bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Connexin 43 Hemichannel as a Novel Mediator of Sterile and Infectious Inflammatory Diseases
Authors: Li Wei , Bao Guoqiang , Chen Weiqiang , Qiang Xiaoling , Zhu Shu , Wang Shuaiwei , He Mingzhu , Ma Gaifeng , Ochani Mahendar , Al-Abed Yousef , Yang Huan , Tracey Kevin J. , Wang Ping , D’Angelo John , Wang Haichao
Published: January 2018

Cytoplasmic membrane-bound connexin 43 (Cx43) proteins oligomerize into hexameric channels (hemichannels) that can sometimes dock with hemichannels on adjacent cells to form gap junctional (GJ) channels. However, the possible role of Cx43 hemichannels in sterile and infectious inflammatory diseases has not been adequately defined due to the lack of selective interventions. Here we report that a proinflammatory mediator, the serum amyloid A (SAA), resembled bacterial endotoxin by stimulating macrophages to up-regulate Cx43 expression and double-stranded RNA-activated protein kinase R (PKR) phosphorylation in a TLR4-dependent fashion. Two well-known Cx43 mimetic peptides, the GAP26 and TAT-GAP19, divergently affected macrophage hemichannel activities in vitro, and differentially altered the outcome of lethal sepsis in vivo. By screening a panel of Cx43 mimetic peptides, we discovered that one cysteine-containing peptide, P5 (ENVCYD), effectively attenuated hemichannel activities, and significantly suppressed endotoxin-induced release of ATP and HMGB1 in vitro. In vivo, the P5 peptide conferred a significant protection against hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury and lethal microbial infection. Collectively, these findings have suggested a pathogenic role of Cx43 hemichannels in sterile injurious as well as infectious inflammatory diseases possibly through facilitating extracellular ATP efflux to trigger PKR phosphorylation/activation.
Active Terahertz Chiral Metamaterials Based on Phase Transition of Vanadium Dioxide (VO2)
Authors: Wang Shengxiang , Kang Lei , Werner Douglas H.
Published: January 2018

Compared with natural materials, chiral metamaterials have been demonstrated with orders of magnitude stronger chiroptical response, which provides the basis for applications such as ultracompact polarization components and plasmonic-enhanced biosensing. Terahertz chiral metamaterials that allow dynamic polarization control of terahertz waves are of great practical interest, but remain extremely rare. Here, we show that hybrid metamaterials integrated with vanadium dioxide (VO2) exhibiting phase transition can enable dynamically tunable chiroptical responses at terahertz frequencies. In particular, a circular dichroism of ~40° and a maximum polarization rotation of ~200°/λ are observed around 0.7 THz. Furthermore, our study also reveals that the chiroptical response from the proposed metamaterials is strongly dependent on the phase transition of VO2, leading to actively controllable polarization states of the transmitted terahertz waves. This work paves the way for the development of terahertz metadevices capable of enabling active polarization manipulation.
Revisiting the link between body and agency: visual movement congruency enhances intentional binding but is not body-specific
Authors: Zopf Regine , Polito Vince , Moore James
Published: January 2018

Embodiment and agency are key aspects of how we perceive ourselves that have typically been associated with independent mechanisms. Recent work, however, has suggested that these mechanisms are related. The sense of agency arises from recognising a causal influence on the external world. This influence is typically realised through bodily movements and thus the perception of the bodily self could also be crucial for agency. We investigated whether a key index of agency – intentional binding – was modulated by body-specific information. Participants judged the interval between pressing a button and a subsequent tone. We used virtual reality to manipulate two aspects of movement feedback. First, form: participants viewed a virtual hand or sphere. Second, movement congruency: the viewed object moved congruently or incongruently with the participant’s hidden hand. Both factors, form and movement congruency, significantly influenced embodiment. However, only movement congruency influenced intentional binding. Binding was increased for congruent compared to incongruent movement feedback irrespective of form. This shows that the comparison between viewed and performed movements provides an important cue for agency, whereas body-specific visual form does not. We suggest that embodiment and agency mechanisms both depend on comparisons across sensorimotor signals but that they are influenced by distinct factors.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Chemokine receptor 7 overexpression promotes mesenchymal stem cell migration and proliferation via secreting Chemokine ligand 12
Authors: Liu Ling , Chen Jian-Xiao , Zhang Xi-Wen , Sun Qin , Yang Lan , Liu Airan , Hu Shuling , Guo Fengmei , Liu Songqiao , Huang Yingzi , Yang Yi , Qiu Hai-Bo
Published: January 2018

Great interest has been shown in mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy in a wide variety of clinical domains. However, the therapeutic efficiency depends on the proliferation and migration of MSCs. Chemokine receptors are involved in regulating the proliferation and migration to the specific organs of MSCs in different microenvironments. CXC receptor seven (CXCR7), a newly discovered Chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12) receptor, has organ specificity for tumour migration. We hypothesized that CXCR7 expression affects proliferation and migration of MSCs. In present study, we constructed long-term and stable mMSCs lines overexpressing and suppressing CXCR7 modifications with lentiviral vectors. The transduction efficiencies, mRNA and protein expression of CXCR7 were significantly regulated. CXCR7 gene overexpression promoted mMSCs proliferation and migration, whereas suppressing CXCR7 had the opposite effect. Additional CXCL12 improved the vertical migration of mMSCs. The overexpression of CXCR7 increased the MSC-secreted CXCL12, VCAM-1, CD44 and MMP2 levels, which contributed to the improvement of mMSC proliferation and migration. Therefore, overexpressing CXCR7 improved the proliferation and migration of mMSCs, which may be attributable to the CXCL12 secreted by MSCs, leading to a positive feedback loop for CXCL12/CXCR7 axis. Our results may provide a potential method for improving the treatment effectiveness of mMSCs by overexpressing CXCR7.
Physiological response and microRNA expression profiles in head kidney of genetically improved farmed tilapia (GIFT, Oreochromis niloticus) exposed to acute cold stress
Authors: Qiang Jun , Cui Yan T. , Tao Fan Y. , Bao Wen J. , He Jie , Li Xia H. , Xu Pao , Sun Lan Y.
Published: January 2018

