bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling organic carbon loss from a rapidly eroding freshwater coastal wetland
Authors: Braun Katherine N. , Theuerkauf Ethan J. , Masterson Andrew L. , Curry B. Brandon , Horton Daniel E.
Published: March 2019

Shoreline erosion can transition freshwater coastal wetlands from carbon sinks to carbon sources. No studies have explored the impacts of coastal geomorphic processes on freshwater wetland carbon budgets. To do so, we modified a saltmarsh carbon budget model for application in freshwater coastal wetlands. We validated the model with data from a shoreline wetland in the Laurentian Great Lakes. The model generates the carbon budget by differencing carbon export and carbon storage. The inputs for carbon storage are the carbon inventory and maximum wetland age. Inputs for carbon export include erosion rates and overwash extent. The model demonstrates that the wetland examined in this study transitioned to a source of carbon during periods of erosion. In fact, the net carbon export between 2015 and 2018 was 8.1% of the wetland’s original carbon stock. This study indicates that geomorphic change can dictate whether and how freshwater coastal wetlands serve as sources or sinks for terrestrial carbon, and that carbon stocks can fluctuate on a geologically rapid timescale. We recommend that such geomorphic processes be considered when developing carbon budgets for these marginal environments. Furthermore, the carbon budget model refined in this study can be used to prioritize wetlands in land management and conservation efforts.
Unraveling RNA dynamical behavior of TPP riboswitches: a comparison between Escherichia coli and Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Antunes Deborah , Jorge Natasha Andressa Nogueira , Garcia de Souza Costa Mauricio , Passetti Fabio , Caffarena Ernesto Raul
Published: March 2019

Riboswitches are RNA sensors that affect post-transcriptional processes through their ability to bind to small molecules. Thiamine pyrophosphate (TPP) riboswitch class is the most widespread riboswitch occurring in all three domains of life. Even though it controls different genes involved in the synthesis or transport of thiamine and its phosphorylated derivatives in bacteria, archaea, fungi, and plants, the TPP aptamer has a conserved structure. In this study, we aimed at understanding differences in the structural dynamics of TPP riboswitches from Escherichia coli and Arabidopsis thaliana, based on their crystallographic structures (TPPswec and TPPswat, respectively) and dynamics in aqueous solution, both in apo and holo states. A combination of Molecular Dynamics Simulations and Network Analysis empowered to find out slight differences in the dynamical behavior of TPP riboswitches, although relevant for their dynamics in bacteria and plants species. Our results suggest that distinct interactions in the microenvironment surrounding nucleotide U36 of TPPswec (and U35 in TPPswat) are related to different responses to TPP. The network analysis showed that minor structural differences in the aptamer enable enhanced intramolecular communication in the presence of TPP in TPPswec, but not in TPPswat. TPP riboswitches of plants present subtler and slower regulation mechanisms than bacteria do.
CRIS.py: A Versatile and High-throughput Analysis Program for CRISPR-based Genome Editing
Authors: Connelly Jon P. , Pruett-Miller Shondra M.
Published: March 2019

CRISPR-Cas9 technology allows the creation of user-defined genomic modifications in cells and whole organisms. However, quantifying editing rates in pools of cells or identifying correctly edited clones is tedious. Targeted next-generation sequencing provides a high-throughput platform for optimizing editing reagents and identifying correctly modified clones, but the large amount of data produced can be difficult to analyze. Here, we present CRIS.py, a simple and highly versatile python-based program which concurrently analyzes next-generation sequencing data for both knock-out and multiple user-specified knock-in modifications from one or many edited samples. Compared to available NGS analysis programs for CRISPR based-editing, CRIS.py has many advantages: (1) the ability to analyze from one to thousands of samples at once, (2) the capacity to check each sample for multiple sequence modifications, including those induced by base-editors, (3) an output in an easily searchable file format enabling users to quickly sort through and identify correctly targeted clones.
Sex Affects the Relationship Between Third Party Punishment and Cooperation
Authors: Rodriguez-Ruiz Claudia , Muñoz-Reyes José Antonio , Iglesias-Julios Marta , Sanchez-Pages Santiago , Turiegano Enrique
Published: March 2019

Prosocial third-party punishment (3PP) is a punitive behavior against antisocial individuals, which might explain extended cooperativeness in humans. 3PP shows sexual dimorphism, being more frequent in men than in women. We studied whether sexually dimorphic features related to sexual hormones during development (facial dimorphism and 2D:4D) influence the tendency to engage in 3PP in a sample of 511 women and 328 men. After playing a Prisoner’s Dilemma, participants had to decide whether to penalize the defection of a third player who had exploited his/her counterpart’s cooperation. In line with previous studies, we observe that men are more prone to engage in 3PP than women. We find that this sex difference is due to cooperative men being more likely to punish than cooperative women. In addition, men with higher facial masculinity are less likely to engage in 3PP, whereas no features influence 3PP in women. We discuss the possibility that sex differences in the motivations and fitness implications underlying 3PP might be driving the observed results.
Neural Dynamics of Shooting Decisions and the Switch from Freeze to Fight
Authors: Hashemi Mahur M. , Gladwin Thomas E. , de Valk Naomi M. , Zhang Wei , Kaldewaij Reinoud , van Ast Vanessa , Koch Saskia B. J. , Klumpers Floris , Roelofs Karin
Published: March 2019

