bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-speed spinning disks on flexible threads
Authors: Zhao Zi-Long , Zhou Shiwei , Xu Shanqing , Feng Xi-Qiao , Xie Yi Min
Published: October 2017

A common spinning toy, called “buzzer”, consists of a perforated disk and flexible threads. Despite of its simple construction, a buzzer can effectively transfer translational motions into high-speed rotations. In the present work, we find that the disk can be spun by hand at an extremely high rotational speed, e.g., 200,000 rpm, which is much faster than the previously reported speed of any manually operated device. We explore, both experimentally and theoretically, the detailed mechanics and potential applications of such a thread–disk system. The theoretical prediction, validated by experimental measurements, can help design and optimize the system for, e.g., easier operation and faster rotation. Furthermore, we investigate the synchronized motion of multiple disks spinning on a string. Distinctly different twist waves can be realized by the multi-disk system, which could be exploited in the control of mechanical waves. Finally, we develop two types of manually-powered electric generators based on the thread–disk system. The high-speed rotation of the rotors enables a pulsed high current, which holds great promise for potential applications in, for instance, generating electricity and harvesting energy from ocean waves and other rhythmic translational motions.
Dynamic annealing in Ge studied by pulsed ion beams
Authors: Wallace J. B. , Bayu Aji L. B. , Shao L. , Kucheyev S. O.
Published: October 2017

The formation of radiation damage in Ge above room temperature is dominated by complex dynamic annealing processes, involving migration and interaction of ballistically-generated point defects. Here, we study the dynamics of radiation defects in Ge in the temperature range of 100–160 °C under pulsed beam irradiation with 500 keV Ar ions when the total ion fluence is split into a train of equal square pulses. By varying the passive portion of the beam duty cycle, we measure a characteristic time constant of dynamic annealing, which rapidly decreases from ~8 to 0.3 ms with increasing temperature. By varying the active portion of the beam duty cycle, we measure an effective diffusion length of ~38 nm at 110 °C. Results reveal a major change in the dominant dynamic annealing process at a critical transition temperature of ~130 °C. The two dominant dynamic annealing processes have an order of magnitude different activation energies of 0.13 and 1.3 eV.
Proteolytic signatures define unique thrombin-derived peptides present in human wound fluid in vivo
Authors: Saravanan Rathi , Adav Sunil S. , Choong Yeu Khai , van der Plas Mariena J. A. , Petrlova Jitka , Kjellström Sven , Sze Siu Kwan , Schmidtchen Artur
Published: October 2017

The disease burden of failing skin repair and non-healing ulcers is extensive. There is an unmet need for new diagnostic approaches to better predict healing activity and wound infection. Uncontrolled and excessive protease activity, of endogenous or bacterial origin, has been described as a major contributor to wound healing impairments. Proteolytic peptide patterns could therefore correlate and “report” healing activity and infection. This work describes a proof of principle delineating a strategy by which peptides from a selected protein, human thrombin, are detected and attributed to proteolytic actions. With a particular focus on thrombin-derived C-terminal peptides (TCP), we show that distinct peptide patterns are generatedin vitroby the human S1 peptidases human neutrophil elastase and cathepsin G, and the bacterial M4 peptidasesPseudomonas aeruginosaelastase andStaphylococcus aureusaureolysin, respectively. Corresponding peptide sequences were identified in wound fluids from acute and non-healing ulcers, and notably, one peptide, FYT21 (FYTHVFRLKKWIQKVIDQFGE), was only present in wound fluid from non-healing ulcers colonized byP.aeruginosaandS.aureus. Our result is a proof of principle pointing at the possibility of defining peptide biomarkers reporting distinct proteolytic activities, of potential implication for improved diagnosis of wound healing and infection.
Astrocyte calcium waves propagate proximally by gap junction and distally by extracellular diffusion of ATP released from volume-regulated anion channels
Authors: Fujii Yuki , Maekawa Shohei , Morita Mitsuhiro
Published: October 2017

Wave-like propagation of [Ca2+]i increases is a remarkable intercellular communication characteristic in astrocyte networks, intercalating neural circuits and vasculature. Mechanically-induced [Ca2+]i increases and their subsequent propagation to neighboring astrocytes in culture is a classical model of astrocyte calcium wave and is known to be mediated by gap junction and extracellular ATP, but the role of each pathway remains unclear. Pharmacologic analysis of time-dependent distribution of [Ca2+]i revealed three distinct [Ca2+]i increases, the largest being in stimulated cells independent of extracellular Ca2+ and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-induced Ca2+ release. In addition, persistent [Ca2+]i increases were found to propagate rapidly via gap junctions in the proximal region, and transient [Ca2+]i increases were found to propagate slowly via extracellular ATP in the distal region. Simultaneous imaging of astrocyte [Ca2+]i and extracellular ATP, the latter of which was measured by an ATP sniffing cell, revealed that ATP was released within the proximal region by volume-regulated anion channel in a [Ca2+]i independent manner. This detailed analysis of a classical model is the first to address the different contributions of two major pathways of calcium waves, gap junctions and extracellular ATP.
Effect of iodinated contrast media on renal perfusion: A randomized comparison study in pigs using quantitative contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS)
Authors: Lamby Philipp , Jung Friedrich , Graf Stefanie , Schellenberg Lotte , Falter Johannes , Platz-da-Silva Natascha , Schreml Stephan , Prantl Lukas , Franke Ralf P. , Jung Ernst M.
Published: October 2017

