bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Speaking in Tongues, Speaking without Tongues: Transplanted Voices in Charles Brockden Brown's Wieland
Authors: SCHÖBERLEIN STEFAN
Published: April 2016

This essay examines an underexplored aspect of Charles Brockden Brown's Wieland – namely its German–Indian context – and reads it through the story's main plot device: ventriloquism. Using some of Brown's manuscripts as well as journalistic pieces, the essay brings together the more puzzling aspects of this central US American gothic tale into a study of colonial violence and transplanted voices. Following Sarah Rivett's recent claim of a “spectral presence of American Indians” in the story, this essay argues for a rereading of the character of the “bioloquist” that brings to the surface a deep history of the dispossession of Native peoples (especially the Lenape) carefully interwoven into the novel's subtext.
Establishing Hồ Chí Minh's Cult: Vietnamese Traditions and Their Transformations
Authors: Dror Olga
Published: April 2016

After Vietnam's August Revolution in 1945, Hồ Chí Minh was venerated as the center of a newly created political religion that eventually became part of the Vietnamese religious landscape. This article traces the origins of Hồ Chí Minh's veneration and his own role in cementing his image not only as the leader of the nation but as the Uncle, the head of the Vietnamese national family. Through an examination of Hồ Chí Minh's first (auto)biography, it explores some of the means employed to achieve these results. Hồ Chí Minh's cult transformed the nation and altered Vietnamese cultural traditions. It served to acquaint people with the new order and to create and perpetuate people's loyalty to the newly formed state entities. This article looks at how Hồ Chí Minh went from being the master of his own cult to losing control over it and becoming its employee.
Enhanced terahertz radiation generation by two-color laser pulses propagating in plasma
Authors: Verma N.K. , Jha P.
Published: April 2016

A one-dimensional (1D) numerical model for studying enhanced terahertz (THz) radiation generation by mixing of ordinary and extraordinary modes of two-color laser pulses propagating in magnetized plasma has been presented. The direction of the static external magnetic field is such that one of the two laser pulses propagates in the extraordinary mode, while the other pulse propagates in the ordinary mode, through homogeneous plasma. A transverse electromagnetic wave with frequency in the THz range is generated due to the presence of the external magnetic field. It is observed that larger amplitude THz radiation can be generated by mixing of the ordinary and extraordinary modes of the two-color laser pulses as compared with the single laser pulse propagating in the extraordinary mode. Further, 2D simulations using the XOOPIC code show that the fields obtained via simulation study are compatible with those obtained from the numerical model.
THE TROLLEY PROBLEM AND AGGRESSION
Authors: Kamm F. M.
Published: April 2016

This essay considers complications introduced by the Trolley Problem to the discussion of whether and when harming some for the sake of helping others would be unjustified. It first examines Guido Pincione’s arguments for the conclusion that the permissibility of a bystander turning a runaway trolley from killing five people toward killing one other person instead may undermine one moral argument for political libertarianism and against redistributive taxation, namely that we may not harm some people in order to help others to a greater degree. It then considers both the bearing on Pincione’s argument of recent objections to the permissibility of turning the trolley, as well as the soundness of the objections. Finally, the essay considers the relevance of trolley cases for developing a theory of aggression, insofar as aggression is the unjustified use of force that is either foreseen or intended.
Remarks on some European names in the Syriac life of Mār Yaḇalāhā
Authors: DE BLOIS FRANÇOIS
Published: April 2016

The biography of the Nestorian patriarch Mār Yaḇalāhā III and of his teacher Rabban Ṣawmā is a well-known book, arguably the most interesting historical work in Syriac, and an important source for the history of the Ilkhanate and its relations with Western Europe.
Saints of the Indus: The Rise of Islam in South Asia's Borderlands
Authors: WINK ANDRÉ
Published: April 2016

This paper summarises an argument I make at much greater length in the forthcoming fourth volume of my book Al-Hind: The Making of the Indo-Islamic World. For more detail and extensive footnotes and references I refer to the longer version.

The aim of this summary is to provide an outline of a new account of the rise of Islam in Sindh and more broadly the Indus borderlands — the latter comprise Sindh, Baluchistan, the Afghan tribal areas and the Kabul wilayat, Kafiristan (the later Nuristan), the western Panjab, and, to the east and south of the northernmost curve of the Indus river, the Kashmir valley and its surrounding mountain zone. With the exception of about half of the Afghan tribal lands which are part of Afghanistan and the valley of Kashmir which is part of India today, this area is broadly coterminous with Pakistan minus Lahore.
High-resolution signal processing techniques for through-the-wall imaging radar systems
Authors: Turk Ahmet Serdar , Ozkan-Bakbak Pinar , Durak-Ata Lutfiye , Orhan Melek , Unal Mehmet
Published: April 2016

Through-the-Wall Imaging is an ever-expanding area in which processing time, scanning time, vertical, and horizontal resolutions have been tried to improve. In this study, several methods are investigated to obtain efficient reconstruction of through-the-wall imaging radar signals with high resolution. Microwave radar signals, which are produced in YTU Microwave Laboratory, are processed by compressive sensing (CS). B and C scanned reflection data samples collected between 1 and 7 GHz frequency band are taken randomly at 1/4, 1/2 of whole amount and reconstructed by CS method. Considering the signal structure, 10 and 20 compressible Fourier coefficients are taken through CS to analyze the difference between them. In addition, we applied synthetic aperture radar (SAR) processing, also combined with SAR-Multiple Signal Classification over raw data. Experimental performance results are given and shown in the figures with high quality.
Treatment of acute lower limb ischaemia
Authors: Lukasiewicz Aleksander
Published: April 2016