Real-life shooting decisions typically occur under acute threat and require fast switching between vigilant situational assessment and immediate fight-or-flight actions. Recent studies suggested that freezing facilitates action preparation and decision-making but the neurocognitive mechanisms remain unclear. We applied functional magnetic resonance imaging, posturographic and autonomic measurements while participants performed a shooting task under threat of shock. Two independent studies, in unselected civilians (N = 22) and police recruits (N = 54), revealed that preparation for shooting decisions under threat is associated with postural freezing, bradycardia, midbrain activity (including the periaqueductal gray-PAG) and PAG-amygdala connectivity. Crucially, stronger activity in the midbrain/PAG during this preparatory stage of freezing predicted faster subsequent accurate shooting. Finally, the switch from preparation to active shooting was associated with tachycardia, perigenual anterior cingulate cortex (pgACC) activity and pgACC-amygdala connectivity. These findings suggest that threat-anticipatory midbrain activity centred around the PAG supports decision-making by facilitating action preparation and highlight the role of the pgACC when switching from preparation to action. These results translate animal models of the neural switch from freeze-to-action. In addition, they reveal a core neural circuit for shooting performance under threat and provide empirical evidence for the role of defensive reactions such as freezing in subsequent action decision-making.
Regulation of folate and methionine metabolism by multisite phosphorylation of human methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase
Authors: Zheng Yuxiang , Ramsamooj Shivan , Li Qian , Johnson Jared L. , Yaron Tomer M. , Sharra Klaus , Cantley Lewis C.
Published: March 2019

Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) catalyzes the irreversible conversion of 5,10-methylene-tetrahydrofolate (THF) to 5-methyl-THF, thereby committing one-carbon units to the methionine cycle. While MTHFR has long been known to be allosterically inhibited by S-adenosylmethionine (SAM), only relatively recently has N-terminal multisite phosphorylation been shown to provide an additional layer of regulation. In vitro, the multiply phosphorylated form of MTHFR is more sensitive to allosteric inhibition by SAM. Here we sought to investigate the kinases responsible for MTHFR multisite phosphorylation and the physiological function of MTHFR phosphorylation in cells. We identified DYRK1A/2 and GSK3A/B among the kinases that phosphorylate MTHFR. In addition, we found that MTHFR phosphorylation is maintained by adequate cellular SAM levels, which are sensed through the C-terminal SAM binding domain of MTHFR. To understand the function of MTHFR phosphorylation in cells, we generated MTHFR CRISPR knockin mutant lines that effectively abolished MTHFR phosphorylation and compared them with the parental cell lines. Whereas the parental cell lines showed increased 5-methyl-THF production in response to homocysteine treatment, the knockin cell lines had high basal levels of 5-methyl-THF and did not respond to homocysteine treatment. Overall, our results suggest that MTHFR multisite phosphorylation coordinates with SAM binding to inhibit MTHFR activity in cells.
Dental integration and modularity in pinnipeds
Authors: Wolsan Mieczyslaw , Suzuki Satoshi , Asahara Masakazu , Motokawa Masaharu
Published: March 2019

Morphological integration and modularity are important for understanding phenotypic evolution because they constrain variation subjected to selection and enable independent evolution of functional and developmental units. We report dental integration and modularity in representative otariid (Eumetopias jubatus, Callorhinus ursinus) and phocid (Phoca largha, Histriophoca fasciata) species of Pinnipedia. This is the first study of integration and modularity in a secondarily simplified dentition with simple occlusion. Integration was stronger in both otariid species than in either phocid species and related positively to dental occlusion and negatively to both modularity and tooth-size variability across all the species. The canines and third upper incisor were most strongly integrated, comprising a module that likely serves as occlusal guides for the postcanines. There was no or weak modularity among tooth classes. The reported integration is stronger than or similar to that in mammals with complex dentition and refined occlusion. We hypothesise that this strong integration is driven by dental occlusion, and that it is enabled by reduction of modularity that constrains overall integration in complex dentitions. We propose that modularity was reduced in pinnipeds during the transition to aquatic life in association with the origin of pierce-feeding and loss of mastication caused by underwater feeding.
Epidemiological evaluation of Latvian control measures for African swine fever in wild boar on the basis of surveillance data
Authors: Schulz Katja , Oļševskis Edvīns , Staubach Christoph , Lamberga Kristīne , Seržants Mārtiņš , Cvetkova Svetlana , Conraths Franz Josef , Sauter-Louis Carola
Published: March 2019

A wild boar population infected with African Swine Fever (ASF) constitutes a constant threat to commercial pig farms and therefore to the economy of the affected country. Currently, ASF is still spreading in several countries and the implementation of intensive measures such as reducing wild boar population densities seems not to be able to stop the further spread of the disease. In addition, there are still substantial knowledge gaps regarding the epidemiology of the disease. To identify risk factors for a higher probability of a wild boar sample being virological or serological positive, comprehensive statistical analyses were performed based on Latvian surveillance data. Using a multivariable Bayesian regression model, the effects of implemented control measures on the proportion of hunted or found dead wild boar or on the estimated virus prevalence were evaluated. None of the control measures applied in Latvia showed a significant effect on the relevant target figure. Also, the estimated periodic prevalence of wild boar that had tested ASF positive by PCR appeared to remain unaffected over time. Therefore, there is an urgent need to reconsider the implemented control measures. The results of this study and the course of ASF in other affected countries, raise the question, whether an endemic situation of ASF in wild boar is reversible.
Effects of the high-inequality of income on the breast cancer mortality in Brazil
Authors: dos Santos Figueiredo Francisco Winter , Adami Fernando
Published: March 2019

