bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Locus BoLA-DRB3 is just an ordinary site of the polygene when explaining genetic variance of somatic cell count and milk yield
Authors: Oprzadek Jolanta , Sender Grazyna , Pawlik Adrianna , Lukaszewicz Marek
Published: September 2015

The study aimed at clarifying the problem of the hitherto contradictory results regarding usefulness of BoLA-DRB3 locus as a marker in selection against mastitis and for milk yield. Treating the BoLA-DRB3 locus effect as random was proposed in place of considering it fixed. Somatic cell counts and milk yields recorded monthly on a test day (22 424) of 619 Polish Holstein cows genotyped for BoLA-DRB3 were analysed with an animal model including a random effect for genotype at this locus. The BoLA-DRB3 alleles were defined as restriction patterns obtained with three endonucleases. Two alternative BoLA-DRB3 additive genotype (co)variance structures were constructed for 161 genotypes recorded. One was based on the allelic similarity of the genotypes resulting in element values of 0 (no common allele), 0·5 (one allele in common), and 1 (diagonal). The other considered restriction site similarity (up to 3 in 1 allele) giving element values of 0 (no common restriction sites) and then increasingly in steps of 1/6 up to 6/6 (diagonal), where the numerator represents the number of common sites between genotypes. The DRB3 variance component for the natural logarithm of somatic cell count did not exceed 0·006 of the polygenic additive component or 0·003 for milk yield. Hence, unless we fail to detect the causative site or to properly define traits being the projection of a site, the effect of the genotype at the BoLA-DRB3 locus does not explain variation in somatic cell count and milk yield at a degree expected of a genetic marker.
Repair of an aorto-right ventricular tunnel in a newborn
Authors: Ziesenitz Victoria C. , Gorenflo Matthias , Loukanov Tsvetomir
Published: September 2015

A newborn presented with an aorto-right ventricular tunnel, a defect connecting the left aortic sinus to the right ventricle. The patient underwent repair on 4th day of life.
Abstract gringo
Authors: GEBSER MARTIN , HARRISON AMELIA , KAMINSKI ROLAND , LIFSCHITZ VLADIMIR , SCHAUB TORSTEN
Published: September 2015

This paper defines the syntax and semantics of the input language of the ASP groundergringo. The definition covers several constructs that were not discussed in earlier work on the semantics of that language, including intervals, pools, division of integers, aggregates with non-numeric values, and lparse-style aggregate expressions. The definition is abstract in the sense that it disregards some details related to representing programs by strings of ASCII characters. It serves as a specification forgringofrom Version 4.5 on.
Learning weak constraints in answer set programming
Authors: LAW MARK , RUSSO ALESSANDRA , BRODA KRYSIA
Published: September 2015

This paper contributes to the area of inductive logic programming by presenting a new learning framework that allows the learning of weak constraints in Answer Set Programming (ASP). The framework, calledLearning from Ordered Answer Sets, generalises our previous work on learning ASP programs without weak constraints, by considering a new notion of examples asorderedpairs of partial answer sets that exemplify which answer sets of a learned hypothesis (together with a given background knowledge) arepreferredto others. In this new learning task inductive solutions are searched within a hypothesis space of normal rules, choice rules, and hard and weak constraints. We propose a new algorithm, ILASP2, which is sound and complete with respect to our new learning framework. We investigate its applicability to learning preferences in an interview scheduling problem and also demonstrate that when restricted to the task of learning ASP programs without weak constraints, ILASP2 can be much more efficient than our previously proposed system.
Horn clauses as an intermediate representation for program analysis and transformation
Authors: GANGE GRAEME , NAVAS JORGE A. , SCHACHTE PETER , SØNDERGAARD HARALD , STUCKEY PETER J.
Published: September 2015

Many recent analyses for conventional imperative programs begin by transforming programs into logic programs, capitalising on existing LP analyses and simple LP semantics. We propose using logic programs as an intermediate program representation throughout the compilation process. With restrictions ensuring determinism and single-modedness, a logic program can easily be transformed to machine language or other low-level language, while maintaining the simple semantics that makes it suitable as a language for program analysis and transformation. We present a simple LP language that enforces determinism and single-modedness, and show that it makes a convenient program representation for analysis and transformation.
Complexity and compilation of GZ-aggregates in answer set programming
Authors: ALVIANO MARIO , LEONE NICOLA
Published: September 2015

Gelfond and Zhang recently proposed a new stable model semantics based on Vicious Circle Principle in order to improve the interpretation of logic programs with aggregates. The paper focuses on this proposal, and analyzes the complexity of both coherence testing and cautious reasoning under the new semantics. Some surprising results highlight similarities and differences versus mainstream stable model semantics for aggregates. Moreover, the paper reports on the design of compilation techniques for implementing the new semantics on top of existing ASP solvers, which eventually lead to realize a prototype system that allows for experimenting with Gelfond-Zhang's aggregates.
Adding partial functions to Constraint Logic Programming with sets
Authors: CRISTIÁ MAXIMILIANO , ROSSI GIANFRANCO , FRYDMAN CLAUDIA
Published: September 2015

Partial functions are common abstractions in formal specification notations such as Z, B and Alloy. Conversely, executable programming languages usually provide little or no support for them. In this paper we propose to add partial functions as a primitive feature to a Constraint Logic Programming (CLP) language, namely {log}. Although partial functions could be programmed on top of {log}, providing them as first-class citizens adds valuable flexibility and generality to the form of set-theoretic formulas that the language can safely deal with. In particular, the paper shows how the {log} constraint solver is naturally extended in order to accommodate for the new primitive constraints dealing with partial functions. Efficiency of the new version is empirically assessed by running a number of non-trivial set-theoretical goals involving partial functions, obtained from specifications written in Z.
Screening For Personality Disorders in Outpatient Substance Use Disorder Patients
Authors: Kok Tim , de Haan Hein , Wieske Eva , de Weert Gerdien , de Jong Cor
Published: September 2015

