bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phase-field model of pitting corrosion kinetics in metallic materials
Authors: Ansari Talha Qasim , Xiao Zhihua , Hu Shenyang , Li Yulan , Luo Jing-Li , Shi San-Qiang
Published: July 2018

Pitting corrosion is one of the most destructive forms of corrosion that can lead to catastrophic failure of structures. This study presents a thermodynamically consistent phase field model for the quantitative prediction of the pitting corrosion kinetics in metallic materials. An order parameter is introduced to represent the local physical state of the metal within a metal-electrolyte system. The free energy of the system is described in terms of its metal ion concentration and the order parameter. Both the ion transport in the electrolyte and the electrochemical reactions at the electrolyte/metal interface are explicitly taken into consideration. The temporal evolution of ion concentration profile and the order parameter field is driven by the reduction in the total free energy of the system and is obtained by numerically solving the governing equations. A calibration study is performed to couple the kinetic interface parameter with the corrosion current density to obtain a direct relationship between overpotential and the kinetic interface parameter. The phase field model is validated against the experimental results, and several examples are presented for applications of the phase-field model to understand the corrosion behavior of closely located pits, stressed material, ceramic particles-reinforced steel, and their crystallographic orientation dependence.
Controlled study on Gamma nail and proximal femoral locking plate for unstable intertrochanteric femoral fractures with broken lateral wall
Authors: Han Lei , Liu Jing-jing , Hu Yun-gen , Quan Ren-fu , Fang Wei-li , Jin Bo , Lin Wei-long
Published: July 2018

The gamma nail and proximal femoral locking plate (PFLP) are both used for fractures. A controlled study was performed to determine the optimal implant. To assess and analyze the clinical effects of gamma nails and PFLPs for patients with unstable intertrochanteric femoral fractures, specifically with broken lateral walls. Thirty-six patients with unstable intertrochanteric femoral fractures and broken lateral walls were treated with gamma nails or PFLPs and retrospectively studied. The clinical data were compared. Duration of surgery and early full weight-bearing time were significantly longer in the PFLP group compared to the gamma nail group (P < 0.05). However, intraoperative fluoroscopy frequency and total blood loss in the PFLP group were significantly less than those in the gamma nail group (P < 0.05). No significant differences were found in hospitalized days, Parker Palmer mobility scores, Harris hip scores, and complications between the two groups. No difference in hip-functional recovery was found between the gamma nail group and the PFLP group, indicating that both the gamma nail and PFLP were effective for unstable intertrochanteric femoral fractures with a broken lateral wall. However, early weight bearing on the fractures was not encouraged in patients treated with PFLP.
Biomechanical Texture Coding in Rat Whiskers
Authors: Oladazimi Maysam , Brendel Wieland , Schwarz Cornelius
Published: July 2018

Classically, texture discrimination has been thought to be based on ‘global’ codes, i.e. frequency (signal analysis based on Fourier analysis) or intensity (signal analysis based on averaging), which both rely on integration of the vibrotactile signal across time and/or space. Recently, a novel ‘local’ coding scheme based on the waveform of frictional movements, discrete short lasting kinematic events (i.e. stick-slip movements called slips) has been formulated. We performed biomechanical measurements of relative movements of a rat vibrissa across sandpapers of different roughness. We find that the classic global codes convey some information about texture identity, but are consistently outperformed by the slip-based local code. Moreover, the slip code also surpasses the global ones in coding for active scanning parameters. This is remarkable as it suggests that the slip code would explicitly allow the whisking rat to optimize perception by selecting goal-specific scanning strategies.
Actin cytoskeleton dynamics in stem cells from autistic individuals
Authors: Griesi-Oliveira Karina , Suzuki Angela May , Alves Aline Yasuda , Mafra Ana Carolina Cintra Nunes , Yamamoto Guilherme Lopes , Ezquina Suzana , Magalhães Yuli Thamires , Forti Fabio Luis , Sertie Andrea Laurato , Zachi Elaine Cristina , Vadasz Estevão , Passos-Bueno Maria Rita
Published: July 2018

Several lines of indirect evidence, such as mutations or dysregulated expression of genes related to cytoskeleton, have suggested that cytoskeletal dynamics, a process essential for axons and dendrites development, is compromised in autism spectrum disorders (ASD). However, no study has yet examined whether cytoskeleton dynamics is functionally altered in cells from ASD patients. Here we investigated the regulation of actin cytoskeleton dynamics in stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHEDs) of 13 ASD patients and 8 control individuals by inducing actin filament depolymerization and then measuing their reconstruction upon activation of the RhoGTPases Rac, Cdc42 or RhoA. We observed that stem cells from seven ASD individuals (53%) presented altered dymanics of filament reconstruction, including a patient recently studied by our group whose iPSC-derived neuronal cells show shorten and less arborized neurites. We also report potentially pathogenic genetic variants that might be related to the alterations in actin repolymerization dynamics observed in some patient-derived cells. Our results suggest that, at least for a subgroup of ASD patients, the dynamics of actin polymerization is impaired, which might be ultimately leading to neuronal abnormalities.
Inhibition of Tunneling Nanotube (TNT) Formation and Human T-cell Leukemia Virus Type 1 (HTLV-1) Transmission by Cytarabine
Authors: Omsland Maria , Pise-Masison Cynthia , Fujikawa Dai , Galli Veronica , Fenizia Claudio , Parks Robyn Washington , Gjertsen Bjørn Tore , Franchini Genoveffa , Andresen Vibeke
Published: July 2018

