bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effective case/infection ratio of poliomyelitis in vaccinated populations
Authors: BENCSKÓ G. , FERENCI T.
Published: February 2016

Recent polio outbreaks in Syria and Ukraine, and isolation of poliovirus from asymptomatic carriers in Israel have raised concerns that polio might endanger Europe. We devised a model to calculate the time needed to detect the first case should the disease be imported into Europe, taking the effect of vaccine coverage – both from inactivated and oral polio vaccines, also considering their differences – on the length of silent transmission into account by deriving an ‘effective’ case/infection ratio that is applicable for vaccinated populations. Using vaccine coverage data and the newly developed model, the relationship between this ratio and vaccine coverage is derived theoretically and is also numerically determined for European countries. This shows that unnoticed transmission is longer for countries with higher vaccine coverage and a higher proportion of IPV-vaccinated individuals among those vaccinated. Assuming borderline transmission (R = 1·1), the expected time to detect the first case is between 326 days and 512 days in different countries, with the number of infected individuals between 235 and 1439. Imperfect surveillance further increases these numbers, especially the number of infected until detection. While longer silent transmission does not increase the number of clinical diseases, it can make the application of traditional outbreak response methods more complicated, among others.
WHERE DOES AVICENNA DEMONSTRATE THE EXISTENCE OF GOD?
Authors: De Haan Daniel D.
Published: February 2016

This study examines a number of different answers to the question: where does Avicenna demonstrate the existence of God within the Metaphysics of the Healing? Many interpreters have contended that there is an argument for God's existence in Metaphysics of the Healing I.6–7. In this study I show that such views are incorrect and that the only argument for God's existence in the Metaphysics of the Healing is found in VIII.1–3. My own interpretation relies upon a careful consideration of the scientific order and first principles of the Metaphysics of the Healing, paying attention to Avicenna's own explicit statements concerning the goals and intentions of different books and chapters, and a close analysis of the structure of the different arguments found in the relevant texts of the Metaphysics of the Healing. I conclude that Avicenna's explicit goal in I.6–7 is to establish the properties that belong to necessary existence and possible existence, which consists, not in a demonstration of God's existence, but in a dialectical treatment of the first principles of metaphysics.
Survey of Emergency Department Chemical Hazard Preparedness in Michigan, USA: A Seven Year Comparison
Authors: Belsky Justin B. , Klausner Howard A. , Karson Jeffrey , Dunne Robert B.
Published: February 2016

Objective

To compare the state of chemical hazard preparedness in emergency departments (EDs) in Michigan, USA between 2005 and 2012.

Methods

This was a longitudinal study involving a 30 question survey sent to ED directors at each hospital listed in the Michigan College of Emergency Physician (MCEP) Directory in 2005 and in 2012. The surveys contained questions relating to chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive events with a focus on hazardous material capabilities.

Results

One hundred twelve of 139 EDs responded to the 2005 survey compared to 99/136 in 2012. Ten of 27 responses were statistically significant, all favoring an enhancement in disaster preparedness in 2012 when compared to 2005. Questions with improvement included: EDs with employees participating in the Michigan voluntary registry; EDs with decontamination rooms; MARK 1 and cyanide kits available; those planning to use dry decontamination, powered air purifiers, surgical masks, chemical gloves, and surgical gowns; and those wishing for better coordination with local and regional resources. Forty-two percent of EDs in 2012 had greater than one-half of their staff trained in decontamination and 81% of respondents wished for more training opportunities in disaster preparedness. Eighty-four percent of respondents believed that they were more prepared in disaster preparedness in 2012 versus seven years prior.

Conclusions

Emergency departments in Michigan have made significant advances in chemical hazard preparedness between 2005 and 2012 based on survey responses. Despite these improvements, staff training in decontamination and hazardous material events remains a weakness among EDs in the state of Michigan.

BelskyJB, KlausnerHA, KarsonJ, DunneRB. Survey of emergency department chemical hazard preparedness in Michigan, USA: a seven year comparison. Prehosp Disaster Med. 2016;31(2):224–227.
PINNING ON A DEFECT LINE: CHARACTERIZATION OF MARGINAL DISORDER RELEVANCE AND SHARP ASYMPTOTICS FOR THE CRITICAL POINT SHIFT
Authors: Berger Quentin , Lacoin Hubert
Published: February 2016

The effect of disorder for pinning models is a subject which has attracted much attention in theoretical physics and rigorous mathematical physics. A peculiar point of interest is the question of coincidence of the quenched and annealed critical point for a small amount of disorder. The question has been mathematically settled in most cases in the last few years, giving in particular a rigorous validation of the Harris criterion on disorder relevance. However, the marginal case, where the return probability exponent is equal to $1/2$, that is, where the interarrival law of the renewal process is given by $\text{K}(n)=n^{-3/2}\unicode[STIX]{x1D719}(n)$ where $\unicode[STIX]{x1D719}$ is a slowly varying function, has been left partially open. In this paper, we give a complete answer to the question by proving a simple necessary and sufficient criterion on the return probability for disorder relevance, which confirms earlier predictions from the literature. Moreover, we also provide sharp asymptotics on the critical point shift: in the case of the pinning of a one-dimensional simple random walk, the shift of the critical point satisfies the following high temperature asymptotics $$\begin{eqnarray}\lim _{\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}\rightarrow 0}\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}^{2}\log h_{c}(\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD})=-\frac{\unicode[STIX]{x1D70B}}{2}.\end{eqnarray}$$ This gives a rigorous proof to a claim of Derrida, Hakim and Vannimenus (J. Stat. Phys. 66 (1992), 1189–1213).
Could Thinning of High Clouds Combat Climate Change?
Authors: Stanley Sarah
Published: February 2016