As well as breast cancer mortality, the income inequality in Brazil is different between Federative units, including between units of the same region. To assess the effects of the high-inequality of income on breast cancer mortality in Brazilian Federative Units, in the 2010 year. This is an ecologic study. Deaths from breast cancer in Brazilian women according to Federative units were obtained from the Department of Informatics of the Unified Health System. Mortality by breast cancer was estimated per 100,000 women and age-standardized by the direct method according to World Health Organization population. Income inequality was measured by the Gini index obtained from the United Nations Development Programme. The High-inequality of income was classified by the third tercile of the distribution from the Gini index of the Federative units. Univariate analysis was performed according to data normality. Linear regressions were performed by the stepwise backward method. The confidence level was 5%. Stata® (Stata Corp, LC) 11.0. was used. The High-inequality of income was associated with worse social and demographic indicators. The age-standardized breast cancer mortality was larger in the high-inequality of income Federative units. In the adjusted analysis, these Federative units presented a mean of 2 more deaths (ranging from the 0.4 to 3.7 deaths, r² = 0.79; p = 0.018) by breast cancer per 100,000 women when compared to the Federative units without high-inequality of income. In the Brazilian Federative units, the high-inequality of income was associated with age-standardized breast cancer mortality more.
Seabird nutrients are assimilated by corals and enhance coral growth rates
Authors: Savage Candida
Published: March 2019

Nutrient subsidies across ecotone boundaries can enhance productivity in the recipient ecosystem, especially if the nutrients are transferred from a nutrient rich to an oligotrophic ecosystem. This study demonstrates that seabird nutrients from islands are assimilated by endosymbionts in corals on fringing reefs and enhance growth of a dominant reef-building species, Acropora formosa. Nitrogen stable isotope ratios (δ15N) of zooxanthellae were enriched in corals near seabird colonies and decreased linearly with distance from land, suggesting that ornithogenic nutrients were assimilated in corals. In a one-year reciprocal transplant experiment, A. formosa fragments grew up to four times faster near the seabird site than conspecifics grown without the influence of seabird nutrients. The corals influenced by elevated ornithogenic nutrients were located within a marine protected area with abundant herbivorous fish populations, which kept nuisance macroalgae to negligible levels despite high nutrient concentrations. In this pristine setting, seabird nutrients provide a beneficial nutrient subsidy that increases growth of the ecologically important branching corals. The findings highlight the importance of catchment–to–reef management, not only for ameliorating negative impacts from land but also to maintain beneficial nutrient subsidies, in this case seabird guano.
An in vivo confocal, prospective, masked, 36 months study on glaucoma patients medically treated with preservative-free or preserved monotherapy
Authors: Rossi Gemma Caterina Maria , Scudeller Luigia , Lumini Chiara , Mirabile Alessandra Venera , Picasso Erica , Bettio Federica , Pasinetti Gian Maria , Bianchi Paolo Emilio
Published: March 2019

The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vivo effects at 3 years of preservative-free tafluprost on corneal health. It was a prospective, masked, study on consecutive patients with a new prescription of preservative-free (PF) tafluprost (naïve-N or switched-S, 44 and 14 patients), and preserved (P) bimatoprost 0.003% or travoprost 0.004% (P-group, 35 patients). A complete ophthalmic examination and an in vivo corneal confocal microscopy evaluation were performed at baseline and every 6 months for 3 years. Ninety-three patients were enrolled, clinical parameters were similar in the groups at baseline, apart from intraocular pressure (IOP) which was lower in the S-group (p = 0.012). Both at baseline and over time, confocal microscopy parameters had different trends. At baseline, keratocyte activation was similar in the three groups (p = 0.43) but over the next months naïve patients treated with PF-tafluprost presented a significant (p = 0.004) reduction in keratocyte activation. Sub-basal nerves tended to increase in patients switched to PF-tafluprost (p = 0.07) while were stable in the other two groups (p = 0.11 in PF and 0.40 in P group). Grade of tortuosity was stable over time in the three groups. Beading-like formations were stable over time for the P- and the PF-group, while significantly increased in the S-group (p = 0.027). Endothelial density values were statistically different at baseline (p = 0.007), they decreased both in PF-group and in S-group (p = 0.048 and 0.001, respectively), while increased in P-group (p = 0.006). Our study is the first to show that a PF-tafluprost formulation does not significantly alter the corneal structures as examined by confocal microscopy after 36 months of topical daily therapy, while improving corneal alterations due to chronic preserved therapies.
Genomic analysis of carbon dioxide sequestering bacterium for exopolysaccharides production
Authors: Kumar Manish , Kumar Madan , Pandey Ashok , Thakur Indu Shekhar
Published: March 2019

In the present study, genomic analysis of a previously reported carbon dioxide (CO2) sequestering bacterium Serratia sp. ISTD04 was performed along with exopolysaccharide (EPS) production. Genomic analysis identified key and accessory enzymes responsible for CO2 sequestration. EPS synthesis genes were discovered in the genome and identified 8 putative clusters responsible for lipopolysaccharide, stewartan, emulsan, polysaccharide B, capsular polysaccharide and fatty acid-saccharide production. The production of EPS was found to be 0.88 ± 0.08, 1.25 ± 0.13 and 1.44 ± 0.10 g L−1 on glucose, bicarbonate (NaHCO3) and NaHCO3 plus glucose respectively at pH 7.8. After optimizing process parameters, the EPS production increased more than 3 folds. The morphology of strain and elemental composition of EPS was characterized by SEM-EDX. The functional groups, monomer composition, linkage analysis and structure of purified EPS was characterized by FTIR, GC-MS and 1H and 13C NMR. Glucose, galactose, mannose and glucosamine are the monomers detected in the EPS. EPS was further applied for bioflocculation (kaolin test) and dye removal. The EPS showed 68% ± 0.9 flocculating activity and decolorized cationic dye acridine orange (80%) and crystal violet (95%). The results highlight CO2 sequestration and EPS production potential of Serratia sp. ISTD04 that can be harnessed in future.
High resolution annual average air pollution concentration maps for the Netherlands
Authors: Schmitz Oliver , Beelen Rob , Strak Maciej , Hoek Gerard , Soenario Ivan , Brunekreef Bert , Vaartjes Ilonca , Dijst Martin J. , Grobbee Diederick E. , Karssenberg Derek
Published: March 2019