Abstract. The current study evaluates the psychometric properties of both the Standardized Assessment of Personality – Abbreviated Scale (SAPAS) and the Structured Interview for DSM-IV Personality Disorders (SIDP-IV) screener. One hundred two participants were interviewed with the SIDP-IV and the SAPAS. The SIDP-IV was used as the standard to identify PD; the SAPAS and the SIDP-IV screener were compared to the SIDP-IV in terms of sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive power, and overall efficiency. ROC analyses were used to identify ideal cut-off scores. The data showed that both the SAPAS and the SIDP-IV screener had moderate sensitivity and specificity. For the SAPAS, the best cut-off score was 4, yielding a sensitivity of 0.70 and a specificity of 0.63. After modifying the scoring procedures for the SIDP-IV screener, we found a sensitivity of 0.70 and a specificity of 0.75. The results show that the psychometric properties of the SAPAS in a population of treatment-seeking SUD patients are relatively poor compared to previous studies in psychiatric populations. Also, the SAPAS cannot be used to screen for cluster B personality disorders. The SIDP-IV screener shows better results regarding this purpose. Due to the low prevalence of PD in the current study the results should be interpreted with caution.
New Evidence on the Construct Validity of the ASI-3 and the Dimensional Conceptualization of Trait Anxiety Sensitivity From IRT Modeling
Authors: Kemper Christoph J. , Hock Michael
Published: September 2015

Abstract. Anxiety Sensitivity (AS) denotes the tendency to fear anxiety-related sensations. Trait AS is an established risk factor for anxiety pathology. The Anxiety Sensitivity Index-3 (ASI-3) is a widely used measure of AS and its three most robust dimensions with well-established construct validity. At present, the dimensional conceptualization of AS, and thus, the construct validity of the ASI-3 is challenged. A latent class structure with two distinct and qualitatively different forms, an adaptive form (normative AS) and a maladaptive form (AS taxon, predisposing for anxiety pathology) was postulated. Item Response Theory (IRT) models were applied to item-level data of the ASI-3 in an attempt to replicate previous findings in a large nonclinical sample (N = 2,603) and to examine possible interpretations for the latent discontinuity observed. Two latent classes with a pattern of distinct responses to ASI-3 items were found. However, classes were indicative of participant’s differential use of the response scale (midpoint and extreme response style) rather than differing in AS content (adaptive and maladaptive AS forms). A dimensional structure of AS and the construct validity of the ASI-3 was supported.
Obama Uses Alaska Tour to Focus on Climate Change
Authors: Wendel JoAnna
Published: September 2015

In speeches and planned visits to a threatened village and a receding glacier, President Obama makes the case that global warming is happening now and warrants immediate action.
Expression of decoy receptor 3 in kidneys is associated with allograft survival after kidney transplant rejection
Authors: Weng Shuo-Chun , Shu Kuo-Hsiung , Wu Ming-Ju , Wen Mei-Chin , Hsieh Shie-Liang , Chen Nien-Jung , Tarng Der-Cherng
Published: September 2015

Decoy receptor 3 (DcR3) expression in kidneys has been shown to predict progression of chronic kidney disease. We prospectively investigated a cohort comprising 96 renal transplant recipients (RTRs) undergoing graft kidney biopsies. Computer-assisted quantitative immunohistochemical staining value of DcR3 in renal tubular epithelial cells (RTECs) was used to determine the predictive role of DcR3 in kidney disease progression. The primary end point was doubling of serum creatinine and/or graft failure. A multivariate Cox proportional hazards model was used to assess the risk of DcR3 expression in rejected kidney grafts toward the renal end point. In total, RTRs with kidney allograft rejection were evaluated and the median follow-up was 30.9 months. The greater expression of DcR3 immunoreactivity in RTECs was correlated with a higher rate of the histopathological concordance of acute T cell-mediated rejection. Compared with 65 non-progressors, 31 progressors had higher DcR3 expression (HDE) regardless of the traditional risk factors. Cox regression analysis showed HDE was significantly associated with the risk of renal end point with a hazard ratio of 3.19 (95% confidence interval, 1.40 to 7.27; P = 0.006) after adjusting for other variables. In repetitive biopsies, HDE in tissue showed rapid kidney disease progression due to persistent inflammation.
Human testicular peritubular cells secrete pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF), which may be responsible for the avascularity of the seminiferous tubules
Authors: Windschüttl S. , Kampfer C. , Mayer C. , Flenkenthaler F. , Fröhlich T. , Schwarzer J. U. , Köhn F. M. , Urbanski H. , Arnold G. J. , Mayerhofer A.
Published: September 2015

