bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The actual electronic band structure of a rubrene single crystal
Authors: Nitta Jun , Miwa Kazumoto , Komiya Naoki , Annese Emilia , Fujii Jun , Ono Shimpei , Sakamoto Kazuyuki
Published: July 2019

A proper understanding on the charge mobility in organic materials is one of the key factors to realize highly functionalized organic semiconductor devices. So far, however, although a number of studies have proposed the carrier transport mechanism of rubrene single crystal to be band-like, there are disagreements between the results reported in these papers. Here, we show that the actual dispersion widths of the electronic bands formed by the highest occupied molecular orbital are much smaller than those reported in the literature, and that the disagreements originate from the diffraction effect of photoelectron and the vibrations of molecules. The present result indicates that the electronic bands would not be the main channel for hole mobility in case of rubrene single crystal and the necessity to consider a more complex picture like molecular vibrations mediated carrier transport. These findings open an avenue for a thorough insight on how to realize organic semiconductor devices with high carrier mobility.
Micro-computed tomography imaging reveals the development of a unique tooth mineralization pattern in mackerel sharks (Chondrichthyes; Lamniformes) in deep time
Authors: Jambura Patrick L. , Kindlimann René , López-Romero Faviel , Marramà Giuseppe , Pfaff Cathrin , Stumpf Sebastian , Türtscher Julia , Underwood Charlie J. , Ward David J. , Kriwet Jürgen
Published: July 2019

The cartilaginous fishes (Chondrichthyes) have a rich fossil record which consists mostly of isolated teeth and, therefore, phylogenetic relationships of extinct taxa are mainly resolved based on dental characters. One character, the tooth histology, has been examined since the 19thcentury, but its implications on the phylogeny of Chondrichthyes is still in debate. We used high resolution micro-CT images and tooth sections of 11 recent and seven extinct lamniform sharks to examine the tooth mineralization processes in this group. Our data showed similarities between lamniform sharks and other taxa (a dentinal core of osteodentine instead of a hollow pulp cavity), but also one feature that has not been known from any other elasmobranch fish: the absence of orthodentine. Our results suggest that this character resembles a synapomorphic condition for lamniform sharks, with the basking shark,Cetorhinus maximus, representing the only exception and reverted to the plesiomorphic tooth histotype. Additionally, †Palaeocarcharias stromeri, whose affiliation still is debated, shares the same tooth histology only known from lamniform sharks. This suggests that †Palaeocarcharias stromeriis member of the order Lamniformes, contradicting recent interpretations and thus, dating the origin of this group back at least into the Middle Jurassic.
Mechanical shear controls bacterial penetration in mucus
Authors: Figueroa-Morales Nuris , Dominguez-Rubio Leonardo , Ott Troy L. , Aranson Igor S.
Published: July 2019

Mucus plays crucial roles in higher organisms, from aiding fertilization to protecting the female reproductive tract. Here, we investigate how anisotropic organization of mucus affects bacterial motility. We demonstrate by cryo electron micrographs and elongated tracer particles imaging, that mucus anisotropy and heterogeneity depend on how mechanical stress is applied. In shallow mucus films, we observe bacteria reversing their swimming direction without U-turns. During the forward motion, bacteria burrowed tunnels that last for several seconds and enable them to swim back faster, following the same track. We elucidate the physical mechanism of direction reversal by fluorescent visualization of the flagella: when the bacterial body is suddenly stopped by the mucus structure, the compression on the flagellar bundle causes buckling, disassembly and reorganization on the other side of the bacterium. Our results shed light into motility of bacteria in complex visco-elastic fluids and can provide clues in the propagation of bacteria-born diseases in mucus.
Economic and Efficient phosphonic functional groups mesoporous silica for uranium selective adsorption from aqueous solutions
Authors: Sarafraz H. , Alahyarizadeh Gh. , Minuchehr A. , Modaberi H. , Naserbegi A.
Published: July 2019

A novel mesoporous silica with enhanced phosphonic functional groups (PFGs) and without any silane agents was provided by Sol-Gel technique for selective adsorption of U(VI) from aqueous solutions (AqS). The absorbent was synthesized based on the achieving the four best performance characteristics including availability, economically, adsorption efficiency, and selectivity which are undoubtedly defined the usefulness of the adsorbents. The sorption results exhibited the highest uranium adsorption capacity, qe, of 820.7 mg/g at pH ≈ 8 which indicated the adsorbent is the best alternative for uranium adsorption from the nearly neutral solutions such as seawater. The recovery percentages by the adsorbent in the aqueous environments involving other elements such as Mg, Cd, Hg, As, Ca, Na, Ni and the salty environment with high concentration of Cl− ions are indicated that the adsorbent presents the acceptable selectivity for uranium adsorption from the AqS such as industrial wastewater. Several activities and factors including removing the silane agents, using sodium metasilicate as an available and low-cost source of silica, and using the Sol-gel method as an unexpansive synthesis technique caused to reduce the synthesis costs from 222.787 EUR/kg for the template method to 60.078 EUR/kg for Sol-gel method which confirm the synthesis of a cost-effective adsorbent.
Human Corneal Expression of SLC4A11, a Gene Mutated in Endothelial Corneal Dystrophies
Authors: Malhotra Darpan , Loganathan Sampath K. , Chiu Anthony M. , Lukowski Chris M. , Casey Joseph R.
Published: July 2019