The human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) is highly dependent on cell-to-cell interaction for transmission and productive infection. Cell-to-cell interactions through the virological synapse, biofilm-like structures and cellular conduits have been reported, but the relative contribution of each mechanism on HTLV-1 transmission still remains vastly unknown. The HTLV-1 protein p8 has been found to increase viral transmission and cellular conduits. Here we show that HTLV-1 expressing cells are interconnected by tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) defined as thin structures containing F-actin and lack of tubulin connecting two cells. TNTs connected HTLV-1 expressing cells and uninfected T-cells and monocytes and the viral proteins Tax and Gag localized to these TNTs. The HTLV-1 expressing protein p8 was found to induce TNT formation. Treatment of MT-2 cells with the nucleoside analog cytarabine (cytosine arabinoside, AraC) reduced number of TNTs and furthermore reduced TNT formation induced by the p8 protein. Intercellular transmission of HTLV-1 through TNTs provides a means of escape from recognition by the immune system. Cytarabine could represent a novel anti-HTLV-1 drug interfering with viral transmission.
Dual terahertz comb spectroscopy with a single free-running fibre laser
Authors: Hu Guoqing , Mizuguchi Tatsuya , Oe Ryo , Nitta Kazuki , Zhao Xin , Minamikawa Takeo , Li Ting , Zheng Zheng , Yasui Takeshi
Published: July 2018

Dual terahertz (THz) comb spectroscopy enables high spectral resolution, high spectral accuracy, and broad spectral coverage; however, the requirement for dual stabilized femtosecond lasers hampers its versatility. We here report the first demonstration of dual THz comb spectroscopy using a single free-running fibre laser. By tuning the cavity-loss-dependent gain profile with an intracavity Lyot filter together with precise management of the cavity length and dispersion, dual-wavelength comb light beams with slightly detuned repetition frequencies are generated in a single laser cavity. Due to sharing of the same cavity, such comb light beams suffer from common-mode fluctuation of the repetition frequency, and hence the corresponding frequency difference between them is passively stable around a few hundred hertz within millihertz fluctuation. While greatly reducing the size, complexity, and cost of the laser source by use of a single free-running fibre laser, the dual THz comb spectroscopy system maintains a spectral bandwidth and dynamic range of spectral power comparable to a system equipped with dual stabilized fibre lasers, and can be effectively applied to high-precision spectroscopy of acetonitrile gas at atmospheric pressure. The demonstrated results indicate that this system is an attractive solution for practical applications of THz spectroscopy and other applications.
The Impact of Compressed Femtosecond Laser Pulse Durations on Neuronal Tissue Used for Two-Photon Excitation Through an Endoscope
Authors: Sibai Mira , Mehidine Hussein , Poulon Fanny , Ibrahim Ali , Varlet P. , Juchaux M. , Pallud J. , Devaux B. , Kudlinski A. , Abi Haidar Darine
Published: July 2018

Accurate intraoperative tumour margin assessment is a major challenge in neurooncology, where sparse tumours beyond the bulk tumour are left undetected under conventional resection. Non-linear optical imaging can diagnose tissue at the sub-micron level and provide functional label-free histopathology in vivo. For this reason, a non-linear endomicroscope is being developed to characterize brain tissue intraoperatively based on multiple endogenous optical contrasts such as spectrally- and temporally-resolved fluorescence. To produce highly sensitive optical signatures that are specific to a given tissue type, short femtosecond pulsed lasers are required for efficient two-photon excitation. Yet, the potential of causing bio-damage has not been studied on neuronal tissue. Therefore, as a prerequisite to clinically testing the non-linear endomicroscope in vivo, the effect of short laser pulse durations (40–340 fs) on ex vivo brain tissue was investigated by monitoring the intensity, the spectral, and the lifetime properties of endogenous fluorophores under 800 and 890 nm two-photon excitation using a bi-modal non-linear endoscope. These properties were also validated by imaging samples on a benchtop multiphoton microscope. Our results show that under a constant mean laser power, excitation pulses as short as 40 fs do not negatively alter the biochemical/ biophysical properties of tissue even for prolonged irradiation.
Author Correction: Septicemia due to Streptococcus dysgalactiae subspecies dysgalactiae in vampire bats (Desmodus rotundus)
Authors: Mioni Mateus de Souza Ribeiro , Castro Fernando Favian Castro , Moreno Luisa Zanolli , Apolinário Camila Michelle , Belaz Lais Dario , Peres Marina Gea , Ribeiro Bruna Letícia Davidé , Castro Maria José da Silva , Ferreira Adriano Martison , Cortez Adriana , Moreno Andrea Micke , Heinemann Marcos Bryan , Megid Jane
Published: July 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has been fixed in the paper.
An acidic model pro-peptide affects the secondary structure, membrane interactions and antimicrobial activity of a crotalicidin fragment
Authors: Júnior Nelson G. O. , Cardoso Marlon H. , Cândido Elizabete S. , van den Broek Daniëlle , de Lange Niek , Velikova Nadya , Kleijn J. Mieke , Wells Jerry M. , Rezende Taia M. B. , Franco Octávio Luiz , de Vries Renko
Published: July 2018

In order to study how acidic pro-peptides inhibit the antimicrobial activity of antimicrobial peptides, we introduce a simple model system, consisting of a 19 amino-acid long antimicrobial peptide, and an N-terminally attached, 10 amino-acid long acidic model pro-peptide. The antimicrobial peptide is a fragment of the crotalicidin peptide, a member of the cathelidin family, from rattlesnake venom. The model pro-peptide is a deca (glutamic acid). Attachment of the model pro-peptide only leads to a moderately large reduction in the binding to- and induced leakage of model liposomes, while the antimicrobial activity of the crotalicidin fragment is completely inhibited by attaching the model pro-peptide. Attaching the pro-peptide induces a conformational change to a more helical conformation, while there are no signs of intra- or intermolecular peptide complexation. We conclude that inhibition of antimicrobial activity by the model pro-peptide might be related to a conformational change induced by the pro-peptide domain, and that additional effects beyond induced changes in membrane activity must also be involved.
Expanding the Arterivirus Host Spectrum: Olivier’s Shrew Virus 1, A Novel Arterivirus Discovered in African Giant Shrews
Authors: Vanmechelen Bert , Vergote Valentijn , Laenen Lies , Koundouno Fara Raymond , Bore Joseph Akoi , Wada Jiro , Kuhn Jens H. , Carroll Miles W. , Maes Piet
Published: July 2018