Male fertility depends on spermatogenesis, which takes place in the seminiferous tubules of the testis. This compartment is devoid of blood vessels, which are however found in the wall of the seminiferous tubules. Our proteomic study using cultured human testicular peritubular cells (HTPCs) i.e. the cells, which form this wall, revealed that they constitutively secrete pigment epithelium-derived factor, PEDF, which is known to exert anti-angiogenic actions. Immunohistochemistry supports its presencein vivo, in the human tubular wall. Co-culture studies and analysis of cell migration patterns showed that human endothelial cells (HUVECs) are repulsed by HTPCs. The factor involved is likely PEDF, as a PEDF-antiserum blocked the repulsing action. Thus testicular peritubular cells, via PEDF, may prevent vascularization of human seminiferous tubules. Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) increased PEDF (qPCR) in HTPCs, however PEDF expression in the testis of a non-human primate occurs before puberty. Thus PEDF could be involved in the establishment of the avascular nature of seminiferous tubules and after puberty androgens may further reinforce this feature. Testicular microvessels and blood flow are known to contribute to the spermatogonial stem cell niche. Hence HTPCs via control of testicular microvessels may contribute to the regulation of spermatogonial stem cells, as well.
Evidence for loss of nepotism in the evolution of permanent sociality
Authors: Berger-Tal Reut , Lubin Yael , Settepani Virginia , Majer Marija , Bilde Trine , Tuni Cristina
Published: September 2015

Kin selected benefits of cooperation result in pronounced kin discrimination and nepotism in many social species and favour the evolution of sociality. However, low variability in relatedness among group members, infrequent competitive interactions with non-relatives and direct benefits of cooperation may relax selection for nepotism. We tested this prediction in a permanently social spider, Stegodyphus dumicola that appears to fulfil these conditions. Sociality is a derived trait and kin discrimination exists in sub-social closely related congeners and is likely a selective force in the sub-social route to permanent sociality in spiders. We examined whether social spiders show nepotism in cooperative feeding when genetic relatedness among group members was experimentally varied. We found no effect of relatedness on feeding efficiency, growth rate or participation in feeding events. Previous studies on sub-social species showed benefits of communal feeding with kin, indicating nepotistic cooperation. The lack of evidence for nepotism in the social species suggests that kin discrimination has been lost or is irrelevant in communal feeding. Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that the role of nepotism is diminished when cooperation evolves in certain genetic and ecological contexts, e.g. when intra-group genetic relatedness is homogeneous and encounters with competitors are rare.
The Crystal Structure of Pneumolysin at 2.0 Å Resolution Reveals the Molecular Packing of the Pre-pore Complex
Authors: Marshall Jamie E. , Faraj Bayan H. A. , Gingras Alexandre R. , Lonnen Rana , Sheikh Md. Arif , El-Mezgueldi Mohammed , Moody Peter C. E. , Andrew Peter W. , Wallis Russell
Published: September 2015

Pneumolysin is a cholesterol-dependent cytolysin (CDC) and virulence factor of Streptococcus pneumoniae. It kills cells by forming pores assembled from oligomeric rings in cholesterol-containing membranes. Cryo-EM has revealed the structures of the membrane-surface bound pre-pore and inserted-pore oligomers, however the molecular contacts that mediate these oligomers are unknown because high-resolution information is not available. Here we have determined the crystal structure of full-length pneumolysin at 1.98 Å resolution. In the structure, crystal contacts demonstrate the likely interactions that enable polymerisation on the cell membrane and the molecular packing of the pre-pore complex. The hemolytic activity is abrogated in mutants that disrupt these intermolecular contacts, highlighting their importance during pore formation. An additional crystal structure of the membrane-binding domain alone suggests that changes in the conformation of a tryptophan rich-loop at the base of the toxin promote monomer-monomer interactions upon membrane binding by creating new contacts. Notably, residues at the interface are conserved in other members of the CDC family, suggesting a common mechanism for pore and pre-pore assembly.
Granular friction: Triggering large events with small vibrations
Authors: Lastakowski Henri , Géminard Jean-Christophe , Vidal Valérie
Published: September 2015

Triggering large-scale motion by imposing vibrations to a system can be encountered in many situations, from daily-life shaking of saltcellar to silo unclogging or dynamic earthquakes triggering. In the well-known situation of solid or granular friction, the acceleration of imposed vibrations has often been proposed as the governing parameter for the transition between stick-slip motion and continuous sliding. The threshold acceleration for the onset of continuous slip motion or system unjamming is usually found of the order of the gravitational acceleration. These conclusions are mostly drawn from numerical studies. Here, we investigate, in the laboratory, granular friction by shearing a layer of grains subjected to horizontal vibrations. We show that, in contrast with previous results, the quantity that controls the frictional properties is the characteristic velocity and not the acceleration, of the imposed mechanical vibrations. Thus, when the system is statically loaded, the typical acceleration of the vibrations which trigger large slip events is much smaller than the gravitational acceleration. These results may be relevant to understand dynamic earthquake triggering by small ground perturbations.
Anisotropic thermoelectric behavior in armchair and zigzag mono- and fewlayer MoS2 in thermoelectric generator applications
Authors: Arab Abbas , Li Qiliang
Published: September 2015

In this work, we have studied thermoelectric properties of monolayer and fewlayer MoS2 in both armchair and zigzag orientations. Density functional theory (DFT) using non-equilibrium Green’s function (NEGF) method has been implemented to calculate the transmission spectra of mono- and fewlayer MoS2 in armchair and zigzag directions. Phonon transmission spectra are calculated based on parameterization of Stillinger-Weber potential. Thermoelectric figure of merit, ZT, is calculated using these electronic and phonon transmission spectra. In general, a thermoelectric generator is composed of thermocouples made of both n-type and p-type legs. Based on our calculations, monolayer MoS2 in armchair orientation is found to have the highest ZT value for both p-type and n-type legs compared to all other armchair and zigzag structures. We have proposed a thermoelectric generator based on monolayer MoS2 in armchair orientation. Moreover, we have studied the effect of various dopant species on thermoelectric current of our proposed generator. Further, we have compared output current of our proposed generator with those of Silicon thin films. Results indicate that thermoelectric current of MoS2 armchair monolayer is several orders of magnitude higher than that of Silicon thin films.
FoxM1 Directs STAT3 Expression Essential for Human Endometrial Stromal Decidualization
Authors: Jiang Yaling , Liao Yixin , He Hui , Xin Qiliang , Tu Zhaowei , Kong Shuangbo , Cui Tongtong , Wang Bingyan , Quan Song , Li Bing , Zhang Shuang , Wang Haibin
Published: September 2015

