bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rhythmogenesis evolves as a consequence of long-term plasticity of inhibitory synapses
Authors: Soloduchin Sarit , Shamir Maoz
Published: August 2018

Brain rhythms are widely believed to reflect numerous cognitive processes. Changes in rhythmicity have been associated with pathological states. However, the mechanism underlying these rhythms remains unknown. Here, we present a theoretical analysis of the evolvement of rhythm generating capabilities in neuronal circuits. We tested the hypothesis that brain rhythms can be acquired via an intrinsic unsupervised learning process of activity dependent plasticity. Specifically, we focused on spike timing dependent plasticity (STDP) of inhibitory synapses. We detail how rhythmicity can develop via STDP under certain conditions that serve as a natural prediction of the hypothesis. We show how global features of the STDP rule govern and stabilize the resultant rhythmic activity. Finally, we demonstrate how rhythmicity is retained even in the face of synaptic variability. This study suggests a role for inhibitory plasticity that is beyond homeostatic processes.
Systemic Injection of Substance P Promotes Murine Calvarial Repair Through Mobilizing Endogenous Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Zhang Yueling , An Shu , Hao Jin , Tian Feng , Fang Xinyi , Wang Jun
Published: August 2018

Craniofacial defect is a critical problem in dental clinic, which has a tremendous impact on patients’ quality of life. Mesenchymal stem cell-based therapy has emerged as a promising approach for tissue defect repair. However, reduced survival after mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) transplantation remains as a major problem in this area, which hampers the outcome of regeneration. Recently, the mechanism to mobilize endogenous MSCs for tissue regeneration has received increasing attentions, as it does not require exogenous cell transplantation. The primary goal of this study was to confirm the role of intravenous substance P in mobilizing endogenous CD45−CD11b−CD29+ MSCs in critical-sized bone defect animals and to investigate the effects of substance P on calvarial bone repair. Flow cytometry analyses revealed that intravenous substance P promoted the mobilization of endogenous CD45−CD11b−CD29+ MSCs after bone defect. In addition, Micro-CT showed that intravenous substance P improved the outcomes of calvarial bone repair. Furthermore, we discovered that systemic injection of substance P attenuated inflammation and enhanced the survival of the local-transplanted GFP+ MSCs. Our findings suggested that substance P together with its mobilized CD45−CD11b−CD29+ MSCs helped improve calvarial defect repair through regulating inflammatory conditions and promoting the survival of local-transplanted cells.
A Serine/Threonine Kinase 16-Based Phospho-Proteomics Screen Identifies WD Repeat Protein-1 As A Regulator Of Constitutive Secretion
Authors: López-Coral Alfonso , Striz Anneliese C. , Tuma Pamela L.
Published: August 2018

The plasma membrane of polarized hepatocytes is functionally divided into two domains: the apical and basolateral. Our focus is to define the molecular basis of polarized protein sorting of newly-synthesized membrane and secretory proteins in WIF-B cells, an excellent model system for polarized hepatocytes. We determined that MAL2 (myelin and lymphocyte protein 2) and its binding partner, serine/threonine kinase 16 (STK16) regulate basolateral constitutive secretion. Because STK16 is a constitutively active kinase, we reasoned that constitutively phosphorylated substrates must participate in constitutive secretion. To identify either STK16 substrates or other proteins that regulate constitutive secretion, we took a proteomics approach. Post-nuclear supernatants from cells expressing wild type or a kinase-dead (E202A) STK16 were separated on 2D gels and immunoblotted with antibodies against phospho-serine/threonine residues. Sixteen spots were identified from E202A-expressing cells that reproducibly displayed decreased immunoreactivity. From these spots, 28 proteins were identified as possible STK16 substrates. Out of these 28 possible substrates, 25% of them encode predicted STK16 phosphorylation consensus sites, with WD repeat containing protein-1 (WDR1) encoding two such sites. Based on this finding and on the finding that actin remodeling is required for hepatic secretion, we further confirmed that WDR1 is a phosphoprotein that regulates secretion.
A steam-based method to investigate biofilm
Authors: Tasse Jason , Cara Andréa , Saglio Maude , Villet Régis , Laurent Frédéric
Published: August 2018