Two blinding corneal dystrophies, pediatric-onset congenital hereditary endothelial dystrophy (CHED) and some cases of late-onset Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD), are caused by SLC4A11 mutations. Three N-terminal SLC4A11 variants: v1, v2 and v3 are expressed in humans. We set out to determine which of these transcripts and what translated products, are present in corneal endothelium as these would be most relevant for CHED and FECD studies. Reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) and quantitative RT-PCR revealed only v2 and v3 mRNA in human cornea, but v2 was most abundant. Immunoblots probed with variant-specific antibodies revealed that v2 protein is about four times more abundant than v3 in human corneal endothelium. Bioinformatics and protein analysis using variant-specific antibodies revealed that second methionine in the open reading frame (M36) acts as translation initiation site on SLC4A11 v2 in human cornea. The v2 variants starting at M1 (v2-M1) and M36 (v2-M36) were indistinguishable in their cell surface trafficking and transport function (water flux). Structural homology models of v2-M36 and v3 suggest structural differences but their significance remains unclear. A combination of bioinformatics, RNA quantification and isoform-specific antibodies allows us to conclude that SLC4A11 variant 2 with start site M36 is predominant in corneal endothelium.
Pleiotropic effects of rfa-gene mutations on Escherichia coli envelope properties
Authors: Pagnout Christophe , Sohm Bénédicte , Razafitianamaharavo Angélina , Caillet Céline , Offroy Marc , Leduc Marjorie , Gendre Héloïse , Jomini Stéphane , Beaussart Audrey , Bauda Pascale , Duval Jérôme F. L.
Published: July 2019

Mutations in the rfa operon leading to severely truncated lipopolysaccharide (LPS) structures are associated with pleiotropic effects on bacterial cells, which in turn generates a complex phenotype termed deep-rough. Literature reports distinct behavior of these mutants in terms of susceptibility to bacteriophages and to several antibacterial substances. There is so far a critical lack of understanding of such peculiar structure-reactivity relationships mainly due to a paucity of thorough biophysical and biochemical characterizations of the surfaces of these mutants. In the current study, the biophysicochemical features of the envelopes of Escherichia coli deep-rough mutants are identified from the molecular to the single cell and population levels using a suite of complementary techniques, namely microelectrophoresis, Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and Isobaric Tag for Relative and Absolute Quantitation (iTRAQ) for quantitative proteomics. Electrokinetic, nanomechanical and proteomic analyses evidence enhanced mutant membrane destabilization/permeability, and differentiated abundances of outer membrane proteins involved in the susceptibility phenotypes of LPS-truncated mutants towards bacteriophages, antimicrobial peptides and hydrophobic antibiotics. In particular, inner-core LPS altered mutants exhibit the most pronounced heterogeneity in the spatial distribution of their Young modulus and stiffness, which is symptomatic of deep damages on cell envelope likely to mediate phage infection process and antibiotic action.
Photodynamic therapy of melanoma by blue-light photoactivation of flavin mononucleotide
Authors: Akasov R. A. , Sholina N. V. , Khochenkov D. A. , Alova A. V. , Gorelkin P. V. , Erofeev A. S. , Generalova A. N. , Khaydukov E. V.
Published: July 2019

Melanoma is one of the most aggressive and lethal form of cancer. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a clinically approved technique for cancer treatment, including non-melanoma skin cancer. However, the most of conventional photosensitizers are of low efficacy against melanoma due to the possible dark toxicity at high drug concentrations, melanin pigmentation, and induction of anti-oxidant defense mechanisms. In the current research we propose non-toxic flavin mononucleotide (FMN), which is a water-soluble form of riboflavin (vitamin B2) as a promising agent for photodynamic therapy of melanoma. We demonstrated selective accumulation of FMN in melanoma cells in vivo and in vitro in comparison with keratinocytes and fibroblasts. Blue light irradiation with dose 5 J/cm2 of melanoma cells pre-incubated with FMN led to cell death through apoptosis. Thus, the IC50 values of human melanoma A375, Mel IL, and Mel Z cells were in a range of FMN concentration 10–30 µM that can be achieved in tumor tissue under systemic administration. The efficiency of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation under FMN blue light irradiation was measured in single melanoma cells by a label-free technique using an electrochemical nanoprobe in a real-time control manner. Melanoma xenograft regression in mice was observed as a result of intravenous injection of FMN followed by blue-light irradiation of tumor site. The inhibition of tumor growth was 85–90% within 50 days after PDT treatment.
Effects of first-generation in utero exposure to diesel engine exhaust on second-generation placental function, fatty acid profiles and foetal metabolism in rabbits: preliminary results
Authors: Rousseau-Ralliard Delphine , Valentino Sarah A. , Aubrière Marie-Christine , Dahirel Michèle , Lallemand Marie-Sylvie , Archilla Catherine , Jouneau Luc , Fournier Natalie , Richard Christophe , Aioun Josiane , Vitorino Carvalho Anaïs , Jérôme Lecardonnel , Slama Rémy , Duranthon Véronique , Cassee Flemming R. , Chavatte-Palmer Pascale , Couturier-Tarrade Anne
Published: July 2019

Atmospheric pollution has major health effects on directly exposed subjects but intergenerational consequences are poorly characterized. We previously reported that diesel engine exhaust (DE) could lead to structural changes in the placenta of in utero exposed rabbits (first generation, F1). The effects of maternal exposure to DE were further studied on second-generation (F2) rabbits. Pregnant F0 females were exposed to filtered, diluted DE (1 mg/m3, median particle diameter: 69 nm) or clean filtered air (controls) for 2 h/day, 5 days/week by nose-only exposure during days 3–27 post-conception (dpc). Adult female offspring (F1) were mated to control males: F1 tissues and F2 foeto-placental units were collected at 28 dpc and placental structure and gene expression (microarray) analysed. Fatty acid profiles were determined in foetal and maternal plasma, maternal liver and placenta. In F1, compared to controls, hepatic neutral lipid contents were increased in exposed animals without change in the blood biochemistry. In F2, the placental lipid contents were higher, with higher monounsaturated fatty acids and reduced pro-inflammatory arachidonic acid (AA), without placental structural changes. Conversely, the proportion of anti-inflammatory n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in F2 plasma was increased while that of AA was decreased. Gene set enrichment analyses (GSEA) of F2 placenta transcriptomic data identified that the proteasome complex and ubiquitin pathways genes were over-represented and ion channel function and inflammation pathways genes were under-represented in exposed animals. These preliminary results demonstrate that diesel engine exhaust exposure and in utero indirect exposure should be considered as a programming factor within the context of the DOHaD (Developmental Origins of Health and Disease) with a probable intergenerational transmission.
Milk proteome from in silico data aggregation allows the identification of putative biomarkers of negative energy balance in dairy cows
Authors: Delosière Mylène , Pires José , Bernard Laurence , Cassar-Malek Isabelle , Bonnet Muriel
Published: July 2019