Human endometrium decidualization, which involves endometrial stromal proliferation and differentiation, is a prerequisite for embryo implantation, thus successful pregnancy. The Forkhead Box M1 (FoxM1), previously known as HNF-3, HFH-11, MPP2, Win and Trident, is a transcriptional factor that plays crucial roles in cell proliferation and cell cycle progression. However, the molecular mechanism of FoxM1 during human endometrial decidualization remains unexplored. In this study, we first found FoxM1 is dynamically expressed in human endometrium during menstrual cycle. Employing a human endometrial stromal cell (HESC) line, we then demonstrated that FoxM1 inhibition downregulates cyclin B1 expression, delaying G2/M phase transition during HESC proliferation. Additionally, loss of FoxM1 expression blocks the differentiation of HESCs in response to estrogen, progesterone and dbcAMP. Applying chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) technique and luciferase assay, we further approved that FoxM1 can transcriptionally active signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), ensuring normal HESC differentiation. Besides enriching our knowledge on molecular basis underlying stromal decidualization, these findings help to shed light on the potential molecular causes for the endometrial disorders in humans.
Obtaining complementary polypeptide sequence information from a single precursor ion packet via sequential ion mobility-resolved electron transfer and vibrational activation
Authors: Rathore Deepali , Aboufazeli Forouzan , Dodds Eric D.
Published: September 2015

Electron transfer, ion mobility, and vibrational activation are combined to obtain temporally-resolved electron transfer dissociation and collision-induced dissociation spectra from a single packet of protonated polypeptide ions.
NIR-emitting aza-BODIPY dyes – new building blocks for broad-range optical pH sensors
Authors: Strobl Martin , Rappitsch Tanja , Borisov Sergey M. , Mayr Torsten , Klimant Ingo
Published: September 2015

New NIR-emitting aza-BODIPY indicators which cover the pH scale from 1.5 to 13 are presented and combination of four of these pH indicators yields a pH sensor with an extended dynamic range from pH 2 to 9.
Correction: Towards high-throughput microfluidic Raman-activated cell sorting
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Zhang Peiran , Gou Honglei , Mou Chunbo , Huang Wei E. , Yang Menglong , Xu Jian , Ma Bo
Published: September 2015

Correction for ‘Towards high-throughput microfluidic Raman-activated cell sorting’ by Qiang Zhang et al., Analyst, 2015, DOI: 10.1039/c5an01074h.
Electrochemical determination of guaifenesin in a pharmaceutical formulation and human urine based on an anodized nanocrystalline graphite-like pyrolytic carbon film electrode
Authors: Hadi M.
Published: September 2015

A simple and sensitive electrochemical method was developed for the determination of guaifenesin based on a pyrolytic carbon film (PCF) electrode.
Fluorescent polyelectrolyte for the visualization of fingermarks
Authors: van der Mee Lars , Chow Esther S. Y. , de Smet Louis C. P. M. , de Puit Marcel , Sudhölter Ernst J. R. , Jager Wolter F.
Published: September 2015

A fluorescent polyelectrolyte, poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH) functionalised with the 7-amino-quinolinium chromophore, has been synthesized and employed for the visualization of latent fingerprints.
Na2MoO2−δF4+δ – a perovskite with a unique combination of atomic orderings and octahedral tilts
Authors: Ishikawa Hajime , Munaò Irene , Bode Bela E. , Hiroi Zenji , Lightfoot Philip
Published: September 2015

Na2MoO2−δF4+δ represents the first example of a perovskite exhibiting simultaneous A-site, B-site and anion site order, together with a complex tilt system.
Accessing stable zirconium carboxy-aminophosphonate nanosheets as support for highly active Pd nanoparticles
Authors: Costantino Ferdinando , Vivani Riccardo , Bastianini Maria , Ortolani Luca , Piermatti Oriana , Nocchetti Morena , Vaccaro Luigi
Published: September 2015

PdNPs stabilized on exfoliated layered zirconium phosphate–carboxyphosphonate nanosheets as an efficient catalytic system for the Suzuki coupling.
Mussel-inspired antifouling coatings bearing polymer loops
Authors: Li Lin , Yan Bin , Zhang Ling , Tian Yu , Zeng Hongbo
Published: September 2015

This work reports the preparation of antifouling coatings bearing polymer loops and polymer brushes, and compares their antifouling performance.
Zn(ii) assisted synthesis of porous salen as an efficient heterogeneous scaffold for capture and conversion of CO2
Authors: Bhunia Subhajit , Molla Rostam Ali , Kumari Vandana , Islam Sk. Manirul , Bhaumik Asim
Published: September 2015

A new zinc-salen functionalized porous polymer has been synthesized by an easy one-step process, which shows unprecedented catalytic efficiency in the CO2 fixation reaction via cycloaddition of CO2 with epoxides.
Controlling release, unfolding and dissociation of membrane protein complexes in the gas phase through collisional cooling
Authors: Landreh Michael , Liko Idlir , Uzdavinys Povilas , Coincon Mathieu , Hopper Jonathan T. S. , Drew David , Robinson Carol V.
Published: September 2015

