bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Time-decay Memristive Behavior and diffusive dynamics in one forget process operated by a 3D vertical Pt/Ta2O5−x/W device
Authors: Wang Qi , He Deyan
Published: April 2017

A time-decay resistive switching memory using a 3D vertical Pt/Ta2O5−x/W device architecture is demonstrated, in which horizontal W electrodes were fabricated, and vertical Pt electrodes was formed at the sidewall after oxide was deposited. Unlike conventional resistive switching, which usually form a conductive filament connect two electrodes, a weak conductive filament was formed from bottom electrode W to near top electrode Pt. The memory can be recovered with a time scale when the electrical stimulation is removed. However, different decay behaviors were observed in one decay curve, including rapid decay and slow decay processes. This can be a good simulation of different stages of forgetting. By a combination of the current decay fitting and the conductive analysis, the rapid decay and slow decay processes correspond to ion diffusion and electron detrapping, respectively.
CNT Sheet Air Electrode for the Development of Ultra-High Cell Capacity in Lithium-Air Batteries
Authors: Nomura Akihiro , Ito Kimihiko , Kubo Yoshimi
Published: April 2017

Lithium-air batteries (LABs) are expected to provide a cell with a much higher capacity than ever attained before, but their prototype cells present a limited areal cell capacity of no more than 10 mAh cm−2, mainly due to the limitation of their air electrodes. Here, we demonstrate the use of flexible carbon nanotube (CNT) sheets as a promising air electrode for developing ultra-high capacity in LAB cells, achieving areal cell capacities of up to 30 mAh cm−2, which is approximately 15 times higher than the capacity of cells with lithium-ion battery (LiB) technology (~2 mAh cm−2). During discharge, the CNT sheet electrode experienced enormous swelling to a thickness of a few millimeters because of the discharge product deposition of lithium peroxide (Li2O2), but the sheet was fully recovered after being fully charged. This behavior results from the CNT sheet characteristics of the flexible and fibrous conductive network and suggests that the CNT sheet is an effective air electrode material for developing a commercially available LAB cell with an ultra-high cell capacity.
Obesity and depressive symptoms among Chinese people aged 45 and over
Authors: Qian Jiahui , Li Ningxiu , Ren Xiaohui
Published: April 2017

We examined the controversial relationship between obesity and depression among Chinese people aged 45 and over using data from the 2013 follow-up survey of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). Depressive symptoms were measured using the CES-D 10; overweight and obesity were defined using WHO, Asian and Chinese criteria. The proportion of depressive symptoms was 19.9% and 33.2% in men and women, respectively. Depressive symptoms decreased as BMI increased in both men and women (P < 0.05). Obese women were less likely to suffer from depressive symptoms than normal weight women according to WHO, Asian and Chinese criteria (P < 0.05). Obese men were less likely to suffer from depressive symptoms than normal weight men under the Chinese criteria (P < 0.05). The results indicate that there is an inverse association between obesity and depressive symptoms among Chinese men and women, supporting the “jolly fat” hypothesis in China, and suggest that individuals and medical providers should pay attention to underweight as well as obesity. In addition, our study illustrates the importance of establishing appropriate obesity cut-off points for individual countries.
Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) prevents periprosthetic inflammatory loosening through FBXL2-TRAF6 ubiquitination pathway
Authors: Zhao Xiang , Zhao Gangsheng , Shi Zhongli , Zhou Chenhe , Chen Yunlin , Hu Bin , Yan Shigui
Published: April 2017

Previous studies have shown that Low intensity pulsed ultrasound(LIPUS) prevents polyethylene-debris-induced periprosthetic loosening in vivo, but the details of the mechanism by which it does so remain unclear. In this article, we used polyethylene debris induced RAW 264.7 cells as the in vitro model, and tested the effect of LIPUS on this model. Changes in the level of inflammatory cytokines, cell proliferation, and apoptosis were assessed. Gene overexpression and siRNA technique were applied, and the levels of expression of FBXL2, TRAF6, ERK, and related inflammatory cytokines were also measured. Results indicated that FBXL2-mediated TRAF6 ubiquitination and degradation also plays an important role in aseptic periprosthetic loosening process, and LIPUS prevents such loosening by strengthening this pathway.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Chemical inhibition reveals differential requirements of signaling pathways in krasV12- and Myc-induced liver tumors in transgenic zebrafish
Authors: Yan Chuan , Yang Qiqi , Huo Xiaojing , Li Hankun , Zhou Li , Gong Zhiyuan
Published: April 2017

Previously we have generated inducible liver tumor models by transgenic expression of an oncogene and robust tumorigenesis can be rapidly induced by activation of the oncogene in both juvenile and adult fish. In the present study, we aimed at chemical intervention of tumorigenesis for understanding molecular pathways of tumorigenesis and for potential development of a chemical screening tool for anti-cancer drug discovery. Thus, we evaluated the roles of several major signaling pathways in krasV12- or Myc-induced liver tumors by using several small molecule inhibitors: SU5402 and SU6668 for VEGF/FGF signaling; IWR1 and cardionogen 1 for Wnt signaling; and cyclopamine and Gant61 for Hedgehog signaling. Inhibition of VEGF/FGF signaling was found to deter both Myc- and krasV12-induced liver tumorigenesis while suppression of Wnt signaling relaxed only Myc- but not krasV12-induced liver tumorigenesis. Inhibiting Hedgehog signaling did not suppress either krasV12 or Myc-induced tumors. The suppression of liver tumorigenesis was accompanied with a decrease of cell proliferation, increase of apoptosis, distorted liver histology. Collectively, our observations suggested the requirement of VEGF/FGF signaling but not the hedgehog signaling in liver tumorigenesis in both transgenic fry. However, Wnt signaling appeared to be required for liver tumorigenesis only in Myc but not krasV12 transgenic zebrafish.
Elemental stoichiometry and compositions of weevil larvae and two acorn hosts under natural phosphorus variation
Authors: Ji Huawei , Du Baoming , Liu Chunjiang
Published: April 2017