Biofilm has become a major topic of interest in medical, food, industrial, and environmental bacteriology. To be relevant, investigation of biofilm behavior requires effective and reliable techniques. We present herein a simple and robust method, adapted from the microplate technique, in which steam is used as a soft washing method to preserve biofilm integrity and to improve reproducibility of biofilm quantification. The kinetics of steam washing indicated that the method is adapted to remove both planktonic bacteria and excess crystal violet (CV) staining for S. aureus, S. epidermidis, S. carnosus, P. aeruginosa, and E. coli biofilm. Confocal laser scanning microscopy confirmed that steam washing preserved the integrity of the biofilm better than pipette-based washing. We also investigated the measurement of the turbidity of biofilm resuspended in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) as an alternative to staining with CV. This approach allows the discrimination of biofilm producer strains from non-biofilm producer strains in a way similar to CV staining, and subsequently permits quantification of viable bacteria present in biofilm by culture enumeration from the same well. Biofilm quantification using steam washing and PBS turbidity reduced the technical time needed, and data were highly reproducible.
An adjustment in BMP4 function represents a treatment for diabetic nephropathy and podocyte injury
Authors: Fujita Yui , Tominaga Tatsuya , Abe Hideharu , Kangawa Yumi , Fukushima Naoshi , Ueda Otoya , Jishage Kou-ichi , Kishi Seiji , Murakami Taichi , Saga Yumiko , Kanwar Yashpal S. , Nagai Kojiro , Doi Toshio
Published: August 2018

Podocyte injury has been proposed to play an important role in diabetic nephropathy; however, its pathological mechanism remains unclear. We have shown that bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) signaling leads to the glomerular changes characteristic of this disorder. To analyze the molecular mechanism of podocyte injury, the effect of BMP4 was investigated using streptozotocin (STZ)-induced, Bmp4 heterozygous knockout (Bmp4+/−) and podocyte-specific Bmp4 knockout mice. Mice with STZ-induced diabetes exhibited glomerular matrix hyperplasia and decreased numbers of podocyte nucleus-specific WT1-positive cells. The number of podocytes and proteinuria were improved in both diabetic Bmp4 knockout mouse models compared to the effects observed in the control mice. The effect of BMP4 overexpression on Bmp4-induced or podocyte-specific transgenic mice was examined. Tamoxifen-induced Bmp4-overexpressing mice exhibited mesangial matrix expansion and decreased numbers of WT1-positive cells. Podocyte-specific Bmp4-overexpressing mice displayed increased kidney BMP4 expression and mesangial matrix expansion but decreased nephrin expression and numbers of WT1-positive cells. Both lines of Bmp4-overexpressing mice exhibited increased albuminuria. In cultured podocytes, BMP4 increased phospho-p38 levels. BMP4 decreased nephrin expression but increased cleaved caspase-3 levels. p38 suppression inhibited caspase-3 activation. Apoptosis was confirmed in STZ-diabetic glomeruli and Bmp4-overexpressing mice. Bmp4 +/− mice with diabetes displayed reduced apoptosis. Based on these data, the BMP4 signaling pathway plays important roles in the development of both podocyte injury and mesangial matrix expansion in diabetic nephropathy.
Phytolith analysis for differentiating between broomcorn millet (Panicum miliaceum) and its weed/feral type (Panicum ruderale)
Authors: Zhang Jianping , Lu Houyuan , Liu Minxuan , Diao Xianmin , Shao Konglan , Wu Naiqin
Published: August 2018

Domestication of broomcorn millet (Panicum miliaceum) is one of the most significant events in prehistoric East Asia, providing sufficient food supply for the explosive growth of Neolithic populations and the transition into complex societies. However, to date, the process of broomcorn millet domestication is still largely unknown, partly due to the lack of clear diagnostic tools for distinguishing between millet and its related wild grasses in archaeological samples. Here, we examined the percentage of silicified epidermal long-cell undulated patterns in the glume and palea from inflorescence bracts in 21 modern varieties of broomcorn millet and 12 weed/feral-type Panicum ruderale collected across northern China. Our results show that the percentage of ηIII patterns in domesticated broomcorn millet (23.0% ± 5.9%; n = 63) is about 10% higher than in P. ruderale (10.8% ± 5.8%; n = 36), with quartiles of 17.2–28.3% and 5.1–15.5%, respectively. Owing to the increase in ηIII pattern percentage correlates significantly with a decrease in the grain length/width ratio, in the absence of exact wild ancestors of broomcorn millet, the characterization of phytolith differences between P. ruderale and P. miliaceum thus becomes an alternative approach to provide insight into origin of broomcorn millet.
Experimentally validated full-vectorial model of wavelength multicasting via four-wave mixing in straight waveguides
Authors: Guo Kai , Feng Jiacheng , Shi Xiaodong , Li Jiehui , Gao Minghong , Jing Hui , Wang Xiaolin , Yang Junbo , Ou Haiyan
Published: August 2018