Abstract. Acute lower limb ischaemia poses a major threat to limb survival. For many years surgical thromboembolectomy was the mainstay of treatment. Recent years have brought an endovascular revolution in the management of acute lower limb ischaemia. A wide range of endovascular procedures can nowadays be employed, providing results at least as good as the traditional surgical approach. This paper is an overview of currently utilised endovascular options as well as recent modifications of standard surgical techniques.
Surgical management of extracranial carotid artery aneurysms
Authors: Skóra Jan Paweł , Kurcz Jacek , Korta Krzysztof , Szyber Przemysław , Dorobisz Tadeusz Andrzej , Dorobisz Andrzej Tadeusz
Published: April 2016

Abstract. Background: We present the methods and results of the surgical management of extracranial carotid artery aneurysms (ECCA). Postoperative complications including early and late neurological events were analysed. Correlation between reconstruction techniques and morphology of ECCA was assessed in this retrospective study. Patients and methods: In total, 32 reconstructions of ECCA were performed in 31 symptomatic patients with a mean age of 59.2 (range 33 - 84) years. The causes of ECCA were divided among atherosclerosis (n = 25; 78.1 %), previous carotid endarterectomy with Dacron patch (n = 4; 12.5 %), iatrogenic injury (n = 2; 6.3 %) and infection (n = 1; 3.1 %). In 23 cases, intervention consisted of carotid bypass. Aneurysmectomy with end-to-end suture was performed in 4 cases. Aneurysmal resection with patching was done in 2 cases and aneurysmorrhaphy without patching in another 2 cases. In 1 case, ligature of the internal carotid artery (ICA) was required. Results: Technical success defined as the preservation of ICA patency was achieved in 31 cases (96.9 %). There was one perioperative death due to major stroke (3.1 %). Two cases of minor stroke occurred in the 30-day observation period (6.3 %). Three patients had a transient hypoglossal nerve palsy that subsided spontaneously (9.4 %). At a mean long-term follow-up of 68 months, there were no major or minor ipsilateral strokes or surgery-related deaths reported. In all 30 surviving patients (96.9 %), long-term clinical outcomes were free from ipsilateral neurological symptoms. Conclusions: Open surgery is a relatively safe method in the therapy of ECCA. Surgical repair of ECCAs can be associated with an acceptable major stroke rate and moderate minor stroke rate. Complication-free long-term outcomes can be achieved in as many as 96.9 % of patients. Aneurysmectomy with end-to-end anastomosis or bypass surgery can be implemented during open repair of ECCA.
Extending Recent Seismic Imaging Successes to South America
Authors: Ward Kevin , Delph Jonathan , Beck Susan
Published: April 2016

Ambient Noise Tomography Workshop (MIMOSA); Tucson, Arizona, 17–23 January 2016
Local innate immune responses in the vaccine adjuvant‐injected muscle
Authors: Liang Frank , Loré Karin
Published: April 2016

Inducing a high magnitude of antibodies, possibly in combination with T‐cell responses that offer epitope breadth over prolonged periods of time is likely a prerequisite for effective vaccines against severe diseases such as HIV‐1 infection, malaria and tuberculosis. A much better understanding of the innate immune mechanisms that are critical for inducing desired responses to vaccination would help in the design of novel vaccines. The majority of human vaccines are administered into the muscle. In this brief review, we focus on the initial innate immune events that occur locally at the site of intramuscular vaccine delivery, and how they are influenced by clinically approved vaccine adjuvants. In particular, the effects on cell mobilization, cell activation and vaccine antigen uptake are reviewed. Understanding how distinct adjuvants enhance and tailor vaccine responses would facilitate the selection of the best‐suited adjuvant to improve vaccine efficacy to a given pathogen.
Bacterioplankton niche partitioning in the use of phytoplankton-derived dissolved organic carbon: quantity is more important than quality
Authors: Sarmento Hugo , Morana Cédric , Gasol Josep M
Published: April 2016

Some prokaryotes are known to be specialized in the use of phytoplankton-derived dissolved organic carbon (DOCp) originated by exudation or cell lysis; however, direct quantification measurements are extremely rare. Several studies have described bacterial selectivity based on DOCp quality, but very few have focused on the quantity of DOCp, and the relative importance of each of these variables (for example, quantity versus quality) on prokaryote responses. We applied an adapted version of the MAR-FISH (microautoradiography coupled with catalyzed reporter deposition fluorescence in situ hybridization) protocol using radiolabelled exudates from axenic algal cultures to calculate a specialization index (d’) for large bacterioplankton phylogenetic groups using DOCp from different phytoplankton species and at different concentrations to elucidate to what extent the bacterial response to DOCp is driven by resource quantity (different DOCp concentrations) or by quality (DOCp from different phytoplankton species). All bacterial phylogenetic groups studied had lower d’ at higher DOCp concentration, indicating more generalist behavior at higher resource availabilities. Indeed, at increasing resource concentrations, most bacterial groups incorporated DOCp indiscriminately, regardless of its origin (or quality). At low resource concentrations, only some specialists were able to actively incorporate the various types of organic matter effectively. The variability of bacterial responses to different treatments was systematically higher at varying concentrations than at varying DOCp types, suggesting that, at least for this range of concentrations (10–100 μM), DOCp quantity affects bacterial responses more than quality does. Therefore, resource quantity may be more relevant than resource quality in the bacterial responses to DOCp and affect how bacterioplankton use phytoplankton-derived carbon.
Ancestral genome reconstruction identifies the evolutionary basis for trait acquisition in polyphosphate accumulating bacteria
Authors: Oyserman Ben O , Moya Francisco , Lawson Christopher E , Garcia Antonio L , Vogt Mark , Heffernen Mitchell , Noguera Daniel R , McMahon Katherine D
Published: April 2016