Reduced collisional cooling releases intact membrane protein complexes from detergent micelles for unfolding and dissociation studies by mass spectrometry.
Modulation of single-molecule magnet behaviour via photochemical [2+2] cycloaddition
Authors: Wang Long-Fei , Qiu Jiang-Zhen , Liu Jun-Liang , Chen Yan-Cong , Jia Jian-Hua , Jover Jesús , Ruiz Eliseo , Tong Ming-Liang
Published: September 2015

The first example of phototunable SMMs has been reported. Upon UV irradiation, the remarkable variations of the coordination sphere of Dy(iii) ions result in a magnetic transformation from the SMM behaviour to afield-induced slow relaxation via SCSC [2+2] cycloaddition reaction.
Correction: Stacking interactions by two Phe side chains stabilize and orient assemblies of even the minimal amphiphilic β-sheet motif
Authors: Zarzhitsky Shlomo , Vinod T. P. , Jelinek Raz , Rapaport Hanna
Published: September 2015

Correction for ‘Stacking interactions by two Phe side chains stabilize and orient assemblies of even the minimal amphiphilic β-sheet motif’ by Shlomo Zarzhitsky et al., Chem. Commun., 2015, 51, 3154–3157.
Correction: Versatile strategy for the divergent synthesis of linear oligosaccharide domain variants of Quillaja saponin vaccine adjuvants
Authors: Fernández-Tejada Alberto , Tan Derek S. , Gin David Y.
Published: September 2015

Correction for ‘Versatile strategy for the divergent synthesis of linear oligosaccharide domain variants of Quillaja saponin vaccine adjuvants’ by Alberto Fernández-Tejada et al., Chem. Commun., 2015, DOI: 10.1039/c5cc05244k.
Polyanionic identity of Ca2Zn2(V3O10)(VO4) photocatalyst manifested by X-ray powder diffraction and periodic boundary density functional theory calculations
Authors: Babaryk Artem A. , Odynets Ievgen V. , Khainakov Sergei , Garcia-Granda Santiago , Slobodyanik Nikolay S.
Published: September 2015

The structure of photocatalytic and photoluminescent binary vanadate of the general formula “CaZnV2O7” has been investigated using X-ray powder diffraction.
Divergent 4,2′:6′,4′′- and 3,2′:6′,3′′-terpyridines as linkers in 2- and 3-dimensional architectures
Authors: Housecroft Catherine E.
Published: September 2015

This Highlight illustrates the strategies applied to encourage the formation of 2- and 3-dimensional metal–organic architectures as opposed to 1-dimensional chains using 4,2′:6′,4′′- and 3,2′:6′,3′′-terpyridines as organic linkers.
Exponential size-dependent tunability of strain on the transport behavior in ZnO tunnel junctions: an ab initio study
Authors: Zhu Jia , Chen W. J. , Zhang G. H. , Zheng Yue
Published: September 2015

It is an interesting issue if the transport behavior of a piezoelectric tunnel junction is sensitive to external strain or stress, and it implies a prospect for developing novel mechanical sensors, transducers, piezotronic devices, etc.
Aluminum chain in Li2Al3H8− as suggested by photoelectron spectroscopy and ab initio calculations
Authors: Popov Ivan A. , Zhang Xinxing , Eichhorn Bryan W. , Boldyrev Alexander I. , Bowen Kit H.
Published: September 2015

Group 13 elements are very rarely observed to catenate into linear chains and experimental observation of such species is challenging.
Why LiFePO4 is a safe battery electrode: Coulomb repulsion induced electron-state reshuffling upon lithiation
Authors: Liu Xiaosong , Wang Yung Jui , Barbiellini Bernardo , Hafiz Hasnain , Basak Susmita , Liu Jun , Richardson Thomas , Shu Guojiun , Chou Fangcheng , Weng Tsu-Chien , Nordlund Dennis , Sokaras Dimosthenis , Moritz Brian , Devereaux Thomas P. , Qiao Ruimin , Chuang Yi-De , Bansil Arun , Hussain Zahid , Yang Wanli
Published: September 2015

A combined spectroscopic and theoretical study clarifies the electron states associated with the intrinsic safety of LiFePO4 electrodes.
Cycloaddition of carbonyl compounds and alkynes to (di)silenes and (di)germenes: reactivity and mechanism
Authors: Milnes Kaarina K. , Pavelka Laura C. , Baines Kim M.
Published: September 2015

The cycloaddition reactions of carbonyl compounds and alkynes to (di)tetrelenes appear to follow Woodward–Hoffman rules.
Biocatalytic perchlorate reduction: kinetics and effects of groundwater characteristics
Authors: Hutchison Justin M. , Zilles Julie L.
Published: September 2015

This paper evaluates the kinetics of perchlorate-reducing biocatalysts and the effects of groundwater characteristics. Under conditions tested such as varying temperature, pH and NOM, the biocatalysts maintained robust perchlorate reducing activity, supporting their potential use in drinking water treatment.
Poly(ethylene glycol) based bis-diol as a functional medium for highly efficient conversion of urea and methanol to dimethyl carbonate
Authors: Zhang Zhaofu , Zhang Lujun , Wu Congyi , Qian Qingli , Zhu Qinggong , Han Buxing
Published: September 2015

Poly(ethylene glycol) based bis-diol/ZnO is an excellent catalytic system for the reaction of urea and methanol to produce DMC. The equilibrium yield of DMC in the reaction can be ten times higher than that of the conventional method.
Endothelial cell sensing, restructuring, and invasion in collagen hydrogel structures
Authors: Hosseini Y. , . Agah M , . Verbridge S. S
Published: September 2015

