelets were phagocytosed in large numbers by the monocytes. The DENV2-mediated lysis and clearance of platelets were abrogated in presence of platelet activation inhibitor, prostacyclin. These observations collectively suggest that platelet activation status is an important determinant of thrombocytopenia in dengue infections. A careful strategy of inactivation of platelets may rescue them from rapid destruction during DENV infections.
Histone H4 expression is cooperatively maintained by IKKβ and Akt1 which attenuates cisplatin-induced apoptosis through the DNA-PK/RIP1/IAPs signaling cascade
Authors: Wang Ruixue , Zheng Xuelian , Zhang Lei , Zhou Bin , Hu Huaizhong , Li Zhiping , Zhang Lin , Lin Yong , Wang Xia
Published: January 2017

While chromatin remodeling mediated by post-translational modification of histone is extensively studied in carcinogenesis and cancer cell’s response to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, little is known about the role of histone expression in chemoresistance. Here we report a novel chemoresistance mechanism involving histone H4 expression. Extended from our previous studies showing that concurrent blockage of the NF-κB and Akt signaling pathways sensitizes lung cancer cells to cisplatin-induced apoptosis, we for the first time found that knockdown of Akt1 and the NF-κB-activating kinase IKKβ cooperatively downregulated histone H4 expression, which increased cisplatin-induced apoptosis in lung cancer cells. The enhanced cisplatin cytotoxicity in histone H4 knockdown cells was associated with proteasomal degradation of RIP1, accumulation of cellular ROS and degradation of IAPs (cIAP1 and XIAP). The cisplatin-induced DNA-PK activation was suppressed in histone H4 knockdown cells, and inhibiting DNA-PK reduced expression of RIP1 and IAPs in cisplatin-treated cells. These results establish a novel mechanism by which NF-κB and Akt contribute to chemoresistance involving a signaling pathway consisting of histone H4, DNA-PK, RIP1 and IAPs that attenuates ROS-mediated apoptosis, and targeting this pathway may improve the anticancer efficacy of platinum-based chemotherapy.
Transcriptional heterogeneity in the lactase gene within cell-type is linked to the epigenome
Authors: Oh Edward , Jeremian Richie , Oh Gabriel , Groot Daniel , Susic Miki , Lee KwangHo , Foy Kelly , Laird Peter W. , Petronis Arturas , Labrie Viviane
Published: January 2017

Transcriptional variation in histologically- and genetically- identical cells is a widespread phenomenon in tissues, yet the processes conferring this heterogeneity are not well understood. To identify contributing factors, we analyzed epigenetic profiles associated with the in vivo transcriptional gradient of the mouse lactase gene (Lct), which occurs in enterocytes along the proximal-to-distal axis of the small intestine. We found that epigenetic signatures at enhancer and promoter elements aligns with transcriptional variation of Lct in enterocytes. Age and phenotype-specific environmental cues (lactose exposure after weaning) induced changes to epigenetic modifications and CTCF binding at select regulatory elements, which corresponded to the alterations in the intestinal Lct mRNA gradient. Thus, epigenetic modifications in combination with CTCF binding at regulatory elements account for the transcriptional gradient in Lct in cells of the same type. Epigenetic divergence within enterocytes may contribute to the functional specialization of intestinal subregions.
All-dielectric metasurface circular dichroism waveplate
Authors: Hu Jingpei , Zhao Xiaonan , Lin Yu , Zhu Aijiao , Zhu Xiaojun , Guo Peiji , Cao Bing , Wang Chinhua
Published: January 2017