The evolution of complex traits is hypothesized to occur incrementally. Identifying the transitions that lead to extant complex traits may provide a better understanding of the genetic nature of the observed phenotype. A keystone functional group in wastewater treatment processes are polyphosphate accumulating organisms (PAOs), however the evolution of the PAO phenotype has yet to be explicitly investigated and the specific metabolic traits that discriminate non-PAO from PAO are currently unknown. Here we perform the first comprehensive investigation on the evolution of the PAO phenotype using the model uncultured organism Candidatus Accumulibacter phosphatis (Accumulibacter) through ancestral genome reconstruction, identification of horizontal gene transfer, and a kinetic/stoichiometric characterization of Accumulibacter Clade IIA. The analysis of Accumulibacter’s last common ancestor identified 135 laterally derived genes, including genes involved in glycogen, polyhydroxyalkanoate, pyruvate and NADH/NADPH metabolisms, as well as inorganic ion transport and regulatory mechanisms. In contrast, pathways such as the TCA cycle and polyphosphate metabolism displayed minimal horizontal gene transfer. We show that the transition from non-PAO to PAO coincided with horizontal gene transfer within Accumulibacter’s core metabolism; likely alleviating key kinetic and stoichiometric bottlenecks, such as anaerobically linking glycogen degradation to polyhydroxyalkanoate synthesis. These results demonstrate the utility of investigating the derived genome of a lineage to identify key transitions leading to an extant complex phenotype.
Functionalization mediates heat transport in graphene nanoflakes
Authors: Han Haoxue , Zhang Yong , Wang Nan , Samani Majid Kabiri , Ni Yuxiang , Mijbil Zainelabideen Y. , Edwards Michael , Xiong Shiyun , Sääskilahti Kimmo , Murugesan Murali , Fu Yifeng , Ye Lilei , Sadeghi Hatef , Bailey Steven , Kosevich Yuriy A. , Lambert Colin J. , Liu Johan , Volz Sebastian
Published: April 2016

The high thermal conductivity of graphene and few-layer graphene undergoes severe degradations through contact with the substrate. Here we show experimentally that the thermal management of a micro heater is substantially improved by introducing alternative heat-escaping channels into a graphene-based film bonded to functionalized graphene oxide through amino-silane molecules. Using a resistance temperature probe for in situ monitoring we demonstrate that the hotspot temperature was lowered by ∼28 °C for a chip operating at 1,300 W cm−2. Thermal resistance probed by pulsed photothermal reflectance measurements demonstrated an improved thermal coupling due to functionalization on the graphene–graphene oxide interface. Three functionalization molecules manifest distinct interfacial thermal transport behaviour, corroborating our atomistic calculations in unveiling the role of molecular chain length and functional groups. Molecular dynamics simulations reveal that the functionalization constrains the cross-plane phonon scattering, which in turn enhances in-plane heat conduction of the bonded graphene film by recovering the long flexural phonon lifetime.
Ultraflexible organic amplifier with biocompatible gel electrodes
Authors: Sekitani Tsuyoshi , Yokota Tomoyuki , Kuribara Kazunori , Kaltenbrunner Martin , Fukushima Takanori , Inoue Yusuke , Sekino Masaki , Isoyama Takashi , Abe Yusuke , Onodera Hiroshi , Someya Takao
Published: April 2016

In vivo electronic monitoring systems are promising technology to obtain biosignals with high spatiotemporal resolution and sensitivity. Here we demonstrate the fabrication of a biocompatible highly conductive gel composite comprising multi-walled carbon nanotube-dispersed sheet with an aqueous hydrogel. This gel composite exhibits admittance of 100 mS cm−2 and maintains high admittance even in a low-frequency range. On implantation into a living hypodermal tissue for 4 weeks, it showed a small foreign-body reaction compared with widely used metal electrodes. Capitalizing on the multi-functional gel composite, we fabricated an ultrathin and mechanically flexible organic active matrix amplifier on a 1.2-μm-thick polyethylene-naphthalate film to amplify (amplification factor: ∼200) weak biosignals. The composite was integrated to the amplifier to realize a direct lead epicardial electrocardiography that is easily spread over an uneven heart tissue.
Quantum Einstein-de Haas effect
Authors: Ganzhorn Marc , Klyatskaya Svetlana , Ruben Mario , Wernsdorfer Wolfgang
Published: April 2016

The classical Einstein-de Haas experiment demonstrates that a change of magnetization in a macroscopic magnetic object results in a mechanical rotation of this magnet. This experiment can therefore be considered as a macroscopic manifestation of the conservation of total angular momentum and energy of electronic spins. Since the conservation of angular momentum is a consequence of a system’s rotational invariance, it is valid for an ensemble of spins in a macroscopic ferromaget as well as for single spins. Here we propose an experimental realization of an Einstein-de Haas experiment at the single-spin level based on a single-molecule magnet coupled to a nanomechanical resonator. We demonstrate that the spin associated with the single-molecule magnet is then subject to conservation of total angular momentum and energy, which results in a total suppression of the molecule’s quantum tunnelling of magnetization.
RhoA determines lineage fate of mesenchymal stem cells by modulating CTGF–VEGF complex in extracellular matrix
Authors: Li Changjun , Zhen Gehua , Chai Yu , Xie Liang , Crane Janet L. , Farber Emily , Farber Charles R. , Luo Xianghang , Gao Peisong , Cao Xu , Wan Mei
Published: April 2016

