bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Smaller grafts do not imply early recurrence in recipients transplanted for hepatocellular carcinoma: A Chinese experience
Authors: Hu Zhenhua , Zhong Xun , Zhou Jie , Xiang Jie , Li Zhiwei , Zhang Min , Wu Jian , Jiang Wenshi , Zheng Shusen
Published: May 2016

Liver graft size has long been a critical issue in adult-to-adult living donor liver transplantation (LDLT). We analyzed China Liver Transplant Registry data (January 2007–December 2009), identifying 295 patients who underwent LDLT for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The recipients were divided into two groups: A, graft-to-recipient body weight ratio (GRWR) ≤ 0.8% (n = 56); B, GRWR > 0.8% (n = 239). We evaluated donor, recipient, and operative factors and analyzed survival outcome and the risk factors affecting overall and recurrence survival. As a result, the overall survival rates of group B were significantly higher than that of group A (p = 0.009); the corresponding tumor-free survival rates did not differ significantly (p = 0.133). The overall survival rates among the 151 recipients who met the Hangzhou criteria did not differ significantly (p = 0.953), nor did the corresponding tumor-free survival rates (p = 0.893). Multivariate analysis determined that GRWR was a significant risk factor for poor survival but not for early recurrence. In conclusion, small grafts may predict poorer survival outcome but do not indicate earlier HCC recurrence in recipients transplanted for HCC, and survival outcome with smaller grafts is merely acceptable in selected recipients.
Modification of Ni-Rich FCG NMC and NCA Cathodes by Atomic Layer Deposition: Preventing Surface Phase Transitions for High-Voltage Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Mohanty Debasish , Dahlberg Kevin , King David M. , David Lamuel A. , Sefat Athena S. , Wood David L. , Daniel Claus , Dhar Subhash , Mahajan Vishal , Lee Myongjai , Albano Fabio
Published: May 2016

The energy density of current lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) based on layered LiMO2 cathodes (M = Ni, Mn, Co: NMC; M = Ni, Co, Al: NCA) needs to be improved significantly in order to compete with internal combustion engines and allow for widespread implementation of electric vehicles (EVs). In this report, we show that atomic layer deposition (ALD) of titania (TiO2) and alumina (Al2O3) on Ni-rich FCG NMC and NCA active material particles could substantially improve LIB performance and allow for increased upper cutoff voltage (UCV) during charging, which delivers significantly increased specific energy utilization. Our results show that Al2O3 coating improved the NMC cycling performance by 40% and the NCA cycling performance by 34% at 1 C/−1 C with respectively 4.35 V and 4.4 V UCV in 2 Ah pouch cells. High resolution TEM/SAED structural characterization revealed that Al2O3 coatings prevented surface-initiated layered-to-spinel phase transitions in coated materials which were prevalent in uncoated materials. EIS confirmed that Al2O3-coated materials had significantly lower increase in the charge transfer component of impedance during cycling. The ability to mitigate degradation mechanisms for Ni-rich NMC and NCA illustrated in this report provides insight into a method to enable the performance of high-voltage LIBs.
Budding of Tiger Frog Virus (an Iridovirus) from HepG2 Cells via Three Ways Recruits the ESCRT Pathway
Authors: Mi Shu , Qin Xiao-Wei , Lin Yi-Fan , He Jian , Chen Nan-Nan , Liu Chang , Weng Shao-Ping , He Jian-Guo , Guo Chang-Jun
Published: May 2016

The cellular endosomal sorting complex required for transport (ESCRT) pathway is a multifunctional pathway involved in cell physiological activities. While the majority of RNA viruses bearing L-domains are known to hijack the ESCRT pathway to complete the budding process, the budding of large and complex enveloped DNA viruses, especially iridoviruses, has been rarely investigated. In the present study, we use the tiger frog virus (TFV) as a model to investigate whether iridoviruses are released from host cells through the ESCRT pathway. Inhibition of class E proteins and auxiliary proteins (VPS4A, VPS4B, Tsg101, Alix, and Nedd4.1) reduces extracellular virion production, which preliminarily indicates that the ESCRT pathway is involved in TFV release. The respective interactions of TFV VP031L, VP065L, VP093L with Alix, Tsg101, Nedd4 suggest the underlying molecular mechanism by which TFV gets access to the ESCRT pathway. Co-depletion of Alix, Tsg101, and Nedd4.1 induces a significant reduction in extracellular virion production, which implies the functional redundancy of host factors in TFV budding. Those results are first observation that iridovirus gains access to ESCRT pathway through three ways of interactions between viral proteins and host proteins. Our study provides a better understanding of the budding mechanism of enveloped DNA viruses.
Epigenetic inactivation of the CpG demethylase TET1 as a DNA methylation feedback loop in human cancers
Authors: Li Lili , Li Chen , Mao Haitao , Du Zhenfang , Chan Wai Yee , Murray Paul , Luo Bing , Chan Anthony TC , Mok Tony SK , Chan Francis KL , Ambinder Richard F , Tao Qian
Published: May 2016