Long-term exposure to air pollution is considered a major public health concern and has been related to overall mortality and various diseases such as respiratory and cardiovascular disease. Due to the spatial variability of air pollution concentrations, assessment of individual exposure to air pollution requires spatial datasets at high resolution. Combining detailed air pollution maps with personal mobility and activity patterns allows for an improved exposure assessment. We present high-resolution datasets for the Netherlands providing average ambient air pollution concentration values for the year 2009 for NO2, NOx, PM2.5, PM2.5absorbance and PM10. The raster datasets on 5×5 m grid cover the entire Netherlands and were calculated using the land use regression models originating from the European Study of Cohorts for Air Pollution Effects (ESCAPE) project. Additional datasets with nationwide and regional measurements were used to evaluate the generated concentration maps. The presented datasets allow for spatial aggregations on different scales, nationwide individual exposure assessment, and the integration of activity patterns in the exposure estimation of individuals.
Adsorption of organic micropollutants onto biochar: a review of relevant kinetics, mechanisms and equilibrium
Authors: Tong Yiran , McNamara Patrick J. , Mayer Brooke K.
Published: March 2019

As an alternative to activated carbon, biochar has been considered for removal of organic micropollutants from water and wastewaterviaadsorption.
Design of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) loaded, folate conjugated peptide linked nanoparticles, a potential new drug carrier for selective targeting of tumor cells
Authors: Kazi Julekha , Mukhopadhyay Ria , Sen Ramkrishna , Jha Tarun , Ganguly Shantanu , Debnath Mita Chatterjee
Published: March 2019

5-FU loaded NPs, decorated with folate peptide for tumor targeting.
Tuning the fluorescence performance of carbon dots with a reduction pathway
Authors: Shen Dongjun , Long Yijuan , Wang Jie , Yu Yuanyuan , Pi Jiangli , Yang Lili , Zheng Huzhi
Published: March 2019

The fluorescence emission and quantum yield can be tuned by reduction.
Synthesis of cellulose nanocrystal armored latex particles for mechanically strong nanocomposite films
Authors: Limousin Elodie , Ballard Nicholas , Asua José M.
Published: March 2019

Mechanically strong films are generated from cellulose nanocrystal armored latex particles synthesized by emulsion polymerization.
Amino-functionalized Cu-MOF for efficient purification of methane from light hydrocarbons and excellent catalytic performance
Authors: Wang Xia , Zhang Xiurong , Zhang Kai , Wang Xiaokang , Wang Yutong , Fan Weidong , Dai Fangna
Published: March 2019

Amino-functionalized Cu-MOF for the efficient purification of methane from light hydrocarbons and excellent catalytic performance.
Development of a flow-free magnetic actuation platform for an automated microfluidic ELISA
Authors: Coarsey Chad , Coleman Benjamin , Kabir Md Alamgir , Sher Mazhar , Asghar Waseem
Published: March 2019

A flow-free device is developed for automated and rapid ELISA testing at the point-of-care settings.
Engineering O-glycosylation in modified N-linked oligosaccharide (Man12GlcNAc2∼Man16GlcNAc2) Pichia pastoris strains
Authors: Li Siqiang , Sun Peng , Gong Xin , Chang Shaohong , Li Enzhong , Xu Yuanhong , Wu Jun , Liu Bo
Published: March 2019

Yeast have been engineered for the production of therapeutic glycoproteins with humanized N-linked oligosaccharides.
Morphology and crystallization behavior of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate)/polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane hybrids
Authors: Zhou Yuqi , Zhao Mingming , Guo Haiyang , Li Yuhao , Liu Qingsheng , Deng Bingyao
Published: March 2019

Polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) changed the crystallization behavior of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) and improved the mechanical properties of PHBV.
Enhancement of neural stem cell survival, proliferation and differentiation by IGF-1 delivery in graphene oxide-incorporated PLGA electrospun nanofibrous mats
Authors: Qi Zhiping , Guo Wenlai , Zheng Shuang , Fu Chuan , Ma Yue , Pan Su , Liu Qinyi , Yang Xiaoyu
Published: March 2019

The mammalian central nervous system has a limited ability for self-repair under injury conditions.
Laser patterned, high-power graphene paper resistor with dual temperature coefficient of resistance
Authors: Kumar Sandeep , Bhatt Kapil , Kumar Pramod , Sharma Sandeep , Kumar Amit , Tripathi C. C.
Published: March 2019

Printing of electronic devices on a paper substrate using 2D graphene-based ink is an opening gate to innovative applications, where devices would be biodegradable, eco-friendly and can be disposed of with negligible impact on the environment.
One-step hydrothermal synthesis and optical properties of self-quenching-resistant carbon dots towards fluorescent ink and as nanosensors for Fe3+ detection
Authors: Xu Dandan , Lei Fang , Chen Haohong , Yin Luqiao , Shi Ying , Xie Jianjun
Published: March 2019

Blue CDs with a quantum yield of 30.21% were successfully synthesized by a simple one-pot hydrothermal treatment using citric acid (carbon source) and polyvinyl pyrrolidone (nitrogen source) as the raw materials towards fluorescent ink and as nanosensors for Fe3+ detection.
A robust ALD-protected silicon-based hybrid photoelectrode for hydrogen evolution under aqueous conditions
Authors: Chandrasekaran Soundarrajan , Kaeffer Nicolas , Cagnon Laurent , Aldakov Dmitry , Fize Jennifer , Nonglaton Guillaume , Baleras François , Mailley Pascal , Artero Vincent
Published: March 2019