We propose and experimentally demonstrate a high efficient circularly polarizing dichroism waveplate (CPDW) using a Si-based all-dielectric 2Dchiral metasurface. We demonstrate that the CPDW exhibits a unique dichroism in that it functions as a transmissive quarter waveplate for one of either left-or right-handed circularly polarized incident lightand a reflective mirror for the opposite polarization. The circular polarization dichroism (CPD = IRCP − ILCP) in transmission at wavelength ~1.5 μm reaches 97% and the extinction ratio (ER = IRCP/ILCP) is as high as 345:1. Experimental fabrications and measurements of the proposed all-dielectric metasurface are implemented and found to be in excellent agreement with the simulations. The proposed all-dielectric chiral metasurface is of advantages of high-dichroism, easy-fabrication and standard semiconductor fabrication techniques compatible, which could lead to enhanced security in fiber and free-space communications, as well as imaging and sensing applications for circularly polarized light with a highly integrated photonic platform.
Particulate air pollutants, APOE alleles and their contributions to cognitive impairment in older women and to amyloidogenesis in experimental models
Authors: Cacciottolo M , Wang X , Driscoll I , Woodward N , Saffari A , Reyes J , Serre M L , Vizuete W , Sioutas C , Morgan T E , Gatz M , Chui H C , Shumaker S A , Resnick S M , Espeland M A , Finch C E , Chen J C
Published: January 2017

Exposure to particulate matter (PM) in the ambient air and its interactions with APOE alleles may contribute to the acceleration of brain aging and the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Neurodegenerative effects of particulate air pollutants were examined in a US-wide cohort of older women from the Women’s Health Initiative Memory Study (WHIMS) and in experimental mouse models. Residing in places with fine PM exceeding EPA standards increased the risks for global cognitive decline and all-cause dementia respectively by 81 and 92%, with stronger adverse effects in APOE ɛ4/4 carriers. Female EFAD transgenic mice (5xFAD+/−/human APOE ɛ3 or ɛ4+/+) with 225 h exposure to urban nanosized PM (nPM) over 15 weeks showed increased cerebral β-amyloid by thioflavin S for fibrillary amyloid and by immunocytochemistry for Aβ deposits, both exacerbated by APOE ɛ4. Moreover, nPM exposure increased Aβ oligomers, caused selective atrophy of hippocampal CA1 neurites, and decreased the glutamate GluR1 subunit. Wildtype C57BL/6 female mice also showed nPM-induced CA1 atrophy and GluR1 decrease. In vitro nPM exposure of neuroblastoma cells (N2a-APP/swe) increased the pro-amyloidogenic processing of the amyloid precursor protein (APP). We suggest that airborne PM exposure promotes pathological brain aging in older women, with potentially a greater impact in ɛ4 carriers. The underlying mechanisms may involve increased cerebral Aβ production and selective changes in hippocampal CA1 neurons and glutamate receptor subunits.
The impact of Disrupted-in-Schizophrenia 1 (DISC1) on the dopaminergic system: a systematic review
Authors: Dahoun T , Trossbach S V , Brandon N J , Korth C , Howes O D
Published: January 2017

Disrupted-in-Schizophrenia 1 (DISC1) is a gene known as a risk factor for mental illnesses possibly associated with dopamine impairments. DISC1 is a scaffold protein interacting with proteins involved in the dopamine system. Here we summarise the impact of DISC1 disruption on the dopamine system in animal models, considering its effects on presynaptic dopaminergic function (tyrosine hydroxylase levels, dopamine transporter levels, dopamine levels at baseline and after amphetamine administration) and postsynaptic dopaminergic function (dopamine D1 and D2 receptor levels, dopamine receptor-binding potential and locomotor activity after amphetamine administration). Our findings show that many but not all DISC1 models display (1) increased locomotion after amphetamine administration, (2) increased dopamine levels after amphetamine administration in the nucleus accumbens, and (3) inconsistent basal dopamine levels, dopamine receptor levels and binding potentials. There is also limited evidence for decreased tyrosine hydroxylase levels in the frontal cortex and increased dopamine transporter levels in the striatum but not nucleus accumbens, but these conclusions warrant further replication. The main dopaminergic findings are seen across different DISC1 models, providing convergent evidence that DISC1 has a role in regulating dopaminergic function. These results implicate dopaminergic dysregulation as a mechanism underlying the increased rate of schizophrenia seen in DISC1 variant carriers, and provide insights into how DISC1, and potentially DISC1-interacting proteins such as AKT and GSK-3, could be used as novel therapeutic targets for schizophrenia.
Ultra-high sensitivity detection of gold nanorods on a blotting membrane by laser induced desorption/ionization of gold ions
Authors: Muko Daiki , Inoue Yuki , Nishitani Atsushi , Niidome Yasuro
Published: January 2017