A better knowledge of the bovine milk proteome and its main drivers is a prerequisite for the modulation of bioactive proteins in milk for human nutrition, as well as for the discovery of biomarkers that are useful in husbandry and veterinary medicine. Milk composition is affected by lactation stage and reflects, in part, the energy balance of dairy cows. We aggregated the cow milk proteins reported in 20 recent proteomics publications to produce an atlas of 4654 unique proteins. A multistep assessment was applied to the milk proteome datasets according to lactation stages and milk fractions, including annotations, pathway analysis and literature mining. Fifty-nine proteins were exclusively detected in milk from early lactation. Among them, we propose six milk proteins as putative biomarkers of negative energy balance based on their implication in metabolic adaptative pathways. These proteins are PCK2, which is a gluconeogenic enzyme; ACAT1 and IVD, which are involved in ketone metabolism; SDHA and UQCRC1, which are related to mitochondrial oxidative metabolism; and LRRC59, which is linked to mammary gland cell proliferation. The cellular origin of these proteins warrants more in-depth research but may constitute part of a molecular signature for metabolic adaptations typical of early lactation.
Morphological Brain Age Prediction using Multi-View Brain Networks Derived from Cortical Morphology in Healthy and Disordered Participants
Authors: Corps Joshua , Rekik Islem
Published: July 2019

Brain development and aging are dynamic processes that unfold over years on multiple levels in both healthy and disordered individuals. Recent studies have revealed a disparity between the chronological brain age and the ‘data-driven’ brain age using functional MRI (fMRI) and diffusion MRI (dMRI). Particularly, predicting the ‘brain age’ from connectomic data might help identify relevant connectional biomarkers of neurological disorders that emerge early or late in the lifespan. While prior brain-age prediction studies have relied exclusively on either structural or functional connectomic data, here we unprecedentedly propose to predict the morphological age of the brain by solely using morphological brain networks (derived from T1-weighted images) in both healthy and disordered populations. Besides, although T1-weighted MRI was widely used for brain age prediction, it was leveraged from an image-based analysis perspective not from a connectomic perspective. Our method includes the following steps: (i) building multi-view morphological brain networks (M-MBN), (ii) feature extraction and selection, (iii) training a machine-learning regression model to predict age from M-MBN data, and (iv) utilizing our model to identify connectional brain features related to age in both autistic and healthy populations. We demonstrate that our method significantly outperforms existing approaches and discovered brain connectional morphological features that fingerprint the age of brain cortical morphology in both autistic and healthy individuals. In particular, we discovered that the connectional cortical thickness best predicts the morphological age of the autistic brain.
High-performance polyvinyl chloride gel artificial muscle actuator with graphene oxide and plasticizer
Authors: Hwang Taeseon , Frank Zachary , Neubauer Justin , Kim Kwang Jin
Published: July 2019

A transparent and electroactive plasticized polyvinyl chloride (PVC) gel was investigated to use as a soft actuator for artificial muscle applications. PVC gels were prepared with varying plasticizer (dibutyl adipate, DBA) content. The prepared PVC gels were characterized using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and dynamic mechanical analysis. The DBA content in the PVC gel was shown to have an inverse relationship with both the storage and loss modulus. The electromechanical performance of PVC gels was demonstrated for both single-layer and stacked multi-layer actuators. When voltage was applied to a single-layer actuator and then increased, the maximum displacement of PVC gels (for PVC/DBA ratios of 1:4, 1:6, and 1:8) was increased from 105.19, 123.67, and 135.55 µm (at 0.5 kV) to 140.93, 157.13, and 172.94 µm (at 1.0 kV) to 145.03, 191.34, and 212.84 µm (at 1.5 kV), respectively. The effects of graphene oxide (GO) addition in the PVC gel were also investigated. The inclusion of GO (0.1 wt.%) provided an approximate 20% enhancement of displacement and 41% increase in force production, and a 36% increase in power output for the PVC/GO gel over traditional plasticizer only PVC gel. The proposed PVC/GO gel actuator may have promising applications in artificial muscle, small mechanical devices, optics, and various opto-electro-mechanical devices due to its low-profile, transparency, and electrical response characteristics.
Efficacy of the Monte Carlo method and dose reduction strategies in paediatric panoramic radiography
Authors: Lee Chena , Park Bora , Lee Sam-Sun , Kim Jo-Eun , Han Sang-Sun , Huh Kyung-Hoe , Yi Won-Jin , Heo Min-Suk , Choi Soon-Chul
Published: July 2019