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) participate in the repair/remodelling of many tissues, where MSCs commit to different lineages dependent on the cues in the local microenvironment. Here we show that TGFβ-activated RhoA/ROCK signalling functions as a molecular switch regarding the fate of MSCs in arterial repair/remodelling after injury. MSCs differentiate into myofibroblasts when RhoA/ROCK is turned on, endothelial cells when turned off. The former is pathophysiologic resulting in intimal hyperplasia, whereas the latter is physiological leading to endothelial repair. Further analysis revealed that MSC RhoA activation promotes formation of an extracellular matrix (ECM) complex consisting of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Inactivation of RhoA/ROCK in MSCs induces matrix metalloproteinase-3-mediated CTGF cleavage, resulting in VEGF release and MSC endothelial differentiation. Our findings uncover a novel mechanism by which cell–ECM interactions determine stem cell lineage specificity and offer additional molecular targets to manipulate MSC-involved tissue repair/regeneration.
Effects of cyclone-generated disturbance on a tropical reef foraminifera assemblage
Authors: Strotz Luke C. , Mamo Briony L. , Dominey-Howes Dale
Published: April 2016

The sedimentary record and associated micropalaeontological proxies, is one tool that has been employed to quantify a region’s tropical cyclone history. Doing so has largely relied on the identification of allochthonous deposits (sediments and microfossils), sourced from deeper water and entrained by tropical cyclone waves and currents, in a shallow-water or terrestrial setting. In this study, we examine microfossil assemblages before and after a known tropical cyclone event (Cyclone Hamish) with the aim to better resolve the characteristics of this known signal. Our results identify no allochthonous material associated with Cyclone Hamish. Instead, using a swathe of statistical tools typical of ecological studies but rarely employed in the geosciences, we identify new, previously unidentified, signal types. These signals include a homogenising effect, with the level of differentiation between sample sites greatly reduced immediately following Cyclone Hamish and discernible shifts in assemblage diversity. In the subsequent years following Hamish, the surface assemblage returns to its pre-cyclone form, but results imply that it is unlikely the community ever reaches steady state.
Infra-red photoresponse of mesoscopic NiO-based solar cells sensitized with PbS quantum dot
Authors: Raissi Mahfoudh , Pellegrin Yann , Jobic Stéphane , Boujtita Mohammed , Odobel Fabrice
Published: April 2016

Sensitized NiO based photocathode is a new field of investigation with increasing scientific interest in relation with the development of tandem dye-sensitized solar cells (photovoltaic) and dye-sensitized photoelectrosynthetic cells (solar fuel). We demonstrate herein that PbS quantum dots (QDs) represent promising inorganic sensitizers for NiO-based quantum dot-sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs). The solar cell sensitized with PbS quantum dot exhibits significantly higher photoconversion efficiency than solar cells sensitized with a classical and efficient molecular sensitizer (P1 dye = 4-(Bis-{4-[5-(2,2-dicyano-vinyl)-thiophene-2-yl]-phenyl}-amino)-benzoic acid). Furthermore, the system features an IPCE (Incident Photon-to-Current Efficiency) spectrum that spreads into the infra-red region, reaching operating wavelengths of 950 nm. The QDSSC photoelectrochemical device works with the complexes tris(4,4′-ditert-butyl-2,2′-bipyridine)cobalt(III/II) redox mediators, underscoring the formation of a long-lived charge-separated state. The electrochemical impedance spectrocopy measurements are consistent with a high packing of the QDs upon the NiO surface, the high density of which limits the access of the electrolyte and results in favorable light absorption cross-sections and a significant hole lifetime. These notable results highlight the potential of NiO-based photocathodes sensitized with quantum dots for accessing and exploiting the low-energy part of the solar spectrum in photovoltaic and photocatalysis applications.
Erratum: Increased resting state connectivity between ipsilesional motor cortex and contralesional premotor cortex after transcranial direct current stimulation with physical therapy
Authors: Chen Joyce L. , Schlaug Gottfried
Published: April 2016

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 23271; published online: 16 March 2016; updated: 29 April 2016. In the HTML version of this Article, Gottfried Schlaug is incorrectly listed as being affiliated with ‘Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Sciences Institute University of Toronto Toronto, Ontario, Canada’.
In vivo assembly of DNA-fragments in the moss, Physcomitrella patens
Authors: King Brian Christopher , Vavitsas Konstantinos , Ikram Nur Kusaira Binti Khairul , Schrøder Josephine , Scharff Lars B. , Bassard Jean-Étienne , Hamberger Björn , Jensen Poul Erik , Simonsen Henrik Toft
Published: April 2016

Direct assembly of multiple linear DNA fragments via homologous recombination, a phenomenon known as in vivo assembly or transformation associated recombination, is used in biotechnology to assemble DNA constructs ranging in size from a few kilobases to full synthetic microbial genomes. It has also enabled the complete replacement of eukaryotic chromosomes with heterologous DNA. The moss Physcomitrella patens, a non-vascular and spore producing land plant (Bryophyte), has a well-established capacity for homologous recombination. Here, we demonstrate the in vivo assembly of multiple DNA fragments in P. patens with three examples of effective genome editing: we (i) efficiently deleted a genomic locus for diterpenoid metabolism yielding a biosynthetic knockout, (ii) introduced a salt inducible promoter, and (iii) re-routed endogenous metabolism into the formation of amorphadiene, a precursor of high-value therapeutics. These proof-of-principle experiments pave the way for more complex and increasingly flexible approaches for large-scale metabolic engineering in plant biotechnology.
Traumatic insemination and female counter-adaptation in Strepsiptera (Insecta)
Authors: Peinert Miriam , Wipfler Benjamin , Jetschke Gottfried , Kleinteich Thomas , Gorb Stanislav N. , Beutel Rolf G. , Pohl Hans
Published: April 2016

