bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Robustness of phonolexical representations relates to phonetic flexibility for difficult second language sound contrasts
Authors: LLOMPART MIQUEL , REINISCH EVA
Published: September 2018

Listening to speech entails adapting to vast amounts of variability in the signal. The present study examined the relationship between flexibility for adaptation in a second language (L2) and robustness of L2 phonolexical representations. Phonolexical encoding and phonetic flexibility for German learners of English were assessed by means of a lexical decision task containing nonwords with sound substitutions and a distributional learning task, respectively. Performance was analyzed for an easy (/i/-/ɪ/) and a difficult contrast (/ε/-/æ/, where /æ/ does not exist in German). Results showed that for /i/-/ɪ/ listeners were quite accurate in lexical decision, and distributional learning consistently triggered shifts in categorization. For /ε/-/æ/, lexical decision performance was poor but individual participants’ scores related to performance in distributional learning: the better learners were in their lexical decision, the smaller their categorization shift. This suggests that, for difficult L2 contrasts, rigidity at the phonetic level relates to better lexical performance.
Liminality as a dimension of the experience of living with terminal cancer
Authors: Willig Carla , Wirth Luisa
Published: September 2018

Objective

This paper is concerned with the phenomenology of death awareness within the context of being diagnosed with terminal cancer. The objective of the research presented here is to provide a deeper insight into terminally ill cancer patients’ engagement with their mortality.

Method

The analysis forms part of a wider project that involved conducting a metasynthesis of 23 phenomenological studies of the experience of living with the awareness of having terminal cancer published between 2011 and 2016.

Result

The metasynthesis identified four master themes that represent distinct experiential dimensions of living with terminal cancer. This paper focuses on one of these themes, liminality, to provide novel insights into the structure of death awareness whilst living with terminal cancer.

Significance of results

The results suggest that liminality describes an experiential space from within which terminal cancer patients encounter a new relationship with their existence. Liminality offers opportunities for both connection (e.g., with the natural world) as well as disconnection (e.g., from loved ones and others who still have a future) and therefore contains the potential for suffering and distress as well as for joy and a sense of fulfillment. This understanding of liminality can help healthcare professionals provide psychological support for this client group.
Assessing the Efficiency of Thermal Pressurization Using Natural Pseudotachylyte‐Bearing Rocks
Authors: Brantut Nicolas , Mitchell Thomas M.
Published: September 2018

The efficiency of thermal pressurization as a dynamic weakening mechanism relies on the thermal and hydraulic properties of the rocks forming the fault core. Here we assess the effectiveness of thermal pressurization by comparing predictions of temperature rise to field estimates based on pseudotachylyte‐bearing rocks. We measure hydraulic and transport properties of a suite of fault rocks (a healed cataclasite, an unhealed breccia, and the intact parent rock) from the pseudotachylyte‐bearing Gole Larghe fault in the Adamello batholith (Italy) and use them as inputs in numerical simulations of thermal pressurization. We find that the melting temperature can be reached only if damaged, unhealed rock properties are used. A tenfold increase in permeability or a fourfold increase in pore compressibility of the intact rock is required to achieve melting. Our results emphasize the importance of damage processes that strongly modify fault rock properties and dynamic weakening processes during earthquake propagation.
Mesoscale F Region Neutral Winds Associated With Quasi‐steady and Transient Nightside Auroral Forms
Authors: Zou Ying , Nishimura Yukitoshi , Lyons Larry , Conde Mark , Varney Roger , Angelopoulos Vassilis , Mende Stephen
Published: September 2018

High‐latitude neutral winds often circulate in a two‐cell pattern as driven by large‐scale auroral forcing. However, auroral forcing also occurs in various types of mesoscale forms (i.e., tens to hundreds of kilometers in space and a few to tens of minutes in time) and contains more energy input over mesoscale than large scale. A question arises as to whether and how winds respond to the mesoscale forcing. We characterize F region winds associated with various types of auroral forms using scanning Doppler imagers, auroral imagers, and radars. The auroras examined include a quasi‐steady east‐west elongated arc, a quasi‐steady Harang aurora, transient streamers, and a transient substorm westward traveling surge. We find that winds exhibit distinct spatial structures, appearing as channels, vortices, and reversals. Such structures are consistent with the structures of the plasma flows associated with the auroras. Winds exhibit a temporal evolution very similar to the plasma flows and reach maximum perturbations only <~20 min after the flows. The above results suggest that the thermosphere is closely coupled to the ionosphere/magnetosphere through the ion drag force. The <~20‐min time scale can be partially explained by the strong ionization effect associated with the auroras and partially by the fact that the wind perturbations do not approach the flow perturbations but halt at ~20% possibly due to momentum forces other than the ion drag.
GPS Scintillations and Losses of Signal Lock at High Latitudes During the 2015 St. Patrick's Day Storm
Authors: Jin Yaqi , Oksavik Kjellmar
Published: September 2018