We derive full-vectorial nonlinear propagation equations of dual-pumped four-wave mixing in straight waveguides, which are valid in characterizing the one-to-six wavelength multicasting. Special attention is paid to the resulting idler wavelengths and their conversion efficiency, which enables the optimization of the experimental designs, including the incident wavelength and the power of pumps and signal. We validate the model by comparing the numerical simulation to the experimental measurement in a silicon-on-insulator waveguide, for the first time to our best knowledge, and achieve a good agreement. We further derive the general form of the proposed model for the case of using multiple,pumps, which holds a potential to numerically predict the performance of complex wavelength multicasting, and essentially guide the waveguide designs.
The surface reactivity of iron oxide nanoparticles as a potential hazard for aquatic environments: A study on Daphnia magna adults and embryos
Authors: Magro Massimiliano , De Liguoro Marco , Franzago Eleonora , Baratella Davide , Vianello Fabio
Published: August 2018

Nano-ecotoxicology is extensively debated and nanomaterial surface reactivity is an emerging topic. Iron oxide nanoparticles are widely applied, with organic or inorganic coatings for stabilizing their suspensions. Surface active maghemite nanoparticles (SAMNs) are the unique example of naked iron oxide displaying high colloidal and structural stability in water and chemical reactivity. The colloidal behavior of SAMNs was studied as a function of the medium salinity and protocols of acute and chronic toxicity on Daphnia magna were consequently adapted. SAMN distribution into the crustacean, intake/depletion rates and swimming performances were evaluated. No sign of toxicity was detected in two model organisms from the first trophic level (P. subcapitata and L. minor). In D. magna, acute EC50 values of SAMN was assessed, while no sub-lethal effects were observed and the accumulation of SAMNs in the gut appeared as the sole cause of mortality. Fast depuration and absence of delayed effects indicated no retention of SAMNs within the organism. In spite of negligible toxicity on D. magna adults, SAMN surface reactivity was responsible of membrane bursting and lethality on embryos. The present study offers a contribution to the nascent knowledge concerning the impact of nanoparticle surface reactivity on biological interfaces.
Whole grain intake associated molecule 5-aminovaleric acid betaine decreases β-oxidation of fatty acids in mouse cardiomyocytes
Authors: Kärkkäinen Olli , Tuomainen Tomi , Koistinen Ville , Tuomainen Marjo , Leppänen Jukka , Laitinen Tuomo , Lehtonen Marko , Rysä Jaana , Auriola Seppo , Poso Antti , Tavi Pasi , Hanhineva Kati
Published: August 2018

Despite epidemiological evidence showing that diets rich in whole grains reduce the risk of chronic life-style related diseases, biological mechanisms for these positive effects are mostly unknown. Increased 5-aminovaleric acid betaine (5-AVAB) levels in plasma and metabolically active tissues such as heart have been associated with consumption of diets rich in whole grains. However, biological effects of 5-AVAB are poorly understood. We evaluated 5-AVAB concentrations in human and mouse heart tissue (3–22 µM and 38–78 µM, respectively) using mass spectrometry. We show that 5-AVAB, at physiological concentration range, dose-dependently inhibits oxygen consumption due to β-oxidation of fatty acids, but does not otherwise compromise mitochondrial respiration, as measured with oxygen consumption rate in cultured mouse primary cardiomyocytes. We also demonstrate that this effect is caused by 5-AVAB induced reduction of cellular L-carnitine. Reduced L-carnitine levels are at least partly mediated by the inhibition of cell membrane carnitine transporter (OCTN2) as evaluated by in silico docking, and by siRNA mediated silencing of OCTN2 in cultured cardiomyocytes. 5-AVAB caused inhibition of β-oxidation of fatty acids is a novel mechanism on how diets rich in whole grains may regulate energy metabolism in the body. Elucidating potentially beneficial effects of 5-AVAB e.g. on cardiac physiology will require further in vivo investigations.
Low-Salt or Salt-Free Dyeing of Cotton Fibers with Reactive Dyes using Liposomes as Dyeing/Level-Dyeing Promotors
Authors: Ru Jidong , Qian Xueren , Wang Ying
Published: August 2018