The administration of iodinated contrast media (CM) can cause microcirculatory disorder leading to acute renal dysfunction. In a prospective, randomized investigation two CM (Iodixanol vs Iopromide) were compared in 16 pigs. Each animal received 10 intra-aortal injections (5 ml Iodixanol or 4.32 ml Iopromide). Microcirculation was assessed using contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) directly on the kidney surface using time-to-peak (TTP) and blood-volume-analysis. Macroscopic observations were documented. Post mortem residual CM distribution in the kidneys was detected using X-ray. TTP was significantly prolonged over the descending vasa recta of the Iopromide group. This coincided with a visible marble-like pattern on the kidney surface occurring in 30 out of 80 Iopromide-injections but in 4 out of 80 Iodixanol-injections (p = 0.007). The blood volume over the entire kidney did not change after Iodixanol-application, but decreased by about 6.1% after Iopromide-application. The regional blood volume in the renal cortex showed a tendency to decrease by about 13.5% (p = 0.094) after Iodixanol-application, and clearly decreased by about 31.7% (p = 0.022) after Iopromide-application. The study revealed a consistent influence of repeated injections of two different CM on the kidney perfusion using three different imaging methods (CEUS analysis, macroscopic observation and X-ray analysis).
UHPLC-MS/MS determination of varietal thiol precursors in Sauvignon Blanc grapes
Authors: Vanzo Andreja , Janeš Lucija , Požgan Franc , Velikonja Bolta Špela , Sivilotti Paolo , Lisjak Klemen
Published: October 2017

Varietal thiol precursors in grapes are subject to metabolic changes during post-harvest treatments. Metabolic activity should therefore be limited after sampling to understand their biosynthesis in the berry and genetic regulation. In this study, berries were frozen in liquid nitrogen immediately after harvesting, transported in dry ice, stored briefly at −80 °C, cryo-milled and extracted without being thawed in cold methanol in a ratio of 1:4 (w/v). A UHPLC-MS/MS method for quantitative determination of the thiol precursors 3-S-glutathionylhexan-1-ol (G3MH), 3-S-cysteinylhexan-1-ol (Cys3MH), 4-S-glutathionyl-4-methylpentan-2-one (G4MMP) and 4-S-cysteinyl-4-methylpentan-2-one (Cys4MMP), glutathione, oxidized glutathione and L-methionine in grapes was developed. Reference material was provided through synthesis of precursors and their deuterium labelled analogues. The average thiol precursor content in grapes in 2013–15 was in the range 8–16 μg kg−1 for G3MH, 1–6 μg kg−1 for Cys3MH, 1–4 μg kg−1 for Cys4MMP and 0.3 μg kg−1 for G4MMP. In 2013 and 2014, the highest precursor content in mature Sauvignon Blanc grapes from vineyards located in Italy regarded G3MH, followed by Cys3MH, Cys4MMP and G4MMP. In 2015, G3MH was again the most abundant precursor, but followed by Cys4MMP, Cys3MH and G4MMP.
Healing of Preterm Ruptured Fetal Membranes
Authors: Mogami Haruta , Hari Kishore Annavarapu , Akgul Yucel , Word R. Ann
Published: October 2017

Preterm premature rupture of membrane (pPROM) is associated with 30–40% of preterm births. Infection is considered a leading cause of pPROM due to increased levels of proinflammatory cytokines in amniotic fluid. Only 30%, however, are positive for microbial organisms by amniotic fluid culture. Interestingly, in some pregnancies complicated by preterm premature rupture of membranes (pPROM), membranes heal spontaneously and pregnancy continues until term. Here, we investigated mechanisms of amnion healing. Using a preclinical mouse model, we found that small ruptures of the fetal membrane closed within 72 h whereas healing of large ruptures was only 40%. Small rupture induced transient upregulation of cytokines whereas large ruptures elicited sustained upregulation of proinflammatory cytokines in the fetal membranes. Fetal macrophages from amniotic fluid were recruited to the wounded amnion where macrophage adhesion molecules were highly expressed. Recruited macrophages released limited and well-localized amounts of IL-1β and TNF which facilitated epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and epithelial cell migration. Arg1 + macrophages dominated within 24 h. Migration and healing of the amnion mesenchymal compartment, however, remained compromised. These findings provide novel insights regarding unique healing mechanisms of amnion.
Lipopolysaccharide enters the rat brain by a lipoprotein-mediated transport mechanism in physiological conditions
Authors: Vargas-Caraveo Alejandra , Sayd Aline , Maus Sandra R. , Caso Javier R. , Madrigal José L. M. , García-Bueno Borja , Leza Juan C.
Published: October 2017

Physiologically, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is present in the bloodstream and can be bound to several proteins for its transport (i.e.) LPS binding protein (LBP) and plasma lipoproteins). LPS receptors CD14 and TLR-4 are constitutively expressed in the Central Nervous System (CNS). To our knowledge, LPS infiltration in CNS has not been clearly demonstrated. A naturalistic experiment with healthy rats was performed to investigate whether LPS is present with its receptors in brain. Immunofluorescences showed that lipid A and core LPS were present in circumventricular organs, choroid plexus, meningeal cells, astrocytes, tanycytes and endothelial cells. Co-localization of LPS regions with CD14/TLR-4 was found. The role of lipoprotein receptors (SR-BI, ApoER2 and LDLr) in the brain as targets for a LPS transport mechanism by plasma apolipoproteins (i.e. ApoAI) was studied. Co-localization of LPS regions with these lipoproteins markers was observed. Our results suggest that LPS infiltrates in the brain in physiological conditions, possibly, through a lipoprotein transport mechanism, and it is bound to its receptors in blood-brain interfaces.
Non-contact method to freely control the radiation patterns of antenna with multi-folded transformation optics
Authors: Madni Hamza Ahmad , Zheng Bin , Zhu Rongrong , Shen Lian , Chen Hongsheng , Xu Zhiwei , Dehdashti Shahram , Zhao Yaodong , Wang Huaping
Published: October 2017