Monte Carlo (MC) simulation is a simpler radiation dose assessment method than the conventional method, thermoluminescent dosimetry (TLD). MC simulation and TLD were compared as tools to evaluate the effective dose from paediatric panoramic radiography. Various exposure conditions and machine geometries were simulated using the MC method to investigate factors resulting in effective dose reduction. The effective dose of paediatric panoramic radiography was obtained using an MC simulation and its reliability was verified by a comparison with the value obtained using TLD. Next, 7 factors determining the effective dose in the MC simulation were input with 6 equally-spaced values, and a total of 36 simulations were performed to obtain effective dose values. The correlations between each dose-determining factor and the resulting effective dose were evaluated using linear regression analysis. The TLD-measured dose was 3.850 µSv, while the MC simulation yielded a dose of 3.474 µSv. Beam height was the factor that most strongly influenced the effective dose, while rotation angle and focus-to-patient distance were the least influential factors. MC simulation is comparable to TLD for obtaining effective dose values in paediatric panoramic radiography. Obtaining panoramic radiography with a short beam height can effectively reduce the dose in paediatric patients.
Activation of The Phosphatidylcholine to Lysophosphatidylcholine Pathway Is Associated with Osteoarthritis Knee Cartilage Volume Loss Over Time
Authors: Zhai Guangju , Pelletier Jean-Pierre , Liu Ming , Aitken Dawn , Randell Edward , Rahman Proton , Jones Graeme , Martel-Pelletier Johanne
Published: July 2019

To identify serum biomarker(s) for predicting knee cartilage volume loss over time, we studied 139 knee osteoarthritis (OA) patients from a previous 24-month clinical trial cohort. Targeted metabolomic profiling was performed on serum collected at baseline. The pairwise metabolite ratios as proxies for enzymatic reaction were calculated and used in the analysis. Cartilage volume loss between baseline and 24 months was assessed quantitatively by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Data revealed an association between the serum ratio of lysophosphatidylcholine 18:2 (lysoPC 18:2) to phosphatidylcholine 44:3 (PC44:3) and the cartilage volume loss in the lateral compartment (β = −0.21 ± 0.04, p = 8.53*10−7) and with joint degradation markers, COMP (r = 0.32, p = 0.0002) and MMP1 (r = 0.26, p = 0.002). The significance remained after adjustment for age, sex, BMI, diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and the treatment taken in the original study. As the ratio indicated the over activation of the conversion pathway of PC to lysoPC catalyzed by phospholipase A2 (PLA2), we assessed and found that a specific PLA2, PLA2G5, was significantly increased in human OA cartilage and synovial membrane (85% and 19% respectively, both p < 0.04) compared to controls, and its overexpression correlated with IL-6 (r = 0.63, p = 0.0008). Our data suggest that the serum lysoPC 18:2 to PC44:3 ratio is highly associated with a greater risk of cartilage volume loss of the knee and warrants further investigation in an independent cohort.
Pattern of population structuring between Belgian and Estonian bumblebees
Authors: Maebe Kevin , Karise Reet , Meeus Ivan , Mänd Marika , Smagghe Guy
Published: July 2019

Several population genetic studies investigated the extent of gene flow and population connectivity in bumblebees. In general, no restriction in gene flow is considered for mainland populations of common bumblebee species. Whether this assumption holds true for all species is not known. An assessment of bumblebee genetic structure in the context of their geographic distribution is needed to prioritize conservation and management needs. Here, we conducted a genetic study on seven bumblebee species occurring in Belgium and Estonia. Using 16 microsatellite markers, we investigated genetic diversity and population structuring in each species. This is the first study investigating population structuring of both declining and stable bumblebee species on both small and large geographic scales. Our results showed no or only low population structuring between the populations of the restricted and declining bumblebee species on both scales, while significant structuring was found for populations of the common species on the larger scale. The latter result, which may be due to human or environmental changes in the landscape, implies the need for the conservation of also widespread bumblebee species. Conservation strategies to improve gene flow and connectivity of populations could avoid the isolation and future losses of populations of these important species.
Highly Sensitive and Precise Analysis of SF6 Decomposition Component CO by Multi-comb Optical-feedback Cavity Enhanced Absorption Spectroscopy with a 2.3 μm Diode Laser
Authors: Wan Fu , Zhou Feng , Hu Jin , Wang Pinyi , Wang Jianxin , Chen Weigen , Zhu Chengzhi , Liu Ye
Published: July 2019

A ppb-level CO sensor based on multi-comb optical-feedback cavity enhanced absorption spectroscopy with a 2.3 μm diode laser was developed for SF6 decomposition analysis in electric power system. The effective optical path reached to 4.5 km within 35 cm length cavity. Besides, through modulating the cavity length five times automatically, the spectral resolution was improved to 0.0015 cm−1 from 0.0071 cm−1. Targeting the R(6) line of CO first overtone band at 4285.01 cm−1, which is interference free from absorption spectra of SF6 mixtures (SF6, SO2, H2S, SO2F2, HF, CF4, CO2, COS, O2 and H2O), the minimum detection limit and detection precision under different gas pressures were performed. At optimum integration time of 30 s determined by Allan deviation analysis and gas pressure of 40 torr, the minimum detection limit and detection precision of CO were better than 18 ppb and 150 ppt, respectively.
Stress-driven fluid flow controls long-term megathrust strength and deep accretionary dynamics
Authors: Menant Armel , Angiboust Samuel , Gerya Taras
Published: July 2019

The heterogeneity of frictional strength along the megathrust earthquake zone critically controls plate coupling and long-term subduction dynamics. However, the persistence and distribution of high-friction segments through space and time remain poorly constrained. Here, we show that accretion processes, such as tectonic underplating (i.e., basal accretion of material below the fore-arc region), can be used as a proxy to characterize the long-term frictional zonation of the subduction interface. We carry out numerical thermo-mechanical experiments, which predict a first-order control of tectonic-stress variations on fluid transport in deep fore-arc regions. Accordingly, positive feedback between fluid distribution and effective stress favours the stability of the interface frictional properties at Myr-scale which, in turn, controls the deep accretionary dynamics. We propose that the recognition of thick duplex structures resulting from successive underplating events over tens of Myr, allows for tracking subduction segments exhibiting an increasing frictional behaviour. Our numerical results help ascertain the long-term hydro-mechanical properties and distribution of coupling/decoupling segments of megathrust earthquake zones worldwide where active tectonic underplating is recognized.
Age-dependent regulation of host seeking in Anopheles coluzzii
Authors: Omondi A. B. , Ghaninia M. , Dawit M. , Svensson T. , Ignell R.
Published: July 2019