Promoter CpG methylation is a fundamental regulatory process of gene expression. TET proteins are active CpG demethylases converting 5-methylcytosine to 5-hydroxymethylcytosine, with loss of 5 hmC as an epigenetic hallmark of cancers, indicating critical roles of TET proteins in epigenetic tumorigenesis. Through analysis of tumor methylomes, we discovered TET1 as a methylated target, and further confirmed its frequent downregulation/methylation in cell lines and primary tumors of multiple carcinomas and lymphomas, including nasopharyngeal, esophageal, gastric, colorectal, renal, breast and cervical carcinomas, as well as non-Hodgkin, Hodgkin and nasal natural killer/T-cell lymphomas, although all three TET family genes are ubiquitously expressed in normal tissues. Ectopic expression of TET1 catalytic domain suppressed colony formation and induced apoptosis of tumor cells of multiple tissue types, supporting its role as a broad bona fide tumor suppressor. Furthermore, TET1 catalytic domain possessed demethylase activity in cancer cells, being able to inhibit the CpG methylation of tumor suppressor gene (TSG) promoters and reactivate their expression, such as SLIT2, ZNF382 and HOXA9. As only infrequent mutations of TET1 have been reported, compared to TET2, epigenetic silencing therefore appears to be the dominant mechanism for TET1 inactivation in cancers, which also forms a feedback loop of CpG methylation during tumorigenesis.
Enhancing synchronization stability in a multi-area power grid
Authors: Wang Bing , Suzuki Hideyuki , Aihara Kazuyuki
Published: May 2016

Maintaining a synchronous state of generators is of central importance to the normal operation of power grids, in which many networks are generally interconnected. In order to understand the condition under which the stability can be optimized, it is important to relate network stability with feedback control strategies as well as network structure. Here, we present a stability analysis on a multi-area power grid by relating it with several control strategies and topological design of network structure. We clarify the minimal feedback gain in the self-feedback control, and build the optimal communication network for the local and global control strategies. Finally, we consider relationship between the interconnection pattern and the synchronization stability; by optimizing the network interlinks, the obtained network shows better synchronization stability than the original network does, in particular, at a high power demand. Our analysis shows that interlinks between spatially distant nodes will improve the synchronization stability. The results seem unfeasible to be implemented in real systems but provide a potential guide for the design of stable power systems.
SALM5 trans-synaptically interacts with LAR-RPTPs in a splicing-dependent manner to regulate synapse development
Authors: Choi Yeonsoo , Nam Jungyong , Whitcomb Daniel J. , Song Yoo Sung , Kim Doyoun , Jeon Sangmin , Um Ji Won , Lee Seong-Gyu , Woo Jooyeon , Kwon Seok-Kyu , Li Yan , Mah Won , Kim Ho Min , Ko Jaewon , Cho Kwangwook , Kim Eunjoon
Published: May 2016

Synaptogenic adhesion molecules play critical roles in synapse formation. SALM5/Lrfn5, a SALM/Lrfn family adhesion molecule implicated in autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) and schizophrenia, induces presynaptic differentiation in contacting axons, but its presynaptic ligand remains unknown. We found that SALM5 interacts with the Ig domains of LAR family receptor protein tyrosine phosphatases (LAR-RPTPs; LAR, PTPδ, and PTPσ). These interactions are strongly inhibited by the splice insert B in the Ig domain region of LAR-RPTPs, and mediate SALM5-dependent presynaptic differentiation in contacting axons. In addition, SALM5 regulates AMPA receptor-mediated synaptic transmission through mechanisms involving the interaction of postsynaptic SALM5 with presynaptic LAR-RPTPs. These results suggest that postsynaptic SALM5 promotes synapse development by trans-synaptically interacting with presynaptic LAR-RPTPs and is important for the regulation of excitatory synaptic strength.
An ultra-high density linkage map and QTL mapping for sex and growth-related traits of common carp (Cyprinus carpio)
Authors: Peng Wenzhu , Xu Jian , Zhang Yan , Feng Jianxin , Dong Chuanju , Jiang Likun , Feng Jingyan , Chen Baohua , Gong Yiwen , Chen Lin , Xu Peng
Published: May 2016

High density genetic linkage maps are essential for QTL fine mapping, comparative genomics and high quality genome sequence assembly. In this study, we constructed a high-density and high-resolution genetic linkage map with 28,194 SNP markers on 14,146 distinct loci for common carp based on high-throughput genotyping with the carp 250 K single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array in a mapping family. The genetic length of the consensus map was 10,595.94 cM with an average locus interval of 0.75 cM and an average marker interval of 0.38 cM. Comparative genomic analysis revealed high level of conserved syntenies between common carp and the closely related model species zebrafish and medaka. The genome scaffolds were anchored to the high-density linkage map, spanning 1,357 Mb of common carp reference genome. QTL mapping and association analysis identified 22 QTLs for growth-related traits and 7 QTLs for sex dimorphism. Candidate genes underlying growth-related traits were identified, including important regulators such as KISS2, IGF1, SMTLB, NPFFR1 and CPE. Candidate genes associated with sex dimorphism were also identified including 3KSR and DMRT2b. The high-density and high-resolution genetic linkage map provides an important tool for QTL fine mapping and positional cloning of economically important traits, and improving common carp genome assembly.
Label-free nonlinear optical microscopy detects early markers for osteogenic differentiation of human stem cells
Authors: Hofemeier Arne D. , Hachmeister Henning , Pilger Christian , Schürmann Matthias , Greiner Johannes F. W. , Nolte Lena , Sudhoff Holger , Kaltschmidt Christian , Huser Thomas , Kaltschmidt Barbara
Published: May 2016