Hybrid systems combining molecular catalysts with inorganic materials is a promising solution towards cheap yet efficient and stable photoelectrochemical hydrogen production.
Multiwalled carbon nanotubes for combination therapy: a biodistribution and efficacy pilot study
Authors: Biagiotti Giacomo , Pisaneschi Federica , Gammon Seth T. , Machetti Fabrizio , Ligi Maria Cristina , Giambastiani Giuliano , Tuci Giulia , Powell Emily , Piwnica-Worms Helen , Pranzini Erica , Paoli Paolo , Cicchi Stefano , Piwnica-Worms David
Published: March 2019

A doxorubicin/metformin carrier for chemotherapy based on oxidized MWCNTs. Efficacy in vitro and in vivo.
Nanothermometers based on lanthanide incorporated Periodic Mesoporous Organosilica
Authors: Kaczmarek Anna M. , Van Deun Rik , Van Der Voort Pascal
Published: March 2019

This is a unique study, where the possibility of employing PMO materials as nanothermometers is investigated based on Eu, Tb and Sm, Tb systems.
Enhancing charge mobilities in selectively fluorinated oligophenyl organic semiconductors: a design approach based on experimental and computational perspectives
Authors: Maiti Buddhadev , Wang Kunlun , Bhandari Srijana , Bunge Scott D. , Twieg Robert J. , Dunietz Barry D.
Published: March 2019

Fluorination can be used to tune optoelectronic properties at the molecular level.
Two highly sensitive and selective coumarin-based fluorometric probes for the detection of ClO− and cell imaging
Authors: Jin Lei , Tan Xiaoxue , Zhao Cong , Wang Qingming
Published: March 2019

Two new coumarin-based fluorescent probes were synthesized and successfully applied for the efficient detection of ClO− as turn-on fluorescence chemosensors by the oxidative cleavage of C–O and CN, the detection limits (LOD) for the two probes are 154 nM and 32 nM, respectively.
Syntheses and magnetic properties of a bis-tridentate nitronyl nitroxide radical and its metal complexes
Authors: Miao Hao , Li Miao , Li Hong-Qing , Shen Fu-Xing , Zhang Yi-Quan , Wang Xin-Yi
Published: March 2019

A new bis-tridentate nitronyl nitroxide radical was synthesized and characterized. Field-induced slow magnetic relaxation was observed in the radical-bridged CoII complex.
Cu3N nanowire array as a high-efficiency and durable electrocatalyst for oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Guo Huanmei , Liu Li , Wu Qian , Li Limin , Tai Xishi
Published: March 2019

A self-supported Cu3N nanowire array on copper foam (Cu3N NA/CF) exhibits marvellous OER activity with the need of an overpotential of only 298 mV at a current density of 20 mA cm−2in 1.0 M KOH.
Salen supported Al–O–CP and Ga–PCO complexes
Authors: Mei Yanbo , Borger Jaap E. , Wu Dong-Jun , Grützmacher Hansjörg
Published: March 2019

The synthesis and reactivity of salen supported OCP adducts of aluminium and gallium is reported.
Effective adsorption of Congo red by a MOF-based magnetic material
Authors: Han Li-Juan , Ge Fa-Yuan , Sun Guo-Hao , Gao Xiang-Jing , Zheng He-Gen
Published: March 2019

A highly water-stable MOF-based magnetic material Fe3O4@ZTB-1 has been obtained, and it exhibited an excellent adsorption capacity for Congo red. The electrostatic interactions and hydrogen bond are responsible for binding of CR with Fe3O4@ZTB-1.
Toxicity of innovative anti-fouling nano-based solutions to marine species
Authors: Figueiredo Joana , Oliveira Tânia , Ferreira Violeta , Sushkova Alesia , Silva Sara , Carneiro Diana , Cardoso Diogo N. , Gonçalves Sandra F. , Maia Frederico , Rocha Cláudia , Tedim João , Loureiro Susana , Martins Roberto
Published: March 2019

This study presents the behavior of novel anti-fouling nanomaterials in seawater and their toxicity towards target and non-target marine species.
Two polysaccharides fromPorphyramodulate immune homeostasis by NF-κB-dependent immunocyte differentiation
Authors: Fu Linglin , Qian Yi , Wang Chong , Xie Menghua , Huang Jianjian , Wang Yanbo
Published: March 2019

Porphyrapolysaccharides possess multiple pharmacological activities, such as immunoregulatory, anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory effects, but the specific underlying mechanisms are not fully understood.
Bifunctional organocatalysts for the conversion of CO2, epoxides and aryl amines to 3-aryl-2-oxazolidinones
Authors: Xie Ya-Fei , Guo Cheng , Shi Lei , Peng Bang-Hua , Liu Ning
Published: March 2019

A route to synthesize 3-aryl-2-oxazolidinones is developed, which is achieved through a three component reaction between CO2, aryl amines, and epoxides with a binary organocatalytic system composed of organocatalysts and DBU (1,8-diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene).
A visible-light-induced cascade reaction of etherification/C–C cyclization: efficient synthesis of dibenzo[b,d]oxepin-7(6H)-ones
Authors: Fu Wanyong , Yu Aixia , Jiang Hongshuo , Zuo Minghui , Wu Hongfeng , Yang Zhongwen , An Qi , Sun Zhizhong , Chu Wenyi
Published: March 2019