To understand how different trophic organisms in a parasite food chain adapt to the differences in soil nutrient conditions, we investigated stoichiometric variation and homeostasis of multiple elements in two acorn trees, Quercus variabilis and Quercus acutissima, and their parasite weevil larvae (Curculio davidi Fairmaire) at phosphorus (P)-deficient and P-rich sites in subtropical China where P-rich ores are scattered among dominant P-deficient soils. Results showed that elemental stoichiometry and compositions of both acorns and weevil larvae differed significantly between P-deficient and P-rich sites (p < 0.05), with the largest contribution of acorn and weevil larva P in distinguishing the stoichiometric compositions between the two site types. The two acorn species were statistically separated by their acorn elemental stoichiometry and compositions (p < 0.05), but no difference was observed on weevil larvae between the two acorn species. P was one of the few elements that were non strict homeostasis in both acorns and weevil larvae. These findings highlight the importance of both environmental influence in elemental stoichiometry and composition and physiological regulations of nutritional needs in organisms and provide possible stoichiometric responses of both plants and animals to P loading, a worldwide issue from excess release of P into the environment.
Fast Collisional Lipid Transfer Among Polymer-Bounded Nanodiscs
Authors: Cuevas Arenas Rodrigo , Danielczak Bartholomäus , Martel Anne , Porcar Lionel , Breyton Cécile , Ebel Christine , Keller Sandro
Published: April 2017

Some styrene/maleic acid (SMA) copolymers solubilise membrane lipids and proteins to form polymer-bounded nanodiscs termed SMA/lipid particles (SMALPs). Although SMALPs preserve a lipid-bilayer core, they appear to be more dynamic than other membrane mimics. We used time-resolved Förster resonance energy transfer and small-angle neutron scattering to determine the kinetics and the mechanisms of phospholipid transfer among SMALPs. In contrast with vesicles or protein-bounded nanodiscs, SMALPs exchange lipids not only by monomer diffusion but also by fast collisional transfer. Under typical experimental conditions, lipid exchange occurs within seconds in the case of SMALPs but takes minutes to days in the other bilayer particles. The diffusional and second-order collisional exchange rate constants for SMALPs at 30 °C are kdif = 0.287 s−1 and kcol = 222 M−1s−1, respectively. Together with the fast kinetics, the observed invariability of the rate constants with probe hydrophobicity and the moderate activation enthalpy of ~70 kJ mol−1 imply that lipids exchange through a “hydrocarbon continuum” enabled by the flexible nature of the SMA belt surrounding the lipid-bilayer core. Owing to their fast lipid-exchange kinetics, SMALPs represent highly dynamic equilibrium rather than kinetically trapped membrane mimics, which has important implications for studying protein/lipid interactions in polymer-bounded nanodiscs.
Experimental and theoretical studies of nonlinear dependence of the internal resistance and electrode thickness for high performance supercapacitor
Authors: Liu Xilong , Dai Xiaohang , Wei Guodong , Xi Yunlong , Pang Mingjun , Izotov Volodymyr , Klyui Nickolai , Havrykov Dmytro , Ji Yuan , Guo Qing , Han Wei
Published: April 2017

In this study, the internal resistance with the increasing of electrode thickness in a typical nanoporous carbon-based supercapacitor and their corresponding electrochemical performances were designed and investigated in detail. As for the carbon-based double electrode layer electrochemical system, electrochemical experiments greatly support the fact of nonlinear dependence and indicate that the curve of internal resistance vs. electrode thickness can have a minimum value when the thickness increasing from 10 to 140 μm. To explain the underlying mechanisms responsible for the nonlinear dependence, a theoretical model based on a porous electrode/electrolyte electrochemical system was proposed. As expected, the results of calculations carried out in the framework of the proposed model can be very good agreement with the experimental data. According to the calculation, the optimized electrode thickness is 53.1 μm corresponding to the minimum value of SC internal resistance. Obviously, the current research results might greatly support the nonlinear conclusion instead of linear relationship between the internal resistance and the electrode thickness and may shed some light on the fabrication and exploration of supercapacitors with high power density.
A Microfluidic Immunostaining System Enables Quality Assured and Standardized Immunohistochemical Biomarker Analysis
Authors: Kwon Seyong , Cho Chang Hyun , Kwon Youngmee , Lee Eun Sook , Park Je-Kyun
Published: April 2017

Immunohistochemistry (IHC) plays an important role in biomarker-driven cancer therapy. Although there has been a high demand for standardized and quality assured IHC, it has rarely been achieved due to the complexity of IHC testing and the subjective validation-based process flow of IHC quality control. We present here a microfluidic immunostaining system for the standardization of IHC by creating a microfluidic linearly graded antibody (Ab)-staining device and a reference cell microarray. Unlike conventional efforts, our system deals primarily with the screening of biomarker staining conditions for quantitative quality assurance testing in IHC. We characterized the microfluidic matching of Ab staining intensity using three HER2 Abs produced by different manufacturers. The quality of HER2 Ab was also validated using tissues of breast cancer patients, demonstrating that our system is an efficient and powerful tool for the standardization and quality assurance of IHC.
SERS spectral study of HAuCl4-cysteine nanocatalytic reaction and its application for detection of heparin sodium with label-free VB4r molecular probe
Authors: Wang Xiaoliang , Jiang Caina , Qin Yanna , Peng Yutao , Wen Guiqing , Liang Aihui , Jiang Zhiliang
Published: April 2017

