bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential Orphan Drug Therapy of Intravesical Liposomal Onabotulinumtoxin-A for Ketamine-Induced Cystitis by Mucosal Protection and Anti-inflammation in a Rat Model
Authors: Lee Wei-Chia , Su Chia-Hao , Tain You-Lin , Tsai Cheng-Nan , Yu Chun-Chieh , Chuang Yao-Chi
Published: April 2018

Ketamine abusers may develop ulcerative cystitis and severe lower urinary tract symptoms, which is a medical dilemma. Recently, researchers have found the endemic of ketamine-induced cystitis worldwide. The intravesical administration of liposome-encapsulated onabotulinumtoxinA (Lipotoxin) might facilitate the healing of the damaged urothelium from liposomes, and reduce the urinary symptoms by onabotulinumtoxinA-induced chemo-denervation. Using female Sprague-Dawley rats, we investigated the effects of Lipotoxin on ketamine-induced cystitis. Functional magnetic resonance imaging, metabolic cage study, and cystometry were conducted. Paraffin-embedded sections were stained. The bladder mucosa and muscle proteins were assessed through Western blotting. We observed that repeated intravesical Lipotoxin instillation could improve suburothelial hemorrhage, recover the urothelial tight junction and adhesion proteins (zonula occludens-1 and E-cadherin), ensure less substance P in the urothelium, inhibit the overexpression of inflammatory mediators (IL-6, TNF-α, nuclear NF-κB, and COX-2) in the detrusor, suppress the upregulation of the mucosal TRPV1 and detrusor M2-mAChR, and ameliorate bladder overactivity in the ketamine-treated rats. These data reveal the mechanisms underlying the action of Lipotoxin in ketamine-induced cystitis of rats, which provide a basis of Lipotoxin for further treating ketamine-induced cystitis in humans.
Age–Period–Cohort Analysis of Trends in Mortality from Drowning in China: Data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2015
Authors: Wang Zhenkun , Yu Chuanhua , Xiang Henry , Li Gang , Hu Songbo , Tang Jinhui
Published: April 2018

The studies on drowning mortality are very scarce in China, and the aim of this study is to identify the long-term patterns of drowning mortality in China between 1990 and 2015 to provide evidence for further prevention and control on drowning. The mortality data were derived from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2015 and were analyzed with the age–period–cohort framework. This study demonstrated that the age-standardized mortality rates for drowning in both sexes displayed general declining trends with a decrease in the drowning mortality rate for every age group. In the same birth cohort, both sexes witnessed a substantial decline followed by a slight increase in the risk of death from drowning with age after controlling for period deviations. The estimated period and cohort relative risks were found in similar monotonic downward patterns for both sexes, with more reduction for females than for males during the whole study period.
Function of alanine racemase in the physiological activity and cariogenicity of Streptococcus mutans
Authors: Liu Shiyu , Wei Yuan , Zhou Xuedong , Zhang Keke , Peng Xian , Ren Biao , Chen Vivian , Cheng Lei , Li Mingyun
Published: April 2018

The enzyme alanine racemase (Alr) has been a new target for the development of antibacterial drugs based on the involvement of D-Ala in bacterial cell wall biosynthesis. Our previous study noted that Alr is essential for the growth and interspecies competitiveness of S. mutans, the major causative organism of dental caries. However, physiological activity and cariogenicity of S. mutans affected by Alr remains unknown. The current study examined the biofilm biomass, biofilm structure, extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) synthesis, glucosyltransferase (gtf) gene expression, acid production and acid tolerance in the alr-mutant strain. We found that biofilm formation, biofilm structure, and EPS synthesis was in a D-Ala dose-dependent manner. Biofilm structure was loose in alr-mutant group and the ratio of EPS/bacteria was also elevated. Additionally, the expression levels of multiple gtfs were up-regulated, and acid tolerance was decreased. We also established in vivo models of dental caries and found that the incidence and severity of the caries were decreased in the alr-mutant group in comparison to the parental S. mutans group. Our in vivo and in vitro experiments demonstrate that Alr is essential for the cariogenicity of S. mutans and that Alr might be a potential target for the prevention and treatment of caries.
Diversity and bioactive potential of culturable fungal endophytes of Dysosma versipellis; a rare medicinal plant endemic to China
Authors: Tan Xiao-ming , Zhou Ya-qin , Zhou Xiao-lei , Xia Xiang-hua , Wei Ying , He Li-li , Tang Hong-zhen , Yu Li-ying
Published: April 2018

The plant Dysosma versipellis is known for its antimicrobial and anticancer properties but is a rare and vulnerable perennial herb that is endemic to China. In this study, 224 isolates were isolated from various tissues of D. versipellis, and were classified into 53 different morphotypes according to culture characteristics and were identified by sequence analyses of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of the rRNA gene. Although nine strains were not assignable at the phylum level, 44 belonged to at least 29 genera of 15 orders of Ascomycota (93%), Basidiomycota (6%), and Zygomycota (1%). Subsequent assays revealed antimicrobial activities of 19% of endophytic extracts against at least one pathogenic bacterium or fungus. Antimicrobial activity was also determined using the agar diffusion method and was most prominent in extracts from four isolates. Moreover, high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time of flight mass spectrometry analyses (UPLC–QTOF MS) showed the presence of podophyllotoxin in two Fusarium strains, with the highest yield of 277 μg/g in Fusarium sp. (WB5121). Taken together, the present data suggest that various endophytic fungi of D. versipellis could be exploited as sources of novel natural antimicrobial or anticancer agents.
Effect of dietary probiotics on the semen traits and antioxidative activity of male broiler breeders
Authors: Inatomi Takio , Otomaru Konosuke
Published: April 2018