A visible-light-induced palladium-catalyzed cascade reaction was developed by etherification/C–C coupling cyclization of α-bromoacetophenones with phenols.
Iodine-mediated oxidative N–N coupling of secondary amines to hydrazines
Authors: Ren Linning , Wang Manman , Fang Benyao , Yu Wenquan , Chang Junbiao
Published: March 2019

An I2-mediated oxidative N–N coupling reaction of secondary amines to access hydrazines has been established under transition-metal-free conditions.
Precise control of single unit monomer radical addition with a bulky tertiary methacrylate monomer toward sequence-defined oligo- or poly(methacrylate)s via the iterative process
Authors: Oh Dongyoung , Sawamoto Mitsuo , Ouchi Makoto
Published: March 2019

Iterative single unit monomer radical addition with a bulky tertiary methacrylate monomer, adamantyl and isopropyl pendant methacrylate (IPAMA), under ATRP conditions was studied in detail toward the syntheses of sequence-defined oligo- or poly(methacrylate)s in higher yields.
Correlation between surface scaling behavior and surface plasmon resonance properties of semitransparent nanostructured Cu thin films deposited via PLD
Authors: Kesarwani Rahul , Dey Partha P. , Khare Alika
Published: March 2019

The surface scaling behavior of nanostructured Cu thin films, grown on glass by the PLD technique, as a function of deposition time has been studied using height–height correlation function analysis from AFM images.
Correction: Shedding light on the structural properties of lipid bilayers using molecular dynamics simulation: a review study
Authors: Moradi Sajad , Nowroozi Amin , Shahlaei Mohsen
Published: March 2019

Correction for ‘Shedding light on the structural properties of lipid bilayers using molecular dynamics simulation: a review study’ by Sajad Moradi et al., RSC Adv., 2019, 9, 4644–4658.
Tracking the pyrolysis process of a 3-MeOsalophen-ligand based Co2 complex for promoted oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Pan Bingxin , Peng Xu , Wang Yifan , An Qi , Zhang Xu , Zhang Yuexing , Teets Thomas S. , Zeng Ming-Hua
Published: March 2019

A 3-MeOsalophen-ligand based Co2 complex underwent controlled pyrolysis tracked by TG-MS, and can be used as an efficient OER electrocatalyst with a Co/CoOx@NC nanostructure.
Influence of proliferation on the motions of epithelial monolayers invading adherent strips
Authors: Gauquelin Estelle , Tlili Sham , Gay Cyprien , Peyret Grégoire , Mège René-Marc , Fardin Marc A. , Ladoux Benoît
Published: March 2019

How proliferation impacts the collective motion of epithelial cell sheets.
A low-cost “water-in-salt” electrolyte for a 2.3 V high-rate carbon-based supercapacitor
Authors: Bu Xudong , Su Lijun , Dou Qingyun , Lei Shulai , Yan Xingbin
Published: March 2019

With the advantages including wide ESW, superior conductivity, low viscosity and low cost, NaClO4-based WIS electrolyte can be considered as a promising candidate for high-voltage and high-rate aqueous carbon based SCs with good safety.
Extremely low self-discharge solid-state supercapacitors via the confinement effect of ion transfer
Authors: Wang Zixing , Chu Xiang , Xu Zhong , Su Hai , Yan Cheng , Liu Fangyan , Gu Bingni , Huang Haichao , Xiong Da , Zhang Hepeng , Deng Weili , Zhang Haitao , Yang Weiqing
Published: March 2019

The bentonite clay@ionic liquid based solid-state electrolyte can effectively suppress the self-discharge rate via the confinement effect of ion transfer.
Pure E/Z isomers of N-methylpyrrole-benzohydrazide-based BF2 complexes: remarkable aggregation-, crystallization-induced emission switching properties and application in sensing intracellular pH microenvironment
Authors: Yu Yizhe , Yu Changjiang , Wu Qinghua , Wang Hua , Jiao Lijuan , Wong Wai-Yeung , Hao Erhong
Published: March 2019

Two pairs of pure E/Z isomers of novel BF2 acylhydrozone dyes have been synthesized, which exhibited AIE, viscosity, crystallization, and acid–base-induced emission.
Simplified and accurate BER analysis of magnitude modulated M‐PSK signals
Authors: Bento Pedro , Pereira Andreia , Gomes Marco , Dinis Rui , Silva Vitor
Published: March 2019

In this work, the authors consider phase shift keying (PSK)‐type signals with very compacted spectrum and low envelope fluctuations obtained through the use of magnitude modulation (MM) techniques and stringent roll‐off pulse shaping filtering. The analytical bit error rate (BER) of PSK‐type signals combined with MM is assessed, for both flat fading and time‐dispersive channel scenarios. The authors use a Gaussian model to approximate the statistical distribution of the distortion error introduced by MM to enable a closed‐form evaluation of the BER. The proposed expression depends only on the constellation order and the Kullback–Leibler divergence of the MM factors' probability density function from the Gaussian one, and it was found to be very accurate.
Multi‐radio channel rendezvous in cognitive radio networks
Authors: Chen Lin , Bian Kaigui , Ge Xiaohu , Chen Wei , Ai Qingsong , Wang Kehao
Published: March 2019

In decentralised cognitive radio (CR) networks, establishing communication sessions between a communicating pair requires them to meet each other on a common channel via a ‘rendezvous’ process. Devising distributed CR rendezvous protocol is a challenging task as cognitive nodes are not necessarily synchronised, and may have different perceptions of channel availability. In this study, the authors present M‐Rendezvous, an order‐optimal rendezvous protocol exploiting the performance gain brought by having multiple radios at cognitive nodes. As a distinguished feature, M‐Rendezvous is a unified rendezvous protocol that can operate in both homogenous case where both of the rendezvous nodes are equipped with only one radio or multiple radios, and heterogeneous case where one of the rendezvous nodes has single radio and the other has multiple radios. In both cases, by rigorous analysis, the authors demonstrate that M‐Rendezvous can guarantee rendezvous over every channel with bounded and order‐minimal delay even when rendezvous nodes have asynchronous clocks and asymmetrical channel perceptions.
Higher order lumped element absorptive low‐pass and bandpass filter structures
Authors: Lee Tae‐Hak , Lee Boyoung , Kim Young‐Sik , Wu Ke , Lee Juseop
Published: March 2019