In a few insect groups, males pierce the female’s integument with their penis during copulation to transfer sperm. This so-called traumatic insemination was previously confirmed for Strepsiptera but only in species with free-living females. The more derived endoparasitic groups (Stylopidia) were suggested to exhibit brood canal mating. Further, it was assumed that females mate once and that pheromone production ceases immediately thereafter. Here we examined Stylops ovinae to provide details of the mating behaviour within Stylopidia. By using μCT imaging of Stylops in copula, we observed traumatic insemination and not, as previously suggested, brood canal mating. The penis is inserted in an invagination of the female cephalothorax and perforates its cuticle. Further we show that female Stylops are polyandrous and that males detect the mating status of the females. Compared to other strepsipterans the copulation is distinctly prolonged. This may reduce the competition between sperm of the first mating male with sperm from others. We describe a novel paragenital organ of Stylops females, the cephalothoracic invagination, which we suggest to reduce the cost of injuries. In contrast to previous interpretations we postulate that the original mode of traumatic insemination was maintained after the transition from free-living to endoparasitic strepsipteran females.
Ultrafast Band Engineering and Transient Spin Currents in Antiferromagnetic Oxides
Authors: Gu Mingqiang , Rondinelli James M.
Published: April 2016

We report a dynamic structure and band engineering strategy with experimental protocols to induce indirect-to-direct band gap transitions and coherently oscillating pure spin-currents in three-dimensional antiferromagnets (AFM) using selective phononic excitations. In the Mott insulator LaTiO3, we show that a photo-induced nonequilibrium phonon mode amplitude destroys the spin and orbitally degenerate ground state, reduces the band gap by 160 meV and renormalizes the carrier masses. The time scale of this process is a few hundreds of femtoseconds. Then in the hole-doped correlated metallic titanate, we show how pure spin-currents can be achieved to yield spin-polarizations exceeding those observed in classic semiconductors. Last, we demonstrate the generality of the approach by applying it to the non-orbitally degenerate AFM CaMnO3. These results advance our understanding of electron-lattice interactions in structures out-of-equilibrium and establish a rational framework for designing dynamic phases that may be exploited in ultrafast optoelectronic and optospintronic devices.
Global and local oscillatory entrainment of visual behavior across retinotopic space
Authors: Sokoliuk Rodika , VanRullen Rufin
Published: April 2016

Ongoing brain oscillations (7–10 Hz) modulate visual perception; in particular, their precise phase can predict target perception. Here, we employ this phase-dependence of perception in a psychophysical experiment to track spatial properties of entrained oscillations of visual perception across the visual field. Is this entrainment local, or a more global phenomenon? If the latter, does oscillatory phase synchronize over space, or vary with increasing distance from the oscillatory source? We presented a disc stimulus in the upper left quadrant, oscillating in luminance at different frequencies (individual alpha frequency (IAF), 5 Hz and 15 Hz) to entrain an oscillation with specific frequency and spatial origin. Observers fixated centrally, while flash stimuli at perceptual threshold appeared at different positions and times with respect to the oscillating stimulus. IAF and 5 Hz luminance oscillations modulated detection performance at all tested positions, whereas at 15 Hz, the effect was weaker and less consistent. Furthermore, for IAF and 5 Hz entrainment, preferred phases for target detection differed significantly between spatial locations, suggesting “local” entrainment of detection performance next to the oscillatory source, whereas more distant target locations shared a “global” effect with a significantly different phase. This unexpected global component of entrainment is tentatively attributed to widespread connectivity from thalamic nuclei such as the pulvinar.
Paracrine Factors from Irradiated Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells Improve Skin Regeneration and Angiogenesis in a Porcine Burn Model
Authors: Hacker Stefan , Mittermayr Rainer , Nickl Stefanie , Haider Thomas , Lebherz-Eichinger Diana , Beer Lucian , Mitterbauer Andreas , Leiss Harald , Zimmermann Matthias , Schweiger Thomas , Keibl Claudia , Hofbauer Helmut , Gabriel Christian , Pavone-Gyöngyösi Mariann , Redl Heinz , Tschachler Erwin , Mildner Michael , Ankersmit Hendrik Jan
Published: April 2016

Burn wounds pose a serious threat to patients and often require surgical treatment. Skin grafting aims to achieve wound closure but requires a well-vascularized wound bed. The secretome of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) has been shown to improve wound healing and angiogenesis. We hypothesized that topical application of the PBMC secretome would improve the quality of regenerating skin, increase angiogenesis, and reduce scar formation after burn injury and skin grafting in a porcine model. Full-thickness burn injuries were created on the back of female pigs. Necrotic areas were excised and the wounds were covered with split-thickness mesh skin grafts. Wounds were treated repeatedly with either the secretome of cultured PBMCs (SecPBMC), apoptotic PBMCs (Apo-SecPBMC), or controls. The wounds treated with Apo-SecPBMC had an increased epidermal thickness, higher number of rete ridges, and more advanced epidermal differentiation than controls. The samples treated with Apo-SecPBMC had a two-fold increase in CD31+ cells, indicating more angiogenesis. These data suggest that the repeated application of Apo-SecPBMC significantly improves epidermal thickness, angiogenesis, and skin quality in a porcine model of burn injury and skin grafting.
Neurodevelopmental delay among children under the age of three years at immunization clinics in Lagos State, Nigeria – Preliminary report
Authors: Bakare Muideen O. , Bello-Mojeed Mashudat A. , Munir Kerim M. , Ogun Oluwayemi C. , Eaton Julian
Published: April 2016

