bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heterochronic evolution explains novel body shape in a Triassic coelacanth from Switzerland
Authors: Cavin Lionel , Mennecart Bastien , Obrist Christian , Costeur Loïc , Furrer Heinz
Published: October 2017

A bizarre latimeriid coelacanth fish from the Middle Triassic of Switzerland shows skeletal features deviating from the uniform anatomy of coelacanths. The new form is closely related to a modern-looking coelacanth found in the same locality and differences between both are attributed to heterochronic evolution. Most of the modified osteological structures in the new coelacanth have their developmental origin in the skull/trunk interface region in the embryo. Change in the expression of developmental patterning genes, specifically the Pax1/9 genes, may explain a rapid evolution at the origin of the new coelacanth. This species broadens the morphological disparity range within the lineage of these ‘living fossils’ and exemplifies a case of rapid heterochronic evolution likely trigged by minor changes in gene expression.
Establishing the behavioural limits for countershaded camouflage
Authors: Penacchio Olivier , Harris Julie M. , Lovell P. George
Published: October 2017

Countershading is a ubiquitous patterning of animals whereby the side that typically faces the highest illumination is darker. When tuned to specific lighting conditions and body orientation with respect to the light field, countershading minimizes the gradient of light the body reflects by counterbalancing shadowing due to illumination, and has therefore classically been thought of as an adaptation for visual camouflage. However, whether and how crypsis degrades when body orientation with respect to the light field is non-optimal has never been studied. We tested the behavioural limits on body orientation for countershading to deliver effective visual camouflage. We asked human participants to detect a countershaded target in a simulated three-dimensional environment. The target was optimally coloured for crypsis in a reference orientation and was displayed at different orientations. Search performance dramatically improved for deviations beyond 15 degrees. Detection time was significantly shorter and accuracy significantly higher than when the target orientation matched the countershading pattern. This work demonstrates the importance of maintaining body orientation appropriate for the displayed camouflage pattern, suggesting a possible selective pressure for animals to orient themselves appropriately to enhance crypsis.
Genetic association study identified a 20 kb regulatory element in WLS associated with osteoporosis and bone mineral density in Han Chinese
Authors: Zhang Dangfeng , Ge Zhaohui , Ma Xin , Zhi Liqiang , Zhang Yunzhi , Wu Xueyuan , Yao Shuxin , Ma Wei
Published: October 2017

Previous studies have linked the WNT pathway and human skeleton formation; therefore, genes related to WNT might contribute to the onset and development of osteoporosis. In this study, we investigated the potential genetic association of WLS, which encodes an important mediator in the WNT pathway, with osteoporosis and its related quantitative traits in a sample of 6,620 individuals from Han Chinese population. A two-stage approach, with a discovery stage with 859 cases and 1,690 controls and a validation stage with 1,039 cases and 3,032 controls, was applied in the study. Forty SNPs were genotyped in the discovery stage. The intronic SNP rs2566752 was identified to be significantly associated with osteoporosis (ORdiscovery = 0.78, Pdiscovery = 3.73 × 10−5; ORvalidation = 0.80, Pvalidation = 1.96 × 10−5). Two SNPs surrounding rs2566752 (in addition to this SNP itself) were identified to be associated with bone mineral density. In addition, we have identified a 20 kb peak region of H3K27Ac histone mark enrichment between rs2772304 and rs2566752. Our study suggested that WLS is an important locus for osteoporosis and its related quantitative phenotypes in Han Chinese population. Additional sequencing-based studies are needed to investigate the genetic architecture of this regulatory region and its relationship with osteoporosis-related phenotypes.
Engraftment and morphological development of vascularized human iPS cell-derived 3D-cardiomyocyte tissue after xenotransplantation
Authors: Narita Hirokazu , Shima Fumiaki , Yokoyama Junya , Miyagawa Shigeru , Tsukamoto Yoshinari , Takamura Yasushi , Hiura Ayami , Fukumoto Ken , Chiba Tomohiro , Watanabe Seiji , Sawa Yoshiki , Akashi Mitsuru , Shimoda Hiroshi
Published: October 2017

One of the major challenges in cell-based cardiac regenerative medicine is the in vitro construction of three-dimensional (3D) tissues consisting of induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocyte (iPSC-CM) and a blood vascular network supplying nutrients and oxygen throughout the tissue after implantation. We have successfully built a vascularized iPSC-CM 3D-tissue using our validated cell manipulation technique. In order to evaluate an availability of the 3D-tissue as a biomaterial, functional morphology of the tissues was examined by light and transmission electron microscopy through their implantation into the rat infarcted heart. Before implantation, the tissues showed distinctive myofibrils within iPSC-CMs and capillary-like endothelial tubes, but their profiles were still like immature. In contrast, engraftment of the tissues to the rat heart led the iPSC-CMs and endothelial tubes into organization of cell organelles and junctional apparatuses and prompt development of capillary network harboring host blood supply, respectively. A number of capillaries in the implanted tissues were derived from host vascular bed, whereas the others were likely to be composed by fusion of host and implanted endothelial cells. Thus, our vascularized iPSC-CM 3D-tissues may be a useful regenerative paradigm which will require additional expanded and long-term studies.
Halogenated Chrysins Inhibit Dengue and Zika Virus Infectivity
Authors: Suroengrit Aphinya , Yuttithamnon Wanchalerm , Srivarangkul Pimsiri , Pankaew Saran , Kingkaew Krongkan , Chavasiri Warinthorn , Boonyasuppayakorn Siwaporn
Published: October 2017