We investigate the Global Positioning System (GPS) amplitude and phase scintillations during a severe geomagnetic storm on 17 March 2015. The auroral oval expanded significantly due to a strongly southward interplanetary magnetic field (Bz was −25 nT). When the auroral oval was over Skibotn in northern Norway, significant enhancements in total electron content (TEC) fluctuations, amplitude, and phase scintillation were observed. The strongest amplitude and phase scintillations were observed when a TEC blob propagated across the field of view. Strong amplitude and phase scintillations were observed near the edges of the TEC blob. The European Incoherent SCATter ultrahigh frequency radar observed significant enhancement of electron density (from 0.8 × 1011 to 1.6 × 1011 m−3) near the edge of the TEC blob in the F2 region, while the E region was only slightly enhanced. This indicates that the plasma processes and instability modes, which accounted for the strong GPS scintillations, should involve the F2 region ionosphere. We also analyzed the tracking performance of the GPS receiver during strong ionospheric scintillation condition. While the receiver maintained tracking of the GPS L1 signal, the strong amplitude scintillation resulted in a power fade up to 12 dB‐Hz. Losses of lock occurred in the GPS L2 band. Both the power fade and rapid phase fluctuation should contribute to losses of lock.
Antarctic Ice Properties Revealed From Teleseismic P Wave Coda Autocorrelation
Authors: Phạm Thanh‐Son , Tkalčić Hrvoje
Published: September 2018

Antarctica is largely covered by an ice cap of a variable thickness characterized by relatively low density and seismic velocities. Passive seismological deployments have a limited use in imaging a thin ice layer because of the dominance of a relatively low‐frequency content in the teleseismic wavefield. Here we use passive seismological data and an improved autocorrelation method utilizing P wave coda to image the ice cover. The resulting autocorrelograms are interpreted as reflectivity records from a virtual source on the surface and reflection pulses at the ice base. We convert the reflection delay of P waves to the ice thickness measurements using a homogeneous P wave speed compatible with previous studies. Apart from P wave reflectivity, we obtain S wave reflectivity from the autocorrelation of radial component. The ratio of S wave and P wave reflection times represents a measurement of the P over S wave speed ratio (and Poisson's ratio). The successful application to unveil the Antarctic ice sheet properties presented here opens a way for future studies to measure properties of the ice cover in Antarctica, other continents, and icy planets in future space missions.
Making Cratonic Lithospheric Mantle
Authors: Su Bin , Chen Yi
Published: September 2018

The origin of cratonic lithospheric mantle has been attributed to either high‐pressure (5–7 GPa) melting in hot mantle plumes or low‐pressure (<5 GPa) melting in mid‐ocean ridges or suprasubduction zones. To resolve this long‐standing debate, it is necessary to confirm under what depths the incipient cratonic mantle melted. Compared with most cratonic mantle xenoliths and xenocrysts, which commonly experienced metasomatic modification after melt extraction, diamond inclusions with predominantly harzburgitic compositions can better track the compositional signature of pristine cratonic mantle. This paper presents thermodynamic calculations performed with THERMOCALC software to establish a quantitative relationship between garnet and cratonic peridotite compositions. Along the normal cratonic geotherm (40 mW/m2), the XCa [atomic Ca/(Ca + Mg + Fe2+)] and Cr# [atomic Cr/(Cr + Al) × 100] values in garnet depend mainly on the bulk CaO/Al2O3 and Cr# values, respectively. Furthermore, mantle melting modeling shows that the Cr# of the residue displays a negative correlation with melting pressure at melt fractions of greater than ~15%. Therefore, the high Cr# values (mostly 12–36) of global garnet inclusions in diamond support a low‐pressure (<4 GPa) origin for cratonic lithospheric mantle. More importantly, the incipient cratonic mantle calculated from the garnet inclusions exhibits similar bulk CaO/Al2O3 and Cr# compositions to oceanic lithosphere but different values from arc lithosphere with higher CaO/Al2O3 and Cr# values. These results imply that cratonic mantle was initially formed by the extensive melting of hot ambient mantle in the Archean ocean ridge environments. The shallow oceanic lithosphere was subsequently stacked to generate the thick and stable cratonic lithospheric mantle.
The role of acid-sensitive ion channels in panic disorder: a systematic review of animal studies and meta-analysis of human studies
Authors: Quagliato Laiana A. , Freire Rafael C. , Nardi Antonio E.
Published: September 2018

Acid-sensitive ion channels, such as amiloride-sensitive cation channel (ACCN), transient receptor potential vanilloid-1 (TRPV1), and T-cell death-associated gene 8 (TDAG8) are highly related to the expression of fear and are expressed in several regions of the brain. These molecules can detect acidosis and maintain brain homeostasis. An important role of pH homeostasis has been suggested in the physiology of panic disorder (PD), with acidosis as an interoceptive trigger for panic attacks. To examine the effect of acid-sensitive channels on PD symptoms, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of these chemosensors in rodents and humans. Following PRISMA guidelines, we systematically searched the Web of Science, Medline/Pubmed, Scopus, Science Direct, and SciELO databases. The review included original research in PD patients and animal models of PD that investigated acid-sensitive channels and PD symptoms. Studies without a control group, studies involving patients with a comorbid psychiatric diagnosis, and in vitro studies were excluded. Eleven articles met the inclusion criteria for the systematic review. The majority of the studies showed an association between panic symptoms and acid-sensitive channels. PD patients appear to display polymorphisms in the ACCN gene and elevated levels of TDAG8 mRNA. The results showed a decrease in panic-like symptoms after acid channel blockade in animal models. Despite the relatively limited data on this topic in the literature, our review identified evidence linking acid-sensitive channels to PD in humans and preclinical models. Future research should explore possible underlying mechanisms of this association, attempt to replicate the existing findings in larger populations, and develop new therapeutic strategies based on these biological features.
Gut microbiota regulates mouse behaviors through glucocorticoid receptor pathway genes in the hippocampus
Authors: Luo Yuanyuan , Zeng Benhua , Zeng Li , Du Xiangyu , Li Bo , Huo Ran , Liu Lanxiang , Wang Haiyang , Dong Meixue , Pan Junxi , Zheng Peng , Zhou Chanjuan , Wei Hong , Xie Peng
Published: September 2018