This study aimed to investigate the effect of probiotics on the intestinal morphology, intestinal microflora, oxidative activity (biological antioxidant potential), and semen quality of male broiler breeders. For this, 180 Cobb male broiler breeders (60 weeks of age) were randomly distributed into two groups. The control group was fed a basal diet, and the probiotics group was fed basal diet supplemented with probiotics for 6 weeks. Probiotics containing Bacillus amyloliquefaciens TOA5001 improved the above mentioned characteristics of the male broiler breeders. Thus, B. amyloliquefaciens TOA5001 might improve the reproductive performance of male broiler breeders.
Microcrack healing in non-ferrous metal tubes through eddy current pulse treatment
Authors: Xu Wenchen , Yang Chuan , Yu Haiping , Jin Xueze , Guo Bin , Shan Debin
Published: April 2018

This study proposed a novel method to heal microcrack within Mg alloy tubes using high density eddy current pulse treatment (ECPT). Through electromagnetic induction inside a copper coil connected with a high density pulse power source supply, the high density (greater than 5 × 109 A/m2) and short duration eddy current was generated in tube specimens of Mg alloy. The results show that the microcracks in tube specimens was healed evidently and the mechanical properties of the tubes subjected to ECPT were improved simultaneously. The crack healing during ECPT was ascribed to not only the thermal stress around the microcrack tips and the softening or melting of metals in the vicinity of microcrack tips, but also the squeezing action acted by the Lorentz force. In the inward-discharging scheme, both the compressive radial stress and tangential stress induced by the Lorentz force contributed to more sufficient crack healing and thus better mechanical properties of tube specimens after the ECPT experiment, compared to the outward-discharging scheme. The ECPT can heal microcracks automatically without directly contacting tubular specimens and is not limited by the length of tubular workpieces, exhibiting great potential for crack healing in non-ferrous alloy tubes.
Morphological characterization of NG2 glia and their association with neuroglial cells in the 3-nitropropionic acid–lesioned striatum of rat
Authors: Jin Xuyan , Riew Tae-Ryong , Kim Hong Lim , Choi Jeong-Heon , Lee Mun-Yong
Published: April 2018

Our aim was to examine the spatiotemporal profiles and phenotypic characteristics of neuron-glia antigen 2 (NG2) glia and their associations with neuroglial cells in striatal lesions due to the mitochondrial toxin 3-nitropropionic acid (3-NP). In control striatum, weak NG2 immunoreactivity was restricted to resting NG2 glia with thin processes, but prominent NG2 expression was noted on activated microglia/macrophages, and reactive NG2 glia in the lesion core after 3-NP injection. Activation of NG2 glia, including enhanced proliferation and morphological changes, had a close spatiotemporal relationship with infiltration of activated microglia into the lesion core. Thick and highly branched processes of reactive NG2 glia formed a cellular network in the astrocyte-free lesion core and primarily surrounded developing cavities 2–4 weeks post-lesion. NG2 glia became associated with astrocytes in the lesion core and the border of cavities over the chronic interval of 4–8 weeks. Immunoelectron microscopy indicated that reactive NG2 glia had large euchromatic nuclei with prominent nucleoli and thick and branched processes that ramified distally. Thus, our data provide detailed information regarding the morphologies of NG2 glia in the lesion core, and support the link between transformation of NG2 glia to the reactive form and microglial activation/recruitment in response to brain insults.
Extensive T cell cross-reactivity between diverse seasonal influenza strains in the ferret model
Authors: Reber Adrian J. , Music Nedzad , Kim Jin Hyang , Gansebom Shane , Chen Jufu , York Ian
Published: April 2018

Influenza virus causes widespread, yearly epidemics by accumulating surface protein mutations to escape neutralizing antibodies established from prior exposure. In contrast to antibody epitopes, T cell mediated immunity targets influenza epitopes that are more highly conserved and have potential for cross-protection. The extent of T cell cross-reactivity between a diverse array of contemporary and historical influenza strains was investigated in ferrets challenged with 2009 pandemic H1N1 influenza or the seasonal H3N2 strain, A/Perth/16/2009. Post-challenge cell-mediated immune responses demonstrated extensive cross-reactivity with a wide variety of contemporary and historical influenza A strains as well as influenza B. Responses in peripheral blood were undetectable by 36d post-challenge, but cross-reactivity persisted in spleen. The strongest responses targeted peptides from the NP protein and demonstrated cross-reactivity in both the CD4+ and CD8+ T cell populations. Cross-reactive CD4+ T cells also targeted HA and NA epitopes, while cross-reactive CD8+ T cells targeted internal M1, NS2, and PA. T cell epitopes demonstrated extensive cross-reactivity between diverse influenza strains in outbred animals, with NP implicated as a significant antigenic target demonstrating extensive cross-reactivity for both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells.
Ascorbic acid induces global epigenetic reprogramming to promote meiotic maturation and developmental competence of porcine oocytes
Authors: Yu Xiao-Xia , Liu Yun-Hua , Liu Xiao-Man , Wang Pei-Chao , Liu Shuai , Miao Jia-Kun , Du Zhi-Qiang , Yang Cai-Xia
Published: April 2018