The family Arteriviridae harbors a rapidly expanding group of viruses known to infect a divergent group of mammals, including horses, pigs, possums, primates, and rodents. Hosts infected with arteriviruses present with a wide variety of (sub) clinical symptoms, depending on the virus causing the infection and the host being infected. In this study, we determined the complete genome sequences of three variants of a previously unknown virus found in Olivier’s shrews (Crocidura olivieri guineensis) sampled in Guinea. On the nucleotide level, the three genomes of this new virus, named Olivier’s shrew virus 1 (OSV-1), are 88–89% similar. The genome organization of OSV-1 is characteristic of all known arteriviruses, yet phylogenetic analysis groups OSV-1 separately from all currently established arterivirus lineages. Therefore, we postulate that OSV-1 represents a member of a novel arterivirus genus. The virus described here represents the first discovery of an arterivirus in members of the order Eulipotyphla, thereby greatly expanding the known host spectrum of arteriviruses.
The Dynamics of Nanoparticle-enhanced Fluid Displacement in Porous Media - A Pore-scale Study
Authors: Pak Tannaz , Archilha Nathaly Lopes , Mantovani Iara Frangiotti , Moreira Anderson Camargo , Butler Ian B.
Published: July 2018

This work provides new insights into the dynamics of silica nanoparticle-based removal of organic fluids (here oil) from naturally occurring porous media. We have used 4D (time-resolved 3D) imaging at pore-scale using X-ray computed micro-tomography (μCT) technique. The captured 3D tomographic time-series data reveal the dynamics of immiscible oil displacement from a carbonate rock upon injection of nanoparticle (NP) suspensions (0.06 and 0.12 wt% SiO2in deionised water). Our analysis shows significant pore-scale remobilisation of initially trapped oil upon injection of the NP suspensions, specifically, at higher concentration. Our data shows that oil clusters become significantly smaller with larger fluid/fluid interface as a result of the higher concentration NP injection. This paper demonstrates that use of 2D radiograms collected during fluid injections allows monitoring flow dynamics at time resolutions down to a few seconds using conventional laboratory-based μCT scanners. Here, as an underlying mechanism for oil remobilisation, we present the first 4D evidence ofin-situformation of an oil in water emulsion induced by nanoparticles.
Engineered Protein Model of the ATP synthase H+- Channel Shows No Salt Bridge at the Rotor-Stator Interface
Authors: Pierson Hannah E. , Kaler Mandeep , O’Grady Christopher , Uhlemann Eva-Maria E. , Dmitriev Oleg Y.
Published: July 2018

ATP synthase is powered by the flow of protons through the molecular turbine composed of two α-helical integral membrane proteins, subunita, which makes a stator, and a cylindrical rotor assembly made of multiple copies of subunitc. Transient protonation of a universally conserved carboxylate on subunitc(D61 inE. coli) gated by the electrostatic interaction with arginine on subunita(R210 inE. coli) is believed to be a crucial step in proton transfer across the membrane. We used a fusion protein consisting of subunitaand the adjacent helices of subunitcto test by NMR spectroscopy ifcD61 andaR210 are involved in an electrostatic interaction with each other, and found no evidence of such interaction. We have also determined that R140 does not form a salt bridge with either D44 or D124 as was suggested previously by mutation analysis. Our results demonstrate the potential of using arginines as NMR reporter groups for structural and functional studies of challenging membrane proteins.
Partial migration in savanna elephant populations distributed across southern Africa
Authors: Purdon Andrew , Mole Michael A. , Chase Michael J. , van Aarde Rudi J.
Published: July 2018

Migration is an important, but threatened ecological process. Conserving migration requires the maintenance of functional connectivity across sufficiently large areas. Therefore, we need to know if, where and why species migrate. Elephants are highly mobile and can travel long distances but we do not know if they migrate. Here, we analysed the movement trajectories of 139 savanna elephants (Loxodonta africana) within eight clusters of protected areas across southern Africa to determine if elephants migrate, and if so, where, how and why they migrate. Only 25 of these elephants migrated. Elephants are a facultative partially migratory species, where only some individuals in a population migrate opportunistically, and not every year. Elephants migrated between distinct seasonal ranges corresponding to southern Africa’s dry and wet seasons. The timing of wet season migrations was associated with the onset of rainfall and the subsequent greening up of forage. Conversely, the duration, distance, and the timing of dry season migrations varied idiosyncratically. The drivers of elephant migration are likely a complex interaction between individual traits, density, and the distribution and availability of resources. Despite most migrations crossing administrative boundaries, conservation networks provided functional space for elephants to migrate.
Primary human nasal epithelial cells: a source of poly (I:C) LMW-induced IL-6 production
Authors: Ramezanpour Mahnaz , Bolt Harrison , Psaltis Alkis James , Wormald Peter-John , Vreugde Sarah
Published: July 2018