Dengue virus infection is a global threat for which no specific treatment has not been established. Previous reports suggested chrysin and flavanone derivatives were potential flaviviral inhibitors. Here, we reported two halogenated chrysins, abbreviated FV13 and FV14, were highly potent against DENV1-4 and ZIKV infectivities with the FV13 EC50 values of 2.30 ± 1.04, 1.47 ± 0.86, 2.32 ± 1.46, 1.78 ± 0.72 and 1.65 ± 0.86 µM; and FV14 EC50 values of 2.30 ± 0.92, 2.19 ± 0.31, 1.02 ± 0.31, 1.29 ± 0.60 and 1.39 ± 0.11 µM, respectively. The CC50s to LLC/MK2 of FV13 and FV14 were 44.28 ± 2.90 μM, 42.51 ± 2.53 µM, respectively. Mechanism of drug action studies suggested multiple targets but maximal efficiency was achieved with early post infection treatment. This is the first report showing a high potency of halogenated chrysins for development as a broad-spectrum anti-flaviviral drug.
Pannexin1 links lymphatic function to lipid metabolism and atherosclerosis
Authors: Molica Filippo , Meens Merlijn J. , Dubrot Juan , Ehrlich Avigail , Roth Christel L. , Morel Sandrine , Pelli Graziano , Vinet Laurent , Braunersreuther Vincent , Ratib Osman , Chanson Marc , Hugues Stephanie , Scemes Eliana , Kwak Brenda R.
Published: October 2017

Extracellular ATP is a central signaling molecule in inflammatory responses. Pannexin1 (Panx1) channels release ATP in a controlled manner and have been implicated in various inflammatory pathologies, but their role in atherogenesis remains elusive. Using atherosclerosis-susceptible mouse models with ubiquitous deletion of Panx1 (Panx1
−/−
Apoe
−/−
) or with Cre recombinase-mediated deletion of Panx1 in endothelial cells and monocytes (Tie2-Cre
Tg
Panx1
fl/fl
Apoe
−/−
; Panx1
del
Apoe
−/−
), we identified a novel role for Panx1 in the lymphatic vasculature. Atherosclerotic lesion development in response to high-cholesterol diet was enhanced in Panx1
del
Apoe
−/−
mice, pointing to an atheroprotective role for Panx1 in endothelial and/or monocytic cells. Unexpectedly, atherogenesis was not changed in mice with ubiquitous Panx1 deletion, but Panx1
−/−
Apoe
−/−
mice displayed reduced body weight, serum cholesterol, triglycerides and free fatty acids, suggesting altered lipid metabolism in these Panx1-deficient mice. Mechanistically, Panx1
−/−
Apoe
−/−
mice showed impairment of lymphatic vessel function with decreased drainage of interstitial fluids and reduced dietary fat absorption. Thus, the detrimental effect of Panx1 deletion in endothelial and/or monocytic cells during atherogenesis is counterbalanced by an opposite effect resulting from impaired lymphatic function in ubiquitous Panx1-deficient mice. Collectively, our findings unveil a pivotal role of Panx1 in linking lymphatic function to lipid metabolism and atherosclerotic plaque development.
Automatic auditory and somatosensory brain responses in relation to cognitive abilities and physical fitness in older adults
Authors: Strömmer Juho M. , Põldver Nele , Waselius Tomi , Kirjavainen Ville , Järveläinen Saara , Björksten Sanni , Tarkka Ina M. , Astikainen Piia
Published: October 2017

In normal ageing, structural and functional changes in the brain lead to an altered processing of sensory stimuli and to changes in cognitive functions. The link between changes in sensory processing and cognition is not well understood, but physical fitness is suggested to be beneficial for both. We recorded event-related potentials to somatosensory and auditory stimuli in a passive change detection paradigm from 81 older and 38 young women and investigated their associations with cognitive performance. In older adults also associations to physical fitness were studied. The somatosensory mismatch response was attenuated in older adults and it associated with executive functions. Somatosensory P3a did not show group differences, but in older adults, it associated with physical fitness. Auditory N1 and P2 responses to repetitive stimuli were larger in amplitude in older than in young adults. There were no group differences in the auditory mismatch negativity, but it associated with working memory capacity in young but not in older adults. Our results indicate that in ageing, changes in stimulus encoding and deviance detection are observable in electrophysiological responses to task-irrelevant somatosensory and auditory stimuli, and the higher somatosensory response amplitudes are associated with better executive functions and physical fitness.
The recovery status from delayed graft function can predict long-term outcome after deceased donor kidney transplantation
Authors: Lee Juhan , Song Seung Hwan , Lee Jee Youn , Kim Deok Gie , Lee Jae Geun , Kim Beom Seok , Kim Myoung Soo , Huh Kyu Ha
Published: October 2017

The effect of delayed graft function (DGF) recovery on long-term graft outcome is unclear. The aim of this study was to examine the association of DGF recovery status with long-term outcome. We analyzed 385 recipients who underwent single kidney transplantation from brain-dead donors between 2004 and 2015. Patients were grouped according to renal function at 1 month post-transplantation: control (without DGF); recovered DGF (glomerular filtration rate [GFR] ≥ 30 mL/min/1.73 m2); and incompletely recovered DGF group (GFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m2). DGF occurred in 104 of 385 (27%) recipients. Of the DGF patients, 70 recovered from DGF and 34 incompletely recovered from DGF. Death-censored graft survival rates for control, recovered DGF, and incompletely recovered DGF groups were 95.3%, 94.7%, and 80.7%, respectively, at 5 years post-transplantation (P = 0.003). Incompletely recovered DGF was an independent risk factor for death-censored graft loss (HR = 3.410, 95%CI, 1.114-10.437). DGF was associated with increased risk for patient death regardless of DGF recovery status. Mean GFRs at 5 years were 65.5 ± 20.8, 62.2 ± 27.0, and 45.8 ± 15.4 mL/min/1.73 m2 for control, recovered, and incompletely recovered DGF groups, respectively (P < 0.001). Control group and recovered DGF patients had similar renal outcomes. However, DGF was associated with increased risk for patient death regardless of DGF recovery status.
Nucleotide and receptor density modulate binding of bacterial division FtsZ protein to ZipA containing lipid-coated microbeads
Authors: Sobrinos-Sanguino Marta , Zorrilla Silvia , Monterroso Begoña , Minton Allen P. , Rivas Germán
Published: October 2017