L-ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) can enhance the meiotic maturation and developmental competence of porcine oocytes, but the underlying molecular mechanism remains obscure. Here we show the role of ascorbic acid in regulating epigenetic status of both nucleic acids and chromatin to promote oocyte maturation and development in pigs. Supplementation of 250 μM L-ascorbic acid 2-phosphate sesquimagnesium salt hydrate (AA2P) during in vitro maturation significantly enhanced the nuclear maturation (as indicated by higher rate of first polar body extrusion and increased Bmp15 mRNA level), reduced level of reactive oxygen species, and promoted developmental potency (higher cleavage and blastocyst rates of parthenotes, and decreased Bax and Caspase3 mRNA levels in blastocysts) of pig oocytes. AA2P treatment caused methylation erasure in mature oocytes on nucleic acids (5-methylcytosine (5 mC) and N
6
-methyladenosine (m6A)) and histones (Histone H3 trimethylations at lysines 27, H3K27me3), but establishment of histone H3 trimethylations at lysines 4 (H3K4me3) and 36 (H3K36me3). During the global methylation reprogramming process, levels of TET2 (mRNA and protein) and Dnmt3b (mRNA) were significantly elevated, but simultaneously DNMT3A (mRNA and protein), and also Hif-1α, Hif-2α, Tet3, Mettl14, Kdm5b and Eed (mRNA) were significantly inhibited. Our findings support that ascorbic acid can reprogram the methylation status of not only DNA and histone, but also RNA, to improve pig oocyte maturation and developmental competence.
Stress-induced reverse martensitic transformation in a Ti-51Ni (at%) alloy aged under uniaxial stress
Authors: Xiao Fei , Chen Hong , Jin Xuejun , Nie Zhihua , Kakeshita Tomoyuki , Fukuda Takashi
Published: April 2018

Ti-51Ni (at%) alloys including coherent precipitates of Ti3Ni4 exhibits thermally-induced B2-R transformation. If the Ti3Ni4 is formed under tensile stress, it orientates preferentially so that its habit plane becomes perpendicular to the tensile axis. In such specimens, stress-induced reverse R-B2 transformation is reported to occur. In the present study, the stress-induced reverse R-B2 transformation behavior was studied by infrared camera and in situ X-ray analysis. The infrared camera observation revealed that the temperature of the specimen decreases homogeneously by the application of tensile stress within the resolution of the camera. The in situ X-ray analysis revealed that stress-induced reverse R-B2 transformation and rearrangement of variants of the R-phase occurs simultaneously in the specimen.
No Prophylactic Antibiotic Use for Young Children’s Intussusception with Low-risk Infection after Successful Air Enema Reduction
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Zou Wen , Ren Lemeng , Zhang Yinghui , Sun Zhaohui , Liu Huandi , Liu Qian , Si Chunfeng , Jia Hongying
Published: April 2018

The Chinese government has issued the policy of promulgating the clinical use of antibacterial drugs since 2011. Prophylactic antibiotic use is a challenging problem among young children with intussusception after successful air enema reduction. There were limited data regarding the clinical value of prophylactic antibiotics for intussusception with low-risk infections. A retrospective non-randomized comparative study was conducted among 188 young children with intussusception after successful air enema reduction between January 1, 2011 and December 30, 2013. Among these children, 51 received prophylactic antibiotics and 137 did not receive antibiotics. Our results showed that there were no significant differences in age, gender, weight, admission period, reduction interval, axillary temperature, leukocytes, neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, mesenteric lymph nodes and complications between groups (P > 0.05). The national policy had significantly improved clinical use of antibiotic for young children with low-risk intussusception (OR < 0.001, P < 0.001). Inpatients days were longer for children used antibiotics than those who did not (median, 27.0 hours vs 21.0 hours, P = 0.003). Prophylactic antibiotics appeared to be of little value after the successful air enema reduction of intussusception in young children with low-risk infection. Policy intervention is effective for antibiotic use in China.
Shallow deformation of the San Andreas fault 5 years following the 2004 Parkfield earthquake (Mw6) combining ERS2 and Envisat InSAR
Authors: Bacques Guillaume , de Michele Marcello , Raucoules Daniel , Aochi Hideo , Rolandone Frédérique
Published: April 2018

This study focuses on the shallow deformation that occurred during the 5 years following the Parkfield earthquake (28/09/2004, Mw 6, San Andreas Fault, California). We use Synthetic Aperture Radar interferometry (InSAR) to provide precise measurements of transient deformations after the Parkfield earthquake between 2005 and 2010. We propose a method to combine both ERS2 and ENVISAT interferograms to increase the temporal data sampling. Firstly, we combine 5 years of available Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) acquisitions including both ERS-2 and Envisat. Secondly, we stack selected interferograms (both from ERS2 and Envisat) for measuring the temporal evolution of the ground velocities at given time intervals. Thanks to its high spatial resolution, InSAR could provide new insights on the surface fault motion behavior over the 5 years following the Parkfield earthquake. As a complement to previous studies in this area, our results suggest that shallow transient deformations affected the Creeping-Parkfield-Cholame sections of the San Andreas Fault after the 2004 Mw6 Parkfield earthquake.
An Implantable Peripheral Nerve Recording and Stimulation System for Experiments on Freely Moving Animal Subjects
Authors: Lee Byunghun , Koripalli Mukhesh K. , Jia Yaoyao , Acosta Joshua , Sendi M. S. E. , Choi Yoonsu , Ghovanloo Maysam
Published: April 2018