Laser induced desorption/ionization (LDI) of gold ions from gold nanoparticles was examined. The detection limit was estimated to be about 0.02 amol mm−2.
Novel fluorinated ligands for gold nanoparticle labelling with applications in 19F-MRI
Authors: Michelena Olatz , Padro Daniel , Carrillo-Carrión Carolina , del Pino Pablo , Blanco Jorge , Arnaiz Blanca , Parak Wolfgang J. , Carril Mónica
Published: January 2017

Novel fluorinated ligands for gold nanoparticle labelling and with potential applications in 19F-MRI have been designed and synthesised.
A catalytic intramolecular nitrene insertion into a copper(i)–N-heterocyclic carbene bond yielding fused nitrogen heterocycles
Authors: Fauché Kévin , Nauton Lionel , Jouffret Laurent , Cisnetti Federico , Gautier Arnaud
Published: January 2017

We report a catalytic NHC–imido/nitrene cyclization allowing an easy access to diverse nitrogen-rich heterocyclic scaffolds.
Ba5Cu8In2S12: a quaternary semiconductor with a unique 3D copper-rich framework and ultralow thermal conductivity
Authors: Lin Hua , Chen Hong , Zheng Yu-Jun , Chen Yu-Kun , Yu Ju-Song , Wu Li-Ming
Published: January 2017

A novel quaternary semiconductor, Ba5Cu8In2S12, with a unique 3D copper-rich framework and unusual Cu coordination exhibits ultralow thermal conductivity.
Acid-catalysed thermal cycloreversion of a diarylethene: a potential way for triggered release of stored light energy?
Authors: Gurke J. , Quick M. , Ernsting N. P. , Hecht S.
Published: January 2017

The light energy stored in a closed diarylethene can efficiently be released upon addition of catalytic amounts of acid.
Controllable preparation of core–shell magnetic covalent-organic framework nanospheres for efficient adsorption and removal of bisphenols in aqueous solution
Authors: Li Yang , Yang Cheng-Xiong , Yan Xiu-Ping
Published: January 2017

A monomer-mediated in situ growth strategy has been developed for the controllable fabrication of magnetic COF core–shell nanostructures with great potential for wide applications.
N-Heterocyclic carbene (NHC)-catalysed atom economical construction of 2,3-disubstituted indoles
Authors: Harish Battu , Subbireddy Manyam , Suresh Surisetti
Published: January 2017

N-Heterocyclic carbene (NHC)-catalysed atom economical synthesis of a wide range of 2-substituted indole-3-acetic acid derivatives has been disclosed.
Variations of thermoelectric performance by electric fields in bilayer MX2 (M = W, Mo; X = S, Se)
Authors: Wang Rui-Ning , Dong Guo-Yi , Wang Shu-Fang , Fu Guang-Sheng , Wang Jiang-Long
Published: January 2017

A gate is usually used to controllably tune the carrier concentrations, further modulating the electrical conductivity and Seebeck coefficient to obtain the optimum thermoelectric figure of merit in two-dimensional materials. On the other hand, it is necessary to investigate how an electric field induced by a gate affects the electronic structures, further determining the thermoelectric properties.
Spectroscopic evidence that Li doping creates shallow VZnin ZnO
Authors: Lv Jinpeng , Liu Yuan
Published: January 2017

A 3 eV VZnphotoluminescence peak was created by both Li doping and H2O2oxidation upon ZnO.
Emergence of polar order and tilt in terephthalate based bent-core liquid crystals
Authors: Sebastián Nerea , Belau Sebastian , Eremin Alexey , Alaasar Mohamed , Prehm Marko , Tschierske Carsten
Published: January 2017

