bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adaptive aggregation by spider mites under predation risk
Authors: Dittmann Lena , Schausberger Peter
Published: August 2017

Grouping together is a commonly observed anti-predator strategy. Possible anti-predator benefits of aggregation include the encounter/avoidance effect for visually hunting predators and the dilution effect, together dubbed attack abatement. Possible costs opposing the dilution effect are easier detection of aggregated than scattered individuals. The benefits of attack abatement, and opposing costs after group detection, are poorly understood for chemosensory predator-prey interactions. We tackled this issue by assessing the aggregation behavior of spider mitesTetranychus urticaeunder predation risk emanating from predatory mitesPhytoseiulus persimilis. We examined whether adult spider mite females aggregate more tightly when perceiving predator cues (traces left and eggs), representing graded risk levels, and whether grouping enhances survival in physical predator presence. The spider mites aggregated more tightly and were more active in presence than absence of predator cues. Grouped spider mites were less likely and later detected and attacked than scattered spider mites. Moreover, encounter and attack of one group member did not increase the risk of other members to be attacked, as compared to scattered spider mites. To the best of our knowledge, our study is the first rigorous documentation of the adaptive benefit of tightened prey aggregation towards a purely chemosensorily hunting predator.
Comparative study on cellular entry of incinerated ancient gold particles (Swarna Bhasma) and chemically synthesized gold particles
Authors: Beaudet Daniel , Badilescu Simona , Kuruvinashetti Kiran , Sohrabi Kashani Ahmad , Jaunky Dilan , Ouellette Sylvie , Piekny Alisa , Packirisamy Muthukumaran
Published: August 2017

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are used for a number of imaging and therapeutic applications in east and western part of the world. For thousands of years, the traditional Indian Ayurvedic approach to healing involves the use of incinerated gold ash, prepared with a variety of plant extracts and minerals depending on the region. Here, we describe the characterization of incinerated gold particles (IAuPs) in HeLa (human cells derived from cervical cancer) and HFF-1 (human foreskin fibroblast cells) in comparison to synthesized citrate-capped gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). We found that while individual IAuP crystallites are around 60 nm in size, they form large aggregates with a mean diameter of 4711.7 nm, some of which can enter cells. Fewer cells appeared to have IAuPs compared to AuNPs, although neither type of particle was toxic to cells. Imaging studies revealed that IAuPs were in vesicles, cytosol, or in the nucleus. We found that their nuclear accumulation likely occurred after nuclear envelope breakdown during cell division. We also found that larger IAuPs entered cells via macropinocytosis, while smaller particles entered via clathrin-dependent receptor-mediated endocytosis.
Mechanisms of charge transfer and electronic properties of Cu2ZnGeS4 from investigations of the high-field magnetotransport
Authors: Guc Maxim , Lähderanta Erkki , Hajdeu-Chicarosh Elena , Levcenko Sergiu , Shakhov Mikhail A. , Zakharchuk Ivan , Arushanov Ernest , Lisunov Konstantin G.
Published: August 2017

Recent development of the thin film solar cells, based on quaternary compounds, has been focused on the Ge contain compounds and their solid solutions. However, for effective utilization of Cu2ZnGeS4, deeper investigations of its transport properties are required. In the present manuscript, we investigate resistivity, ρ (T), magnetoresistance and Hall effect in p-type Cu2ZnGeS4 single crystals in pulsed magnetic fields up to 20 T. The dependence of ρ (T) in zero magnetic field is described by the Mott type of the variable-range hopping (VRH) charge transfer mechanism within a broad temperature interval of ~100–200 K. Magnetoresistance contains the positive and negative components, which are interpreted by the common reasons of doped semiconductors. On the other hand, a joint analysis of the resistivity and magnetoresistance data has yielded series of important electronic parameters and permitted specification of the Cu2ZnGeS4 conductivity mechanisms outside the temperature intervals of the Mott VRH conduction. The Hall coefficient is negative, exhibiting an exponential dependence on temperature, which is quite close to that of ρ(T). This is typical of the Hall effect in the domain of the VRH charge transfer.
Process design of microdomains with quantum mechanics for giant pulse lasers
Authors: Sato Yoichi , Akiyama Jun , Taira Takunori
Published: August 2017

The power scaling of laser devices can contribute to the future of humanity. Giant microphotonics have been advocated as a solution to this issue. Among various technologies in giant microphotonics, process control of microdomains with quantum mechanical calculations is expected to increase the optical power extracted per unit volume in gain media. Design of extensive variables influencing the Gibbs energy of controlled microdomains in materials can realize desired properties. Here we estimate the angular momentum quantum number of rare-earth ions in microdomains. Using this process control, we generate kilowatt-level laser output from orientation-controlled microdomains in a laser gain medium. We also consider the limitations of current samples, and discuss the prospects of power scaling and applications of our technology. This work overturns at least three common viewpoints in current advanced technologies, including material processing based on magnetohydrodynamics, grain-size control of transparent polycrystals in fine ceramics, and the crystallographic symmetry of laser ceramics in photonics.
Altered topology of structural brain networks in patients with Gilles de la Tourette syndrome
Authors: Schlemm E. , Cheng B. , Fischer F. , Hilgetag C. , Gerloff C. , Thomalla G.
Published: August 2017