Infection plays a significant role in the relapse of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), however, the role of primary human nasal epithelial cells (HNECs) in this process is largely unknown. Here, we determined the effect of Toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists and inflammatory cytokines on mucosal barrier integrity and immune response of HNECs. TLR 1–9 agonists and inflammatory cytokines were applied to submerged and/or air-liquid interface (ALI) cultures of HNECs from CRS patients and controls for 24 hours. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) protein levels were determined by ELISA. Mucosal barrier integrity was measured via Transepithelial Electrical Resistance and passage of fluorescently-labelled dextrans. IL-1β and IFN- γ significantly increased IL-6 production in HNECs derived from CRS patients and controls, however, a dose-dependent effect was observed in CRS-derived HNECs only. Stimulation with Poly (I:C) LMW induced a 15 to 17 fold increase in IL-6 production by HNEC-ALI control cells (p < 0.05) and HNEC-ALI-CRS cells (p = 0.004) whilst a 2.5 fold increase was observed in CRS HNEC submerged cultures. Priming of cells with Poly (I:C) LMW reduced subsequent IL-6 secretion upon stimulation with TLR 2–4 agonists. Poly (I:C) LMW exerts a potent pro-inflammatory effect on HNECs and reduces a subsequent immune activation by TLR agonists.
Preparation of enzyme-functionalized carbon nanotubes and their application in glucose and Fe2+ detection through “turn on” and “turn off” approaches
Authors: Wang Chengke , Wang Qingqing , Tan Rong
Published: July 2018

Herein, we report the preparation of enzyme-conjugated carbon nanotubes for the detection of Fe2+ and glucose with enhanced signal intensity.
Copper-catalyzed α-benzylation of BODIPYs via radical-triggered oxidative cross-coupling of two C–H bonds
Authors: Lv Fan , Yu Yang , Hao Erhong , Yu Changjiang , Wang Hua , Jiao Lijuan , Boens Noël
Published: July 2018

An oxidative cross-dehydrogenative coupling of BODIPYs with toluene and it derivatives has been developed, allowing for the facile synthesis of a broad range of structurally diverse α-benzylated BODIPYs with high solid-state fluorescence.
Schiff base interaction tuned mesoporous organosilica nanoplatforms with pH-responsive degradability for efficient anti-cancer drug delivery in vivo
Authors: Liu Lei , Kong Chao , Huo Meng , Liu Chengyu , Peng Liao , Zhao Tian , Wei Yen , Qian Feng , Yuan Jinying
Published: July 2018

A drug delivery system mediated by Schiff base interaction incorporated mesoporous organosilica nanoparticles exhibits tumor/pH-responsive degradability and enhanced anti-cancer efficacy.
Oximinotrifluoromethylation of unactivated alkenes under ambient conditions
Authors: Wang Na , Wang Jian , Guo Yu-Long , Li Lei , Sun Yan , Li Zhuang , Zhang Hong-Xia , Guo Zhen , Li Zhong-Liang , Liu Xin-Yuan
Published: July 2018

An oximinotrifluoromethylation of unactivated alkenes was developed via trifluoromethyl radical-induced intramolecular remote oximino migration under mild reaction conditions.
Real-time tracing the changes in the intracellular pH value during apoptosis by near-infrared ratiometric fluorescence imaging
Authors: Lin Liyun , Zhao Jingjin , Zhang Liangliang , Huang Yong , Ye Fanggui , Zhao Shulin
Published: July 2018

A single-excitation dual-emission nanoprobe with near-infrared response was developed for real-time tracing the changes in the pH value during hydrogen peroxide-induced apoptosis by ratiometric fluorescence imaging.
The effect of the experimental parameters on the growth of MoS2 flakes
Authors: Chen Fei , Su Weitao
Published: July 2018

The growth mechanism and optical performance of MoS2 crystals have been systemically studied by manipulating the growth parameters.
An expanded MIL-53-type coordination polymer with a reactive pendant ligand
Authors: Kunicki Hannah , Chamberlain Thomas W. , Clarkson Guy J. , Kashtiban Reza J. , Hooper Joseph E. , Dawson Daniel M. , Ashbrook Sharon E. , Walton Richard I.
Published: July 2018

A bulky pendant pyridine-N-oxide ligand provides an expanded MIL-53 structure containing divalent framework cations with an extra-framework site for functionalisation.
Photophysics of indole upon X-ray absorption
Authors: Kierspel Thomas , Bomme Cédric , Di Fraia Michele , Wiese Joss , Anielski Denis , Bari Sadia , Boll Rebecca , Erk Benjamin , Kienitz Jens S. , Müller Nele L. M. , Rolles Daniel , Viefhaus Jens , Trippel Sebastian , Küpper Jochen
Published: July 2018

A photofragmentation study of gas-phase indole (C8H7N) upon single-photon ionization at a photon energy of 420 eV is presented.
Regular patterns of the effects of hydrogen-containing additives on the formation of CdSe monomer
Authors: Qi Ting , Lyu Ya-Jing , Wang Zhao-Meng , Yang Hua-Qing , Hu Chang-Wei
Published: July 2018

HY (HY = RSH, or ROH, or RNH2) with HPPh2 additives determine the formation of Ph2P–SeCd–Y or Ph2P–SeCdSe–Y monomers.
Experimental and theoretical investigations of infrared multiple photon dissociation spectra of arginine complexes with Zn2+ and Cd2+
Authors: Chalifoux Aaron M. , Boles Georgia C. , Berden Giel , Oomens Jos , Armentrout P. B.
Published: July 2018

Arginine (Arg) complexes with Zn2+ and Cd2+ were examined by infrared multiple photon dissociation (IRMPD) action spectroscopy using light from a free electron laser.
Fast kinetics studies of the Lewis acid–base complexation of transient stannylenes with σ- and π-donors in solution
Authors: Duffy Ian R. , Leigh William J.
Published: July 2018

The complexation of SnMe2 and SnPh2 with a variety of σ- and π-donors and its effects on their dimerization reactions has been studied by laser flash photolysis and DFT methods, and compared to reported data for the Si and Ge homologues.
Semi-empirical or non-empirical double-hybrid density functionals: which are more robust?
Authors: Mehta Nisha , Casanova-Páez Marcos , Goerigk Lars
Published: July 2018

The largest double-hybrid DFT study cleans up the ‘zoo’ of non-empirical double hybrids and reveals their lack of general applicability.
Properties that rank protein:protein docking poses with high accuracy
Authors: Simões Inês C. M. , Coimbra João T. S. , Neves Rui P. P. , Costa Inês P. D. , Ramos Maria J. , Fernandes Pedro A.
Published: July 2018