Tissue engineering by stem cell differentiation is a novel treatment option for bone regeneration. Most approaches for the detection of osteogenic differentiation are invasive or destructive and not compatible with live cell analysis. Here, non-destructive and label-free approaches of Raman spectroscopy, coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) and second harmonic generation (SHG) microscopy were used to detect and image osteogenic differentiation of human neural crest-derived inferior turbinate stem cells (ITSCs). Combined CARS and SHG microscopy was able to detect markers of osteogenesis within 14 days after osteogenic induction. This process increased during continued differentiation. Furthermore, Raman spectroscopy showed significant increases of the PO43− symmetric stretch vibrations at 959 cm−1 assigned to calcium hydroxyapatite between days 14 and 21. Additionally, CARS microscopy was able to image calcium hydroxyapatite deposits within 14 days following osteogenic induction, which was confirmed by Alizarin Red-Staining and RT- PCR. Taken together, the multimodal label-free analysis methods Raman spectroscopy, CARS and SHG microscopy can monitor osteogenic differentiation of adult human stem cells into osteoblasts with high sensitivity and spatial resolution in three dimensions. Our findings suggest a great potential of these optical detection methods for clinical applications including in vivo observation of bone tissue–implant-interfaces or disease diagnosis.
The Magea gene cluster regulates male germ cell apoptosis without affecting the fertility in mice
Authors: Hou Siyuan , Xian Li , Shi Peiliang , Li Chaojun , Lin Zhaoyu , Gao Xiang
Published: May 2016

While apoptosis is essential for male germ cell development, improper activation of apoptosis in the testis can affect spermatogenesis and cause reproduction defects. Members of the MAGE-A (melanoma antigen family A) gene family are frequently clustered in mammalian genomes and are exclusively expressed in the testes of normal animals but abnormally activated in a wide variety of cancers. We investigated the potential roles of these genes in spermatogenesis by generating a mouse model with a 210-kb genomic deletion encompassing six members of the Magea gene cluster (Magea1, Magea2, Magea3, Magea5, Magea6 and Magea8). Male mice carrying the deletion displayed smaller testes from 2 months old with a marked increase in apoptotic germ cells in the first wave of spermatogenesis. Furthermore, we found that Magea genes prevented stress-induced spermatogenic apoptosis after N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU) treatment during the adult stage. Mechanistically, deletion of the Magea gene cluster resulted in a dramatic increase in apoptotic germ cells, predominantly spermatocytes, with activation of p53 and induction of Bax in the testes. These observations demonstrate that the Magea genes are crucial in maintaining normal testicular size and protecting germ cells from excessive apoptosis under genotoxic stress.
Long-term results of anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion with nano-hydroxyapatite/polyamide 66 strut for cervical spondylotic myelopathy
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Deng Xu , Jiang Dianming , Luo Xiaoji , Tang Ke , Zhao Zenghui , Zhong Weiyang , Lei Tao , Quan Zhengxue
Published: May 2016

To assess the long-term clinical and radiographic outcomes of anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion (ACCF) with a neotype nano-hydroxyapatite/polyamide 66 (n-HA/PA66) strut in the treatment of cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). Fifty patients with CSM who underwent 1- or 2-level ACCF with n-HA/PA66 struts were retrospectively investigated. With a mean follow-up of 79.6 months, the overall mean JOA score, VAS and cervical alignment were improved significantly. At last follow-up, the fusion rate was 98% and the subsidence rate of the n-HA/PA66 strut was 8%. The “radiolucent gap” at the interface between the n-HA/PA66 strut and the vertebra was further noted to evaluate the osteoconductivity and osseointegration of the strut and the incidence of it was 62% at the last follow-up. Three patients suffered symptomatic adjacent segment degeneration (ASD). No significant difference was detected in the outcomes between 1- and 2-level corpectomy at follow-ups. In conclusion, the satisfactory outcomes in this study indicated that the n-HA/PA66 strut was an effective graft for cervical reconstruction. Moreover, the osteoconductivity and osseointegration of the strut is still need to be optimized for future clinical application owing to the notably presence of “radiolucent gap” in present study.
Use of recombinant porcine β-defensin 2 as a medicated feed additive for weaned piglets
Authors: Peng Zixin , Wang Anru , Xie Linqi , Song Weiping , Wang Jie , Yin Zhe , Zhou Dongsheng , Li Fengqin
Published: May 2016

Post-weaning diarrhoea (PWD) in piglets is associated with colonization of the intestine with bacterial pathogens. In this study, we evaluated the use of recombinant porcine β-defensin 2 (rpBD2) as a medicated feed additive for weaned piglets. The crude extract from the culture supernatant of rpBD2-expressing Pichia pastoris was used as a medicated feed additive for weaned piglets. Dietary treatments included a positive control (basal diet + antibiotics, designated PC) and three different rpBD2 treatments without antibiotics (basal diet supplemented with 1, 5, or 15 g of crude rpBD2/kg basal diet, designated 1PD, 5PD and 15PD, respectively). Of all the treatments, 5PD had the greatest impact on the weaned piglets. It increased their body weight, average daily weight gain, average daily feed intake and intestinal villus height in the duodenum and jejunum and reduced the incidence of PWD. The diversity of the cecal digesta and mucosa microflora was compared between the weaned piglets in the PC and 5PD groups. Piglets treated with 5PD had lower diversity indices and fewer bacterial pathogens in their cecal digesta and mucosa than the PC group. Our results demonstrate that crude rpBD2 could provide an alternative to the traditional antibiotic feed additives given to weaned piglets.
P-wave Variability and Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Censi Federica , Corazza Ivan , Reggiani Elisa , Calcagnini Giovanni , Mattei Eugenio , Triventi Michele , Boriani Giuseppe
Published: May 2016

