bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Praline‐Like Flexible Interlayer with Highly Mounted Polysulfide Anchors for Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Zhao Teng , Ye Yusheng , Lao Cheng‐Yen , Divitini Giorgio , Coxon Paul R. , Peng Xiaoyu , He Xiong , Kim Hyun‐Kyung , Xi Kai , Ducati Caterina , Chen Renjie , Liu Yingjun , Ramakrishna Seeram , Kumar Ramachandran Vasant
Published: August 2017

The development of lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries is dogged by the rapid capacity decay arising from polysulfide dissolution and diffusion in organic electrolytes. To solve this critical issue, a praline‐like flexible interlayer consisting of high‐loading titanium oxide (TiO2) nanoparticles and relatively long carbon nanofibers is fabricated. TiO2 nanoparticles with a size gradient occupy both the external and internal of carbon fiber and serve as anchors that allow the chemical adsorption of polysulfides through a conductive nanoarchitecture. The porous conductive carbon backbone helps in the physical absorption of polysulfides and provides redox reaction sites to allow the polysulfides to be reused. More importantly, it offers enough mechanical strength to support a high load TiO2 nanoparticle (79 wt%) that maximizes their chemical role, and can accommodate the large volume changes. Significant enhancement in cycle stability and rate capability is achieved for a readily available sulfur/multi‐walled carbon nanotube composite cathode simply by incorporating this hierarchically nanostructured interlayer. The design and synthesis of interlayers by in situ integration of metal oxides and carbon fibers via a simple route offers the potential to advance Li–S batteries for practical applications in the future.
High Figure of Merit (FOM) of Bragg Modes in Au‐Coated Nanodisk Arrays for Plasmonic Sensing
Authors: Couture Maxime , Brulé Thibault , Laing Stacey , Cui Wenli , Sarkar Mitradeep , Charron Benjamin , Faulds Karen , Peng Wei , Canva Michael , Masson Jean‐Francois
Published: August 2017

Gold‐coated nanodisk arrays of nearly micron periodicity are reported that have high figure of merit (FOM) and sensitivity necessary for plasmonic refractometric sensing, with the added benefit of suitability for surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), large‐scale microfabrication using standard photolithographic techniques and a simple instrumental setup. Gold nanodisk arrays are covered with a gold layer to excite the Bragg modes (BM), which are the propagative surface plasmons localized by the diffraction from the disk array. This generates surface‐guided modes, localized as standing waves, leading to highly confined fields confirmed by a mapping of the SERS intensity and numerical simulations with 3D finite element method. The optimal gold‐coated nanodisk arrays are applied for refractometric sensing in transmission spectroscopy with better performance than nanohole arrays and they are integrated to a 96‐well plate reader for detection of IgY proteins in the nanometer range in PBS. The potential for sensing in biofluids is assessed with IgG detection in 1:1 diluted urine. The structure exhibits a high FOM of up to 46, exceeding the FOM of structures supporting surface plasmon polaritons and comparable to more complex nanostructures, demonstrating that subwavelength features are not necessary for high‐performance plasmonic sensing.
Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 4 Regulates Adult Neural Stem Cell Proliferation and Differentiation in Response to Insulin
Authors: Chirivella Laura , Kirstein Martina , Ferrón Sacri R. , Domingo-Muelas Ana , Durupt Fabrice C. , Acosta-Umanzor Carlos , Cano-Jaimez Marifé , Pérez-Sánchez Francisco , Barbacid Mariano , Ortega Sagrario , Burks Deborah J. , Fariñas Isabel
Published: August 2017

Insulin is one of the standard components used to culture primary neurospheres. Although it stimulates growth of different types of cells, the effects of insulin on adult neural stem cells (NSCs) have not been well characterized. Here, we reveal that insulin stimulates proliferation, but not survival or self-renewal, of adult NSCs. This effect is mediated by insulin receptor substrate 2 (IRS2) and subsequent activation of the protein kinase B (or Akt), leading to increased activity of the G1-phase cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (Cdk4) and cell cycle progression. Neurospheres isolated from Irs2-deficient mice are reduced in size and fail to expand in culture and this impaired proliferation is rescued by introduction of a constitutively active Cdk4 (Cdk4R24C/R24C). More interestingly, activation of the IRS2/Akt/Cdk4 signaling pathway by insulin is also necessary for the generation in vitro of neurons and oligodendrocytes from NSCs. Furthermore, the IRS2/Cdk4 pathway is also required for neuritogenesis, an aspect of neuronal maturation that has not been previously linked to regulation of the cell cycle. Differentiation of NSCs usually follows exit from the cell cycle due to increased levels of CDK-inhibitors which prevent activation of CDKs. In contrast, our data indicate that IRS2-mediated Cdk4 activity in response to a mitogen such as insulin promotes terminal differentiation of adult NSCs.
First‐trimester detection of abnormally invasive placenta in high‐risk women: systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: D'Antonio F. , Timor‐Tritsch I. E. , Palacios‐Jaraquemada J. , Monteagudo A. , Buca D. , Forlani F. , Minneci G. , Foti F. , Manzoli L. , Liberati M. , Acharya G. , Calì G.
Published: August 2017

Objectives

The primary aim of this systematic review was to ascertain whether ultrasound signs suggestive of abnormally invasive placenta (AIP) are present in the first trimester of pregnancy. Secondary aims were to ascertain the strength of association and the predictive accuracy of such signs in detecting AIP in the first trimester.