ZipA protein from Escherichia coli is one of the essential components of the division proto-ring that provides membrane tethering to the septation FtsZ protein. A sedimentation assay was used to measure the equilibrium binding of FtsZ-GDP and FtsZ-GTP to ZipA immobilized at controlled densities on the surface of microbeads coated with a phospholipid mixture resembling the composition of E. coli membrane. We found that for both nucleotide-bound species, the amount of bound FtsZ exceeds the monolayer capacity of the ZipA immobilized beads at high concentrations of free FtsZ. In the case of FtsZ-GDP, equilibrium binding does not appear to be saturable, whereas in the case of FtsZ-GTP equilibrium binding appears to be saturable. The difference between the two modes of binding is attributed to the difference between the composition of oligomers of free FtsZ-GDP and free FtsZ-GTP formed in solution.
The Staphylococcus aureus extracellular matrix protein (Emp) has a fibrous structure and binds to different extracellular matrices
Authors: Geraci Jennifer , Neubauer Svetlana , Pöllath Christine , Hansen Uwe , Rizzo Fabio , Krafft Christoph , Westermann Martin , Hussain Muzaffar , Peters Georg , Pletz Mathias W. , Löffler Bettina , Makarewicz Oliwia , Tuchscherr Lorena
Published: October 2017

The extracellular matrix protein Emp of Staphylococcus aureus is a secreted adhesin that mediates interactions between the bacterial surface and extracellular host structures. However, its structure and role in staphylococcal pathogenesis remain unknown. Using multidisciplinary approaches, including circular dichroism (CD) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, transmission electron (TEM) and immunogold transmission electron microscopy, functional ELISA assays and in silico techniques, we characterized the Emp protein. We demonstrated that Emp and its truncated forms bind to suprastructures in human skin, cartilage or bone, among which binding activity seems to be higher for skin compounds. The binding domain is located in the C-terminal part of the protein. CD spectroscopy revealed high contents of β-sheets (39.58%) and natively disordered structures (41.2%), and TEM suggested a fibrous structure consisting of Emp polymers. The N-terminus seems to be essential for polymerization. Due to the uncommonly high histidine content, we suggest that Emp represents a novel type of histidine-rich protein sharing structural similarities to leucine-rich repeats proteins as predicted by the I-TASSER algorithm. These new findings suggest a role of Emp in infections of deeper tissue and open new possibilities for the development of novel therapeutic strategies.
A trade-off between cognitive and physical performance, with relative preservation of brain function
Authors: Longman Daniel , Stock Jay T. , Wells Jonathan C. K.
Published: October 2017

Debate surrounds the issue of how the large, metabolically expensive brains ofHomo sapienscan be energetically afforded. At the evolutionary level, decreased investment in muscularity, adiposity and the digestive tract allow for a larger brain. Developmentally, high neo-natal adiposity and preferential distribution of resources to the brain provide an energetic buffer during times of environmental stress. Through an experimental design, we investigated the hypothesis of a trade-off involving brain and muscle at the acute level in humans. Mental performance was measured by a free-recall test, and physical performance by power output on an indoor rowing ergometer. Sixty-two male student rowers performed the two tests in isolation, and then again simultaneously. Paired samplest-tests revealed that both power output and mental performance reduced when tested together compared to in isolation (t(61) = 9.699, p < 0.001 andt(61) = 8.975, p < 0.001). Furthermore, the decrease in physical performance was greater than the decrease in mental performance (t(61) = −2.069, p = 0.043). This is the first investigation to demonstrate an acute level trade-off between these two functions, and provides support for the selfish brain hypothesis due to the relative preservation of cognitive function over physical power output. The underlying mechanism is unclear, and requires further work.
Membrane binding of the insertion sequence of Proteus vulgaris L-amino acid deaminase stabilizes protein structure and increases catalytic activity
Authors: Ju Yingchen , Liu Zhihong , Zhang Zizhen , Duan Lijun , Liu Qi , Gu Qiong , Zhang Cheng , Xu Jun , Zhou Huihao
Published: October 2017

Proteus vulgarisL-amino acid deaminase (pvLAAD) belongs to a class of bacterial membrane-bound LAADs mainly express in genusProteus,ProvidenciaandMorganella. These LAADs employ a non-cleavable N-terminal twin-arginine translocation (Tat) peptide to transport across membrane and bind to bacterial surface. Recent studies revealed that a hydrophobic insertion sequence (INS) in these LAADs also interacts with bacterial membrane. However, the functional significance of INS-membrane interaction is not clear. In this study, we made site-directed mutagenesis on the surface-exposed hydrophobic residues ofpvLAAD INS, and we found that these mutations impaired the INS-membrane interaction but did not affectpvLAAD activity in the solution. We further found that when cell membrane is present, the catalytic activity can be increased by 8~10 folds for wild-type but not INS-mutatedpvLAAD, indicating that the INS-membrane interaction is necessary for increasing activity ofpvLAAD. Molecular dynamic (MD) simulations suggested that INS is flexible in the solution, and its conformational dynamics could lead to substrate channel distortion. Circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy experiments indicated that bacterial membrane was able to maintain the conformation of INS. Our study suggests the function of the membrane binding of INS is to stabilizepvLAAD structure and increase its catalytic activity.
Contrasting glacier responses to recent climate change in high-mountain Asia
Authors: Sakai Akiko , Fujita Koji
Published: October 2017