Cold stress has a serious impact on the overwintering survival and yield of genetically improved farmed tilapia (GIFT,Oreochromis niloticus). Understanding the physiological and molecular regulation mechanisms of low-temperature adaptation is necessary to help breed new tolerant strains. The semi-lethal low temperature of juvenile GIFT at 96 h was determined as 9.4 °C. We constructed and sequenced two small RNA libraries from head kidney tissues, one for the control (CO) group and one for the 9.4 °C-stressed (LTS) group, and identified 1736 and 1481 known microRNAs (miRNAs), and 164 and 152 novel miRNAs in the CO and LTS libraries, respectively. We verify the expression of nine up-regulated miRNAs and eight down-regulation miRNAs by qRT-PCR, and found their expression patterns were consistent with the sequencing results. We found that cold stress may have produced dysregulation of free radical and lipid metabolism, decreased superoxide dismutase activity, reduced respiratory burst and phagocytic activity of macrophages, increased malondialdehyde content, and adversely affected the physiological adaptation of GIFT, eventually leading to death. This study revealed interactions among miRNAs and signal regulated pathways in GIFT under cold stress that may help to understand the pathways involved in cold resistance.
A Mosquito Inspired Strategy to Implant Microprobes into the Brain
Authors: Shoffstall Andrew J. , Srinivasan Suraj , Willis Mitchell , Stiller Allison M. , Ecker Melanie , Voit Walter E. , Pancrazio Joseph J. , Capadona Jeffrey R.
Published: January 2018

Mosquitos are among the deadliest insects on the planet due to their ability to transmit diseases like malaria through their bite. In order to bite, a mosquito must insert a set of micro-sized needles through the skin to reach vascular structures. The mosquito uses a combination of mechanisms including an insertion guide to enable it to bite and feed off of larger animals. Here, we report on a biomimetic strategy inspired by the mosquito insertion guide to enable the implantation of intracortical microelectrodes into the brain. Next generation microelectrode designs leveraging ultra-small dimensions and/or flexible materials offer the promise of increased performance, but present difficulties in reliable implantation. With the biomimetic guide in place, the rate of successful microprobe insertion increased from 37.5% to 100% due to the rise in the critical buckling force of the microprobes by 3.8-fold. The prototype guides presented here provide a reproducible method to augment the insertion of small, flexible devices into the brain. In the future, similar approaches may be considered and applied to the insertion of other difficult to implant medical devices.
Loss of the Mitochondrial Fatty Acid β-Oxidation Protein Medium-Chain Acyl-Coenzyme A Dehydrogenase Disrupts Oxidative Phosphorylation Protein Complex Stability and Function
Authors: Lim Sze Chern , Tajika Makiko , Shimura Masaru , Carey Kirstyn T. , Stroud David A. , Murayama Kei , Ohtake Akira , McKenzie Matthew
Published: January 2018

Medium-chain acyl-Coenzyme A dehydrogenase (MCAD) is involved in the initial step of mitochondrial fatty acid β-oxidation (FAO). Loss of function results in MCAD deficiency, a disorder that usually presents in childhood with hypoketotic hypoglycemia, vomiting and lethargy. While the disruption of mitochondrial fatty acid metabolism is the primary metabolic defect, secondary defects in mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) may also contribute to disease pathogenesis. Therefore, we examined OXPHOS activity and stability in MCAD-deficient patient fibroblasts that have no detectable MCAD protein. We found a deficit in mitochondrial oxygen consumption, with reduced steady-state levels of OXPHOS complexes I, III and IV, as well as the OXPHOS supercomplex. To examine the mechanisms involved, we generated an MCAD knockout (KO) using human 143B osteosarcoma cells. These cells also exhibited defects in OXPHOS complex function and steady-state levels, as well as disrupted biogenesis of newly-translated OXPHOS subunits. Overall, our findings suggest that the loss of MCAD is associated with a reduction in steady-state OXPHOS complex levels, resulting in secondary defects in OXPHOS function which may contribute to the pathology of MCAD deficiency.
Power and chirp effects on the frequency stability of resonant dispersive waves generated in photonic crystal fibres
Authors: Cao Tao , Liu Mingchen , Xu Chang , Yan Jikun , Shen Chaochao , Liu Shaozhen , Peng Hao , Peng Jiahui , Sokolov Alexei V.
Published: January 2018

Optimization of laser output parameters vs. f-to-2f beating signals can be mutually contradicting, when an octave-spanning supercontinuum is employed for f-to-2f measurements. We show that resonant dispersive waves will solve this issue, thanks to their frequency stability against changes in laser power and chirping.
Author Correction: Searching for signatures across microbial communities: Metagenomic analysis of soil samples from mangrove and other ecosystems
Authors: Imchen Madangchanok , Kumavath Ranjith , Barh Debmalya , Azevedo Vasco , Ghosh Preetam , Viana Marcus , Wattam Alice R.
Published: January 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML version of this paper. The error has been fixed in the paper.
Application of Rotating Magnetic Fields Increase the Activity of Antimicrobials Against Wound Biofilm Pathogens
Authors: Junka A. F. , Rakoczy R. , Szymczyk P. , Bartoszewicz M. , Sedghizadeh P. P. , Fijałkowski K.
Published: January 2018