Behavioural attraction of the malaria vector Anopheles coluzzii to human host odour increases during adult maturation. We have previously demonstrated that the onset of host seeking in An. coluzzii coincides with an increased sensitivity of the CO2-sensitive neurons and abundance of chemosensory receptor gene transcripts in the maxillary palp. In this study, we extend our analysis to the antenna. Functional characterisation of the near-complete repertoire of odorant receptors (Ors) expressed in this tissue, to fractioned human odour, reveals a subset of salient human odorants to be detected by Ors at physiological relevant concentrations. When presented as a blend in their ratio of natural emission, these odorants elicit attraction by host-seeking mosquitoes, emphasising that Ors alone can mediate this behaviour. However, the same blend inhibits attraction in teneral mosquitoes. This switch in behavioural response indicates a change in valence during adult maturation. Quantitative analysis of Or transcript abundance and in vivo electrophysiological analysis reveal that the olfactory system of female An. coluzzii undergoes concerted changes that correlate with the onset of host seeking. We conclude that changes in Or abundance modulate peripheral olfactory coding, resulting in ecologically relevant behavioural effects.
Angiographic Subtypes of Neovascular Age-related Macular Degeneration in Korean: A New Diagnostic Challenge
Authors: Bae Kunho , Noh Sung Rae , Kang Se Woong , Kim Eung Suk , Yu Seung-Young
Published: July 2019

Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of irreversible blindness in elderly population. Several classifications schemes have been developed to provide subtypes of neovascular AMD, which are known to be associated with visual prognosis. However, there is still a large proportion of patient with ambiguous findings according to current classification criteria. In this study, we classified treatment-naïve neovascular AMD patients using novel angiographic classification system and investigated the incidence and clinical characteristics of AMD subtypes. Among 339 eyes, five AMD subtypes were identified: 41 (12.1%) with classic choroidal neovascularization (CNV), 30 (8.8%) with occult CNV, 91 (26.8%) with microaneurysmal choroidal vasculopathy (MCV), 123 (36.3%) with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV), and 54 (15.9%) with retinal angiomatous proliferation (RAP). MCV was younger than RAP (P < 0.001). Classic CNV presented with worse visual acuity compared with MCV at baseline (P < 0.001). Central macular subfield thickness was highest in RAP, and lowest in MCV (P = 0.036). Subfoveal choroidal thickness was highest in MCV, and lowest in RAP (P < 0.001). There was a significant difference in visual acuity at 12 months among five subtypes (P = 0.046). Our results highlight the importance of angiography for identifying AMD subtypes, particularly the novel MCV group being distinct from other subtypes.
Rescue of tight junctional localization of a claudin-16 mutant D97S by antimalarial medicine primaquine in Madin-Darby canine kidney cells
Authors: Marunaka Kana , Fujii Naoko , Kimura Toru , Furuta Takumi , Hasegawa Hajime , Matsunaga Toshiyuki , Endo Satoshi , Ikari Akira
Published: July 2019

Magnesium ion (Mg2+) is paracellularly reabsorbed through claudin-16 (CLDN16) in the thick ascending limb (TAL) of Henle’s loop in the kidney. Genetic disorders of CLDN16 cause mislocalization of CLDN16, resulting in hypomagnesemia. There is no effective treatment for hypomagnesemia except for magnesium administration. Here, we searched for a novel drug to restore tight junctional localization of a CLDN16 mutant. A D97S mutant, which has a mutation in the first extracellular loop (ECL) of CLDN16, was mainly colocalized with endosome marker, whereas wild-type (WT) CLDN16 was colocalized with ZO-1, an adaptor protein of tight junctions. The protein stability of the D97S mutant was lower than that of WT. The expression level of the D97S mutant was increased by lactacystin, a proteasomal inhibitor. Endocytosis inhibitors increased the tight junctional localization of the D97S mutant. We found that primaquine, an antimalarial agent, increased the protein stability and cell surface localization of the D97S mutant, but the localization of other mutants, which have mutations in the cytosolic domain or second ECL, was not affected. Transepithelial Mg2+ flux was increased by primaquine in D97S mutant-expressing cells. The expression of chaperon proteins, proteasome activity, and lactate dehydrogenase release were decreased by primaquine, and the proportion of viable cells increased. In contrast, these effects were not observed in WT CLDN16-expressing cells. These results suggested that primaquine increases the tight junctional localization of the D97S mutant, resulting in a reduction in ER stress and cellular injury. Primaquine may become an effective treatment drug for selected patients with mutant CLDN16.
High-throughput stem cell-based phenotypic screening through microniches
Authors: Kolb Laura , Allazetta Simone , Karlsson Maria , Girgin Mehmet , Weber Wilfried , Lutolf Matthias P.
Published: July 2019

Methods for screening combinations of signals for their effects on stem cell behavior are needed in the field of tissue engineering. We introduce a microgel-based screening platform for testing combinations of proteins on stem cell fate.
Liquid state fermentation vinegar enriched with catechin as an antiglycative food product
Authors: Wu Qian , Min Yaoyao , Xiao Jinsong , Feng Nianjie , Chen Yuanyuan , Luo Qing , Zhou Mengzhou , Li Dongsheng , Hu Zhongli , Wang Chao
Published: July 2019

Catechin, a natural antiglycative agent, was incorporated into fermented vinegar, and has high potential to lower the risk of diabetes.
An automated high-throughput sample preparation method using double-filtration for serum metabolite LC-MS analysis
Authors: Joo Minjoong , Park Jong-Moon , Duong Van-An , Kwon Dami , Jeon Jongho , Han Miso , Cho Byung-Kwan , Choi Hyung-Kyoon , Lee Choul-Gyun , Kang Hee-Gyoo , Lee Hookeun
Published: July 2019