The development of docking algorithms to predict near-native structures of protein:protein complexes from the structure of the isolated monomers is of paramount importance for molecular biology and drug discovery.
A comprehensive overview of directing groups applied in metal-catalysed C–H functionalisation chemistry
Authors: Sambiagio Carlo , Schönbauer David , Blieck Remi , Dao-Huy Toan , Pototschnig Gerit , Schaaf Patricia , Wiesinger Thomas , Zia Muhammad Farooq , Wencel-Delord Joanna , Besset Tatiana , Maes Bert U. W. , Schnürch Michael
Published: July 2018

The present review is devoted to summarizing the recent advances (2015–2017) in the field of metal-catalysed group-directed C–H functionalisation.
Amide versus amine ligand paradigm in the direct amination of alcohols with Ru-PNP complexes
Authors: Pingen Dennis , Choi Jong-Hoo , Allen Henry , Murray George , Ganji Prasad , van Leeuwen Piet W. N. M. , Prechtl Martin H. G. , Vogt Dieter
Published: July 2018

Ruthenium complexes of PNP-ligands bearing secondary amines were found to be inactive in the alcohol amination with NH3, while all complexes of homologous ligands bearing tertiary amines gave active catalysts!
Deactivation behavior of an iron-molybdate catalyst during selective oxidation of methanol to formaldehyde
Authors: Raun Kristian Viegaard , Lundegaard Lars Fahl , Chevallier Jacques , Beato Pablo , Appel Charlotte Clausen , Nielsen Kenneth , Thorhauge Max , Jensen Anker Degn , Høj Martin
Published: July 2018

Molybdenum loss, phase transformations and catalytic performance of an iron molybdate catalyst.
Investigation of sludge reduction and biogas generation in high-rate anaerobic side-stream reactors for wastewater treatment
Authors: Park Chul , Chon Dong-Hyun , Brennan Aaron , Eom Heonseop
Published: July 2018

Activated sludge systems incorporating a 2 day anaerobic side-stream reactor (ASSR) show significantly decreased waste sludge production.
Catalytic conversion of furanic compounds over Ga-modified ZSM-5 zeolites as a route to biomass-derived aromatics
Authors: Uslamin Evgeny A. , Kosinov Nikolay A. , Pidko Evgeny A. , Hensen Emiel J. M.
Published: July 2018

Herein we report a mechanistic study of aromatization of furanics, as model compounds for cellulosic biomass, over (Ga)HZSM-5 catalysts.
Exploiting the real wastewater potential for resource recovery –n-caproate production from acid whey
Authors: Duber Anna , Jaroszynski Lukasz , Zagrodnik Roman , Chwialkowska Joanna , Juzwa Wojciech , Ciesielski Slawomir , Oleskowicz-Popiel Piotr
Published: July 2018

A carboxylate platform-based bioprocess now enables the conversion of organic waste into a valuable bioproductviaopen culture fermentation due to a complex microbial activity.
Green synthesis of MoS2 nanoflowers for efficient degradation of methylene blue and crystal violet dyes under natural sun light conditions
Authors: Sadhanala H. K. , Senapati Subrata , Harika Krishna Villa , Nanda Karuna Kar , Gedanken Aharon
Published: July 2018

Hydrothermally synthesized MoS2 NFs have been employed as an efficient photocatalyst for the degradation of MB and CV dyes under sunlight.
Chiral separation and a molecular modeling study of eight azole antifungals on the cellulose tris(3,5-dichlorophenylcarbamate) chiral stationary phase
Authors: Zhu Bolin , Zhao Fan , Yu Jia , Wang Zhaokun , Song Yongbo , Li Qing
Published: July 2018

Four immobilized polysaccharide-based chiral stationary phases have been examined for their enantioselectivity on azole analytes using normal phase liquid chromatography.
Fabrication of PEGylated graphitic carbon nitride quantum dots as traceable, pH-sensitive drug delivery systems
Authors: Dong Jian , Zhao Yanli , Chen Hongyu , Liu Li , Zhang Wenxian , Sun Baoliang , Yang Mingfeng , Wang Yi , Dong Lifeng
Published: July 2018

Fluorescent PEGylated carbon nitride quantum dots are synthesized and characterized for traceable drug delivery and cell imaging.
The role of boron in the carrier transport improvement of CdSe-sensitized B,N,F-TiO2 nanotube solar cells: a synergistic strategy
Authors: Gualdrón-Reyes Andrés. F. , Meléndez Angel M. , Mejía-Escobar Mario Alejandro , Jaramillo Franklin , Niño-Gómez Martha E.
Published: July 2018

The presence of boron intensifies the synergistic effect of doping and sensitization to improve charge carrier transport into solar devices.
Direct synthesis of alkynylphosphonates from alkynes and phosphite esters catalyzed by Cu/Cu2O nanoparticles supported on Nb2O5
Authors: Yuan Tao , Chen Fei , Lu Guo-ping
Published: July 2018

A new, recyclable and efficient copper catalyst for cross-couplings of alkynes and phosphite esters has been disclosed, in which the synergistic effects of Nb2O5 on the catalyst are found owing to its strong Lewis acid sites.
(1,4-Butyldiammonium)CdBr4: a layered organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite with a visible-blind ultraviolet photoelectric response
Authors: Wang Yuyin , Ji Chengmin , Liu Xitao , Han Shiguo , Zhang Jing , Sun Zhihua , Khan Asma , Luo Junhua
Published: July 2018

We report an organic–inorganic hybrid adopting two-dimensional layered perovskite, which shows a visible-blind ultraviolet photoelectric properties.
Sharp-featured Au@Ag core/shell nanocuboid synthesis and the label-free ultrasensitive SERS detection of protein single-point mutations
Authors: Tu Guopeng , Deogratias Ntirikwendera , Xu Meng , Li Xiaowei , Liu Jiajia , Jiang Lan , Yang Yanlian , Zhang Jiatao
Published: July 2018