In the presence of nanocatalyst, L-cysteine reduce HAuCl4 rapidly to form gold nanoparticles (AuNP), and a quick nanocatalytic preparation procedure was established for Au/AuNP sol with highly active surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) effect and good stability. The nanoreaction was also studied by absorption, resonance Rayleigh scattering (RRS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and energy spectra. In the selected conditions, the analyte heparin sodium (HS) could react with victoria blue 4 R (VB4r) to form associated complexes which have very weak SERS effect to make the SERS signals decrease. The SERS signals at 1617 cm−1 reduced linearly with HS concentration increasing. Upon addition of FeCl3, it hydrolyzed to form stable Fe(OH)3 sol platform that carried SERS active Au/AuNPs to enhance the sensitivity. Accordingly, we established a SERS quantitative analysis method in the sol substrate of Fe(OH)3-Au/AuNPs, with a linear range of 0.5–75 ng/mL HS and a detection limit of 0.2 ng/mL. HS in real samples was determined, with a relative standard deviation of 2.65–7.63% and a recovery of 99.3–101%.
Inhibition of Pyruvate Kinase M2 Markedly Reduces Chemoresistance of Advanced Bladder Cancer to Cisplatin
Authors: Wang Xing , Zhang Fenglin , Wu Xue-Ru
Published: April 2017

Chemoresistance to cisplatin is a principal cause of treatment failure and mortality of advanced bladder cancer (BC). The underlying mechanisms remain unclear, which hinders the development of preventive strategies. Recent data indicate that pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2), a glycolytic enzyme for Warburg effect, is strongly upregulated in BC. This study explores the role of PKM2 in chemoresistance and whether inhibiting PKM2 augments the chemosensitivity to cisplatin and reduces BC growth and progression. We found that Shikonin binds PKM2 and inhibits BC cell survival in a dose-dependent but pyruvate kinase activity-independent manner. Down-regulation of PKM2 by shRNA blunts cellular responses to shikonin but enhances the responses to cisplatin. Shikonin and cisplatin together exhibit significantly greater inhibition of proliferation and apoptosis than when used alone. Induced cisplatin-resistance is strongly associated with PKM2 overexpression, and cisplatin-resistant cells respond sensitively to shikonin. In syngeneic mice, shikonin and cisplatin together, but not as single-agents, markedly reduces BC growth and metastasis. Based on these data, we conclude that PKM2 overexpression is a key mechanism of chemoresistance of advanced BC to cisplatin. Inhibition of PKM2 via RNAi or chemical inhibitors may be a highly effective approach to overcome chemoresistance and improve the outcome of advanced BC.
Activation of perineuronal net-expressing excitatory neurons during associative memory encoding and retrieval
Authors: Morikawa Shota , Ikegaya Yuji , Narita Minoru , Tamura Hideki
Published: April 2017

Perineuronal nets (PNNs), proteoglycan-rich extracellular matrix structures, are thought to be expressed around inhibitory neurons and contribute to critical periods of brain function and synaptic plasticity. However, in some specific brain regions such as the amygdala, PNNs were predominantly expressed around excitatory neurons. These neurons were recruited during auditory fear conditioning and memory retrieval. Indeed, the activation of PNN-expressing excitatory neurons predicted cognitive performance.
Antioxidant efficacy and the upregulation of Nrf2-mediated HO-1 expression by (+)-lariciresinol, a lignan isolated from Rubia philippinensis, through the activation of p38
Authors: Bajpai Vivek K. , Alam Md Badrul , Quan Khong Trong , Kwon Kyoo-Ri , Ju Mi-Kyoung , Choi Hee-Jeong , Lee Jong Sung , Yoon Jung-In , Majumder Rajib , Rather Irfan A. , Kim Kangmin , Lee Sang-Han , Na MinKyun
Published: April 2017

The aim of the present study was to examine the antioxidative activity of (+)-lariciresinol (LRSL), an optically active lignan isolated from Rubia philippinensis in several in vitro assays. LRSL was also subjected to evaluate its inhibitory effect against the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in murine macrophage (RAW 264.7) cells. The results showed that LRSL possessed very strong radical scavenging activity and reducing power, as well as inhibited ROS generation in a dose-dependent manner without showing any cytotoxicity. The transcriptional and translational levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and catalase (CAT) were markedly higher in the sample treated group. LRSL treatment also increased the transcriptional and translational activities of NF-E2-related factor-2 (Nrf-2) with a corresponding increase in the transcriptional and translational activities of the heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). LRSL activated p38 and treatments with SB239063 (a p38 inhibitor) suppressed the LRSL-induced activation of Nrf2, resulting in a decrease in HO-1 expression. Collectively, the data demonstrated that LRSL has potent antioxidative activity, decreasing ROS generation in RAW 264.7 cells and increasing the transcriptional and translational levels of antioxidant enzymes by activating Nrf2-mediated HO-1 induction via p38 signaling.
Correction: Corrigendum: Synergistic effects of dissolved organic carbon and inorganic nitrogen on methane uptake in forest soils without and with freezing treatment
Authors: Wu Haohao , Xu Xingkai , Duan Cuntao , Li Tuansheng , Cheng Weiguo
Published: April 2017