Late diagnosis and interventions characterize childhood neurodevelopmental disorders in Sub-Saharan Africa. This has negatively impacted on the prognosis of the children with neurodevelopmental disorders. This study examined the prevalence and pattern of neurodevelopmental delays among children under the age of 3 years attending immunization clinics in Lagos State, Nigeria and also affords opportunity of early follow-up and interventions, which had been documented to improve prognosis. The study involved two stage assessments; which consisted of first phase screening of the children for neurodevelopmental delays in immunization clinics at primary healthcare centers Lagos State, Nigeria and second phase which consists of definitive clinical evaluation and follow-up interventions for children screened positive for neurodevelopmental delays. Twenty seven (0.9%) of a total of 3,011 children under the age of 3 years were screened positive for neurodevelopmental delays and subsequently undergoing clinical evaluation and follow-up interventions. Preliminary working diagnoses among these children include cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorder trait, nutritional deficiency, Down syndrome and Non-specific neurodevelopmental delay with co-morbid seizure disorder accounting for 33.3%, 14.8%, 18.5%, 7.4% and 25.9% respectively. This is a preliminary report that would be followed up with information on medium and long term intervention phase.
Erratum: Tumour angiogenesis as a chemo-mechanical surface instability
Authors: Giverso Chiara , Ciarletta Pasquale
Published: April 2016

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 22610; published online: 07 March 2016; updated: 29 April 2016. This Article contains typographical errors. In Equation 12, should read: In the Acknowledgements section, “This work is funded by the AIRC MFAG grant 17412, partially supported by partially supported by the “Start-up Packages and PhD Program” project”.
Proteome analysis of human amniotic mesenchymal stem cells (hA-MSCs) reveals impaired antioxidant ability, cytoskeleton and metabolic functionality in maternal obesity
Authors: Capobianco Valentina , Caterino Marianna , Iaffaldano Laura , Nardelli Carmela , Sirico Angelo , Del Vecchio Luigi , Martinelli Pasquale , Pastore Lucio , Pucci Pietro , Sacchetti Lucia
Published: April 2016

Maternal obesity increases the risk of obesity and/or obesity-related diseases in the offspring of animal models. The aim of this study was to identify metabolic dysfunctions that could represent an enhanced risk for human obesity or obesity-related diseases in newborn or in adult life, similar to what occurs in animal models. To this aim, we studied the proteome of 12 obese (Ob-) and 6 non-obese (Co-) human amniotic mesenchymal stem cells (hA-MSCs) obtained from women at delivery by cesarean section (pre-pregnancy body mass index [mean ± SD]: 42.7 ± 7.7 and 21.3 ± 3.3 kg/m2, respectively). The proteome, investigated by two-dimensional fluorescence difference gel electrophoresis/mass spectrometry, revealed 62 differently expressed proteins in Ob- vs Co-hA-MSCs (P < 0.05), nine of which were confirmed by western blotting. Bioinformatics analysis showed that these 62 proteins are involved in several statistically significant pathways (P < 0.05), including the stress response, cytoskeleton and metabolic pathways. Oxidative stress was shown to be an early triggering factor of tissue fat accumulation and obesity-related disorders in the offspring of obese animal models. Our finding of a reduced stress response in Ob-hA-MSCs suggests that a similar mechanism could occur also in humans. Long-term follow-up studies of newborns of obese mothers are required to verify this hypothesis.
Identification and characterisation of the immune response properties of Lampetra japonica BLNK
Authors: Han Yinglun , Liu Xin , Shi Biyue , Xiao Rong , Gou Meng , Wang Hao , Li Qingwei
Published: April 2016

B cell linker protein (BLNK) is a central linker protein involved in B cell signal transduction in jawed vertebrates. In a previous study, we have reported the identification of a BLNK homolog named Lj-BLNK in lampreys. In this study, a 336 bp cDNA fragment encoding the Lj-BLNK Src homology 2 (SH2) domain was cloned into the vector pET-28a(+) and overexpressed in Escherichia coli BL21. The recombinant fragment of Lj-BLNK (rLj-BLNK) was purifiedby His-Bind affinity chromatography and polyclonal antibodies against rLj-BLNK were raised in male New Zealand rabbits. Fluorescenceactivated cell sorting (FACS) analysisrevealed that Lj-BLNK was expressed in approximately 48% of the lymphocyte-like cells of control lampreys and a significant increase in Lj-BLNK expression was observed in lampreys stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Western blotting analysis showed that variable lymphocyte receptor B (VLRB) and Lj-BLNKwere distributed in the same immune-relevant tissues and the levels of both were upregulated in supraneural myeloid bodies and lymphocyte-like cells after LPS stimulation. Immunofluorescence demonstrated that Lj-BLNK was localized in VLRB+ lymphocyte-like cells. These results indicate that the Lj-BLNK protein identified in lampreys might play an important role in the VLRB-mediated adaptive immune response.
Highly selective separation of dyes using compressed CO2 and spherical polyelectrolyte brushes
Authors: Zhang Rui , Yu Zhenchuan , Cang Yu , Hou Xiaoyan , Shen Zheqi , Deng Jie , Zhou Zhiming , Guo Xuhong , Wang Junwei , Zhu Xuedong
Published: April 2016

The process of PS-PAA brush adsorbs dyes selectively and separates the aggregation assisted by the compressed CO2. With the help of NaCl solution, PS-PAA is regenerated and retains high adsorption capacity even after five times.
Integration of a guided-mode resonance filter with microposts for in-cell protein detection
Authors: Tu Yi-Kai , Tsai Meng-Zhe , Lee I-Chin , Hsu Hsin-Yun , Huang Cheng-Sheng
Published: April 2016