Gilles de la Tourette syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by tics. Abnormal neuronal circuits in a wide-spread structural and functional network involved in planning, execution and control of motor functions are thought to represent the underlying pathology. We therefore studied changes of structural brain networks in 13 adult GTS patients reconstructed by diffusion tensor imaging and probabilistic tractography. Structural connectivity and network topology were characterized by graph theoretical measures and compared to 13 age-matched controls. In GTS patients, significantly reduced connectivity was detected in right hemispheric networks. These were furthermore characterized by significantly reduced local graph parameters (local clustering, efficiency and strength) indicating decreased structural segregation of local subnetworks. Contrasting these results, whole brain and right hemispheric networks of GTS patients showed significantly increased normalized global efficiency indicating an overall increase of structural integration among distributed areas. Higher global efficiency was associated with tic severity (R = 0.63, p = 0.022) suggesting the clinical relevance of altered network topology. Our findings reflect an imbalance between structural integration and segregation in right hemispheric structural connectome of patients with GTS. These changes might be related to an underlying pathology of impaired neuronal development, but could also indicate potential adaptive plasticity.
High diagnostic value of second generation CSF RT-QuIC across the wide spectrum of CJD prions
Authors: Franceschini Alessia , Baiardi Simone , Hughson Andrew G. , McKenzie Neil , Moda Fabio , Rossi Marcello , Capellari Sabina , Green Alison , Giaccone Giorgio , Caughey Byron , Parchi Piero
Published: August 2017

An early and accurate in vivo diagnosis of rapidly progressive dementia remains challenging, despite its critical importance for the outcome of treatable forms, and the formulation of prognosis. Real-Time Quaking-Induced Conversion (RT-QuIC) is an in vitro assay that, for the first time, specifically discriminates patients with prion disease. Here, using cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples from 239 patients with definite or probable prion disease and 100 patients with a definite alternative diagnosis, we compared the performance of the first (PQ-CSF) and second generation (IQ-CSF) RT-QuIC assays, and investigated the diagnostic value of IQ-CSF across the broad spectrum of human prions. Our results confirm the high sensitivity of IQ-CSF for detecting human prions with a sub-optimal sensitivity for the sporadic CJD subtypes MM2C and MM2T, and a low sensitivity limited to variant CJD, Gerstmann-Sträussler-Scheinker syndrome and fatal familial insomnia. While we found no difference in specificity between PQ-CSF and IQ-CSF, the latter showed a significant improvement in sensitivity, allowing prion detection in about 80% of PQ-CSF negative CJD samples. Our results strongly support the implementation of IQ-CSF in clinical practice. By rapidly confirming or excluding CJD with high accuracy the assay is expected to improve the outcome for patients and their enrollment in therapeutic trials.
Highly Efficient Colored Perovskite Solar Cells Integrated with Ultrathin Subwavelength Plasmonic Nanoresonators
Authors: Lee Kyu-Tae , Jang Ji-Yun , Zhang Jing , Yang Sung-Mo , Park Sanghyuk , Park Hui Joon
Published: August 2017

Highly efficient colored perovskite solar cells that exploit localized surface plasmon resonances in ultrathin subwavelength plasmonic nanoresonators are demonstrated. Localized resonances in ultrathin metal nano-strip optical resonators consisting of an array of metallic subwavelength nanowires on a transparent substrate, fabricated by using low-cost nanoimprint lithography over a large area, lead to a sharp peak in a reflection spectrum for distinctive color generation with angle-insensitive property up to 60°, and simultaneously transmit the complementary spectrum of visible light that can be efficiently harvested by the perovskite solar cells for electric power generation. The plasmonic color filter-integrated perovskite solar cells provide 10.12%, 8.17% and 7.72% of power conversion efficiencies with capabilities of creating vivid reflective red, green and blue colors. The scheme described in this work could be applied to a variety of applications such as power-generating decorations, tandem cells, power-saving wearable devices and energy-efficient reflective display technologies.
A fluorescence-based reporter for monitoring expression of mycobacterial cytochrome bd in response to antibacterials and during infection
Authors: Boot Maikel , Jim Kin Ki , Liu Ting , Commandeur Susanna , Lu Ping , Verboom Theo , Lill Holger , Bitter Wilbert , Bald Dirk
Published: August 2017

Cytochrome bd is a component of the oxidative phosphorylation pathway in many Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Next to its role as a terminal oxidase in the respiratory chain this enzyme plays an important role as a survival factor in the bacterial stress response. In Mycobacterium tuberculosis and related mycobacterial strains, cytochrome bd is an important component of the defense system against antibacterial drugs. In this report we describe and evaluate an mCherry-based fluorescent reporter for detection of cytochrome bd expression in Mycobacterium marinum. Cytochrome bd was induced by mycolic acid biosynthesis inhibitors such as isoniazid and most prominently by drugs targeting oxidative phosphorylation. We observed no induction by inhibitors of protein-, DNA- or RNA-synthesis. The constructed expression reporter was suitable for monitoring mycobacterial cytochrome bd expression during mouse macrophage infection and in a zebrafish embryo infection model when using Mycobacterium marinum. Interestingly, in both these infection models cytochrome bd levels were considerably higher than during in vitro culturing of M. marinum. The expression reporter described here can be a valuable tool for elucidating the role of cytochrome bd as a survival factor.
A Method for Combined Retinal Vascular and Tissue Oxygen Tension Imaging
Authors: Felder Anthony E. , Wanek Justin , Tan Michael R. , Blair Norman P. , Shahidi Mahnaz
Published: August 2017