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 32555; published online: 30 August 2016; updated: 05 April 2017 This Article contains errors in Table 7, where incorrect values for ‘Total C’ and ‘Total N’ are given. The correct Table 7 appears below as Table 1.
Magnetic (chitosan/laponite)-immobilized copper(ii) ions: an efficient heterogeneous catalyst for azide–alkyne cycloaddition
Authors: Mahdavinia Gholam Reza , Soleymani Moslem , Nikkhoo Mohammad , Farnia Sayed Morteza F. , Amini Mojtaba
Published: April 2017

Under a green protocol and using Cu2+-loaded magnetic chitosan/laponite catalytic system, CuAAC reactions were successfully performed to obtain 1,4-disubstituted-1,2,3-triazoles in good to excellent yields.
Highly active Fe3BO6 as an anode material for sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Tian Jianliya , Wang Baofeng , Zhao Fei , Ma Xiao , Liu Yong , Liu Hua Kun , Huang Zhenguo
Published: April 2017

An efficient Fe3BO6 anode with high capacity and excellent rate capability is studied, for the first time, for sodium-ion batteries.
Ordered assembly of hybrid room-temperature phosphorescence thin films showing polarized emission and the sensing of VOCs
Authors: Gao Rui , Yan Dongpeng
Published: April 2017

Long-lived room-temperature phosphorescence (RTP) thin films through a layer-by-layer (LBL) process present polarized RTP and serve as sensors for VOCs.
The nanostructure of a lithium glyme solvate ionic liquid at electrified interfaces
Authors: Coles Samuel W. , Mishin Maksim , Perkin Susan , Fedorov Maxim V. , Ivaništšev Vladislav B.
Published: April 2017

Lithium glymes adopt a distinct nanostructure at the negative electrode, unlike that observed with conventional ionic liquids.
Anion transport and supramolecular medicinal chemistry
Authors: Gale Philip A. , Davis Jeffery T. , Quesada Roberto
Published: April 2017

New approaches to the transmembrane transport of anions are discussed in this review.
Selective hydrosilylation of alkynes and ketones: contrasting reactivity between cationic 3-iminophosphine palladium and nickel complexes
Authors: Tafazolian Hosein , Yoxtheimer Robert , Thakuri Rajendr S. , Schmidt Joseph A. R.
Published: April 2017

New palladium(allyl) complexes proved effective for the hydrosilylation of electron-deficient alkynes, while nickel analogues excelled with ketones and internal alkynes.
Self-template synthesis of CdS/NiSx heterostructured nanohybrids for efficient photocatalytic hydrogen evolution
Authors: Xu You , Tu Wenguang , Yin Shengming , Kraft Markus , Zhang Qichun , Xu Rong
Published: April 2017

A heterostructured nanohybrid photocatalyst composed of ultrasmall CdS and NiSx nanoparticles has been prepared by a self-template synthetic strategy.
A synthetic biology approach to engineering living photovoltaics
Authors: Schuergers N. , Werlang C. , Ajo-Franklin C. M. , Boghossian A. A.
Published: April 2017

Engineering extracellular electron transfer pathways in cyanobacteria for biophotovoltaic applications.
Heterogeneous catalysts for the cyclization of dicarboxylic acids to cyclic anhydrides as monomers for bioplastic production
Authors: Rashed Md. N. , Siddiki S. M. A. H. , Ali Md. A. , Moromi Sondomoyee K. , Touchy Abeda S. , Kon Kenichi , Toyao Takashi , Shimizu Ken-ichi
Published: April 2017

Niobic acid catalyzes the condensation of biomass-derived dicarboxylic acids into cyclic anhydrides, key intermediates of carbon-neutral and biodegradable polyesters.
Parametric evaluation of ambient desorption optical emission spectroscopy utilizing a liquid sampling-atmospheric pressure glow discharge microplasma
Authors: Paing Htoo W. , Marcus R. Kenneth
Published: April 2017

The operational parameters of the AD-LS-APGD-OES microplasma have been evaluated in terms of understanding their roles in analyte response.
Hybrid[4]arenes with anthracene units and tuneable cavities
Authors: Boinski Tomasz , Szumna Agnieszka
Published: April 2017

Acid catalyzed condensation between tetramethoxyanthracenes and formaldehyde in the presence of additional benzene-based building blocks leads to hybrid macrocyclic products that are further modified by the Diels–Alder reaction with benzyne to obtain macrocycles with expanded cavities.
Synthesis of 2,3-dihydro-1H-pyrroles by intramolecular cyclization of N-(3-butynyl)-sulfonamides
Authors: Chung Min-Ching , Chan Yung-Hsiang , Chang Wen-Jung , Hou Duen-Ren
Published: April 2017

Hydroamination of 3-butynamine derivatives to give non-aromatic 2,3-dihydropyrroles was achieved by using PdCl2 or AuCl as the catalyst.
Synthesis of fused cyanopyrroles and spirocyclopropanes via addition of N-ylides to chalconimines
Authors: Midya Siba Prasad , Gopi Elumalai , Satam Nishikant , Namboothiri Irishi N. N.
Published: April 2017

DABCO-ylides react as a one-carbon source with chalconimines to afford fused cyanopyrrolesvia[4 + 1] annulation and spirocyclopropanesvia[2 + 1] annulation.
Synthesis and biological evaluation of fentanyl acrylic derivatives
Authors: Li Shaohua , Cohen-Karni Devora , Kovaliov Marina , Tomycz Nestor , Cheng Boyle , Whiting Donald , Averick Saadyah
Published: April 2017