The shown compound forms ferroelectric domains in a SmA phase, which adopt antipolar correlations before condensing into a weakly tilted antiferroelectric smectic phase.
Ag–LaFeO3 fibers, spheres, and cages for ultrasensitive detection of formaldehyde at low operating temperatures
Authors: Zhang Yumin , Zhang Jin , Zhao Jianhong , Zhu Zhongqi , Liu Qingju
Published: January 2017

Metal oxide semiconductors with special structures and morphologies have attracted considerable attention because of their promising applications in gas sensors.
Influence of magnetic ordering and Jahn–Teller distortion on the lithiation process of LiMn2O4
Authors: Liu Wei-Wei , Wang Da , Wang Zhifan , Deng Jianguo , Lau Woon-Ming , Zhang Yanning
Published: January 2017

We performed extensive first-principles studies on the magnetic ordering and Jahn–Teller (JT) distortion of spinel LiMn2O4, a promising candidate for cathode materials in Li-ion batteries.
Formulating the bonding contribution equation in heterogeneous catalysis: a quantitative description between the surface structure and adsorption energy
Authors: Wang Ziyun , Hu P.
Published: January 2017

The relation between the surface structure and adsorption energy of adsorbates is of great importance in heterogeneous catalysis.
Super high-energy density single-bonded trigonal nitrogen allotrope—a chemical twin of the cubic gauche form of nitrogen
Authors: Bondarchuk Sergey V. , Minaev Boris F.
Published: January 2017

A new ambient-pressure metastable single-bonded nitrogen allotrope was predicted using reliable theoretical methods. The predicted allotrope has a number of similarities with the experimentally detected cubicgauchenitrogen allotrope.
Anneal-induced transformation of phase structure, morphology and luminescence of GdPO4:Sm3+ nanomaterials synthesized by a hydrothermal method
Authors: Zou Xiao , He Lihua , Tan Dihao , Lei Fengying , Jiang Na , Zheng Qiaoji , Lin Dunmin , Xu Chenggang , Liu Yongfu
Published: January 2017

GdPO4·H2O:xSm3+ nanomaterials were synthesized via a facile hydrothermal method and the effects of Sm3+ concentrations and annealing temperature on the crystal structures, morphologies, and luminescent properties were studied.
Rigid versus semi-rigid bis(imidazole) ligands in the assembly of two Co(ii) coordination polymers: structural variability, electrochemical properties and photocatalytic behavior
Authors: Cui Jing-Wang , Hou Suo-Xia , Van Hecke Kristof , Cui Guang-Hua
Published: January 2017

Two Co(ii) complexes with 1,2,4,5-cyclohexanetetracarboxylate, rigid or semi-rigid bis(imidazole) ligands were hydrothermally synthesized. Both compounds showed high photocatalytic activity for MB degradation.
Multidoped Ln3+ gadolinium dioxycarbonates as tunable white light emitting phosphors
Authors: Nelli I. , Kaczmarek A. M. , Locardi F. , Caratto V. , Costa G. A. , Van Deun R.
Published: January 2017

Gadolinium dioxycarbonates co-doped with different visible emitting lanthanides were synthesized via a co-precipitation method using oxalic acid as a precipitating agent.
Pneumatic stimulation of C. elegans mechanoreceptor neurons in a microfluidic trap
Authors: Nekimken Adam L. , Fehlauer Holger , Kim Anna A. , Manosalvas-Kjono Sandra N. , Ladpli Purim , Memon Farah , Gopisetty Divya , Sanchez Veronica , Goodman Miriam B. , Pruitt Beth L. , Krieg Michael
Published: January 2017

A new microfluidic tool for simultaneous immobilization, force delivery and high resolution imaging of neuronal activity in living Caenorhabditis elegans.
Construction and simulation of the Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens USDA110 metabolic network: a comparison between free-living and symbiotic states
Authors: Yang Yi , Hu Xiao-Pan , Ma Bin-Guang
Published: January 2017

The first genome-scale metabolic network forBradyrhizobiumwas constructed and the metabolic properties were compared between the free-living and symbiotic physiological states.
An effective approach for the laboratory measurement and detection of creatinine by magnetic molecularly imprinted polymer nanoparticles
Authors: Hassanzadeh Marjan , Ghaemy Mousa
Published: January 2017