Infective complications are a major factor contributing to wound chronicity and can be associated with significant morbidity or mortality. Wound bacteria are protected in biofilm communities and are highly resistant to immune system components and to antimicrobials used in wound therapy. There is an urgent medical need to more effectively eradicate wound biofilm pathogens. In the present work, we tested the impact of such commonly used antibiotics and antiseptics as gentamycin, ciprofloxacin, octenidine, chlorhexidine, polihexanidine, and ethacridine lactate delivered to Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms in the presence of rotating magnetic fields (RMFs) of 10–50 Hz frequency and produced by a customized RMF generator. Fifty percent greater reduction in biofilm growth and biomass was observed after exposure to RMF as compared to biofilms not exposed to RMF. Our results suggest that RMF as an adjunct to antiseptic wound care can significantly improve antibiofilm activity, which has important translational potential for clinical applications.
Influence of In-Gap States on the Formation of Two-Dimensional Election Gas at ABO3/SrTiO3 Interfaces
Authors: Li Cheng-Jian , Xue Hong-Xia , Qu Guo-Liang , Shen Sheng-Chun , Hong Yan-Peng , Wang Xin-Xin , Liu Ming-rui , Jiang Wei-min , Badica Petre , He Lin , Dou Rui-Fen , Xiong Chang-Min , Lü Wei-ming , Nie Jia-Cai
Published: January 2018

We explored in-gap states (IGSs) in perovskite oxide heterojunction films. We report that IGSs in these films play a crucial role in determining the formation and properties of interfacial two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG). We report that electron trapping by IGSs opposes charge transfer from the film to the interface. The IGS in films yielded insulating interfaces with polar discontinuity and explained low interface carrier density of conducting interfaces. An ion trapping model was proposed to explain the physics of the IGSs and some experimental findings, such as the unexpected formation of 2DEG at the initially insulating LaCrO3/SrTiO3 interface and the influence of substitution layers on 2DEG.
Interactions of Biodegradable Ionic Liquids with a Model Naphthenic Acid
Authors: Wu Chongchong , De Visscher Alex , Gates Ian Donald
Published: January 2018

Density functional theory models are used to examine five biodegradable ionic liquids (ILs) each one consisting of a substitutional group (-OH, -NH2, -COOH, -COOCH3, and -OCH3) incorporated into the cation of 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([BMIM][BF4]). The results reveal that hydrogen atoms in -NH2, -COOH, and -COOCH3 form intramolecular hydrogen bonds with fluorine atoms in [BF4]−, whereas hydrogen atoms in -OH and -OCH3 do not form hydrogen bonds with [BF4]−. Further analysis of electron density at bond critical points and noncovalent interactions suggest that [BMIM][BF4] with -COOH has stronger intramolecular hydrogen bonds than other ILs. The extraction mechanism for a model naphthenic acid is hydrogen bonding, with F···H being the strongest hydrogen bond and O···H ranking second. More intermolecular hydrogen bonds occur when model naphthenic acid is adsorbed by [BMIM][BF4] with -COOH and -COOCH3. The interaction energy between model naphthenic acid and ILs with -COOH and -COOCH3 is higher than that with -OH, -NH2, and -OCH3.
RFX1 and RFX3 Transcription Factors Interact with the D Sequence of Adeno-Associated Virus Inverted Terminal Repeat and Regulate AAV Transduction
Authors: Julien Laura , Chassagne Julie , Peccate Cécile , Lorain Stéphanie , Piétri-Rouxel France , Danos Olivier , Benkhelifa-Ziyyat Sofia
Published: January 2018

Adeno-associated virus (AAV) transduction efficiency depends on the way in which cellular proteins process viral genomes in the nucleus. In this study, we have investigated the binding of nuclear proteins to the double stranded D (dsD) sequence of the AAV inverted terminal repeat (ITRs) by electromobility shift assay. We present here several lines of evidence that transcription factors belonging to the RFX protein family bind specifically and selectively to AAV2 and AAV1 dsD sequences. Using supershift experiments, we characterize complexes containing RFX1 homodimers and RFX1/RFX3 heterodimers. Following transduction of HEK-293 cells, the AAV genome can be pulled-down by RFX1 and RFX3 antibodies. Moreover, our data suggest that RFX proteins which interact with transcriptional enhancers of several mammalian DNA viruses, can act as regulators of AAV mediated transgene expression.
Exhaled air dispersion during bag-mask ventilation and sputum suctioning - Implications for infection control
Authors: Chan Matthew T. V. , Chow Benny K. , Lo Thomas , Ko Fanny W. , Ng Susanna S. , Gin Tony , Hui David S.
Published: January 2018

Mask ventilation and coughing during oro-tracheal suctioning produce aerosols that enhance nosocomial transmission of respiratory infections. We examined the extent of exhaled air dispersion from a human-patient-simulator during mask ventilation by different groups of healthcare workers and coughing bouts. The simulator was programmed to mimic varying severity of lung injury. Exhaled airflow was marked with tiny smoke particles, and highlighted by laser light-sheet. We determined the normalized exhaled air concentration in the leakage jet plume from the light scattered by smoke particles. Smoke concentration ≥20% was considered as significant exposure. Exhaled air leaked from mask-face interface in the transverse plane was most severe (267 ± 44 mm) with Ambu silicone resuscitator performed by nurses. Dispersion was however similar among anesthesiologists/intensivists, respiratory physicians and medical students using Ambu or Laerdal silicone resuscitator, p = 0.974. The largest dispersion was 860 ± 93 mm during normal coughing effort without tracheal intubation and decreased with worsening coughing efforts. Oro-tracheal suctioning reduced dispersion significantly, p < 0.001, and was more effective when applied continuously. Skills to ensure good fit during mask ventilation are important in preventing air leakage through the mask-face interface. Continuous oro-tracheal suctioning minimized exhaled air dispersion during coughing bouts when performing aerosol-generating procedures.
Sustainable terpene-based polyamides via anionic polymerization of a pinene-derived lactam
Authors: Winnacker Malte , Sag Jacob
Published: January 2018

A sustainable lactam, which is derived from the renewable terpene β-pinene, is converted to polyamides with prosperous thermal properties via a convenient anionic ring-opening polymerization (ROP).
Catalytic oxidative coupling promoted by bismuth TEMPOxide complexes
Authors: Schwamm R. J. , Lein M. , Coles M. P. , Fitchett C. M.
Published: January 2018

