bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mislocalisation of BEST1 in iPSC-derived retinal pigment epithelial cells from a family with autosomal dominant vitreoretinochoroidopathy (ADVIRC)
Authors: Carter David A. , Smart Matthew J. K. , Letton William V. G. , Ramsden Conor M. , Nommiste Britta , Chen Li Li , Fynes Kate , Muthiah Manickam N. , Goh Pollyanna , Lane Amelia , Powner Michael B. , Webster Andrew R. , da Cruz Lyndon , Moore Anthony T. , Coffey Peter J. , Carr Amanda-Jayne F.
Published: September 2016

Autosomal dominant vitreoretinochoroidopathy (ADVIRC) is a rare, early-onset retinal dystrophy characterised by distinct bands of circumferential pigmentary degeneration in the peripheral retina and developmental eye defects. ADVIRC is caused by mutations in the Bestrophin1 (BEST1) gene, which encodes a transmembrane protein thought to function as an ion channel in the basolateral membrane of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. Previous studies suggest that the distinct ADVIRC phenotype results from alternative splicing of BEST1 pre-mRNA. Here, we have used induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology to investigate the effects of an ADVIRC associated BEST1 mutation (c.704T > C, p.V235A) in patient-derived iPSC-RPE. We found no evidence of alternate splicing of the BEST1 transcript in ADVIRC iPSC-RPE, however in patient-derived iPSC-RPE, BEST1 was expressed at the basolateral membrane and the apical membrane. During human eye development we show that BEST1 is expressed more abundantly in peripheral RPE compared to central RPE and is also expressed in cells of the developing retina. These results suggest that higher levels of mislocalised BEST1 expression in the periphery, from an early developmental stage, could provide a mechanism that leads to the distinct clinical phenotype observed in ADVIRC patients.
Complete mitochondrial genomes of Trisidos kiyoni and Potiarca pilula: Varied mitochondrial genome size and highly rearranged gene order in Arcidae
Authors: Sun Shao’e , Li Qi , Kong Lingfeng , Yu Hong
Published: September 2016

We present the complete mitochondrial genomes (mitogenomes) of Trisidos kiyoni and Potiarca pilula, both important species from the family Arcidae (Arcoida: Arcacea). Typical bivalve mtDNA features were described, such as the relatively conserved gene number (36 and 37), a high A + T content (62.73% and 61.16%), the preference for A + T-rich codons and the evidence of non-optimal codon usage. The mitogenomes of Arcidae species are exceptional for their extraordinarily large and variable sizes and substantial gene rearrangements. The mitogenome of T. kiyoni (19,614 bp) and P. pilula (28,470 bp) are the two smallest Arcidae mitogenomes. The compact mitogenomes are weakly associated with gene number and primarily reflect shrinkage of the non-coding regions. The varied size in Arcidae mitogenomes reflect a dynamic history of expansion. A significant positive correlation is observed between mitogenome size and the combined length of cox1-3, the lengths of Cytb and the combined length of rRNAs (rrnS and rrnL) (P < 0.001). Both protein coding genes (PCGs) and tRNA rearrangements is observed in P. pilula and T. kiyoni mitogenomes. This analysis imply that the complicated gene rearrangement in mitochondrial genome could be considered as one of key characters in inferring higher-level phylogenetic relationship of Arcidae.
Contrasting diets reveal metabolic plasticity in the tree-killing beetle, Anoplophora glabripennis (Cerambycidae: Lamiinae)
Authors: Mason Charles J. , Scully Erin D. , Geib Scott M. , Hoover Kelli
Published: September 2016

Wood-feeding insects encounter challenging diets containing low protein quantities, recalcitrant carbohydrate sources and plant defensive compounds. The Asian longhorned beetle (Anoplophora glabripennis) is a wood-feeding insect that attacks and kills a diversity of hardwood tree species. We compared gene expression of midguts collected from larvae feeding in a preferred tree, sugar maple, to those consuming a nutrient-rich artificial diet, to identify genes putatively involved in host plant utilization. Anoplophora glabripennis larvae exhibited differential expression of ~3600 genes in response to different diets. Genes with predicted capacity for plant and microbial carbohydrate usage, detoxification, nutrient recycling and immune-related genes relevant for facilitating interactions with microbial symbionts were upregulated in wood-feeding larvae compared to larvae feeding in artificial diet. Upregulation of genes involved in protein degradation and synthesis was also observed, suggesting that proteins incur more rapid turnover in insects consuming wood. Additionally, wood-feeding individuals exhibited elevated expression of several mitochondrial cytochrome C oxidase genes, suggesting increased aerobic respiration compared to diet-fed larvae. These results indicate that A. glabripennis modulates digestive and basal gene expression when larvae are feeding in a nutrient-poor, yet suitable host plant compared to a tractable and nutrient-rich diet that is free of plant defensive compounds.
Cyclooxygenase-2 induced β1-integrin expression in NSCLC and promoted cell invasion via the EP1/MAPK/E2F-1/FoxC2 signal pathway
Authors: Pan Jinshun , Yang Qinyi , Shao Jiaofang , Zhang Li , Ma Juan , Wang Yipin , Jiang Bing-Hua , Leng Jing , Bai Xiaoming
Published: September 2016

Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) has been implicated in cell invasion in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, the mechanism is unclear. The present study investigated the effect of COX-2 on β1-integrin expression and cell invasion in NSCLC. COX-2 and β1-integrin were co-expressed in NSCLC tissues. COX-2 overexpression or Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) treatment increased β1-integrin expression in NSCLC cell lines. β1-integrin silencing suppressed COX-2-mediated tumour growth and cancer cell invasion in vivo and in vitro. Prostaglandin E Receptor EP1 transfection or treatment with EP1 agonist mimicked the effect of PGE2 treatment. EP1 siRNA blocked PGE2-mediated β1-integrin expression. EP1 agonist treatment promoted Erk1/2, p38 phosphorylation and E2F-1 expression. MEK1/2 and p38 inhibitors suppressed EP1-mediated β1-integrin expression. E2F-1 silencing suppressed EP1-mediated FoxC2 and β1-integrin upregulation. ChIP and Luciferase Reporter assays identified that EP1 agonist treatment induced E2F-1 binding to FoxC2 promotor directly and improved FoxC2 transcription. FoxC2 siRNA suppressed β1-integrin expression and EP1-mediated cell invasion. Immunohistochemistry showed E2F-1, FoxC2, and EP1R were all highly expressed in the NSCLC cases. This study suggested that COX-2 upregulates β1-integrin expression and cell invasion in NSCLC by activating the MAPK/E2F-1 signalling pathway. Targeting the COX-2/EP1/PKC/MAPK/E2F-1/FoxC2/β1-integrin pathway might represent a new therapeutic strategy for the prevention and treatment of this cancer.
A new frontier in CO2 flux measurements using a highly portable DIAL laser system
Authors: Queiβer Manuel , Granieri Domenico , Burton Mike
Published: September 2016

Volcanic CO2 emissions play a key role in the geological carbon cycle and monitoring of volcanic CO2 fluxes helps to forecast eruptions. The quantification of CO2 fluxes is challenging due to rapid dilution of magmatic CO2 in CO2-rich ambient air and the diffuse nature of many emissions, leading to large uncertainties in the global magmatic CO2 flux inventory. Here, we report measurements using a new DIAL laser remote sensing system for volcanic CO2 (CO2DIAL). Two sites in the volcanic zone of Campi Flegrei (Italy) were scanned, yielding CO2 path-amount profiles used to compute fluxes. Our results reveal a relatively high CO2 flux from Campi Flegrei, consistent with an increasing trend. Unlike previous methods, the CO2DIAL is able to measure integrated CO2 path-amounts at distances up to 2000 m using virtually any solid surface as a reflector, whilst also being highly portable. This opens a new frontier in quantification of geological and anthropogenic CO2 fluxes.
Hyaluronic acid-modified manganese-chelated dendrimer-entrapped gold nanoparticles for the targeted CT/MR dual-mode imaging of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wang Ruizhi , Luo Yu , Yang Shuohui , Lin Jiang , Gao Dongmei , Zhao Yan , Liu Jinguo , Shi Xiangyang , Wang Xiaolin
Published: September 2016

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common malignant tumor of the liver. The early and effective diagnosis has always been desired. Herein, we present the preparation and characterization of hyaluronic acid (HA)-modified, multifunctional nanoparticles (NPs) targeting CD44 receptor-expressing cancer cells for computed tomography (CT)/magnetic resonance (MR) dual-mode imaging. We first modified amine-terminated generation 5 poly(amidoamine) dendrimers (G5.NH2) with an Mn chelator, 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetraacetic acid (DOTA), fluorescein isothiocyanate (FI), and HA. Then, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were entrapped within the above raw product, denoted as G5.NH2-FI-DOTA-HA. The designed multifunctional NPs were formed after further Mn chelation and purification and were denoted as {(Au0)100G5.NH2-FI-DOTA(Mn)-HA}. These NPs were characterized via several different techniques. We found that the {(Au0)100G5.NH2-FI-DOTA(Mn)-HA} NPs exhibited good water dispersibility, stability under different conditions, and cytocompatibility within a given concentration range. Because both AuNPs and Mn were present in the product, {(Au0)100G5.NH2-FI-DOTA(Mn)-HA} displayed a high X-ray attenuation intensity and favorable r1 relaxivity, which are advantageous properties for targeted CT/MR dual-mode imaging. This approach was used to image HCC cells in vitro and orthotopically transplanted HCC tumors in a unique in vivo model through the CD44 receptor-mediated endocytosis pathway. This work introduces a novel strategy for preparing multifunctional NPs via dendrimer nanotechnology.
Chronic recurrent dehydration associated with periodic water intake exacerbates hypertension and promotes renal damage in male spontaneously hypertensive rats
Authors: Hilliard Lucinda M. , Colafella Katrina M. Mirabito , Bulmer Louise L. , Puelles Victor G. , Singh Reetu R. , Ow Connie P. C. , Gaspari Tracey , Drummond Grant R. , Evans Roger G. , Vinh Antony , Denton Kate M.
Published: September 2016

Epidemiological evidence links recurrent dehydration associated with periodic water intake with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, minimal attention has been paid to the long-term impact of periodic water intake on the progression of CKD and underlying mechanisms involved. Therefore we investigated the chronic effects of recurrent dehydration associated with periodic water restriction on arterial pressure and kidney function and morphology in male spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Arterial pressure increased and glomerular filtration rate decreased in water-restricted SHR. This was observed in association with cyclic changes in urine osmolarity, indicative of recurrent dehydration. Additionally, water-restricted SHR demonstrated greater renal fibrosis and an imbalance in favour of pro-inflammatory cytokine-producing renal T cells compared to their control counterparts. Furthermore, urinary NGAL levels were greater in water-restricted than control SHR. Taken together, our results provide significant evidence that recurrent dehydration associated with chronic periodic drinking hastens the progression of CKD and hypertension, and suggest a potential role for repetitive bouts of acute renal injury driving renal inflammatory processes in this setting. Further studies are required to elucidate the specific pathways that drive the progression of recurrent dehydration-induced kidney disease.
Identification of hepta-histidine as a candidate drug for Huntington’s disease by in silico-in vitro- in vivo-integrated screens of chemical libraries
Authors: Imamura Tomomi , Fujita Kyota , Tagawa Kazuhiko , Ikura Teikichi , Chen Xigui , Homma Hidenori , Tamura Takuya , Mao Ying , Taniguchi Juliana Bosso , Motoki Kazumi , Nakabayashi Makoto , Ito Nobutoshi , Yamada Kazunori , Tomii Kentaro , Okano Hideyuki , Kaye Julia , Finkbeiner Steven , Okazawa Hitoshi
Published: September 2016