A novel, automated sample preparation method for serum metabolite LC-MS analysis was developed using a double-filtration system.
Adaptive control in lubrication, adhesion, and hemostasis by Chitosan–Catechol–pNIPAM
Authors: Xu Rongnian , Ma Shuanhong , Wu Yang , Lee Haeshin , Zhou Feng , Liu Weimin
Published: July 2019

One kind of novel thermo-responsive polysaccharide wet adhesive of Chitosan–Catechol–pNIPAM is synthesized, which exhibits temperature dependent sol–gel transition, controllable wet friction/adhesiveness and instant hemostasis.
3D honeycomb-like carbon foam synthesized with biomass buckwheat flour for high-performance supercapacitor electrodes
Authors: Huang Jing , Wu Jinggao , Dai Fangyin , Li Chang Ming
Published: July 2019

A facile, one-step carbonization of buckwheat flour is innovated to synthesize honeycomb-like porous carbon, which exhibits specific capacitance (767 F g−1 at 1 A g−1) and stability with a retention of up to 92.6% after 10 000 cycles.
Facile one-step dialysis strategy for fabrication of hollow complex nanoparticles
Authors: Cui Lili , Wang Chenchen , Zhang Hongwei , Ma Yunsheng , Deng Guang , Zhou Zhiguo , Lin Jiaomin , Yang Hong , Yang Shiping
Published: July 2019

A facile one-step dialysis method was developed for preparing hollow complex nanoparticles.
Evaluating the efficacy of a ferrous-ion-chelating peptide from Alaska pollock frame for the improvement of iron nutritional status in rats
Authors: Ma Xiaoming , Liu Chuyi , Song Wenshan , Che Shuai , Wang Changwei , Feng Xiaomei , Li Bafang , Dai Yuankun
Published: July 2019

Ferrous-ion-chelating peptides from the Alaska pollock frame are effective in improving the iron nutritional status in IDA rats.
Mulberry leaves ameliorate obesity through enhancing brown adipose tissue activity and modulating gut microbiota
Authors: Sheng Yao , Liu Junyu , Zheng Shujuan , Liang Fei , Luo Yunbo , Huang Kunlun , Xu Wentao , He Xiaoyun
Published: July 2019

The increased prevalence of obesity significantly affects human health worldwide.
Low doses of cocoa extract supplementation ameliorate diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance in rats
Authors: Aranaz Paula , Romo-Hualde Ana , Navarro-Herrera David , Zabala María , López-Yoldi Miguel , González-Ferrero Carolina , Gil Ana Gloria , Martínez J. Alfredo , Vizmanos José Luis , Milagro Fermín I. , González-Navarro Carlos J.
Published: July 2019

Supplementation with low doses of a cocoa extract induces metabolic benefits in the prevention of metabolic syndrome in rats, reducing body-weight gain, visceral adiposity and liver steatosis and improving insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance.
Different inhibition properties of catechins on the individual subunits of mucosal α-glucosidases as measured by partially-purified rat intestinal extract
Authors: Lim Jongbin , Kim Do Kyoung , Shin Hansol , Hamaker Bruce R. , Lee Byung-Hoo
Published: July 2019

Mucosal α-glucosidases from rat intestinal powder were employed, with a step to remove α-amylase, to measure the possibility of different inhibition of catechins, particularly those found in tea, on the four α-glucosidase enzymes.
Laser ablation-tandem ICP-mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS/MS) imaging of iron oxide nanoparticles in Ca-rich gelatin microspheres
Authors: Van Acker Thibaut , Bolea-Fernandez Eduardo , De Vlieghere Elly , Gao Jingxian , De Wever Olivier , Vanhaecke Frank
Published: July 2019

A new analytical method for quantitative high-resolution LA-ICP-MS/MS imaging of FeOx NPs in gelatin microspheres.
Dihydropyrimidine-2-thiones as Eg5 inhibitors and L-type calcium channel blockers: potential antitumour dual agents
Authors: González-Hernández Elena , Aparicio Rubén , Garayoa Mercedes , Montero M. José , Sevilla M. Ángeles , Pérez-Melero Concepción
Published: July 2019

4-Aryldihydropyrimidine-2-thiones are proposed as potential antitumour dual agents, both as Eg5 inhibitors and L-type calcium channel blockers.
Benzoazacrown compound: a highly effective chelator for therapeutic bismuth radioisotopes
Authors: Matazova Ekaterina V. , Egorova Bayirta V. , Konopkina Ekaterina A. , Aleshin Gleb Yu. , Zubenko Anastasia D. , Mitrofanov Artem A. , Karpov Kirill V. , Fedorova Olga A. , Fedorov Yuri V. , Kalmykov Stepan N.
Published: July 2019

Ligand H4BATA forms highly stable complex with bismuth(iii) in 1–2 min at room temperature.
Water distribution at the electrified interface of deep eutectic solvents
Authors: Mamme Mesfin Haile , Moors Samuel L. C. , Mernissi Cherigui El Amine , Terryn Herman , Deconinck Johan , Ustarroz Jon , De Proft Frank
Published: July 2019

Preferential asymmetric electrosorption of water onto a moderately polarized electrode surface.
A highly selective and sensitive ESIPT-based coumarin–triazole polymer for the ratiometric detection of Hg2+
Authors: Ngororabanga Jean Marie Vianney , Tshentu Zenixole R. , Mama Neliswa
Published: July 2019

A reversible ESIPT based system for the detection of Hg2+ was developed. The system exhibited better properties compared to that of recently developed ratiometric fluorescent systems.
Hydrazide-integrated carbazoles: synthesis, computational, anticancer and molecular docking studies
Authors: Krishnan Kannan Gokula , Ashothai Pathinettampadi , Padmavathy Krishnaraj , Lim Wei-Meng , Mai Chun-Wai , Thanikachalam Punniyakoti V. , Ramalingan Chennan
Published: July 2019