The retina requires adequate oxygenation to maintain cellular metabolism and visual function. Inner retinal oxygen metabolism is directly related to retinal vascular oxygen tension (PO2) and inner retinal oxygen extraction fraction (OEF), whereas outer retinal oxygen consumption (QO2) relies on oxygen availability by the choroid and is contingent upon retinal tissue oxygen tension (tPO2) gradients across the retinal depth. Thus far, these oxygenation and metabolic parameters have been measured independently by different techniques in separate animals, precluding a comprehensive and correlative assessment of retinal oxygenation and metabolism dynamics. The purpose of the current study is to report an innovative optical system for dual oxyphor phosphorescence lifetime imaging to near-simultaneously measure retinal vascular PO2 and tPO2 in rats. The use of a new oxyphor with different spectral characteristics allowed differentiation of phosphorescence signals from the retinal vasculature and tissue. Concurrent measurements of retinal arterial and venous PO
2
, tPO2 through the retinal depth, inner retinal OEF, and outer retinal QO
2
were demonstrated, permitting a correlative assessment of retinal oxygenation and metabolism. Future application of this method can be used to investigate the relations among retinal oxygen content, extraction and metabolism under pathologic conditions and thus advance knowledge of retinal hypoxia pathophysiology.
A progesterone-brown fat axis is involved in regulating fetal growth
Authors: McIlvride Saraid , Mushtaq Aleena , Papacleovoulou Georgia , Hurling Chloe , Steel Jennifer , Jansen Eugène , Abu-Hayyeh Shadi , Williamson Catherine
Published: August 2017

Pregnancy is associated with profound maternal metabolic changes, necessary for the growth and development of the fetus, mediated by reproductive signals acting on metabolic organs. However, the role of brown adipose tissue (BAT) in regulating gestational metabolism is unknown. We show that BAT phenotype is lost in murine pregnancy, while there is a gain of white adipose tissue (WAT)-like features. This is characterised by reduced thermogenic capacity and mitochondrial content, accompanied by increased levels of markers of WAT and lipid accumulation. Surgical ablation of BAT prior to conception caused maternal and fetal hyperlipidemia, and consequently larger fetuses. We show that BAT phenotype is altered from day 5 of gestation, implicating early pregnancy factors, which was confirmed by reduced expression of BAT markers in progesterone challenged oophorectomised mice. Moreover, in vitro data using primary BAT cultures show a direct impact of progesterone on expression of Ucp1. These data demonstrate that progesterone mediates a phenotypic change in BAT, which contributes to the gestational metabolic environment, and thus overall fetal size.
The impact of wavelengths of LED light-therapy on endothelial cells
Authors: Rohringer Sabrina , Holnthoner Wolfgang , Chaudary Sidrah , Slezak Paul , Priglinger Eleni , Strassl Martin , Pill Karoline , Mühleder Severin , Redl Heinz , Dungel Peter
Published: August 2017

Low level light therapy receives increasing interest in the fields of tissue regeneration and wound healing. Severalin vivostudies demonstrated the positive effects of LLLT on angiogenesis. This study aimed to investigate the underlying propertiesin vitroby comparing the effects of light therapy by light emitting diodes of different wavelengths on endothelial cellsin vitro. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells were treated with either 475 nm, 516 nm or 635 nm light. Control cells were not illuminated. 2D proliferation was quantified by manual counting. HUVEC migration was analyzed by performing a 2D wound scratch assay and a 3D bead assay. The influence of LLLT on early vasculogenic events was determined in a 3D fibrin co-culture model with adipose-derived stem cells. Stimulation with both red and green pulsed LED light significantly increased HUVEC proliferation and 3D migration. Moreover, HUVEC showed increased 2D migration potential with green light stimulation. The treatment with blue light was ineffective. Several parameters showed that green light was even more potent to stimulate proliferation and migration of endothelial cells than clinically well-established red light therapy. Further studies have to focus on intracellular mechanisms induced by different wavelengths in order to optimize this promising therapy in tissue regeneration.
Ligand activation induces different conformational changes in CXCR3 receptor isoforms as evidenced by plasmon waveguide resonance (PWR)
Authors: Boyé K. , Billottet C. , Pujol N. , Alves I. D. , Bikfalvi A.
Published: August 2017

The chemokine receptor CXCR3 plays important roles in angiogenesis, inflammation and cancer. Activation studies and biological functions of CXCR3 are complex due to the presence of spliced isoforms. CXCR3-A is known as a pro-tumor receptor whereas CXCR3-B exhibits anti-tumor properties. Here, we focused on the conformational change of CXCR3-A and CXCR3-B after agonist or antagonist binding using Plasmon Waveguide Resonance (PWR). Agonist stimulation induced an anisotropic response with very distinct conformational changes for the two isoforms. The CXCR3 agonist bound CXCR3-A with higher affinity than CXCR3-B. Using various concentrations of SCH546738, a CXCR3 specific inhibitor, we demonstrated that low SCH546738 concentrations (≤1 nM) efficiently inhibited CXCR3-A but not CXCR3-B’s conformational change and activation. This was confirmed by both, biophysical and biological methods. Taken together, our study demonstrates differences in the behavior of CXCR3-A and CXCR3-B upon ligand activation and antagonist inhibition which may be of relevance for further studies aimed at specifically inhibiting the CXCR3A isoform.
Permanent modifications in silica produced by ion-induced high electronic excitation: experiments and atomistic simulations
Authors: Rivera Antonio , Olivares José , Prada Alejandro , Crespillo Miguel L. , Caturla María J. , Bringa Eduardo M. , Perlado José M. , Peña-Rodríguez Ovidio
Published: August 2017