Gut microbiota has an important role in the immune system, metabolism, and digestion, and has a significant effect on the nervous system. Recent studies have revealed that abnormal gut microbiota induces abnormal behaviors, which may be associated with the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis. Therefore, we investigated the behavioral changes in germ-free (GF) mice by behavioral tests, quantified the basal serum cortisol levels, and examined glucocorticoid receptor pathway genes in hippocampus using microarray analysis followed by real-time PCR validation, to explore the molecular mechanisms by which the gut microbiota influences the host’s behaviors and brain function. Moreover, we quantified the basal serum cortisol levels and validated the differential genes in anEscherichia coli-derived lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treatment mouse model and fecal “depression microbiota” transplantation mouse model by real-time PCR. We found that GF mice showed antianxiety- and antidepressant-like behaviors, whereasE. coliLPS-treated mice showed antidepressant-like behavior, but did not show antianxiety-like behavior. However, “depression microbiota” recipient mice exhibited anxiety- and depressive-like behaviors. In addition, six glucocorticoid receptor pathway genes (Slc22a5,Aqp1,Stat5a,Ampd3,Plekhf1, andCyb561) were upregulated in GF mice, and of these only two (Stat5aandAmpd3) were upregulated in LPS-treated mice, whereas the shared gene,Stat5a, was downregulated in “depression microbiota” recipient mice. Furthermore, basal serum cortisol levels were decreased inE. coliLPS-treated mice but not in GF mice and “depression microbiota” recipient mice. These results indicated that the gut microbiota may lead to behavioral abnormalities in mice through the downstream pathway of the glucocorticoid receptor. Herein, we proposed a new insight into the molecular mechanisms by which gut microbiota influence depressive-like behavior.
RNA-Seq Analysis of Spinal Cord Tissues from hPFN1G118V Transgenic Mouse Model of ALS at Pre-symptomatic and End-Stages of Disease
Authors: Barham Caroline , Fil Daniel , Byrum Stephanie D. , Rahmatallah Yasir , Glazko Galina , Kiaei Mahmoud
Published: September 2018

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease that leads to the loss of motor neurons. The molecular mechanisms of motor neuron degeneration are largely unknown and there are currently no effective therapies to treat this disease. In this work, we report whole transcriptome profiling of spinal cords of mutant transgenic hPFN1G118V mice and their wildtype transgenic hPFN1WT controls at a pre-symptomatic stage and at the end-stage of disease. Analyses revealed that end-stage hPFN1G118V mice had 890 differentially expressed genes (747 up-regulated, 143 down-regulated) when compared to pre-symptomatic hPFN1G118V mice, and they had 836 differentially expressed genes (742 up-regulated, 94 down-regulated) when compared to age-matched hPFN1WT controls. Pre-symptomatic hPFN1G118V mice were not significantly different from age-matched hPFN1WT controls. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis identified inflammatory pathways significantly activated in end-stage hPFN1G118V samples, suggesting an excess of glial activation at end-stage disease, possibly due to an increase in glial composition within the spinal cord during disease progression. In conclusion, our RNA-Seq data identified molecules and pathways involved in the mechanisms of neurodegeneration that could potentially serve as therapeutic targets for ALS.
Efficient identification of somatic mutations in acute myeloid leukaemia using whole exome sequencing of fingernail derived DNA as germline control
Authors: Kakadia Purvi M. , Van de Water Neil , Browett Peter J. , Bohlander Stefan K.
Published: September 2018

Recent advances in next-generation sequencing have made it possible to perform genome wide identification of somatic mutation in cancers. Most studies focus on identifying somatic mutations in the protein coding portion of the genome using whole exome sequencing (WES). Every human genome has around 4 million single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). A sizeable fraction of these germline SNPs is very rare and will not be found in the databases. Thus, in order to unambiguously identify somatic mutation, it is absolutely necessary to know the germline SNPs of the patient. While a blood sample can serve as source of germline DNA from patients with solid tumours, obtaining germline DNA from patients with haematological malignancies is very difficult. Tumor cells often infiltrate the skin, and their DNA can be found in saliva and buccal swab samples. The DNA in the tips of nails stems from keratinocytes that have undergone keratinization several months ago. DNA was successfully extracted from nail clippings of 5 probands for WES. We were able to identify somatic mutations in one tumor exome by using the nail exome as germline reference. Our results demonstrate that nail DNA is a reliable source of germline DNA in the setting of hematological malignancies.
Groucho related gene 5 (GRG5) is involved in embryonic and neural stem cell state decisions
Authors: Chanoumidou Konstantina , Hadjimichael Christiana , Athanasouli Paraskevi , Ahlenius Henrik , Klonizakis Antonis , Nikolaou Christoforos , Drakos Elias , Kostouros Antonis , Stratidaki Irene , Grigoriou Maria , Kretsovali Androniki
Published: September 2018