Bismuth(iii) TEMPOxide complexes are active catalysts for oxidative coupling reactions to generate TEMPO silylethers.
Synthesis of functionalized helical BN-benzo[c]phenanthrenes
Authors: Abengózar Alberto , García-García Patricia , Sucunza David , Pérez-Redondo Adrián , Vaquero Juan J.
Published: January 2018

A novel parent BN-benzo[c]phenanthrene, with helical chirality and remarkable structural features, has been easily obtained in three steps with a global yield of 55%.
Controlled self-assembly of π-stacked/H-bonded 1D crystal structures from polyfluorinated arylamines and 18-crown-6 (2 : 1). Associatevs.co-former fluorescence properties
Authors: Vaganova Tamara A. , Gatilov Yurij V. , Pishchur Denis P. , Chuikov Igor P. , Malykhin Evgenij V.
Published: January 2018

Co-crystallization of substituted (H, F, CN, CF3) polyfluorinated arylamines with 18-crown-6 to form π-stacked H-bonded 1D assemblies can both produce and quench solid-state fluorescence.
Breaking the strong 1D growth habit to yield quasi-equiaxed REPO4 nanocrystals (RE = La–Dy) via solvothermal reaction and investigation of photoluminescence
Authors: Wang Zhihao , Shi Xiaofei , Wang Xuejiao , Zhu Qi , Kim Byung-Nam , Sun Xudong , Li Ji-Guang
Published: January 2018

Quasi-equiaxed REPO4 (RE = La–Dy) nanocrystals have been solvothermally synthesized and white-light emission has been achieved with h-(Gd0.95Dy0.05)PO4 nanocrystals.
Spatial requirement for PAMO for transformation of non-native linear substrates
Authors: Carvalho Alexandra T. P. , Dourado Daniel F. A. R. , Skvortsov Timofey , de Abreu Miguel , Ferguson Lyndsey J. , Quinn Derek J. , Moody Thomas S. , Huang Meilan
Published: January 2018

We found that the movement of L289 in an active quadruple mutant is crucial for reshaping the catalytic site to enable the non-native aliphatic substrate to adopt a catalytic capable pose in PAMO. The findings would shed light on rational engineering of PAMO.
Predicted detonation properties at the Chapman–Jouguet state for proposed energetic materials (MTO and MTO3N) from combined ReaxFF and quantum mechanics reactive dynamics
Authors: Zhou Tingting , Zybin Sergey V. , Goddard William A. , Cheng Tao , Naserifar Saber , Jaramillo-Botero Andres , Huang Fenglei
Published: January 2018

The first-principle predicted detonation performances of two new energetic materials are comparable to HMX, making them promising.
Chemical tracer diffusion of Sr and Co in polycrystalline Ca-deficient CaMnO3−δwith CaMn2O4precipitates
Authors: Desissa Temesgen D. , Kanas Nikola , Singh Sathya P. , Wiik Kjell , Einarsrud Mari-Ann , Norby Truls
Published: January 2018

Enhanced grain boundary diffusivity on B-site of perovskite CaMnO3with CaMn2O4precipitates determines operational window of n-type oxide for thermoelectrics.
Photoexcited charge carrier dynamics of interconnected TiO2 nanoparticles: evidence of enhancement of charge separation at anatase–rutile particle interfaces
Authors: Shingai Daiki , Ide Yusuke , Sohn Woon Yong , Katayama Kenji
Published: January 2018

Hydrothermal treatment can improve the charge separation efficiency of P25.
Bimetallic gold(i) complexes of photoswitchable phosphines: synthesis and uses in cooperative catalysis
Authors: Arif T. , Cazorla C. , Bogliotti N. , Saleh N. , Blanchard F. , Gandon V. , Métivier R. , Xie J. , Voituriez A. , Marinetti A.
Published: January 2018

The first photoswitchable bimetallic gold catalysts based on an azobenzene backbone have been synthesized and their catalytic properties have been investigated.
Alkaline-earth metal phenylphosphonates and their intercalation chemistry
Authors: Melánová Klára , Beneš Ludvík , Svoboda Jan , Zima Vítězslav , Pospíšil Miroslav , Kovář Petr
Published: January 2018

Alcohol and amine intercalates with hosts based on alkaline-earth metal phenylphosphonates are reviewed.
New-generation integrated devices based on dye-sensitized and perovskite solar cells
Authors: Yun Sining , Qin Yong , Uhl Alexander R. , Vlachopoulos Nick , Yin Min , Li Dongdong , Han Xiaogang , Hagfeldt Anders
Published: January 2018

New-generation integrated devices based on dye-sensitized and perovskite solar cells for energy harvesting and storage are significantly important for self-powering systems and portable/wearable electronics.
Magnetic flocculation for nanoparticle separation and catalyst recycling
Authors: Leshuk Tim , Holmes Andrew B. , Ranatunga Duleeka , Chen Paul Z. , Jiang Yunsheng , Gu Frank
Published: January 2018

Magnetic flocculation is demonstrated here as a new approach and general platform for nanoparticle recovery, enabling the simple magnetic collection and recycling of non-magnetic nanoparticles.
Iron triad nanomaterials and their sustainable application in the environment
Authors: Zhang Qiuya , Zhou Wei , Cui Yubo , Lyu Chaojie , Liu Tong , Zhang Rongzun , Zhang Rui , Zheng Jinlong , Shi Zhaoliang , Lu Chengxin , Guo Lin
Published: January 2018

It reviews the most recent progress in detection, treatment, and recycling of contaminants mainly from wastewater using iron triad nanomaterials.
Comparative assessment of the chronic effects of five nano-perovskites on Daphnia magna: a structure-based toxicity mechanism
Authors: Zhou Tingting , Fan Wenhong , Liu Yingying , Wang Xiangrui
Published: January 2018