Synthesis and biological evaluation of fentanyl acrylic derivatives.
Polymer brush decorated nanoparticles immobilised on polymer monoliths for enhanced biopolymer elution
Authors: Iacono M. , Connolly D. , Heise A.
Published: April 2017

Polymer monoliths uniformly covered with polymer brush nanoparticles are fabricated and the elution properties investigated with myoglobin and blue dextran.
Light activated non-reciprocal motion in liquid crystalline networks by designed microactuator architecture
Authors: Martella D. , Antonioli D. , Nocentini S. , Wiersma D. S. , Galli G. , Laus M. , Parmeggiani C.
Published: April 2017

The cross-linking density controls light induced deformation dynamics in liquid crystalline networks. A double stripe system featuring different crosslinking densities affords non reciprocal and asymmetric millisecond movements at the microscale.
Evaluierung der postoperativen Astigmatismuskorrektur und der postoperativen Rotationsstabilität zweier torischer Intraokularlinsen
Authors: Grohlich M. , Miháltz K. , Lasta M. , Weingessel B. , Vécsei-Marlovits V.
Published: April 2017

Hintergrund Im Rahmen dieser retrospektiven Studie wurden 2 verschiedene torische Intraokularlinsen auf Rotationsstabilität und das refraktive Ergebnis miteinander verglichen.

Methoden Es handelt sich um eine Analyse von 41 Patientenaugen, die an der Augenabteilung im Krankenhaus Hietzing in den Jahren 2010 bis 2013 operiert wurden. Der korneale Astigmatismus lag über 1,5 Dioptrien (dpt). Bei den implantierten Linsen handelte es sich um die Alcon AcrySof IQ Toric IOL und die Abbott Tecnis Toric Aspheric IOL. Die Ermittlung der Topografie und die Messung der Aberrationen erfolgten mit dem HOYA iTrace™. Die Visusbestimmung erfolgte mit ETDRS-Tafeln. Die gemessenen Abbildungsfehler des untersuchten Auges wurden mit Zernike-Koeffizienten dargestellt.

Ergebnisse Die Rotation in der Alcon-Gruppe war 4,92 ± 4,10° (MW ± SD), in der Abbott-Gruppe 4,31 ± 4,59°. Es zeigte sich hierbei kein signifikanter Unterschied zwischen den beiden torischen Intraokularlinsen, die Rotationsstabilität ist mit anderen Studien vergleichbar. Die refraktive Astigmatismuskorrektur wurde mittels einer Power-Vektoren-Analyse veranschaulicht und zeigte ähnliche Ergebnisse mit eindeutigem Erfolg der Astigmatismuskorrektur. Bei der Alcon IOL zeigte sich ein Restastigmatismus von 0,85 ± 0,48 dpt, bei der Abbott Tecnis IOL war er 1,09 ± 0,66. Der Unterschied ist nicht signifikant. Bei den Abbildungsfehlern (Strehl-Zahl) zeigte sich im Vergleich kein signifikanter Unterschied.

Schlussfolgerung Die Implantation einer torischen Intraokularlinse ist mittlerweile bei regulärem Astigmatismus ein sinnvolles Angebot, das dem Patienten nicht vorenthalten werden sollte. Es zeigte sich hierbei kein signifikanter Unterschied zwischen den beiden torischen Intraokularlinsen.
Paraproteinämische Keratopathie als klinisches Zeichen einer monoklonalen Gammopathie
Authors: Wasielica-Poslednik J. , Gericke A. , Pfeiffer N. , Lisch W.
Published: April 2017

Patienten mit monoklonaler Gammopathie können eine behandlungsbedürftige paraproteinämische Keratopathie (PPK) aufweisen. Die PPK muss gegenüber verschiedenen Formen von Hornhautdystrophie, einzelnen systemischen Stoffwechselstörungen mit Hornhautbeteiligung sowie gegenüber immunologischen und inflammatorischen Hornhauterkrankungen abgegrenzt werden.
Proof of the WARM whisker conjecture for neuronal connections
Authors: Holmes Mark , Kleptsyn Victor
Published: April 2017

This paper is devoted to the study of the so-called WARM reinforcement models that are generalisations of Pólya's urn. We show that in the graph setting, once the exponent α of the reinforcement function is greater than 2, the stable and critical equilibria can be supported only on spanning forests, and once α>25, on spanning whisker forests. Thus, we prove the whisker forests conjecture from Hofstad et al. [Ann. Appl. Probab. 26(4), 2494–2539 (2016)].
Pseudo-orbit approach to trajectories of resonances in quantum graphs with general vertex coupling: Fermi rule and high-energy asymptotics
Authors: Exner Pavel , Lipovský Jiří
Published: April 2017

The aim of the paper is to investigate resonances in quantum graphs with a general self-adjoint coupling in the vertices and their trajectories with respect to varying edge lengths. We derive formulae determining the Taylor expansion of the resonance pole position up to the second order, which represent, in particular, a counterpart to the Fermi rule derived recently by Lee and Zworski for graphs with the standard coupling. Furthermore, we discuss the asymptotic behavior of the resonances in the high-energy regime in the situation where the leads are attached through δ or δs′ conditions, and we prove that in the case of δs′ coupling the resonances approach to the real axis with the increasing real parts as O((Rek)−2).
Efficient algorithms for solving the non-linear vibrational coupled-cluster equations using full and decomposed tensors
Authors: Madsen Niels K. , Godtliebsen Ian H. , Christiansen Ove
Published: April 2017