In this paper, we propose to use multi-folded transformation optics method to design a non-contact illusion device that can distantly and freely manipulate the radiation behavior of antenna located at a certain distance and such manipulation is enabled by the use of mapped electromagnetic medium coated with the transformed medium. The proposed design aims to achieve the radiation pattern of our choice from the antenna that does not possess any electromagnetic medium. Based on this, the functionality of parabolic antenna is distantly achieved from the point source. We further extended our idea to array of antennas in which the proposed device distantly makes the linear array of antennas behave like a geometrically different array of antennas. Our work extends the concept of illusion optics for active scatterer that will be very helpful for future antenna design.
Pollinator-mediated selection on flowering phenology and floral display in a distylous herb Primula alpicola
Authors: Chen Lingling , Zhang Bo , Li Qingjun
Published: October 2017

The targets and causes of phenotypic selection are crucial to understanding evolutionary ecology. However, few studies have examined selection quantitatively from multiple sources on the same trait identified the agent of natural selection experimentally. Here we quantified phenotypic selection on traits, including flowering phenology and aspects of floral display via female fitness, in the distylous perennial herbPrimula alpicola. To determine the role of pollinators in generating selection effects on floral traits, we compared the phenotypic selection gradients in open-pollinated and hand-pollinated plants. Our results show that pollinator-mediated linear selection on flowering start and correlational selection on the number of flowers and scape height explains most of the net phenotypic selection on these traits suggesting pollinators played an important role in shaping floral diversity. We used path analysis and structural equation modeling (SEM) to examine how herbivores affected the relationship between floral traits and female fitness, but no significant selection was caused by seed predators. These results suggest pollinators, not herbivores maybe the significant agent of selection on flora traits.
Decadal Western Pacific Warm Pool Variability: A Centroid and Heat Content Study
Authors: Kidwell Autumn , Han Lu , Jo Young-Heon , Yan Xiao-Hai
Published: October 2017

We examine several characteristics of the Western Pacific Warm Pool (WP) in the past thirty years of mixed interannual variability and climate change. Our study presents the three-dimensional WP centroid (WPC) movement, WP heat content anomaly (HC) and WP volume (WPV) on interannual to decadal time scales. We show the statistically significant correlation between each parameter’s interannual anomaly and the NINO 3, NINO 3.4, NINO 4, SOI, and PDO indices. The longitudinal component of the WPC is most strongly correlated with NINO 4 (R = 0.78). The depth component of the WPC has the highest correlation (R = −0.6) with NINO3.4. The WPV and NINO4 have an R-Value of −0.65. HC has the highest correlation with NINO3.4 (R = −0.52). During the study period of 1982–2014, the non-linear trends, derived from ensemble empirical mode decomposition (EEMD), show that the WPV, WP depth and HC have all increased. The WPV has increased by 14% since 1982 and the HC has increased from −1 × 108 J/m2 in 1993 to 10 × 108 J/m2 in 2014. While the largest variances in the latitudinal and longitudinal WPC locations are associated with annual and seasonal timescales, the largest variances in the WPV and HC are due to the multi-decadal non-linear trend.
Different levels of glyphosate-resistant Lolium rigidum L. among major crops in southern Spain and France
Authors: Fernández-Moreno Pablo Tomás , Travlos Ilias , Brants Ivo , De Prado Rafael
Published: October 2017

Herbicides are the most effective tools for controlling almost 99% of weeds. However, herbicide resistance is a primary concern in modern agriculture. The characterization in new areas and elucidation of the mechanisms of resistance are of vital importance in maintaining the sustainability of herbicides, including glyphosate. Nine populations of Lolium rigidum, showing different response patterns, were characterized as being glyphosate resistant (GR). The wide range of values in fresh weight reduction, survival, shikimic acid and EPSPS enzyme activity indicates a different or a combination resistance mechanism. The Line-3 population resulted in minimum reduction of fresh weight and survival values with respect to the glyphosate-susceptible (GS) population, showing 16.05- and 17.90-fold higher values, respectively. There were significant differences in the 14C-glyphosate translocation between GR and GS populations. Moreover, there were differences among the nine GR populations, but they exhibited a reduction in the remaining glyphosate translocation in the treated leaf. The EPSPS gene sequence revealed a Pro-106-Ser substitution in four populations, which could be characterized as being GR with non-target-site and target-site resistance mechanisms. This complexity of several resistance mechanisms makes it necessary to develop long-term integrated weed management strategies to limit further resistance dispersal.
Single nucleotide polymorphisms in the ETS1 gene are associated with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies in a northern Chinese Han population
Authors: Chen Si , Wen Xiaoting , Li Liubing , Li Jing , Li Yuan , Wang Qian , Yuan Hui , Zhang Fengchun , Li Yongzhe
Published: October 2017

Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the ETS1 gene are associated with several auto-inflammatory diseases. In this study, we determined whether ETS1 gene polymorphisms confer susceptibility to idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs) in a northern Chinese Han population. DNA samples were collected from 1017 IIM patients: 363 PM cases and 654 DM cases. The results were compared with those of 1280 healthy controls. Five SNPs in the ETS1 region (rs7117932, rs6590330, rs4937362, rs10893845 and rs1128334) were assessed and genotyped using the Sequenom platform. Our data indicated that the rs7117932 alleles and genotypes are associated with DM and IIMs (P
c
 = 6.0 × 10−3 and P
c
 = 0.029; P
c
 = 0.013 and P
c
 = 0.019, respectively). We found a significantly greater percentage of DM and IIM patients with an A allele of rs6590330 than that in the control population (P
c
 = 0.033 and P
c
 = 0.013). Additionally, the rs6590330 genotype was associated with IIMs (P
c
 = 0.020). The percentages of rs7117932 and rs6590330 SNPs were significantly greater in DM and IIM patients with interstitial lung disease (ILD) (all P
c
 < 0.05). This is the first study to reveal that ETS1 polymorphisms are associated with IIMs alone and IIMs with ILD in a northern Chinese Han population.
Experimental demonstration of magnetoplasmon polariton at InSb(InAs)/dielectric interface for terahertz sensor application
Authors: Chochol Jan , Postava Kamil , Čada Michael , Pištora Jaromír
Published: October 2017