A magnetic MIP that exhibits high selectivity to capture creatinine with a binding capacity of 33.32 mg g−1was successfully synthesized.
“Arm-first” approach for the synthesis of star-shaped stereoregular polymers through living coordination polymerization
Authors: Shi Zhenghai , Guo Fang , Tan Rui , Niu Hui , Li Tingting , Li Yang
Published: January 2017

Stereoregular star polymers were synthesized through an “arm-first” approach via a living coordination polymerization mechanism for the first time using a half-sandwich scandium catalyst system.
Probing the binding behavior and kinetics of silver nanoparticles with bovine serum albumin
Authors: Wang Gongke , Lu Yanfang , Hou Huimin , Liu Yufang
Published: January 2017

The binding of BSA to AgNPs will open a door to fully understand the essence of the interactions between nanoparticles and proteins.
Insight into the structure and energy of Mo27SxOyclusters
Authors: Liu Xingchen , Cao Dongbo , Yang Tao , Li Hao , Ge Hui , Ramos Manuel , Peng Qing , Dearden Albert K. , Cao Zhi , Yang Yong , Li Yong-Wang , Wen Xiao-Dong
Published: January 2017

Oxygen incorporated molybdenum sulfide (MoS2) nanoparticles are highly promising materials in hydrodesulfurization catalysis, mechanical, electric, and optical applications.
Oxidation of diazenyl-protected N-heterocycles – a new entry to functionalized lactams
Authors: Petrović Martina , Scarpi Dina , Nieger Martin , Jung Nicole , Occhiato Ernesto G. , Bräse Stefan
Published: January 2017

A strategy for the synthesis ofN-aryldiazenyllactams, offering the direct access to protected lactam derivatives, is based on the oxidation of the corresponding cyclic amines with a ruthenium-based catalyst in CCl4/CAN/phosphate buffer.
Structural stability and thermoelectric property optimization of Ca2Si
Authors: Xiong Rui , Sa Baisheng , Miao Naihua , Li Yan-Ling , Zhou Jian , Pan Yuanchun , Wen Cuilian , Wu Bo , Sun Zhimei
Published: January 2017

By using an ab initio evolutionary algorithm structure search, low enthalpy criterion as well as stability analysis, we have found that cubic Fm3̄m Ca2Si can be achieved under a negative external pressure.
A mechanistic insight into the organocatalytic properties of imidazolium-based ionic liquids and a positive co-solvent effect on cellulose modification reactions in an ionic liquid
Authors: Kakuchi Ryohei , Ito Ryo , Nomura Shuhei , Abroshan Hadi , Ninomiya Kazuaki , Ikai Tomoyuki , Maeda Katsuhiro , Kim Hyung J. , Takahashi Kenji
Published: January 2017

Mechanistic insights into organocatalytic properties of imidazolium-based ionic liquids led to improvements of cellulose modification reactions in ionic liquids.
Understanding gas capacity, guest selectivity, and diffusion in porous liquids
Authors: Greenaway Rebecca L. , Holden Daniel , Eden Edward G. B. , Stephenson Andrew , Yong Chin W. , Bennison Michael J. , Hasell Tom , Briggs Michael E. , James Stuart L. , Cooper Andrew I.
Published: January 2017

An in-depth study of porous liquids using measurement techniques, molecular simulations, and control experiments to advance their quantitative understanding.
Easy access to new anthracenyl π-conjugates: generation of distinct AIE-active materials
Authors: Zubair Khalid Baig M. , Majhi Debashis , Tulichala R. N. Prasad , Sarkar Moloy , Chakravarty Manab
Published: January 2017

Extensive π-conjugated anthracenyl compounds are generated efficiently to demonstrate new AIE-active luminogens.
Understanding metal–organic frameworks for photocatalytic solar fuel production
Authors: Santaclara J. G. , Kapteijn F. , Gascon J. , van der Veen M. A.
Published: January 2017