Vibrational coupled-cluster (VCC) theory provides an accurate method for calculating vibrational spectra and properties of small to medium-sized molecules. Obtaining these properties requires the solution of the non-linear VCC equations which can in some cases be hard to converge depending on the molecule, the basis set, and the vibrational state in question. We present and compare a range of different algorithms for solving the VCC equations ranging from a full Newton-Raphson method to approximate quasi-Newton models using an array of different convergence-acceleration schemes. The convergence properties and computational cost of the algorithms are compared for the optimization of VCC states. This includes both simple ground-state problems and difficult excited states with strong non-linearities. Furthermore, the effects of using tensor-decomposed solution vectors and residuals are investigated and discussed. The results show that for standard ground-state calculations, the conjugate residual with optimal trial vectors algorithm has the shortest time-to-solution although the full Newton-Raphson method converges in fewer macro-iterations. Using decomposed tensors does not affect the observed convergence rates in our test calculations as long as the tensors are decomposed to sufficient accuracy.
Modular topology emerges from plasticity in a minimalistic excitable network model
Authors: Damicelli Fabrizio , Hilgetag Claus C. , Hütt Marc-Thorsten , Messé Arnaud
Published: April 2017

Topological features play a major role in the emergence of complex brain network dynamics underlying brain function. Specific topological properties of brain networks, such as their modular organization, have been widely studied in recent years and shown to be ubiquitous across spatial scales and species. However, the mechanisms underlying the generation and maintenance of such features are still unclear. Using a minimalistic network model with excitable nodes and discrete deterministic dynamics, we studied the effects of a local Hebbian plasticity rule on global network topology. We found that, despite the simple model set-up, the plasticity rule was able to reorganize the global network topology into a modular structure. The structural reorganization was accompanied by enhanced correlations between structural and functional connectivity, and the final network organization reflected features of the dynamical model. These findings demonstrate the potential of simple plasticity rules for structuring the topology of brain connectivity.
Measurement of the in-plane thermal conductivity by steady-state infrared thermography
Authors: Greppmair Anton , Stoib Benedikt , Saxena Nitin , Gerstberger Caroline , Müller-Buschbaum Peter , Stutzmann Martin , Brandt Martin S.
Published: April 2017

We demonstrate a simple and quick method for the measurement of the in-plane thermal conductance of thin films via steady-state IR thermography. The films are suspended above a hole in an opaque substrate and heated by a homogeneous visible light source. The temperature distribution of the thin films is captured via infrared microscopy and fitted to the analytical expression obtained for the specific hole geometry in order to obtain the in-plane thermal conductivity. For thin films of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):polystyrene sulfonate post-treated with ethylene glycol and of polyimide, we find conductivities of 1.0 W m−1 K−1 and 0.4 W m−1 K−1 at room temperature, respectively. These results are in very good agreement with literature values, validating the method developed.
Reservoir observers: Model-free inference of unmeasured variables in chaotic systems
Authors: Lu Zhixin , Pathak Jaideep , Hunt Brian , Girvan Michelle , Brockett Roger , Ott Edward
Published: April 2017

Deducing the state of a dynamical system as a function of time from a limited number of concurrent system state measurements is an important problem of great practical utility. A scheme that accomplishes this is called an “observer.” We consider the case in which a model of the system is unavailable or insufficiently accurate, but “training” time series data of the desired state variables are available for a short period of time, and a limited number of other system variables are continually measured. We propose a solution to this problem using networks of neuron-like units known as “reservoir computers.” The measurements that are continually available are input to the network, which is trained with the limited-time data to output estimates of the desired state variables. We demonstrate our method, which we call a “reservoir observer,” using the Rössler system, the Lorenz system, and the spatiotemporally chaotic Kuramoto–Sivashinsky equation. Subject to the condition of observability (i.e., whether it is in principle possible, by any means, to infer the desired unmeasured variables from the measured variables), we show that the reservoir observer can be a very effective and versatile tool for robustly reconstructing unmeasured dynamical system variables.
Temperature evolution of magnetic structure of HoFeO3 by single crystal neutron diffraction
Authors: Chatterji T. , Meven M. , Brown P. J.
Published: April 2017

We have investigated the temperature evolution of the magnetic structures of HoFeO3 by single crystal neutron diffraction. The three different magnetic structures werevfound as a function of temperature for HoFeO3. In all three phases the fundamental coupling between the Fe sub-lattices remains the same and only their orientation and the degree of canting away from the ideal axial direction varies. The magnetic polarisation of the Ho sub-lattices in these two higher temperature regions, in which the major components of the Fe moment lie along x and y, is very small. The canting of the moments from the axial directions is attributed to the antisymmetric interactions allowed by the crystal symmetry. In the low temperature phase two further structural transitions are apparent in which the spontaneous magnetisation changes sign with respect to the underlying antiferromagnetic configuration. In this temperature range the antisymmetric exchange energy varies rapidly as the the Ho sub-lattices begin to order. So long as the ordered Ho moments are small the antisymmetric exchange is due only to Fe-Fe interactions, but as the degree of Ho order increases the Fe-Ho interactions take over whilst at the lowest temperatures, when the Ho moments approach saturation the Ho-Ho interactions dominate. The reversals of the spontaneous magnetisation found in this study suggest that in HoFeO3 the sums of the Fe-Fe and Ho-Ho antisymmetric interactions have the same sign as one another, but that of the Ho-Fe terms is opposite.
Role of oxidant–antioxidant balance in reproduction of domestic animals
Authors: Talukder Saranika , Kerrisk Kendra L. , Gabai Gianfranco , Celi Pietro
Published: April 2017