Recent studies of Asian glaciers have shown that glaciers in eastern Karakoram and West Kunlun have been slightly gaining mass while those in nearby Jammu Kashmir and Himalayas are losing mass, at rates of more than 0.5 m w.e.yr−1 and about 0.3 m w.e.yr−1, respectively. Two possible explanations have been proposed for this difference in glacier behaviour: spatial heterogeneity in climate change (climatic forcing) or differing glacier responses to climate change (glacier response). However, neither explanation has strong supporting evidence. Here, we examine the glacial response by calculating the mass-balance sensitivity to temperature change in high-mountain Asia. In support of the glacier-response explanation, we find a strong correlation between observed glacier surface-elevation changes and mass-balance sensitivity of glaciers. The high coefficient of determination (R2 = 0.61) suggests that spatially heterogeneous mass-balance sensitivity has more explanatory power than regionally different climate change for the recent contrasting glacier fluctuations in the high mountain Asia.
A simple technique to design microfluidic devices for system integration
Authors: Yang Mimi X. , Wang Benjamin , Hu Xiaolin , Wong H.-S. Philip
Published: October 2017

Microfluidic channel bonded directly to an integrated circuits chip, leaving a portion of the chip exposed for electrical probing.
Applications of particulate oxygen-generating substances (POGS) in the bioartificial pancreas
Authors: McQuilling John P. , Sittadjody Sivanandane , Pendergraft Samuel , Farney Alan C. , Opara Emmanuel C.
Published: October 2017

In this work, sodium percarbonate and calcium peroxide were utilized as an oxygen source to improve islet viability and functionality.
Unique alternating peptide–peptoid copolymers from dipeptides via a Ugi reaction in water
Authors: Al Samad A. , De Winter J. , Gerbaux P. , Jérôme C. , Debuigne A.
Published: October 2017

Unprecedented alternating poly(peptide-alt-peptoid) copolymers are prepared in a single step from dipeptides, aldehydes and isocyanidesviaa Ugi reaction in water.
2,2′-Biphen[n]arenes (n = 4–8): one-step, high-yield synthesis, and host–guest properties
Authors: Dai Lu , Ding Zhi-Jun , Cui Lei , Li Jian , Jia Xueshun , Li Chunju
Published: October 2017

A new family of supramolecular macrocycles, 2,2′-biphen[n]arenes (n = 4–8), has been synthesized through a single-step reaction with a yield of 51%.
Effect of precursor concentration on size evolution of iron oxide nanoparticles
Authors: Sharifi Dehsari Hamed , Halda Ribeiro Anielen , Ersöz Bora , Tremel Wolfgang , Jakob Gerhard , Asadi Kamal
Published: October 2017

Changing the precursor concentration to tune the iron-oxide nanoparticle size alters the surfactant/precursor ratio and leads to the observation of two size regimes.
Investigation of energy band alignments and interfacial properties of rutile NMO2/TiO2 (NM = Ru, Rh, Os, and Ir) by first-principles calculations
Authors: Yang Chen , Zhao Zong-Yan
Published: October 2017

By using DFT calculations, NMO2/TiO2 hetero-structures show upward band bending, forming an electron depletion layer. The strong internal electric field generated by interfacial electron transfer leads to an efficient separation of photo-generated carriers.
Intersegmental transfer of proteins between DNA regions in the presence of crowding
Authors: Krepel Dana , Levy Yaakov
Published: October 2017

Intersegmental transfer that involves direct relocation of a DNA-binding protein from one nonspecific DNA site to another was previously shown to contribute to speeding up the identification of the DNA target site.
Site-specific time-resolved FRET reveals local variations in the unfolding mechanism in an apparently two-state protein unfolding transition
Authors: Bhatia Sandhya , Krishnamoorthy G. , Udgaonkar Jayant B.
Published: October 2017

Using multi-site time-resolved FRET, it is shown that equilibrium unfolding of monellin is not only heterogeneous, but that the degree of non-cooperativity differs between the sole α-helix and different parts of the β-sheet.
Hydrogen bonds, and σ-hole and π-hole bonds – mechanisms protecting doublet and octet electron structures
Authors: Grabowski Sławomir J.
Published: October 2017

For various interactions electron charge shifts try to protect the former doublet or octet electronic structure of the Lewis acid centre.
Selective photocatalysis of lignin-inspired chemicals by integrating hybrid nanocatalysis in microfluidic reactors
Authors: Colmenares Juan Carlos , Varma Rajender S. , Nair Vaishakh
Published: October 2017

In an ideal symbiosis of nanophotocatalysis and microflow chemistry, this tutorial review delineates a micro-highway decorated with semiconductor-based photocatalytic thin layers for the selective transformations of lignin-based chemicals to high-value organic products.
A study of the Group 1 metal tetra-aza macrocyclic complexes [M(Me4cyclen)(L)]+ using electronic structure calculations
Authors: Bhakhoa Hanusha , Rhyman Lydia , Lee Edmond P. , Mok Daniel K. W. , Ramasami Ponnadurai , Dyke John M.
Published: October 2017

Metal-cyclen complexes have a number of important applications. In this work, the electronic structures and preparative conditions are investigated for some Group 1 metal (M), [M(Me4cyclen)L]+ complexes.
Metal fluoride nanotubes featuring square-planar building blocks in a high-pressure polymorph of AgF2
Authors: Grzelak A. , Gawraczyński J. , Jaroń T. , Kurzydłowski D. , Mazej Z. , Leszczyński P. J. , Prakapenka V. B. , Derzsi M. , Struzhkin V. V. , Grochala W.
Published: October 2017