A climate engineering technique that lets more heat escape from the atmosphere could avoid water cycle suppression associated with other radiation management approaches.
Subtle Seismic Movements May Help Forecast Large Earthquakes
Authors: Wendel JoAnna
Published: February 2016

Where a plate of Earth's crust slides under another and when frequent episodes of plate slippage occur without noticeable earthquakes, large temblors will more likely strike, a new study finds.
Cdh1 inhibits WWP2-mediated ubiquitination of PTEN to suppress tumorigenesis in an APC-independent manner
Authors: Liu Jia , Wan Lixin , Liu Jing , Yuan Zhu , Zhang Jinfang , Guo Jianfeng , Malumbres Marcos , Liu Jiankang , Zou Weiguo , Wei Wenyi
Published: February 2016

Anaphase-promoting complex/cyclosome/Cdh1 is a multi-subunit ubiquitin E3 ligase that drives M to G1 cell cycle progression through primarily earmarking various substrates for ubiquitination and subsequent degradation by the 26S proteasome. Notably, emerging evidence suggested that Cdh1 could also function in various cellular processes independent of anaphase-promoting complex/cyclosome. To this end, we recently identified an anaphase-promoting complex/cyclosome-independent function of Cdh1 in modulating osteoblast differentiation through activating Smurf1, one of the NEDD4 family of HECT domain-containing E3 ligases. However, it remains largely unknown whether Cdh1 could exert its tumor suppressor role through similarly modulating the E3 ligase activities of other NEDD4 family members, most of which have characterized important roles in tumorigenesis. Here we report that in various tumor cells, Cdh1, conversely, suppresses the E3 ligase activity of WWP2, another NEDD4 family protein, in an anaphase-promoting complex/cyclosome-independent manner. As such, loss of Cdh1 activates WWP2, leading to reduced abundance of WWP2 substrates including PTEN, which subsequently activates PI3K/Akt oncogenic signaling to facilitate tumorigenesis. This study expands the non-anaphase-promoting complex/cyclosome function of Cdh1 in regulating the NEDD4 family E3 ligases, and further suggested that enhancing Cdh1 to inhibit the E3 ligase activity of WWP2 could be a promising strategy for treating human cancers.
Affinity and competition for TBP are molecular determinants of gene expression noise
Authors: Ravarani Charles N. J. , Chalancon Guilhem , Breker Michal , de Groot Natalia Sanchez , Babu M. Madan
Published: February 2016

Cell-to-cell variation in gene expression levels (noise) generates phenotypic diversity and is an important phenomenon in evolution, development and disease. TATA-box binding protein (TBP) is an essential factor that is required at virtually every eukaryotic promoter to initiate transcription. While the presence of a TATA-box motif in the promoter has been strongly linked with noise, the molecular mechanism driving this relationship is less well understood. Through an integrated analysis of multiple large-scale data sets, computer simulation and experimental validation in yeast, we provide molecular insights into how noise arises as an emergent property of variable binding affinity of TBP for different promoter sequences, competition between interaction partners to bind the same surface on TBP (to either promote or disrupt transcription initiation) and variable residence times of TBP complexes at a promoter. These determinants may be fine-tuned under different conditions and during evolution to modulate eukaryotic gene expression noise.
A light-driven three-dimensional plasmonic nanosystem that translates molecular motion into reversible chiroptical function
Authors: Kuzyk Anton , Yang Yangyang , Duan Xiaoyang , Stoll Simon , Govorov Alexander O. , Sugiyama Hiroshi , Endo Masayuki , Liu Na
Published: February 2016

Nature has developed striking light-powered proteins such as bacteriorhodopsin, which can convert light energy into conformational changes for biological functions. Such natural machines are a great source of inspiration for creation of their synthetic analogues. However, synthetic molecular machines typically operate at the nanometre scale or below. Translating controlled operation of individual molecular machines to a larger dimension, for example, to 10–100 nm, which features many practical applications, is highly important but remains challenging. Here we demonstrate a light-driven plasmonic nanosystem that can amplify the molecular motion of azobenzene through the host nanostructure and consequently translate it into reversible chiroptical function with large amplitude modulation. Light is exploited as both energy source and information probe. Our plasmonic nanosystem bears unique features of optical addressability, reversibility and modulability, which are crucial for developing all-optical molecular devices with desired functionalities.
A collection of non-human primate computed tomography scans housed in MorphoSource, a repository for 3D data
Authors: Copes Lynn E. , Lucas Lynn M. , Thostenson James O. , Hoekstra Hopi E. , Boyer Doug M.
Published: February 2016

A dataset of high-resolution microCT scans of primate skulls (crania and mandibles) and certain postcranial elements was collected to address questions about primate skull morphology. The sample consists of 489 scans taken from 431 specimens, representing 59 species of most Primate families. These data have transformative reuse potential as such datasets are necessary for conducting high power research into primate evolution, but require significant time and funding to collect. Similar datasets were previously only available to select research groups across the world. The physical specimens are vouchered at Harvard’s Museum of Comparative Zoology. The data collection took place at the Center for Nanoscale Systems at Harvard. The dataset is archived on MorphoSource.org. Though this is the largest high fidelity comparative dataset yet available, its provisioning on a web archive that allows unlimited researcher contributions promises a future with vastly increased digital collections available at researchers’ finger tips.
Quantitative phospho-proteomics reveals the Plasmodium merozoite triggers pre-invasion host kinase modification of the red cell cytoskeleton
Authors: Zuccala Elizabeth S. , Satchwell Timothy J. , Angrisano Fiona , Tan Yan Hong , Wilson Marieangela C. , Heesom Kate J. , Baum Jake
Published: February 2016