Perovskite nanomaterials (PNMs) have significant application potential, however the fate and potential ecological effects of PNMs released into aquatic environments are completely unknown.
DFT calculation of oxygen adsorption on platinum nanoparticles: coverage and size effects
Authors: Verga L. G. , Aarons J. , Sarwar M. , Thompsett D. , Russell A. E. , Skylaris C.-K.
Published: January 2018

DFT calculations are used to simultaneously explore the effects of nanoparticle size and coverage for O adsorption on Pt nanoparticles.
Structural characterization of two endopolysaccharides from Phellinus sp. and their immunologic effects by intragastric administration in a healthy mammalian model
Authors: Ma Xiao-kui , Ma Yao , Peterson Eric Charles , Guo Wen ying , Li Zhong Yu , Li Yu
Published: January 2018

Two purified endopolysaccharides derived from Phellinus sp. can improve the immune response by increasing the production of cytokines in the healthy mice.
Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy: an advanced method for analysis of nanocarbon materials chemical composition
Authors: Lebedev V. F. , Rabchinskii M. K. , Kozlyakov M. S. , Stepanov D. N. , Shvidchenko A. V. , Nikonorov N. V. , Vul' A. Ya.
Published: January 2018

The LIBS technique is a valuable and effective tool for quality control and the characterization of various nanocarbon structures.
Razor-printed sticker microdevices for cell-based applications
Authors: Stallcop Loren E. , Álvarez-García Yasmín R. , Reyes-Ramos Ana M. , Ramos-Cruz Karla P. , Morgan Molly M. , Shi Yatao , Li Lingjun , Beebe David J. , Domenech Maribella , Warrick Jay W.
Published: January 2018

Identification and validation of a biocompatible double-sided adhesive tape enables ultra-rapid razor-printing of sticker microdevices for cell-based applications.
Thermal and nonlinear optical studies of newly synthesized EDOT based bent-core and hockey-stick like liquid crystals
Authors: Gowda Ashwathanarayana , Jacob Litwin , Joy Nithin , Philip Reji , R Pratibha , Kumar Sandeep
Published: January 2018

The synthesis and characterisation of novel bent-core and hockey-stick like liquid crystals from EDOT are reported. All the compounds exhibit an enantiotropic mesophase with a wide temperature range. These mesogens show good photophysical and nonlinear optical properties.
High-capacity and long-life lithium storage boosted by pseudocapacitance in three-dimensional MnO–Cu–CNT/graphene anodes
Authors: Wang Junyong , Deng Qinglin , Li Mengjiao , Jiang Kai , Hu Zhigao , Chu Junhao
Published: January 2018

Cycling performance and morphological change of a MnO–Cu–CG electrode at 5 A g−1 for 3500 cycles.
Improved quantum efficiency models of CZTSe: GE nanolayer solar cells with a linear electric field
Authors: Lee Sanghyun , Price Kent J. , Saucedo Edgardo , Giraldo Sergio
Published: January 2018

An exact analytical device model of quantum efficiency under a set of biases is developed with a linear electric field.
Polydiacetylenic nanofibers as new siRNA vehicles for in vitro and in vivo delivery
Authors: Neuberg P. , Hamaidi I. , Danilin S. , Ripoll M. , Lindner V. , Nothisen M. , Wagner A. , Kichler A. , Massfelder T. , Remy J.-S.
Published: January 2018

Polydiacetylenic nanofibers (PDA-Nfs) obtained by photopolymerization of surfactant 1 were optimized for intracellular delivery of small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), and used for silencing of Lim-1 oncogene.
Total synthesis of five natural eremophilane-type sesquiterpenoids
Authors: Meng Zhe , Liu Bo
Published: January 2018

The first total synthesis of five eremophilane-type sesquiterpenoids is reported.
FeCl3-catalyzed dimerization/elimination of 1,1-diarylalkenes: efficient synthesis of functionalized 4H-chromenes
Authors: Ma Chao , Zhao Yu
Published: January 2018

An efficient synthesis of valuable poly-substituted 4H-chromenes was developed via a [4 + 2] cycloaddition followed by the elimination of 1,1-diarylalkenes.
Structural elucidation of major selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) metabolites for doping control
Authors: Garg Neeraj , Hansson Annelie , Knych Heather K. , Stanley Scott D. , Thevis Mario , Bondesson Ulf , Hedeland Mikael , Globisch Daniel
Published: January 2018

Elucidated and validated structure of the major SARM doping drug metabolites.
Swelling properties of thermoresponsive/hydrophilic co-networks with functional crosslinked domain structures
Authors: Ida Shohei , Kitanaka Hironobu , Ishikawa Tatsuya , Kanaoka Shokyoku , Hirokawa Yoshitsugu
Published: January 2018

We focused on the monomer/crosslinker sequence in a gel network and designed novel thermoresponsive/hydrophilic amphiphilic co-networks with crosslinked domain structures.
Oxidation-responsive micelles by a one-pot polymerization-induced self-assembly approach
Authors: Sobotta Fabian H. , Hausig Franziska , Harz Dominic O. , Hoeppener Stephanie , Schubert Ulrich S. , Brendel Johannes C.
Published: January 2018

Combining a sequential, one-pot RAFT polymerization with the polymerization-induced self-assembly process results in a versatile oxidation-responsive carrier system.
Transmissive-to-black fast electrochromic switching from a long conjugated pendant group and a highly dispersed polymer/SWNT
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Tsai Chou-Yi , Abidin Taufik , Jiang Jyh-Chiang , Shie Wan-Ru , Li Lain-Jong , Liaw Der-Jang
Published: January 2018

Electrochromic polymer (ECPblack) demonstrates an ultrahigh contrast ratio (over 80%) in most of the visible regions, and its electrochemical and electrochromic behaviors remarkably accelerate by doping nanotube/polytriarylamine.
Effects of incorporating different chalcogenophene comonomers into random acceptor terpolymers on the morphology and performance of all-polymer solar cells
Authors: An Yujin , Oh Jiyeon , Chen Shanshan , Lee Byongkyu , Lee Sang Myeon , Han Daehee , Yang Changduk
Published: January 2018