The analysis of P-wave template has been widely used to extract indices of Atrial Fibrillation (AF) risk stratification. The aim of this paper was to assess the potential of the analysis of the P-wave variability over time in patients suffering from atrial fibrillation. P-wave features extracted from P-wave template together with novel indices of P-wave variability have been estimated in a population of patients suffering from persistent AF and compared to those extracted from control subjects. We quantify the P-wave variability over time using three algorithms and we extracted three novel indices: one based on the cross-correlation coefficients among the P-waves (Cross-Correlation Index, CCI), one associated to variation in amplitude of the P-waves (Amplitude Dispersion Index, ADI), one sensible to the phase shift among P-waves (Warping Index, WI). The control group resulted to be characterized by shorter P-wave duration and by a less amount of fragmentation and variability, respect to AF patients. The parameter CCI shows the highest sensitivity (97.3%) and a good specificity (95%).
The decisive role of free water in determining homogenous ice nucleation behavior of aqueous solutions
Authors: Wang Qiang , Zhao Lishan , Li Chenxi , Cao Zexian
Published: May 2016

It is a challenging issue to quantitatively characterize how the solute and pressure affect the homogeneous ice nucleation in a supercooled solution. By measuring the glass transition behavior of solutions, a universal feature of water-content dependence of glass transition temperature is recognized, which can be used to quantify hydration water in solutions. The amount of free water can then be determined for water-rich solutions, whose mass fraction, Xf, is found to serve as a universal relevant parameter for characterizing the homogeneous ice nucleation temperature, the meting temperature of primary ice and even the water activity of solutions of electrolytes and smaller organic molecules. Moreover, the effects of hydrated solute and pressure on ice nucleation is comparable and the pressure, when properly scaled, can be incorporated into the universal parameter Xf. These results help establish the decisive role of free water in determining ice nucleation and other relevant properties of aqueous solutions.
Differential interactions of imatinib mesylate with the membrane skeletal protein spectrin and hemoglobin
Authors: Das Debashree , Pramanik Ushasi , Patra Malay , Banerjee Mousumi , Chakrabarti Abhijit
Published: May 2016

The anti-leukaemia drug imatinib has been shown to bind to spectrin, and to hemoglobin in its oxy-form with binding dissociation constants of 48 μM and 63 μM at 25 °C respectively.
Recent advances in thromboresistant and antimicrobial polymers for biomedical applications: just say yes to nitric oxide (NO)
Authors: Wo Yaqi , Brisbois Elizabeth J. , Bartlett Robert H. , Meyerhoff Mark E.
Published: May 2016

Potential biomedical applications of nitric oxide (NO) releasing polymers.
Cyano-decorated ligands: a powerful alternative to fluorination for tuning the photochemical properties of cyclometalated Ir(iii) complexes
Authors: Mills Isaac N. , Kagalwala Husain N. , Bernhard Stefan
Published: May 2016

Two bis-cyclometalated Ir(iii) photocatalysts were synthesized with nitrile moieties which imparted remarkable photophysical properties over conventional fluorinated ligands.
DNA templated synthesis of branched gold nanostructures with highly efficient near-infrared photothermal therapeutic effects
Authors: Song Jaejung , Hwang Sekyu , Park Seongmin , Kim Taeyoung , Im Kyuhyun , Hur Jaehyun , Nam Jutaek , Kim Sungjee , Park Nokyoung
Published: May 2016

Herein, we show that DNA nanostructures have great potential as templates for the synthesis of shape-controlled metal nanostructures.
Selective and reversible self-assembly of C60fullerene on a 9,10-bis(S-acetylthiomethyl)anthracene modified gold surface
Authors: Piotrowski P. , Pawłowska J. , Bilewicz R. , Kaim A.
Published: May 2016

Synthesized di-S-acetyl anthracene derivative deposited on gold surface allows for selective multi-cycle capture of C60fullerene by reversible forming well-ordered monolayers of C60fullerene–anthracene adduct according to Diels–Alder reaction.
Surface free energy tuning of supported mixed lipid layers
Authors: Risović Dubravko , Penezić Abra , Čadež Vida , Šegota Suzana , Gašparović Blaženka
Published: May 2016

The results of investigation of parameters influencing the surface free energy of supported mixed lipid layers and means for its wide range tuning enable wettability control and design of a more efficient host layers for various applications.
Numerical simulation of hot-spot effects in microwave heating due to the existence of strong microwave-absorbing media
Authors: Wang Wenlong , Wang Biao , Sun Jing , Mao Yanpeng , Zhao Xiqiang , Song Zhanlong
Published: May 2016