We identified drug seeds for treating Huntington’s disease (HD) by combining in vitro single molecule fluorescence spectroscopy, in silico molecular docking simulations and in vivo fly and mouse HD models to screen for inhibitors of abnormal interactions between mutant Htt and physiological Ku70, an essential DNA damage repair protein in neurons whose function is known to be impaired by mutant Htt. From 19,468 and 3,010,321 chemicals in actual and virtual libraries, fifty-six chemicals were selected from combined in vitro-in silico screens; six of these were further confirmed to have an in vivo effect on lifespan in a fly HD model and two chemicals exerted an in vivo effect on the lifespan, body weight and motor function in a mouse HD model. Two oligopeptides, hepta-histidine (7H) and Angiotensin III, rescued the morphological abnormalities of primary neurons differentiated from iPS cells of human HD patients. For these selected drug seeds, we proposed a possible common structure. Unexpectedly, the selected chemicals enhanced rather than inhibited Htt aggregation, as indicated by dynamic light scattering analysis. Taken together, these integrated screens revealed a new pathway for the molecular targeted therapy of HD.
Bound exciton and free exciton states in GaSe thin slab
Authors: Wei Chengrong , Chen Xi , Li Dian , Su Huimin , He Hongtao , Dai Jun-Feng
Published: September 2016

The photoluminescence (PL) and absorption experiments have been performed in GaSe slab with incident light polarized perpendicular to c-axis of sample at 10 K. An obvious energy difference of about 34 meV between exciton absorption peak and PL peak (the highest energy peak) is observed. By studying the temperature dependence of PL and absorption spectra, we attribute it to energy difference between free exciton and bound exciton states, where main exciton absorption peak comes from free exciton absorption and PL peak is attributed to recombination of bound exciton at 10 K. This strong bound exciton effect is stable up to 50 K. Moreover, the temperature dependence of integrated PL intensity and PL lifetime reveals that a non-radiative process, with activation energy extracted as 0.5 meV, dominates PL emission.
UbC-StarTrack, a clonal method to target the entire progeny of individual progenitors
Authors: Figueres-Oñate María , García-Marqués Jorge , López-Mascaraque Laura
Published: September 2016

Clonal cell analysis defines the potential of single cells and the diversity they can produce. To achieve this, we have developed a novel adaptation of the genetic tracing strategy, UbC-StarTrack, which attributes a specific and unique color-code to single neural precursors, allowing all their progeny to be tracked. We used integrable fluorescent reporters driven by a ubiquitous promoter in PiggyBac-based vectors to achieve inheritable and stable clonal cell labeling. In addition, coupling this to an inducible Cre-LoxP system avoids the expression of non-integrated reporters. To assess the utility of this system, we first analyzed images of combinatorial expression of fluorescent reporters in transfected cells and their progeny. We also validated the efficiency of the UbC-StarTrack to trace cell lineages through in vivo, in vitro and ex vivo strategies. Finally, progenitors located in the lateral ventricles were targeted at embryonic or postnatal stages to determine the diversity of neurons and glia they produce, and their clonal relationships. In this way we demonstrate that UbC-StarTrack can be used to identify all the progeny of a single cell and that it can be employed in a wide range of contexts.
Graphene as a Reversible and Spectrally Selective Fluorescence Quencher
Authors: Salihoglu Omer , Kakenov Nurbek , Balci Osman , Balci Sinan , Kocabas Coskun
Published: September 2016

We report reversible and spectrally selective fluorescence quenching of quantum dots (QDs) placed in close proximity to graphene. Controlling interband electronic transitions of graphene via electrostatic gating greatly modifies the fluorescence lifetime and intensity of nearby QDs via blocking of the nonradiative energy transfer between QDs and graphene. Using ionic liquid (IL) based electrolyte gating, we are able to control Fermi energy of graphene in the order of 1 eV, which yields electrically controllable fluorescence quenching of QDs in the visible spectrum. Indeed, our technique enables us to perform voltage controllable spectral selectivity among quantum dots at different emission wavelengths. We anticipate that our technique will provide tunable light-matter interaction and energy transfer that could yield hybrid QDs-graphene based optoelectronic devices with novel functionalities and additionally, may be useful as a spectroscopic ruler, for example, in bioimaging and biomolecular sensing. We propose that graphene can be used as an electrically tunable and wavelength selective fluorescence quencher.
Increased aqueous flare is associated with thickening of inner retinal layers in eyes with retinitis pigmentosa
Authors: Nagasaka Yosuke , Ito Yasuki , Ueno Shinji , Terasaki Hiroko
Published: September 2016