The invasive blood-stage malaria parasite – the merozoite – induces rapid morphological changes to the target erythrocyte during entry. However, evidence for active molecular changes in the host cell that accompany merozoite invasion is lacking. Here, we use invasion inhibition assays, erythrocyte resealing and high-definition imaging to explore red cell responses during invasion. We show that although merozoite entry does not involve erythrocyte actin reorganisation, it does require ATP to complete the process. Towards dissecting the ATP requirement, we present an in depth quantitative phospho-proteomic analysis of the erythrocyte during each stage of invasion. Specifically, we demonstrate extensive increased phosphorylation of erythrocyte proteins on merozoite attachment, including modification of the cytoskeletal proteins beta-spectrin and PIEZO1. The association with merozoite contact but not active entry demonstrates that parasite-dependent phosphorylation is mediated by host-cell kinase activity. This provides the first evidence that the erythrocyte is stimulated to respond to early invasion events through molecular changes in its membrane architecture.
Phase transition in multimode nonlinear parity-time-symmetric waveguide couplers
Authors: Walasik Wiktor , Litchinitser Natalia M.
Published: February 2016

Parity-time-symmetric ("Equation missing"-symmetric) optical waveguide couplers offer new possibilities for fast, ultracompact, configurable, all-optical signal processing. Here, we study nonlinear properties of finite-size multimode "Equation missing"-symmetric couplers and predict the nonlinear oscillatory dynamics that can be controlled by three parameters: input light intensity, gain and loss amplitude and input beam profile. Moreover, we show that this dynamics is driven by a "Equation missing" transition triggered by nonlinearity in these structures and we demonstrate that with the increase of the number of dimers in the system, the transition threshold decreases and converges to the value corresponding to an infinite array. Finally, we present a variety of periodic intensity patterns that can be formed in these couplers depending on the initial excitation.
Voltage divider effect for the improvement of variability and endurance of
TaOx memristor
Authors: Kim Kyung Min , Yang J. Joshua , Strachan John Paul , Grafals Emmanuelle Merced , Ge Ning , Melendez Noraica Davila , Li Zhiyong , Williams R. Stanley
Published: February 2016

The impact of a series resistor (RS) on the variability and endurance
performance of memristor was studied in the TaOx memristive system. A
dynamic voltage divider between the RS and memristor during both the set
and the reset switching cycles can suppress the inherent irregularity of the voltage
dropped on the memristor, resulting in a greatly reduced switching variability. By
selecting the proper resistance value of RS for the set and reset cycles
respectively, we observed a dramatically improved endurance of the TaOx
memristor. Such a voltage divider effect can thus be critical for the memristor
applications that require low variability, high endurance and fast speed.
Graphene Oxide Quantum Dots Covalently Functionalized PVDF Membrane with Significantly-Enhanced Bactericidal and Antibiofouling Performances
Authors: Zeng Zhiping , Yu Dingshan , He Ziming , Liu Jing , Xiao Fang-Xing , Zhang Yan , Wang Rong , Bhattacharyya Dibakar , Tan Timothy Thatt Yang
Published: February 2016

Covalent bonding of graphene oxide quantum dots (GOQDs) onto amino modified polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membrane has generated a new type of nano-carbon functionalized membrane with significantly enhanced antibacterial and antibiofouling properties. A continuous filtration test using E. coli containing feedwater shows that the relative flux drop over GOQDs modified PVDF is 23%, which is significantly lower than those over pristine PVDF (86%) and GO-sheet modified PVDF (62%) after 10 h of filtration. The presence of GOQD coating layer effectively inactivates E. coli and S. aureus cells and prevents the biofilm formation on the membrane surface, producing excellent antimicrobial activity and potentially antibiofouling capability, more superior than those of previously reported two-dimensional GO sheets and one-dimensional CNTs modified membranes. The distinctive antimicrobial and antibiofouling performances could be attributed to the unique structure and uniform dispersion of GOQDs, enabling the exposure of a larger fraction of active edges and facilitating the formation of oxidation stress. Furthermore, GOQDs modified membrane possesses satisfying long-term stability and durability due to the strong covalent interaction between PVDF and GOQDs. This study opens up a new synthetic avenue in the fabrication of efficient surface-functionalized polymer membranes for potential waste water treatment and biomolecules separation.
Raman-Enhanced Phase-Sensitive Fibre Optical Parametric Amplifier
Authors: Fu Xuelei , Guo Xiaojie , Shu Chester
Published: February 2016

Phase-sensitive amplification is of great research interest owing to its potential in noiseless amplification. One key feature in a phase-sensitive amplifier is the gain extinction ratio defined as the ratio of the maximum to the minimum gains. It quantifies the capability of the amplifier in performing low-noise amplification for high phase-sensitive gain. Considering a phase-sensitive fibre optical parametric amplifier for linear amplification, the gain extinction ratio increases with the phase-insensitive parametric gain achieved from the same pump. In this work, we use backward Raman amplification to increase the phase-insensitive parametric gain, which in turn improves the phase-sensitive operation. Using a 955 mW Raman pump, the gain extinction ratio is increased by 9.2 dB. The improvement in the maximum phase-sensitive gain is 18.7 dB. This scheme can significantly boost the performance of phase-sensitive amplification in a spectral range where the parametric pump is not sufficiently strong but broadband Raman amplification is available.
Enhancement of oxidation resistance via a self-healing boron carbide coating on diamond particles
Authors: Sun Youhong , Meng Qingnan , Qian Ming , Liu Baochang , Gao Ke , Ma Yinlong , Wen Mao , Zheng Weitao
Published: February 2016