Hot spots exist and may trigger temperature gaps at the magnitude of several hundred degrees Celsius in certain microwave heating.
Effects of short-term exposure to linear anionic surfactants (SDBS, SLS and SDS) on anammox biomass activity
Authors: Qiao Sen , Zheng Nan , Tian Tian , Yu Cong , Zhou Jiti
Published: May 2016

This work demonstrates the feasibility of nitrogen removal from wastewater containing linear anionic surfactants, including sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate, sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium dodecyl sulfonate, by using the anammox process.
Quaternary alloy quantum dots with widely tunable emission – a versatile system to fabricate dual-emission nanocomposites for bio-imaging
Authors: Wang Jie , Deng Tao , Deng Dawei , Zhang Rong , Gu Yueqing , Zha Xiaoming
Published: May 2016

Highly luminescent Zn-I-III-VI-based QDs with widely composition-tuned PL emissions have been synthesized for multiscale biomedical optical imaging.
Fluorescence imaging for Fe3+ in Arabidopsis by using simple naphthalene-based ligands
Authors: Mun Gyuri , Jung Sung Ho , Ahn Ahreum , Lee Shim Sung , Choi Myong Yong , Kim Dong Hyeon , Kim Jae-Yean , Jung Jong Hwa
Published: May 2016

Naphthalene-based probes 1 and 1A were found to dramatically decrease fluorescence upon addition of Fe3+, but not with other metal ions. Furthermore, 1 and 1A displayed high fluorescence quenched-imaging for Fe3+ in Arabidopsis as well as nanofibruous films.
Chemically robust solution-processed indium zinc oxide thin film transistors fabricated by back channel wet-etched Mo electrodes
Authors: Kim Da Eun , Cho Sung Woon , Kim Bora , Shin Jae Hui , Kang Won Jun , Yun Myeong Gu , Beak Seung Ki , Cho Hyung Koun , Kim Yong-Hoon , Kim Yunseok
Published: May 2016

We designed a systematic strategy for a chemically robust solution-processed IZO thin film transistor with back channel wet-etched Mo electrodes, which showed superior electrical performance and uniformity.
Gold nanoparticle synthesis coupled to fluorescence turn-on for sensitive detection of formaldehyde using formaldehyde dehydrogenase
Authors: Akshath Uchangi Satyaprasad , Bhatt Praveena
Published: May 2016

Ultrasensitive detection of formaldehyde by coupling enzyme activity with GNP synthesis.
Layer-by-layer assembly of polyoxometalate–pyrene-decorated fluorescent microspheres for the suspension immunoassay of Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Ju Wen , Song Xiuling , Yan Gang , Xu Kun , Wang Juan , Yin Dehui , Li Li , Qu Xiaofeng , Li Yangguang , Li Juan
Published: May 2016

A new class of polyoxometalate–pyrene-decorated fluorescent microspheres prepared by a layer-by-layer self-assembly method were used in the suspension immunoassay technique to detectListeria monocytogenes.
Singularly continuous spectrum of a self-similar Laplacian on the half-line
Authors: Chen Joe P. , Teplyaev Alexander
Published: May 2016

We investigate the spectrum of the self-similar Laplacian, which generates the so-called “pq random walk” on the integer half-line ℤ+. Using the method of spectral decimation, we prove that the spectral type of the Laplacian is singularly continuous whenever p≠12. This serves as a toy model for generating singularly continuous spectrum, which can be generalized to more complicated settings. We hope it will provide more insight into Fibonacci-type and other weakly self-similar models.
Explicitly correlated second-order Møller-Plesset perturbation theory in a Divide-Expand-Consolidate (DEC) context
Authors: Wang Yang Min , Hättig Christof , Reine Simen , Valeev Edward , Kjærgaard Thomas , Kristensen Kasper
Published: May 2016

We present the DEC-RIMP2-F12 method where we have augmented the Divide Expand-Consolidate resolution-of-the-identity second-order Møller-Plesset perturbation theory method (DEC-RIMP2) [P. Baudin et al., J. Chem. Phys. 144, 054102 (2016)] with an explicitly correlated (F12) correction. The new method is linear-scaling, massively parallel, and it corrects for the basis set incompleteness error in an efficient manner. In addition, we observe that the F12 contribution decreases the domain error of the DEC-RIMP2 correlation energy by roughly an order of magnitude. An important feature of the DEC scheme is the inherent error control defined by a single parameter, and this feature is also retained for the DEC-RIMP2-F12 method. In this paper we present the working equations for the DEC-RIMP2-F12 method and proof of concept numerical results for a set of test molecules.
T
2-Filtered T2 − T2 Exchange NMR
Authors: d’Eurydice Marcel Nogueira , Montrazi Elton Tadeu , Fortulan Carlos Alberto , Bonagamba Tito José
Published: May 2016

This work introduces an alternative way to perform the T2 − T2 Exchange NMR experiment. Rather than varying the number of π pulses in the first CPMG cycle of the T2 − T2 Exchange NMR pulse sequence, as used to obtain the 2D correlation maps, it is fixed and small enough to act as a short T2-filter. By varying the storage time, a set of 1D measurements of T2 distributions can be obtained to reveal the effects of the migration dynamics combined with relaxation effects. This significantly reduces the required time to perform the experiment, allowing a more in-depth study of exchange dynamics and relaxation processes with improved signal-to-noise ratio. These aspects stand as basis of this novel experiment, T2-Filtered T2 − T2 Exchange NMR or simply T2 F-TREx.
Density functional study on the mechanism for the highly active palladium monolayer supported on titanium carbide for the oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Mao Jianjun , Li Shasha , Zhang Yanxing , Chu Xingli , Yang Zongxian
Published: May 2016