A new study with rat sciatic nerve model for peripheral nerve interfacing is presented using a fully-implanted inductively-powered recording and stimulation system in a wirelessly-powered standard homecage that allows animal subjects move freely within the homecage. The Wireless Implantable Neural Recording and Stimulation (WINeRS) system offers 32-channel peripheral nerve recording and 4-channel current-controlled stimulation capabilities in a 3 × 1.5 × 0.5 cm3 package. A bi-directional data link is established by on-off keying pulse-position modulation (OOK-PPM) in near field for narrow-band downlink and 433 MHz OOK for wideband uplink. An external wideband receiver is designed by adopting a commercial software defined radio (SDR) for a robust wideband data acquisition on a PC. The WINeRS-8 prototypes in two forms of battery-powered headstage and wirelessly-powered implant are validated in vivo, and compared with a commercial system. In the animal study, evoked compound action potentials were recorded to verify the stimulation and recording capabilities of the WINeRS-8 system with 32-ch penetrating and 4-ch cuff electrodes on the sciatic nerve of awake freely-behaving rats. Compared to the conventional battery-powered system, WINeRS can be used in closed-loop recording and stimulation experiments over extended periods without adding the burden of carrying batteries on the animal subject or interrupting the experiment.
The Hepatitis Delta Virus accumulation requires paraspeckle components and affects NEAT1 level and PSP1 localization
Authors: Beeharry Yasnee , Goodrum Gabrielle , Imperiale Christian J. , Pelchat Martin
Published: April 2018

The Hepatitis Delta Virus (HDV) relies mainly on host proteins for its replication. We previously identified that PSF and p54nrb associate with the HDV RNA genome during viral replication. Together with PSP1, these proteins are part of paraspeckles, which are subnuclear bodies nucleated by the long non-coding RNA NEAT1. In this work, we established the requirement for PSF, p54nrb and PSP1 in HDV replication using RNAi-mediated knockdown in HEK-293 cells replicating the HDV RNA genome. We determined that HDV replication induces the delocalization of PSP1 to cytoplasmic foci containing PABP and increases NEAT1 level causing an enlargement of NEAT1 foci. Overall, our data support a role for the main paraspeckles proteins in HDV life cycle and indicate that HDV replication causes a cellular stress and induces both a delocalization of the PSP1 to the cytoplasm and a disruption of paraspeckles.
Netrin-1 promotes diabetic corneal wound healing through molecular mechanisms mediated via the adenosine 2B receptor
Authors: Zhang Yangyang , Chen Peng , Di Guohu , Qi Xia , Zhou Qingjun , Gao Hua
Published: April 2018

Netrins are secreted chemoattractants with the roles in axon guidance, cell migration and epithelial plasticity. In the present study, we investigated the roles of netrin-1 in the regulation of corneal epithelial wound healing, inflammation response and nerve fiber regeneration in diabetic mice and cultured corneal epithelial cells. In diabetic mice, the expression of netrin-1 was decreased when compared with that of normal mice. Furthermore, high glucose blocked the wounding-induced up-regulation of netrin-1 expression in corneal epithelial cells. Exogenous netrin-1 promoted the corneal epithelial wound healing in diabetic mice, and facilitated the proliferation and migration by reactivating the phosphorylation of ERK and EGFR in high-glucose treated corneal epithelial cells. Moreover, netrin-1 decreased the neutrophil infiltration and promoted M2 macrophage transition, accompanied with the attenuated expression of pro-inflammatory factors in diabetic mouse corneal epithelium. The promotions of netrin-1 on corneal epithelial wound healing and inflammation resolution were mediated at least through the adenosine 2B receptor. In addition, netrin-1 promoted the regeneration of corneal nerve fibers that was impaired in diabetic mice. Taken together, netrin-1 regulates corneal epithelial wound healing, inflammation response and nerve fiber regeneration in diabetic mice, indicating the potential application for the therapy of diabetic keratopathy.
Characterization of AiiK, an AHL lactonase, from Kurthia huakui LAM0618T and its application in quorum quenching on Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1
Authors: Dong Weiwei , Zhu Jie , Guo Xiang , Kong Delong , Zhang Qi , Zhou Yiqing , Liu Xiaoyang , Zhao Shumiao , Ruan Zhiyong
Published: April 2018

N-Acyl homoserine lactones (AHLs) act as the key quorum sensing (QS) signal molecules in gram-negative bacteria, which coordinates gene expression and then activates various processes, including biofilm formation and production of virulence factors in some pathogens. Quorum quenching (QQ), which is the inactivation of the signal molecules by means of enzymatic degradation or modification, inhibits the processes of QS rather than killing the pathogens and is a promising antipathogenic strategy to control the bacterial pathogens. In this study, an AHL lactonase gene (named aiiK) was cloned from Kurthia huakuii LAM0618T and the AHL lactonase AiiK was expressed by Escherichia coli. AiiK exhibits a variable substrate spectrum and efficient degradation of the AHL compounds. The enzyme assays demonstrated that AiiK behaves as an AHL lactonase that can hydrolyze the lactone bond of the AHLs. The total hydrolytic efficiency of AiiK for C10-HSL is 3.9 s−1·mM−1. AiiK can also maintain 20% activity after 12 h incubation at 37 °C and demonstrate great resistance to α-chymotrypsin, trypsin, and protease K. Furthermore, AiiK significantly inhibits the biofilm formation and attenuates extracellular proteolytic activity and pyocyanin production of Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1, which indicates the potential application of AiiK as a biocontrol agent or an anti-pathogenic drug.
Relativistic quantum key distribution system with one-way quantum communication
Authors: Kravtsov K. S. , Radchenko I. V. , Kulik S. P. , Molotkov S. N.
Published: April 2018