Groucho related gene 5 (GRG5) is a multifunctional protein that has been implicated in late embryonic and postnatal mouse development. Here, we describe a previously unknown role of GRG5 in early developmental stages by analyzing its function in stem cell fate decisions. By both loss and gain of function approaches we demonstrate that ablation of GRG5 deregulates the Embryonic Stem Cell (ESC) pluripotent state whereas its overexpression leads to enhanced self-renewal and acquisition of cancer cell-like properties. The malignant characteristics of teratomas generated by ESCs that overexpress GRG5 reveal its pro-oncogenic potential. Furthermore, transcriptomic analysis and cell differentiation approaches underline GRG5 as a multifaceted signaling regulator that represses mesendodermal-related genes. When ESCs exit pluripotency, GRG5 promotes neuroectodermal specification via Wnt and BMP signaling suppression. Moreover, GRG5 promotes the neuronal reprogramming of fibroblasts and maintains the self-renewal of Neural Stem Cells (NSCs) by sustaining the activity of Notch/Hes and Stat3 signaling pathways. In summary, our results demonstrate that GRG5 has pleiotropic roles in stem cell biology functioning as a stemness factor and a neural fate specifier.
Investigating the genetic profile of dopaminergic neurons in the VTA in response to perinatal nicotine exposure using mRNA-miRNA analyses
Authors: Keller Renee F. , Dragomir Andrei , Yantao Fan , Akay Yasemin M. , Akay Metin
Published: September 2018

Maternal smoking during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of developmental, behavioral, and cognitive deficits. Nicotine, the primary addictive component in tobacco, has been shown to modulate changes in gene expression when exposure occurs during neurodevelopment. The ventral tegmental area (VTA) is believed to be central to the mechanism of addiction because of its involvement in the reward pathway. The purpose of this study was to build a genetic profile for dopamine (DA) neurons in the VTA and investigate the disruptions to the molecular pathways after perinatal nicotine exposure. Initially, we isolated the VTA from rat pups treated perinatally with either nicotine or saline (control) and collected DA neurons using fluorescent-activated cell sorting. Using microarray analysis, we profiled the differential expression of mRNAs and microRNAs from DA neurons in the VTA in order to explore potential points of regulation and enriched pathways following perinatal nicotine exposure. Furthermore, mechanisms of miRNA-mediated post-transcriptional regulation were investigated using predicted and validated miRNA-gene targets in order to demonstrate the role of miRNAs in the mesocorticolimbic DA pathway. This study provides insight into the genetic profile as well as biological pathways of DA neurons in the VTA of rats following perinatal nicotine exposure.
Geobiology reveals how human kidney stones dissolve in vivo
Authors: Sivaguru Mayandi , Saw Jessica J. , Williams James C. , Lieske John C. , Krambeck Amy E. , Romero Michael F. , Chia Nicholas , Schwaderer Andrew L. , Alcalde Reinaldo E. , Bruce William J. , Wildman Derek E. , Fried Glenn A. , Werth Charles J. , Reeder Richard J. , Yau Peter M. , Sanford Robert A. , Fouke Bruce W.
Published: September 2018

More than 10% of the global human population is now afflicted with kidney stones, which are commonly associated with other significant health problems including diabetes, hypertension and obesity. Nearly 70% of these stones are primarily composed of calcium oxalate, a mineral previously assumed to be effectively insoluble within the kidney. This has limited currently available treatment options to painful passage and/or invasive surgical procedures. We analyze kidney stone thin sections with a combination of optical techniques, which include bright field, polarization, confocal and super-resolution nanometer-scale auto-fluorescence microscopy. Here we demonstrate using interdisciplinary geology and biology (geobiology) approaches that calcium oxalate stones undergo multiple events of dissolution as they crystallize and grow within the kidney. These observations open a fundamentally new paradigm for clinical approaches that include in vivo stone dissolution and identify high-frequency layering of organic matter and minerals as a template for biomineralization in natural and engineered settings.
A machine learning approach to estimating preterm infants survival: development of the Preterm Infants Survival Assessment (PISA) predictor
Authors: Podda Marco , Bacciu Davide , Micheli Alessio , Bellù Roberto , Placidi Giulia , Gagliardi Luigi
Published: September 2018

Estimation of mortality risk of very preterm neonates is carried out in clinical and research settings. We aimed at elaborating a prediction tool using machine learning methods. We developed models on a cohort of 23747 neonates <30 weeks gestational age, or <1501 g birth weight, enrolled in the Italian Neonatal Network in 2008–2014 (development set), using 12 easily collected perinatal variables. We used a cohort from 2015–2016 (N = 5810) as a test set. Among several machine learning methods we chose artificial Neural Networks (NN). The resulting predictor was compared with logistic regression models. In the test cohort, NN had a slightly better discrimination than logistic regression (P < 0.002). The differences were greater in subgroups of neonates (at various gestational age or birth weight intervals, singletons). Using a cutoff of death probability of 0.5, logistic regression misclassified 67/5810 neonates (1.2 percent) more than NN. In conclusion our study – the largest published so far – shows that even in this very simplified scenario, using only limited information available up to 5 minutes after birth, a NN approach had a small but significant advantage over current approaches. The software implementing the predictor is made freely available to the community.
Nitrogen and phosphorus stoichiometry of Schima superba under nitrogen deposition
Authors: Zhang Rui , Pan Hongwei , He Biting , Chen Huanwei , Zhou Zhichun
Published: September 2018

In this study, leaf nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) stoichiometry were used as indicators of nitrogen saturation and to assess ecosystem nutrient limitations. Schima superba, a representative and widely distributed dominant evergreen broadleaf tree species of the subtropical forests in southern China, was used for this purpose. A nutrient-addition experiment and a field survey were conducted to test the responses of trees from different provenances to N deposition. The relationships between leaf N and P stoichiometry and biomass, nutrient limitation, and soil N:P were analyzed. There was a relationship between leaf N, P, N:P, soil N:P and plant dry biomass. A threshold leaf N:P ratio (16.3) divided the five provenances into different nutrient-limitation classes that were related to the soil N:P ratio or N deposition. The leaf N:P ratio provided an indication of P limitation. A higher soil P level reduced the N deposition effect on plant growth. The leaf N:P ratio of individuals from different provenances can be used as a predictor of nutrient limitation, and this was related to the soil N:P ratio.
Nitinol powders generate from Plasma Rotation Electrode Process provide clean powder for biomedical devices used with suitable size, spheroid surface and pure composition
Authors: Hsu Tai-I , Wei Chia-Min , Wu Lu-Dien , Li Yun-Ping , Chiba Akihiko , Tsai Meng-Hsiu
Published: September 2018