Endothelial cells invade through the sharp and curved structures while remodeling the side of the structures.
Asphaltenes yield curve measurements on a microfluidic platform
Authors: Sieben Vincent J. , Tharanivasan Asok Kumar , Ratulowski John , Mostowfi Farshid
Published: September 2015

We describe a microfluidic apparatus and method for performing asphaltene yield measurements on crude oil samples.
Rare earth–metal bonding in molecular compounds: recent advances, challenges, and perspectives
Authors: Butovskii Mikhail V. , Kempe Rhett
Published: September 2015

In this review, all structurally authenticated molecular compounds with direct bonds between rare earth metals and transition or main group metals are summarized. Novel aspects of their syntheses, properties and reactivities are highlighted.
Electrofocusing-enhanced localized surface plasmon resonance biosensors
Authors: Zhang Jinling , Wang Yi , Wong Ten It , Liu Xiaohu , Zhou Xiaodong , Liedberg Bo
Published: September 2015

An electrofocusing-enhanced plasmonic sensor was developed on a gold nanohole array to promote the capture of human troponin I while repelling serum albumin.
An optimized and versatile synthesis to pyridinylimidazole-type p38α mitogen activated protein kinase inhibitors
Authors: El-Gokha Ahmed , Laufer Stefan A. , Koch Pierre
Published: September 2015

An optimized and diverse synthetic approach for the preparation of potent pyridinylimidazole-based p38α MAP kinase inhibitors is reported.
Metal-free oxidative cleavage of the C–C bond in α-hydroxy-β-oxophosphonates
Authors: Battula Satyanarayana , Kumar Atul , Ahmed Qazi Naveed
Published: September 2015

The potential of TBHP to promote oxidative hydroxylation of α-hydroxy-β-oxophosphonates (HOPs) through C(CO)–C bond cleavage is described. This cleavage, as depicted in the mechanism, is expected through an isomer of HOP that reacts with TBHP to generate acids.
Ultraductile, notch and stab resistant supramolecular hydrogels via host–guest interactions
Authors: Tan Mei , Cui Yulin , Zhu Aidi , Han Han , Guo Mingyu , Jiang Ming
Published: September 2015

We present a rational design based on a new host–guest strategy for fabrication of supramolecular hydrogels with a good combination of ultraductility, notch and stab resistance as well as self-healing behavior.
Large-scale highly ordered hierarchical structures of conjugated polymer via self-assembly from mixed solvents
Authors: Xiao Guihua , Sun Yingjuan , Xu Wentao , Lin Yuan , Su Zhaohui , Wang Qian
Published: September 2015

Highly-ordered large scale patterns of poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) can be produced via confined evaporative self-assembly (CESA) from mixed solvents in one-step.
Low-dose HSP90 inhibitors DPB and AUY-922 repress apoptosis in HUVECs
Authors: Bai Su-Yun , Yao Li-Qi , Su Le , Zhang Shang-Li , Zhao Bao-Xiang , Miao Jun-Ying
Published: September 2015

Low-dose HSP90 inhibitors DPB and AUY-922 repress apoptosis in HUVECs, which was accompanied by the increase of p-AKT1.
An organo-NHC catalyzed domino addition approach for the selective synthesis of 5-butynylisoxazoles and subsequent Sonogashira coupling
Authors: Kankala Shravankumar , Jonnalagadda Sreekantha B. , Vasam Chandra Sekhar
Published: September 2015

An organo-NHC catalysed domino addition approach for the selective synthesis of 5-butynylisoxazoles and the subsequent Sonogashira cross-coupling for the selective synthesis of corresponding internal alkynes is described.
Real-space characterization of hydroxyphenyl porphyrin derivatives designed for single-molecule devices
Authors: Shiotari Akitoshi , Ozaki Yusuke , Naruse Shoichi , Okuyama Hiroshi , Hatta Shinichiro , Aruga Tetsuya , Tamaki Takashi , Ogawa Takuji
Published: September 2015

Using STM, we image the hydroxyphenyl porphyrin unit and its array which are synthesized as the basis of a molecular rectifier, and characterize the electronic states associated with the transport properties through the molecule.
Combining amphiphilic chitosan and bioglass for mediating cellular osteogenic growth peptide gene
Authors: Luo Jie , Ling You , Li Xian , Yuan Bo , Yu Feng , Xie Weihan , Chen Xiaofeng
Published: September 2015

We evaluated the influence of MBG for gene transfection of MBG/CS-mPEG-PCL. This strategy may broaden the biomedical applications of bioglass in the repair and reconstruction of bone and teeth.
Current state of the art of mass spectrometry-based metabolomics studies – a review focusing on wide coverage, high throughput and easy identification
Authors: Wang Yang , Liu Shuying , Hu Yuanjia , Li Peng , Wan Jian-Bo
Published: September 2015

Metabolomics aims at the comprehensive assessment of a wide range of endogenous metabolites and attempts to identify and quantify the attractive metabolites in a given biological sample.
Fabrication and photoelectrochemical properties of TiO2/CuInS2/Bi2S3 core/shell/shell nanorods electrodes
Authors: Wan Yanling , Han Minmin , Yu Limin , Jia Junhong , Yi Gewen
Published: September 2015

The FESEM images (a and b), photocurrent density versus potential (c–v) curves (c) and schematic of the energy level arrangement (d).
A facile approach for the synthesis of novel 1-oxa- and 1-aza-flavonyl-4-methyl-1H-benzo[d][1,3]oxazin-2(4H)-ones by microwave enhanced Suzuki–Miyaura coupling using bidentate chromen-4-one-based Pd(ii)–diimine complex as catalyst
Authors: Kumar Sumit , Ahmed Naseem
Published: September 2015