The fascinating chemical and physical properties of MOFs have recently stimulated exploration of their application for photocatalysis. Design guidelines for these materials in photocatalytic solar fuel generation can be developed by applying the right spectroscopic tools.
Presence of Peierls pairing and absence of insulator-to-metal transition in VO2 (A): a structure–property relationship study
Authors: Popuri S. R. , Artemenko A. , Decourt R. , Villesuzanne A. , Pollet M.
Published: January 2017

Based on structure–property relationships, we propose a two-step semiconductor-to-semiconductor phase transition in VO2 (A).
Lithium-ion storage properties of a micro/nanosheet-like NaV6O15 anode in aqueous solution
Authors: Zhao Mingshu , Zhang Weigang , Song Xiaoping
Published: January 2017

Sheet-like NaV6O15 materials in an aqueous rechargeable lithium-ion battery show increased capacity retention at higher current densities.
Turning up the heat against metabolic syndrome and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Festuccia William T.
Published: January 2017

Brown adipose tissue (BAT), an organ specialized in the conversion of chemical energy from nutrients into heat through a process denominated as nonshivering thermogenesis, plays an important role in defence of body weight and homoeothermy in mammals. BAT nonshivering thermogenesis relies on the activity of the uncoupling protein 1 (UCP-1), a mitochondrial protein that, on demand, deviates proton gradient from ATP synthesis to heat generation. Energetically, this process is supported by BAT-elevated mitochondrial density and outstanding capacity to oxidize fatty acids and glucose. These unique features place BAT as an important determinant of whole-body energy, lipid and glucose homoeostases. In the present issue of Clinical Science, Poekes et al. have gathered supporting evidence indicating that, along with hyperphagia, impaired BAT diet-induced thermogenesis is an important factor driving the exacerbated diet-induced obesity, glucose intolerance and hepatic steatosis featured by foz/foz, a mouse strain that carries mutations in Alström syndrome protein 1 (ALMS1) gene mimicking human Alström syndrome. They also show that restoration of BAT nonshivering thermogenesis by intermittent cold exposure attenuated foz/foz mice obesity, glucose intolerance and liver steatosis. Altogether, these findings highlight the important contribution of BAT nonshivering thermogenesis to whole-body energy expenditure, lipid and glucose homoeostases and further support its potential utilization as a therapeutic strategy to treat metabolic diseases.
Duration compensation of i‐vectors for short duration speaker verification
Authors: Ma Jianbo , Sethu Vidhyasaharan , Ambikairajah Eliathamby , Lee Kong Aik
Published: January 2017

The standard i‐vector/Gaussian probabilistic linear discriminant analysis (G‐PLDA) system does not compensate for duration mismatch, which is a significant confounding factor in short duration speaker verification. A novel duration compensation technique to normalise the distribution mismatch caused by duration variation in the i‐vector space is proposed. The proposed technique involves the use of two factor analysers that are tied together to share latent variables for a given speaker as the underlying generative model of the i‐vector space. This leads to a transform which maps the original i‐vectors onto a latent subspace that is expected to be duration invariant. The proposed method has the advantages that it normalises distribution mismatch while taking into consideration both inter‐ and intra‐speaker variability. Experiments conducted on NIST SRE 2010 database shows that the proposed method leads to 18.54, 15.48 and 8.77% relative improvements when tested on utterances of 10, 5 and 3 s durations, respectively, compared with the best results obtained by either standard i‐vector/G‐PLDA or the previously proposed twin model G‐PLDA.
Variable propagation constant directional coupler
Authors: Guo J. , Wu K.
Published: January 2017

Variable propagation constant directional coupler is proposed and demonstrated. Compared with its conventional counterpart, the proposed coupler uses variable waveguide propagation constants as an extra degree of design freedom to achieve the required signal addition and cancellation. The operation principle is mathematically formulated and a step‐by‐step design methodology is presented. Two double‐layer two‐hole substrate integrated waveguide couplers: namely, one forward directional coupler and one backward directional coupler, are fabricated to validate the proposed concept. A coupling of −20 dB is achieved in both couplers and the maximum isolation of −47 and −52 dB are obtained by the forward and backward structures, respectively.