The adsorption, diffusion, and dissociation of O2 on the palladium monolayer supported on TiC(001) surface, MLPd/TiC(001), are investigated using ab initio density functional theory calculations. Strong adhesion of palladium monolayer to the TiC(001) support, accompanied by a modification of electronic structure of the supported palladium, is evidenced. Compared with Pt(111) surface, the MLPd/TiC(001) can enhance the adsorption of O2, leading to comparable dissociation barrier and a smaller diffusion barrier of O2. Whilst the adsorption strength of atomic O (the dissociation product of O2) on MLPd/TiC(001) is similar to that on the Pt(111) surface, possessing high mobility, our theoretical results indicate that MLPd/TiC(001) may serve as a good catalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction.
Tunable in-situ electro-polymerization of hydrogel films for microchip-based bioanalysis
Authors: Shi Nan , Ugaz Victor M.
Published: May 2016

Electro-polymerization phenomena have been previously investigated at the macroscale in the context of producing polymeric coatings over extended surface areas. But electrical actuation also offers exquisite local control of the polymerized films' position, morphology, and thickness, suggesting compelling advantages in microfluidic-based analysis systems. Here, we introduce a microfabricated platform incorporating arrays of individually addressable on-chip electrodes capable of generating discretely positioned electro-polymerized hydrogel films inside microchannels in timescales of ∼5 min. Sequential actuation of specific electrode pairs initiates localized propagation of anchored polyacrylamide gel films and permits directed control of their size, shape, and growth rate. In addition to precise positioning of hydrogel films, obstacles, and barriers within microchannel networks, our approach makes it possible to encapsulate macromolecules within the films during polymerization, suggesting utility in a host of areas including separations, sample purification, and immunoassays.
Soft chemical synthesis of silicon nanosheets and their applications
Authors: Nakano Hideyuki , Ikuno Takashi
Published: May 2016

Two-dimensional silicon nanomaterials are expected to show different properties from those of bulk silicon materials by virtue of surface functionalization and quantum size effects. Since facile fabrication processes of large area silicon nanosheets (SiNSs) are required for practical applications, a development of soft chemical synthesis route without using conventional vacuum processes is a challenging issue. We have recently succeeded to prepare SiNSs with sub-nanometer thicknesses by exfoliating layered silicon compounds, and they are found to be composed of crystalline single-atom-thick silicon layers. In this review, we present the synthesis and modification methods of SiNSs. These SiNSs have atomically flat and smooth surfaces due to dense coverage of organic moieties, and they are easily self-assembled in a concentrated state to form a regularly stacked structure. We have also characterized the electron transport properties and the electronic structures of SiNSs. Finally, the potential applications of these SiNSs and organic modified SiNSs are also reviewed.
DNA hydrogel microspheres and their potential applications for protein delivery and live cell monitoring
Authors: Kim Taeyoung , Park Seongmin , Lee Minhyuk , Baek Solhee , Lee Jong Bum , Park Nokyoung
Published: May 2016

Microfluidic devices have been extensively developed as methods for microscale materials fabrication. It has also been adopted for polymeric microsphere fabrication and in situ drug encapsulation. Here, we employed multi-inlet microfluidic channels for DNA hydrogel microsphere formation and in situ protein encapsulation. The release of encapsulated proteins from DNA hydrogels showed different profiles accordingly with the size of microspheres.
Inadvertent translocation of amphibians in the shipment of agricultural produce into New South Wales: its extent and conservation implications
Authors: W O'Dwyer Terence , A. Buttemer William , M. Priddel David
Published: May 2016

The recent global decline of amphibians has been as pronounced in Australia as anywhere else on earth. Although the exact causes of this decline are uncertain, the translocation of individuals between populations is likely to exacerbate the problem. Translocation has the potential to adversely affect recipient populations through increased competition, predation, the introduction of diseases and parasites, and by disruption to the integrity of local gene pools through hybridization. One avenue for human-assisted translocation of amphibians is through their inadvertent transportation in shipments of agricultural produce. It was found that at least 7 130 frogs per annum are translocated into New South Wales in shipments of bananas. Of these, no fewer than 5 044 are subsequently liberated at the point of destination, often deliberately into natural environments where local frog populations already exist. This broad-scale and widespread liberation of translocated frogs has the potential to adversely affect frog populations in New South Wales. We propose several strategies for reducing the conservation problems associated with the inadvertent translocation of wildlife in shipment of agricultural produce.
Arthropods on street trees: a food resource for wildlife
Authors: Bhullar Simrath , Majer Jonathan
Published: May 2016