The irradiation of silica with ions of specific energy larger than ~0.1 MeV/u produces very high electronic excitations that induce permanent changes in the physical, chemical and structural properties and give rise to defects (colour centres), responsible for the loss of sample transparency at specific bands. This type of irradiation leads to the generation of nanometer-sized tracks around the ion trajectory. In situ optical reflection measurements during systematic irradiation of silica samples allowed us to monitor the irradiation-induced compaction, whereas ex situ optical absorption measurements provide information on colour centre generation. In order to analyse the results, we have developed and validated an atomistic model able to quantitatively explain the experimental results. Thus, we are able to provide a consistent explanation for the size of the nanotracks, the velocity and thresholding effects for track formation, as well as, the colour centre yield per ion and the colour centre saturation density. In this work we will discuss the different processes involved in the permanent modification of silica: collective atomic motion, bond breaking, pressure-driven atom rearrangement and ultra-fast cooling. Despite the sudden lattice energy rise is the triggering and dominant step, all these processes are important for the final atomic configuration.
Physical and Pharmacokinetic Characterizations of trans-Resveratrol (t-Rev) Encapsulated with Self-Assembling Lecithin-based Mixed Polymeric Micelles (saLMPMs)
Authors: Li Tzu-Pin , Wong Wan-Ping , Chen Ling-Chun , Su Chia-Yu , Chen Lih-Geeng , Liu Der-Zen , Ho Hsiu-O , Sheu Ming-Thau
Published: August 2017

This study involved physical and pharmacokinetic characterizations of trans-resveratrol (t-Rev)-loaded saLMPMs which attempted to improve t-Rev’s pharmacokinetic profiles and bioavailability resolving hurdles limiting its potential health benefits. The optimal formulation consisted of t-Rev, lecithin, and Pluronic® P123 at 5:2:20 (t-Rev-loaded PP123 saLMPMs) provided mean particle size <200 nm, encapsulation efficiency >90%, and drug loading >15%. Compared to t-Rev solubilized with HP-β-CD, t-Rev-loaded PP123 saLMPMs enhanced t-Rev’s stability in PBS at RT, 4 °C, and 37 °C and in FBS at 37 °C, and retarded the in vitro release. Intravenous administration of t-Rev-loaded PP123 saLMPMs was able to enhance 40% absolute bioavailability and a greater portion of t-Rev was found to preferably distribute into peripheral compartment potentially establishing a therapeutic level at the targeted site. With oral administration, t-Rev-loaded LMPMs increases 2.17-fold absolute bioavailability and furnished a 3-h period of time in which the plasma concentration maintained above the desirable concentration for chemoprevention and accomplished a higher value of the dose-normalized area under the curve for potentially establishing an effective level at the target site. Therefore, intravenous and oral pharmacokinetic characteristics of t-Rev encapsulated with PP123 saLMPMs indicate that t-Rev can be translated into a clinically useful therapeutic agent.
Novel oscillator model with damping factor for plasmon induced transparency in waveguide systems
Authors: Zhao Mingzhuo , Li Hongjian , He Zhihui , Chen Zhiquan , Xu Hui , Zheng Mingfei
Published: August 2017

We introduce a novel two-oscillator model with damping factor to describe the plasmon induced transparency (PIT) in a bright-dark model plasmonic waveguide system. The damping factor γ in the model can be calculated from metal conductor damping factor γ
c
and dielectric damping factor γ
d
. We investigate the influence of geometry parameters and damping factor γ on transmission spectra as well as slow-light effects in the plasmonic waveguide system. We can find an obvious PIT phenomenon and realize a considerable slow-light effect in the double-cavities system. This work may provide guidance for optical switching and plasmon-based information processing.
Large-scale production of recombinant human lactoferrin from high-expression, marker-free transgenic cloned cows
Authors: Wang Ming , Sun Zhaolin , Yu Tian , Ding Fangrong , Li Ling , Wang Xi , Fu Mingbo , Wang Haiping , Huang Jinming , Li Ning , Dai Yunping
Published: August 2017

Human lactoferrin (hLF) is a valuable protein for pharmaceutical products and functional foods, and worldwide demand for this protein has steadily increased. However, large-scale recombinant human lactoferrin (rhLF) production using current animal bioreactor techniques is limited by the low expression of foreign proteins, the use of antibiotic resistance genes and the down-regulation of endogenous milk proteins. Here, we generated a herd of marker-free, hLF bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) transgenic cloned cows, as confirmed by Polymerase chain reaction, Southern blot and Western blot analyses. These transgenic cloned cows produced rhLF in milk at concentrations of 4.5–13.6 g/L. Moreover, the total protein content of the milk was increased. Over two hundred transgenic cloned cows were propagated by multiple ovulation and embryo transfer (MOET). A total of 400–450 g of rhLF protein, which shows similar enzymatic activity to natural hLF in iron binding and release, can be purified on a large scale from >100 L of milk per day. Our results suggested that transgenic bovine mammary bioreactors have the potential for large-scale protein production.
A rapid and sensitive turn-on fluorescent probe for ascorbic acid detection based on carbon dots–MnO2 nanocomposites
Authors: Hu Yalei , Zhang Lin , Geng Xin , Ge Jia , Liu Haifang , Li Zhaohui
Published: August 2017

A rapid turn-on fluorescent probe is proposed for the sensitive and specific determination of ascorbic acid based on carbon dots–MnO2 nanocomposites.
Reduction of intrinsic defects in hybrid perovskite films via precursor purification
Authors: Zhang Deliang , Cui Bin-Bin , Zhou Chenxiao , Li Liang , Chen Yihua , Zhou Ning , Xu Ziqi , Li Yujing , Zhou Huanping , Chen Qi
Published: August 2017