Methods

An electronic search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and Cochrane databases (2000–2016) was performed. Only studies reporting on first‐trimester diagnosis of AIP that was subsequently confirmed in the third trimester either during operative delivery or by pathological examination were included. Meta‐analysis of proportions, random‐effects meta‐analysis and hierarchical summary receiver–operating characteristics curve analysis were used to analyze the data.

Results

Seven studies, involving 551 pregnancies at high risk of AIP, were included. At least one ultrasound sign suggestive of AIP was detected in 91.4% (95% CI, 85.8–95.7%) of cases with confirmed AIP. The most common ultrasound feature in the first trimester of pregnancy was low implantation of the gestational sac close to a previous uterine scar, which was observed in 82.4% (95% CI, 46.6–99.8%) of cases. Anechoic spaces within the placental mass (lacunae) were observed in 46.0% (95% CI, 10.9–83.7%) and a reduced myometrial thickness in 66.8% (95% CI, 45.2–85.2%) of cases affected by AIP. Pregnancies with a low implantation of the gestational sac had a significantly higher risk of AIP (odds ratio, 19.6 (95% CI, 6.7–57.3)), with a sensitivity and specificity of 44.4% (95% CI, 21.5–69.2%) and 93.4% (95% CI, 90.5–95.7%), respectively.

Conclusions

Ultrasound signs of AIP can be present during the first trimester of pregnancy, even before 11 weeks' gestation. Low anterior implantation of the placenta/gestational sac close to or within the scar was the most commonly seen early ultrasound sign suggestive of AIP, although its individual predictive accuracy was not high. Copyright © 2017 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
A EuIII‐MOF with Bis(2‐carboxyethyl)isocyanurate for Luminescence Sensing of Fe3+ and SCN– Ions
Authors: Zhang Yanan , Zhang Peng , Yin Haiju , Cheng Jing , Kang Yifan
Published: August 2017

The water‐stable 3D lanthanide‐organic framework (Ln‐MOF) {[Eu(bci)(H2O)]·2H2O}n (1) [H2bci = bis(2‐carboxyethyl)isocyanurate] was synthesized under hydrothermal conditions. Compound 1‐Eu exhibits a 3D open‐framework connected by Eu–(μ‐O)2–Eu chains and bci ligands. Meanwhile, 1‐Eu exhibits highly efficient luminescent sensing for environmentally relevant Fe3+ and SCN– ions through luminescence quenching. These results indicated that it could be utilized as a multi‐responsive luminescence sensor.
Mating and aggressive behaviour of Brachyrhaphis olomina (Cyprinodontiformes: Poeciliidae)
Authors: Garita-Alvarado Carlos A. , Naranjo-Elizondo Beatriz , Barrantes Gilbert
Published: August 2017

Despite the increasing interest in the use of intromittent male genitalia and coercive mating behaviour in poeciliids, detailed studies of the mating behaviour of most species in this family are lacking. We describe here the mating and aggressive behaviours of Brachyrhaphis olomina, and correlate them with the condition of the female’s ovum and embryos (immature, mature and pregnant). B. olomina performed a wide range of aggressive (sidle spread, tail beating, coordinate) and mating behaviours (approximation, touch, lateral display, touch-lateral display). Some behaviours (e.g. tail beating) are shared with other poeciliids, but two sexual behaviours (touch and lateral display) and one aggressive (coordinate) behaviour may be unique to B. olomina and were not reported in a previous study. Differences in male behaviour when paired with a female with mature ovum (more mating displays, no agonistic movements) suggest that males detect the female’s reproductive condition from some distance. The distinctive nature of mating behaviour in B. olomina highlights the importance of studying different species to have a better understanding of the evolution of mating and aggressive behaviours in poeciliids. Digital video images related to the article are available at http://www.momo-p.com/showdetail-e.php?movieid=momo170720bo01a, http://www.momo-p.com/showdetail-e.php?movieid=momo170720bo02a and http://www.momo-p.com/showdetail-e.php?movieid=momo170720bo03a.
Risk Stratification in Multinodular Goiter: A Retrospective Review of Sonographic Features, Histopathological Results, and Cancer Risk
Authors: Kelly Brendan S. , Govender Pradeep , Jeffers Michael , Kinsella John , Gibney James , Sherlock Mark , Torreggiani William C.
Published: August 2017

Purpose

In the management of thyroid nodules, although the potential for malignancy exists, there is also the potential for overtreatment of subclinical disease. Although the TI-RADS (Thyroid Imaging-Reporting and Data System) system outlines a risk stratification score based on suspicious ultrasound findings, it has not been universally accepted. Many TI-RADS 2 or 3 patients proceed to fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB), potentially unnecessarily. The aim of the study was to identify whether lesions within a multinodular goiter (MNG) without suspicious features can be followed with ultrasound rather than biopsied as is recommended for single nodules.

Methods

Pathology records were retrospectively analysed for proven MNGs over a 5-year period. A total of 293 cases were identified. FNAB, prebiopsy ultrasound images, and reports were identified for each case. Images were reviewed and assessed for sonographically suspicious criteria guided by TI-RADS. Logistic regression was applied to determine if any sonographic features were associated with neoplasia. Odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were calculated.

Results

Of 293 samples, 14 (4.7%) were neoplastic. Having no suspicious features conferred an average risk of 0.0339 (95% confidence interval: 0.02831-0.04087) of neoplasia. Risk of neoplasm significantly increased by having 1 and >1 suspicious feature ( P < .001). Regarding cytological results, of 237 patients with Thy-2 cytology, 159 were followed up and 8 had a neoplasm.