Reproductive process leads to dynamic changes in metabolism and energy consumption, which may be responsible for the excessive production of free radicals (oxidants) that are generated during the physiological process of oxygen consumption. As the ovary is a metabolically active organ, it produces oxidants. Growing follicles, granulose cells of Graffian follicles and ovulated follicles all produce both enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants to preserve themselves from the oxidative damage of oxidants. Oxidants and antioxidants are involved in several reproductive functions such as the regulation of follicular fluid environment, folliculogenesis, steroidogenesis, corpus luteum function, and luteolysis. In this article, the currently available literature is reviewed in relation to the roles of oxidants and oxidative stress in both normal and abnormal reproductive physiological processes.
Research culture in a regional allied health setting
Authors: Borkowski Donna , McKinstry Carol , Cotchett Matthew
Published: April 2017

Research evidence is required to guide best practice, inform policy and improve the health of communities. Current indicators consider allied health research culture to be low. This study aimed to measure the allied health research culture and capacity in a Victorian regional health service. The Research Capacity and Culture tool was used to evaluate research capacity and culture across individual, team and organisation domains. One-way ANOVA was used to determine differences between allied health professions, whereas responses to open-ended questions were themed using open coding. One hundred thirty-six allied health professionals completed the survey. There were statistically significant differences in the organisation domain between social work, physiotherapy and occupational therapy professions; in the team domain, between social work and all other professions. Motivators for conducting research included providing a high-quality service, developing skills and increasing job satisfaction. Barriers included other work roles taking priority, a lack of time and limited research skills. Multi-layered strategies including establishing conjoint research positions are recommended to increase allied health research culture in this regional area.
Hydration-reduced lattice thermal conductivity of olivine in Earth’s upper mantle
Authors: Chang Yun-Yuan , Hsieh Wen-Pin , Tan Eh , Chen Jiuhua
Published: April 2017

Significance

Thermal conductivity of mantle minerals is critical for controlling the temperature profile and dynamics of the mantle and subducting slabs. However, the effect of hydration on lattice thermal conductivity remains poorly understood. We studied lattice thermal conductivity of olivine (Mg
0.9
Fe
0.1
)
2
SiO
4
(Fo90) to 15 GPa using ultrafast optics. The thermal conductivity of hydrous Fo90 with ∼7,000 wt ppm water is 2 times smaller than its anhydrous counterpart at transition zone pressures. Modeling thermal structure of a subducting slab shows that the hydration-reduced thermal conductivity in the oceanic crust further decreases the temperature within the subducting slab, which substantially lowers the olivine−wadsleyite transformation rate and extends the metastable olivine to greater depths. Such an effect could enhance water transportation to the transition zone.
A Dynamic Flow Regime Supports an Intact Great Plains Stream Fish Assemblage
Authors: Bestgen Kevin R. , Wilcox Cameron T. , Hill Angela A. , Fausch Kurt D.
Published: April 2017

Intact native fish assemblages—those with all or most historical taxa present and a strong numerical dominance of native species—are rare in streams and other aquatic systems worldwide. Our sampling during four intervals from 1983 to 2007 showed that the Purgatoire River, a Great Plains stream in eastern Colorado, supported an assemblage that was 99.6% native taxa, and all but one rare species persisted through time. An additional rare Arkansas River native fish colonized the Purgatoire River and was widespread in 2006–2007, and only three nonnative taxa were detected. The perennial Purgatoire River supported all native fishes in the basin, while tributaries supported mainly native fishes that were tolerant of intermittent, harsh habitat. In the Purgatoire River, frequency and abundance of dominant species varied spatially during 2006–2007. Persistence of native fishes was unchanged over time in the Piñon Canyon reach of the river even though abundance varied substantially. Despite the presence of upstream Trinidad Reservoir, which reduced flood peak magnitude and frequency and increased base flows, the flow regime of the river remained flashy, with high, turbid, and unpredictable flood flows. Peak flows resulted from thunderstorms in tributaries of the Purgatoire River downstream from the reservoir or from snowmelt runoff and usually occurred in August or July but also were observed in May and June. We attribute persistence of the native fish assemblage to sustained base flows and, more importantly, to the continued (albeit lower) magnitude and frequency of peak flows and otherwise harsh habitat, which limit invasion by nonnative fishes from upstream and downstream reservoirs. Persistence of the intact native fish assemblage in the Purgatoire River requires maintenance of the dynamic flow regime and prevention of invasions by nonnative fishes, including riverine‐adapted centrarchids like Smallmouth Bass Micropterus dolomieu. Conservation of the Purgatoire River basin should be a priority for ecologists and managers alike given its value as a study system and as habitat for rare fishes.