Sharp-featured Au@Ag core/shell nanocuboids were synthesized.
Correction: Hydrazone–palladium catalyzed annulation of 1-cinnamyloxy-2-ethynylbenzene derivatives
Authors: Watanabe Kohei , Mino Takashi , Ikematsu Tatsuya , Hatta Chikako , Yoshida Yasushi , Sakamoto Masami
Published: July 2018

Correction for ‘Hydrazone–palladium catalyzed annulation of 1-cinnamyloxy-2-ethynylbenzene derivatives’ by Kohei Watanabe et al., Org. Chem. Front., 2016, 3, 979–984.
Feasibility of polyethylene composites reinforced by distillers dried fibers with solubles (DDFS) after different generations of ethanol fermentation
Authors: Chen Bo , Shen Xiaotong , Luo Zhangfeng , Chen Huidong , Cai Di , Chen Changjing , Zhang Changwei , Qin Peiyong , Cao Hui , Tan Tianwei
Published: July 2018

Flowchart of the process for prepares polyethylene/DDFS composites. Solid residuals after 1 G, 1.5 G and 2 G SSF bioethanol plants were used as the reinforcement.
Fabrication of strontium/calcium containing poly(γ-glutamic acid) – organosiloxane fibrous hybrid materials for osteoporotic bone regeneration
Authors: Gao Chunxia , Zhao Ke , Wu Yaping , Gao Qiang , Zhu Peizhi
Published: July 2018

Recent researches have proved that combination of several therapeutic metal ions, such as silicate (Si), calcium (Ca), strontium (Sr) and so on, with biomaterials may have promising effects for stimulating bone regeneration.
Chitosan capped nickel oxide nanoparticles as a saturable absorber in a tunable passively Q-switched erbium doped fiber laser
Authors: Ahmad Harith , Reduan Siti Aisyah , Yusoff Norazriena
Published: July 2018

Nickel oxide (NiO) nanoparticles prepared from a nickel(ii) chloride hexahydrate precursor are used to form a chitosan capped NiO nanoparticle thin film that serves as a saturable absorber in a passively Q-switched erbium doped fiber laser.
Three-dimensional mesoporous calcium carbonate–silica frameworks thermally activated from porous fossil bryophyte: adsorption studies for heavy metal uptake
Authors: Wang Wenlei , He Ren , Yang Tianli , Hu Yunchu , Zhang Ning , Yang Can
Published: July 2018

Three-dimensional mesoporous calcium carbonate–silica frameworks have been created and have shown excellent adsorption capacities for Cd(ii) and Pb(ii).
P1c peptide decorated liposome targeting αvβ3-expressing tumor cellsin vitroandin vivo
Authors: Xu Wei , Yan Xuejiao , Liu Naifeng , Wu Guoqiu
Published: July 2018

A novel peptide of P1c decorated liposomes targets an integrin αvβ3 expressed tumor.
Taming of tetranitroethane: a promising precursor for high performance energetic ingredients
Authors: Yin Ping , Yu Qiong , Dharavath Srinivas , Shreeve Jean'ne M.
Published: July 2018

Taming of tetranitroethane gives rise to various ionic complexes as new energetic ingredients.
A mechanically robust transparent coating for anti-icing and self-cleaning applications
Authors: Wu Xinghua , Chen Zhong
Published: July 2018

Mechanically robust, transparent coatings that display very low affinity with ice and various liquids are promising for applications in outdoor facilities and marine and aerospace structures.
Optimizing the thermoelectric transport properties of BiCuSeO via doping with the rare-earth variable-valence element Yb
Authors: Kang Huijun , Li Jinling , Liu Yinqiao , Guo Enyu , Chen Zongning , Liu Daquan , Fan Guohua , Zhang Yuwei , Jiang Xue , Wang Tongmin
Published: July 2018

Herein, we propose for the first time a novel recipe to improve the thermoelectric properties of BiCuSeO by doping with variable valence elements.
Successful turning on of MOSAs under very fast transients
Authors: Raju Kannadasan , Prasad Valsalal
Published: July 2018

There is a general view that metal oxide surge arresters (MOSAs) are not in a position to offer an effective and consistent protection against very fast transient overvoltages (VFTOs). Quite predictably, it portrays MOSA in a poor light. The present sandwiched position of the arrester is mainly due to the combined effects of strong stray and block capacitances existing in an extra high voltage (EHV) network and the characteristic features of the incoming VFTOs. Contrary to this ‘popular view’, the theoretical performance assessment studies detailed here establish that a successful turnaround in the operation of MOSA under VFTOs is quite achievable. A detailed account of the electromagnetic transients programme (EMTP) and simulation studies performed is given; several oft‐repeated, critical questions are also addressed. Essential measures to shore up the operation of MOSAs under VFTOs have also been brought to the fore. Finally, this study is a culmination of the ‘persistent efforts, brings a happy ending to a long pending issue’ and paves way for an effective and consistent protection to gas insulated substation (GIS) and its connected equipment against all kinds of life‐threatening overvoltage surges that include VFTOs.
Drifting pattern and positioning method of oscillation centre in multi‐source oscillation scenes
Authors: Ma Jing , Shen Yaqi , Li Pei , Thorp James S.
Published: July 2018