Conclusion

Ultrasound can be used to estimate risk of neoplasia in MNG. In the absence of suspicious radiological findings, follow-up with ultrasound rather than FNAB may be appropriate in patients who have a low clinical suspicion for neoplasia.
The Positive Outcome of MRI-Guided Vacuum Assisted Core Needle Breast Biopsies is not Influenced by a Prior Negative Targeted Second-Look Ultrasound
Authors: Ferré Romuald , AlSharif Shaza , Aldis Ann , Mesurolle Benoît
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The study sought to investigate the outcome of breast magnetic resonance–guided biopsies as a function of the indication for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the MRI features of the lesions, and the performance or not of a targeted second-look ultrasound (SLUS) prior breast MRI-guided biopsy.

Methods

We identified 158 women with MRI-detected breast lesions scheduled for MRI-guided biopsy (2007-2013). Patient demographics, performance of targeted SLUS, imaging characteristics, and subsequent pathology results were reviewed.

Results

Three biopsies were deferred, and 155 lesions were biopsied under MRI guidance (155 women; median age 55.14 years; range 27-80 years). Ninety-eight women underwent a SLUS prior to the MRI-guided biopsy (63%). Of the 155 biopsied lesions, 23 (15%) were malignant, 106 (68%) were benign, and 26 (17%) were high risk. Four of 15 surgically excised high-risk lesions were upgraded to malignancy (27%). Most of the biopsied lesions corresponded to non–mass-like enhancement (81%, 126 of 155) and most of the biopsies (52%, 81 of 155) were performed in a screening context. No demographic or MRI features were associated with malignancy. No differences were noted between the 2 subgroups (prior SLUS vs no prior SLUS) except for the presence of a synchronous carcinoma associated with a likelihood of targeted SLUS before MRI-guided biopsy ( P = .001).

Conclusion

A negative SLUS does not influence the pathology outcome of a suspicious lesion biopsied under MR guidance.
Banking on a Religious Divide: Accounting for the Success of the Netherlands' Raiffeisen Cooperatives in the Crisis of the 1920s
Authors: Colvin Christopher L.
Published: August 2017

This article investigates the impact of the socioreligious segregation of Dutch society on the asset allocation choices of rural bankers and the withdrawal behavior of their depositors during the early 1920s. Results suggest that cooperatively-owned Raiffeisen banks for both Catholic and Protestant minority groups could limit their exposure to a debt-deflation crisis, despite operating more precarious balance sheets than banks for majorities. Business histories demonstrate how strict membership criteria and personal guarantors acted as screening and monitoring devices. Banks serving minorities functioned as club goods, managing their exposure to the crisis by exploiting the confessionalized nature of Dutch society.
Adapting to the Weather: Lessons from U.S. History
Authors: Bleakley Hoyt , Hong Sok Chul
Published: August 2017

An important unknown in understanding the impact of climate change is the scope of adaptation, which requires observations on historical time scales. We consider how weather across U.S. history (1860–2000) has affected various measures of productivity. Using cross-sectional and panel methods, we document significant responses of agricultural and individual productivity to weather. We find strong effects of hotter and wetter weather early in U.S. history, but these effects have generally been attenuated in recent decades. The results suggest that estimates from a given period may be of limited use in forecasting the longer-term impacts of climate change.
Institutional Inertia: Persistent Inefficient Institutions in Spain
Authors: Espín-Sánchez José-Antonio
Published: August 2017

In 1966, after more than 700 years, the irrigation community in Mula (Spain) switched from auctions to quotas to allocate water from its river. This change happened in the absence of either political or technological change. Quotas were more efficient, but required that farmers own water property rights. I develop a model in which poor farmers cannot credibly commit to purchase water rights. I show that empirical evidence on savings and prices is consistent with this interpretation. A temporary increase in output prices in the 1950s and better financial institutions allowed farmers to accumulate savings and solve the commitment problem.

“There is nothing more difficult to arrange, more doubtful of success, and more dangerous to carry through, than to initiate a new order of things.”

Niccolò Machiavelli,The Prince
Influence of Tillage on Common Ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia) Emergence Pattern in Nebraska
Authors: Barnes Ethann R. , Werle Rodrigo , Sandell Lowell D. , Lindquist John L. , Knezevic Stevan Z. , Sikkema Peter H. , Jhala Amit J.
Published: August 2017

Spring tillage is a component of an integrated weed management strategy for control of early emerging glyphosate-resistant weeds such as common ragweed; however, the effect of tillage on common ragweed emergence pattern is unknown. The objectives of this study were to evaluate whether spring tillage during emergence would influence the emergence pattern or stimulate additional emergence of common ragweed and to characterize common ragweed emergence in southeast Nebraska. A field experiment was conducted for three years (2014 to 2016) in Gage County, Nebraska in a field naturally infested with glyphosate-resistant common ragweed. Treatments consisted of a no-tillage control and three spring tillage timings. The Soil Temperature and Moisture Model (STM2) software was used to estimate soil temperature and moisture at a 2-cm depth. The Weibull function was fit to total common ragweed emergence (%) with day of year (DOY), thermal time, and hydrothermal time as independent variables. Tillage treatments and year had no effect on total common ragweed emergence (P=0.88 and 0.35, respectively) and time to 10, 25, 50, 75, and 90% emergence (P=0.31). However, emergence pattern was affected by year (P=<0.001) with 50% total emergence reached on May 5 in 2014, April 20 in 2015, and April 2 in 2016 and 90% total emergence reached on May 12, 2014, May 8, 2015, and April 30, 2016. According to the corrected information-theoretic model comparison criterion (AICc), the Weibull function with thermal time and base temperature of 3 C best explained the emergence pattern over three years. This study concludes that spring tillage does not stimulate additional emergence; therefore, after the majority of the common ragweed has emerged and before the crop has been planted, tillage could be used as an effective component of an integrated glyphosate-resistant common ragweed management program in Nebraska.
Healthier Lipid Profiles with Vitamin D Supplementation in a Pilot Study in Argentinean Children of Two Ethnicities
Authors: Hirschler Valeria , Molinari Claudia , Maccallini Gustavo , Hidalgo Mariana , Gonzalez Claudio
Published: August 2017