The nickel-titanium alloy (57Ni-43Ti in wt%) was atomized by the plasma rotating electrode process (PREP). The PREP parameters such as plasma arc current, rotating electrode speed with corresponding PREP powder size range in weight percentage analysis, powder morphology and biocapability of cells were studied by scanning electron microscopies, Inductively Coupled Plasma and X-ray diffraction techniques. From the electrode of the produced powders, the composition has no obviously changes. Weight percentage up to 31.8% of the range under 300 μm while the rotation electrode speed increase to 12k rpm. Spherical and flat with smooth surface were observed in different size range. Brittle phase was not observed of XRD data. The nitinol powder has high biocapability with cells showed no cytotoxicity and well cell adhesion in the in vivo assay.
A comprehensive manually-curated compendium of bovine transcription factors
Authors: de Souza Marcela M. , Zerlotini Adhemar , Geistlinger Ludwig , Tizioto Polyana C. , Taylor Jeremy F. , Rocha Marina I. P. , Diniz Wellison J. S. , Coutinho Luiz L. , Regitano Luciana C. A.
Published: September 2018

Transcription factors (TFs) are pivotal regulatory proteins that control gene expression in a context-dependent and tissue-specific manner. In contrast to human, where comprehensive curated TF collections exist, bovine TFs are only rudimentary recorded and characterized. In this article, we present a manually-curated compendium of 865 sequence-specific DNA-binding bovines TFs, which we analyzed for domain family distribution, evolutionary conservation, and tissue-specific expression. In addition, we provide a list of putative transcription cofactors derived from known interactions with the identified TFs. Since there is a general lack of knowledge concerning the regulation of gene expression in cattle, the curated list of TF should provide a basis for an improved comprehension of regulatory mechanisms that are specific to the species.
Peptide supramolecular materials for therapeutics
Authors: Sato Kohei , Hendricks Mark P. , Palmer Liam C. , Stupp Samuel I.
Published: September 2018

Supramolecular assembly of peptide-based monomers into nanostructures offers many promising applications in advanced therapies. In this Tutorial Review, we introduce molecular designs to control the structure and potential biological function of supramolecular assemblies.
An ultrasensitive electrochemical cytosensor for highly specific detection of HL-60 cancer cells based on metal ion functionalized titanium phosphate nanospheres
Authors: Sun Panpan , Xiong Wei-Wei , Zhu Dong , Dong Zhuhua , Jin Xuping , Liu Beibei , Zhang Yi , Bao Beihua , Yao Weifeng , Zhang Li , Cheng Fang-Fang
Published: September 2018

An ultrasensitive cytosensor was constructed using KH1C12 aptamers as cell capturers and Cd2+-exchanged titanium phosphate nanospheres as electrochemical probes.
Interpenetrating network gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) and pectin-g-PCL hydrogels with tunable properties for tissue engineering
Authors: Fares Mohammad M. , Shirzaei Sani Ehsan , Portillo Lara Roberto , Oliveira Rhayza B. , Khademhosseini Ali , Annabi Nasim
Published: September 2018

The design of new hydrogel-based biomaterials with tunable physical and biological properties is essential for the advancement of applications related to tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
Designing a 3D nanoporous network via self-assembly of WO3 nanorods for improved electrocapacitive performance
Authors: Salkar Akshay V. , Naik Amarja P. , Joshi Vrushali S. , Haram Santosh K. , Morajkar Pranay P.
Published: September 2018

This work presents the first report on effective utilization of protonated urea, to design 3D WO3 nanoporous networks using self-assembly of WO3 nanorods, exhibiting enhancement in electrocapacitive performance.
A robust core–shell nanostructured nickel–iron alloy@nitrogen-containing carbon catalyst for the highly efficient hydrogenation of nitroarenes
Authors: Zhang Yaowen , Liu Chunling , Fan Guoli , Yang Lan , Li Feng
Published: September 2018

A core–shell nanostructured NiFe alloy@ nitrogen-containing carbon catalyst exhibited robust catalytic performance in the hydrogenation of nitroarenes.
Green synthesis of nanoscale anion exchange resin for sustainable water purification
Authors: Sahu Abhispa , Blackburn Kayla , Durkin Kayla , Eldred Tim B. , Johnson Billy R. , Sheikh Rabia , Amburgey James E. , Poler Jordan C.
Published: September 2018

A new water purification ion exchange membrane has been synthesized using an all-aqueous and sustainable process. These thin film membranes exhibit a pin hole free, mesoporous architecture that rapidly removes several classes of pervasive and persistent contaminants from water.
Acid induced reduction of the glycaemic response to starch-rich foods: the salivary α-amylase inhibition hypothesis
Authors: Freitas Daniela , Le Feunteun Steven
Published: September 2018

Acid-inhibition of salivary α-amylase resulted in the interruption of starch release by 50% and interruption of amylolysis into oligosaccharides.
Vitamin metal–organic framework-laden microfibers from microfluidics for wound healing
Authors: Yu Yunru , Chen Guopu , Guo Jiahui , Liu Yuxiao , Ren Jianan , Kong Tiantian , Zhao Yuanjin
Published: September 2018