A new family of NDI-based random terpolymers, incorporating a small amount (10%) of different chalcogenophene units (-Fu, -Th, -Se) was synthesized and investigated for all-PSCs.
New field-induced single ion magnets based on prolate Er(iii) and Yb(iii) ions: tuning the energy barrierUeffby the choice of counterions within an N3-tridentate Schiff-base scaffold
Authors: Gorczyński Adam , Marcinkowski Dawid , Kubicki Maciej , Löffler Marta , Korabik Maria , Karbowiak Mirosław , Wiśniewski Piotr , Rudowicz Czesław , Patroniak Violetta
Published: January 2018

Counterions modulate the structure and magnetic properties of rarely observed high-coordinate SIM species.
Copper-catalyzed peri-selective direct sulfenylation of 1-naphthylamines with disulfides
Authors: Xiong Yan-Shi , Yu Yang , Weng Jiang , Lu Gui
Published: January 2018

A copper-catalyzed peri-selective direct C–H sulfenylation of 1-naphthylamines with disulfides was developed.
ortho-Amino group functionalized 2,2′-bipyridine based Ru(ii) complex catalysed alkylation of secondary alcohols, nitriles and amines using alcohols
Authors: Roy Bivas Chandra , Debnath Subhankar , Chakrabarti Kaushik , Paul Bhaskar , Maji Milan , Kundu Sabuj
Published: January 2018

The catalytic activity of Ru(ii) complexes in sustainable C–C and C–N bond formation is enhanced by using a functionalized 2,2′-bipyridine ligand.
Large-scale production of CdO/Cd(OH)2 nanocomposites for non-enzyme sensing and supercapacitor applications
Authors: Khairy Mohamed , Ayoub Haytham A. , Banks Craig E.
Published: January 2018

A simple fabrication of CdO/Cd(OH)2 nanocomposites was developed and explored for electrochemical-based devices. The nanocomposite is shown to be a sensitive electrode material for nitrite determination in water samples as well as a promising supercapacitor.
Magnetic CoFe2O4 nanoparticles supported on graphene oxide (CoFe2O4/GO) with high catalytic activity for peroxymonosulfate activation and degradation of rhodamine B
Authors: Tabit Rida , Amadine Othmane , Essamlali Younes , Dânoun Karim , Rhihil Abdallah , Zahouily Mohamed
Published: January 2018

Herein, we report the preparation of magnetic CoFe2O4 nanoparticles and CoFe2O4/graphene oxide (GO) hybrids and evaluate their catalytic activity as heterogeneous peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activators for the decomposition of rhodamine B.
Biochar production and applications in soil fertility and carbon sequestration – a sustainable solution to crop-residue burning in India
Authors: Mohan Dinesh , Abhishek Kumar , Sarswat Ankur , Patel Manvendra , Singh Prachi , Pittman Charles U.
Published: January 2018

A sustainable solution to crop residues burning by converting residues into biochars is provided.
Thermal and mechanical reinforcement of a novel paraffin-based hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene (HTPB) binder containing a three-dimension (3D) diurea–paraffin wax (DU–PW) for prevention of PW leakage
Authors: Gao Xia , Zhao Tianbo , Luo Guan , Zheng Baohui , Huang Hui , Han Xue , Ma Rui , Chai Yuqiao
Published: January 2018

DU is creatively used as supporting materials to shape-stablize PW. The prepared DU–PW composite can effectively improve the thermal and mechanical properties of PW/HTPB, indicating a prospect to prevent PW leakage in PBX.
Revealing elasticity of largely deformed cells flowing along confining microchannels
Authors: Hu Shuhuan , Wang Ran , Tsang Chi Man , Tsao Sai Wah , Sun Dong , Lam Raymond H. W.
Published: January 2018

Deformability is a hallmark of malignant tumor cells.
2-Nitrophenol sensor-based wet-chemically prepared binary doped Co3O4/Al2O3nanosheets by an electrochemical approach
Authors: Rahman Mohammed M. , Alam M. M. , Asiri Abdullah M.
Published: January 2018

This potential research work introduces a route of future sensitive sensor development with Co3O4/Al2O3NSs by electrochemical approach to selective detection of hazardous and carcinogenic chemicals in environmental and health care fields.
Magnet-responsive, superhydrophobic fabrics from waterborne, fluoride-free coatings
Authors: Fu Sida , Zhou Hua , Wang Hongxia , Ding Jie , Liu Shuai , Zhao Yan , Niu Haitao , Rutledge Gregory C. , Lin Tong
Published: January 2018

Durable superhydrophobic fabrics with magnetic response ability have been prepared by waterborne, fluoride-free coatings.
Piperazinium-mediated crosslinked polyimide-polydimethylsiloxane (PI-PDMS) copolymer membranes: the effect of PDMS content on CO2 separation
Authors: You Hyelim , Hossain Iqubal , Kim Tae-Hyun
Published: January 2018

Polyimide-polydimethylsiloxane copolymer membranes crosslinked with piperazinium were prepared for high performance CO2 separation.
Mesoporous TiO2 coated ZnFe2O4 nanocomposite loading on activated fly ash cenosphere for visible light photocatalysis
Authors: Fan Hougang , Chen Dandan , Ai Xuefeng , Han Shuo , Wei Maobin , Yang Lili , Liu Huilian , Yang Jinghai
Published: January 2018

Mesoporous TiO2 coating ZnFe2O4 nanocomposite loading on different amounts of activated fly ash cenosphere (AFAC) for visible light photocatalysis of RhB were successfully synthesized by sol–gel and hydrothermal methods.
A 3D architecture composite of porous vanadium nitride nanoribbons and reduced graphene oxide as a high-efficiency counter electrode for dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Wang Guiqiang , Hou Shuo , Yan Chao , Zhang Wei
Published: January 2018