We experimentally demonstrate surface plasmon resonance (SPR) in the terahertz range in InSb and InAs. The surface plasmon is excited on the interface between a thin polymer film and the semiconductor using a silicon prism in Otto configuration. The low effective mass of InSb and InAs permits tuning of the SPR by an external magnetic field in the transversal configuration. The data show a good agreement with a model. Strong excitation of the surface plasmon is present in both materials, with a shifting of resonance position by more than 100 GHz for the field of 0.25 T, to both higher and lower energies with opposite orientation of the magnetic field. Applicability of the terahertz SPR sensor is discussed, along with modeled design for the Kretschmann configuration.
Impaired branched-chain amino acid metabolism may underlie the nonalcoholic fatty liver disease-like pathology of neonatal testosterone-treated female rats
Authors: Anzai Álvaro , Marcondes Rodrigo R. , Gonçalves Thiago H. , Carvalho Kátia C. , Simões Manuel J. , Garcia Natália , Soares José M. , Padmanabhan Vasantha , Baracat Edmund C. , da Silva Ismael D. C. G. , Maciel Gustavo A. R.
Published: October 2017

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is frequently associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), but the mechanisms involved in the development of NAFLD in PCOS are not well known. We investigated histological changes and metabolomic profile in the liver of rat models of PCOS phenotype induced by testosterone or estradiol. Two-day old female rats received sc injections of 1.25 mg testosterone propionate (Testos; n = 10), 0.5 mg estradiol benzoate (E2; n = 10), or vehicle (control group, CNT; n = 10). Animals were euthanized at 90–94 d of age and the liver was harvested for histological and metabolomic analyses. Findings showed only Testos group exhibited fatty liver morphology and higher levels of ketogenic and branched-chain amino acids (BCAA). Enrichment analysis showed effects of testosterone on BCAA degradation pathway and mitochondrial enzymes related to BCAA metabolism. Testos group also had a decreased liver fatty acid elongase 2 (ELOVL2) activity. E2 group had reduced lipid and acylcarnitine metabolites in the liver. Both groups had increased organic cation transporters (SLC22A4 and SLC16A9) activity. These findings indicate that neonatal testosterone treatment, but not estradiol, produces histological changes in female rat liver that mimic NAFLD with testosterone-treated rats showing impaired BCAA metabolism and dysfunctions in ELOVL2, SLC22A4 and SLC16A9 activity.
Insights into grapevine defense response against drought as revealed by biochemical, physiological and RNA-Seq analysis
Authors: Haider Muhammad Salman , Zhang Cheng , Kurjogi Mahantesh M. , Pervaiz Tariq , Zheng Ting , Zhang Chaobo , Lide Chen , Shangguan Lingfie , Fang Jinggui
Published: October 2017

Grapevine is an important and extensively grown fruit crop, which is severely hampered by drought worldwide. So, comprehending the impact of drought on grapevine genetic resources is necessary. In the present study, RNA-sequencing was executed using cDNA libraries constructed from both drought-stress and control plants. Results generated 12,451 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), out of which 8,021 genes were up-regulated, and 4,430 were down-regulated. Further physiological and biochemical investigations were also performed to validate the biological processes associated with the development of grapevine in response to drought stress. Results also revealed that decline in the rate of stomatal conductance, in turn, decrease the photosynthetic activity and CO2 assimilation in the grapevine leaves. Reactive oxygen species, including stress enzymes and their related proteins, and secondary metabolites were also activated in the present study. Likewise, various hormones also induced in response to drought stress. Overall, the present study concludes that these DEGs play both positive and negative roles in drought tolerance by regulating various biological pathways of grapevine. Nevertheless, our findings have provided valuable gene information for future studies of abiotic stress in grapevine and various other fruit crops.
Angiotensin-converting enzyme Ance is cooperatively regulated by Mad and Pannier in Drosophila imaginal discs
Authors: Kim Ah-Ram , Choi Eun-Bee , Kim Mi-Young , Choi Kwang-Wook
Published: October 2017

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) is an evolutionarily conserved peptidyl dipeptidase. Mammalian ACE converts angiotensin I to the active vasoconstrictor angiotensin II, thus playing a critical role for homeostasis of the renin-angiotensin system. In Drosophila, the ACE homolog Ance is expressed in specific regions of developing organs, but its regulatory mechanism has not been identified. Here we provide evidence that Ance expression is regulated by a combination of Mad and Pannier (Pnr) in imaginal discs. We demonstrate that Ance expression in eye and wing discs depends on Dpp signaling. The Mad binding site of Ance regulatory region is essential for Ance expression. Ance expression in imaginal discs is also regulated by the GATA family transcription factor Pnr. Pnr directly regulates Ance expression by binding to a GATA site of Ance enhancer. In addition, Pnr and Mad physically and genetically interact. Ance null mutants are morphologically normal but show genetic interaction with dpp mutants. Furthermore, we show that human SMAD2 and GATA4 physically interact and ACE expression in HEK293 cells is regulated by SMAD2 and GATA4. Taken together, this study reveals a cooperative mechanism of Ance regulation by Mad and Pnr. Our data also suggest a conserved transcriptional regulation of human ACE.
Lubricin binds cartilage proteins, cartilage oligomeric matrix protein, fibronectin and collagen II at the cartilage surface
Authors: Flowers Sarah A. , Zieba Agata , Örnros Jessica , Jin Chunsheng , Rolfson Ola , Björkman Lena I. , Eisler Thomas , Kalamajski Sebastian , Kamali-Moghaddam Masood , Karlsson Niclas G.
Published: October 2017

Lubricin, a heavily O-glycosylated protein, is essential for boundary lubrication of articular cartilage. Strong surface adherence of lubricin is required given the extreme force it must withstand. Disulfide bound complexes of lubricin and cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) have recently been identified in arthritic synovial fluid suggesting they may be lost from the cartilage surface in osteoarthritis and inflammatory arthritis. This investigation was undertaken to localise COMP-lubricin complexes within cartilage and investigate if other cartilage proteins are involved in anchoring lubricin to the joint. Immunohistochemical analysis of human cartilage biopsies showed lubricin and COMP co-localise to the cartilage surface. COMP knockout mice, however, presented with a lubricin layer on the articular cartilage leading to the further investigation of additional lubricin binding mechanisms. Proximity ligation assays (PLA) on human cartilage biopsies was used to localise additional lubricin binding partners and demonstrated that lubricin bound COMP, but also fibronectin and collagen II on the cartilage surface. Fibronectin and collagen II binding to lubricin was confirmed and characterised by solid phase binding assays with recombinant lubricin fragments. Overall, COMP, fibronectin and collagen II bind lubricin, exposed on the articular cartilage surface suggesting they may be involved in maintaining essential boundary lubrication.
Sandwich-structured C/C-SiC composites fabricated by electromagnetic-coupling chemical vapor infiltration
Authors: Hu Chenglong , Hong Wenhu , Xu Xiaojing , Tang Sufang , Du Shanyi , Cheng Hui-Ming
Published: October 2017

Carbon fiber (CF) reinforced carbon-silicon carbide (C/C-SiC) composites are one of the most promising lightweight materials for re-entry thermal protection, rocket nozzles and brake discs applications. In this paper, a novel sandwich-structured C/C-SiC composite, containing two exterior C/SiC layers, two gradient C/C-SiC layers and a C/C core, has been designed and fabricated by two-step electromagnetic-coupling chemical vapor infiltration (E-CVI) for a 20-hour deposition time. The cross-section morphologies, interface microstructures and SiC-matrix growth characteristics and compositions of the composites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), respectively. Microstructure characterization indicates that the SiC growth includes an initial amorphous SiC zone, a gradual crystallization of SiC and grow-up of nano-crystal, and a columnar grain region. The sandwich structure, rapid deposition rate and growth characteristics are attributed to the formation of thermal gradient and the establishment of electromagnetic field in the E-CVI process. The composite possesses low density of 1.84 g/cm3, high flexural strength of 325 MPa, and low linear ablation rate of 0.38 μm/s under exposure to 5-cycle oxyacetylene flame for 1000 s at ~1700 °C.
Rare occurrence of inflammatory bowel disease in a cohort of Han Chinese ankylosing spondylitis patients- a single institute study
Authors: Wang Chrong-Reen , Weng Chia-Tse , Lee Chung-Ta , Huang Kuo-Yuan , Hsu Sheng-Min , Liu Ming-Fei
Published: October 2017

Despite a high prevalence of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) in Han Chinese, the clinical experience remains very limited in the extra-articular presentation of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). A monocentric retrospective study was performed for the AS-associated IBD manifestation. This study analyzed AS patients fulfilling the 1984 revised New York diagnostic criteria, excluding those who had the onset of IBD before or concurrently with the diagnosis of AS, for their demographic, clinical, laboratory, radiological, pathological and medication data, particularly in the usage of anti-TNF monoclonal antibody. Among 988 AS patients with 19.8% female, 4 (0.4%) had the overt IBD presentation, one female and 3 male aged 28 to 47 years (38.8 ± 4.6), all ulcerative colitis with the characteristic histopathological findings. At the onset of colitis, all had a long-term disease duration of 10 to 25 years (17.5 ± 6.5) and high BASDAI 7.5 to 8.8 (8.2 ± 0.5) with the hip joint involvement. There were recurrent flares of colitis despite the treatment with corticosteroids and messalazopyrin/salazopyrin, and no relapses of IBD were observed for 6.0 ± 1.1 years after the adalimumab (ADA) therapy. In this retrospective cohort, we demonstrate the rarity of AS-associated IBD manifestation in Han Chinese with a beneficent effect from the ADA therapy.
Correlation between the Arrhenius crossover and the glass forming ability in metallic glasses
Authors: Wen Tongqi , Yao Wenjing , Wang Nan
Published: October 2017

The distinctive characteristic of the metallic glass-forming system is that the variation in viscosity with temperature obeys Vogel-Fulcher-Tammann (VFT) relationship in the undercooled state and Arrhenius relationship in the high temperature region. A dimensionless index has thus been proposed based on the Arrhenius-VFT crossover and the classical nucleation rate and growth rate theory to evaluate the glass-forming ability (GFA). The indicator G(a) is expressed with the combination of T
g
, the glass transition temperature, T
x
, the onset crystallization temperature, T
l
, the liquidus temperature, T0, the VFT temperature, and a a constant that could be determined according to the best correlation between G(a) and the critical cooling rate (R
c
). Compared with other GFA indexes, G(a) shows the best fit with R
c
, with the square of the correlation coefficient (R2) being 0.9238 when a = 0.15 for the 23 various alloy systems concerned about. Our results indicate the crossover in the viscosity variation has key effect on GFA and one can use the index G(a) to predict R
c
and GFA for different alloys effectively.
Enhanced terahertz fingerprint detection with ultrahigh sensitivity using the cavity defect modes
Authors: Shi Xiaomei , Han Zhanghua
Published: October 2017