The main aim of this investigation was to promote the dyeing and level-dyeing effect of reactive dyes on cotton-fiber dyeing by encapsulating reactive dyes in liposomes as an alternative to sodium chloride. The results obtained indicated that liposomes, especially cationic liposomes, have a remarkable level-dyeing promoting effect on cotton fibers, although the dyeing promoting effect was not as good as that of sodium chloride. The optimum dyeing and level-dyeing effects were achieved at a dye-fixing temperature of 85 °C, sodium carbonate concentration of 10 g/L and dye dosage of 2% (on the basis of oven-dry cotton fibers) when liposomes were used as the dyeing and level-dyeing promoters. The combination of cationic liposomes and sodium chloride can significantly promote both the dyeing and level-dyeing of cotton fibers. These results indicated the potential of cationic liposomes as novel dyeing and level-dyeing promoters or microencapsulated dye wall materials for reactive-dye dyeing applications.
Prolonged co-treatment with HGF sustains epithelial integrity and improves pharmacological rescue of Phe508del-CFTR
Authors: Matos Ana M. , Gomes-Duarte Andreia , Faria Márcia , Barros Patrícia , Jordan Peter , Amaral Margarida D. , Matos Paulo
Published: August 2018

Cystic fibrosis (CF), the most common inherited disease in Caucasians, is caused by mutations in the CFTR chloride channel, the most frequent of which is Phe508del. Phe508del causes not only intracellular retention and premature degradation of the mutant CFTR protein, but also defective channel gating and decreased half-life when experimentally rescued to the plasma membrane (PM). Despite recent successes in the functional rescue of several CFTR mutations with small-molecule drugs, the folding-corrector/gating-potentiator drug combinations approved for Phe508del-CFTR homozygous patients have shown only modest benefit. Several factors have been shown to contribute to this outcome, including an unexpected intensification of corrector-rescued Phe508del-CFTR PM instability after persistent co-treatment with potentiator drugs. We have previously shown that acute co-treatment with hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) can significantly enhance the chemical correction of Phe508del-CFTR. HGF coaxes the anchoring of rescued channels to the actin cytoskeleton via induction of RAC1 GTPase signalling. Here, we demonstrate that a prolonged, 15-day HGF treatment also significantly improves the functional rescue of Phe508del-CFTR by the VX-809 corrector/VX-770 potentiator combination, in polarized bronchial epithelial monolayers. Importantly, we found that HGF treatment also prevented VX-770-mediated destabilization of rescued Phe508del-CFTR and enabled further potentiation of the rescued channels. Most strikingly, prolonged HGF treatment prevented previously unrecognized epithelial dedifferentiation effects of sustained exposure to VX-809. This was observed in epithelium-like monolayers from both lung and intestinal origin, representing the two systems most affected by adverse symptoms in patients treated with VX-809 or the VX-809/VX-770 combination. Taken together, our findings strongly suggest that co-administration of HGF with corrector/potentiator drugs could be beneficial for CF patients.
A simple fluorescence biosensing strategy for ultrasensitive detection of the BCR–ABL1 fusion gene based on a DNA machine and multiple primer-like rolling circle amplification
Authors: Wu Haiping , Zhou Xiaoyan , Cheng Wei , Yuan Taixian , Zhao Min , Duan Xiaolei , Ding Shijia
Published: August 2018

A one-step, rapid fluorescence biosensing method has been developed for ultrasensitive detection of BCR–ABL1 fusion gene based on a DNA machine and multiple primer-like rolling circle amplification.
Multiplex detection of urinary miRNA biomarkers by transmission surface plasmon resonance
Authors: Yeung Wing Kiu , Chen Huai-Yi , Sun Juan-Jie , Hsieh Tung-Han , Mousavi Mansoureh Z. , Chen Hsi-Hsien , Lee Kuang-Li , Lin Heng , Wei Pei-Kuen , Cheng Ji-Yen
Published: August 2018