Here, the authors present a class of lumped‐element low‐pass and bandpass absorptive filter circuits. To begin with, the authors discuss a new type of absorptive low‐pass filter (LPF) structure that has an excellent impedance matching performance in both passband and stopband. This work provides low‐pass prototype values for the proposed absorptive LPFs in terms of those for the conventional reflective filters, namely g‐parameters, so that the new type of absorptive LPF can be designed in a straightforward manner. In addition, it is shown that traditional low‐pass‐to‐bandpass frequency transformations can be applied to the absorptive low‐pass prototype cases in the design of absorptive bandpass filters (BPFs). Second‐ and third‐order LPF and BPFs are designed and measured to verify the new type of absorptive filter and its design method.
Energy aware routing for efficient green communication in opportunistic networks
Authors: Dhurandher Sanjay K. , Woungang Isaac , Singh Jagdeep , Borah Satya J.
Published: March 2019

Opportunistic networks are characterised by intermittent connectivity, unstable topology, and no assurance of a fixed end‐to‐end path to transfer the messages because of nodes mobility. Due to this, the store‐carry and forward mechanism is used for routing the data in such networks. Considering that the energy of relaying nodes during the routing operation get depleted, there is a clear demand for power‐aware routing schemes for opportunistic networks. This article proposes an energy‐efficient altruism‐based trust‐dependent message forwarding routing protocol for opportunistic networks (called E‐ATDTN), where social matrices are exploited to determine the trustworthiness of a node in participating in the message forwarding procedure. Extensive simulations are conducted to assess the performance of the newly proposed E‐ATDTN protocol against that of the power‐aware PRoPHET, energy efficient PRoWait, and power‐aware EDR protocols showing that E‐ATDTN outperforms E‐PRoPHET, E‐ProWait, and E‐EDR in terms of average residual energy, overhead ratio, dropped messages, and number of dead nodes under varying time‐to‐live, and message generation interval.
Zero‐voltage‐switching full‐bridge converter with low filter requirement and voltage oscillation amplitude
Authors: Zhao Lei , Li Haoyu , Li Fei
Published: March 2019

This article presents a new full‐bridge converter with three‐winding coupled inductor. The proposed converter can solve the drawbacks of traditional full‐bridge converter, such as narrow zero‐voltage‐switching range, serious voltage oscillation, and large primary circulating current. By introducing a coupled inductor into the full‐bridge converter, the currents of leading‐leg and lagging‐leg are optimised and a wide zero‐voltage‐switching range can be achieved. In the proposed converter, the secondary voltage oscillation occurs only when the rectified voltage is low. Thus, the amplitude of voltage oscillation and the voltage stress of rectified diodes are well suppressed. Furthermore, the primary power can be continually transferred to the output side during the whole switching period, resulting in reduced circulating current and low filter requirement. Finally, the theoretical analysis is verified on a laboratory prototype. Experimental results show the effectiveness of the proposed converter.
Participatory evaluation of groundnut planting methods for pre-harvest aflatoxin management in Eastern Province of Zambia
Authors: Mukanga Mweshi , Matumba Limbikani , Makwenda Beatrice , Alfred Sharon , Sakala Whytson , Kanenga Kennedy , Chancellor Tim , Mugabe Jonas , Bennett Ben
Published: March 2019

Aflatoxin contamination remains a major challenge for smallholder groundnut producers in Southern Africa. This is compounded by the stringent aflatoxin regulatory regimes in the lucrative international markets that continue to deny groundnuts produced in this region the access to markets. Participatory on-farm experiments were carried in 2016 and 2017 in Chinkhombe (Katete) and Kalichero (Chipata), and on-station trials at Mount Makulu Central Research Station (Chilanga) to evaluate the efficacy of groundnut planting methods: planting in double rows, single rows, tied ridges and on flatbeds, for pre-harvest aflatoxin management. Planting on flatbeds (no ridges), a popular planting method in most parts of Zambia was designated as the baseline. Significantly low (p < 0.05) levels of aflatoxin, (10.3 ± 3.1 μg/kg) were recorded in the groundnuts planted on tied ridges, and less than 22% of these had aflatoxin levels above the Zambia regulatory limit of 10 μg/kg, compared to more than 40% in other methods. Except for double rows, significantly higher pod yield, 1193 kg/ha, was recorded in groundnuts planted on tied ridges compared to other pre-harvest management options. A reduction of 37 and 81% in aflatoxin contamination was observed in groundnuts planted on single rows and tied ridges, respectively compared to an increase of 39.2% in double rows above 54.3 ± 10.9 μg/kg recorded in flatbeds. In addition, tied ridging was observed to improve plant vigour, lower disease incidence, insect pest and weed infestation. It is clear that the evaluation of these practices on-farm enabled more farmers to be more aware of the effects of these methods and get motivated to adopt them. It is thus imperative that participatory on-farm evaluations of existing aflatoxin management options are carried out as they are an essential step in influencing adoption and uptake of pre-harvest management control methods among smallholder farmers.
Joint Carrier Synchronization Algorithm by Open-Loop Acquisition and Closed-Loop Tracking in High-Dynamic Environments
Authors: Han Chunlei , Bai Yingyu , Si Jiangbo
Published: March 2019