The variation characteristics of electrical variables and the variation pattern of oscillation centre in multi‐source oscillation scenes are revealed, and a desynchronising centre positioning method is proposed. First, based on the multi‐source oscillation model, the expressions of voltage and current in multi‐source oscillation scenes are derived. And then, according to the definition of oscillation centre, the oscillation centre position function is constructed, as a quantitative description of the position of oscillation centre. On this basis, the impacts of power angle variation trend (oscillation mode), system operation mode variation and unequal emf amplitudes on the oscillation centre are analysed. Simulation results demonstrate that, the oscillation mode is the main factor that affects the drifting pattern of oscillation centre, system operation mode is the main factor that determines the drifting boundary of oscillation centre, and unequal emf amplitudes cause the oscillation centre to deviate towards the side with lower amplitude. Finally, according to the relationship between system emfs when the desynchronising centre appears, the desynchronising centre position function is derived, so that the position of desynchronising centre can be identified. Simulation results on Real Time Digital Simulator of multi‐machine system verify the correctness of the analysis results.
How common is LBV S Doradus variability at low metallicity?
Authors: Kalari V. M. , Vink J. S. , Dufton P. L. , Fraser M.
Published: July 2018

It remains unclear whether massive star evolution is facilitated by mass loss through stellar winds only or whether episodic mass loss during an eruptive luminous blue variable (LBV) phase is also significant. LBVs exhibit unique photometric and spectroscopic variability (termed S Doradus variables). This may have tremendous implications for our understanding of the first stars, gravitational wave events, and supernovae. A key question here is whether all evolved massive stars passing through the blue supergiant phase are dormant S Doradus variables transforming during a brief period or whether LBVs are truly unique objects. By investigating the OGLE light curves of 64 B supergiants (Bsgs) in the Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC) on a timescale of three years with a cadence of one night, the incidence of S Doradus variables amongst the Bsgs population is investigated. From our sample, we find just one Bsg, AzV 261, that displays the photometric behaviour characteristic of S Doradus variables. We obtain and study a new VLT X-shooter spectrum of AzV 261 in order to investigate whether the object has changed its effective temperature over the last decade. We do not find any effective temperature variations indicating that the object is unlikely to be a LBV S Doradus variable. As there is only one previous bona fide S Doradus variable known to be present in the SMC (R 40), we find the maximum duration of the LBV phase in the SMC to be at most a few 103yr or more likely that canonical Bsgs, and S Doradus LBVs are intrinsically different objects. We discuss the implications for massive star evolution in low-metallicity environments, characteristic of the early Universe.
Erkältungsmittel aus der Klosterapotheke
Authors: Gottfried Mayer Johannes , Will Heike
Published: July 2018

Pflanzen der Klostermedizin, ergänzt durch wenige moderne Phytotherapeutika, bieten bei Erkältungskrankheiten bis heute den größten Therapieerfolg. Entzündungslindernde Pflanzen wie Süßholz, Ringelblume und Kamille lassen sich geschickt mit Expektoranzien wie Thymian und wärmenden Mitteln wie Senföl-Lieferanten kombinieren. Schleimdrogen wie Eibisch und Malve ergänzen klassische Hustenpflanzen wie Fenchel, Schlüsselblume, Andorn und Königskerze.
Alter neuer Königsweg: Die Durchspülungstherapie
Authors: Johannes Gottfried Mayer , Katharina Mantel
Published: July 2018

Zu den wichtigen Indikationen der Durchspülungstherapie zählen Harnwegsinfekte, Reizblase und Nierengrieß. Traditionelle Heilpflanzen wie Birke, Wacholder und Schachtelhalm zeigen durchspülende Effekte. In jüngster Zeit wurden Senfölen zum Beispiel in Meerrettich und Kapuzinerkresse deutlich antibiotische Effekte bei Harnwegsinfekten bescheinigt.
Patientensicherheit
Authors: Beyer Katharina , Heidecke Claus-Dieter
Published: July 2018

Seit vor knapp 20 Jahren vermeidbare Fehler in Bezug auf die Krankenhausmortalität einen höheren Stellenwert in der öffentlichen Aufmerksamkeit erfuhren, wurden sowohl international als auch national Maßnahmen zur Verbesserung der Patientensicherheit ergriffen. Dabei definierte die WHO sogenannte „Global Patient Safety Challenges“ mit dem Ziel, Risikobereiche für vermeidbare Fehler zu identifizieren und durch Maßnahmenpakete diesen vorzubeugen. In Deutschland wurde die Kampagne „Save lives: clean your hands“ durch die Aktion Saubere Hände umgesetzt. Diese führte zu einer verbesserten Compliance hinsichtlich der hygienischen Händedesinfektion. Die flächendeckenden Folgen hinsichtlich nosokomialer Infektionen und der Übertragung multiresistenter Erreger sind noch nicht ausreichend evaluiert.

Die Kampagne „Save Surgery saves lives“ führte mit der Etablierung der WHO Operationscheckliste zu einem Meilenstein in der Patientensicherheit bei chirurgischen Eingriffen. Eine Umfrage der DGCH und des BDCs ergab, dass die Checkliste mittlerweile flächendeckend etabliert ist, jedoch nur in knapp zwei Drittel der Fälle vollständig abgefragt wird. Dass die Implementierung der Checkliste zu einer erniedrigten postoperativen Mortalität führt, ist durch Kohortenstudien und Metaanalysen belegt.
Register der schwierigen chirurgischen Situationen
Authors: Korenkov Michael , Dralle Henning , Klar Ernst , Saad Stefan , Senninger Norbert , Standop Jens , Stier Albrecht , Strik Martin , Ulrich Alexis , Weiner Rudolf
Published: July 2018