A boron carbide coating was applied to diamond particles by heating the particles in a powder mixture consisting of H3BO3, B and Mg. The composition, bond state and coverage fraction of the boron carbide coating on the diamond particles were investigated. The boron carbide coating prefers to grow on the diamond (100) surface than on the diamond (111) surface. A stoichiometric B4C coating completely covered the diamond particle after maintaining the raw mixture at 1200 °C for 2 h. The contribution of the boron carbide coating to the oxidation resistance enhancement of the diamond particles was investigated. During annealing of the coated diamond in air, the priory formed B2O3, which exhibits a self-healing property, as an oxygen barrier layer, which protected the diamond from oxidation. The formation temperature of B2O3 is dependent on the amorphous boron carbide content. The coating on the diamond provided effective protection of the diamond against oxidation by heating in air at 1000 °C for 1 h. Furthermore, the presence of the boron carbide coating also contributed to the maintenance of the static compressive strength during the annealing of diamond in air.
Low-dose carbon-based nanoparticle-induced effects in A549 lung cells determined by biospectroscopy are associated with increases in genomic methylation
Authors: Li Junyi , Tian Meiping , Cui Li , Dwyer John , Fullwood Nigel J. , Shen Heqing , Martin Francis L.
Published: February 2016

Nanotechnology has introduced many manufactured carbon-based nanoparticles (CNPs) into our environment, generating a debate into their risks and benefits. Numerous nanotoxicology investigations have been carried and nanoparticle-induced toxic effects have been reported. However, there remain gaps in our knowledge, primarily regarding mechanism. Herein, we assessed the global alterations induced by CNPs in A549 lung cells using biospectroscopy techniques, including attenuated total reflection Fourier-transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). A549 cells were treated with fullerene (C60), long or short multi-walled carbon nanotubes, or single-walled carbon nanotubes at concentrations of 0.1 mg/L, 0.01 mg/L and 0.001 mg/L. Exposed cells were then analysed by ATR-FTIR spectroscopy and SERS. Spectra were pre-processed via computational analysis and information on biochemical alterations in exposed cells were identified. Additionally, global DNA methylation levels in cells exposed to CNPs at 0.1 mg/L were determined using HPLC-MS and genetic regulators (for DNA methylation) were checked by quantitative real-time RT-PCR. It was found that CNPs exert marked effects in A549 cells and also contribute to increases in global DNA methylation. For the first time, this study highlights that real-world levels of nanoparticles can alter the methylome of exposed cells; this could have enormous implications for their regulatory assessment.
Diagnostic and Prognostic Value of Circulating Tumor Cells in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wu Xiang-Lei , Tu Qian , Faure Gilbert , Gallet Patrice , Kohler Chantal , Bittencourt Marcelo De Carvalho
Published: February 2016

Several techniques have been developed to detect circulating tumor cells (CTC) in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), but their diagnostic and prognostic value are not yet fully established. A computerized retrieval of literatures was conducted without time restrictions using the electronic database in December 2014. Diagnostic accuracy variables were pooled and analyzed by the Meta-DiSc software. Engauge Digitizer and Stata software were used for pooled survival analysis. Twenty-two retrieved studies were eligible for systematic review, of which 9 conformed for the diagnostic test meta-analysis and 5 for the prognostic analysis. Subgroup analysis showed 24.6% pooled sensitivity and 100% pooled specificity of detections by using positive selection strategy, which moreover presented low heterogeneity. The presence of CTC was significantly associated with shorter disease free survival (DFS, HR 4.62, 95% CI 2.51–8.52). In conclusion, current evidence identifies the CTC detection assay as an extremely specific, but low sensitive test in HNSCC. Also, the presence of CTC indicates a worse DFS.
The Effect of Oxytocin on Third-Party Altruistic Decisions in Unfair Situations: An fMRI Study
Authors: Hu Yang , Scheele Dirk , Becker Benjamin , Voos Georg , David Bastian , Hurlemann René , Weber Bernd
Published: February 2016

Humans display an intriguing propensity to help the victim of social norm violations or punish the violators which require theory-of-mind (ToM)/mentalizing abilities. The hypothalamic peptide oxytocin (OXT) has been implicated in modulating various pro-social behaviors/perception including trust, cooperation and empathy. However, it is still elusive whether OXT also influences neural responses during third-party altruistic decisions, especially in ToM-related brain regions such as the temporo-parietal junction (TPJ). To address this question, we conducted a pharmacological functional magnetic resonance imaging experiment with healthy male participants in a randomized, double-blind, cross-over design. After the intranasal administration synthetic OXT (OXTIN) or placebo (PLC), participants could transfer money from their own endowment to either punish a norm violator or help the victim. In some trials, participants observed the decisions made by a computer. Behaviorally, participants under OXTIN showed a trend to accelerate altruistic decisions. At the neural level, we observed a strong three-way interaction between drug treatment (OXT/PLC), agency (self/computer) and decision (help/punish), such that OXTIN selectively enhanced activity in the left TPJ during observations of others being helped by the computer. Collectively, our findings indicate that OXT enhances prosocial-relevant perception by increasing ToM-related neural activations.
A Novel COL4A4 Mutation Identified in a Chinese Family with Thin Basement Membrane Nephropathy
Authors: Xu Yan , Guo Min , Dong Hui , Jiang Wei , Ma Ruixia , Liu Shiguo , Li Shenqian
Published: February 2016

Thin basement membrane nephropathy (TBMN) is often attributable to mutations in the COL4A3 or COL4A4 genes that encode the α3 and α4 chains of type IV collagen, respectively, a major structural protein in the glomerular basement membrane. The aim of this study was to explore a new disease-related genetic mutation associated with the clinical phenotype observed in a Chinese Han family with autosomal dominant TBMN. We conducted a clinical and genetic study comprising seven members of this TBMN family. Mutation screening for COL4A3 and COL4A4 was carried out by direct sequencing. The RNA sequences associated with both proteins were also analyzed with reverse transcription PCR and TA cloning. The result showed that every affected patient had a novel heterozygous splicing mutation in COL4A4 (c.1459 + 1G > A), which led to the elimination of the entire exon 21 from the COL4A4 cDNA and resulted in the direct splicing of exons 20 and 22. This in turn caused a frameshift mutation after exon 20 in the open reading frame of COL4A4. In conclusion, we describe a novel splicing mutation in COL4A4 that results in TBMN. This analysis increases our understanding of TBMN phenotype-genotype correlations, which should facilitate more accurate diagnosis and prenatal diagnosis of TBMN.
Transcriptome analysis of Glomus mosseae/Medicago sativa mycorrhiza on atrazine stress
Authors: Song Fuqiang , Li Jize , Fan Xiaoxu , Zhang Quan , Chang Wei , Yang Fengshan , Geng Gui
Published: February 2016

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) protect host plants against diverse biotic and abiotic stresses and promote biodegradation of various contaminants. In this study effect of Glomus mosseae/Medicago sativa mycorrhiza on atrazine degradation was investigated. It was observed that the atrazine degradation rates with any addition level in mycorrhizal treatments were all significantly higher than those in non- mycorrhizal treatments. When atrazine was applied at 20 mg kg−1, the removal efficiency was up to 74.65%. Therefore, G. mosseae can be considered as ideal inhabitants of technical installations to facilitate phytoremediation. Furthermore, a total of 10.4 Gb was used for de novo transcriptome assembly, resulting in a comprehensive data set for the identification of genes corresponding to atrazine stress in the AM association. After comparative analysis with edgeR, a total of 2,060 differential expressed genes were identified, including 570 up-regulated genes and 1490 down-regulated genes. After excluding ‘function unknown’ and ‘general function predictions only’ genes, 172 up-regulated genes were obtained. The differentially expressed genes in AM association with and without atrazine stress were associated with molecular processes/other proteins, zinc finger protein, intracellular/extracellular enzymes, structural proteins, anti-stress/anti-disease protein, electron transport-related protein and plant growth associated protein. Our results not only prove AMF has important ecological significance on atrazine degradation but also provide evidence for the molecular mechanisms of atrazine degradation by AMF.
Correction: Corrigendum: Direct Observation of Long Electron-Hole Diffusion Distance in CH3NH3PbI3 Perovskite Thin Film
Authors: Li Yu , Yan Weibo , Li Yunlong , Wang Shufeng , Wang Wei , Bian Zuqiang , Xiao Lixin , Gong Qihuang
Published: February 2016

In high performance perovskite based solar cells, CH3NH3PbI3 is the key material. We carried out a study on charge diffusion in spin-coated CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite thin film by transient fluorescent spectroscopy. A thickness-dependent fluorescent lifetime was found. By coating the film with an electron or hole transfer layer, [6,6]-phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) or 2,2′,7,7′-tetrakis(N,N-di-p-methoxyphenylamine)-9,9′-spirobifluorene (Spiro-OMeTAD) respectively, we observed the charge transfer directly through the fluorescence quenching. One-dimensional diffusion model was applied to obtain long charge diffusion distances in thick films, which is ~1.7 μm for electrons and up to ~6.3 μm for holes. Short diffusion distance of few hundreds of nanometer was also observed in thin film. This thickness dependent charge diffusion explained the formerly reported short charge diffusion distance (~100 nm) in films and resolved its confliction to thick working layer (300–500 nm) in real devices. This study presents direct support to the high performance perovskite solar cells and will benefit the devices’ design.
Preparation and investigation of nano-thick FTO/Ag/FTO multilayer transparent electrodes with high figure of merit
Authors: Yu Shihui , Li Lingxia , Lyu Xiaosong , Zhang Weifeng
Published: February 2016

In order to improve the conductivity of the single–layered nano-thick F doped SnO2 (FTO) thin films, an Ag mid–layer is embedded between the FTO layers. In our work, the effects of mid–layer Ag and top FTO layer on the structural, electrical and optical properties of FTO/Ag/FTO multilayered composite structures deposited on quartz glass substrates by magnetron sputtering at 100 °C have been investigated. As the thickness of Ag mid–layer increases, the resistivity decreases. As the top FTO layer thickness increases, the resistivity increases. The highest value of figure of merit φTC is 7.8 × 10−2 Ω−1 for the FTO (20 nm)/Ag (7 nm)/FTO (30 nm) multilayers, while the average optical transmittance is 95.5% in the visible range of wavelengths and the resistivity is 8.8 × 10−5 Ω·cm. In addition, we also describe the influence of Ag and top FTO layer thickness on structural, electrical and optical properties of the nano-thick FTO (20 nm)/Ag/FTO multilayers and the mechanism of the changes of electrical and optical properties at different Ag and top FTO layer thicknesses.
Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles and characterization of their inhibitory effects on AGEs formation using biophysical techniques
Authors: Ashraf Jalaluddin M. , Ansari Mohammad Azam , Khan Haris M. , Alzohairy Mohammad A. , Choi Inho
Published: February 2016

Advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) resulting from non-enzymatic glycation are one of the major factors implicated in secondary complications of diabetes. Scientists are focusing on discovering new compounds that may be used as potential AGEs inhibitors without affecting the normal structure and function of biomolecules. A number of natural and synthetic compounds have been proposed as AGE inhibitors. In this study, we investigated the inhibitory effects of AgNPs (silver nanoparticles) in AGEs formation. AgNPs (~30.5 nm) synthesized from Aloe Vera leaf extract were characterized using UV-Vis spectroscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), high resolution-transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and dynamic light scattering (DLS) techniques. The inhibitory effects of AgNPs on AGEs formation were evaluated by investigating the degree of reactivity of free amino groups (lysine and arginine residues), protein-bound carbonyl and carboxymethyl lysine (CML) content and the effects on protein structure using various physicochemical techniques. The results showed that AgNPs significantly inhibit AGEs formation in a concentration dependent manner and that AgNPs have a positive effect on protein structure. These findings strongly suggest that AgNPs may play a therapeutic role in diabetes-related complications.
Erratum: Griffiths phase behaviour in a frustrated antiferromagnetic intermetallic compound
Authors: Ghosh Krishanu , Mazumdar Chandan , Ranganathan R. , Mukherjee S.
Published: February 2016

The rare coexistence of a Griffiths phase (GP) and a geometrically frustrated antiferromagnetism in the non-stoichiometric intermetallic compound GdFe0.17Sn2 (the paramagnetic Weiss temperature θp ~ −59 K) is reported in this work. The compound forms in the Cmcm space group with large structural anisotropy (b/c ~ 4). Interestingly, all the atoms in the unit cell possess the same point group symmetry (Wycoff position 4c), which is rather rare. The frustration parameter, f = |θp|/TN has been established as 3.6, with the Néel temperature TN and Griffiths temperature TG being 16.5 and 32 K, respectively. The TG has been determined from the heat capacity measurement and also from the magnetocaloric effect (MCE). It is also shown that substantial difference in GP region may exist between zero field and field cooled measurements - a fact hitherto not emphasized so far.
Exome sequencing in dementia with Lewy bodies
Authors: Keogh M J , Kurzawa-Akanbi M , Griffin H , Douroudis K , Ayers K L , Hussein R I , Hudson G , Pyle A , Cordell H J , Attems J , McKeith I G , O'Brien J T , Burn D J , Morris C M , Thomas A J , Chinnery P F
Published: February 2016

Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) is the second most common form of degenerative dementia. Siblings of affected individuals are at greater risk of developing DLB, but little is known about the underlying genetic basis of the disease. We set out to determine whether mutations in known highly penetrant neurodegenerative disease genes are found in patients with DLB. Whole-exome sequencing was performed on 91 neuropathologically confirmed cases of DLB, supplemented by independent APOE genotyping. Genetic variants were classified using established criteria, and additional neuropathological examination was performed for putative mutation carriers. Likely pathogenic variants previously described as causing monogenic forms of neurodegenerative disease were found in 4.4% of patients with DLB. The APOE ɛ4 allele increased the risk of disease (P=0.0001), conferred a shorter disease duration (P=0.043) and earlier age of death (P=0.0015). In conclusion, although known pathogenic mutations in neurodegenerative disease genes are uncommon in DLB, known genetic risk factors are present in >60% of cases. APOE ɛ4 not only modifies disease risk, but also modulates the rate of disease progression. The reduced penetrance of reported pathogenic alleles explains the lack of a family history in most patients, and the presence of variants previously described as causing frontotemporal dementia suggests a mechanistic overlap between DLB and other neurodegenerative diseases.
Reversible polyphenylacetylene helix conversion driven by a thermoresponsive rotaxane switch in the solid state
Authors: Zhu Nan , Nakazono Kazuko , Takata Toshikazu
Published: February 2016

The reversible helical pitch change of polyphenylacetylenes by a thermoresponsive trichloroacetate-containing rotaxane switch inserted into the side chain was demonstrated through an accompanying clear color change.
Magnetic resonance energy and topological resonance energy
Authors: Aihara Jun-ichi
Published: February 2016

Magnetic resonance energy (MRE) derived from the ring-current diamagnetic susceptibility was examined in conjunction with topological resonance energy (TRE).
Kinetics of the ClO + HO2 reaction over the temperature range T = 210–298 K
Authors: Ward Michael K. M. , Rowley David M.
Published: February 2016

Temporal traces showing the effect of increasing added methanol (red → orange) to a Cl/Cl2O photolysis system, showing the progressive reduction of [ClO]0 with increased [CH3OH] but an increased rate of ClO loss at lower [ClO]0, indicative of the ClO + HO2 reaction.
Effect of nanostructured ceria as support for the iron catalysed hydrogenation of CO2 into hydrocarbons
Authors: Torrente-Murciano Laura , Chapman Robert S. L. , Narvaez-Dinamarca Ana , Mattia Davide , Jones Matthew D.
Published: February 2016

This paper demonstrates the key role of the property–structure relationship of the support on iron/ceria catalysts on the hydrocarbon selectivity and olefin-to-paraffin ratio for the direct hydrogenation of carbon dioxide into hydrocarbons.
Design of an MWW zeolite catalyst for linear alkylbenzene synthesis with improved catalytic stability
Authors: Yen Hsiang-Ting , Wang Jhao-Jyun , Siao Siou-Huei , Cha Seung Hyeok , Hong Suk Bong , Al-Khattaf Sulaiman S. , Wang Ikai , Tsai Tseng-Chang
Published: February 2016

Effect of micro–meso porosity of MWW zeolites on the catalytic linear alkylbenzene synthesis was studied.
Light trapping in mesoporous solar cells with plasmonic nanostructures
Authors: Erwin William R. , Zarick Holly F. , Talbert Eric M. , Bardhan Rizia
Published: February 2016

This review article provides a comprehensive review of recent progress in plasmon-enhanced mesoporous solar cells and the mechanisms employed.
Ultrahigh cycling stability and rate capability of ZnFe2O4@graphene hybrid anode prepared through a facile syn-graphenization strategy
Authors: Liu Lei , Gao Rui , Sun Limei , Han Songbai , Chen Dongfeng , Hu Zhongbo , Liu Xiangfeng
Published: February 2016

A ZnFe2O4@graphene hybrid anode with ultrahigh cycling stability and rate capability has been prepared through a facile syn-graphenization strategy.
Solvent-free synthesis of trisphenols as starting precursors for the synthesis of calix[4]arenes using sulfonated multi-walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Fareghi-Alamdari Reza , Golestanzadeh Mohsen , Zekri Negar
Published: February 2016

The condensation of phenol derivatives with 2,6-bis(hydroxymethyl)phenols is reported using SO3H@MWCNTs under solvent-free conditions as precursors for the synthesis of calix[4]arenes.
Synthesis of CoFe Prussian blue analogue/carbon nanotube composite material and its application in the catalytic epoxidation of styrene
Authors: Wang Qianqian , He Sifa , Wang Ning , Zhao Jihua , Fang Jian , Shen Weiguo
Published: February 2016

Synthesis and characterization of CoFePBA alone and CoFePBA/CNTs and their catalytic properties and kinetic studies of styrene epoxidation are presented.
Rational design of semiconductor-based photocatalysts for advanced photocatalytic hydrogen production: the case of cadmium chalcogenides
Authors: Xu You , Huang Yi , Zhang Bin
Published: February 2016

This review summarizes the recent advances in developing CdX (X = S, Se, Te)-based photocatalyst systems for photocatalytic hydrogen production from water.
Preparation of polyetheretherketone composites with nanohydroxyapatite rods and carbon nanofibers having high strength, good biocompatibility and excellent thermal stability
Authors: Chan Kai Wang , Liao Cheng Zhu , Wong Hoi Man , Kwok Yeung Kelvin Wai , Tjong Sie Chin
Published: February 2016

The WST-1 assay shows that the PEEK/15 vol% nHA–1.9 vol% CNF hybrid composite has excellent biocompatibility.
Copper supported on MWCNT-guanidine acetic acid@Fe3O4: synthesis, characterization and application as a novel multi-task nanocatalyst for preparation of triazoles and bis(indolyl)methanes in water
Authors: Shaabani Ahmad , Afshari Ronak , Hooshmand Seyyed Emad , Tabatabaei Azadeh Tavousi , Hajishaabanha Fatemeh
Published: February 2016

The synthesis of a new supported copper (Cu) nanocatalyst, with highly dispersed particles, based on magnetic guanidine acetic acid (GAA) functionalized multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT), Cu/MWCNT-GAA@Fe3O4, is reported.
The phase evolution, electrical stability and chemical compatibility of sealing glass–ceramics for solid oxide fuel cell applications: effect of La2O3 or CeO2
Authors: Liu Honglin , Du Xinhang , Yu Zhiwu , Tang Dian , Zhang Teng
Published: February 2016

The relationship between the phase evolution and the change in conductivity of glass–ceramics has been clearly demonstrated in this work.
Enhancement of water and organic solvent resistances of a waterborne polyurethane film by incorporating liquid polysulfide
Authors: Zhang Yuliang , Shao Leishan , Dong Dongyu , Wang Yinghan
Published: February 2016

Excellent water and organic solvent resistances could be obtained by incorporating liquid polysulfide in a waterborne polyurethane film.
A comparative study of the CO oxidation reaction over pristine and C-doped boron nitride fullerene
Authors: Esrafili Mehdi D. , Nematollahi Parisa , Nurazar Roghaye
Published: February 2016

In this work, we employ density functional theory calculations to investigate the CO oxidation mechanisms over B12N12 and B11N12C nanocages.
An experimental and theoretical study of dimethylaminostyryl BODIPY-perylenetetracarboxylic derivative dyads: synthesis, properties and DFT calculation
Authors: Kang Hongwei , Si Yubing , Liu Jing , Chen Lin , Li Yanchun , Chen Houyang , Groeper Jonathan , Yang Baocheng
Published: February 2016

Three novel dyads composed of perylene tetracarboxylic unit and BODIPY moiety were synthesized and subjected to detailed spectroscopic examination and DFT calculations. Comparisons about the physical properties with changed acceptors were made.
Novel method for tyrosine assessment in vitro using luminescence quenching of the nano optical sensor Eu–ciprofloxacin doped in a sol–gel matrix
Authors: Attia M. S. , Yakout Amr A.
Published: February 2016

A low cost and very sensitive method for the assessment of tyrosine in blood serum, urine and hair samples was developed. The method was based upon the luminescence intensity of a Eu–ciprofloxacin complex nano optical sensor.
Layered double hydroxide and sulindac coiled and scrolled nanoassemblies for storage and drug release
Authors: Rocha Michele A. , Petersen Philippe A. D. , Teixeira-Neto Erico , Petrilli Helena M. , Leroux Fabrice , Taviot-Gueho Christine , Constantino Vera R. L.
Published: February 2016

Systems comprising anti-inflammatory sulindac intercalated into biocompatible layered double hydroxides nanovehicles were isolated through one pot synthetic method and showed high crystallinity and curled or scrolled particles.
Fluorescent yeast containing intracellularly biosynthesized CdSe QDs as a sensitive probe for simple determination of copper(ii) in water and plasma
Authors: Su Yilong , Du Qing-Qing , Qu Xincheng , Wan Dongyu , Liu Yan-Hua , Wang Chao , Yan Zheng-Yu , Wu Sheng-Mei
Published: February 2016

CdSe QDs were attentively biosynthesized in yeast, and these yeasts can be used as a fluorescent probe for tracing Cu2+in water and plasma.
Surface clean gold nanoflower obtained by complete removal of capping agents: an active catalyst for alcohol oxidation
Authors: Imura Yoshiro , Furukawa Shinya , Ozawa Kenichi , Morita-Imura Clara , Kawai Takeshi , Komatsu Takayuki
Published: February 2016

Morphological stability and catalytic activity of Au nanoflowers (NFs) were improved by using γ-Al2O3 support and water extraction procedure. Formation rate of acetophenone on Au NFs/γ-Al2O3 was ten-fold higher than that on spherical Au NPs/γ-Al2O3.
Synthesis, structure, and properties of a 3D porous Zn(ii) MOF constructed from a terpyridine-based ligand
Authors: Wang Wen , Xiao Zhenyu , Lin Huan , Wang Rongming , Zhang Liangliang , Sun Daofeng
Published: February 2016

A new Zn MOF has been synthesized based on a terpyridine-based ligand, which exhibits selective fluorescent sensing properties for metal ions and nitroaromatic compounds, especially Fe3+, 4-NPH and 4-NP.
Entanglements in polymer nanocomposites containing spherical nanoparticles
Authors: Karatrantos Argyrios , Clarke Nigel , Composto Russell J. , Winey Karen I.
Published: February 2016

We investigate the polymer packing around nanoparticles and polymer/nanoparticle topological constraints (entanglements) in nanocomposites containing spherical nanoparticles in comparison to pure polymer melts using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations.
Functionalizing micro-3D-printed protein hydrogels for cell adhesion and patterning
Authors: Hernandez D. S. , Ritschdorff E. T. , Seidlits S. K. , Schmidt C. E. , Shear J. B.
Published: February 2016

A versatile and dynamic photoconjugation platform is introduced that provides high, 3D spatial resolution for functionalizing micro-3D-printed (μ-3DP) hydrogels. Schwann cells are patterned on μ-3DP hydrogels precisely labeled with RGD, a cell adhesive peptide, demonstrating utility of this platform for cell culture applications.
Dielectric and photoluminescence properties of a layered perovskite-type organic–inorganic hybrid phase transition compound: NH3(CH2)5NH3MnCl4
Authors: Lv Xing-Hui , Liao Wei-Qiang , Li Peng-Fei , Wang Zhong-Xia , Mao Chen-Yu , Zhang Yi
Published: February 2016

The organic–inorganic hybrid compound NH3(CH2)5NH3MnCl4 exhibits a phase transition at 298 K, coupled with switchable dielectric and photoluminescence performances.
Rapid and efficient synthesis of α(1–2)mannobiosides
Authors: Reina José J. , Di Maio Antonio , Ramos-Soriano Javier , Figueiredo Rute C. , Rojo Javier
Published: February 2016

A very rapid, versatile and high yield synthesis of Manα1,2Man derivatives using a common orthogonal benzoyl/acetyl protection strategy compatible with the presence of azido groups and the use of CuAAC for conjugating the α(1–2)mannobiosides to different scaffolds, reducing the cost and time of the synthesis and improving the overall yield.
BiOI hierarchical nanoflowers as novel robust peroxidase mimetics for colorimetric detection of H2O2
Authors: Ju Peng , Xiang Yuhui , Xiang Zhenbo , Wang Min , Zhao Yun , Zhang Dun , Yu Jianqiang , Han Xiuxun
Published: February 2016

BiOI hierarchical nanoflower was developed as a novel, simple and highly sensitive biomimetic catalyst and used for colorimetric detection of H2O2.
Dye-sensitized solar cell based on an inclusion complex of a cyclic porphyrin dimer bearing four 4-pyridyl groups and fullerene C60
Authors: Ooyama Yousuke , Uenaka Koji , Kamimura Takuya , Ozako Shuwa , Kanda Masahiro , Koide Taro , Tani Fumito
Published: February 2016

Cyclic free-base porphyrin dimers linked by butadiyne or phenothiazine bearing four 4-pyridyl groups and their inclusion complexes with fullerene C60 have been applied to dye-sensitized solar cells as a new class of porphyrin dye sensitizers.