AgF2compressed to 150 000 atm forms a unique polymorphic form consisting of the first metal fluoride nanotubes.
Unexpected formation of a μ-carbido diruthenium(iv) complex during the metalation of phthalocyanine with Ru3(CO)12 and its catalytic activity in carbene transfer reactions
Authors: Kroitor Andrey P. , Cailler Lucie P. , Martynov Alexander G. , Gorbunova Yulia G. , Tsivadze Aslan Yu. , Sorokin Alexander B.
Published: October 2017

Catalytic activity of novel μ-carbido Ru(iv) bisphthalocyaninate was firstly demonstrated by the olefin cyclopropanation and carbene insertion into N–H bonds.
Seasonal variation and risk assessment of PM2.5 and PM2.5–10 in the ambient air of Kenitra, Morocco
Authors: Tahri Mounia , Benchrif Abdelfettah , Bounakhla Moussa , Benyaich Fouad , Noack Yves
Published: October 2017

The seasonal and spatial variations of particulate matter (PM2.5–10 and PM2.5) and its chemical composition have been studied over a one-year (2007–2008) in Kenitra city, located in northern Morocco.
Enzymatic production of clickable and PEGylated recombinant polyhydroxyalkanoates
Authors: Vastano M. , Pellis A. , Immirzi B. , Dal Poggetto G. , Malinconico M. , Sannia G. , Guebitz G. M. , Pezzella C.
Published: October 2017

Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are microbial polyesters attracting great attention while further functionalisation could widen their applicability.
A base-free, ultrasound accelerated one-pot synthesis of 2-sulfonylquinolines in water
Authors: Xie Long-Yong , Li Yong-Jian , Qu Jie , Duan Yue , Hu Jue , Liu Kai-Jian , Cao Zhong , He Wei-Min
Published: October 2017

Without employing any base and organic solvent, an economical, practical and eco-friendly protocol has been developed for the ultrasound accelerated one-pot synthesis of various functionalized 2-sulfonylquinolines from easily accessible starting materials in water under open-air conditions.
Computational model of a direct current glow discharge used as an ambient desorption/ionization source for mass spectrometry
Authors: Ellis Wade C. , Spencer Ross L. , Reininger Charlotte , Farnsworth Paul B.
Published: October 2017

A new model of a plasma ionization source anchored by experimental data giving a comprehensive view of the discharge mechanism.
Characterization of Si atomic transitions using pulsed electric discharge and resonance-enhanced multiphoton ionization techniques
Authors: Owusu-Ansah Ebenezer , Cairns Edward , Shi Yujun
Published: October 2017

A pulsed high-voltage electric discharge jet coupled with mass-selective REMPI was used to characterize Si atomic transitions with increased sensitivity.
Determination of pore-scale hydrate phase equilibria in sediments using lab-on-a-chip technology
Authors: Almenningen Stian , Flatlandsmo Josef , Kovscek Anthony R. , Ersland Geir , Fernø Martin A.
Published: October 2017

We present an experimental protocol for fast determination of hydrate stability in porous media for a range of pressure and temperature conditions.
A novel family of homoleptic copper(i) complexes featuring disubstituted cyanamides: a combined synthetic, structural, and theoretical study
Authors: Melekhova Anna A. , Novikov Alexander S. , Panikorovskii Taras L. , Bokach Nadezhda A. , Kukushkin Vadim Yu.
Published: October 2017

Homoleptic copper(i) complexes featuring disubstituted cyanamides were obtained and characterized using experimental methods and their properties were studied theoretically.
A novel colorimetric sensor for sensitive determination of R-citalopram based on the plasmonic properties of silver nanoparticles
Authors: Tashkhourian Javad , Afsharinejad Mina
Published: October 2017

A simple and reliable colorimetric method for visual differentiation between the S-citalopram and R-citalopram enantiomers in aqueous solution based on the inherent chirality of silver nanoparticles as a colorimetric probe was presented.
Design, synthesis and photophysical studies of styryl-based push–pull fluorophores with remarkable solvatofluorochromism
Authors: Safir Filho Mauro , Fiorucci Sebastien , Martin Anthony R. , Benhida Rachid
Published: October 2017

A library of 20 styryl-based push–pull dyes derived from 6-amino substituted benzothiazoles were prepared by an efficient and practical synthetic route from low-cost starting materials.
Ionic liquid/metal–organic framework hybrid generated by ion-exchange reaction: synthesis and unique catalytic activity
Authors: Takashima Yohei , Yokoyama Mai , Horikoshi Atsuto , Sato Yasushi , Tsuruoka Takaaki , Akamatsu Kensuke
Published: October 2017

The catalytic activity of an ionic liquid was drastically changed by immobilization inside an MOF by ion-exchange reaction.
Photo-induced synthesis andin vitroantitumor activity of Fenestin A analogs
Authors: Zhao Lishuang , Zhang Hongyue , Cui Jianing , Zhao Meiqi , Wang Zhiqiang , Yue Qunfeng , Jin Yingxue
Published: October 2017

Two bioactive Fenestin A analogs were synthesized by photo-induced cyclization.
A comparative in vitro and in silico study of the biological potential and chemical fingerprints of Dorcycinum pentapyllum subsp. haussknechtii using three extraction procedures
Authors: Uysal Sengul , Aktumsek Abdurrahman , Picot Carene M. N. , Sahan Alime , Mollica Adriano , Zengin Gokhan , Fawzi Mahomoodally Mohamad
Published: October 2017

Ethyl acetate, methanol, and water extracts prepared by maceration, Soxhlet, and ultrasonication were profiled and studied usingin vitroandin silicomethodologies.
EGFR-targeting PLGA-PEG nanoparticles as a curcumin delivery system for breast cancer therapy
Authors: Jin Hua , Pi Jiang , Zhao Yue , Jiang Jinhuan , Li Ting , Zeng Xueyi , Yang Peihui , Evans Colin E. , Cai Jiye
Published: October 2017