Als schwierige chirurgische Situation wird jedes Problem, das zu einem erhöhten Risiko für intra- oder postoperative Komplikationen führen kann, bezeichnet. Bezogen auf diese Definition wurde von Korenkov et al. eine präoperative Klassifikation erweiterter intraoperativer Schwierigkeiten entwickelt. Diese Klassifikation bezieht sich auf das Ausmaß der chirurgisch-technischen Schwierigkeiten von Schweregrad 1 – technisch einfach zu operieren, bis Schweregrad 4 – jede operationstechnische Handlung ist sehr schwierig. Für die Evaluierung des Schweregrads der intraoperativen Komplikationen schlug die Arbeitsgruppe um Kaafarani die Klassifikation der intraoperativen negativen Ereignisse vor. In Abhängigkeit vom Schweregrad wurden die intraoperativen Komplikationen auf 6 Klassen von der 1. (unproblematisch beseitigte Komplikationen) bis zur 6. Klasse (intraoperativer Exitus letalis) aufgeteilt. Für eine Systematisierung des Schweregrads der postoperativen Komplikationen hat sich weltweit die Klassifikation von Clavien-Dindo etabliert. In dieser Klassifikation sind die postoperativen Komplikationen von Schweregrad 1 (jede Abweichung vom normalen postoperativen Verlauf mit „minimaler“ Behandlung) bis zum Schweregrad 5 (Tod des Patienten) aufgeteilt. Gestützt auf die vorgeschlagenen Klassifikationen und auf die Problematik der individuellen Entscheidungen in der Chirurgie entstand die Grundidee, ein Register (SCS-Register) zu etablieren. Das Hauptprinzip solcher Studien ist die Ansammlung der individuellen Erfahrungen von operierenden Chirurgen. Die wissenschaftliche Analyse fokussiert sich auf die Sondersituationen, bei denen das Behandlungskonzept an die individuelle Patientensituation adaptiert war und manchmal von den gängigen Standards abwich. Die Registrierung und Bearbeitung der angemeldeten Fälle wird auf der Basis der entsprechenden IT-Plattform anonym geführt. Das Ziel dieses Registers ist, die schwierigen chirurgischen Fälle bundesweit zu sammeln, zu registrieren und zu analysieren, um für die operierenden Chirurgen eine zugängliche Datenbank zu gestalten. Dabei wird für jeden Chirurgen die Möglichkeit bestehen, nachzulesen, wie der eine oder andere Kollege in ähnlich schwierigen Situationen gehandelt hat.
Application of the Z-Selective Still–Gennari Olefination Protocol for the Synthesis of Z-α,β-Unsaturated Phosphonates
Authors: Janicki Ignacy , Kiełbasiński Piotr
Published: July 2018

Application of the Z-selective Still–Gennari modification of Horner–Wadsworth–Emmons (HWE) reaction for the olefination of acylphosphonates is presented. A series of new Z-α,β-unsaturated phosphonates containing a carbonyl or ester moiety in the β-position were obtained in up to 94% yield and with up to 96% Z-selectivity. The standard HWE olefination of the acylphosphonates, which was performed for comparison, was either unsuccessful at all, or resulted in an inferior Z-selectivity and lower isolated yields.
Risk of Postoperative Performance Status Worsening after Resection of Lesions Involving the Motor Pathway: A Multinomial Logistic Regression Model
Authors: Pesce Alessandro , Fraschetti Flavia , D'Andrea Giancarlo , Polli Filippo , Acqui Michele , Frati Alessandro , Raco Antonino
Published: July 2018

Background and Study Objective In surgery for gliomas and brain metastases, preservation of neurologic functions is essential to ensure a good quality of life and the eligibility for adjuvant therapies. This article assesses which factors could influence the functional outcome in patients with lesions located in the motor pathways.

Materials and Methods A total of 92 patients with gliomas and metastases involving the motor pathways were studied for concerns regarding quality of life (Karnofsky performance status [KPS] and modified Rankin scale [mRS]) before and after surgical treatment supported by intraoperative neuromonitoring. Patient-related, surgery-related, and lesion-related data were recorded to identify the relationships with postoperative performance status. The relationship between lesions and the corticospinal tract were investigated with preoperative magnetic resonance imaging sequences and tractographic reconstructions.

Results Means of preoperative mRS and KPS were 1.91 ± 1.34 and 80.8 ± 20, and at 30 days postoperatively they were 1.93 ± 1.63 and 79.8 ± 24.4, respectively. The better preoperative performance status was a predictor of better outcome in terms of quality of life. Gender showed a statistical association with ∆KPS (p = 0.033) and ∆mRS (p = 0.031). A recurrent lesion was a predictor of poor functional outcome (p= 0.045 for KPS at 30 days).A left-sided lesion showed a statistical association with a lesser improvement with respect to right sided. Complications were associated with a lesser functional improvement (∆mRS, ∆KPS, and clinical improvement: p = 0.001, p = 0.006, and p = 0.003, respectively). Hemorrhagic complications were associated with the worst functional prognosis.

Conclusions In our experience, factors associated with worse functional prognosis and quality of life were a poor preoperative performance status, female gender, operating on a recurrent lesion, involvement of the left corticospinal tract, and surgical or medical postoperative complications.
Plasma Kallikrein-Kinin System in Patients with Uncomplicated Sepsis and Septic Shock-Comparison with Cardiogenic Shock
Authors: Martínez-Brotóns F , Oncins J R , Mestres J , Amargós V , Reynaldo C
Published: July 2018

Alterations of the kallikrein-kinin system consistent with activation and increased consumption have been re2ported in septic patients and it has been suggested that this activation could contribute to the development of septic shock.

The aim of this work was to confirm these alterations in septic patients and to investigate the possible existence of similar changes in subjects developing cardiogenic shock secondary to myocardial infarction as a model of non septic shock.

Patients with septic shock, especially in fatal cases, showed a highly significant decrease in levels of factor XII, prekallikrein, high molecular weight kininogen (HMW-kininogen), α2-macro-globulin (α2-M) and antithrombin III (AT-III). C1-esterase inhibitor (C1-INH) activity was increased in uncomplicated sepsis but came back to normal or was slightly decreased in septic shock.

Components and inhibitors of the kallikrein-kinin system were within normal limits in patients with cardiogenic shock.

Our findings support the idea of a contribution of the kallikrein-kinin system to the development of septic shock though this system does not seem to play a significant role in the pathogenesis of cardiogenic shock or seem to be altered as a consequence of it.