Unambiguous state discrimination (USD) is one of the major obstacles for practical quantum key distribution (QKD). Often overlooked, it allows efficient eavesdropping in majority of practical systems, provided the overall channel loss is above a certain threshold. Thus, to remain secure all such systems must not only monitor the actual loss, but also possess a comprehensive information on the safe ‘loss vs. BER’ levels, which is often well beyond currently known security analyses. The more advanced the protocol the tougher it becomes to find and prove corresponding bounds. To get out of this vicious circle and solve the problem outright, we demonstrate a so called relativistic QKD system, which uses causality to become inherently immune to USD-based attacks. The system proves to be practical in metropolitan line-of-sight arrangements. At the same time it has a very basic structure that allows for a straightforward and comprehensive security analysis.
Reiner Gamma albedo features reproduced by modeling solar wind standoff
Authors: Deca Jan , Divin Andrey , Lue Charles , Ahmadi Tara , Horányi Mihály
Published: April 2018

All lunar swirls are known to be co-located with crustal magnetic anomalies (LMAs). Not all LMAs can be associated with albedo markings, making swirls, and their possible connection with the former, an intriguing puzzle yet to be solved. By coupling fully kinetic simulations with a Surface Vector Mapping model, we show that solar wind standoff, an ion–electron kinetic interaction mechanism that locally prevents weathering by solar wind ions, reproduces the shape of the Reiner Gamma albedo pattern. Our method reveals why not every magnetic anomaly forms a distinct albedo marking. A qualitative match between optical remote observations and in situ particle measurements of the back-scattered ions is simultaneously achieved, demonstrating the importance of a kinetic approach to describe the solar wind interaction with LMAs. The anti-correlation between the predicted amount of surface weathering and the surface reflectance is strongest when evaluating the proton energy flux.
Coupling free radical catalysis, climate change, and human health
Authors: Anderson J. G. , Clapp C. E.
Published: April 2018

Linking free radical catalytic loss of stratospheric ozone over the central United States to climate forcing by CO2and CH4.
New insights into re-entrant melting of microgel particles by polymer-induced aggregation experiments
Authors: Schneider Jochen , Werner Marcel , Bartsch Eckhard
Published: April 2018

Cluster S(q)s measured in aggregation studies on dilute mixtures of polystyrene microgel colloids and linear polystyrene reveal that weaker 1 : 50 crosslinked particles interpenetrate under the osmotic pressure of the polymer while 1 : 10 crosslinked do not. This may explain the extraordinarily large fluid pocket observed between repulsive and attractive glass domains for 1 : 50 crosslinked particles.
Development and investigation of multi-layered homo- and hetero-type DNA thin films
Authors: Arasu Velu , Jeon Sohee , Jeong Jun-Ho , Park Sung Ha
Published: April 2018

Multi-layered DNA and CTMA-modified DNA thin films are fabricated and their novel physical characteristics are investigated.
Dependence of cell adhesion on extracellular matrix materials formed on pore bridge boundaries by nanopore opening and closing geometry
Authors: Kim Sueon , Han Dong Yeol , Chen Zhenzhong , Lee Won Gu
Published: April 2018

Here we report the formation of extracellular matrix materials formed on pore bridge boundaries that promote the adhesion of cells cultured onto nanoporous substrates, depending on their opening/closing ended geometry.
The role ofSox9in collagen hydrogel-mediated chondrogenic differentiation of adult mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs)
Authors: Jiang Xianfang , Huang Xianyuan , Jiang Tongmeng , Zheng Li , Zhao Jinmin , Zhang Xingdong
Published: April 2018

Sox9 is a transcription factor that regulates chondrogenesis, but its role in the chondrogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) triggered by materials is poorly understood.
Heparin-induced tau filaments are structurally heterogeneous and differ from Alzheimer's disease filaments
Authors: Fichou Yann , Vigers Michael , Goring Andrew K. , Eschmann Neil A. , Han Songi
Published: April 2018

Tau filaments formed with heparin are structurally different from Alzheimer's disease filaments extracted from human brains. Heparin creates heterogeneous filaments in which tau proteins are locally stretched and have minimal large-domain structuration.
Translating MOF chemistry into supramolecular chemistry: soluble coordination nanofibers showing efficient photon upconversion
Authors: Hosoyamada Masanori , Yanai Nobuhiro , Okumura Keisuke , Uchihashi Takayuki , Kimizuka Nobuo
Published: April 2018

Photon upconverting coordination nanofibers are constructed by extracting the structural motifs of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs).
Rh(ii)/phosphine-cocatalyzed synthesis of dithioketal derivatives from diazo compounds through simultaneous construction of two different C–S bonds
Authors: Rao Changqing , Mai Shaoyu , Song Qiuling
Published: April 2018

Rhodium(ii)/phosphine-cocatalyzed bis-sulfuration of α-diazocarbonyl compounds using thiosulfonates as the sulfenylating agent, which provided two sulfur-containing moieties, was developed via simultaneous inter- and intra-molecular C–S bond formation.
Electrochemical amphotericity and NIR absorption induced via the step-wise protonation of fused quinoxaline-tetrathiafulvalene-pyrroles
Authors: Park Jung Su , Tran Trang Thu , Kim Jongmin , Sessler Jonathan L.
Published: April 2018

We describe an effective approach to producing electrochemical amphoteric character and tuning optical properties.
Phase behaviours of a cationic surfactant in deep eutectic solvents: from micelles to lyotropic liquid crystals
Authors: Li Qintang , Wang Jiao , Lei Nana , Yan Minhao , Chen Xiao , Yue Xiu
Published: April 2018