We report a new scheme of realizing terahertz fingerprint detection with ultrahigh sensitivity. Instead of using the direct absorption of terahertz through a bare sample in the regular transmission scheme, a cavity mode resonating at the characteristic frequency of the sample is used and due to the high dependence of the cavity mode transmission on the material loss, an amplified transmission decaying is observed when the sample is loaded into the cavity. Furthermore, this scheme retains the feature of substance identification. A one-dimensional photonic crystal cavity is used as the example for the detection of α-lactose and an efficient detection of 10 nm α-lactose can be achieved, which corresponds to 1/57000 of the free space wavelength at the characteristic frequency of 0.529 THz, exhibiting a sensitivity over 400 times higher than the regular transmission method.
Pharmacological HIF-inhibition attenuates postoperative adhesion formation
Authors: Strowitzki Moritz J. , Ritter Alina S. , Radhakrishnan Praveen , Harnoss Jonathan M. , Opitz Vanessa M. , Biller Marvin , Wehrmann Julian , Keppler Ulrich , Scheer Jana , Wallwiener Markus , Schmidt Thomas , Ulrich Alexis , Schneider Martin
Published: October 2017

Peritoneal adhesions represent a common complication of abdominal surgery, and tissue hypoxia is a main determinant in adhesion formation. Reliable therapeutic options to reduce peritoneal adhesions are scarce. We investigated whether the formation of postsurgical adhesions can be affected by pharmacological interference with hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs). Mice were treated with a small molecule HIF-inhibitor, YC-1 (3-[5′-Hydroxymethyl-2′-furyl]-1-benzyl-indazole), or vehicle three days before and seven days after induction of peritoneal adhesions or, alternatively, once during induction of peritoneal adhesions. Pretreatment or single intraperitoneal lavage with YC-1 significantly reduced postoperative adhesion formation without prompting systemic adverse effects. Expression analyses of cytokines in peritoneal tissue and fluid and in vitro assays applying macrophages and peritoneal fibroblasts indicated that this effect was cooperatively mediated by various putatively HIF-1α-dependent mechanisms, comprising attenuated pro-inflammatory activation of macrophages, impaired recruitment and activation of peritoneal fibroblasts, mitigated epithelial-mesenchymal-transition (EMT), as well as enhanced fibrinolysis and impaired angiogenesis. Thus, this study identifies prevention of postsurgical peritoneal adhesions as a novel and promising field for the application of HIF inhibitors in clinical practice.
The best platinum regimens for chemo-naive incurable non-small cell lung cancer: network meta-analysis
Authors: Horita Nobuyuki , Nagashima Akimichi , Nakashima Kentaro , Shibata Yuji , Ito Kentaro , Goto Atsushi , Yamanaka Takeharu , Kaneko Takeshi
Published: October 2017

Platinum regimens still play a key role in chemotherapy for incurable non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Although guidelines list many platina regimens, the best regimens have not yet clarified. Electronic searches were carried out during November 26th-28th, 2016. We included individually randomized trials comparing two or more platinum regimes for incurable chemo-naive NSCLC published in English full papers. The platinum doublets should be either Cisplatin (CDDP), Carboplatin (CBDCA), or Nedaplatin (CDGP) plus one of the third-generation agents. The platinum triplet should be the doublet plus bevacizumab (BEV). The data were independently extracted and cross-checked by two investigators. We did not observed heterogeneity (whole network level Q = 28.9, df = 34, P = 0.717) among 59 pairwise comparisons from 45 studies with 16141 cases for the primary outcome, hazard ratio for overall survival (HRos). Using CBDCA + Paclitaxel (PTX) + BEV as a common comparator, CDGP + Docetaxel (DTX) (HRos = 0.98, 95%CI: 0.75–1.29, P = 0.884), CDDP + Tegafur gimeracil oteracil (S1) (HRos = 1.23, 95%CI: 0.96–1.57, P = 0.099), CBDCA + S1 (HRos = 1.23, 95%CI: 0.99–1.53, P = 0.062), and CDGP + Gemcitabine (GEM) (HRos = 1.24, 95%CI: 0.71–2.17, P = 0.45) did not have significantly poorer HRos. We suggest that these regimens as acceptable first-choice regimens.
Conjugation with L,L-diphenylalanine Self-Assemblies Enhances In Vitro Antitumor Activity of Phthalocyanine Photosensitizer
Authors: Souza Márcia I. , Prieto Tatiana , Rodrigues Tiago , Ferreira Fabio F. , Nascimento Francisco B. , Ribeiro Anderson O. , Silva Emerson R. , Giuntini Francesca , Alves Wendel A.
Published: October 2017

We present the synthesis and characterization of new peptide conjugates obtained by hierarchical co-assembly of L,L-diphenylalanine (FF) and zinc phthalocyanine complexes (ZnPc) in water. Self-assembly capabilities under defined conditions were investigated by scanning electron microscopy, and photophysical properties were evaluated using UV-Vis and fluorescence spectroscopy. AFM observations demonstrated that these ZnPcs form different highly ordered arrays on the crystalline faces of the FF microplates and that surface roughness significantly changes with the presence of differently substituted phthalocyanine units. XRD assays showed that the overall molecular packing of the conjugates is organized according to a hexagonal symmetry, with ZnPcs hosted in the interstices of the peptide phase. In vitro photodynamic studies were conducted on human breast cancer MCF-7 cells to investigate both cellular uptake and cytotoxicity. It was shown that FF self-assemblies are not toxicity and enhance accumulation of ZnPc in MCF-7 cells, improving apoptotic cell death upon irradiation. Our findings demonstrate enhancement of ZnPc antitumor efficiency by FF conjugates and a proof-of-concept for new photosensitizer carriers based on peptide conjugates.
Determination of agrochemical multi-residues in grapes. Identification and confirmation by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry
Authors: Lima Viviane G. , Campos Vânia P. , Santana Thiago C. , Santana Franciele O. , Costa Tadeu A. C.
Published: October 2017

The valley of the São Francisco river, northeastern Brazil, is home to the major mango and grape producers of Brazil, many of which already export to foreign markets.
High performance liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry method for the detection of salivary human neutrophil alpha defensins HNP1, HNP2, HNP3 and HNP4
Authors: Ashrafi Nadia , Lapthorn Cristian , Pullen Frank S. , Naclerio Fernando , Nielsen Birthe V.
Published: October 2017

Human neutrophil alpha defensins are antimicrobial peptides involved in the first line of defence against invading pathogens.
Storage and controlled release of fragrances maintaining a constant ratio of volatile compounds
Authors: Silina Y. E. , Tillotson J. R. , Manz A.
Published: October 2017

Controlled fragrance release at the right time, in the right place, depending on the context remains a technological challenge in the areas of psychophysiology, biochemistry and the entertainment industry.
Simultaneous determination of endogenous hormones and exogenous contaminants in infant formula powdered milk by salting-out assisted liquid–liquid extraction combined with solid-phase extraction purification and UPLC-MS/MS
Authors: Sun Ning , Guo Qi , Ou Jie-bin
Published: October 2017

A robust and rapid UPLC-MS/MS method was developed for the simultaneous determination of endogenous hormones and exogenous contaminants in infant formula powdered milk.
Quantitative analysis of cellulose acetate with a high degree of substitution by FTIR and its application
Authors: Fei Pengfei , Liao Liang , Cheng Bowen , Song Jun
Published: October 2017

The degree of substitution (DS) of highly acetylated cellulose acetate (CA) was quantitatively evaluated by FTIR.
An efficient, sensitive and fast microextraction method followed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry for the determination of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in bread samples
Authors: Rostampour Reza , Kamalabadi Mahdie , Kamankesh Marzieh , Hadian Zahra , Jazaeri Sahar , Mohammadi Abdorreza , Zolgharnein Javad
Published: October 2017

Microwave-assisted extraction and dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction (MAE–DLLME) coupled with GC-MS allowed the simultaneous determination of 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in bread samples.
The biodistribution, excretion and potential toxicity of different-sized Pd nanosheets in mice following oral and intraperitoneal administration
Authors: Chen Xiaolan , Li Jingchao , Huang Yizhuan , Wei Jingping , Sun Duo , Zheng Nanfeng
Published: October 2017

The biodistribution, excretion and potential toxicity of different-sized Pd nanosheets in mice following oral and intraperitoneal administration were systematically investigated.
Oxygen-insensitive phosphorescence in water from a Pt-doped supramolecular array
Authors: Straub Laura , González-Abradelo Darío , Strassert Cristian A.
Published: October 2017

A supramolecular array consisting of polyvinylpyridine decorated with adamantyl-substituted Pt(ii) complexes is described. The phosphorescence in aqueous environments is insensitive to diffusional quenching by molecular oxygen, due to the dense packing of the assembly.
Acid-etched layered double hydroxides with rich defects for enhancing the oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Zhou Peng , Wang Yanyong , Xie Chao , Chen Chen , Liu Hanwen , Chen Ru , Huo Jia , Wang Shuangyin
Published: October 2017

Simple acid etching generates multiple defects and promotes the exfoliation of CoFe LDHs for superior electrocatalytic OER performance.
Effect of buffer at nanoscale molecular recognition interfaces – electrostatic binding of biological polyanions
Authors: Rodrigo Ana C. , Laurini Erik , Vieira Vânia M. P. , Pricl Sabrina , Smith David K.
Published: October 2017

The electrostatic binding of polyanionic heparin by cationic receptors is highly dependent on the buffer in which the binding assay is carried out.
Epitaxial growth of single crystalline film scintillators based on the Pr3+ doped solid solution of Lu3Al5−xGaxO12 garnet
Authors: Gorbenko V. , Zorenko T. , Paprocki K. , Machlovanyi B. , Mazalon B. , Fedorov A. , Zhydachevskyy Ya. , Suchocki A. , Zorenko Yu.
Published: October 2017

Scintillating screens based on single crystalline films of Lu3Al5−xGaxO12:Pr garnet have been developed by the LPE method onto YAG substrates using BaO based flux.
Emerging La2O2CN2 matrix with controllable 3D morphology for photoluminescence applications
Authors: Bai Huayu , Song Yan , Li Dan , Ma Qianli , Dong Xiangting , Yu Wensheng , Yang Ying , Yu Hui , Wang Jinxian , Liu Guixia
Published: October 2017

Shape-controlled La2O2CN2 microstructures are synthesized and are used as hosts for doping with various RE3+ to realize different colored emissions.
A novel explanation for the increased conductivity in annealed Al-doped ZnO: an insight into migration of aluminum and displacement of zinc
Authors: Momot A. , Amini M. N. , Reekmans G. , Lamoen D. , Partoens B. , Slocombe D. R. , Elen K. , Adriaensens P. , Hardy A. , Van Bael M. K.
Published: October 2017

A combined experimental and first-principles study is performed to study the origin of conductivity in ZnO:Al nanoparticles synthesized under controlled conditions via a reflux route using benzylamine as a solvent.
Determination of helix orientations in a flexible DNA by multi-frequency EPR spectroscopy
Authors: Grytz C. M. , Kazemi S. , Marko A. , Cekan P. , Güntert P. , Sigurdsson S. Th. , Prisner T. F.
Published: October 2017

PELDOR experiments between two rigid spin labels allow determination of the conformational space of flexible DNA motifs.
Quantum and quasiclassical trajectory studies of rotational relaxation in Ar–N2+ collisions
Authors: Denis-Alpizar Otoniel , Unke Oliver T. , Bemish Raymond J. , Meuwly Markus
Published: October 2017

Quantum and classical study of the Ar–N2+ collision based on a new potential energy surface.
Repelling and ordering: the influence of poly(ethylene glycol) on protein adsorption
Authors: Bernhard Christoph , Roeters Steven J. , Franz Johannes , Weidner Tobias , Bonn Mischa , Gonella Grazia
Published: October 2017

Development of new materials for drug delivery and biosensing requires the fine-tuning of interfacial properties.
Revealing vilazodone's binding mechanism underlying its partial agonism to the 5-HT1A receptor in the treatment of major depressive disorder
Authors: Zheng Guoxun , Xue Weiwei , Yang Fengyuan , Zhang Yang , Chen Yuzong , Yao Xiaojun , Zhu Feng
Published: October 2017

The binding mechanism of vilazodone to 5-HT1A receptor was revealed via integrated computational methods. The identified binding mode will provide valuable information for medicinal chemists in designing and discovering novel SPARIs for MDD treatment.
LK peptide side chain dynamics at interfaces are independent of secondary structure
Authors: Donovan Michael A. , Lutz Helmut , Yimer Yeneneh Y. , Pfaendtner Jim , Bonn Mischa , Weidner Tobias
Published: October 2017

Real-time observation of the ultrafast motions of leucine side chains within model peptides at the water–air interface with representative folds – α-helix, 310-helix, β-strand – show that interfacial dynamics are mostly determined by surface interactions.
Asymmetric vanadium flow batteries: long lifespan via an anolyte overhang strategy
Authors: Mu Di , Zhao Yang , Yu Liwei , Liu Le , Xi Jingyu
Published: October 2017

An asymmetric electrolyte design concept is introduced to prolong the cycle life of VFBs, and an aVFB operating with a multiple adding strategy demonstrates a much longer lifespan.
Stereochemical effects on dynamics in two-component systems of gelators with perfluoroalkyl and alkyl chains as revealed by vibrational circular dichroism
Authors: Sato Hisako , Yajima Tomoko , Yamagishi Akihiko
Published: October 2017

The VCD method was applied to the gelation processes of chiral two-component gel systems.
Correction: Tailoring of optical properties of fluorescein using green synthesized gold nanoparticles
Authors: John Jisha , Thomas Lincy , George Nibu A. , Kurian Achamma , George Sajan D.
Published: October 2017

Correction for ‘Tailoring of optical properties of fluorescein using green synthesized gold nanoparticles’ by Jisha John et al., Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2015, 17, 15813–15821.
Insights into influence of nanoparticle size and metal–support interactions of Cu/ZnO catalysts on activity for furfural hydrogenation
Authors: Yang Xiaohai , Chen Hongmei , Meng Qingwei , Zheng Hongyan , Zhu Yulei , Li Yong Wang
Published: October 2017

Cu/ZnO catalysts primarily derived from aurichalcite with Cu/Zn = 0.4–1.1 (mol/mol) were prepared via “decreased pH” coprecipitation method and introduced in hydrogenation of furfural to furfuryl alcohol.
In situ investigation on Co-phase evolution and its performance for Fischer–Tropsch synthesis over Nb-promoted cobalt catalysts
Authors: Huang Jian , Qian Weixin , Zhang Haitao , Ying Weiyong
Published: October 2017

The influences of Nb on the Co-phase evolution, reducibility, chemisorption, and Fischer–Tropsch synthesis performance of catalysts were in situ researched.
Completely integrated wirelessly-powered photocatalyst-coated spheres as a novel means to perform heterogeneous photocatalytic reactions
Authors: Burek B. O. , Sutor A. , Bahnemann D. W. , Bloh J. Z.
Published: October 2017

Photocatalytic reactions can be efficiently driven by completely integrated photocatalyst–light emitter units which are wirelessly powered using resonant inductive coupling.
Transparent Nb-doped TiO2 films with the [001] preferred orientation for efficient photocatalytic oxidation performance
Authors: Kong Lina , Wang Changhua , Wan Fangxu , Li Lan , Zhang Xintong , Liu Yichun
Published: October 2017

[001]-Oriented Nb-TiO2 films via topotactic transformation from [100]-oriented Nb-TiN exhibit efficient photoactivity due to highly-reactive-facet exposure and increased surface-reactive sites.
Generation and transformation of a hemi-iminal-based metal–organic Fe(ii) structure obtained via subcomponent self-assembly in water
Authors: Markiewicz Grzegorz , Piechocki Miłosz , Walczak Anna , Połomska Ewa A. , Harrowfield Jack , Stefankiewicz Artur R.
Published: October 2017

Generation of hemi-iminal Fe(ii) species from subcomponent self-assembly in water.
Tethered cationic alkaline earth – olefin complexes
Authors: Roşca Sorin-Claudiu , Dorcet Vincent , Roisnel Thierry , Carpentier Jean-François , Sarazin Yann
Published: October 2017

The utilisation of a specifically tailored aminofluoroalcohol possessing both a methoxy and an olefin dangling side arms enables the preparation of the first examples of discrete calcium- and strontium-olefin cationic complexes.
A microporous MOF with a polar pore surface exhibiting excellent selective adsorption of CO2from CO2–N2and CO2–CH4gas mixtures with high CO2loading
Authors: Pal Arun , Chand Santanu , Elahi Syed Meheboob , Das Madhab C.
Published: October 2017

A microporous MOF (IITKGP-5) with polar pore surface exhibits highly selective sorption of CO2from flue gas as well as landfill gas mixture with IAST selectivity for 435.5 and 151.6 at 273 K/100 kPa respectively.