A simple chemical process was developed in a scalable manner, to reduce trap states in perovskite absorbers from the very beginning.
Dibenzazepinyl ureas as dual NMR and CD probes of helical screw-sense preference in conformationally equilibrating dynamic foldamers
Authors: Diemer Vincent , Maury Julien , Le Bailly Bryden A. F. , Webb Simon J. , Clayden Jonathan
Published: August 2017

Dibenzazepinyl ureas act as probes to allow conformational analysis of screw-sense preference in dynamic foldamers by both NMR and CD spectroscopy.
Conducting redox polymers with non-activated charge transport properties
Authors: Yang Li , Huang Xiao , Mamedov Fikret , Zhang Peng , Gogoll Adolf , Strømme Maria , Sjödin Martin
Published: August 2017

The conduction mechanism of terephthalate-substituted polythiophene is dominated by residual scattering and shows a negative dependence on temperature.
The effect of Sn doping on thermoelectric performance of n-type half-Heusler NbCoSb
Authors: Huang Lihong , Zhang Qinyong , Wang Yumei , He Ran , Shuai Jing , Zhang Jianjun , Wang Chao , Ren Zhifeng
Published: August 2017

Herein, Sn was successfully doped into the Sb site of n-type NbCoSb half-Heusler compounds to tune the carrier concentration, and a maximum ZT value of ∼0.56 was obtained at 973 K for NbCoSb1−xSnx with x = 0.2, an increase of ∼40% as compared to that of NbCoSb.
N,N-Diethyl-diaminopropane-copper(ii) oxalate self-reducible complex for the solution-based synthesis of copper nanocrystals
Authors: Togashi Takanari , Nakayama Masato , Miyake Ryosuke , Uruma Keirei , Kanaizuka Katsuhiko , Kurihara Masato
Published: August 2017

Self-reducible copper salt for the synthesis of Cu nanocrystals was prepared by mixing with insoluble copper oxalate and alkylamine.
Universal selection rule for surfactants used in miniemulsion processes for eco-friendly and high performance polymer semiconductors
Authors: Cho Jangwhan , Yoon Seongwon , Min Sim Kyu , Jin Jeong Yong , Eon Park Chan , Kwon Soon-Ki , Kim Yun-Hi , Chung Dae Sung
Published: August 2017

We demonstrate a universal polymer semiconductor colloid synthesis method to realize eco-friendly and high performance organic opto-electronic devices.
Mass spectrometry-based metabolomics to assess uptake of silver nanoparticles by Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Chavez Soria Nita G. , Montes Angelina , Bisson Mary A. , Atilla-Gokcumen G. Ekin , Aga Diana S.
Published: August 2017

Mass spectrometry reveals the biochemical changes in Arabidopsis thaliana resulting from exposure to sub-lethal concentrations of silver nanoparticles.
The salted radish takuan-zuke shows antihypertension effects in spontaneously hypertensive rats
Authors: Kumakura Kei , Kato Ryo , Kobayashi Taito , Kimura Norihisa , Takahashi Hitoe , Takahashi Asaka , Matsuoka Hiroki
Published: August 2017

Recently, we reported that the antihypertensive compound, γ-aminobutyrate (GABA), increases over time during the dehydration of salted radish, known astakuan-zuke, a popular pickle in Japan.
Organic electrolyte solutions as versatile media for the dissolution and regeneration of cellulose
Authors: Clough Matthew T.
Published: August 2017

Organic electrolyte solutions – mixtures of a (room-temperature) ionic liquid with a neutral, organic, polar co-solvent – are attracting increasing attention as solvents for the regeneration and derivatisation of cellulose.
Recent advances in the analysis of non-traditional stable isotopes by multi-collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry
Authors: Lu Dawei , Zhang Tuoya , Yang Xuezhi , Su Peng , Liu Qian , Jiang Guibin
Published: August 2017

Non-traditional stable isotopes, with no clear definition yet, generally refer to isotopes beyond C, H, O, N, and S with small variations in natural stable isotopic compositions, such as isotopes of transition and heavy metal elements.
A reduced graphene oxide@sulfur nanocomposite as a high-capacity host matrix for advanced lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Sovizi M. R. , Yaftian M. R. , Seyyedin S. T.
Published: August 2017

Reduced graphene oxide@sulfur nanocomposite as a high-capacity host matrix was prepared and characterized for advanced lithium–sulfur batteries.
Fe3O4–adenine–Zn: a novel, green, and magnetically recoverable catalyst for the synthesis of 5-substituted tetrazoles and oxidation of sulfur containing compounds
Authors: Tamoradi Taiebeh , Ghorbani-Choghamarani Arash , Ghadermazi Mohammad
Published: August 2017

A novel, green, and magnetically recoverable Fe3O4–adenine–Zn catalyst for the synthesis of 5-substituted tetrazoles and oxidation reactions.
Injectable nanoengineered stimuli-responsive hydrogels for on-demand and localized therapeutic delivery
Authors: Jalili Nima A. , Jaiswal Manish K. , Peak Charles W. , Cross Lauren M. , Gaharwar Akhilesh K.
Published: August 2017

Injectable nanocomposite hydrogels for temperature triggered drug release.
Superior wear resistance and low friction in hybrid ultrathin silicon nitride/carbon films: synergy of the interfacial chemistry and carbon microstructure
Authors: Yeo Reuben J. , Dwivedi Neeraj , Zhang Lu , Zhang Zheng , Lim Christina Y. H. , Tripathy Sudhiranjan , Bhatia Charanjit S.
Published: August 2017