Vitamin MOF-laden microfibers with alginate shells and copper- or zinc-vitamin framework cores are controllably generated for improving tissue wound healing.
Synthesis and catalytic application of [PPP]-pincer iron, nickel and cobalt complexes for the hydrosilylation of aldehydes and ketones
Authors: Qi Xinghao , Zhao Hua , Sun Hongjian , Li Xiaoyan , Fuhr Olaf , Fenske Dieter
Published: September 2018

The catalytic performance of [PPP]-pincer hydrido Fe, Ni and Co complexes for the hydrosilylation of aldehydes and ketones was explored.
Recent advances in the synthesis of cyclopropanes
Authors: Wu Wanqing , Lin Zhiming , Jiang Huanfeng
Published: September 2018

Cyclopropanes have gained much attention by virtue of their interesting structure and unique reactivity. This review discusses the recent advances in the synthesis of cyclopropanes, and some of the related applications will be discussed.
The [4 + 2] cyclization/retro-Mannich reaction cascade of para-quinone methide derivatives with Pd-containing 1,4-dipoles
Authors: Jiang Xiao-Li , Wu Shu-Fang , Wang Jin-Rong , Lu Han , Mei Guang-Jian , Shi Feng
Published: September 2018

The first [4 + 2] cyclization/retro-Mannich reaction cascade of para-quinone methides with Pd-containing 1,4-dipoles generated in situ from vinyl benzoxazinanones has been established. The corresponding rearrangement products were obtained in generally good yields.
Synthesis and properties of dithienylethene-functionalized switchable antibacterial agents
Authors: Li Ziyong , Wang Yangyang , Li Mengna , Zhang Haining , Guo Hui , Ya Huiyuan , Yin Jun
Published: September 2018

The ring-closed isomers showed stronger antibacterial activity than the corresponding ring-open isomers (E. coli up to 16 times).
Copper-catalyzed one-pot domino reactions via C–H bond activation: synthesis of 3-aroylquinolines from 2-aminobenzylalcohols and propiophenones under metal–organic framework catalysis
Authors: Dang Ha V. , Le Hoang T. B. , Tran Loan T. B. , Ha Hiep Q. , Le Ha V. , Phan Nam T. S.
Published: September 2018

Cu2(OBA)2(BPY) metal–organic framework was utilized as a productive heterogeneous catalyst for the synthesis of 3-aroylquinolines via one-pot domino reactions of 2-aminobenzylalcohols with propiophenones.
Flexible and high energy density solid-state asymmetric supercapacitor based on polythiophene nanocomposites and charcoal
Authors: H. Vijeth , S. P. Ashokkumar , L. Yesappa , M. Niranjana , M. Vandana , H. Devendrappa
Published: September 2018

A high energy density flexible solid-state asymmetric supercapacitor is fabricated using polythiophene nanocomposites and charcoal which exhibits stable electrochemical properties in different bending position.
Tolerance factors of hybrid organic–inorganic perovskites: recent improvements and current state of research
Authors: Burger S. , Ehrenreich M. G. , Kieslich G.
Published: September 2018

We provide an update on the current state of the tolerance factor concept for hybrid organic–inorganic perovskites, reviewing the different improvements that have been made over the past few years.
Heptazine based organic framework as a chemiresistive sensor for ammonia detection at room temperature
Authors: Sharma Nidhi , Sharma Neha , Srinivasan Parthasarathy , Kumar Sunil , Balaguru Rayappan John Bosco , Kailasam Kamalakannan
Published: September 2018

We have demonstrated for the first time, a heptazine based microporous polymer sensor for the detection of ammonia at room temperature and under ambient conditions. .
Atom-economical construction of carbon nanotube architectures for flexible supercapacitors with ultrahigh areal and volumetric capacities
Authors: Li Zhenhua , Yang Qihui , Fan Kui , Xie Wenfu , Qiao Wang , Shao Mingfei , Wei Min
Published: September 2018

Carbon nanotube nanoarrays were fabricated by a self-sustaining CVD method, which form an ideal matrix for supporting high mass-loading pseudocapacitance materials.
Structure dependent luminescence, peroxidase mimetic and hydrogen peroxide sensing of samarium doped cerium phosphate nanorods
Authors: Vinothkumar G. , I. L. Arun , Arunkumar P. , Ahmed Waseem , Ryu Sangbong , Cha Suk Won , Babu K. Suresh
Published: September 2018

Samarium doped cerium phosphate nanorods exhibit enhanced peroxidase mimetic activity and hydrogen peroxide sensing.
Rational design strategies for electron-deficient semiconducting polymers in ambipolar/n-channel organic transistors and all-polymer solar cells
Authors: Wang Yang , Michinobu Tsuyoshi
Published: September 2018

This review has critically summarized the recent molecular design strategies for the electron-deficient semiconducting polymers. The molecular structural implications related to the ambipolar/n-type device performances of transistors and all-polymer solar cells are discussed.
The discovery of hydrogen bonds in DNA and a re-evaluation of the 1948 Creeth two-chain model for its structure
Authors: Harding Stephen E. , Channell Guy , Phillips-Jones Mary K.
Published: September 2018