Abstract.Objective: to explore changes in lipid levels in two groups of children of different ethnicities who were able to access vitamin D supplementation versus those who were not. Methods: A prospective one-year study evaluated 87 San Antonio de los Cobres (SAC) Indigenous and 36 Buenos Aires (BA) urban schoolchildren aged 9.7 + 2.1 years between October 2013 and October 2014. SAC children included 70 (80.5%) treated with 100,000 IU/year of vitamin D and 17 (19.5%) untreated; and BA children included 25 (69,5%) treated and 11(30.5%) untreated. BMI, lipids, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations were measured at baseline and after one year. Results: There was a significantly lower prevalence of overweight/obesity in SAC (n = 7; 8%) versus BA (n = 7; 36.4%) children. There was a significant association between changes in (25(OH)D) and changes in HDL-C levels in SAC (r0.44;p < 0.01) and in BA (r0.34;p < 0.05). Multiple linear regression analyses showed that changes in (25(OH)D ) were significantly associated with changes in HDL-C in SAC (Beta = 0.55, p = 0.02; R20.11) and BA children (Beta = 0.42, p = 0.04; R2 0.21) adjusted for age, gender, and BMI. Furthermore, multiple logistic regression analysis showed that children in the treated group had a likelihood six times greater of having HDL-C >40 mg/dL than the untreated group, adjusted for age, gender, and BMI (OR 6.3: CI 2.0 – 19.8; p < 0.01). Conclusion: These results suggest that children who had received vitamin D supplementation had significantly higher vitamin D status and HDL-C, as compared with non-supplemented children in both communities.
First Sociodemographic, Pretreatment and Clinical Data from a German Web-Based Registry for Child and Adolescent Anorexia Nervosa
Authors: Bühren Katharina , Herpertz-Dahlmann Beate , Dempfle Astrid , Becker Katja , Egberts Karin M. , Ehrlich Stefan , Fleischhaker Christian , von Gontard Alexander , Hahn Freia , Jaite Charlotte , Kaess Michael , Legenbauer Tanja , Renner Tobias J. , Schrötter Ellen , Schulze Ulrike , Sinzig Judith , Antony Gisela , Hebebrand Johannes , Föcker Manuel
Published: August 2017

Abstract. Objective: The first web-based registry for childhood and adolescent anorexia nervosa (AN) in Germany was established to systematically collect demographic and clinical data. These data as well as information on how young individuals with AN can find access to healthcare services are presented. Method: Patients´ data from child and adolescent psychiatry departments of 12 university hospitals and two major nonuniversity hospitals in Germany were collected between January 2015 and December 2016. All patients met the ICD-10 diagnostic criteria for (atypical) AN. Sociodemographic data, type and amount of healthcare utilization before admission, and clinical data at admission and discharge were compiled. Results: 258 patients with a mean age of 14.7 years and a mean BMI at admission of 15.3 kg/m2were included. The parents and patients had a higher educational level than the general German population. More than 80 % of the patients reported having utilized healthcare before hospitalization. The mean duration of outpatient treatment before hospitalization was 7 months. Conclusions: There seem to be major barriers to specialist treatment for young patients with AN in Germany, which should be analyzed in future studies.
Erratum: MicroRNA-122 ameliorates corneal allograft rejection through the downregulation of its target CPEB1
Authors: Wang Ting , Li Fengjie , Geng Wenwen , Ruan Qingguo , Shi Weiyun
Published: August 2017

Correction to: Cell Death Discovery (2017) 3, 17021; doi:10.1038/cddiscovery.2017.21; published online 15 May 2017 Since the publication of this paper, the authors realised that they had not included the funding information for the work. The necessary funding information is as follows: This work wassupported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China, Beijing, China (81470611, 81530027, and 81471554); the National Basic Research Program of China, Beijing, China (2013CB967004); the Taishan Scholar Program Phase II, Jinan, China (ts20150215); the Shandong Province Key Research and Development Program, Jinan, China (2015GGH318010); the Innovation Project of Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences; and the Shenzhen Municipal Science and Technology Innovation Committee (JCYJ20160531185449995).
Correction: Corrigendum: The extracellular interactome of the human adenovirus family reveals diverse strategies for immunomodulation
Authors: Martinez-Martin Nadia , Ramani Sree R. , Hackney Jason A. , Tom Irene , Wranik Bernd J. , Chan Michelle , Wu Johnny , Paluch Maciej T. , Takeda Kentaro , Hass Philip E. , Clark Hilary , Gonzalez Lino C.
Published: August 2017