Received July 18, 2016; accepted March 20, 2017 Published online July 11, 2017
Properties of composite oxide layers on the Ti13Nb13Zr alloy
Authors: Ossowska Agnieszka , Beutner Rene , Scharnweber Dieter , Zielinski Andrzej
Published: April 2017

The development of composite oxide layers on the Ti13Nb13Zr alloy, their structure and properties, were demonstrated. Two subsequent methods were applied to prepare the composite layers. During the first stage, gas oxidation produced a dense compact oxide layer, and subsequent oxide nanotubes were formed applied an electrochemical oxidation. The scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy were used to examine the appearance, thickness, chemical and phase composition of the oxide layers. The results obtained revealed that the composite layers composed of two zones. The electrochemical formation of the outer nanotubular oxide zone occurred if the thickness of the first inner oxide zone was small enough because of resistance increasing with the inner zone thickness followed by a decrease in electrochemical reaction rate. The decreasing corrosion resistance of the Ti13Nb13Zr alloy was observed and explained by a model electric circuit.
Fish Passage Through Three Types of Structures in Diked Coastal Lake Erie Wetlands
Authors: Steinhart Geoffrey B. , Bode Sierra , Thieme Jennifer , Winslow Christopher J.
Published: April 2017

Over 40% of Great Lakes fishes are wetland dependent, and more than 70% benefit from wetlands periodically. As such, restoration and rehabilitation of Great Lakes coastal wetlands have increased dramatically. This necessitates a balance among varied management objectives, including fish passage. The presence of water control structures commonly found on diked wetlands can limit fish passage if not open all the time. We sampled three diked Lake Erie coastal wetlands to assess how different structures affected fish passage. Water control structures included a pool-and-weir fish ladder, swing gates, and an open culvert. Fyke nets were set five to seven times at each site between April and October 2015. One net was set outside of the wetland, a short distance away from the passage structure, and the other was set inside the wetland, with the net wings enclosing the opening of the structure. Catches were compared for catch rate, three measures of community similarity, and the wetland fish index (WFI). Fish communities on either side of the fish ladder site had low community similarities that were lower than those of the culvert site and similar to those of the swing gate site, suggesting that the fish ladder did not provide fish passage as hoped. Of the three wetlands, catches from inside the wetland with the culvert had a WFI that was most similar to those of wetlands connected to Lake Erie hydrology. Overall, the culvert provided the most opportunity for fish movement into the wetland. However, unlike the other structures, it did not provide a means for precisely managing wetland water levels.

Received September 30, 3016; accepted January 25, 2017 Published online April 4, 2017
Prospects and limitations of antibody‐mediated clearing of lipoproteins from blood plasma prior to nanoparticle tracking analysis of extracellular vesicles
Authors: Mørk Morten , Handberg Aase , Pedersen Shona , Jørgensen Malene M. , Bæk Rikke , Nielsen Morten K. , Kristensen Søren R.
Published: April 2017

Introduction: Nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) enables measurement of extracellular vesicles (EVs) but lacks the ability to distinct between EVs and lipoproteins which are abundantly present in blood plasma. Limitations in ultracentrifugation and size exclusion chromatography applied for EV isolation may result in inadequate EV purification and preservation. In this proof of concept study, we aimed to evaluate the potential of antibody‐mediated removal of lipoproteins from plasma prior to extracellular vesicle (EV) analysis by nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA).

Methods: Ten platelet‐free plasma (PFP) samples from healthy fasting subjects were incubated with magnetic beads coated with antibodies against apolipoprotein B‐48 and B‐100 (ApoB). Plasma samples were analysed with NTA before and after application of the bead procedure. Four fasting PFP samples were analysed with an ELISA specific for human ApoB to estimate the degree of removal of lipoproteins and EV array analysis was used for identification of possible EV loss.

Results: The magnetic bead separation procedure resulted in a median reduction of the particle concentration in plasma by 62% (interquartile range 32–72%). The mean size of the remaining particles generally increased. ApoB concentration was reduced to a level close to the background signal, whereas a median reduction of the EV content by 21% (range 8–43%) was observed.

Conclusion: Anti‐ApoB antibody coated magnetic beads may hold potential for removal of lipoproteins from human PFP prior to EV measurement by NTA but some artefactual effect and EV loss may have to be endured.
Minimization of Food Cost on 2000-Calorie Diabetic Diet
Authors: Urrutia J D , Mercado J , Tampis R L
Published: April 2017

This study focuses on minimization of food cost that satisfies the daily nutrients required based on 2000-calorie diet for a diabetic person. This paper attempts to provide a food combination that satisfies the daily nutrient requirements of a diabetic person and its lowest possible dietary food cost. A linear programming diet model is used to determine the cheapest combination of food items that satisfy the recommended daily nutritional requirements of the diabetic persons. According to the findings, a 50 year old and above diabetic male need to spend a minimum of 72.22 pesos for foods that satisfy the daily nutrients they need. In order to attain the minimum spending, the foods must consist of 60.49 grams of anchovy, 91.24 grams of carrot, 121.92 grams of durian, 121.41 grams of chicken egg, 70.82 grams of pork (lean), and 369.70 grams of rice (well-milled). For a 50 year old and above diabetic female, the minimum spending is 64.65 pesos per day and the food must consist of 75.87 grams of anchovy, 43.38 grams of carrot, 160.46 grams of durian, 69.66 grams of chicken egg, 23.16 grams of pork (lean) and 416.19 grams of rice (well-milled).
Dye adsorption into transition metal-doped zinc oxide nanoparticles supported on natural zeolites to solve wastewater issue
Authors: Pratiwi Margaretha Indra , Afifah Nur , Saleh Rosari
Published: April 2017

In this work, Fe-doped zinc oxide/natural zeolite (Fe:ZnO/NZ) nanocomposites were prepared using the co-precipitation method with various NZ amounts. The nanocomposites were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area analysis and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The nanocomposites were used to remove methylene blue (MB) dye from an aqueous solution. The effect of various NZ amounts and initial MB concentration were tested. The Pseudo-first-order and pseudo-second-order kinetic models were used to explain the adsorption mechanism. The Langmuir and the Freundlich isotherm models were used to fit the adsorption isotherms of the nanocomposites.