We recall the experimental approaches involved in the discovery of hydrogen bonds in deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) made 70 years ago by a team of scientists at University College Nottingham led by J.M. Gulland, and in relation to previous studies. This discovery proved an important step in the elucidation of the correct structure for DNA made by J.D. Watson and F.H.C. Crick, as acknowledged in ‘The Double Helix’. At that time of the discovery, however, it was impossible to delineate between inter- and intra-chain hydrogen bonds. We also consider in the light of more recent hydrodynamic theory a tentative model for DNA proposed by Gulland's and D.O. Jordan's PhD student J.M. Creeth in his PhD thesis of 1948, with the correct prediction of two chains with a sugar-phosphate backbone on the exterior and hydrogen-bonded bases between the nucleotide bases of opposite chains in the interior. Our analysis shows that his incorporation of alternating breaks in the two-chain structure was not necessary to explain the viscosity data on scission of hydrogen bonds after titrating to high or low pH. Although Creeth's model is a depiction of DNA structure alone, he could not know whether the hydrogen bonding was intermolecular, although this was subsequently proved correct by others. The mechanisms by which replicative processes occurred were of course unknown at that time, and so, he could not have realised how closely his tentative model resembled steps in some viral replicative mechanisms involving the molecule of life that he was working on.
The conduction band non-parabolicity of degenerate AZO semiconductors: k.p method
Authors: Esmaeili Asghar , Faraji Mehdi , Karimi Somayyeh
Published: September 2018

We present a discussion regarding the conduction band non-parabolicity and the Fermi energy of Al doped ZnO (AZO) degenerate semiconductors using the higher orders of Fermi–Dirac (F-D) integrals. We find an analytical expression for Fermi energy, based on two-band k.p theory and modified Boltzmann's classical equation. We examine the accuracy of resulted expression using absolute error value.
Flow Stress of beryllium: Attempt for a Bayesian Crossed-data Analysis from Hopkinson Bars to Rayleigh-Taylor Instabilities
Authors: Seisson Gabriel , Dubois Vincent , Bolis Cyril , Denoual Christophe
Published: September 2018

In this paper, we demonstrate by a Bayesian approach the incapacity of the Preston-Tonks-Wallace (PTW) strength model to represent, with the same set of parameters, the flow stress of beryllium in both moder-ate and highly dynamic experiments, and suggest hypotheses explaining that limitation. Usual plasticity models such as Johnson-Cook (JC) and PTW are mostly adjusted onto quasi-static and dynamic uni-axial compression data acquired thanks to compression machines and split Hopkinson pressure bars. Nonetheless, they may be used beyond the range of mechanical loading in which they have been fitted. This is the case of the simulations of solid Rayleigh-Taylor instabilities (RTI) driven by high explosives. A recent work of Henry de Frahan et al. noticed the inability of various plasticity models to stand for the growth of beryllium RTI. Amongst them, the PTW model has been particularly examined through four different sets of parameters, each of them largely un-derestimates the growth of the experimental instability. Thus, this work is an attempt, regarding the plastic flow modeling of beryllium, to conciliate uni-axial compression tests (CT) and RTI by means of a crossed Bayesian analysis.
Intralaminar fracture toughness of UD glass fiber composite under high rate fiber tension and fiber compression loading
Authors: Kuhn Peter , Koerber Hannes , Catalanotti Giuseppe , Xavier José
Published: September 2018

Automotive and aeronautical composite structures can be subjected to dynamic loading scenarios (e.g. crash, bird strike). In both industrial areas, energy-based damage models for composite materials, able to predict initiation and evolution of damage of a composite ply under various loading conditions, are increasingly used. These models require the specification of fracture toughness parameters for the main failure modes. In previous works [1],[2], the authors have successfully enhanced a methodology suggested by Catalanotti et al. [3],[4] to measure the fiber failure crack resistance curves of a UD carbon fiber composite under dynamic loading. This methodology uses the relation between the energy release rate, the crack resistance curve and the size-effect law. For the determination of the size-effect law, double-edge-notched specimens of different sizes are tested. In this work, the developed approach is used for the measurement of the fracture toughness for fiber tension and compression failure of a UD glass-epoxy composite under high rate loading. Static tests are performed on an electromechanical test machine. For the high rate tests, split-Hopkinson bars for tensile (SHTB) and compressive (SHPB) loading are used. The results show, that the fracture toughness of the UD glass-epoxy composite, associated with the fiber failure modes, increases with increasing loading rate for tension as well as for compression. The observed strain rate effect on the fracture toughness of the glass-epoxy composite is more pronounced than for the carbon-epoxy composite investigated in [1],[2], in particular for fiber tensile failure.
Dynamic tension of aluminum alloy AMg-6 in a facility of Split Hopkinson Bar
Authors: Pushkov Victor , Yurlov Alexey , Leonov Valery , Tsibikov Andrew , Naydanova Tatiana
Published: September 2018

The results are presented to create a facility for studying dynamic tension of structural materials by using the Split Hopkinson Bar Method (SHB method). The explosive method of loading and a cylindrical corner-rounding sample are used in a facility. A sample has threads at both end faces and it fastened in rods by the help of threads. The results of test experiments are presented in the facility for studying dynamic tension of the aluminum alloy AMg-6 at strain rates of 1160-1450 s-1. The diagrams of dynamic tension σ-ε were built. The data on peculiarities of deformation AMg-6 were gained.
Experimental characterisation of rate-dependent compression behaviour of fibre reinforced composites
Authors: Pathan Mehtab V. , Erice Borja , Ponnusami Sathiskumar A. , Petrinic Nik
Published: September 2018