Nature Communications 7: Article number: 11473 (2016); Published: 5 May 2016; Updated: 21 August 2017 In Supplementary Fig. 3 of this Article, the sequence given for CR1B_HAdV-D19a in the alignment shown is incorrect, and should have been identical to that listed for CR1B_HAdV-D37. A correct versionof Supplementary Fig.
CDYL suppresses epileptogenesis in mice through repression of axonal Nav1.6 sodium channel expression
Authors: Liu Yongqing , Lai Shirong , Ma Weining , Ke Wei , Zhang Chan , Liu Shumeng , Zhang Yu , Pei Fei , Li Shaoyi , Yi Ming , Shu Yousheng , Shang Yongfeng , Liang Jing , Huang Zhuo
Published: August 2017

Impairment of intrinsic plasticity is involved in a range of neurological disorders such as epilepsy. However, how intrinsic excitability is regulated is still not fully understood. Here we report that the epigenetic factor Chromodomain Y-like (CDYL) protein is a critical regulator of the initiation and maintenance of intrinsic neuroplasticity by regulating voltage-gated ion channels in mouse brains. CDYL binds to a regulatory element in the intron region of SCN8A and mainly recruits H3K27me3 activity for transcriptional repression of the gene. Knockdown of CDYL in hippocampal neurons results in augmented Nav1.6 currents, lower neuronal threshold, and increased seizure susceptibility, whereas transgenic mice over-expressing CDYL exhibit higher neuronal threshold and are less prone to epileptogenesis. Finally, examination of human brain tissues reveals decreased CDYL and increased SCN8A in the temporal lobe epilepsy group. Together, our findings indicate CDYL is a critical player for experience-dependent gene regulation in controlling intrinsic excitability.
Modifying electron transfer between photoredox and organocatalytic units via framework interpenetration for β-carbonyl functionalization
Authors: Xia Zhengqiang , He Cheng , Wang Xiaoge , Duan Chunying
Published: August 2017

Modifying electron transfer pathways is essential to controlling the regioselectivity of heterogeneous photochemical transformations relevant to saturated carbonyls, due to fixed catalytic sites. Here we show that the interpenetration of metal–organic frameworks that contain both photoredox and asymmetric catalytic units can adjust the separations and electron transfer process between them. The enforced close proximity between two active sites via framework interpenetration accelerates the electron transfer between the oxidized photosensitizer and enamine intermediate, enabling the generation of 5πe− β-enaminyl radicals before the intermediates couple with other active species, achieving β-functionalized carbonyl products. The enriched benzoate and iminium groups in the catalysts provide a suitable Lewis-acid/base environment to stabilize the active radicals, allowing the protocol described to advance the β-functionalization of saturated cyclic ketones with aryl ketones to deliver γ-hydroxyketone motifs. The homochiral environment of the pores within the recyclable frameworks provides additional spatial constraints to enhance the regioselectivity and enantioselectivity.
Release of free-volume bubbles by cooperative-rearrangement regions during the deposition growth of a colloidal glass
Authors: Cao Xin , Zhang Huijun , Han Yilong
Published: August 2017

Vapor deposition can directly produce ultrastable glasses which are similar to conventional glasses aged over thousands of years. The highly mobile surface layer is believed to accelerate the ageing process of vapor-deposited glasses, but its microscopic kinetics have not been experimentally observed. Here we study the deposition growth kinetics of a two-dimensional colloidal glass at the single-particle level using video microscopy. We observe that newly deposited particles in the surface layer (depth, d < 14 particles) relax via out-of-cage diffusions of individual particles, while particles in the deeper middle layer (14 < d ≲ 100 particles) relax via activation of cooperative-rearrangement regions. These cooperative-rearrangement regions are much larger, more anisotropic and occur more frequently than cooperative-rearrangement regions in the bulk (d ≳ 100 particles) or after deposition. Cooperative-rearrangement regions move towards the surface and released free-volume bubbles at the surface, while the particles within cooperative-rearrangement regions move towards the bulk, resulting in a more compact bulk glass.
Hierarchically self-assembled hexagonal honeycomb and kagome superlattices of binary 1D colloids
Authors: Lim Sung-Hwan , Lee Taehoon , Oh Younghoon , Narayanan Theyencheri , Sung Bong June , Choi Sung-Min
Published: August 2017

Synthesis of binary nanoparticle superlattices has attracted attention for a broad spectrum of potential applications. However, this has remained challenging for one-dimensional nanoparticle systems. In this study, we investigate the packing behavior of one-dimensional nanoparticles of different diameters into a hexagonally packed cylindrical micellar system and demonstrate that binary one-dimensional nanoparticle superlattices of two different symmetries can be obtained by tuning particle diameter and mixing ratios. The hexagonal arrays of one-dimensional nanoparticles are embedded in the honeycomb lattices (for AB2 type) or kagome lattices (for AB3 type) of micellar cylinders. The maximization of free volume entropy is considered as the main driving force for the formation of superlattices, which is well supported by our theoretical free energy calculations. Our approach provides a route for fabricating binary one-dimensional nanoparticle superlattices and may be applicable for inorganic one-dimensional nanoparticle systems.
Computer modeling defines the system driving a constant current crucial for homeostasis in the mammalian cochlea by integrating unique ion transports
Authors: Nin Fumiaki , Yoshida Takamasa , Murakami Shingo , Ogata Genki , Uetsuka Satoru , Choi Samuel , Doi Katsumi , Sawamura Seishiro , Inohara Hidenori , Komune Shizuo , Kurachi Yoshihisa , Hibino Hiroshi
Published: August 2017

The cochlear lateral wall—an epithelial-like tissue comprising inner and outer layers—maintains +80 mV in endolymph. This endocochlear potential supports hearing and represents the sum of all membrane potentials across apical and basolateral surfaces of both layers. The apical surfaces are governed by K+equilibrium potentials. Underlying extracellular and intracellular [K+] is likely controlled by the “circulation current,” which crosses the two layers and unidirectionally flows throughout the cochlea. This idea was conceptually reinforced by our computational model integrating ion channels and transporters; however, contribution of the outer layer’s basolateral surface remains unclear. Recent experiments showed that this basolateral surface transports K+using Na+, K+-ATPases and an unusual characteristic of greater permeability to Na+than to other ions. To determine whether and how these machineries are involved in the circulation current, we used an in silico approach. In our updated model, the outer layer’s basolateral surface was provided with only Na+, K+-ATPases, Na+conductance, and leak conductance. Under normal conditions, the circulation current was assumed to consist of K+and be driven predominantly by Na+, K+-ATPases. The model replicated the experimentally measured electrochemical properties in all compartments of the lateral wall, and endocochlear potential, under normal conditions and during blocking of Na+, K+-ATPases. Therefore, the circulation current across the outer layer’s basolateral surface depends primarily on the three ion transport mechanisms. During the blockage, the reduced circulation current partially consisted of transiently evoked Na+flow via the two conductances. This work defines the comprehensive system driving the circulation current.
Reactivation of HIV-1 from Latency by an Ingenol Derivative from Euphorbia Kansui
Authors: Wang Pengfei , Lu Panpan , Qu Xiying , Shen Yinzhong , Zeng Hanxian , Zhu Xiaoli , Zhu Yuqi , Li Xian , Wu Hao , Xu Jianqing , Lu Hongzhou , Ma Zhongjun , Zhu Huanzhang
Published: August 2017

Cells harboring latent HIV-1 pose a major obstacle to eradication of the virus. The ‘shock and kill’ strategy has been broadly explored to purge the latent reservoir; however, none of the current latency-reversing agents (LRAs) can safely and effectively activate the latent virus in patients. In this study, we report an ingenol derivative called EK-16A, isolated from the traditional Chinese medicinal herb Euphorbia kansui, which displays great potential in reactivating latent HIV-1. A comparison of the doses used to measure the potency indicated EK-16A to be 200-fold more potent than prostratin in reactivating HIV-1 from latently infected cell lines. EK-16A also outperformed prostratin in ex vivo studies on cells from HIV-1-infected individuals, while maintaining minimal cytotoxicity effects on cell viability and T cell activation. Furthermore, EK-16A exhibited synergy with other LRAs in reactivating latent HIV-1. Mechanistic studies indicated EK-16A to be a PKCγ activator, which promoted both HIV-1 transcription initiation by NF-κB and elongation by P-TEFb signal pathways. Further investigations aimed to add this compound to the therapeutic arsenal for HIV-1 eradication are in the pipeline.
Improved Self-cleaning Properties of an Efficient and Easy to Scale up TiO2 Thin Films Prepared by Adsorptive Self-Assembly
Authors: Isaifan Rima J. , Samara Ayman , Suwaileh Wafa , Johnson Daniel , Yiming Wubulikasimu , Abdallah Amir A. , Aïssa Brahim
Published: August 2017

Transparent titania coatings have self-cleaning and anti-reflection properties (AR) that are of great importance to minimize soiling effect on photovoltaic modules. In this work, TiO2 nanocolloids prepared by polyol reduction method were successfully used as coating thin films onto borosilicate glass substrates via adsorptive self-assembly process. The nanocolloids were characterized by transmission electron microscopy and x-ray diffraction. The average particle size was around 2.6 nm. The films which have an average thickness of 76.2 nm and refractive index of 1.51 showed distinctive anti soiling properties under desert environment. The film surface topography, uniformity, wettability, thickness and refractive index were characterized using x-ray diffraction, atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, water contact angle measurements and ellipsometry. The self-cleaning properties were investigated by optical microscopy and UV-Vis spectroscopy. The optical images show 56% reduction of dust deposition rate over the coated surfaces compared with bare glass substrates after 7 days of soiling. The transmission optical spectra of these films collected at normal incidence angle show high anti-reflection properties with the coated substrates having transmission loss of less than 6% compared to bare clean glass.
The Role of Periostin in the Occurrence and Progression of Eosinophilic Chronic Sinusitis with Nasal Polyps
Authors: Xu Ming , Chen Daishi , Zhou Haojie , Zhang Weiwei , Xu Jun , Chen Lei
Published: August 2017

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is a highly heterogeneous disease with different host defence responses. However, whether periostin and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) are similarly impaired in patients with eosinophilic CRSwNP (ENP) and those with non-eosinophilic CRSwNP (nENP) remains unclear. We sought to evaluate the expression and possible modulation of periostin and VEGF, regulated on activation normal T expressed and secreted (RANTES) and eotaxin-2 in the polyp tissues from 30 patients with ENP and from 36 patients with nENP and in middle turbinate tissues from 12 control subjects. We found that ENP tissues exhibited a significantly increased expression of periostin and VEGF compared with tissues from patients with nENP and control subjects (P < 0.05, respectively). Accordingly, the expression of VEGF, RANTES, and eotaxin-2 in ENP fibroblasts was significantly up-regulated after stimulation with up-regulated periostin in vitro, but the expression of VEGF and RANTES was significantly inhibited by stimulation with down-regulated periostin. Our findings suggest that periostin might play an important role in the occurrence and progression of ENP and might be a potential therapeutic target.
Multiple electron transporting layers and their excellent properties based on organic solar cell
Authors: Yang Ziyan , Zhang Ting , Li Jingyu , Xue Wei , Han Changfeng , Cheng Yuanyuan , Qian Lei , Cao Weiran , Yang Yixing , Chen Song
Published: August 2017

To improve the performance of inverted polymer solar cells based on a ternary blend of polymerthieno [3,4-b] thiophene/benzodithiophene (PTB7), [6,6]-phenyl C71-butyric acid methyl ester (PC71BM) and indene-C60-bisadduct (ICBA), a two-layer structure of zinc oxide (ZnO) and Al-doped zinc oxide (AZO) nanoperticles is used to improve electron extraction. Comparing to ZnO, AZO has lower work function and thus provides larger built-in potential across the organic heterojunction, resulting in more efficient photo-current extraction and larger open circuit voltages. Optimum devices with ZnO/AZO nanoparticles show enhancement of both short circuit current and open circuit voltage, leading to a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 8.85%. The argument of energy level buffering and surface morphology is discussed in the paper. Finally, using a trilayer electron transporting unit of ZnO/AZO/PFN, the interface dipole between the organic active layer and AZO is introduced. The PCE is further enhanced to 9.17%.
Insular atrophy at the prodromal stage of dementia with Lewy bodies: a VBM DARTEL study
Authors: Roquet Daniel , Noblet Vincent , Anthony Pierre , Philippi Nathalie , Demuynck Catherine , Cretin Benjamin , Martin-Hunyadi Catherine , Loureiro de Sousa Paulo , Blanc Frédéric
Published: August 2017

Diffuse atrophy including the insula was previously demonstrated in dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) patients but little is known about the prodromal stage of DLB (pro-DLB). In this prospective study, we used SPM8-DARTEL to measure gray matter (GM) and white matter (WM) atrophy in pro-DLB patients (n = 54), prodromal Alzheimer’s disease (pro-AD) patients (n = 16), DLB patients at the stage of dementia (mild-DLB) (n = 15), and Alzheimer’s disease patients at the stage of dementia (mild-AD) (n = 28), and compared them with healthy elderly controls (HC, n = 22). Diminished GM volumes were found in bilateral insula in pro-DLB patients, a trend to significance in right hippocampus and parahippocampal gyrus in pro-AD patients, in left insula in mild-DLB patients, and in medial temporal lobes and insula in mild-AD patients. The comparison between prodromal groups did not showed any differences. The comparison between groups with dementia revealed atrophy around the left middle temporal gyrus in mild-AD patients. Reduced WM volume was observed in mild-DLB in the pons. The insula seems to be a key region in DLB as early as the prodromal stage. MRI studies looking at perfusion, and functional and anatomical connectivity are now needed to better understand the role of this region in DLB.
Large marine protected areas represent biodiversity now and under climate change
Authors: Davies T. E. , Maxwell S. M. , Kaschner K. , Garilao C. , Ban N. C.
Published: August 2017

Large marine protected areas (>30,000 km2) have a high profile in marine conservation, yet their contribution to conservation is contested. Assessing the overlap of large marine protected areas with 14,172 species, we found large marine protected areas cover 4.4% of the ocean and at least some portion of the range of 83.3% of the species assessed. Of all species within large marine protected areas, 26.9% had at least 10% of their range represented, and this was projected to increase to 40.1% in 2100. Cumulative impacts were significantly higher within large marine protected areas than outside, refuting the critique that they only occur in pristine areas. We recommend future large marine protected areas be sited based on systematic conservation planning practices where possible and include areas beyond national jurisdiction, and provide five key recommendations to improve the long-term representation of all species to meet critical global policy goals (e.g., Convention on Biological Diversity’s Aichi Targets).
Functionalized Non-vascular Nitinol Stent via Electropolymerized Polydopamine Thin Film Coating Loaded with Bortezomib Adjunct to Hyperthermia Therapy
Authors: Aguilar Ludwig Erik , Tumurbaatar Batgerel , Ghavaminejad Amin , Park Chan Hee , Kim Cheol Sang
Published: August 2017

Gastrointestinal malignancies have been a tremendous problem in the medical field and cover a wide variety of parts of the system, (i.e. esophagus, duodenum, intestines, and rectum). Usually, these malignancies are treated with palliation with the use of non-vascular nitinol stents. However, stenting is not a perfect solution for these problems. While it can enhance the quality of life of the patient, in time the device will encounter problems such as re-occlusion due to the rapid growth of the tumor. In this study, we propose a functionalization technique using electropolymerization of polydopamine directly onto the nitinol stent struts for the combined application of hyperthermia and chemotherapy. The coating was characterized using FESEM, XPS, and FT-IR. Drug release studies show that facile release of the anticancer drug BTZ from the surface of the polydopamine-coated stent could be achieved by the dissociation between catechol groups of polydopamine and the boronic acid functionality of BTZ in a pH-dependent manner. The anti-cancer property was also evaluated, and cytotoxicity on ESO26 and SNU-5 cancer cell lines were observed. Our results suggest that the introduced approach can be considered as a potential method for therapeutic stent application.
Giant magnetoresistance in lateral metallic nanostructures for spintronic applications
Authors: Zahnd G. , Vila L. , Pham V. T. , Marty A. , Beigné C. , Vergnaud C. , Attané J. P.
Published: August 2017

In this letter, we discuss the shift observed in spintronics from the current-perpendicular-to-plane geometry towards lateral geometries, illustrating the new opportunities offered by this configuration. Using CoFe-based all-metallic LSVs, we show that giant magnetoresistance variations of more than 10% can be obtained, competitive with the current-perpendicular-to-plane giant magnetoresistance. We then focus on the interest of being able to tailor freely the geometries. On the one hand, by tailoring the non-magnetic parts, we show that it is possible to enhance the spin signal of giant magnetoresistance structures. On the other hand, we show that tailoring the geometry of lateral structures allows creating a multilevel memory with high spin signals, by controlling the coercivity and shape anisotropy of the magnetic parts. Furthermore, we study a new device in which the magnetization direction of a nanodisk can be detected. We thus show that the ability to control the magnetic properties can be used to take advantage of all the spin degrees of freedom, which are usually occulted in current-perpendicular-to-plane devices. This flexibility of lateral structures relatively to current-perpendicular-to-plane structures is thus found to offer a new playground for the development of spintronic applications.
Treatment patterns, efficacy and toxicity of regorafenib in gastrointestinal stromal tumour patients
Authors: Schvartsman Gustavo , Wagner Michael J. , Amini Behrang , Zobniw Chrystia M. , Trinh Van Anh , Barbo Andrea G. , Lin Heather Y. , Wang Wei-Lien , Conley Anthony Paul , Ravi Vinod , Araujo Dejka M. , Zarzour Maria Alejandra , Benjamin Robert S. , Patel Shreyaskumar , Somaiah Neeta
Published: August 2017

Regorafenib was approved as third-line therapy for advanced Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumour (GIST) at a starting dose of 160 mg daily 3 weeks on, 1 week off, based on improvement in progression free survival over placebo (4.8 vs. 0.9 months), but the response rate was low at 4.5%. Given the high toxicity rate in GIST patients, there is variability in the post-marketing dosing of regorafenib. We aimed to summarize our experience regarding prescribing patterns, efficacy and toxicity of regorafenib and determine the role of response assessment by Choi criteria in GIST patients. We included 28 patients who received regorafenib from our pharmacy. Baseline patient characteristics and treatment outcomes were recorded and an independent radiologist assessed response using Choi and RECIST. Seventy-nine percent of patients started at a 120 mg continuous daily dosing schedule, different from the standard intermittent dosing schedule. Grade 3/4 adverse events were experienced by 43% of patients. Median progression-free survival was 8.7 months. Continuous dosing with regorafenib at 120 mg daily is the preferred prescribing pattern and appears to be better tolerated and with comparable efficacy to the current standard dose. Similar to imatinib, the partial response rate for regorafenib by Choi (29%) was higher compared to RECIST (4%).
Cyclooxygenase-2 contributes to oxidopamine-mediated neuronal inflammation and injury via the prostaglandin E2 receptor EP2 subtype
Authors: Kang Xu , Qiu Jiange , Li Qianqian , Bell Katherine A. , Du Yifeng , Jung Da Woon , Lee Jae Yeol , Hao Jiukuan , Jiang Jianxiong
Published: August 2017

Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) triggers pro-inflammatory processes that can aggravate neuronal degeneration and functional impairments in many neurological conditions, mainly via producing prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) that activates four membrane receptors, EP1-EP4. However, which EP receptor is the culprit of COX-2/PGE2-mediated neuronal inflammation and degeneration remains largely unclear and presumably depends on the insult types and responding components. Herein, we demonstrated that COX-2 was induced and showed nuclear translocation in two neuronal cell lines – mouse Neuro-2a and human SH-SY5Y – after treatment with neurotoxin 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA), leading to the biosynthesis of PGE2 and upregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-1β. Inhibiting COX-2 or microsomal prostaglandin E synthase-1 suppressed the 6-OHDA-triggered PGE2 production in these cells. Treatment with PGE2 or EP2 selective agonist butaprost, but not EP4 agonist CAY10598, increased cAMP response in both cell lines. PGE2-initiated cAMP production in these cells was blocked by our recently developed novel selective EP2 antagonists – TG4-155 and TG6-10-1, but not by EP4 selective antagonist GW627368X. The 6-OHDA-promoted cytotoxicity was largely blocked by TG4-155, TG6-10-1 or COX-2 selective inhibitor celecoxib, but not by GW627368X. Our results suggest that PGE2 receptor EP2 is a key mediator of COX-2 activity-initiated cAMP signaling in Neuro-2a and SH-SY5Y cells following 6-OHDA treatment, and contributes to oxidopamine-mediated neurotoxicity.
Spatially resolved investigation of all optical magnetization switching in TbFe alloys
Authors: Arora Ashima , Mawass Mohamad-Assaad , Sandig Oliver , Luo Chen , Ünal Ahmet A. , Radu Florin , Valencia Sergio , Kronast Florian
Published: August 2017

Optical control of magnetization using femtosecond laser without applying any external magnetic field offers the advantage of switching magnetic states at ultrashort time scales. Recently, all-optical helicity-dependent switching (AO-HDS) has drawn a significant attention for potential information and data storage device applications. In this work, we employ element and magnetization sensitive photoemission electron microscopy (PEEM) to investigate the role of heating in AO-HDS for thin films of the rare-earth transition-metal alloy TbFe. Spatially resolved measurements in a 3–5 μm sized stationary laser spot demonstrate that AO-HDS is a local phenomenon in the vicinity of thermal demagnetization in a ‘ring’ shaped region. The efficiency of AO-HDS further depends on a local temperature profile around the demagnetized region and thermally activated domain wall motion. We also demonstrate that the thickness of the film determines the preferential switching direction for a particular helicity.