The integration of a label-free biosensor of a guided-mode resonance filter and a microfluidic channel with a micropost filter.
Employment of electrostatic interactions for amperometric detection of carbon nanoparticles in a FIA system
Authors: Ogończyk D. , Gocyla M. , Opallo M.
Published: April 2016

The development of methods for nanoparticle detection is highly desirable due to their increasing presence in the environment.
Contribution of convection and diffusion to the cascade reaction kinetics of β-galactosidase/glucose oxidase confined in a microchannel
Authors: Wu Zeng-Qiang , Li Zhong-Qiu , Li Jin-Yi , Gu Jing , Xia Xing-Hua
Published: April 2016

This study describes the contribution of convection and diffusion to a cascade reaction of β-Gal/GOx confined in a microchannel.
Microjets and coated wheels: versatile tools for exploring collisions and reactions at gas–liquid interfaces
Authors: Faust Jennifer A. , Nathanson Gilbert M.
Published: April 2016

Scattering experiments using liquid microjets provide a window into collisions and reactions at the surfaces of high vapor pressure liquids.
A low-temperature method for measuring oxygen storage capacity of ceria-containing oxides
Authors: Porsin A. V. , Alikin E. A. , Bukhtiyarov V. I.
Published: April 2016

Addition of Pt/Al2O3 to a ceria-containing oxide allows studying oxygen storage capacity at lower temperatures. The advantage is achieved through separation of functions of oxygen storage/release and CO oxidation.
Auxiliary ligand field dominated single-molecule magnets of a series of indole-derivative β-diketone mononuclear Dy(iii) complexes
Authors: Dong Yanping , Yan Pengfei , Zou Xiaoyan , Yao Xu , Hou Guangfeng , Li Guangming
Published: April 2016

A series of β-diketone dysprosium complexes exhibit SMM properties tuned by the whole ligand field in terms of the strength of the ligand field, conjugated system and coordination symmetry around Dy(iii).
Ethynyl benziodoxolones: functional terminators for cell-penetrating poly(disulfide)s
Authors: Morelli Paola , Martin-Benlloch Xavier , Tessier Romain , Waser Jerome , Sakai Naomi , Matile Stefan
Published: April 2016

Hypervalent iodine terminators are introduced to secure synthetic access to doubly-labeled cell-penetrating poly(disulfide)s.
Orthogonal cleavage of the 2-naphthylmethyl group in the presence of the p-methoxy phenyl-protected anomeric position and its use in carbohydrate synthesis
Authors: Cattaneo Vittorio , Oldrini Davide , Corrado Alessio , Berti Francesco , Adamo Roberto
Published: April 2016

Orthogonal removal of naphthylmethyl (NAP) and anomericO-p-methoxyphenyl (PMP) ethers using 2,3-dichloro-5,6-dicyano-1,4-benzoquinone and cerium(iv) ammonium nitrate, respectively, is described.
A new fully heterogeneous synthesis of pyrrole-2-acetic acid derivatives
Authors: Gabrielli Serena , Ciabattoni Ludovica , Sampaolesi Susanna , Ballini Roberto , Palmieri Alessandro
Published: April 2016

Herein, we present a new general and efficient protocol to synthesize pyrrole-2-acetic acid derivatives starting from pyrroles and β-nitroacrylates.
The crystallization behaviors and mechanical properties of poly(l-lactic acid)/magnesium oxide nanoparticle composites
Authors: Jia Junping , Yang Jinjun , Zhao Yun , Liang Hui , Chen Minfang
Published: April 2016

Nanocomposites of biodegradable PLLA and magnesium oxide composite (PLLA/MgO-NPs) and surface modified magnesium oxide composite (PLLA/m-MgO-NPs) were prepared using a solution casting method.
A novel method to modify the color of VO2-based thermochromic smart films by solution-processed VO2@SiO2@Au core–shell nanoparticles
Authors: Lu Xuanming , Xiao Xiudi , Cao Ziyi , Zhan Yongjun , Cheng Haoliang , Xu Gang
Published: April 2016

A facile solution process was developed to prepare VO2@SiO2@Au nanoparticles for color modification of VO2-based smart films.
A highly active and recyclable homogeneous NHC–palladium catalyst with pH- and light-sensitive tags for the Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reactions of aryl halides with arylboronic acids
Authors: Liu Guiyan , Liu Chengxin , Zhao Xia , Wang Jianhui
Published: April 2016

A highly active and recyclable homogeneous NHC–palladium catalyst for the Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reactions is reported. By making use of the pH- and light-sensitive SP tags, the catalyst can be recovered and reused nine times.
Correction: Global spectral and local molecular connects for optical coherence tomography features to classify oral lesions towards unravelling quantitative imaging biomarkers
Authors: Banerjee Satarupa , Chatterjee Swarnadip , Anura Anji , Chakrabarty Jitamanyu , Pal Mousumi , Ghosh Bhaskar , Paul Ranjan Rashmi , Sheet Debdoot , Chatterjee Jyotirmoy
Published: April 2016

Correction for ‘Global spectral and local molecular connects for optical coherence tomography features to classify oral lesions towards unravelling quantitative imaging biomarkers’ by Satarupa Banerjee et al., RSC Adv., 2016, 6, 7511–7520.
Correction: Preparation and characterization of interface-modified PLA/starch/PCL ternary blends using PLLA/triclosan antibacterial nanoparticles for medical applications
Authors: Davoodi Saeed , Oliaei Erfan , Davachi Seyed Mohammad , Hejazi Iman , Seyfi Javad , Heidari Behzad Shiroud , Ebrahimi Hossein
Published: April 2016