A sub-10 nm hybrid SiNx/C film demonstrated remarkable wear durability under aggressive wear due to an enhanced interfacial chemistry and carbon microstructure.
High-performance flexible inverted organic light-emitting diodes by exploiting MoS2 nanopillar arrays as electron-injecting and light-coupling layers
Authors: Guo Kunping , Si Changfeng , Han Ceng , Pan Saihu , Chen Guo , Zheng Yanqiong , Zhu Wenqing , Zhang Jianhua , Sun Chang , Wei Bin
Published: August 2017

High-performance MoS2 nanopillar arrays characterized with electron injection and light extraction were facilely developed and applied in flexible inverted OLEDs.
One-step detonation-assisted synthesis of Fe3O4-Fe@BCNT composite towards high performance lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Du Liyong , Xu Chunxiao , Liu Jianjun , Lan Yazhu , Chen Pengwan
Published: August 2017

An Fe3O4-Fe@BCNT composite was successfully synthesized via detonation of a mixture of hexogen (C3H6N6O6) and ferrocene (C10H10Fe), in which bamboo-like carbon nanotubes encapsulating iron nanoparticles attached to Fe3O4 flakes (up to 58.1%) were formed.
Dynamic control over catalytic function using responsive bisthiourea catalysts
Authors: Vlatković M. , Volarić J. , Collins B. S. L. , Bernardi L. , Feringa B. L.
Published: August 2017

Responsive molecular motor-based bisthiourea organocatalysts were used in the enantioselective Henry reaction to achieve efficient dual stereocontrol in the presence of an external base.
Searching for efficient SET-LRP systems via biphasic mixtures of water with carbonates, ethers and dipolar aprotic solvents
Authors: Grama Silvia , Lejnieks Jānis , Enayati Mojtaba , Smail Rauan B. , Ding Liang , Lligadas Gerard , Monteiro Michael J. , Percec Virgil
Published: August 2017

Screening biphasic mixtures of water with carbonates, ethers and dipolar aprotic solvents to discover new SET-LRP solvent systems.
Harnessing the potential diversity of resinic diterpenes through visible light-induced sensitized oxygenation coupled to Kornblum–DeLaMare and Hock reactions
Authors: Laroche Benjamin , Nay Bastien
Published: August 2017

A biomimetic procedure for the late functionalization of resinic acids is reported, implementing photooxygenation by singlet oxygen, using visible light and a photosensitized, combined to the Kornblum–DeLaMare reaction or the Hock rearrangement.
Manufacturing a super-active carbon using fast pyrolysis char from biomass and correlation study on structural features and phenol adsorption
Authors: Hwang Hyewon , Sahin Olga , Choi Joon Weon
Published: August 2017

An in-depth study of activated carbon using fast pyrolysis char and correlation between its properties and phenol adsorption were discussed.
Catalyst-controlled polycondensation of glycerol with diacyl chlorides: linear polyesters from a trifunctional monomer
Authors: Slavko Ekaterina , Taylor Mark S.
Published: August 2017

Selective activation of diol groups by a borinic acid catalyst enables the synthesis of strictly linear polyesters from glycerol, a trifunctional monomer.
Lithiation across interconnected V2O5 nanoparticle networks
Authors: De Jesus Luis R. , Zhao Ying , Horrocks Gregory A. , Andrews Justin L. , Stein Peter , Xu Bai-Xiang , Banerjee Sarbajit
Published: August 2017

Electrochemical reactions within Li-ion batteries occur far from equilibrium and are accompanied by considerable heterogeneity. The role of interparticle connections in mediating such heterogeneity is explored.
MnCo2O4 decorated Magnéli phase titanium oxide as a carbon-free cathode for Li–O2 batteries
Authors: Cao Xuecheng , Sun Zhihui , Zheng Xiangjun , Tian Jinghua , Jin Chao , Yang Ruizhi , Li Fan , He Ping , Zhou Haoshen
Published: August 2017

The application of MnCo2O4 (MCO) decorated Ti4O7 as a carbon-free cathode for Li–O2 batteries is reported for the first time. The high performance of Ti4O7/MCO cathode is attributed to the high electronic conductivity of Ti4O7, the high electrocatalytic activity of MCO and the synergistic interaction between Ti4O7 and MCO toward ORR and OER.
Solution-processed small-molecular white organic light-emitting diodes based on a thermally activated delayed fluorescence dendrimer
Authors: Liao Xiaoqing , Yang Xin , Zhang Rong , Cheng Jiang , Li Jie , Chen Shanyong , Zhu Jiang , Li Lu
Published: August 2017

Solution-processed white OLEDs based on a blue TADF dendrimer host and an orange iridium complex dopant achieved a maximum EQE of 10.1% with low efficiency roll-off at high current density.
Compact, wideband‐printed quasi‐Yagi antenna using spiral metamaterial resonators
Authors: Aeini M. , Jarchi S. , Faraji‐Dana R.
Published: August 2017

A novel structure for size reduction and bandwidth enhancement of quasi‐Yagi antenna using spiral resonator (SR) metamaterials is presented. The basic resonance is produced through excitation of simple quasi‐Yagi antenna elements through a microstrip feedline while parasitic SR metamaterials augment bandwidth. The antenna is designed on an glass‐reinforced epoxy laminate sheets (FR4) substrate with a dielectric constant of 4.4 and a thickness of 1.6 mm. Compared to original printed quasi‐Yagi antennas, the size of the proposed quasi‐Yagi antenna is reduced by ∼53%. Simulation results show that the proposed antenna has the impedance characteristics with a frequency bandwidth of 1.43–3.97 GHz (94%) for return loss more than 10 dB and a gain of 3.4–5.2 dBi in the corresponding frequency range. The designed antenna presents an end‐fire radiation with a front‐to‐back ratio >10 dB. The antenna is fabricated, and measurement results demonstrate compactness and wide bandwidth of the antenna.
Enabling PZT bimorph actuator with passive polysilicon structure
Authors: Chen S.‐H. , Michael A. , Kwok C. Y.
Published: August 2017