The anti-cancer impact of naturally-occurring curcumin can be enhanced through its delivery bound to targeted nanoparticles.
A cryptophane-based “turn-on” 129Xe NMR biosensor for monitoring calmodulin
Authors: Riggle Brittany A. , Greenberg Mara L. , Wang Yanfei , Wissner Rebecca F. , Zemerov Serge D. , Petersson E. James , Dmochowski Ivan J.
Published: October 2017

A cryptophane–peptide conjugate identifies activated calmodulin in solution, with appearance of Xe-129 NMR signal.
Encapsulating surface-clean metal nanoparticles inside metal–organic frameworks for enhanced catalysis using a novel γ-ray radiation approach
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Cui Xiaoling , Yuan Wei , Yang Qihao , Liu Huarong , Xu Hangxun , Jiang Hai-Long
Published: October 2017

A facile, efficient and universal γ-radiation strategy has been developed to incorporate surface-clean metal nanoparticles into metal–organic frameworks exhibiting remarkable catalytic activity and stability.
Inkjet printed nanomaterial based flexible radio frequency identification (RFID) tag sensors for the internet of nano things
Authors: Singh Ravina , Singh Eric , Nalwa Hari Singh
Published: October 2017

The Internet of Things (IoT) has limitless possibilities for applications in the entire spectrum of our daily lives, from healthcare to automobiles to public safety.
Optically observed multiple inter-chain interactions in polyblend semiconducting polymer nanoparticles
Authors: Hashim Z. , Alomari S. , Alghamdi W. , Altuwirqi R. , Green M.
Published: October 2017

Tunable nanoparticle photoluminescence was observed in nanoparticles formed from a polyblend of F8BT, MEH-PPV, and CN-PPV. This phenomena was attributed to direct and indirect inter-chain interactions between the polymers within each nanoparticle.
Deep oxidative desulfurization catalyzed by (NH4)xH4−xPMo11VO40(x = 1, 2, 3, 4) using O2as an oxidant
Authors: Liao Xiaoyuan , Wu Di , Geng Baoyin , Lu Shuxiang , Yao Yue
Published: October 2017

NH4+doped PMoV composites catalytic materials are successfully prepared.
Lignin-derived carbon nanosheets for high-capacitance supercapacitors
Authors: Liu Wanshuang , Yao Yimin , Fu Ouli , Jiang Sihan , Fang Yucheng , Wei Yi , Lu Xuehong
Published: October 2017

We disclose a simple and eco-friendly method to prepare carbon nanosheets (CNSs) by freeze-casting of lignin aqueous dispersion followed by direct carbonization. These lignin-derived CNSs show high performances as electrodes in supercapacitors.
Rapid label-free visual detection of KRAS mutations using peptide nucleic acid and unmodified gold nanoparticles
Authors: Zhao Xihong , Lin Chii-Wann
Published: October 2017

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is among the most commonly diagnosed cancers worldwide.
Differentiating the impact of nitrogen chemical states on optical properties of nitrogen-doped graphene quantum dots
Authors: Pillar-Little Timothy , Kim Doo Young
Published: October 2017

The optical properties of top-down synthesized oxidized graphene quantum dots (ox-GQDs) and nitrogen-incorporating graphene quantum dots (N-GQDs) along a range of hydrothermal treatment temperatures were observed.
Feasibility of polyethylene film as both supporting material for transfer and target substrate for flexible strain sensor of CVD graphene grown on Cu foil
Authors: Cai Shuxian , Liu Xingfang , Huang Jianan , Liu Zhonghua
Published: October 2017

Facile utilization of polyethylene (PE) film as both the supporting material for graphene transfer from copper foil and the target substrate for flexible strain sensor preparation in a single route.
Temperature and rhodamine B sensing based on fluorescence intensity ratio of Er3+ upconversion emissions
Authors: Wu Jin L. , Cao Bao S. , Rino Luis , He Yang Y. , Feng Zhi Q. , Dong Bin
Published: October 2017

Fluorescence intensity ratio technique of upconversion emissions of Er3+ can be used for both temperature and RhB concentration sensing.
Self-assembled hybrid nanomaterials with alkaline protease and a variety of metal ions
Authors: Jing Muzi , Fei Xu , Ren Weifan , Tian Jing , Zhi Hui , Xu Longquan , Wang Xiuying , Wang Yi
Published: October 2017

We have synthesized two kinds of hierarchical flower-like hybrid nanomaterials with alkaline protease and metal ions by self-assembly method.
Tuning the physical properties of malleable and recyclable polyimine thermosets: the effect of solvent and monomer concentration
Authors: Zhu Chengpu , Xi Cally , Doro William , Wang Tianyi , Zhang Xin , Jin Yinghua , Zhang Wei
Published: October 2017

We report the effect of solvent choice and polymerization rate on the physical properties of polyimine based malleable thermosets.
Interactions of chemistry teachers with gifted students in a regular high-school chemistry classroom
Authors: Benny Naama , Blonder Ron
Published: October 2017