Correction for ‘Preparation and characterization of interface-modified PLA/starch/PCL ternary blends using PLLA/triclosan antibacterial nanoparticles for medical applications’ by Saeed Davoodi et al., RSC Adv., 2016, 6, 39870–39882.
Cas9 cleavage assay for pre-screening of sgRNAs using nicking triggered isothermal amplification
Authors: Zhang Kaixiang , Deng Ruijie , Li Yue , Zhang Ling , Li Jinghong
Published: April 2016

A novel Cas9 cleavage assay was developed for quantitative evaluation of Cas9 cleavage efficiency and pre-screening of sgRNA to achieve highly specific and highly efficient CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing.
REDV–polyethyleneimine complexes for selectively enhancing gene delivery in endothelial cells
Authors: Yang Jing , Liu Wen , Lv Juan , Feng Yakai , Ren Xiangkui , Zhang Wencheng
Published: April 2016

Gene therapy provides a new strategy for promoting endothelialization, and rapid endothelialization has attracted increasing attention for inhibiting thrombosis and restenosis in artificial vascular implants.
Light-responsive spiropyran based polymer thin films for use in organic field-effect transistor memories
Authors: Jeong Yong Jin , Yoo Eun Joo , Kim Lae Ho , Park Seonuk , Jang Jaeyoung , Kim Se Hyun , Lee Seung Woo , Park Chan Eon
Published: April 2016

Spiropyran-based polyimide compounds have been synthesized and utilized as polymer electret thin films for application in light-responsive organic field-effect transistor memories.
Biological effects, translocation, and metabolism of quantum dots in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Wang Dayong
Published: April 2016

We summarize recent progress on the biological effects, translocation, and metabolism of QDs in thein vivoassay system ofC. elegans.
Leucine alleviates dexamethasone-induced suppression of muscle protein synthesis via synergy involvement of mTOR and AMPK pathways
Authors: Wang Xiao J. , Yang Xin , Wang Ru X. , Jiao Hong C. , Zhao Jing P. , Song Zhi G. , Lin Hai
Published: April 2016

Glucocorticoids (GCs) are negative muscle protein regulators that contribute to the whole-body catabolic state during stress. Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)-signalling pathway, which acts as a central regulator of protein metabolism, can be activated by branched-chain amino acids (BCAA). In the present study, the effect of leucine on the suppression of protein synthesis induced by GCs and the pathway involved were investigated. In vitro experiments were conducted using cultured C2C12 myoblasts to study the effect of GCs on protein synthesis, and the involvement of mTOR pathway was investigated as well. After exposure to dexamethasone (DEX, 100 μmol/l) for 24 h, protein synthesis in muscle cells was significantly suppressed (P<0.05), the phosphorylations of mTOR, ribosomal protein S6 protein kinase 1 (p70s6k1) and eukaryotic initiation factor 4E binding protein 1 (4EBP1) were significantly reduced (P<0.05). Leucine supplementation (5 mmol/l, 10 mmol/l and 15 mmol/l) for 1 h alleviated the suppression of protein synthesis induced by DEX (P<0.05) and was accompanied with the increased phosphorylation of mTOR and decreased phosphorylation of AMPK (P<0.05). Branched-chain amino transferase 2 (BCAT2) mRNA level was not influenced by DEX (P>0.05) but was increased by leucine supplementation at a dose of 5 mmol/l (P<0.05).
4.2 GHz 0.81 mW triple‐modulus prescaler based on true single‐phase clock
Authors: Jiang Wenjian , Yu Fengqi
Published: April 2016

A dual‐modulus prescaler based on true single‐phase clock D flip‐flop is presented. Instead of using the conventional digital logic circuit, the pass transistor logic circuit is applied to reduce the number of the transistors and the power of the divider. By adding only two additional transistors, a dual‐modulus operation is achieved. Implemented in a standard 180 nm CMOS process, the proposed divide‐by 6/7/8 prescaler based on the proposed dual‐modulus one achieves an operating frequency of 4.2 GHz with a measured power consumption of 0.81 mW for a 1.2 V supply.
Surface plasmon resonance study on the optical sensing properties of tin oxide (SnO2) films to NH3 gas
Authors: Paliwal Ayushi , Sharma Anjali , Tomar Monika , Gupta Vinay
Published: April 2016

Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) technique is an easy and reliable method for detecting very low concentration of toxic gases at room temperature using a gas sensitive thin film layer. In the present work, a room temperature operated NH3 gas sensor has been developed using a laboratory assembled SPR measurement setup utilising a p-polarized He-Ne laser and prism coupling technique. A semiconducting gas sensitive tin oxide (SnO2) layer has been deposited under varying growth conditions (i.e., by varying deposition pressure) over the gold coated prism (BK-7) to excite the surface plasmon modes in Kretschmann configuration. The SPR reflectance curves for prism/Au/SnO2/air system for SnO2 thin films prepared at different sputtering pressure were measured, and the SnO2 film deposited at 10 mT pressure is found to exhibit a sharp SPR reflectance curve with minimum reflectance (0.32) at the resonance angle of 44.7° which is further used for sensing NH3 gas of different concentration at room temperature. The SPR reflectance curve shows a significant shift in resonance angle from 45.05° to 58.55° on interacting with NH3. The prepared sensor is found to give high sensing response (0.11) with high selectivity towards very low concentration of NH3 (0.5 ppm) and quick response time at room temperature.