Considering the difficulty of carrier synchronization and the low tracking accuracy in high-dynamic environments, the joint open-loop acquisition and closed-loop tracking carrier synchronization algorithm is presented. Firstly, the algorithm derives the coarse estimation of Doppler frequency and Doppler rate via open-loop acquisition, then the residual Doppler frequency and Doppler rate are confined into a small range. Secondly, the residual Doppler rate is tracked by using a third-order phase-locked loop(PLL). The present algorithm has the advantages of fast acquisition and high tracking accuracy. Finally, the numerical simulation is conducted to verify the present synchronization algorithm. The simulation results indicate that at the signal to noise ratio(SNR) of and normalized Doppler frequency and Doppler rate ranging from to, the bit-error-rate(BER) performance degradation is as low as comparing with theoretical value.
Peroral endoscopic myotomy versus pneumatic dilation – result from a retrospective study with 1-year follow-up
Authors: Zheng Zhongqing , Zhao Chunshan , Su Shuai , Fan Xiaofei , Zhao Wei , Wang Bin , Jin Hong , Zhang Lili , Wang Tao , Wang Bangmao
Published: March 2019

Background and aims On the basis of lesser rates of major adverse events and a short-term efficacy as Heller’s myotomy, there is a growing enthusiasm in favor of peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM), whereas study comparing POEM and pneumatic dilatation (PD) is quite rare. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of POEM and PD in Chinese achalasia patients in a retrospectively designed study.

Methods Patients with achalasia, who underwent either PD (n = 26) or POEM (n = 40) were retrospectively recruited from September 2010 through March 2016 at a single tertiary center. During the 1-year follow-up, clinical outcome and functional data of lower esophageal sphincter (LES) were recruited. Clinical symptoms were assessed by use of the Eckardt score. The primary outcome was therapeutic success (Eckardt score ≤ 3). Functional data of LES (4-second integrated relaxation pressure [4s-IRP], LES relax rate, and LESP) at baseline and 1 month after treatment were also evaluated. Data was analyzed by SPSS 13.0 version using a significance level of p < 0.05.

Results The success rates were 24/26 (92.31 %), 25/26 (96.15 %), and 24/26 (92.31 %), respectively, with POEM, as compared with 35/40 (87.50 %), 29/40 (72.50 %), and 23/40 (57.50 %), respectively, with PD, 1 month, 3 months, and 1 year after treatment. Statistically significant difference was observed between the 2 therapies (at 3 months, Fisher’s exact test, p = 0.01; at 1 year, Fisher’s exact test, p < 0.0001). Compared with PD, the Eckardt score was lower with POEM 1 month, 3 months, and 1 year after treatment. More patients in POEM group reported gastroesophageal reflux symptoms (after 3 months 7/26 (26.92 %) vs. 2/40 (5.00 %), Fisher’s exact test, p = 0.01; after 1 year 6/26 (19.23 %) vs. 1/35 (2.86 %), Fisher’s exact test, p = 0.02). The postoperative 4s-IRP and LESP were both lower with POEM than with PD, respectively. Type I achalasia had a better response with POEM than with PD.

Conclusion In this retrospective analysis with 1-year follow-up, POEM presents with a higher success rate and more reflux symptoms compared with PD. Change on LES function after treatment may explain the outcome in part. Type I achalasia may respond better to therapies compared with type II.
Severe ileocecal inflammatory syndrome in adult patients with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Henker Robert , Oltmanns Annett , Wald Alexandra , Tuennemann Jan , Opitz Sabine , Hoffmeister Albrecht , Wirtz Hubert , Mössner Joachim , Jansen-Winkeln Boris , Karlas Thomas
Published: March 2019

The relevance of gastrointestinal manifestations of cystic fibrosis (CF) is increasing due to an improved life expectancy. We report on 2 adult patients with prior lung transplantation who presented with a severe inflammatory disorder of the ileocecal region. One patient underwent ileocecal resection; the second patient died after emergency surgery for intestinal perforation. Both cases did not show typical signs of CF-related distal intestinal obstruction syndrome or extensive fibrosing colonopathy. However, the clinical and histopathological findings revealed CF-induced inflammatory alterations of the intestinal mucosa. Thus, these cases illustrate a further CF-related bowel disorder, which can be especially relevant in long-term CF survivors.
Dermatitis solaris unter kombinierter Creme-PUVA/UVB-Phototherapie
Authors: Elsner P. , Meyer J.
Published: March 2019

Bei einem Patienten mit einem chronischen Ekzem kam es unter der Kombination einer Creme-PUVA-Therapie mit einer zusätzlichen lokalen UVB-Behandlung mittels Excimer 308-Therapiegerät zum Auftreten einer schweren, schmerzhaften und langanhaltenden Dermatitis solaris II. Grades. Nach Facharztstandard ist die Kombination einer Creme-PUVA-Therapie mit am selben Tag durchgeführter UVA-Dosissteigerung sowie in kurzer Abfolge zusätzlicher Behandlung mittels monochromatischem UVB (Excimer 308) ohne vorherige Feldbehandlung zur Bestimmung der individuellen Verträglichkeit als Behandlungsfehler zu bewerten.

Gerade bei neuen Therapieverfahren oder ihrer Kombination mit bewährten Verfahren ist von einem erhöhten Nebenwirkungspotenzial auszugehen. Dieses sollte durch geeignete Vorsichtsmaßnahmen minimiert und vorab im Rahmen der ärztlichen Aufklärung gegenüber dem Patienten kommuniziert werden, um eine rechtswirksame Einwilligung zu der Behandlung sicherzustellen.