Regular high-school chemistry teachers view gifted students as one of several types of students in a regular (mixed-ability) classroom. Gifted students have a range of unique abilities that characterize their learning process: mostly they differ in three key learning aspects: their faster learning pace, increased depth of understanding, and special interests. If gifted students are to develop their abilities and potential, and learn optimally in a regular classroom, the teaching must be adjusted to meet their special needs. Chemistry high-school curricula have built-in potential to cater to the special needs of gifted students. Chemistry learning entails laboratory work and comprehension of abstract concepts. In the classroom, the interactions between teachers and students are core events that trigger other class events. In the present study the interactions between teachers and gifted students in a regular classroom, which are specific for chemistry teaching, were studied. Two general categories of interactions with gifted students were found to be unique to the chemistry classroom: (1) interactions involving laboratory work and (2) interactions involving the challenge of teaching chemistry content. We found that since gifted students master abstract chemistry concepts quickly and with minimum scaffolding, no interactions regarding this aspect were reported. Gifted students do not need all the instruction time teachers usually devote to explaining abstract concepts in chemistry, concepts that are considered difficult for other students. The present study indicates the essential need of enhancing chemistry teachers’ knowledge regarding teaching gifted students in the chemistry classroom. This includes knowledge about how gifted students learn in general, and its adaptation to the chemistry classroom and the chemistry laboratory according to academic and curricular needs of the gifted students.
Examining the role of protein structural dynamics in drug resistance inMycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Shaw Daniel J. , Hill Rachel E. , Simpson Niall , Husseini Fouad S. , Robb Kirsty , Greetham Gregory M. , Towrie Michael , Parker Anthony W. , Robinson David , Hirst Jonathan D. , Hoskisson Paul A. , Hunt Neil T.
Published: October 2017

2D-IR spectroscopy reveals a role for protein structural dynamics in antimicrobial-resistance.
One-pass selective conversion of syngas to para-xylene
Authors: Zhang Peipei , Tan Li , Yang Guohui , Tsubaki Noritatsu
Published: October 2017

We presented a promising hybrid catalyst, named Cr/Zn–Zn/Z5@S1, to effectively realize the one-pass selective conversion of syngas to para-xylene.
Bulk assembly of organic metal halide nanotubes
Authors: Lin Haoran , Zhou Chenkun , Tian Yu , Besara Tiglet , Neu Jennifer , Siegrist Theo , Zhou Yan , Bullock James , Schanze Kirk S. , Ming Wenmei , Du Mao-Hua , Ma Biwu
Published: October 2017

A single crystalline organic metal halide hybrid containing arrays of one-dimensional metal halide nanotubes is discovered for the first time.
New insights into the flow and microstructural relaxation behavior of biphasic cellulose nanocrystal dispersions from RheoSANS
Authors: Haywood Alexander D. , Weigandt Katie M. , Saha Partha , Noor Matthew , Green Micah J. , Davis Virginia A.
Published: October 2017

The combination of rheology and small angle neutron scattering enables new insights into shear induced changes in the order parameter of lyotropic cellulose nanocrystal dispersions; this technique has broad applicability to other lyotropic nanomaterial dispersions.
Microstructures and mechanics in the colloidal film drying process
Authors: Wang Mu , Brady John F.
Published: October 2017

Brownian dynamics simulations and continuum models reveal the rich structural and mechanical features of the colloidal film drying processes with constant velocity and constant normal stress interface movements.
Encapsulation of shear thickening fluid as an easy-to-apply impact-resistant material
Authors: Zhang He , Zhang Xin , Chen Qian , Li Xin , Wang Pengfei , Yang En-Hua , Duan Fei , Gong Xinglong , Zhang Zhong , Yang Jinglei
Published: October 2017

In this investigation, a hard-to-handle shear thickening fluid (STF) is successfully encapsulated for easy handling and re-processing.
Organic multi-electron redox couple-induced functionalization for enabling ultrahigh rate and cycling performances of supercapacitors
Authors: An Ning , Hu Zhongai , Wu Hongying , Yang Yuying , Lei Ziqiang , Dong Wenkui
Published: October 2017

Danthron (DT) with multi-electron redox centers as a novel organic electrochemically active material for supercapacitors has been decorated on reduced graphene oxide nanosheets (RGNs) via a facile one-step reflux method.
Large-scale fabrication of translucent, stretchable and durable superhydrophobic composite films
Authors: Wang Shanlin , Yu Xinquan , Zhang Youfa
Published: October 2017

Transplantable superhydrophobic films with comprehensive performance in translucence, thermal tolerance, stretchability, impact resistance, wear resistance, anti-corrosion, and self-cleaning.
A lithium–carbon nanotube composite for stable lithium anodes
Authors: Wang Yalong , Shen Yanbin , Du Zhaolong , Zhang Xiaofeng , Wang Ke , Zhang Haiyang , Kang Tuo , Guo Feng , Liu Chenghao , Wu Xiaodong , Lu Wei , Chen Liwei
Published: October 2017

Li metal has been considered as the ultimate anode material for high-density electrochemical energy storage technology because of its extremely high specific capacity (3860 mAh g−1), lowest redox potential, and ability to enable battery chemistries with lithium free cathode materials.
Bulbous gold–carbon nanodot hybrid nanoclusters for cancer therapy
Authors: Hasenöhrl Dominik H. , Saha Avishek , Strauss Volker , Wibmer Leonie , Klein Stefanie , Guldi Dirk M. , Hirsch Andreas
Published: October 2017

Carbon nanodots are used to stabilize gold-nanoclusters. Charge-transfer interactions between carbon nanodots and gold were detected by transient absorption spectroscopy.
Magnetically responsive biopolymeric multilayer films for local hyperthermia
Authors: Criado M. , Sanz B. , Goya G. F. , Mijangos C. , Hernández R.
Published: October 2017

Thermomagnetic polymer films (TMFs) proven as heating devices for in vitro magnetic hyperthermia.
Nanomaterials for transdermal drug delivery: beyond the state of the art of liposomal structures
Authors: Jijie Roxana , Barras Alexandre , Boukherroub Rabah , Szunerits Sabine
Published: October 2017

A wide range of biomedical materials have been proposed to meet the different needs for controlled oral or intravenous drug delivery.
Design of Yb3+ optical bandwidths by crystallographic modification of disordered calcium niobium gallium laser garnets
Authors: Serrano M. D. , Álvarez-Pérez J. O. , Zaldo C. , Sanz J. , Sobrados I. , Alonso J. A. , Cascales C. , Fernández-Díaz M. T. , Jezowski A.
Published: October 2017