A facile access to novel 1-oxa- and 1-aza-flavonyl-4-methyl-1H-benzo[d][1,3]oxazin-2(4H)-ones using microwave assisted Suzuki coupling of bromo flavones with boronic acids using a novel catalytic system (C) under aerobic condition is reported.
Surface modification of polysulfonamide fiber treated by air plasma
Authors: Peng Haokai , Zheng Guo , Sun Yu , Wang Rui
Published: September 2015

The surface of polysulfonamide (PSA) fiber was modified by air plasma to improve the wettability and interfacial bonding performance of the fiber.
A multifunctional hierarchically assembled magnetic nanostructure towards cancer nano-theranostics
Authors: Mousavi Hajar , Movahedi Behrooz , Zarrabi Ali , Jahandar Marzieh
Published: September 2015

Fe3O4@BG@HPG was synthesized and introduced as a biocompatible nano-theranostics agent.
Nickel oxide nanoflake-based bifunctional glass electrodes with superior cyclic stability for energy storage and electrochromic applications
Authors: Chen Yanli , Wang Yue , Sun Peng , Yang Peihua , Du Lianhuan , Mai Wenjie
Published: September 2015

We report the fabrication of NiO nanoflake-based bifunctional glass electrodes that combine energy storage and electrochromism.
Fabrication of robust superhydrophobic surfaces by modification of chemically roughened fibers via thiol–ene click chemistry
Authors: Xue Chao-Hua , Guo Xiao-Jing , Zhang Ming-Ming , Ma Jian-Zhong , Jia Shun-Tian
Published: September 2015

Superhydrophobic fabrics were fabricated by creation of roughening structures through alkali etching of fibers, modification with mercapto silanes and hydrophobization via thiol–ene click chemistry.
An amphiphilic squarylium indocyanine dye for long-term tracking of lysosomes
Authors: Ji Chendong , Zheng Yang , Li Jie , Shen Jie , Yang Wantai , Yin Meizhen
Published: September 2015

A novel amphiphilic squarylium indocyanine (LysoCy) is reported for remarkable lysosome tracking in live cells.
Luminescent properties of europium-doped (H3O)Y3F10·xH2O nanocrystals
Authors: Caron Cyril , Boudreau Denis , Ritcey Anna M.
Published: September 2015

Low-polydispersity europium-doped (H3O)Y3F10·xH2O single-crystal nanoparticles can be prepared via a simple reverse microemulsion method.
Adaptive power control algorithm in cognitive radio based on game theory
Authors: Yang Guanglong , Li Bin , Tan Xuezhi , Wang Xiao
Published: September 2015

Cognitive radio (CR) has achieved increasing attention to improve the spectrum utilisation by allowing the coexistence of primary users (PUs) and cognitive users (CUs) in the same frequency band. As the spectrum of interest is licenced to primary network, power control must be carried out within the CR system so that no excessive interference is caused to PUs. In this study, the problem of power control is investigated in CR systems based on game theory subject to interference power constraint at PU and the signal‐to‐interference‐plus‐noise ratio (SINR) constraint of each CU. The objective is to reduce the power consumption caused by some CUs’ SINR over the target value. First, a non‐cooperation power control game is formulated, and then an adaptive power control algorithm based on feedback function is proposed. Moreover, the existence and uniqueness of Nash equilibrium are proved. Simulation results show that, compared with other distributed algorithms, the proposed algorithm can reduce the power consumption and overcome the near‐far effect.
Equivalence of non‐linear model structures based on Pareto uncertainty
Authors: Barbosa Alípio Monteiro , Caldeira Takahashi Ricardo Hiroshi , Aguirre Luis Antonio
Published: September 2015

In view of practical limitations, it is not always feasible to find the   best model structure. In such situations, a more realistic problem to address seems to be the choice of a set of model structures that are not clearly distinguishable in view of the available data. This study proposes a procedure based on the bi‐objective optimisation and hypothesis testing that, given a pool of candidate model structures, will select a subset that is consistent with the data given a user‐defined confidence level. Such a subset carries an important information that no single most likely model structure can deliver: the unmodelled component of system behaviour, given the model structure uncertainty. The procedure is illustrated using simulated and measured data. For the sake of argument convex optimisation has been considered, although the procedure also applies to non‐convex problems.
Copula – to model multi‐channel fading by correlated but arbitrary Weibull marginals, giving a closed‐form outage probability of selection‐combining reception
Authors: Huang Shih‐Hao , Lo Huang Mong‐Na , Thomas Wong Kainam , Tseng Tzu‐Chiang
Published: September 2015

This study introduces the mathematical paradigm of ‘copula’ to the technical field of channel modelling. Copula‐based modelling allows each sensor of its distinct set of fading parameters, and allows cross‐correlation among various sensors’ parameter sets. Hence, the branch statistics may be non‐identical over various branches, yet cross‐correlated between branches. This scenario is realistic especially for sensors of different polarisations/constructions and/or for sensors at widely separate locations – as increasingly common for wireless transceivers. Despite such versatility in modelling, this copula‐based multivariate fading distribution may yet be so simple in mathematical form that the system's outage probability can be analytically derived in a closed form, free of any infinite‐term summation and free of any unsolved integration.
Radar cross‐section measurement in millimetre‐wave for passive millimetre‐wave identification tags
Authors: Hotte David , Siragusa Romain , Duroc Yvan , Tedjini Smail
Published: September 2015