The clinical assessment of short-stranded nucleic acid biomarkers such as miRNAs could potentially provide useful information for monitoring disease progression, prompting definitive treatment decisions.
Antimicrobial peptide modification enhances the gene delivery and bactericidal efficiency of gold nanoparticles for accelerating diabetic wound healing
Authors: Wang Song , Yan Chang , Zhang Ximu , Shi Dezhi , Chi Luxiang , Luo Gaoxing , Deng Jun
Published: August 2018

Impaired angiogenesis and bacterial infection have increasingly been implicated as the major causes of delayed diabetic wound healing.
2-D porous Ni3N–Co3N hybrids derived from ZIF-67/Ni(OH)2 sheets as a magnetically separable catalyst for hydrogenation reactions
Authors: Zhang Lin , Wu Aiping , Tian Mei , Xiao Yinglu , Shi Xia , Yan Haijing , Tian Chungui , Fu Honggang
Published: August 2018

The synergistic nitridation of Ni(OH)2 and ZIF-67 during the treatment of ZIF-67/Ni(OH)2 sheets is demonstrated to be important to forming 2-D porous Ni3N–Co3N hybrids that can be used as a magnetically separable catalyst for hydrogenation reactions.
Core–shell structured titanium dioxide nanomaterials for solar energy utilization
Authors: Li Wei , Elzatahry Ahmed , Aldhayan Dhaifallah , Zhao Dongyuan
Published: August 2018

This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of major advances in core–shell structured TiO2nanomaterials for solar energy utilization.
Synthesis and photophysical properties of imine borane adducts towards vapochromic materials
Authors: Soltani Yashar , Adams Samuel J. , Börger Jennifer , Wilkins Lewis C. , Newman Paul D. , Pope Simon J. A. , Melen Rebecca L.
Published: August 2018

A series of alkynyl aryl conjugated aldehydes and imines were prepared and their adducts with various Lewis acidic boranes have been studied via NMR, absorption, and luminescence spectroscopies in solution.
Amino-nitramino functionalized triazolotriazines: a good balance between high energy and low sensitivity
Authors: Ma Jinchao , Cheng Guangbin , Ju Xuehai , Yi Zhenxin , Zhu Shunguan , Zhang Zaichao , Yang Hongwei
Published: August 2018

Amino-nitramino functionalized triazolotriazines with high-energy content and low sensitivity are reported, presenting a potential design concept for high-performance insensitive energetic materials.
Plastic waste as a feedstock for solar-driven H2 generation
Authors: Uekert Taylor , Kuehnel Moritz F. , Wakerley David W. , Reisner Erwin
Published: August 2018

Plastic waste is recycled to hydrogen using sunlight and a CdS photocatalyst.
Bottom-up approaches for material and device designing using practical aspects of self-assembled molecular architectures
Authors: Ohtake Toshihiro
Published: August 2018

Self-assembly is an ordered form of spontaneous molecular organizationviaspecific inter- or intramolecular interactions.
Targeting metals rescues the phenotype in an animal model of tauopathy
Authors: Sedjahtera Amelia , Gunawan Lydia , Bray Lisa , Hung Lin Wai , Parsons Jack , Okamura Nobuyuki , Villemagne Victor L. , Yanai Kazuhiko , Liu Xiang M. , Chan Jacky , Bush Ashley I. , Finkelstein David I. , Barnham Kevin J. , Cherny Robert A. , Adlard Paul A.
Published: August 2018

Targeting metals improves the behavioural, anatomical and biochemical phenotype present in a mouse model of tauopathy.
Crystallographic evidence for unexpected selective tyrosine hydroxylations in an aerated achiral Ru–papain conjugate
Authors: Cherrier Mickaël V , Amara Patricia , Talbi Barisa , Salmain Michèle , Fontecilla-Camps Juan C
Published: August 2018