The spectral contributions to the Yb3+ bandwidth in CNGG-type laser crystals have been disclosed by combining 6 K spectroscopy, knowledge of their crystal structures and CF modeling of Yb3+ energy levels.
Layer-controlled thinning of black phosphorus by an Ar ion beam
Authors: Park Jin Woo , Jang Sung Kyu , Kang Dong Ho , Kim Doo San , Jeon Min Hwan , Lee Won Oh , Kim Ki Seok , Lee Sung Joo , Park Jin-Hong , Kim Kyong Nam , Yeom Geun Young
Published: October 2017

BP thinning was carried out using a monoenergetic Ar+ ion beam and the BP could be thinned without damaging the surface.
Messier 81’s Planck view versus its halo mapping
Authors: Gurzadyan V. G. , De Paolis F. , Nucita A. A. , Kashin A. L. , Amekhyan A. , Sargsyan S. , Yegorian G. , Qadir A. , Ingrosso G. , Jetzer Ph. , Vetrugno D.
Published: October 2017

This paper is a follow-up of a previous paper about the M 82 galaxy and its halo based on Planck observations. As in the case of M 82, a substantial north-south and east-west temperature asymmetry is also found for the M 81 galaxy, extending up to galactocentric distances of about 1.5°. The temperature asymmetry is almost frequency independent and can be interpreted as a Doppler-induced effect related to the M 81 halo rotation and/or triggered by the gravitational interaction of the galaxies within the M 81 Group. Along with the analogous study of several nearby edge-on spiral galaxies, the cosmic microwave background temperature asymmetry method thus is shown to act as a direct tool to map the galactic haloes and/or the intergalactic bridges, invisible in other bands or by other methods.
Efficient Method to Synthesize Benzhydrazides by In Situ
Oxidation/Coupling of Benzylic Alcohols with Azodicarboxylates
Authors: Azizi Kobra , Heydari Akbar
Published: October 2017

An efficient synthesis of benzhydrazides has been achieved through the direct acylation of azodicarboxylates with benzylic alcohols in moderate to high yields. The method represents the first practical approach to amides containing a hydrazine structural unit from benzylic alcohols.
Robotics and Reproductive Surgery
Authors: Waldman Ian , Gargiulo Antonio , Estes Stephanie
Published: October 2017

Robotic technology applied to laparoscopy augments the armamentarium of the reproductive specialist. Uterine leiomyomas, adenomyosis, endometriosis, adnexal masses, sterilization reversal, and fertility preservation techniques can all be addressed with a robotic surgery skill set. Additionally, new approaches with single site and natural orifice surgery will continue to maximize advanced opportunities for safe, effective, and cosmetically conscious (patient-centered) approaches to surgical care. Enhanced postoperative recovery pathways are fully adaptable to these robotic procedures and improve patient acceptability while controlling costs.
Best Practices in Counseling Young Female Cancer Survivors on Reproductive Health
Authors: Shliakhtsitsava Ksenya , Suresh Deepika , Hadnott Tracy , Su H.
Published: October 2017

In the United States, there are more than 400,000 girls and young women of reproductive-age with a history of cancer. Cancer treatments including surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and radiation can adversely impact their reproductive health. This review discusses infertility, contraception, and adverse pregnancy and child health outcomes in reproductive-aged cancer survivors, to increase awareness of these health risks for survivors and their health care providers. Infertility rates are modestly higher, while rates of using contraception and using highly effective contraceptive methods are lower in cancer survivors than in women without a history of cancer. During pregnancy, preterm births are also more common in survivors, resulting in more low-birth-weight offspring. Children of cancer survivors do not have more childhood cancers, birth defects, or chromosomal abnormalities than the general population, with the exception of families with hereditary cancer. Reproductive risks in survivors depend on cancer treatment exposures. For example, women with prior abdominal or pelvic radiation have additional risks of spontaneous abortions, small-for-gestational-age offspring and stillbirths, while those with prior chest radiation or anthracycline exposures have higher risks of cardiomyopathy. To help survivors achieve their reproductive goals safely, family planning and preconception counseling are central to survivorship care.
Does Postoperative Anticoagulation Therapy Lead to a Higher Success Rate for Microvascular Free-Tissue Transfer in the Head and Neck? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Liu Jinglong , Shi Quan , Yang Shuo , Liu Bo , Guo Bin , Xu Juan
Published: October 2017

Background Due to limited evidence, it is unclear whether postoperative anticoagulation therapy may lead to higher success rates for microvascular free-flap surgery in the head and neck. This review evaluated whether postoperative anticoagulation therapy can lead to a better result in head and neck reconstruction.

Methods PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were used to search for articles on the efficacy of postoperative antithrombotic therapy in free-flap transfer during head and neck reconstruction without language restrictions in February of 2017. A random-effects model was used to estimate the relative risk ratio (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The measured outcomes were flap loss, thromboembolic events, and hematoma formation.

Results A total of 2,048 free-flap surgery procedures in the head and neck were analyzed. There was no significant difference in the occurrence of flap loss and thromboembolic events in the anticoagulation group compared with the nonanticoagulation group (RR = 1.25, 95% CI = 0.85–1.81, p = 0.26; and RR = 1.05, 95% CI = 0.74–1.48, p = 0.79, respectively). The risk of hematoma was twice as high in the anticoagulation group than the nonanticoagulation group, which was statistically significant (RR = 2.02, 95% CI = 1.08–3.76, p = 0.03).

Conclusion The findings from our meta-analysis indicate that postoperative anticoagulation therapy barely decreases the risks of flap loss and thromboembolic events in free-flap surgery in the head and neck. However, it may significantly increase the risk of hematoma formation. Considering the limitations of this meta-analysis, additional high-quality, multicenter, prospective, randomized controlled studies are needed to confirm these findings.