For the first time, a bimorph thin film lead zirconate titanate (PZT) micro‐actuator with thick polysilicon as a passive structural layer is reported. A simple micro‐cantilever actuator consisting of 1000 µm long and 250 µm wide with 4 µm thick polysilicon structure flanked by a piezoelectric active layer on the top and bottom side has been fabricated to demonstrate such novel bimorph configuration. The actuator displays a flat profile with only 2 µm of tip deflection which indicates a balanced stress distribution in the structure. It is driven alternatively in both directions, demonstrating its unique suitability for micro‐actuation mechanisms where a passive structural layer is required to enhance the mechanical performance and reliability of the system. The static and dynamic measurements show similar characteristics for the top and bottom actuation. The actuator has a measured resonance frequency of 6.3 kHz, and displacement voltage sensitivities of 17.9 and 25.6 nm/V in the upward and downward direction, respectively.
Operation strategy for wireless‐powered heterogeneous sensor networks
Authors: Joung J. , Choi J.
Published: August 2017

A wireless‐powered heterogeneous sensor network is considered whose sensor nodes (SNs) harvest energy from a radio signal emitted from a base node (BN) communicating with user nodes and then transmit the collected information to a data collection node. In order to maximise the throughput of the sensor network under the interference limit on the BNs, an algorithm that optimises the duration of the phases and the transmit power of the SNs is proposed. By comparing to a method with a fixed time ratio for energy harvesting, the benefit of the proposed method is verified.
Measurement‐based voltage stability assessment for load areas addressing n−1 contingencies
Authors: Hu Fengkai , Sun Kai , Shi Di , Wang Zhiwei
Published: August 2017

This study proposes an online measurement‐based method for n −1 voltage stability assessment on a load area by means of an equivalent system of N  + 1 buses introduced by Hu et al. to represent N boundary buses of the load area and the external system. This method utilises real‐time synchro‐phasor measurements on N boundary buses and online state estimation on the load area to analyse n −1 sensitivities for equivalent transfer admittances and power flows by means of a modified line outage distribution factor in order to estimate the voltage stability margin of power transfer to each boundary bus under an anticipated n −1 condition. The method is demonstrated on the Northeast Power Coordinating Council 48‐machine, 140‐bus power system.
Online detection of tripped transmission line to improve wide‐area SA in power transmission system
Authors: Jena Manas Kumar , Panigrahi Bijaya Ketan , Samantaray Subhransu Ranjan
Published: August 2017

This study presents a new methodology for fault‐induced line outage detection in the power transmission network. Pre‐fault operating conditions and synchronised phasor measurements at all generator buses are used to accomplish this task. Initially, the proposed scheme divides the whole power system under study into different protection zones corresponding to generator bus (es). Furthermore, a new index termed as ‘gain in momentum’ (GIM) at each generator bus is used to identify the expected tripped region (ETR). This information helps in reducing the search space. Once the ETR is identified, online measured power flow of line connected to generator of ETR having maximum GIM is compared with the estimated post‐outage power flow of the same line. The post‐outage power flow is obtained using pre‐outage line flow and line outage distribution factor. The aforementioned power flow comparison helps in identifying the tripped transmission line. The performance of the proposed scheme is validated on the IEEE‐39 bus New England system and 246‐bus North India Grid using the Power System Simulation for Engineering software. The test results indicate that the proposed scheme is highly effective in identifying the tripped line of a transmission system.
High‐bit‐rate SOA‐based optical network unit with low seeding power that uses feedback seeding scheme
Authors: Shaltami Farhat M , Ab‐Rahman Mohammed Syuhaimi , Hwang I‐Shyan , Swedan Abdlhameed Almabrok
Published: August 2017

This study presents a method to improve the efficiency of semiconductor optical amplifier (SOA)‐based optical network units (ONUs). The method is based on the combination of remote seeding and self‐seeding schemes, which is referred to as the feedback seeding (FBS) scheme. In the proposed method, a centralised laser source provides a coherent light wave at the optical line terminal. At the ONU, a fibre Bragg grating is positioned to reflect a small percentage of the SOA output to increase seeding power. Consequently, the instauration issue is overcome by achieving coherent light power and a higher data rate. A colourless FBS‐ONU is also demonstrated in this research. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed FBS scheme can operate sufficiently with a low seeding power from the central office. In the remote seeding scheme, sensitivity increases as seeding power increases. On the other hand, in the FBS scheme, sensitivity is high and constant at seeding power values of −30 dBm and above. In this study, sensitivity is −23 dBm. The results show that the proposed scheme provides significant improvement in bit error rate performance and optical signal to noise ratio.
Multiple input multiple output radar imaging based on multidimensional linear equations and sparse signal recovery
Authors: Ma Changzheng , Yeo Tat Soon , Ng Boon Poh
Published: August 2017