Various aggregates, including micelles and the hexagonal, bicontinuous cubic and lamellar phases, are formed in deep eutectic solvents.
Vibrational satellites of C2S, C3S, and C4S: microwave spectral taxonomy as a stepping stone to the millimeter-wave band
Authors: McGuire Brett A. , Martin-Drumel Marie-Aline , Lee Kin Long Kelvin , Stanton John F. , Gottlieb Carl A. , McCarthy Michael C.
Published: April 2018

We present a microwave spectral taxonomy study of several hydrocarbon/CS2 discharge mixtures, in which more than 60 distinct species/vibrational states were detected and analyzed.
Theoretical determination of adsorption and ionisation energies of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons on water ice
Authors: Michoulier Eric , Ben Amor Nadia , Rapacioli Mathias , Noble Jennifer A. , Mascetti Joëlle , Toubin Céline , Simon Aude
Published: April 2018

Adsorption of interstellar PAHs on various ice geometries at the DFTB level: correlation between ionisation potentials and local structure. Example of pyrene adsorbed on Ih ice.
Mechanism of generation ofcloso-decaborato amidrazones. Intramolecular non-covalent B–H⋯π(Ph) interaction determines stabilization of the configuration around the amidrazone CN bond
Authors: Burianova Valeria K. , Bolotin Dmitrii S. , Mikherdov Alexander S. , Novikov Alexander S. , Mokolokolo Pennie Petrus , Roodt Andreas , Boyarskiy Vadim P. , Dar’in Dmitry , Krasavin Mikhail , Suslonov Vitalii V. , Zhdanov Andrey P. , Zhizhin Konstantin Yu. , Kuznetsov Nikolay T.
Published: April 2018

Three types of N(H)-nucleophiles were used to study the nucleophilic addition to the CN group of the 2-propanenitriliumcloso-decaborate cluster givingN-closo-decaborato amidrazones.
Carbon fibers as three-dimensional current collectors for silicon/reduced graphene oxide lithium ion battery anodes with improved rate performance and cycle life
Authors: Hsu Chun-Han , Lin Heng-Han , Liu Yi-Hung , Lin Hong-Ping
Published: April 2018

Carbon fibers as 3D current collectors for Si/r-GO lithium ion battery anodes with improved rate performance were achieved.
NIR-emitting benzothiazolium cyanines with an enhanced stokes shift for mitochondria imaging in live cells
Authors: Abeywickrama Chathura S. , Baumann Hannah J. , Alexander Nicolas , Shriver Leah P. , Konopka Michael , Pang Yi
Published: April 2018

A series of benzothiazolium-based hemicyanines (3a–3f) have been synthesized.
Stability and anti-inflammatory activity of the reduction-resistant curcumin analog, 2,6-dimethyl-curcumin
Authors: Joseph Akil I. , Edwards Rebecca L. , Luis Paula B. , Presley Sai Han , Porter Ned A. , Schneider Claus
Published: April 2018

Degradation products are linked to anti-inflammatory activity of 2,6-dimethyl-curcumin, a synthetic analog of curcumin stable against metabolic reductionin vivo.
Optimum catalyst selection over continuous and discrete process variables with a single droplet microfluidic reaction platform
Authors: Baumgartner Lorenz M. , Coley Connor W. , Reizman Brandon J. , Gao Kevin W. , Jensen Klavs F.
Published: April 2018

A mixed-integer nonlinear program (MINLP) algorithm to optimize catalyst turnover number (TON) and product yield by simultaneously modulating discrete variables—catalyst types—and continuous variables—temperature, residence time, and catalyst loading—was implemented and validated.
Soft electrodes combining hydrogel and liquid metal
Authors: Shay Tim , Velev Orlin D. , Dickey Michael D.
Published: April 2018

Liquid metals interfaced with hydrogels create soft, deformable electrodes for emerging wearable devices and soft robotics. This paper quantifies and tunes the impedance of this interface for use in ECG electrodes.
TiO2-pattern-modulated actuation of an agarose@CNT/agarose bilayer induced by light and humidity
Authors: Tu Yaqing , Yuan Jun , Lei Dan , Tan Huiyan , Wei Jiang , Huang Wei , Zhang Lidong
Published: April 2018

A smart bilayer of AG@CNT/AG composed of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and agarose (AG) is developed.
Energy transfer-based biodetection using optical nanomaterials
Authors: Chen Bing , Su Qianqian , Kong Wei , Wang Yuan , Shi Peng , Wang Feng
Published: April 2018

This review focuses on recent progress in the development of FRET probes and the applications of FRET-based sensing systems.
Tuning the structural and spectroscopic properties of donor–acceptor–donor oligomers via mutual X-bonding, H-bonding, and π–π interactions
Authors: Weldeab Asmerom O. , Steen April , Starkenburg Daken J. , Williams Jon Steven Dal , Abboud Khalil A. , Xue Jiangeng , Hammer Nathan I. , Castellano Ronald K. , Watkins Davita L.
Published: April 2018

Presented are design principles for the combinatory usage of HB, XB, and π–π interactions to enhance solid-state properties essential for optoelectronic device application.
Low-temperature fabrication of solution-processed hafnium oxide gate insulator films using a thermally purified solution process
Authors: Chung Jusung , Tak Young Jun , Kim Won-Gi , Park Jeong Woo , Kim Tae Sang , Lim Jun Hyung , Kim Hyun Jae
Published: April 2018

We proposed a simple method, a thermally purified solution (TPS) process, to lower the fabrication temperature of solution-processed hafnium oxide (HfOx) gate insulator films.
Organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite quantum dots for light-emitting diodes
Authors: Deng Wei , Fang Huan , Jin Xiangcheng , Zhang Xiujuan , Zhang Xiaohong , Jie Jiansheng
Published: April 2018

Organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite (CH3NH3PbX3, X = Cl, Br, or I) quantum dots with superior optoelectronic properties, including bright, colour-tunable, narrow-band photoluminescence and high photoluminescence quantum efficiency, are regarded as ideal materials for next-generation displays.
Efficient direction‐oriented search algorithm for block motion estimation
Authors: Shinde Tushar Shankar , Tiwari Anil Kumar
Published: April 2018

Motion estimation is one of the most crucial and time‐consuming component of video compression methods. However, much research has been done to improve computational complexity at the expense of the loss in performance of matching of blocks. A novel block matching algorithm named efficient direction‐oriented search is proposed. For this, the proposed algorithm firstly aims to dynamically switch between search regions based on the location of minimum distortion error. The search region dimension is also made adaptive for faster convergence. Then the computational complexity is reduced by using a proposed horizontal, vertical wings diamond search pattern and, two inclined hexagon‐shaped direction‐oriented search patterns. For further speed‐up in the search process, partial distortion calculations are employed. A method for optimal threshold value selection based on the distortion statistics for different partial distortion calculations is presented. The performance of the proposed algorithm is evaluated for different video sequences containing: slow, medium, fast, and directional motion content. The experimental results indicate that significant improvement in speed‐up can be achieved while maintaining the better peak signal‐to‐noise‐ratio performance. For directional motion video sequences, the proposed method even outperforms the full search algorithm with a significantly lower computational cost.
Structure‐based interpolation method for restoring the intensity of low‐density impulse noise
Authors: Sanaee Payam , Moallem Payman , Razzazi Farbod
Published: April 2018

Restoring pixel intensities corrupted by impulse noise has a great impact on the quality of decision‐based filters. In this study, the authors’ focus is on intensity restoration of noisy pixels. Their assumption is that noisy pixels are already established by the noise‐detection unit being considered as missing data in the image. When the interpolation methods are adopted in the noise‐restoration unit of the decision‐based filters for the purpose of restoring the intensities of the noisy pixels, two unexpected problems emerge – jagged edges and blurred details. These drawbacks can be ameliorated by using extra information obtained from structures in the images. Their structure‐based interpolation method comprises two steps: pre‐interpolation and post‐interpolation. In the first step (pre‐interpolation), the Sibson natural neighbour interpolation is adopted for the initial estimation of the intensities of all noisy pixels. In the second step (post‐interpolation, modifying‐phase), for each noisy pixel in pre‐interpolated image, the intensity variations of the pixels on two adjacent parallel lines, in different directions in their corresponding local windows, are analysed. Based on the obtained structural information, the intensity of the centred noisy pixel is restored more effectively. Since the structures in the images are far more noticeable at low‐density impulse noise, the proposed method works more efficiently in this case; however, a gradual improvement is achieved for high‐density impulse noise.
The environment of the SN-less GRB 111005A at z = 0.0133
Authors: Tanga M. , Krühler T. , Schady P. , Klose S. , Graham J. F. , Greiner J. , Kann D. A. , Nardini M.
Published: April 2018

The collapsar model has proved highly successful in explaining the properties of long γ-ray bursts (GRBs), with the most direct confirmation being the detection of a supernova (SN) coincident with the majority of nearby long GRBs. Within this model, a long GRB is produced by the core-collapse of a metal-poor, rapidly rotating, massive star. The detection of some long GRBs in metal-rich environments, and more fundamentally the three examples of long GRBs (GRB 060505, GRB 060614 and GRB 111005A) with no coincident SN detection down to very deep limits is in strong contention with theoretical expectations. In this paper we present MUSE observations of the host galaxy of GRB 111005A, which is the most recent and compelling example yet of a SN-less, long GRB. At z = 0.01326, GRB 111005A is the third closest GRB ever detected, and second closest long duration GRB, enabling the nearby environment to be studied at a resolution of 270 pc. From the analysis of the MUSE data cube, we find GRB 111005A to have occurred within a metal-rich environment with little signs of ongoing star formation. Spectral analysis at the position of the GRB indicates the presence of an old stellar population (τ ≥ 10 Myr), which limits the mass of the GRB progenitor to MZAMS < 15 M⊙, in direct conflict with the collapsar model. Our deep limits on the presence of any SN emission combined with the environmental conditions at the position of GRB 111005A necessitate the exploration of a novel long GRB formation mechanism that is unrelated to massive stars.
The XXL Survey
Authors: Butler Andrew , Huynh Minh , Delvecchio Ivan , Kapińska Anna , Ciliegi Paolo , Jurlin Nika , Delhaize Jacinta , Smolčić Vernesa , Desai Shantanu , Fotopoulou Sotiria , Lidman Chris , Pierre Marguerite , Plionis Manolis
Published: April 2018