Novel carbazolylmethylene isonictinohydrazides have been synthesized as anticancer agents against pancreatic cancer cells.
Selective targeting of tumor cells and tumor associated macrophages separately by twin-like core–shell nanoparticles for enhanced tumor-localized chemoimmunotherapy
Authors: Wang Tianqi , Zhang Jing , Hou Teng , Yin Xiaolan , Zhang Na
Published: July 2019

Twin-like core–shell nanoparticles (TCN) could modify two drugs with similar biodistribution for selective targeting delivery in cancer combination therapy.
Unified synthesis and cytotoxic activity of 8-O-methylfusarubin and its analogues
Authors: Vijitphan Pongsit , Rukachaisirikul Vatcharin , Muanprasat Chatchai , Iawsipo Panata , Panprasert Jiraporn , Tadpetch Kwanruthai
Published: July 2019

A unified total synthesis of 8-O-methylfusarubin, 8-O-methylanhydrofusarubin, fusarubin and anhydrofusarubin and their cytotoxic activities against six cancer cell lines are described.
Influence of ions to modulate hydrazone and oxime reaction kinetics to obtain dynamically cross-linked hyaluronic acid hydrogels
Authors: Wang Shujiang , Nawale Ganesh N. , Oommen Oommen P. , Hilborn Jöns , Varghese Oommen P.
Published: July 2019

Simple monovalent and divalent salts are presented as a novel catalyst for performing hydrazone and oxime coupling chemistry at physiological pH with excellent yields.
Visible light-mediated photo-oxygenation of arylcyclohexenes
Authors: Bayer Patrick , Schachtner Josef , Májek Michal , Jacobi von Wangelin Axel
Published: July 2019

The photo-oxygenation of versatile arylcycloalkenes proceeds through zwitterionic intermediates and provides access to new allyl hydroperoxides and endoperoxides.
Kinetic studies of few-layer graphene grown by flame deposition from the perspective of gas composition and temperature
Authors: Ismail Edhuan , Fauzi Fatin Bazilah , Mohamed Mohd Ambri , Mohd Yasin Mohd Fairus , Mohd Abid Mohd Asyadi Azam , Yaacob Iskandar Idris , Md Din Muhamad Faiz , Ani Mohd Hanafi
Published: July 2019

Growth kinetics of few-layer graphene grown by flame deposition correlates to BIN20J species in a methane to soot mechanism model.
Deposition of zinc oxide as an electron transport layer in planar perovskite solar cells by spray and SILAR methods comparable with spin coating
Authors: Dehghan M. , Behjat A.
Published: July 2019

We have examined the versatility of spray and SILAR coating methods in fabricating mass produced low cost efficient planar perovskite solar cells.
Structure and dynamics of γ-secretase with presenilin 2 compared to presenilin 1
Authors: Dehury Budheswar , Tang Ning , Blundell Tom L. , Kepp Kasper P.
Published: July 2019

We constructed a model of presenilin-2 γ-secretase in the membrane and studied it by all-atom molecular dynamics simulations. The study provides the first structural-dynamic comparison of presenilin 1 and 2 relevant to Alzheimer's disease.
Organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite quantum dot light-emitting diodes using a graphene electrode and modified PEDOT:PSS
Authors: Zhang Qing , Yu Hongtao , Liu Ziwei , Lu Yao , Ye Danqing , Qian Jie , Wu Yanan , Gu Wenwen , Ma Ben , Zhang Liuquan , Duan Yu , Liu Lihui , Cao Kun , Chen Shufen , Huang Wei
Published: July 2019

A graphene electrode together with modified PEDOT:PSS was first applied into perovskite quantum dot light-emitting diodes to improve the device performance.
Novel polymeric derivatives of betulin with anticancer activity
Authors: Niewolik Daria , Krukiewicz Katarzyna , Bednarczyk-Cwynar Barbara , Ruszkowski Piotr , Jaszcz Katarzyna
Published: July 2019

In order to provide novel polymeric biomaterials for chemotherapeutic purposes, in this paper we described the synthesis and the characterization of the physicochemical properties of a betulin-based polyanhydride exhibiting anti-cancer effects.
Cobalt(ii)-catalyzed benzylic oxidations with potassium persulfate in TFA/TFAA
Authors: Li Tianlei , Li Jishun , Zhu Zihao , Pan Weidong , Wu Song
Published: July 2019

A Co-catalyzed C(sp3)–H oxygenation reaction to furnish diverse aldehydes from methylarenes in TFA/TFAA is reported. This transformation demonstrated high chemo-selectivity, and tolerated with various methylarenes bearing electron-withdrawing substituents.
Preparation of multi-scale FOX-7 particles and investigation of sensitivity and thermal stability
Authors: Xu Ruixuan , An Chongwei , Huang Hao , Wang Jingyu , Ye Baoyun , Liu Bin
Published: July 2019

Multi-scale ultrafine 1,1-diamino-2,2-dinitroethene (FOX-7) samples with different particle size were fabricated and specifically, nano-FOX-7 was successfully prepared by a green mechanophysical milling method.
Cytochrome P450 1B1: role in health and disease and effect of nutrition on its expression
Authors: Shah Bakht Ramin , Xu Wei , Mraz Jan
Published: July 2019

This review summarizes the available literature stating CYP1B1 to provide the readers with a comprehensive understanding of its role in different diseases, as well as the importance of nutrition in their control in terms of the influence of different nutrients on its expression.
Theoretical calculation of a full-dimensional ab initio potential energy surface and prediction of infrared spectra for Xe–CS2
Authors: Qin Miao , Xiao Xiuchan , Zhu Hua
Published: July 2019