Multiple input multiple output (MIMO) radar forms large virtual aperture and improves the cross‐range resolution of radar imaging. Sparse signal recovery algorithms can be used to improve image quality of target with sparse property in spatial domain. Conventional sparse signal recovery‐based MIMO radar imaging method rearranges the received two‐dimensional (2D) or 3D signals into a vector, then linear equations describing the relation between the received signal and the reflectivity of the scatterers are solved. However, this method occupies huge memory spaces and increases the computational load. In this study, by introducing synthetic codes, multidimensional linear equations of MIMO radar imaging are derived, which occupy less memory spaces and cost less computationally. A L1 L0 norms homotopy sparse signal recovery algorithm for multidimensional linear equations is used to recover the image. Simulation results verify the high efficiency of using multidimensional linear equations.
Jittered chirp sequence waveform in combination with CS‐based unambiguous Doppler processing for automotive frequency‐modulated continuous wave radar
Authors: Wang Yuankai , Xiao Zelong , Wu Li , Xu Jianzhong , Zhao Huichang
Published: August 2017

The chirp sequence waveform is one of the most commonly used waveforms for automotive frequency‐modulated continuous wave radars. When a chirp sequence waveform is applied, the range–Doppler processing method based on two‐dimensional fast Fourier transform can be used to extract the range and velocity parameters of multiple targets from the beat signals. However, conventional chirp sequence waveforms suffer from the Doppler ambiguity problem, which results in ambiguities in velocity measurement. In this study, the authors propose a novel jittered chirp sequence waveform. In the proposed waveform, the initial times of the chirps are randomly jittered. According to the compressed sensing theory, they establish the parameter design principle for the new waveform, and apply sparse recovery method to achieve unambiguous Doppler processing. Subspace pursuit algorithm is recommended as the suitable sparse recovery method for Doppler processing due to its low complexity and stable recovery performance. The effectiveness of the proposed waveform and its corresponding signal processing method are verified by simulation and experimental results.
Fungal Dihydroxynaphthalene-Melanin: Diversity-Oriented Biosynthesis through Enzymatic and Non-enzymatic Transformations
Authors: Müller Michael , Husain Syed
Published: August 2017

Tetrahydroxynaphthalene reductase (T4HNR) from Magnaporthe grisea catalyzes the reduction of polyhydroxynaphthalenes, hydroxynaphthoquinones, and 1,4-diketones, with extensive ramifications for the biosynthesis of (shunt) metabolites related to 1,8-dihydroxynaphthalene (DHN)-melanin biosynthesis. Hence, an extended model for DHN-melanin biosynthesis has been developed which is based on a screening hypothesis involving non-enzymatic transformations such as oxidations and tautomerism. This has led to the broadening of the functions of several short-chain dehydrogenases/reductases (SDRs) capable of reducing polyhydroxyanthracenes, polyhydroxynaphthalenes, and polyhydroxybenzenes. Our work, broadening the scope of enzymatic dearomatization reactions, provides access to the biocatalytic synthesis of a variety of natural and natural-like products. Furthermore, the results described in this account provide the basis for the identification of other SDRs amenable to reducing aromatic compounds, and thus enable the identification of biosynthetic gene clusters most likely involved in the biosynthesis of aromatic polyketides.

1 Introduction

2 Biosynthesis of 1,8-Dihydroxynaphthalene (DHN)

3 Biosynthesis of Shunt Metabolites and the Origin of Molecular Diversity

3.1 Role of Spontaneous Non-enzymatic Oxidations

3.2 Role of T4HNR and T3HNR

3.3 Role of Tautomerism in the Biosynthesis of (Shunt) Metabolites

4 Extended Melanin Biosynthesis: A Screening Hypothesis

5 Useful Outcomes of the Newly Identified Melanin Biosynthetic Pathway

5.1 NADP+ Regeneration Using Lawsone as Mediator

5.2 Anthrahydroquinone as an Intermediate in the Biosynthesis of Chrysophanol and Other Anthraquinone-Derived Products

5.3 Combination of T3HNR and GDH To Access trans-Ketodiols

5.4 Phloroglucinol Reductases (PGRs) To Dearomatize Monomeric Phenols

6 Conclusion
Penile Reconstruction with Skin Grafts and Dermal Matrices: Indications and Management
Authors: Triana Junco Paloma , Dore Mariela , Nuñez Cerezo Vanesa , Jimenez Gomez Javier , Miguel Ferrero Miriam , Díaz González Mercedes , Lopez-Pereira Pedro , Lopez-Gutierrez Juan
Published: August 2017

Introduction The penis eventually needs specific cutaneous coverage in the context of reconstructive procedures following trauma or congenital anomalies. Local flaps are the first choice but are not always available after multiple previous procedures. In these cases, skin graft and dermal matrices should be considered.

Materials and Methods This study was a retrospective review of the past 4 years of four patients with severe loss of penile shaft skin who underwent skin reconstruction. Dermal matrices and skin grafts were utilized. Dermal matrices were placed for a median of 4.5 weeks (3.0–6.0 weeks). The skin graft was harvested from the inner thigh region for split-thickness skin graft (STSG) and the inguinal region for full-thickness skin graft (FTSG).

Results The four patients presented with complete loss of skin in the penile shaft. One patient had a vesical exstrophy, one had a buried penis with only one corpus cavernosum, one had a wide congenital lymphedema of the genitalia, and one had a lack of skin following circumcision at home. They underwent reconstruction with three patients undergoing split-thickness skin graft; two dermal matrices; and one full-thickness graft, respectively, thereby achieving a good cosmetic and functional result. There were no complications, and all the patients successfully accepted the graft.

Conclusion Dermal matrices and skin grafts may serve as effective tools in the management of severe penile skin defects unable to be covered with local flaps.