As with most cities throughout the world, the Western Australian city of Perth is beautified with rows of street trees. Here, the choice of trees tends to be dictated by their hardiness and ease of cultivation (e.g., Queensland Box Lophostemon confertus), their perceived beauty (e.g., Lemon Scented Gum Eucalyptus citriodora) and the affiliation with species from regions where many of the settlers originated (e.g., London Plane Tree Platanus acerifolia). Evidence indicates that the abundance and diversity of arthropods on a tree species is, to a large extent, a reflection of the tree in recent geological history ? the more recent the arrival, the less arthropods are likely to occur on it (Southwood 1960, 1961). From work with native eucalypt species, Recher et al. (1996) have found that arthropod density and diversity differs markedly between tree species within an ecosystem, and this phenomenon flows through to the insectivorous birds which forage on these trees. Those species with high levels of arthropods, such as Narrow-leaved Ironbark E. crebra in New South Wales are visited by pardalotes, thornbills and weebills to a much greater extent than the co-dominant Grey Box E. moluccana (Recher et al. 1994).
The role of sexual reproduction in maintaining populations of Halophila decipiens: implications for the biodiversity and conservation of tropical seagrass ecosystems
Authors: Judson Kenworthy W.
Published: May 2016

In subtropical and tropical communities, seagrass species commonly range over an order of magnitude in size and biomass. This biodiversity corresponds with differences in the relative importance of sexual (seed production) and asexual (clonal growth) life history strategies in the maintenance of seagrass populations. Clonal growth and vegetative reproduction are important in maintaining populations of larger-bodied species. As size of species and degree of clonality decrease, the importance of sexual reproduction increases. World-wide, the smallest species in tropical seagrass ecosystems are represented by the most taxonomically diverse, sexually fecund genus, Halophila. A four-year study of the submarine light regime and seasonal growth cycles of Halophila decipiens and other seagrasses in the Indian River Lagoon, Florida, USA provides a comparative context in which to illustrate the relative importance of different life history strategies in tropical seagrass ecosystems world-wide. While sexual reproduction is critical for maintaining some geographically extensive small-bodied seagrass systems in disturbed and extreme environments, there is also evidence to suggest that the quantitative importance of sexual reproduction may be underestimated for larger, highly clonal species like Thalassia testudinum. Future efforts to conserve tropical seagrass ecosystems necessitates a more comprehensive understanding of the evolutionary consequences of sexual reproduction and a more quantitative evaluation of the population dynamics resulting from the sexual life history strategies of different species.
Seagrass management in Indian River Lagoon, Florida: dealing with issues of scale
Authors: W. Virnstein Robert
Published: May 2016

The major theme of this paper is that management of seagrass must deal with issues of geographic scale. Approaches at several scales are needed. Examples are drawn primarily from management programmes for the 250 km long Indian River Lagoon system on the south-east coast of Florida. The Lagoon has several attributes of spatial variation that require approaches at various scales (e.g., from 1:1 000 000 to 1:1). Risks and errors of scaling up and scaling down are described. For large-scale approaches, remote-sensing mapping methods are generally appropriate. In the Indian River Lagoon, true-colour aerial photographs. are typically taken every 2?3 years at 1 :24 000 scale. Such Lagoon-wide maps have fuzzy boundaries and cannot be scaled down to fine scale, but they can be scaled up. At large scale, seagrass restoration/protection targets (to a depth of 1.7 m) are reasonable, but are unreasonable at fine scale. For monitoring change within a bed or meadow at metre to 500 m scale, monitoring of fixed transects is a powerful tool. However, the technique has limited power for comparisons among beds, which requires multiple transects. To build a predictive model, a site-specific study examined the relationships among light, water quality, and seagrasses. The link between seagrass and water quality is made through a light attenuation model incorporating both water column and epiphytes. Extensive sampling is required to test the robustness of the model at all scales. No single scale is appropriate for all approaches, and no approach applies over all scales. If such considerations of scale are not incorporated, errors of measurement, inappropriate techniques for assessment, implementation of wrong solutions, and a lack of understanding of the system under study can result.
Seasonal variation in abundance and sex ratio of Grey Nurse (Sand Tiger) Sharks Carcharias taurus in northern New South Wales, Australia: a survey based on observations of recreational scuba divers
Authors: Parker Pamela , J. Bucher Daniel
Published: May 2016

The Grey Nurse or Sand Tiger Shark Carcharias taurus is a protected species in Australian waters. In order to gain an insight into this shark's migratory habits and relative abundance at popular recreational diving sites, a survey was conducted using the observations of recreational divers' in northern New South Wales coastal waters over 15 months from August 1996 to October 1997. The bulk of shark sightings were reported during seasons of low diver activity and when sea surface temperatures were around 20?21?C. The number of reported sightings in each month was adjusted for variations in diver activity (i.e., sampling effort) to give an index of shark abundance. More southerly sites experienced peak shark abundance from August to November 1996, whereas sharks were most common at more northerly sites from April to June 1997, suggesting either that the sharks were migrating northwards, or that seasonal movement into shallower waters was occurring later at the northern sites. The sex ratio of the population shifted from a majority of females in spring to a majority of males in autumn/winter at the northern sites, indicating that the movements of the sexes may differ. Management strategies for this species, such as providing adequate protection of habitat at critical localities and times, require more detailed knowledge of this shark's migratory pattern, and the timing of reproductive events.
Temperate Eucalypt Woodlands in Australia: Biology, Conservation, Management and Restoration
Authors: Landy John
Published: May 2016