Retinitis pigmentosa(RP) is a hereditary retinal disease that causes photoreceptor, outer retinal, degeneration. Although the pathogenesis is still unclear, there have been numerous reports regarding inner retinal changes in RP eyes. The aim of this study is to retrospectively evaluate the changes in the thicknesses of different retinal layers of RP eyes and its association with aqueous flare, which is used for measuring the intensity of intraocular inflammation. A total of 125 eyes of 64 patients with RP and 13 normal eyes were studied. The thicknesses of total neural retina,nerve fiber layer(NFL),ganglion cell layer(GCL),inner plexiform layer(IPL),inner nuclear layer(INL),outer layers and foveal thickness were measured in the optical coherence tomographic images. Aqueous flare was measured with a laser flare-cell meter. The associations between those parameters, visual acuity and visual field were determined in RP eyes using multivariate analysis. The results of this study showed the significant thickening of NFL, GCL and INL, the significant thinning of outer layers and the association of them with increased aqueous flare, whereas NFL and INL thickening associated with outer retinal thinning. These results can suggest the involvement of intraocular inflammation in the pathogenesis of inner retinal thickening as a secondary change following outer retinal degeneration.
Fluorescence-based assay as a new screening tool for toxic chemicals
Authors: Moczko Ewa , Mirkes Evgeny M. , Cáceres César , Gorban Alexander N. , Piletsky Sergey
Published: September 2016

Our study involves development of fluorescent cell-based diagnostic assay as a new approach in high-throughput screening method. This highly sensitive optical assay operates similarly to e-noses and e-tongues which combine semi-specific sensors and multivariate data analysis for monitoring biochemical processes. The optical assay consists of a mixture of environmental-sensitive fluorescent dyes and human skin cells that generate fluorescence spectra patterns distinctive for particular physico-chemical and physiological conditions. Using chemometric techniques the optical signal is processed providing qualitative information about analytical characteristics of the samples. This integrated approach has been successfully applied (with sensitivity of 93% and specificity of 97%) in assessing whether particular chemical agents are irritating or not for human skin. It has several advantages compared with traditional biochemical or biological assays and can impact the new way of high-throughput screening and understanding cell activity. It also can provide reliable and reproducible method for assessing a risk of exposing people to different harmful substances, identification active compounds in toxicity screening and safety assessment of drugs, cosmetic or their specific ingredients.
Associations between metabolic syndrome and clinical benign prostatic hyperplasia in a northern urban Han Chinese population: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Zhao Si-Cong , Xia Ming , Tang Jian-Chun , Yan Yong
Published: September 2016

Biologic rationales exist for the associations between metabolic syndrome (MetS) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). However, epidemiologic studies have yield inconsistent results. The aim of the present study was to prospectively evaluate the associations of MetS with the risk of BPH. The presence of MetS, the number of MetS components and the individual MetS components were evaluated. After adjusting for potential confounders, MetS was associated with increased risk of BPH (HR: 1.29; 95% CI, 1.08–1.50; p < 0.001). Compared with subjects without any MetS components, the HRs were 0.88 (95% CI, 0.67–1.09; p = 0.86), 1.18 (95% CI, 0.89–1.47; p = 0.29) and 1.37 (95% CI, 1.08–1.66; p = 0.014) for subjects with 1, 2, or ≥3 MetS components and there was a biologic gradient between the number of MetS components and the risk of BPH (p-trend < 0.001). Central obesity and low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol were the two main divers of the associations between these two conditions, with HRs of 1.93 (95% CI, 1.14–2.72; p = 0.001) for central obesity and 1.56 (95% CI, 1.08–2.04; p = 0.012) for low HDL-C. Our findings support the notion that MetS may be an important target for BPH prevention and intervention.
Identification of gefitinib off-targets using a structure-based systems biology approach; their validation with reverse docking and retrospective data mining
Authors: Verma Nidhi , Rai Amit Kumar , Kaushik Vibha , Brünnert Daniela , Chahar Kirti Raj , Pandey Janmejay , Goyal Pankaj
Published: September 2016

Gefitinib, an EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor, is used as FDA approved drug in breast cancer and non-small cell lung cancer treatment. However, this drug has certain side effects and complications for which the underlying molecular mechanisms are not well understood. By systems biology based in silico analysis, we identified off-targets of gefitinib that might explain side effects of this drugs. The crystal structure of EGFR-gefitinib complex was used for binding pocket similarity searches on a druggable proteome database (Sc-PDB) by using IsoMIF Finder. The top 128 hits of putative off-targets were validated by reverse docking approach. The results showed that identified off-targets have efficient binding with gefitinib. The identified human specific off-targets were confirmed and further analyzed for their links with biological process and clinical disease pathways using retrospective studies and literature mining, respectively. Noticeably, many of the identified off-targets in this study were reported in previous high-throughput screenings. Interestingly, the present study reveals that gefitinib may have positive effects in reducing brain and bone metastasis, and may be useful in defining novel gefitinib based treatment regime. We propose that a system wide approach could be useful during new drug development and to minimize side effect of the prospective drug.
Highly reliable wind-rolling triboelectric nanogenerator operating in a wide wind speed range
Authors: Yong Hyungseok , Chung Jihoon , Choi Dukhyun , Jung Daewoong , Cho Minhaeng , Lee Sangmin
Published: September 2016

Triboelectric nanogenerators are aspiring energy harvesting methods that generate electricity from the triboelectric effect and electrostatic induction. This study demonstrates the harvesting of wind energy by a wind-rolling triboelectric nanogenerator (WR-TENG). The WR-TENG generates electricity from wind as a lightweight dielectric sphere rotates along the vortex whistle substrate. Increasing the kinetic energy of a dielectric converted from the wind energy is a key factor in fabricating an efficient WR-TENG. Computation fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis is introduced to estimate the precise movements of wind flow and to create a vortex flow by adjusting the parameters of the vortex whistle shape to optimize the design parameters to increase the kinetic energy conversion rate. WR-TENG can be utilized as both a self-powered wind velocity sensor and a wind energy harvester. A single unit of WR-TENG produces open-circuit voltage of 11.2 V and closed-circuit current of 1.86 μA. Additionally, findings reveal that the electrical power is enhanced through multiple electrode patterns in a single device and by increasing the number of dielectric spheres inside WR-TENG. The wind-rolling TENG is a novel approach for a sustainable wind-driven TENG that is sensitive and reliable to wind flows to harvest wasted wind energy in the near future.
Conductive magnetic-patchy colloidal microparticles for a high performance pressure sensor
Authors: Lee Woo Jin , Han Sang Woo , You Insang , Choi Song-Ee , Jeong Unyong , Kim Jin Woong
Published: September 2016

A robust and straightforward approach is proposed for fabrication of a new type of pressure sensor based on the positioned assembly of magnetic-patchy microparticles.
Mono-nuclear copper complexes mimicking the intermediates for the binuclear copper center of the subunit II of cytochrome oxidase: a peptide based approach
Authors: Dutta Gupta Dwaipayan , Usharani Dandamudi , Mazumdar Shyamalava
Published: September 2016

Novel copper peptides derived from the subunit-II of cytochrome oxidase mimic the intermediates in the pathway of the purple CuA center.
Enantioselective transfer hydrogenation, a key step for the synthesis of 3-aminotetrahydroquinolines
Authors: Aillerie Alexandre , Lemau de Talencé Vincent , Dumont Clément , Pellegrini Sylvain , Capet Frédéric , Bousquet Till , Pélinski Lydie
Published: September 2016

An enantioselective transfer hydrogenation has been successfully achieved to furnish 3-aminotetrahydroquinolines. The reaction was conducted in the presence of Hantzsch dihydropyridine and a catalytic amount of chiral phosphoric acid under mild conditions.
Utilizing non-stoichiometry in Nd2Zr2O7pyrochlore: exploring superior ionic conductors
Authors: Anithakumari P. , Grover V. , Nandi C. , Bhattacharyya K. , Tyagi A. K.
Published: September 2016

The optimisation and control of ordered and disordered regions in non-stoichiometric Nd2−xZr2+xO7+x/2pyrochlore system lead to enhancement of ionic conductivity.
Greenly synthesized graphene with l-glutathione-modified electrode and its application towards determination of rutin
Authors: Gao Yudong , Wang Lu , Zhang Yulong , Li Shuo , Zou Lina , Ye Baoxian
Published: September 2016

A simple, environmentally friendly and cost-effective approach for preparation of water-soluble functional graphene was proposed for constructing a voltammetric sensor platform.
A CTAB-modified S/C nanocomposite cathode for high performance Li–S batteries
Authors: Wang Xiuzhen , Qin Sai , Sun Pingping , Sun Yueming , Xu Qingyu , Lai Changwei , Fan Qi
Published: September 2016

Two unique S/C/Ni foam nanostructure electrodes are fabricated by a facile cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) modified electrodeposition method.
High performance ternary solar cells based on P3HT:PCBM and ZnPc-hybrids
Authors: Kadem Burak , Hassan Aseel , Göksel Meltem , Basova Tamara , Şenocak Ahmet , Demirbaş Erhan , Durmuş Mahmut
Published: September 2016

In this study, single walled carbon nanotubes and reduced graphene oxide covalently and non-covalently functionalised by ZnPc were added to P3HT:PCBM blend in order to investigate the effects of these hybrid materials on P3HT:PCBM organic solar cell performance.
The behavior of hydrophobic-core/hydrophilic-shell structured microgels at an interface: from Mickering emulsion to colloidosomes with dual-level controlled permeability
Authors: Gong Yi , Wang Mao , He Jianying
Published: September 2016

The release of model drug FITC-Dex from colloidosomes was examined in selected media and the controllable release was achieved by adjusting the pH (coarse level) and the ratio of the shell to core in the microgels (fine level).
Purification, characterization, synthesis, in vivo and in vitro antihypertensive activity of bioactive peptides derived from coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) cake globulin hydrolysates
Authors: Li Yan , Zheng Yajun , Zhang Yufeng , Liu Liyun , Zhao Songlin
Published: September 2016

This paper reports the purification, characterization,in vivoandin vitroantihypertensive activity of two novel peptides derived from coconut cake globulin hydrolysates.
Analyte-concentrating 3D hybrid plasmonic nanostructures for use in highly sensitive chemical sensors
Authors: Lee MinKyoung , Mun ChaeWon , Kim Dong-Ho , Chang Seung-Cheol , Park Sung-Gyu
Published: September 2016

This paper characterizes the analyte-concentrating effects of 3D porous Ag hybrid nanostructures to develop ultrasensitive SERS-based toxin sensors.
Molecular phase engineering of organic semiconductors based on a [1]benzothieno[3,2-b][1]benzothiophene core
Authors: He Yaowu , Xu Wenjun , Murtaza Imran , Zhang Dongwei , He Chao , Zhu Yanan , Meng Hong
Published: September 2016

Liquid crystalline material C6-Ph-BTBT exhibits higher mobility than that of the non-liquid crystalline material Ph-BTBT under the same conditions.
Highly-emissive solution-grown furan/phenylene co-oligomer single crystals
Authors: Kazantsev Maxim S. , Frantseva Ekaterina S. , Kudriashova Liudmila G. , Konstantinov Vladislav G. , Mannanov Artur A. , Rybalova Tatyana V. , Karpova Elena V. , Shundrina Inna K. , Kamaev Gennadiy N. , Pshenichnikov Maxim S. , Mostovich Evgeny A. , Paraschuk Dmitry Yu.
Published: September 2016

Solution-grown single crystals of furan/phenylene co-oligomer combine efficient charge transport properties and high fluorescence efficiency.
Correction: Biological fluorination from the sea: discovery of a SAM-dependent nucleophilic fluorinating enzyme from the marine-derived bacterium Streptomyces xinghaiensis NRRL B24674
Authors: Ma Long , Li Yufeng , Meng Lingpei , Deng Hai , Li Yuyin , Zhang Qiang , Diao Aipo
Published: September 2016

Correction for ‘Biological fluorination from the sea: discovery of a SAM-dependent nucleophilic fluorinating enzyme from the marine-derived bacterium Streptomyces xinghaiensis NRRL B24674’ by Long Ma et al., RSC Adv., 2016, 6, 27047–27051.
Exploration of Na7Fe4.5(P2O7)4 as a cathode material for sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Niu Yubin , Xu Maowen , Shen Bolei , Dai Chunlong , Li Chang Ming
Published: September 2016

A novel Na7Fe4.5(P2O7)4 compound was fabricated as a cathode for sodium-ion batteries by a mechanical milling assisted solid state method for the first time.
Fullerene-linked tetrabenzoporphyrins for solution-processed organic photovoltaics: flexible vs. rigid linkers
Authors: Tamura Yuto , Kuzuhara Daiki , Suzuki Mitsuharu , Hayashi Hironobu , Aratani Naoki , Yamada Hiroko
Published: September 2016

A benzoporphyrin–C60 dyad with a flexible linker is superior to a rigid-linker counterpart as interlayer material in solution-processed p–i–n organic solar cells.
Multidomain simulations of coated ferroelectrics exhibiting spatially selective photocatalytic activity with high internal quantum efficiencies
Authors: Glickstein James J. , Salvador Paul A. , Rohrer Gregory S.
Published: September 2016

Simulated coated ferroelectric photocatalysts are shown to promote spatially separated oxidation and reduction currents with internal quantum efficiencies over 90%.
Functional nanostructures for enzyme based biosensors: properties, fabrication and applications
Authors: Othman Ali , Karimi Anahita , Andreescu Silvana
Published: September 2016

A review describing functional nanostructures for portable and printable enzyme biosensors. Specific physicochemical and surface properties of nanoparticles used as carriers and sensing components and their assembly are discussed with an overview of current and emerging techniques enabling large scale roll-to-roll fabrication and miniaturization. Their integration in flexible, wearable and inexpensive point-of-use devices, and implementation challenges are also provided with examples of applications.
Resistive switching controlled by the hydration level in thin films of the biopigment eumelanin
Authors: Di Mauro E. , Carpentier O. , Yáñez Sánchez S. I. , Ignoumba Ignoumba N. , Lalancette-Jean M. , Lefebvre J. , Zhang S. , Graeff C. F. O. , Cicoira F. , Santato C.
Published: September 2016

Melanins are biopigments ubiquitous in flora and fauna, exhibiting a range of interesting functional properties such as UV-Vis photoprotection, thermoregulation, hydration-dependent electrical conduction and metal chelation.
Mental Tasking and Caloric-Induced Vestibular Nystagmus Utilizing Videonystagmography
Authors: Easterday Mary K. , Plyler Patrick N. , Doettl Steven M.
Published: September 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to quantify the effects of mental tasking on measures of the caloric vestibulo-ocular reflex utilizing videonystagmography as the measurement technique.

Method

A within-subjects repeated-measures design was utilized. Sixteen healthy adults were evaluated (13 women, 3 men; ages 19–31 years). Each participant underwent bithermal caloric irrigation at 2 separate counterbalanced visits. At 1 visit mental tasking was utilized, whereas the other visit did not utilize mental tasking. The following outcomes were measured for each visit: peak slow-phase velocity (SPV), response duration, peak SPV latency, and eye blink artifact.

Results

No significant difference was seen for tasking versus no tasking with peak SPV, peak latency, or response duration. A significant difference was seen for the amount of eye blink artifact, with significantly more eye blinks present for the tasking condition.

Conclusions

Results could indicate mental tasking does not affect the important measure of SPV. Moreover, increased eye blink artifact with tasking could obscure the clinician's ability to read the nystagmograph. However, this investigation is limited to the healthy young adult population, and more studies should be performed to corroborate the presented evidence.
A comparison between stochastic DEA and fuzzy DEA approaches: revisiting efficiency in Angolan banks
Authors: Wanke P. , Barros C.P. , Emrouznejad A.
Published: September 2016

Performance analysis has become a vital part of the management practices in the banking industry. There are numerous applications using DEA models to estimate efficiency in banking, and most of them assume that inputs and outputs are known with absolute precision. Here, we compare Stochastic-DEA and Fuzzy-DEA models to assess, respectively, how the underlying randomness and fuzziness impact efficiency levels. The proposed models have been demonstrated using an application in Angolan banks. Findings reveal that conclusions with respect to the ranking of DMUs may vary substantially depending upon the type of the model chosen, although efficiency scores are similar to some extent when compared within the ambits of Stochastic-DEA and Fuzzy-DEA models. Additionally, modeling choices on fuzziness, rather than on randomness, appears to be the most critical source for variations in efficiency rankings. Managerial implications for Angolan banks are also explored.
Polarity formation in crystals with long range molecular interactions: A Monte Carlo study
Authors: Cannavacciuolo Luigi , Hulliger Jürg
Published: September 2016

Stochastic formation of a bi-polar state in three dimensional arrays of polar molecules with full Coulomb interactions is reproduced by Monte Carlo simulation. The size of the system is comparable to that of a real crystal seed. The spatial decay of the average order parameter is significantly slowed down by the long range interactions and the exact representation of correlation effects in terms of a single characteristic length becomes impossible. Finite size effects and possible scale invariance symmetry of the order parameter are extensively discussed.
Hydrogen interstitial defects in acceptor-type CuO-doped PbTiO3—Uptake and dissolution of water vapor and formation of (CuTi″−(OH)O•)′ defect complexes
Authors: Jakes Peter , Kungl Hans , Schierholz Roland , Granwehr Josef , Eichel Rüdiger-A.
Published: September 2016

The defect structure of CuO-doped PbTiO3 has been analyzed using the Hyperfine Sublevel Correlation Experiment to identify hydrogen interstitials. The formation of (CuTi″−(OH)O•)′ defect complexes has been observed, which exist in addition to the (CuTi″−VO••)× complexes. On this basis, modified reorientation characteristics are proposed due to a change in hopping mechanism from an oxygen-vacancy mediated migration mechanism to a proton hopping process. Furthermore, mobile hydrogen interstitials are generated that increase conductivity in terms of a “Grotthuss”-type charge-transport mechanism.
Right care, right place, right time: improving the timeliness of health care in New South Wales through a public–private hospital partnership
Authors: Saunders Carla , Carter David J.
Published: September 2016

Objective
The overall aim of the study was to investigate and assess the feasibility of improving the timeliness of public hospital care through a New South Wales (NSW)-wide public–private hospital partnership.

Methods
The study reviewed the academic and professional grey literature, and undertook exploratory analyses of secondary data acquired from two national health data repositories informing in-patient access and utilisation across NSW public and private hospitals.

Results
In 2014–15, the NSW public hospital system was unable to deliver care within the medically recommended time frame for over 27 400 people who were awaiting elective surgery. Available information indicates that the annual commissioning of 15% of public in-patient rehabilitation bed days to the private hospital system would potentially free up enough capacity in the NSW public hospital system to enable elective surgery for all public patients within recommended time frames.

Conclusions
The findings of the study justify a strategic whole-of-health system approach to reducing public patient wait times in NSW and highlight the need for research efforts aimed at securing a better understanding of available hospital capacity across the public and private hospital systems, and identifying and testing workable models that improve the timeliness of public hospital care.

What is known about the topic?
There are very few studies available to inform public–private hospital service partnerships and the opportunities available to improve timely health care access through such partnerships.

What does this paper add?
This paper has the potential to open and prompt timely discussion and debate, and generate further fundamental investigation, on public–private hospital service partnerships in Australia where opportunity is available to address elective surgery wait times in a reliable and effective manner.

What are the implications for practitioners?
The NSW Ministry of Health and its Local Health Districts have the potential to realise a key objective, namely to deliver the ‘right care, in the right place, at the right time’, through the core value of collaboration, using available infrastructure.
The Evolution of New Catalytic Mechanisms for Xenobiotic Hydrolysis in Bacterial Metalloenzymes
Authors: Sugrue Elena , Hartley Carol J. , Scott Colin , Jackson Colin J.
Published: September 2016

An increasing number of bacterial metalloenzymes have been shown to catalyse the breakdown of xenobiotics in the environment, while others exhibit a variety of promiscuous xenobiotic-degrading activities. Several different evolutionary processes have allowed these enzymes to gain or enhance xenobiotic-degrading activity. In this review, we have surveyed the range of xenobiotic-degrading metalloenzymes, and discuss the molecular and catalytic basis for the development of new activities. We also highlight how our increased understanding of the natural evolution of xenobiotic-degrading metalloenzymes can be been applied to laboratory enzyme design.
Human papillomavirus vaccination in men who have sex with men – what will be required by 2020 for the same dramatic changes seen in heterosexuals
Authors: Fairley Christopher K. , Zou Huachun , Zhang Lei , Chow Eric P. F.
Published: September 2016

This paper addresses the issue of whether men who have sex with men (MSM) will share the spectacular reductions in human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and its associated neoplasia that we are currently witnessing in heterosexuals. The reproductive rate for HPV infection in heterosexuals is not well established, but 70% vaccination coverage in women has resulted in a fall of more than 90% in genital warts and HPV types 16/18 in young women and 80% fall in young men indicating that the critical vaccination threshold has been exceeded for this group. Published data on the three elements of the reproductive rate for HPV infection (i.e. transmission probability per sexual partnership, rate of partner change and duration of infectiousness) suggest they are higher in MSM than heterosexuals. This indicates that the reproductive rate for HPV will be higher in MSM and hence the critical vaccination threshold will also be higher. But while vaccinating 70% of girls protect 70% of sexual partnerships in heterosexuals, vaccinating 70% of boys protect more than 70% of partnerships in MSM. Only 9% (30% by 30%) of sexual partnerships in MSM are not protected with 70% coverage. Therefore vaccinating 70% of boys will protect 91% of sexual partnerships in MSM. However the efficacy of the HPV vaccine is much lower when sexually active MSM are vaccinated rather than boys. We argue that if MSM are to have the same benefit from the HPV vaccine that heterosexuals had, boys and not adult MSM will need to be vaccinated.
Lignans from Opuntia ficus-indica seeds protect rat primary hepatocytes and HepG2 cells against ethanol-induced oxidative stress
Authors: Kim Jung Wha , Yang Heejung , Kim Hyeon Woo , Kim Hong Pyo , Sung Sang Hyun
Published: September 2016

Bioactivity-guided isolation of Opuntia ficus-indica (Cactaceae) seeds against ethanol-treated primary rat hepatocytes yielded six lignan compounds. Among the isolates, furofuran lignans 4−6, significantly protected rat hepatocytes against ethanol-induced oxidative stress by reducing intracellular reactive oxygen species levels, preserving antioxidative defense enzyme activities, and maintaining the glutathione content. Moreover, 4 dose-dependently induced the heme oxygenase-1 expression in HepG2 cells.
Compositional Strategies in Schubert’s Late Music
Authors: Dürr Walther
Published: September 2016

Schubert’s late compositions—essentially the works from 1827–8—indicate clearly his search for new paths. He seems earlier to have made his own a series of techniques which he now deepens, expands and purposefully employs, and with that creates he something substantially new. This will be shown by various examples, taken mainly from his Piano Trio in E ♭ major, D 929. First are contrapuntal techniques: in canon (as in the Scherzando movement and in the finale of the trio), fugato and fugue. Secondly, Schubert stresses motivic and sub-motivic connections in order to establish associations within an individual movement and between different movements. Thirdly, he strives for a reappraisal of tonality, which takes its place alongside the traditional means of composition (rhythm, melody and harmony). All these elements point to the fact that the musical world, to borrow Grillparzer’s words, would have been able to cherish ‘much fairer hopes’ and to expect meaningful innovations, had the Schubert composer lived.
Franz Schubert’s ‘New Style’ and the Legacy of Beethoven
Authors: Kinderman William
Published: September 2016

Today, more than two centuries after Schubert’s birth, his instrumental compositions have begun to take their place beside Beethoven’s as works of almost unmatched richness of expression. The aesthetic framework of Schubert’s mature instrumental works reveals a highly distinctive, original approach that is indebted to Schubert’s profound experience with lieder. In this respect, one can endorse Hans-Joachim Hinrichsen’s proposal that Schubert’s relation to Beethoven does not display mere imitation but is instead a ‘self-conscious alternative position’. Close analysis of aspects of the last three piano sonatas supports this view. The C minor Sonata invites comparison to Schubert’s setting of Heine’s ‘Der Atlas’, whereas aspects of the final Sonata in B ♭ evoke features of the Heine setting ‘Ihr Bild’ as well as Schubert’s famous song based on ‘Der Wanderer’ by Schmidt von Lübeck. Schubert’s resourceful absorption of the symbolism of the wanderer endows his later instrumental works with an impressive originality that holds its own beside Beethoven’s legacy.
The Sensuous as a Constructive Force in Schubert’s Late Works
Authors: Black Brian
Published: September 2016

Schubert’s sensitivity to the sensual quality of sound and its expressive potential is a feature of his music that sets it apart from that of his contemporaries. In Schubert’s vocal and instrumental works, carefully marked sonorities or striking harmonic events emerge not simply as local effects, but as important structural components of the work that bind its various parts together and give it its particular expressive significance. The way in which Schubert employs this material reveals a highly original treatment of form that depends upon allusion, recall and sudden transformation rather than the type of developing variation associated with Beethoven. This aspect of Schubert’s music becomes a powerful force in the masterpieces of his last years. This chapter will examine how the transformations of a single sonority in ‘Ihr Bild’ convey the dramatic flow and expressive content of the lied. It will trace the same process in the Impromptu in G ♭ major, Op. 90/3.
(Re-)Theorising Schubert’s ‘Reliquie’
Authors: Gardner Cameron
Published: September 2016

In her biography of Schubert, Elizabeth Norman McKay has claimed considerable significance for the unfinished Piano Sonata in C major (‘Reliquie’, D 840). Her views are inspired by an expansive rise and fall in the development of the first movement and in the central section of the minuet. For McKay, these approaches to and retreats from a peak suggest a ‘narrative content’. Later in her biography the descriptions of the two examples from the ‘Reliquie’ are reiterated in order to highlight comparative moments in the ‘Great’ C major Symphony. This chapter offers unexplored contexts that have potential implications for the reception of the work, for Schubert’s developments and for musical features often dismissed as surface irrelevance. This chapter will consider precedents in corresponding parts of earlier works by Schubert and other composers. Equivalent passages in the C major Symphony will reveal some proportional and harmonic correspondence to the Sonata, especially to the example from the first movement.
Conspicuous 6-Phase Chords in the Closing Movement of Schubert’s Piano Sonata in B♭ Major (D 960)
Authors: Damschroder David
Published: September 2016

This chapter integrates perspectives on three issues. First, the movement’s correlation to a standard sonata-rondo form (Hepokoski and Darcy’s Type 4 sonata) will be delineated, in conjunction with an assessment of its idiosyncratic tonal plan. Secondly, innovative ways in which Schubert connects B ♭ and G chords will be explored. Thirdly, the fact that Schubert here uses tonic and dominant 6-phase chords in an emotionally positive context will be juxtaposed with the first movement’s extension to less salutary variants—the tonic’s G ♭—B ♭♭ –D ♭ (= F ♯–A–C ♯) and the dominant’s D ♭–F ♭–A ♭—drawing upon my discussion of that movement in Harmony in Schubert. Whereas those variants give the opening movement a sombre cast, by the final movement a new ebullience has emerged. Schubert utilises 6-phase chords extensively without exposing their darker potentialities, his artistic vision committed to making all end well. As we know, he was unable to translate that vision into a similarly positive transformation of his health.