Fibre reinforced polymers (FRP) materials are being increasingly used for aerospace and automotive structural applications. One of the critical loading conditions for such applications is impact, consequently, understanding of the composite behavior under such loads becomes critical for structural design. The analysis and design process for achieving impact-resistant composite structures requires rate-dependent constitutive models, which, in turn, requires material properties of the composite over a range of strain rates. It is, therefore, the objective of the research to investigate the strain rate-dependent behavior of fiber reinforced composites under compressive loads for a wide range of fiber orientations. Quasi-static (≈ 1e-3 s−1) and high loading (≈ 200 s−1) rates are considered for the experimental study. Accordingly, two different test setups are utilized, a screw-driven universal testing machine for quasi-static tests and a Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB) system for dynamic tests. The stress-strain response of the composite is reported for the different fiber orientations and the strain rates, revealing the rate-dependent characteristics of the carbon fiber reinforced composite. From the test results, it is observed that, the dependency of the fracture strength on the loading rate is significant. The results are summarised in terms of the failure envelope in the transverse compression-in-plane shear σ22 − σ12 plane for the two strain rates.
Probe Embryonic Damage Evolution in Bulk Metallic Glasses under Plate-impact Loading
Authors: Ling Zhong , Huang Xin , Dai Lanhong
Published: September 2018

Microdamage in very short stress durations of spallation process in Zr-based bulk metallic glass (Zr-BMG) samples were captured by a specially designed plate impact technique. With stress durations vary, microdamage “frozen” in Zr-BMG samples exhibited different damage levels. Based on the morphology and stress environment of the microdamage, a compound microdamage evolution mode is applied to characterize the spallation evolution in Zr-BMGs. Especially the spallation in BMGs originates from cavitation instabilities in the weak regions with higher free volume content, which results in formation of ductile damage zones. The activation of shear transformation zones (STZs) or tension transformation zones (TTZs) between these ductile damage zones finally leads to detached spallation.
A mathematical formulation of time-cost and reliability optimization for supply chain management in research-development projects
Authors: Forozandeh M. , Teimoury E. , Makui A.
Published: September 2018

One of the most important strategic decisions in Research-Development projects is network design. It needs to be optimized for the long-term efficient operation. This paper aims at designing the network of Supply Chain for R&D projects. Accordingly, it proposes a Goal programming model for solving a Project-oriented Supply Chain Management problem. The proposed model is developed to determine the optimal combination of the main contractors, executers, and various alternatives for project implementation. The model optimizes time, cost and reliability in the whole lifecycle for the R&D projects. A case study is presented to validate and illustrate the proposed model. The main reason for the high cost and time in the case study was due to the incorrect choice of the network of suppliers and consultants. The model has been tested by the numerical data, revealing that the model could have a significant contribution to the productivity of project-oriented organization. This model could serve as a guideline for managers and decision makers in R&D projects, enabling them to identify the best networks of the SC in their organizations to resolve and improve problems. It also acts as a useful basis for researchers to continue research concerning SCM in R&D projects.
Krankenpflege in Spanien und Deutschland
Authors: Escoda Medina Patricia , Heinicke Tobias
Published: September 2018

Durch die schwierige ökonomische Situation in Spanien gibt es viele Pflegekräfte, die sich nach neuen Möglichkeiten umschauen. Einige gehen auf der Suche nach
einem Arbeitsplatz den Weg ins Ausland – so auch Patricia Escoda Medina. Sie hat in Madrid Krankenpflege studiert und dort gearbeitet, bevor sie durch ein
Projekt der Uniklinik Erlangen nach Deutschland kam. Dort arbeitet sie nun auf einer interdisziplinären operativen Intensivstation und hat mittlerweile die
Fachweiterbildung für Intensivpflege und Anästhesie abgeschlossen. Ihr folgender Beitrag gibt einen kleinen Überblick über Studium und Praxis der Krankenpflege
in Spanien.
Fixieren oder nicht?
Authors: Fröhlich Martin R. , Hürlimann Barbara , Warmuth Irene , Helberg Dorothea , Frei Irena Anna
Published: September 2018

„Der Patient zieht am Tubus und extubiert sich beinahe selbst. Ich kann nicht ständig am Bett stehen und nach ihm schauen. Darum musste ich ihm zur Sicherheit
die Hände festbinden.“ In einer solchen Situation hat sich wahrscheinlich jede Intensivpflegefachperson schon einmal befunden: Einerseits ist es wichtig, die
Patientensicherheit zu gewährleisten. Andererseits gilt es aber auch, die erforderlichen therapeutischen und pflegerischen Aufgaben während der Schicht auf der
Intensivstation zu erfüllen.
Krafttraining im Alter
Authors: Jungreitmayr Sonja
Published: September 2018

Der Körper verändert sich im Alter gravierend. Eine Folge davon ist die nachlassende Fitness. Bei manchen zeigt sich dies nur diskret, andere nehmen immer
weniger am Leben teil, werden schwächer und können schließlich kaum noch ihren Alltag bewältigen. Mit geeigneten Tests können Sie den Fitnesslevel älterer
Menschen objektiv einschätzen und geeignete Trainingsformen entwickeln, die alten Menschen helfen, lange aktiv zu bleiben und sich gefahrlos bewegen zu
können.
Gelder für Fort- und Weiterbildungen – Lass dich fördern!
Authors: Winkler Alexander
Published: September 2018

Therapeuten greifen nicht nur für die Ausbildung tief in die Tasche, sie finanzieren meist auch ihre Fort- und Weiterbildung selbst. Das muss nicht sein, findet Alexander Winkler. Er hat zusammengetragen, welche Fördermöglichkeiten es für Therapeuten gibt, und erstaunlich viele gefunden.