Contour plot (in cm−1) of the averaged intermolecular potential energy surface for Xe–CS2 with CS2 at the ν1 + ν3 excited state.
Solvent-free synthesis and characterization of allyl chitosan derivatives
Authors: Akopova Tatiana A. , Demina Tatiana S. , Cherkaev Georgii V. , Khavpachev Mukhamed A. , Bardakova Kseniya N. , Grachev Andrey V. , Vladimirov Leonid V. , Zelenetskii Alexander N. , Timashev Petr S.
Published: July 2019

The allyl chitosan derivatives are synthesized, characterized and evaluated as photosensitive components for creation of biomedical materials with well-defined architectonics.
New molecular architectures containing low-valent cluster centres with di- and trimetalated 2-vinylpyrazine ligands: synthesis and molecular structures of Ru5(CO)15(μ5-C4H2N2CHCH)(μ-H)2 and Ru8(CO)24(μ7-C4H2N2CHC)(μ-H)3
Authors: Hossain Md. Monir , Akter Nahid , Ghosh Shishir , Nesterov Vladimir N. , Richmond Michael G. , Hogarth Graeme , Kabir Shariff E.
Published: July 2019

Reaction of 2-vinylpyrazine with Ru3(CO)12 results in multiple C–H bond activations to afford Ru5 and Ru8 clusters.
Dissolution performance of cellulose in [A2im][MOA]/MIM solvents
Authors: Xu Airong , Wang Yongxin , Li Changzhu , Xiao Zhihong , Liu Rukuan
Published: July 2019

Cellulose solvents ([A2im][MOA]/MIM) were developed by combining diallylimidazolium methoxyacetate ([A2im][MOA]) with N-methylimidazole (MIM).
Before Förster. Initial excitation in photosynthetic light harvesting
Authors: Karki Khadga J. , Chen Junsheng , Sakurai Atsunori , Shi Qi , Gardiner Alastair T. , Kühn Oliver , Cogdell Richard J. , Pullerits Tönu
Published: July 2019

Fluorescence detected double quantum coherence 2D spectroscopy reveals strong correlation between weakly coupled pigment pools directly after absorption of light before the Förster transfer regime sets in.
Demonstration of a 50 cm2 BiVO4 tandem photoelectrochemical-photovoltaic water splitting device
Authors: Ahmet Ibbi Y. , Ma Yimeng , Jang Ji-Wook , Henschel Tobias , Stannowski Bernd , Lopes Tânia , Vilanova António , Mendes Adélio , Abdi Fatwa F. , van de Krol Roel
Published: July 2019

Mitigation of ohmic losses and mass transport limitations enables a large area BiVO4-based water splitting device with a solar-to-hydrogen efficiency of 2.1%.
Understanding conformational and dynamical evolution of semiflexible polymers in shear flow
Authors: Kong Xiangxin , Han Yingchun , Chen Wenduo , Cui Fengchao , Li Yunqi
Published: July 2019

At small and intermediate shear strength, flexible polymers show a quasi-affine deformation while semiflexible ones are initially unfolded from the center.
Chemically active nanodroplets in a multi-component fluid
Authors: Osmanović Dino , Rabin Yitzhak
Published: July 2019

We introduce a model of chemically active particles of a multi-component fluid that can change their interactions with other particles depending on their state.
Conformational behavior of a semiflexible dipolar chain with a variable relative size of charged groupsviamolecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Gordievskaya Yulia D. , Kramarenko Elena Yu.
Published: July 2019

The conformational behavior of an isolated semiflexible dipolar chain has been studied by molecular dynamics simulations.
Fundamental nanoscale surface strategies for robustly controlling heterogeneous nucleation of calcium carbonate
Authors: Zhao Junjie , Wang Minghui , Jebutu Mofoluwaso S. , Zhu Minghui , Gleason Karen K.
Published: July 2019

Stable ultrathin polymer films synthesizedviainitiated chemical vapor deposition enable robust control of heterogeneous nucleation of CaCO3on metal heat transfer surfaces at high temperatures.
Superwetting and mechanically robust MnO2 nanowire–reduced graphene oxide monolithic aerogels for efficient solar vapor generation
Authors: Zhang Zheng , Mu Peng , Han Jingxin , He Jingxian , Zhu Zhaoqi , Sun Hanxue , Liang Weidong , Li An
Published: July 2019

Through the method of integrated molding and simple spraying, our PNGA can be easily prepared, which exhibit solar steam generation efficiency of 93.8% under 1 sun and excellent barrier properties for pollutant, thus increase practical possibilities.
Polydopamine-modulated covalent organic framework membranes for molecular separation
Authors: Shen Jianliang , Zhang Runnan , Su Yanlei , Shi Benbing , You Xinda , Guo Weixiong , Ma Yu , Yuan Jinqiu , Wang Fei , Jiang Zhongyi
Published: July 2019

Ultrathin and defect-free sulfonated imine-linked COF membranes were fabricated on a porous support via a polydopamine (PDA)-modulated bottom-up approach for molecular separation.
Deliberate construction of direct Z-scheme photocatalysts through photodeposition
Authors: Jiang Wenshuai , Qu Dan , An Li , Gao Xiang , Wen Yuanjing , Wang Xiayan , Sun Zaicheng
Published: July 2019

Photodeposition can effectively regulate charge transfer sites and deposit the second semiconductor at a specific site to form a direct Z-scheme.
Polypyrrole coated hollow metal–organic framework composites for lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Geng Pengbiao , Cao Shuai , Guo Xiaotian , Ding Jiawei , Zhang Songtao , Zheng Mingbo , Pang Huan
Published: July 2019

Polypyrrole coated hollow MOF composites are synthesized for Li–S battery electrodes, combining the porous structure of ZIF-67 and high conductivity of polypyrrole. The composites obtained a high initial specific capacity and good cycling performance.