The classification of the host galaxies of the radio sources in the 25 deg2 ultimate XMM extragalactic survey south field (XXL-S) is presented. XXL-S was surveyed at 2.1 GHz with the Australia Telescope Compact Array (ATCA) and is thus far the largest area radio survey conducted down to rms flux densities of σ ~ 41 μJy beam−1. Of the 6287 radio sources in XXL-S, 4758 (75.7%) were cross-matched to an optical counterpart using the likelihood ratio technique. There are 1110 spectroscopic redshifts and 3648 photometric redshifts available for the counterparts, of which 99.4% exist out to z ~ 4. A number of multiwavelength diagnostics, including X-ray luminosities, mid-infrared colours, spectral energy distribution fits, radio luminosities, and optical emission lines and colours, were used to classify the sources into three types: low-excitation radio galaxies (LERGs), high-excitation radio galaxies (HERGs), and star-forming galaxies (SFGs). The final sample contains 1729 LERGs (36.3%), 1159 radio-loud HERGs (24.4%), 296 radio-quiet HERGs (6.2%), 558 SFGs (11.7%), and 1016 unclassified sources (21.4%). The XXL-S sub-mJy radio source population is composed of ~75% active galactic nuclei and ~20% SFGs down to 0.2 mJy. The host galaxy properties of the HERGs in XXL-S are independent of the HERG selection, but the XXL-S LERG and SFG selection is, due to the low spectral coverage, largely determined by the known properties of those populations. Considering this caveat, the LERGs tend to exist in the most massive galaxies with low star formation rates and redder colours, whereas the HERGs and SFGs exist in galaxies of lower mass, higher star formation rates, and bluer colours. The fraction of blue host galaxies is higher for radio-quiet HERGs than for radio-loud HERGs. LERGs and radio-loud HERGs are found at all radio luminosities, but radio-loud HERGs tend to be more radio luminous than LERGs at a given redshift. These results are consistent with the emerging picture in which LERGs exist in the most massive quiescent galaxies typically found in clusters with hot X-ray halos and HERGs are associated with ongoing star formation in their host galaxies via the accretion of cold gas.
Very massive stars: a metallicity-dependent upper-mass limit, slow winds, and the self-enrichment of globular clusters
Authors: Vink Jorick S.
Published: April 2018

One of the key questions in Astrophysics concerns the issue of whether there exists an upper-mass limit to stars, and if so, what physical mechanism sets this limit? The answer to this question might also determine if the upper-mass limit is metallicity (Z) dependent. We argue that mass loss by radiation-driven winds mediated by line opacity is one of the prime candidates setting the upper-mass limit. We present mass-loss predictions (Ṁwind) from Monte Carlo radiative transfer models for relatively cool (Teff = 15 kK) very inflated massive stars (VMS) with large Eddington Γ factors in the mass range 102–103 M⊙ as a function of metallicity down to 1/100 Z∕Z⊙. We employed a hydrodynamic version of our Monte Carlo method, allowing us to predict the rate of mass loss (Ṁwind) and the terminal wind velocity (v∞) simultaneously. Interestingly, we find wind terminal velocities (v∞) that are low (100–500 km s−1) over a wide Z-range, and we propose that the slow winds from VMS are an important source of self-enrichment in globular clusters. We also find mass-loss rates (Ṁwind), exceeding the typical mass-accretion rate (Ṁaccr) of 10−3 M⊙ yr−1 during massive-star formation. We have expressed our mass-loss predictions as a function of mass and Z, finding log Ṁ = −9.13 + 2.1 log(M∕M⊙) + 0.74 log(Z∕Z⊙) (M⊙∕yr). Even if stellar winds do not directly halt & reverse mass accretion during star formation, if the most massive stars form by stellar mergers, stellar wind mass loss may dominate over the rate at which stellar growth takes place. We therefore argue that the upper-mass limit is effectively Z-dependent due to the nature of radiation-driven winds. This has dramatic consequences for the most luminous supernovae, gamma-ray bursts, and other black hole formation scenarios at different Cosmic epochs.
An epiperimetric inequality for the lower dimensional obstacle problem
Authors: Geraci Francesco
Published: April 2018

In this paper we give a proof of an epiperimetric inequality in the setting of the lower dimensional obstacle problem. The inequality was introduced by Weiss [Invent. Math.138(1999) 23–50) for the classical obstacle problem and has striking consequences concerning the regularity of the free-boundary. Our proof follows the approach of Focardi and Spadaro [Adv. Differ. Equ.21(2015) 153–200] which uses an homogeneity approach and aΓ-convergence analysis.
A national retrospective survey of anisakidosis in France (2010-2014): decreasing incidence, female predominance, and emerging allergic potential
Authors: Yera Hélène , Fréalle Émilie , Dutoit Emmanuel , Dupouy-Camet Jean
Published: April 2018

A retrospective survey was carried out over the years 2010–2014 among all Parasitology laboratories of University hospitals in France (ANOFEL network). The objective was to estimate the incidence of anisakidosis in France as new culinary habits such as the consumption of raw fish (sushi) or undercooked fish are increasing. A total of 37 cases of anisakidosis were notified by all French laboratories: 7 proven cases with evidence of a worm, 12 possible cases with abdominal pain after consumption of raw fish with detection of anti-Anisakis precipitins, and 18 allergic cases defined as acute manifestations after consumption of fish, associated with specific IgE for Anisakis. The median age of affected individuals was 42 years (11-69) and there was a significant predominance of women (67%). Compared with previous surveys in France, this study indicates a decrease in clinical cases of anisakidosis and illustrates the emerging allergic potential of anisakids.
Der Öffentliche Gesundheitsdienst – jetzt erst recht!
Authors: Teichert Ute
Published: April 2018

Liebe Kolleginnen und Kollegen, sehr geehrte Damen und Herren,

„Der Öffentliche Gesundheitsdienst – jetzt erst recht“ so lautet das diesjährige Motto des 68. Wissenschaftlichen Kongresses der Bundesverbände der Ärztinnen und Ärzte sowie Zahnärzte des Öffentlichen Gesundheitsdienstes und der Gesellschaft für Hygiene, Umweltmedizin und Präventivmedizin, der vom 26.–28. April 2018 in Osnabrück stattfindet.