The passive millimetre‐wave identification (MMID) technology was introduced few years ago, exploiting the advantages of the passive ultra‐high frequency (UHF) radio frequency identification (RFID). The communication is based on backscattering modulation, related to the radar cross‐section (RCS) of the transponder. Thus, the need of accurate RCS measurement in the V‐band arises. This work presents two methods to measure the RCS of any antenna in the particular case of MMID from 57 to 66 GHz. The studied methods require some precautions in millimetre‐wave compared with measurements done in the UHF band. The two approaches highlight the methodology for accurate RCS measurement while the methods are evaluated through an example. A horn antenna is used as a MMID tag antenna and the RCS of the antenna is studied across three different loads as in UHF RFID: the short circuit, the open circuit and the matched load. The proposed methods provide a good accuracy and are validated by comparing the measurement results to the simulation.
Theoretical cross‐comparative analysis on dynamics of small intestine and colon crypts during cancer initiation
Authors: Roznovăţ Irina A. , Ruskin Heather J.
Published: September 2015

Epigenetics is emerging as a fundamentally important area of biological and medical research that has implications for our understanding of human diseases including cancer, autoimmune and neuropsychiatric disorders. In the context of recent efforts on personalised medicine, a novel research direction is concerned with identification of intra‐individual epigenetic variation linked to disease predisposition and development, i.e. epigenome‐wide association studies. A computational model has been developed to describe the dynamics and structure of human intestinal crypts and to perform a comparative analysis on aberrant DNA methylation level induced in these during cancer initiation. The crypt framework, AgentCrypt, is an agent‐based model of crypt dynamics, which handles intra‐ and inter‐dependencies. In addition, the AgentCrypt model is used to investigate the effect of a set of potential inhibitors with respect to methylation modification in intestinal tissue during initiation of disease. Methylation level decrease over a relatively short period of 90 days is marked for the colon compared to the small intestine, although similar alterations are induced in both tissues. In addition, inhibitor effect is notable for abnormal crypt groups, with largest average methylation differences observed ≈0.75% lower in the colon and ≈0.79% lower in the small intestine with inhibitor present.
Local Anesthetics delivered through Pleural Drainages improve Pain and Lung Function after Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Ismail Issam , Siemeni Thierry , Ruemke Stefan , Fleissner Felix , Zhang Ruoyu , Wiegmann Bettina , Filitz Joerg , Gottlieb Jens , Haverich Axel , Mashaqi Bakr
Published: September 2015

Objective Pleural tubes after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery usually cause pain resulting interalia in an impact of postoperative breathing. Therefore, the influence of intrapleural lidocaine application through special double-lumen chest tubes with respect to pain relief and lung function was investigated and compared with placebo.

Methods In this study, 40 patients who underwent CABG got intrapleural injection either with 2% lidocaine (n = 20) or placebo (0.9% saline solution) (n = 20) on the first 2 days after surgery. Pain was measured by pain intensity numeric rating scale (NRS) (0 = no pain; 10 = the most intense pain) and lung function by portable spirometer.

Results On the first postoperative day (POD1), mean pain reduction was NRS 1.9 for the lidocaine group with an improvement of the forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) of 0.51 L. Similar results were shown on the second postoperative day (POD2) with a decreased pain level of mean NRS 1.65 and an FEV1 improvement of 0.26 L. In comparison, results of the placebo group showed no significant pain reduction, neither on the POD1 (NRS 0.35; p = 0.429) nor on the POD2 (NRS 0.55; p = 0.159). Also, there was no significant influence of FEV1 after placebo on the POD1 (FEV1 = 0.048 L; p = 0.70) or on the POD2 (FEV1 = 0.0135 L; p = 0.925).

Conclusion Intrapleural application of lidocaine is a safe and feasible method to reduce drainage-related pain and improving lung function after CABG.
Analysis of unstable periodic orbits and chaotic orbits in the one-dimensional linear piecewise-smooth discontinuous map
Authors: Rajpathak Bhooshan , Pillai Harish K. , Bandyopadhyay Santanu
Published: September 2015

In this paper, we analytically examine the unstable periodic orbits and chaotic orbits of the 1-D linear piecewise-smooth discontinuous map. We explore the existence of unstable orbits and the effect of variation in parameters on the coexistence of unstable orbits. Further, we show that this structuring is different from the well known period adding cascade structure associated with the stable periodic orbits of the same map. Further, we analytically prove the existence of chaotic orbit for this map.
Investigation of single-layer/multilayer self-assembled InAs quantum dots on GaAs1-xSbx/GaAs composite substrates
Authors: Tang Dinghao , Kim Yeongho , Faleev Nikolai , Honsberg Christiana B. , Smith David J.
Published: September 2015

The structure-performance properties of single-layered and multi-layered InAs/GaAs1−xSbx quantum dot (QD) system, grown by molecular beam epitaxy on GaAs (001) substrates, have been investigated as a function of Sb concentration. Electron microscopy observations showed no significant crystalline defects for the single-layered InAs QDs (Sb 20%). X-ray diffraction analysis revealed that the increase of Sb concentration from 7.3% to 10.2% for the multi-layered QDs increased the strain relaxation from 0% to ∼23% and the dislocation density of GaAsSb layers went up to 3.6 × 109 cm−2. The peak energy of QD luminescence was red-shifted with increasing Sb concentration due to reduced strain inside QDs. Moreover, the carrier lifetime of the QDs was highly improved from 1.7 to 36.7 ns due to weak hole confinement as the Sb concentration was increased from 7.3% to 10.2%. These structures should be highly promising as the basis for photovoltaic solar-cell applications. Finally, the increased Sb concentration increased the thermal activation energy of electrons confined in the QDs from 163.7 to 206.8 meV, which was indicative of the improved thermal stability with Sb concentration.