3D PVNN/RGO composite electrode with hierarchical porosity exhibits superior photovoltaic performance competing with that of the conventional Pt electrode.
Myelin-specific T cells carry and release magnetite PGLA–PEG COOH nanoparticles in the mouse central nervous system
Authors: D'Elios M. M. , Aldinucci A. , Amoriello R. , Benagiano M. , Bonechi E. , Maggi P. , Flori A. , Ravagli C. , Saer D. , Cappiello L. , Conti L. , Valtancoli B. , Bencini A. , Menichetti L. , Baldi G. , Ballerini C.
Published: January 2018

Magnetite nanoparticles enter non-phagocytic myelin-specific T cells and reach the central nervous system after in vivo transfer.
Chemical reaction-transport model of oxidized diethylzinc based on quantum mechanics and computational fluid dynamics approaches
Authors: Li Jian , Gan Hanlin , Xu Yifeng , Wang Chaoyang , Gu Feng Long , Wang Gang
Published: January 2018

Chemical reaction-transport model of ZnO thin film deposited by DEZn and O2 in MOCVD.
Chitosan-derived three-dimensional porous carbon for fast removal of methylene blue from wastewater
Authors: Jin Qian , Li Yadong , Yang Desong , Cui Jianghu
Published: January 2018

The chitosan-derived three-dimensional porous carbon (CTC) consisting of large-diameter channels and mesopores was prepared by two steps activation and used for the removal of methylene blue (MB) from wastewater.
Controlled synthesis of brightly fluorescent CH3NH3PbBr3perovskite nanocrystals employing Pb(C17H33COO)2as the sole lead source
Authors: Fu Xiaoming , Peng Zhiwei , Zhang Chi , Xia Yong , Zhang Jianbing , Luo Wei , Guo L. Jay , Li Honglang , Wang YuHuang , Zhang Daoli
Published: January 2018

At an optimal short to long-chain alkyl ammonium ratio of 4 : 6, the growth of CH3NH3PbBr3nanoplatelets can be selectively suppressed with Pb(C17H33COO)2as the sole lead source, enhancing the PLQY of the produced CH3NH3PbBr3nanocrystals.
A small molecule targeting glutathione activates Nrf2 and inhibits cancer cell growth through promoting Keap-1S-glutathionylation and inducing apoptosis
Authors: Wang LiHong , Qu GuoJing , Gao YuanDi , Su Le , Ye Qing , Jiang Fan , Zhao BaoXiang , Miao JunYing
Published: January 2018

The level of glutathione (GSH) is increased in many cancer cells.
Assembly of large area crack free clay porous films
Authors: Huang Xiayun , Ivanova Nina , Strzelec Andrea , Zacharia Nicole S.
Published: January 2018

A method for making inverse opal-like porous clay films that are crack-free over a large area (on the scale of square centimeters).
Polysulfides made from re-purposed waste are sustainable materials for removing iron from water
Authors: Lundquist Nicholas A. , Worthington Max J. H. , Adamson Nick , Gibson Christopher T. , Johnston Martin R. , Ellis Amanda V. , Chalker Justin M.
Published: January 2018

A polymer prepared by co-polymerisation of sulfur and canola oil removed Fe3+ from water. Microwave irradiation was convenient in promoting the polymerisation.
Pt nanoparticles decorated rose-like Bi2O2CO3 configurations for efficient photocatalytic removal of water organic pollutants
Authors: Chen Huijuan , Zhou Zhongfu , Greaves G. Neville , Nigar Salma , Cao Huaqiang , Zhao Tingkai , Lu Xionggang
Published: January 2018

Pt nanoparticles decorated with rose-like Bi2O2CO3 configurations were synthesized via a simple photoreduction method at room temperature.
Enhanced crystallinity of CH3NH3PbI3 by the pre-coordination of PbI2–DMSO powders for highly reproducible and efficient planar heterojunction perovskite solar cells
Authors: Lee Jiyong , Baik Seunghyun
Published: January 2018

The pre-coordinated PbI2–DMSO powders improved efficiency and reproducibility of perovskite solar cells with enhanced crystallinity of the CH3NH3PbI3 film.
Reversible exchange of wetting state of a hydrophobic surface via phase change material coating
Authors: Yilbas Bekir Sami , Ali Haider , Al-Sharafi Abdullah , Al-Aqeeli Nasser
Published: January 2018

Reversible exchange of the wetting state of a hydrophobic surface is examined.
High performance composites of spinel LiMn2O4/3DG for lithium ion batteries
Authors: Luo X. D. , Yin Y. Z. , Yuan M. , Zeng W. , Lin G. , Huang B. , Li Y. W. , Xiao S. H.
Published: January 2018

3DG/LiMn2O4composites exhibit a high specific capacity and excellent rate performance.
Synthesis, chiroptical properties, and self-assembled nanoparticles of chiral conjugated polymers based on optically stable helical aromatic esters
Authors: Zhang Chao , Li Meng , Lu Hai-Yan , Chen Chuan-Feng
Published: January 2018

Chiral conjugated polymers based on helical aromatic esters and self-assembled nanoparticles were prepared and showed strong fluorescence and CPL properties.
Silica gel-immobilized multidisciplinary materials applicable in stereoselective organocatalysis and HPLC separation
Authors: Tůma J. , Kohout M.
Published: January 2018

Novel multidisciplinary silica gel-based materials were successfully employed in highly stereoselective Michael addition and as stationary phases in HPLC separation.
A new strategy for the sensitive electrochemical determination of nitrophenol isomers using β-cyclodextrin derivative-functionalized silicon carbide
Authors: Wu Shilian , Fan Shuangmei , Tan Shuang , Wang Jiaqiang , Li Can-Peng
Published: January 2018

An illustration of simultaneous electrochemical determination of nitrophenol isomers using β-cyclodextrin derivative-functionalized silicon carbide.
Rational design of electrocatalysts for simultaneously promoting bulk charge separation and surface charge transfer in solar water splitting photoelectrodes
Authors: Hu Yingfei , Wu Yangqing , Feng Jianyong , Huang Huiting , Zhang Chunchen , Qian Qinfeng , Fang Tao , Xu Jun , Wang Peng , Li Zhaosheng , Zou Zhigang
Published: January 2018

The composite AgOx/NiOx electrocatalyst was found to possess both kinetic and thermodynamic functions.
Mesoporous carbon hollow spheres: carbonisation-temperature-dependent delivery of therapeutic proteins
Authors: Ghosh Trisha , Mantri Manasi , Gu Zhengying , Kalantari Mohammad , Yu Meihua , Yu Chengzhong
Published: January 2018

This work reports the significance of the carbonisation temperature of mesoporous carbon hollow spheres (MCHS) in therapeutic protein delivery.
A three-dimensional thiophene-annulated perylene bisimide as a fullerene-free acceptor for a high performance polymer solar cell with the highest PCE of 8.28% and a VOC over 1.0 V
Authors: Luo Zhenghui , Liu Tao , Cheng Wanli , Wu Kailong , Xie Dongjun , Huo Lijun , Sun Yanming , Yang Chuluo
Published: January 2018

PSCs based on BPT-S achieved the PCE of 8.28%, which is the highest value based on S-annulated PBIs acceptors so far.
THz photonics in two dimensional materials and metamaterials: properties, devices and prospects
Authors: Shi Jinhui , Li Zhongjun , Sang David K. , Xiang Yuanjiang , Li Jianqing , Zhang Shuang , Zhang Han
Published: January 2018

Terahertz radiation refers to a broad electromagnetic spectrum range between microwave and infrared waves, which is also known as the terahertz gap due to inadequate materials and technologies for its generation and manipulation.
Recent advances in quantum dot-based electrochemiluminescence sensors
Authors: Chen Xueqian , Liu Yang , Ma Qiang
Published: January 2018

We discuss the performance of QD-based ECL sensors. We discuss the critical sensing mechanisms of QD-based ECL sensors. We review the construction strategies of QDs in ECL sensing systems. We highlight advances and future trends in QD-based ECL sensors.
Impaired contraction of blood clots as a novel prothrombotic mechanism in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Le Minh Giang , Peshkova Alina D. , Andrianova Izabella A. , Sibgatullin Timur B. , Maksudova Adelia N. , Weisel John W. , Litvinov Rustem I.
Published: January 2018

The aim of this work was to examine a possible role of clot contraction/retraction in thrombotic complications of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Using a novel automated method, we investigated kinetics of clot contraction in the blood of 51 SLE patients and 60 healthy donors. The functionality of platelets in the SLE patients was assessed using flow cytometry by expression of P-selectin and fibrinogen-binding capacity. The rate and degree of clot contraction were significantly reduced in SLE patients compared with healthy subjects, especially in the patients with higher blood levels of anti-dsDNA antibodies. The reduced platelet contractility correlated with partial refractoriness of platelets isolated from the blood of SLE patients to stimulation induced by the thrombin receptor activating peptide. To test if the anti-dsDNA autoantibodies cause continuous platelet activation, followed by exhaustion and dysfunction of the cells, we added purified exogenous anti-dsDNA autoantibodies from SLE patients to normal blood before clotting. In support of this hypothesis, the antibodies first enhanced clot contraction and then suppressed it in a time-dependent manner. Importantly, a direct correlation of clot contraction parameters with the disease severity suggests that the reduced compactness of intravascular clots and thrombi could be a pathogenic factor in SLE that may exaggerate the impaired blood flow at the site of thrombosis. In conclusion, autoantibodies in SLE can affect platelet contractility, resulting in reduced ability of clots and thrombi to shrink in volume, which increases vessel obstruction and may aggravate the course and outcomes of thrombotic complications in SLE.
Perceptual image hash function via associative memory‐based self‐correcting
Authors: Li Yuenan , Wang Dongdong , Wang Jingru
Published: January 2018

Paralleling with the revolutionary development of the Internet, there has been increasing concern about the copyright infringement of digital media. A central problem in copyright protection is to accurately and efficiently identify the illegal copies of copyrighted contents. Perceptual hash function, which summarises the perceptual characteristics of digital media to a short digest, is a low‐cost solution to this problem. Owing to the easy‐to‐manipulate nature of digital media, a major challenge in designing perceptual hash function is to achieve the robustness against distortion. To tackle this problem, an associative memory‐based hash function is introduced. The proposed work repairs the distortions on local image structures via associative memory‐based de‐noising, in the hope of simulating the self‐correcting mechanism in human memory. The shape invariant descriptors of de‐noised structures are then encoded to binary bits. Experimental results confirm that the proposed work outperforms representative algorithms, and it can achieve an equal error rate of in content identification with only 80 bits.
Multi‐relay cooperative transmission based on rateless codes and adaptive demodulation
Authors: Lei Weijia , Song Haina
Published: January 2018

A rate adaption scheme is given at the receiver using rateless codes and log‐likelihood ratio (LLR) threshold‐based adaptive demodulation (ADM). The received bits with LLR absolute values higher than the preset threshold are demodulated by the receiver, otherwise, deleted. Through the theoretical analysis of the average mutual information (MI) of the demodulated bits, the method is obtained to calculate the LLR demodulation threshold under the required error performance after decoding and the constraint of codeword length for decoding. Then, the rate adaption scheme is applied in a parallel multiple relay wireless communication system. The LLR threshold is set according to the instantaneous SNR of the received signals in order to keep the average MI per demodulated bit of each relay link the same. The demodulated bits coming from all links are combined for decoding. The 256‐QAM constellation and Raptor code are then considered as a special case to design a sample scheme. Simulation results prove the correctness of the theoretical analysis and the feasibility of the proposed scheme, and when it is employed by a multi‐relay transmission system, the diversity gain can be obtained, and the anti‐fading and the anti‐jamming abilities of the system are promoted.