TEMPERATE Eucalypt Woodlands in Australia provides a comprehensive account of the biology, conservation and management and rehabilitation of one of the most important broad-vegetation types in Australia. The book is divided into four sections, the distribution and status of woodlands, threats, processes and management, regeneration and repair and finally socio-economic issues. Chapters cover a wide range of issues including tree decline, the role of soil fungi, the impacts and opportunities of fuel wood extraction and the attitude of landholders to environmental issues. The characteristics and current status of the temperate woodlands in each state are separately covered in individual chapters. Contributions are included from many different authors and from sources across Australia and for the first time students, researchers or the general public can access information on this fascinating subject. Extensive bibliographies attached to each chapter will enable the reader to pursue topics in greater detail.
Testing for food limitation in reintroduced Hihi populations: contrasting results for two islands
Authors: P. Armstrong Doug , G. Ewen John
Published: May 2016

The Hihi Notiomystis cincta, a New Zealand honeyeater (Aves: Meliphagidae), became extinct everywhere except one offshore island following European colonization, Attempts to establish Hihi on additional islands in the 1980s had poor success, and this was attributed to food limitation. These islands had all been modified by human use, and had a lower diversity of natural carbohydrate (fruit and nectar) sources than the source island, particularly in winter. When Hihi were released on two additional islands, Mokoia and Tiritiri Matangi, we used supplementation experiments to test whether condition and survival of birds were limited by availability of carbohydrate food. Sugar water was provided on an on-off basis from autumn through spring in the year after the release. Birds were weighed at the beginning and end of fed periods, and survival for fed and unfed periods was estimated using mark-recapture analysis on sighting data. Armstrong and Perrott (2000) reported that supplementary feeding had no effect on condition or survival on Mokoia, and annual survival was about 40%, both in the year of the experiment and in subsequent years when food was supplied continuously. This paper reports contrasting results for Tiritiri Matangi. Supplementary feeding on Tiritiri Matangi increased both condition and survival, and overall survival was substantially higher than on Mokoia - 66% in the year of the experiment and 76% the following year when food was supplied continuously. It therefore appears that supplementary feeding can be used to improve survival of Hihi on Tiritiri Matangi, whereas survival is constrained to a low level by other factors on Mokoia. These results emphasize the value of habitat manipulation experiments for developing appropriate management strategies for reintroduced populations.
Ecological attributes and conservation of dasyurid marsupials in New South Wales, Australia
Authors: R. Dickman Christopher , Lunney Daniel , Matthews Alison
Published: May 2016

This paper outlines the status of dasyurid marsupials in New South Wales, Australia, and then compares the ecological attributes of threatened and non-threatened species. Of the 21 species recorded in the state since European settlement, eight are protected but not threatened, 10 are listed or proposed for listing as vulnerable or endangered, and three are presumed extinct. Status was not related to diet, habit or habitat. However, species weighing <35 g are less likely to be threatened than heavier species, while species occupying a single region are more likely to be threatened than species occurring in two or more regions. All vulnerable and endangered species occur at least partly in reserves and other areas of protected land, but are likely to be affected by one or more threatening processes. These processes differ regionally, with larger species (=175 g) being affected by a greater range of threats than very small species (<15 g). We propose a programme of survey, research, management and education to promote and sustain recoveries.
Abundance and decline of isolated trees in the agricultural landscapes of central New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Ozolins Amanda , Brack Cris , Freudenberger David
Published: May 2016

Prior to this study, isolated trees were largely isolated from research. This study has provided a methodology, rigorous assessment of isolated tree density and distribution, and identified the potential ecological, social and economic importance of isolated trees, in a relatively small, but probably typical area of the wheat-sheep zone of eastern Australia. The abundance and decline of isolated native trees was measured by line-intersect sampling in the highly fragmented agricultural landscapes of the mid-Lachlan Valley of central New South Wales, Australia. A total of 7 000 trees were sampled along 5 678 km of transect on 441 aerial photographs. An isolated tree was defined as having no neighbouring tree within 25 m. The density of trees outside of remnants patches is low (0.3/ha) and has generally declined by 20% since the 1960s. The 1990s density of isolated trees equates to 275 000 trees across 830 000 ha of agricultural land not occupied by remnant vegetation patches larger than about 10 ha. The density of isolated trees was found to vary with land use with consistently fewer trees in cultivated areas compared to areas with no traces of cultivation. The isolated trees that remain within the agricultural landscape are not uniformly scattered. They exist as widely spaced clusters of isolated trees with 50% of trees having a nearest neighbouring tree within 25-49 m and less than 10% of trees had a nearest neighbour within a distance class greater than 100 m. Compared to the 1960s, isolated trees are now more isolated - the nearest neighbour distance has increased. The mean diameter of isolated tree crowns has significantly increased from 15 m in the 1960s to 18 m in the 1990s. The total canopy cover of isolated trees from the 1990s samples was 0.8% of the total study area below 400 m asl. A reversal in isolated tree decline will only occur if trees are replanted, or existing trees fenced to promote regeneration. Otherwise, isolated trees are dieing relicts of 150 years of clearing and intensive agriculture. This is of concern considering that we do not fully understand their value. We speculate on some of the ecological, economic and social values of these trees.
Introduction to Conservation Genetics
Authors: Lim Leong
Published: May 2016

WITH regards to threatened species, section SA (a) reads: "Whether ... a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction."