bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Author Correction: The effects of Antibody Engineering CH and CL in Trastuzumab and Pertuzumab recombinant models: Impact on antibody production and antigen-binding
Authors: Lua Wai-Heng , Ling Wei-Li , Yeo Joshua Yi , Poh Jun-Jie , Lane David Philip , Gan Samuel Ken-En
Published: July 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has not been fixed in the paper.
In vitro biological screening of a critically endangered medicinal plant, Atropa acuminata Royle Ex Lindl of north western Himalaya
Authors: Rahman Khaista , Khan Shahid Ullah , Fahad Shah , Shinwari Zabta Khan , Khan Dilfaraz , Kamal Sajid , Ullah Ikram , Anjum Syed Ishtiaq , Man Shad , Khan Abdul Jamil , Khan Wasim Ullah , Khan Muhammad Hafeez Ullah , Jan Mehmood , Adnan Muhammad , Noor Muhammad
Published: July 2018

Atropa acuminata Royle Ex Lindl (Atropa acuminata) under tremendous threat of extinction in its natural habitat. However, the antimicrobial, antileishmanial and anticancer effects of the plant’s extracts have not been reported yet. In the current study, an attempt has been made to evaluate the pharmacological potential of this plant’s extracts against microbes, Leishmania and cancer. The roots, stems and leaves of Atropa acuminata were ground; then, seven different solvents were used alone and in different ratios to prepare crude extracts, which were screened for pharmacological effects. The aqueous, methanolic and ethanolic extracts of all parts carried a broad spectrum of anti-bacterial activities, while no significant activity was observed with combined solvents. Three types of cytotoxicity assays were performed, i.e., haemolytic, brine shrimp and protein kinase assays. The aqueous extract of all the parts showed significant haemolytic activity while n-hexane extracts of roots showed significant activity against brine shrimp. The acetone extracts strongly inhibited protein kinase while the methanolic extracts exhibited significant cytotoxic activity of roots and stem. The anti-leishmanial assays revealed that the methanolic extract of leaves and roots showed significant activity. These findings suggest that this plant could be a potential source of natural product based drugs.
Urine-derived cells: a promising diagnostic tool in Fabry disease patients
Authors: Slaats Gisela G. , Braun Fabian , Hoehne Martin , Frech Laura E. , Blomberg Linda , Benzing Thomas , Schermer Bernhard , Rinschen Markus M. , Kurschat Christine E.
Published: July 2018

Fabry disease is a lysosomal storage disorder resulting from impaired alpha-galactosidase A (α-Gal A) enzyme activity due to mutations in the GLA gene. Currently, powerful diagnostic tools and in vivo research models to study Fabry disease are missing, which is a major obstacle for further improvements in diagnosis and therapy. Here, we explore the utility of urine-derived primary cells of Fabry disease patients. Viable cells were isolated and cultured from fresh urine void. The obtained cell culture, modeling the renal epithelium, is characterized by patient-specific information. We demonstrate that this non-invasive source of patient cells provides an adequate cellular in vivo model as cells exhibit decreased α-Gal A enzyme activity and concomitant globotriaosylceramide accumulation. Subsequent quantitative proteomic analyses revealed dysregulation of endosomal and lysosomal proteins indicating an involvement of the Coordinated Lysosomal Expression and Regulation (CLEAR) network in the disease pathology. This proteomic pattern resembled data from our previously described human podocyte model of Fabry disease. Taken together, the employment of urine-derived primary cells of Fabry disease patients might have diagnostic and prognostic implications in the future. Our findings pave the way towards a more detailed understanding of pathophysiological mechanisms and may allow the development of future tailored therapeutic strategies.
Regulation of biomass degradation by alternative σ factors in cellulolytic clostridia
Authors: Ortiz de Ora Lizett , Lamed Raphael , Liu Ya-Jun , Xu Jian , Cui Qiu , Feng Yingang , Shoham Yuval , Bayer Edward A. , Muñoz-Gutiérrez Iván
Published: July 2018

Bacteria can adjust their genetic programs via alternative σ factors to face new environmental pressures. Here, we analyzed a unique set of paralogous alternative σ factors, termed σIs, which fine-tune the regulation of one of the most intricate cellulolytic systems in nature, the bacterial cellulosome, that is involved in degradation of environmental polysaccharides. We combined bioinformatics with experiments to decipher the regulatory networks of five σIs inClostridium thermocellum, the epitome of cellulolytic microorganisms, and one σIinPseudobacteroides cellulosolvenswhich produces the cellulosomal system with the greatest known complexity. Despite high homology between different σIs, our data suggest limited cross-talk among them. Remarkably, the major cross-talk occurs within the main cellulosomal genes which harbor the same σI-dependent promoter elements, suggesting a promoter-based mechanism to guarantee the expression of relevant genes. Our findings provide insights into the mechanisms used by σIs to differentiate among their corresponding regulons, representing a comprehensive overview of the regulation of the cellulosome to date. Finally, we show the advantage of using a heterologous host system for analysis of multiple σIs, since information generated by their analysis in their natural host can be misinterpreted owing to a cascade of interactions among the different σIs.
Tight-binding model for opto-electronic properties of penta-graphene nanostructures
Authors: Bravo Sergio , Correa Julián , Chico Leonor , Pacheco Mónica
Published: July 2018

We present a tight-binding parametrization for penta-graphene that correctly describes its electronic band structure and linear optical response. The set of parameters is validated by comparing to ab-initio density functional theory calculations for single-layer penta-graphene, showing a very good global agreement. We apply this parameterization to penta-graphene nanoribbons, achieving an adequate description of quantum-size effects. Additionally, a symmetry-based analysis of the energy band structure and the optical transitions involved in the absorption spectra is introduced, allowing for the interpretation of the optoelectronic features of these systems.
SCN4A as modifier gene in patients with myotonic dystrophy type 2
Authors: Binda Anna , Renna Laura V. , Bosè Francesca , Brigonzi Elisa , Botta Annalisa , Valaperta Rea , Fossati Barbara , Rivolta Ilaria , Meola Giovanni , Cardani Rosanna
Published: July 2018

A patient with an early severe myotonia diagnosed for Myotonic Dystrophy type 2 (DM2) was found bearing the combined effects of DM2 mutation and Nav1.4 S906T substitution. To investigate the mechanism underlying his atypical phenotype,whole-cell patch-clamp in voltage- and current-clamp mode was performed in myoblasts and myotubes obtained from his muscle biopsy. Results characterizing the properties of the sodium current and of the action potentials have been compared to those obtained in muscle cells derived from his mother, also affected by DM2, but without the S906T polymorphism. A faster inactivation kinetics and a +5 mV shift in the availability curve were found in the sodium current recorded in patient’s myoblasts compared to his mother. 27% of his myotubes displayed spontaneous activity. Patient’s myotubes showing a stable resting membrane potential had a lower rheobase current respect to the mother’s while the overshoot and the maximum slope of the depolarizing phase of action potential were higher. These findings suggest that SCN4A polymorphisms may be responsible for a higher excitability of DM2 patients sarcolemma, supporting the severe myotonic phenotype observed. We suggest SCN4A as a modifier factor and that its screening should be performed in DM2 patients with uncommon clinical features.
Enhanced photocatalytic dye degradation and hydrogen production ability of Bi25FeO40-rGO nanocomposite and mechanism insight
Authors: Basith M. A. , Ahsan Ragib , Zarin Ishrat , Jalil M. A.
Published: July 2018

A comprehensive comparison between BiFeO3-reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanocomposite and Bi25FeO40-rGO nanocomposite has been performed to investigate their photocatalytic abilities in degradation of Rhodamine B dye and generation of hydrogen by water-splitting. The hydrothermal technique adapted for synthesis of the nanocomposites provides a versatile temperature-controlled phase selection between perovskite BiFeO3 and sillenite Bi25FeO40. Both perovskite and sillenite structured nanocomposites are stable and exhibit considerably higher photocatalytic ability over pure BiFeO3 nanoparticles and commercially available Degussa P25 titania. Notably, Bi25FeO40-rGO nanocomposite has demonstrated superior photocatalytic ability and stability under visible light irradiation than that of BiFeO3-rGO nanocomposite. The possible mechanism behind the superior photocatalytic performance of Bi25FeO40-rGO nanocomposite has been critically discussed.
Habitat suitability for the invasion of Bombus terrestris in East Asian countries: A case study of spatial overlap with local Chinese bumblebees
Authors: Naeem Muhammad , Yuan Xiaolong , Huang Jiaxing , An Jiandong
Published: July 2018

Invasive species such as Bombus terrestris represent a severe threat that can result in the decline of local biodiversity. We examined the habitat suitability for B. terrestris invasion in East Asian countries and the risk of habitat overlap with 24 bumblebee species from different groups in China. All East Asian countries were predicted to be susceptible to invasion by B. terrestris, with the highest habitat suitability occurring in China followed by Japan, North Korea, South Korea and Mongolia. Within China, which is a global biodiversity hotspot for bumblebees, three different regions, north-west, central to south-east and north-east, were predicted as being highly suitable for invasion. In China, the group of species closely related to B. terrestris showed higher sensitivity (89%) to habitat overlap with B. terrestris than did the group of non-closely related species (73%). The risk of overlap for the three major regional bumblebees within China decreased in the order southern region, northern region and Tibetan Plateau region. Due to the sensitivity of habitat suitability and overlap, the use of the introduced European bumblebee B. terrestris for pollination services should be discouraged in regions with overlapping habitats in China, and management strategies should be implemented to conserve the vulnerable bumblebees in all East Asian countries.
Three-Dimensional Printed Model-Assisted Screw Installation in Treating Posterior Atlantoaxial Internal Fixation
Authors: Yang Minyi , Zhang Nannan , Shi Haodong , Li Hui , Liu Shichang , Song Zongrang , Shan Lequn , Wu Qining , Hao Dingjun
Published: July 2018

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and feasibility of a life-size 3-dimensional printing assisted posterior internal fixation. We performed a retrospective review of 138 patients who received posterior atlantoaxial internal fixation from October 2009 to March 2015 with a minimum follow-up period of 12 months. Group A included 76 patients who received the conventional free-hand technique. Group B included 62 patients who were treated with internal fixation assisted by 3D printing. The placement accuracy of the screw was evaluated in the computed tomography images according to the methods of Hojo and clinical outcomes were evaluated using the visual analogue scale, the Japanese Orthopedic Association Score, and the Neck Disability Index score. There were no significant differences in the clinical results at any of the follow-up time points regarding the JOA, VAS, or NDI scores between two group. However, compared to Group A, Group B had better results for screw installation (P = 0.003), shorter surgery time (P = 0.001), and less blood loss (P = 0.037). Compared to the conventional free-hand technique, 3D printed model–assisted is helpful to screw placement in atlantoaxial internal fixation, which can be used as a common tool to provides important guidance for upper cervical surgery.
Hydrolysis of Extracellular Pyrophosphate increases in post-hemodialysis plasma
Authors: Azpiazu Daniel , González-Parra Emilio , Egido Jesús , Villa-Bellosta Ricardo
Published: July 2018

Vascular calcification (VC) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality of dialysis patients. Previous studies showed an association between loss of plasma pyrophosphate and VC. Moreover, loss of pyrophosphate occurs during dialysis in this population, suggesting that therapeutic approaches that prevent reduction of plasma pyrophosphate levels during dialysis could improve the quality of life of dialysis patients. This study found that pyrophosphate hydrolysis was 51% higher in post- than pre-dialysis plasma. Dialysis sessions modified the kinetic behavior of alkaline phosphatase, increasing its Vmax and reducing its Km, probably due to the elimination of uremic toxins during dialysis. At least 75% of alkaline phosphatase activity in human plasma was found to depend on a levamisole-sensitive enzyme probably corresponding to tissue non-specific alkaline phosphatase (TNAP). Dialysis increased total plasma protein concentration by 14% and reduced TNAP enzyme by 20%, resulting in an underestimation of pyrophosphate hydrolysis in post-dialysis plasma. Levamisole inhibited TNAP activity (IC50, 7.2 µmol/L), reducing pyrophosphate hydrolysis in plasma and increasing plasma pyrophosphate availability. Alkaline phosphatase is also found in many tissues and cells types; therefore, our results in plasma may be indicative of changes in phosphatase activity in other locations that collectively could contribute significantly to pyrophosphate hydrolysis in vivo. In conclusion, these findings demonstrate that dialysis increases pyrophosphate hydrolysis, which, taken together with previously reported increases in alkalization and calcium ion levels in post-dialysis plasma, causes VC and could be prevented by adding calcification inhibitors during dialysis.
The effect of nanometre-scale V-pits on electronic and optical properties and efficiency droop of GaN-based green light-emitting diodes
Authors: Zhou Shengjun , Liu Xingtong , Yan Han , Gao Yilin , Xu Haohao , Zhao Jie , Quan Zhijue , Gui Chengqun , Liu Sheng
Published: July 2018

The development of efficient green light-emitting diodes (LEDs) is of paramount importance for the realization of colour-mixing white LEDs with a high luminous efficiency. While the insertion of an InGaN/GaN superlattice (SL) with a lower In content before the growth of InGaN/GaN multiple quantum wells (MQWs) is known to increase the efficiency of LEDs, the actual mechanism is still debated. We therefore conduct a systematic study and investigate the different mechanisms for this system. Through cathodoluminescence and Raman measurements, we clearly demonstrate that the potential barrier formed by the V-pit during the low-temperature growth of an InGaN/GaN SL dramatically increases the internal quantum efficiency (IQE) of InGaN quantum wells (QWs) by suppressing non-radiative recombination at threading dislocations (TDs). We find that the V-pit potential barrier height depends on the V-pit diameter, which plays an important role in determining the quantum efficiency, forward voltage and efficiency droop of green LEDs. Furthermore, our study reveals that the low-temperature GaN can act as an alternative to an InGaN/GaN SL structure for promoting the formation of V-pits. Our findings suggest the potential of implementing optimized V-pits embedded in an InGaN/GaN SL or low-temperature GaN structure as a beneficial underlying layer for the realization of highly efficient green LEDs.
Type I Interferon Potentiates IgA Immunity to Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection During Infancy
Authors: Hijano Diego R. , Siefker David T. , Shrestha Bishwas , Jaligama Sridhar , Vu Luan D. , Tillman Heather , Finkelstein David , Saravia Jordy , You Dahui , Cormier Stephania A.
Published: July 2018

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection is the most frequent cause of hospitalization in infants and young children worldwide. Although mucosal RSV vaccines can reduce RSV disease burden, little is known about mucosal immune response capabilities in children. Neonatal or adult mice were infected with RSV; a subset of neonatal mice received interferon alpha (IFN-α) (intranasal) prior to RSV infection. B cells, B cell activating factor (BAFF) and IgA were measured by flow cytometry. RSV specific IgA was measured in nasal washes. Nasal associated lymphoid tissue (NALT) and lungs were stained for BAFF and IgA. Herein, we show in a mouse model of RSV infection that IFN-α plays a dual role as an antiviral and immune modulator and age-related differences in IgA production upon RSV infection can be overcome by IFN-α administration. IFN-α administration before RSV infection in neonatal mice increased RSV-specific IgA production in the nasal mucosa and induced expression of the B-cell activating factor BAFF in NALT. These findings are important, as mucosal antibodies at the infection site, and not serum antibodies, have been shown to protect human adults from experimental RSV infection.
Mass spectrometry quantitation of proteins from small pools of developing auditory and vestibular cells
Authors: Krey Jocelyn F. , Scheffer Deborah I. , Choi Dongseok , Reddy Ashok , David Larry L. , Corey David P. , Barr-Gillespie Peter G.
Published: July 2018

Hair cells of the inner ear undergo postnatal development that leads to formation of their sensory organelles, synaptic machinery, and in the case of cochlear outer hair cells, their electromotile mechanism. To examine how the proteome changes over development from postnatal days 0 through 7, we isolated pools of 5000 Pou4f3-Gfp positive or negative cells from the cochlea or utricles; these cell pools were analysed by data-dependent and data-independent acquisition (DDA and DIA) mass spectrometry. DDA data were used to generate spectral libraries, which enabled identification and accurate quantitation of specific proteins using the DIA datasets. DIA measurements were extremely sensitive; we were able to detect proteins present at less than one part in 100,000 from only 312 hair cells. The DDA and DIA datasets will be valuable for accurately quantifying proteins in hair cells and non-hair cells over this developmental window.
Leukocyte Tracking Database, a collection of immune cell tracks from intravital 2-photon microscopy videos
Authors: Pizzagalli Diego Ulisse , Farsakoglu Yagmur , Palomino-Segura Miguel , Palladino Elisa , Sintes Jordi , Marangoni Francesco , Mempel Thorsten R. , Koh Wan Hon , Murooka Thomas T. , Thelen Flavian , Stein Jens V. , Pozzi Giuseppe , Thelen Marcus , Krause Rolf , Gonzalez Santiago Fernandez
Published: July 2018

Recent advances in intravital video microscopy have allowed the visualization of leukocyte behavior in vivo, revealing unprecedented spatiotemporal dynamics of immune cell interaction. However, state-of-the-art software and methods for automatically measuring cell migration exhibit limitations in tracking the position of leukocytes over time. Challenges arise both from the complex migration patterns of these cells and from the experimental artifacts introduced during image acquisition. Additionally, the development of novel tracking tools is hampered by the lack of a sound ground truth for algorithm validation and benchmarking. Therefore, the objective of this work was to create a database, namely LTDB, with a significant number of manually tracked leukocytes. Broad experimental conditions, sites of imaging, types of immune cells and challenging case studies were included to foster the development of robust computer vision techniques for imaging-based immunological research. Lastly, LTDB represents a step towards the unravelling of biological mechanisms by video data mining in systems biology.
Systematic, continental scale temporal monitoring of marine pelagic microbiota by the Australian Marine Microbial Biodiversity Initiative
Authors: Brown Mark V. , van de Kamp Jodie , Ostrowski Martin , Seymour Justin R. , Ingleton Tim , Messer Lauren F. , Jeffries Thomas , Siboni Nahshon , Laverock Bonnie , Bibiloni-Isaksson Jaume , Nelson Tiffanie M. , Coman Frank , Davies Claire H. , Frampton Dion , Rayner Mark , Goossen Kirianne , Robert Stan , Holmes Bronwyn , Abell Guy C.J. , Craw Pascal , Kahlke Tim , Sow Swan Li San , McAllister Kirsty , Windsor Jonathan , Skuza Michele , Crossing Ryan , Patten Nicole , Malthouse Paul , van Ruth Paul D. , Paulsen Ian , Fuhrman Jed A. , Richardson Anthony , Koval Jason , Bissett Andrew , Fitzgerald Anna , Moltmann Tim , Bodrossy Levente
Published: July 2018

Sustained observations of microbial dynamics are rare, especially in southern hemisphere waters. The Australian Marine Microbial Biodiversity Initiative (AMMBI) provides methodologically standardized, continental scale, temporal phylogenetic amplicon sequencing data describing Bacteria, Archaea and microbial Eukarya assemblages. Sequence data is linked to extensive physical, biological and chemical oceanographic contextual information. Samples are collected monthly to seasonally from multiple depths at seven sites: Darwin Harbour (Northern Territory), Yongala (Queensland), North Stradbroke Island (Queensland), Port Hacking (New South Wales), Maria Island (Tasmania), Kangaroo Island (South Australia), Rottnest Island (Western Australia). These sites span ~30° of latitude and ~38° longitude, range from tropical to cold temperate zones, and are influenced by both local and globally significant oceanographic and climatic features. All sequence datasets are provided in both raw and processed fashion. Currently 952 samples are publically available for bacteria and archaea which include 88,951,761 bacterial (72,435 unique) and 70,463,079 archaeal (24,205 unique) 16 S rRNA v1-3 gene sequences, and 388 samples are available for eukaryotes which include 39,801,050 (78,463 unique) 18 S rRNA v4 gene sequences.
Enantioselective aliphatic C–H bond oxidation catalyzed by bioinspired complexes
Authors: Milan Michela , Bietti Massimo , Costas Miquel
Published: July 2018

Enantioselective aliphatic C–H bond oxidation simultaneously installs functionality and chirality into hydrocarbon units, converting in a single step readily available, inexpensive and typically inert hydrocarbons into precious building blocks for organic synthesis.
Diastereoselective self-assembly of bisheptahelicene on Cu(111)
Authors: Mairena Anaïs , Parschau Manfred , Seibel Johannes , Wienke Martin , Rentsch Daniel , Terfort Andreas , Ernst Karl-Heinz
Published: July 2018

Diastereospecific two-dimensional crystallization is reported for bishelicenes on a Cu(111) surface.
Bimetallic sulfide nanoparticles confined by dual-carbon nanostructures as anodes for lithium-/sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Lv Jinmeng , Bai Daxun , Yang Lan , Guo Ying , Yan Hong , Xu Sailong
Published: July 2018

Bimetallic sulfide ((Ni0.3Co0.7)9S8) nanoparticles confined by dual-carbon nanostructures are prepared, and deliver high electrochemical performances as anodes for Li+/Na+ batteries.
Defective Pt nanoparticles encapsulated in mesoporous metal–organic frameworks for enhanced catalysis
Authors: Wang Qiang , Wang Xu-Sheng , Chen Chun-Hui , Yang Xue , Huang Yuan-Biao , Cao Rong
Published: July 2018

Highly ultrafine defective Pt nanoparticles (NPs) encapsulated in the mesopores of MIL-101 (Pt(Co)@MIL-101) were achieved for the first time through a chemical dealloying approach. The obtained material could provide more active sites to contact reactants and showed superior catalytic activity towards the hydrogenation of nitroarenes under mild conditions.
Single-molecule magnet behaviour in a dysprosium-triradical complex
Authors: Xiao Zhao-Xin , Miao Hao , Shao Dong , Wei Hai-Yan , Zhang Yi-Quan , Wang Xin-Yi
Published: July 2018

The first triradical bridged binuclear penta-spin single-molecule magnet based on a nitronyl nitroxide triradical was synthesized and characterized.
One-pot selectiveN-formylation of nitroarenes to formamides catalyzed by core–shell structured cobalt nanoparticles
Authors: Dong Xiaosu , Wang Zhaozhan , Duan Yanan , Yang Yong
Published: July 2018

A first heterogeneous non-noble cobalt catalyst for one-pot directN-formylation of nitroarenes exhibiting high activity with a broad substrate scope under mild conditions is synthesised. It is easily separated with good recyclability.
Lack of dependence of mechanical properties of baicalein cocrystals on those of the constituent components
Authors: Liu Lili , Wang Chenguang , Dun Jiangnan , Chow Albert H. L. , Sun Changquan Calvin
Published: July 2018

Three baicalein (BAI) cocrystals with nicotinamide (NCT), caffeine (CAF), and isoniazid (ISN) exhibited excellent tabletability despite the markedly different tabletability of the coformers.
Effect of unsaturated substituents in the reaction of Criegee intermediates with water vapor
Authors: Yin Cangtao , Takahashi Kaito
Published: July 2018

Unsaturated carbon chain substitutions in Criegee intermediates result in much slower rates for their reaction with water vapor.
Dipolar magnetism in assembled Co nanoparticles on graphene
Authors: Chan Yao-Jui , Huang Chih-Heng , Chang Yin-Ming , Lu Yi-Ying , Wu Shih-Yu , Wei Der-Hsin , Kuo Chien-Cheng
Published: July 2018

The magnetic properties of the assembled Co nanoparticles on graphene were studied using X-ray magnetic circular dichroism (XMCD), magneto-optical Kerr effects, and a modeling simulation.
Post-synthetically modified MOF for the A3-coupling reaction of aldehyde, amine, and alkyne
Authors: Kassymova Meruyert , de Mahieu Alaric , Chaemchuen Somboon , Demeyere Patrick , Mousavi Bibimaryam , Zhuiykov Serge , Yusubov Mekhman S. , Verpoort Francis
Published: July 2018

A new heterogeneous NHC catalyst (Ag-NHC-MOF) was synthesized by the post-synthetic modification of an azolium-containing metal–organic framework.
Microstructure and thermoelectric transport properties of BiCuSeO thin films on amorphous glass substrates
Authors: Yuan Dachao , Guo Shuang , Hou Shuaihang , Ma Yuejin , Hao Jianjun , Wang Jianglong , Wang Shufang
Published: July 2018

Effect of structural defects on the low temperature thermoelectric transport properties of c-axis-textured BiCuSeO thin films on amorphous glass substrates.
Environmental life cycle comparison of conventional and biological filtration alternatives for drinking water treatment
Authors: Jones Christopher H. , Terry Leigh G. , Summers R. Scott , Cook Sherri M.
Published: July 2018

This work identified and quantified the environmental impacts of conventional filtration, nonozonated biofiltration, and ozonated biofiltration alternatives for a diverse set of source waters and treatment requirements.
Long-term repeatability improvement of quantitative LIBS using a two-point standardization method
Authors: Hao Zhongqi , Liu Li , Shen Meng , Zhou Ran , Li Jiaming , Guo Lianbo , Li Xiangyou , Lu Yongfeng , Zeng Xiaoyan
Published: July 2018

A two-point standardization method was used to improve the long-term repeatability of quantitative LIBS.
Transfection by cationic gemini lipids and surfactants
Authors: Damen M. , Groenen A. J. J. , van Dongen S. F. M. , Nolte R. J. M. , Scholte B. J. , Feiters M. C.
Published: July 2018

Multivalent cationic lipids such as gemini surfactants are an alternative to viruses for intracellular delivery of nucleic acids.
A fluorometric and colorimetric dual-mode sensor based on nitrogen and iron co-doped graphene quantum dots for detection of ferric ions in biological fluids and cellular imaging
Authors: Gao Xue Xia , Zhou Xi , Ma Yu Feng , Wang Chun Peng , Chu Fu Xiang
Published: July 2018

A dual-mode sensing strategy based on N, Fe-GQDs for effective and selective detecting of Fe3+ and cellular imaging was developed.
Construction of two Zn(ii)/Cd(ii) multifunctional coordination polymers with mixed ligands for catalytic and sensing properties
Authors: Xue Li-Ping , Li Zhao-Hao , Zhang Ting , Cui Jia-Jia , Gao Yue , Yao Jia-Xin
Published: July 2018

Two Zn(ii)/Cd(ii) coordination polymers with different networks were constructed with mixed ligands. The former compound shows high catalytic activity for Knoevenagel condensation, and the latter compound can selectively recognize l-cysteine through the luminescence quenching effect.
Hollow NiFe2O4 hexagonal biyramids for high-performance n-propanol sensing at low temperature
Authors: Song Xue-Zhi , Meng Yu-Lan , Chen Xi , Sun Kai-Ming , Wang Xiao-Feng
Published: July 2018

A gas sensor based on hollow NiFe2O4 hexagonal biyramids exhibits high performances, including high response value, good selectivity and cyclic stability towards n-propanol while operating at low temperature.
A highly stable and tightly packed 3D energetic coordination polymer assembled from nitrogen-rich tetrazole derivatives
Authors: Zhang Mi , Xu Jian-Gang , Zhang Ning-Ning , Lu Jian , Xin Xue-Huan , Zheng Fa-Kun , Guo Guo-Cong
Published: July 2018

A tightly packed 3D energetic cadmium(ii) coordination polymer was synthesized with high stability and remarkable energetic performance.
Facile preparation of nanoflake MnNi2O4–PbS nanoparticle composites on Ni foam as advanced electrode materials for supercapacitors
Authors: Park Tae-Yong , V. V. Muralee Gopi Chandu , Ahn Jin-Woo , Kim Hee-Je
Published: July 2018

Nanoparticle decorated nanoflake-like structures of MnNi2O4–PbS composites exhibit superior supercapacitor performance to the MnNi2O4 electrode.
A theoretical study of the super exchange mechanism and magneto-structural relationships in the [Mn(iii)2(μ-F)F4(Me3tacn)2](PF6) coordination compound
Authors: Montenegro-Pohlhammer Nicolás , Páez-Hernández Dayán , Calzado Carmen J. , Arratia-Pérez Ramiro
Published: July 2018

A detailed theoretical study of the electronic structure and magnetic properties of the dinuclear Mn(iii) complex, [Mn(iii)2(μ-F)F4(Me3tacn)2] (complex 1), with a single fluoride bridge is reported.
Synthesis of imidazo[1,5-a]pyridines via I2-mediated sp3 C–H amination
Authors: Hu Zhiyuan , Hou Jiao , Liu Jie , Yu Wenquan , Chang Junbiao
Published: July 2018

A transition-metal-free sp3 C–H amination reaction has been developed employing molecular iodine for imidazo[1,5-a]pyridine synthesis.
One-step green approach for functional printing and finishing of textiles using silver and gold NPs
Authors: Elmaaty T. Abou , El-Nagare Kh. , Raouf S. , Abdelfattah Kh. , El-Kadi S. , Abdelaziz E.
Published: July 2018

In this study, we present a successful simple method for printing and finishing of polyester and cotton fabrics using gold and silver nanoparticles (Au-NPs and Ag-NPs, respectively) as stable, fast colorants and functional components.
A vertical WSe2–MoSe2 p–n heterostructure with tunable gate rectification
Authors: Liu Hailing , Hussain Sajjad , Ali Asif , Naqvi Bilal Abbas , Vikraman Dhanasekaran , Jeong Woonyoung , Song Wooseok , An Ki-Seok , Jung Jongwan
Published: July 2018

Here, we report a vertical MoSe2/WSe2 p–n heterostructure with rectifying I–V behavior and back-gate tunability.
Reconstitution properties of biologically active polymersomes after cryogenic freezing and a freeze-drying process
Authors: Ccorahua Robert , Moreno Silvia , Gumz Hannes , Sahre Karin , Voit Brigitte , Appelhans Dietmar
Published: July 2018

Polymersomes can retain their physico-chemical properties and membrane permeability for enzymatic reactions after lyophilization or cryogenic freezing and storage.
Chemically-defined lactose-based autoinduction medium for site-specific incorporation of non-canonical amino acids into proteins
Authors: Muzika Michael , Muskat Natali H. , Sarid Shani , Ben-David Oshrit , Mehl Ryan A. , Arbely Eyal
Published: July 2018

Optimized chemically-defined lactose-based autoinduction media for superior expression levels of proteins with non-canonical amino acids.
A hybrid description and evaluation of oxymethylene dimethyl ethers synthesis based on the endothermic dehydrogenation of methanol
Authors: Ouda Mohamed , Mantei Franz , Hesterwerth Kai , Bargiacchi Eleonora , Klein Harald , White Robin J.
Published: July 2018

Concerning oxymethylene dimethyl ethers (OME), this work utilises a hybrid process model based on methanol (MeOH) and its partially selective conversion to anhydrous formaldehyde (FA), which in turn is used as the feed for OME synthesis.
Sulfur: an intermediate template for advanced silicon anode architectures
Authors: Baasner Anne , Dörfler Susanne , Piwko Markus , Desilani Sébastien , Brückner Jan , Althues Holger , Kaskel Stefan
Published: July 2018

Due to a void structure the stability of the Si–C anode increased and it was coupled with a sulfur cathode.
Metallic and superhydrophilic nickel cobalt diselenide nanosheets electrodeposited on carbon cloth as a bifunctional electrocatalyst
Authors: Yu Jing , Tian Yumeng , Zhou Fei , Zhang Meiling , Chen Rongrong , Liu Qi , Liu Jingyuan , Xu Cheng-Yan , Wang Jun
Published: July 2018

Metallic and superhydrophilic nickel cobalt diselenide nanosheets exhibit superior electrocatalytic performance and robust durability toward overall water splitting.
Molecular self-assembly of a nanorod N-Li4Ti5O12/TiO2/C anode for superior lithium ion storage
Authors: Luo Sainan , Zhang Pengcheng , Yuan Tao , Ruan Jiafeng , Peng Chengxin , Pang Yuepeng , Sun Hao , Yang Junhe , Zheng Shiyou
Published: July 2018

A nanorod-like NT-LTO/C composite was synthesized by a novel one-pot in situ molecular self-assembly technique, which shows ultrahigh rate performance (105.5 mAh g−1 at 100C) and very stable cyclability.
Coupling confinement activating cobalt oxide ultra-small clusters for high-turnover oxygen evolution electrocatalysis
Authors: Cao Linlin , Cao Yuanjie , Liu Xiaokang , Luo Qiquan , Liu Wei , Zhang Wei , Mou Xiaoli , Yao Tao , Wei Shiqiang
Published: July 2018

Developing active electrocatalysts based on cost-efficient transition metal oxides for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is critical to renewable energy technology such as water electrolyzers.
A fluorescent flavonoid for lysosome detection in live cells under “wash free” conditions
Authors: Bertman Keti Assor , Abeywickrama Chathura S. , Baumann Hannah J. , Alexander Nicolas , McDonald Lucas , Shriver Leah P. , Konopka Michael , Pang Yi
Published: July 2018

Highly bio-compatible probes (LC50 > 75 μM) with large Stokes shifts (Δλ> 150 nm) for quick staining of lysosomes (≈20 min) in live cells.
A luminescent turn-up metal–organic framework sensor for tryptophan based on singlet–singlet Förster energy transfer
Authors: Zhang Jun , Huang Yike , Yue Dan , Cui Yuanjing , Yang Yu , Qian Guodong
Published: July 2018

A highly stable MOF, ZJU-108, was synthesized with Zn2+ and 6-(4-pyridyl)-terephthalic acid (H2pta) as construction units, and it exhibits an impressive turn-on luminescence enhancement response to tryptophan.
Plant mitochondrial protein import: the ins and outs
Authors: Ghifari Abi S. , Gill-Hille Mabel , Murcha Monika W.
Published: July 2018

The majority of the mitochondrial proteome, required to fulfil its diverse range of functions, is cytosolically synthesised and translocated via specialised machinery. The dedicated translocases, receptors, and associated proteins have been characterised in great detail in yeast over the last several decades, yet many of the mechanisms that regulate these processes in higher eukaryotes are still unknown. In this review, we highlight the current knowledge of mitochondrial protein import in plants. Despite the fact that the mechanisms of mitochondrial protein import have remained conserved across species, many unique features have arisen in plants to encompass the developmental, tissue-specific, and stress-responsive regulation in planta. An understanding of unique features and mechanisms in plants provides us with a unique insight into the regulation of mitochondrial biogenesis in higher eukaryotes.
A Gaia DR2 view of the open cluster population in the Milky Way
Authors: Cantat-Gaudin T. , Jordi C. , Vallenari A. , Bragaglia A. , Balaguer-Núñez L. , Soubiran C. , Bossini D. , Moitinho A. , Castro-Ginard A. , Krone-Martins A. , Casamiquela L. , Sordo R. , Carrera R.
Published: July 2018

Context. Open clusters are convenient probes of the structure and history of the Galactic disk. They are also fundamental to stellar evolution studies. The second Gaia data release contains precise astrometry at the submilliarcsecond level and homogeneous photometry at the mmag level, that can be used to characterise a large number of clusters over the entire sky.

Aims. In this study we aim to establish a list of members and derive mean parameters, in particular distances, for as many clusters as possible, making use of Gaia data alone.

Methods. We compiled a list of thousands of known or putative clusters from the literature. We then applied an unsupervised membership assignment code, UPMASK, to the Gaia DR2 data contained within the fields of those clusters.

Results. We obtained a list of members and cluster parameters for 1229 clusters. As expected, the youngest clusters are seen to be tightly distributed near the Galactic plane and to trace the spiral arms of the Milky Way, while older objects are more uniformly distributed, deviate further from the plane, and tend to be located at larger Galactocentric distances. Thanks to the quality of Gaia DR2 astrometry, the fully homogeneous parameters derived in this study are the most precise to date. Furthermore, we report on the serendipitous discovery of 60 new open clusters in the fields analysed during this study.
A new fault diagnosis approach for analog circuits based on spectrum image and feature weighted kernel Fisher discriminant analysis
Authors: He Wei , He Yigang , Zhang Chaolong
Published: July 2018

Analog circuits are one of the most commonly used components in industrial equipment and, therefore, circuit failure may lead to significant causalities and even huge financial losses. To address this problem, this work presents a fault diagnosis method based on spectrum images for analog circuits. Unlike traditional analysis methods in a one-dimensional space, this study employs a computing method in the field of image processing to realize automatic feature extraction and fault diagnosis in a two-dimensional space. The proposed approach mainly involves the following steps. First, the sampling signals are converted into spectrum images by utilizing cross-wavelet transform, which can be further processed by the following image-based feature extraction method. Then, Krawtchouk moment is applied to extract both the global and local features of the spectrum images and finally form the feature vector. Feature weighted kernel Fisher discriminant analysis is then introduced for locating faults. Two typical analog circuits, video amplifier circuit and opamp high-pass filter circuit, are chosen to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. Simulation results show that the proposed approach based on spectrum images achieves a high accuracy, thus providing a highly effective means to fault diagnosis for analog circuits.
Loading-unloading contact model between three-dimensional fractal rough surfaces
Authors: Yuan Yuan , Chen Jianjiang , Zhang Lihua
Published: July 2018

Based on fractal theory, a loading-unloading contact model between three-dimensional rough surfaces has been developed. The critical contact areas of a single asperity are scale dependent. The expressions between contact area and contact load for a single asperity in loading and unloading processes are obtained. The truncated asperity size distribution functions of different frequency indexes in loading and unloading processes are deduced. The dimensionless relation between the total contact load and the total real contact area is obtained in loading and unloading processes. When 3D fractal rough surface is in elastic deformation, the dimensionless load-area relations of loading and unloading processes are identical. When 3D fractal rough surface is in inelastic deformation, the dimensionless total real area in unloading process is greater than the dimensionless total real area in loading process for a given contact load. For a given load, the differences in total real contact area between loading and unloading processes decrease with an increase in fractal dimension.
Non-singular three-dimensional arbitrarily shaped acoustic cloaks composed of homogeneous parts
Authors: Li Qi , Vipperman Jeffrey S.
Published: July 2018

Acoustic metamaterials are artificial materials with unique acoustic properties, permitting interesting behaviors, such as acoustic cloaking. Acoustic cloaks can make an object appear acoustically “invisible.” Prior cloaks that were designed based on transformation methods have been limited by inhomogeneous, anisotropic, and extreme material parameters. In this paper, a multistep transformation is proposed for a general tetrahedron. Each tetrahedron contains three homogeneous parts. Since most cloaks can be approximated as polyhedra, they can be divided into a series of tetrahedra. As a result, most of the 3D cloaks can be constructed of homogeneous parts by first approximating them as polyhedra. Two examples of the polyhedral cloaks are given, which are simulated using COMSOL Multiphysics finite element software. The results show that the cloaks work well at acoustically concealing 3D objects. Although the properties of each part are non-singular, a balance is still required between cloaking performance and moderation of the material property values.
Diffraction of polygonal slits using catastrophe optics
Authors: Narag J. , Hermosa N.
Published: July 2018

Young's boundary wave theory provides an alternative view of diffraction being an interference of a geometric wave and a boundary wave. Here, we show theoretically and experimentally that the transverse structure of a plane wave diffracted through slits originates solely from the boundary waves. For polygonal slits, we demonstrate that the concept of the ordinary evolute is ill-defined, and we solve this problem by taking the limit of the evolute as the curvature goes to zero. We show that light focuses not on caustic as ordinarily described in catastrophe optics but on regions which we define as second order evolutes. Experimentally, we show that these second order evolutes still correspond to the brightest regions of the diffraction because of the boundary waves at the vertices of the polygon. This research is valuable in the study of diffraction of slits in general and in optical self-healing where the reconstruction of the transverse structure is investigated.
Spin-dependent k.p Hamiltonian of black phosphorene based on Löwdin partitioning method
Authors: Kafaei Narges , Beiranvand Khadijeh , Sabaeian Mohammad , Ghalambor Dezfuli Abdolmohammad , Zhang Han
Published: July 2018

In this work, we have presented the spinful low energy six-band Hamiltonian representation of black phosphorene about the Γ point based on the k.p model via Löwdin partitioning method. To this end, we have first extracted the spinless low energy two-band Hamiltonian of black phosphorene from the spin-independent sixteen-band Hamiltonian using group theory. Regarding this purpose, we have focused on the band edges of the black phosphorene structure, i.e., Γ4− and Γ2+ related to states B3u and B1g which stand for the lowest sub-band in the conduction band and the highest sub-band in the valence band, respectively. The results show that the energy dispersion is linear in one direction of a crystalline lattice and nonlinear in the other direction. This is due to the orthorhombic lattice and special symmetries of the black phosphorene structure presented in the D2h point group. This is in agreement with our previous results, in which the band structure of black phosphorene was calculated via the infinitesimal basis transformations method. We then derived the spinful Hamiltonian of black phosphorene. Final results have shown that with considering spin-orbit interaction, the conduction and valence bands have been split into six new sub-bands with different degeneracies.
Robust large gap quantum spin Hall insulators in methyl and ethynyl functionalized TlSb buckled honeycombs
Authors: Lu Qing , Ran Ran , Cheng Yan , Wang Busheng , Zeng Zhao-Yi , Chen Xiang-Rong
Published: July 2018

A large bandgap is critical for the applications of quantum spin Hall (QSH) insulators at room temperature. Based on the first-principles calculations, we predict that the methyl and ethynyl functionalized TlSb monolayers, namely, TlSb(CH3)2 and TlSb(C2H)2 films, own QSH states with large bandgaps of 0.13 and 0.272 eV, which possess potential applications at room temperature. For TlSb(CH3)2, the QSH phase arises from the spin-orbit coupling (SOC) induced s-p band inversion, while for TlSb(C2H)2, the QSH phase results from the SOC induced p-p bandgap opening. The QSH effect is further characterized by the Z2 topological invariant and topologically protected edge states. Significantly, the QSH states in TlSb(CH3)2 and TlSb(C2H)2 films are robust against external strain and various methyl/ethynyl coverages, making them especially flexible in the substrate selection. Besides, we find that h-BN is an ideal substrate for TlSb(CH3)2 and TlSb(C2H)2 films to keep QSH states with large bandgaps. Thus, the methyl and ethynyl functionalized TlSb films may be good QSH effect platforms for the design and fabrication of topological electronic devices.
Intermolecular dissociation energies of 1-naphthol·n-alkane complexes
Authors: Knochenmuss Richard , Maity Surajit , Balmer Franziska , Müller Charlotte , Leutwyler Samuel
Published: July 2018

Using the stimulated-emission-pumping/resonant 2-photon ionization (SEP-R2PI) method, we have determined accurate intermolecular dissociation energies D0 of supersonic jet-cooled intermolecular complexes of 1-naphthol (1NpOH) with alkanes, 1NpOH·S, with S = methane, ethane, propane, and n-butane. Experimentally, the smaller alkanes form a single minimum-energy structure, while 1-naphthol·n-butane forms three different isomers. The ground-state dissociation energies D0(S0) for the complexes with propane and n-butane (isomers A and B) were bracketed within ±0.5%, being 16.71 ± 0.08 kJ/mol for S = propane and 20.5 ± 0.1 kJ/mol for isomer A and 20.2 ± 0.1 kJ/mol for isomer B of n-butane. All 1NpOH·S complexes measured previously exhibit a clear dissociation threshold in their hot-band detected SEP-R2PI spectra, but weak SEP-R2PI bands are observed above the putative dissociation onset for the methane and ethane complexes. We attribute these bands to long-lived complexes that retain energy in rotation-type intermolecular vibrations, which couple only weakly to the dissociation coordinates. Accounting for this, we find dissociation energies of D0(S0) = 7.98 ± 0.55 kJ/mol (±7%) for S = methane and 14.5 ± 0.28 kJ/mol (±2%) for S = ethane. The D0 values increase by only 1% upon S0 → S1 excitation of 1-naphthol. The dispersion-corrected density functional theory methods B97-D3, B3LYP-D3, and ωB97X-D predict that the n-alkanes bind dispersively to the naphthalene “Face.” The assignment of the complexes to Face structures is supported by the small spectral shifts of the S0 → S1 electronic origins, which range from +0.5 to −15 cm−1. Agreement with the calculated dissociation energies D0(S0) is quite uneven, the B97-D3 values agree within 5% for propane and n-butane, but differ by up to 20% for methane and ethane. The ωB97X-D method shows good agreement for methane and ethane but overestimates the D0(S0) values for the larger n-alkanes by up to 20%. The agreement of the B3LYP-D3 D0 values is intermediate between the other two methods.