The X-ray structure of an aerated achiral Ru–papain conjugate has revealed the hydroxylation of two tyrosine residues found near the ruthenium ion. The most likely mechanism involves a ruthenium-bound superoxide as the reactive species responsible for the first hydroxylation and the resulting high valent Ru(iv)˭O species for the second one.
Selective and sensitive detection of cysteine in water and live cells using a coumarin–Cu2+ fluorescent ensemble
Authors: Wang Yue , Meng Qingtao , Han Qian , He Guangjie , Hu Yaoyun , Feng Huan , Jia Hongmin , Zhang Run , Zhang Zhiqiang
Published: August 2018

A coumarin–Cu2+ ensemble based fluorescent chemosensor was developed for the selective detection of cysteine in aqueous media and live cells.
Delivery of thrombolytic therapy using rod-shaped plant viral nanoparticles decreases the risk of hemorrhage
Authors: Pitek Andrzej S. , Park Jooneon , Wang Yunmei , Gao Huiyun , Hu He , Simon Daniel I. , Steinmetz Nicole F.
Published: August 2018

Tobacco mosaic viral delivery of thrombolytics increases safety profile of the therapy.
A DNA–nanoparticle actuator enabling optical monitoring of nanoscale movements induced by an electric field
Authors: Tapio Kosti , Shao Dongkai , Auer Sanna , Tuppurainen Jussipekka , Ahlskog Markus , Hytönen Vesa P. , Toppari J. Jussi
Published: August 2018

Merging biological and non-biological matter to fabricate nanoscale assemblies with controllable motion and function is of great interest due to its potential application for example in diagnostics and biosensing.
A glycoluril dimer–triptycene hybrid receptor: synthesis and molecular recognition properties
Authors: Liu Wenjin , Lu Xiaoyong , Meng Zihui , Isaacs Lyle
Published: August 2018

We report the preparation of methylene bridged glycoluril dimer 1 bearing two triptycene walls and its function as a host toward hydrophobic cations in water.
Studies toward the synthesis of strevertenes A and G: stereoselective construction of C1–C19segments of the molecules
Authors: Kuilya Tapan Kumar , Das Subhendu , Saha Dhiman , Goswami Rajib Kumar
Published: August 2018

Efficient route for the stereoselective synthesis of common C1–C19segment of strevertenes A and G has been developed.
Dewatering of drilling sludge by ultrasound assisted Fe(ii)-activated persulfate oxidation
Authors: Liu Liyan , Yan Hao , Yang Chao , Zhu Guorui
Published: August 2018

An ultrasound assisted Fe(ii)-activated persulfate oxidation method was put forward to improve the dewaterability of drilling sludge in this research.
Efficiency difference between furan- and thiophene-based D–π–A dyes in DSSCs explained by theoretical calculations
Authors: Jin Xingyi , Sun Libo , Li Dongyuan , Wang Cheng-Long , Bai Fu-Quan
Published: August 2018

The performance of two D–π–A type phenothiazine dyes bearing different π-bridges (furan and thiophene) was investigated by DFT and TDDFT to explore the reasons for the differences in DSSC efficiency.
Anti-tumor effect of HOTAIR–miR-613-SNAI2 axis through suppressing EMT and drug resistance in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhou Jing-chun , Zhang Jing-jing , Ma Wei , Zhang Wei , Ke Zhao-yang , Ma Ling-guo
Published: August 2018

Laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) is the main pathological type of laryngeal cancer, which attacks the head and neck.
Tracking intramolecular energy redistribution dynamics in aryl halides: the effect of halide mass
Authors: Liu Xiaosong , Song Yunfei , Zhang Wei , Zhu Gangbei , Lv Zhe , Liu Weilong , Yang Yanqiang
Published: August 2018

Selective excitation of C–H, C–C, CX1 and CX2 modes in an orderly manner, detection of intramolecular energy redistribution in aryl halides are performed by time- and frequency-resolved Coherent Anti-Stokes Raman Scattering (CARS) spectroscopy.
Effects of stacking method and strain on the electronic properties of the few-layer group-IVA monochalcogenide heterojunctions
Authors: Hu Yonghong , Mao Caixia , Yan Zhong , Shu Ting , Ni Hao , Xue Li , Wu Yunyi
Published: August 2018

We studied the effect of stacking method and biaxial strain on the electronic properties of the few-layer group-IV monochalcogenides heterojunction.
Tuning the porosity and surface characteristics of nanoporous titania using non-ionic surfactant reverse micelles
Authors: Paschalidou Polyxeni , Theocharis Charis R.
Published: August 2018

Nanoporous titania was prepared from non-ionic reverse micelles, and the effects of chain length and calcination temperature of the mother gels were investigated.
Improved thermal properties of epoxy resin modified with polymethyl methacrylate-microencapsulated phosphorus-nitrogen-containing flame retardant
Authors: Qu Lijie , Zhang Chunling , Li Peihong , Dai Xueyan , Xu Tianlu , Sui Yanlong , Gu Jinjia , Dou Yanli
Published: August 2018

Epoxy resin composites with improved thermal resistance and flame retardancy were fabricated based on P(H) microcapsules.
Phosphorus doped SnO2 thin films for transparent conducting oxide applications: synthesis, optoelectronic properties and computational models
Authors: Powell Michael J. , Williamson Benjamin A. D. , Baek Song-Yi , Manzi Joe , Potter Dominic B. , Scanlon David O. , Carmalt Claire J.
Published: August 2018

Phosphorus doped tin(iv) oxide (P:SnO2) films, with resistivity values of 7.27 × 10−4 Ω cm and improved visible light transmission, have been synthesised by AACVD.
[P4H]+[Al(OTeF5)4]−: protonation of white phosphorus with the Brønsted superacid H[Al(OTeF5)4](solv)
Authors: Wiesner Anja , Steinhauer Simon , Beckers Helmut , Müller Christian , Riedel Sebastian
Published: August 2018

The structure of protonated white phosphorus in solution has been revealed for the first time.
Smart composite films of nanometric thickness based on copper–iodine coordination polymers. Toward sensors
Authors: Conesa-Egea Javier , Nogal Noemí , Martínez José Ignacio , Fernández-Moreira Vanesa , Rodríguez-Mendoza Ulises R. , González-Platas Javier , Gómez-García Carlos J. , Delgado Salomé , Zamora Félix , Amo-Ochoa Pilar
Published: August 2018

Multistimuli-responsive composite films with nanometric thickness based on Cu(i)–I coordination polymers.
Preventing the coffee-ring effect and aggregate sedimentation by in situ gelation of monodisperse materials
Authors: Li Huaiguang , Buesen Darren , Williams Rhodri , Henig Joerg , Stapf Stefanie , Mukherjee Kallol , Freier Erik , Lubitz Wolfgang , Winkler Martin , Happe Thomas , Plumeré Nicolas
Published: August 2018

Microscale uniformity and long-range cohesion in multi-functional films assembled through drop-casting is realized by in situ gelation of monodisperse building blocks.
Efficiently texturing hierarchical superhydrophobic fluoride-free translucent films by AACVD with excellent durability and self-cleaning ability
Authors: Li Shuhui , Page Kristopher , Sathasivam Sanjayan , Heale Frances , He Guanjie , Lu Yao , Lai Yuekun , Chen Guoqiang , Carmalt Claire J. , Parkin Ivan P.
Published: August 2018

Robust fluoride-free translucent superhydrophobic coatings were constructed on glass surfaces via one-step aerosol-assisted chemical vapour deposition technique. There are 9 bounce cycles observed on such hierarchically structured surfaces, which exhibited excellent self-cleaning ability.
TiO2 nanoparticles–reduced graphene oxide hybrid: an efficient and durable electrocatalyst toward artificial N2 fixation to NH3 under ambient conditions
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxue , Liu Qin , Shi Xifeng , Asiri Abdullah M. , Luo Yonglan , Sun Xuping , Li Tingshuai
Published: August 2018

TiO2–rGO is a superior catalyst for electrochemical N2 fixation to NH3 in 0.1 M Na2SO4, achieving a high FE of 3.3% with a NH3 yield of 15.13 μg h−1 mgcat.−1.
Safe preparation, energetic performance and reaction mechanism of corrosion-resistant Al/PVDF nanocomposite films
Authors: Ke Xiang , Guo Shuangfeng , Zhang Gensheng , Zhou Xiang , Xiao Lei , Hao Gazi , Wang Ning , Jiang Wei
Published: August 2018

Flexible Al/PVDF nanoenergetic film prepared by vacuum freeze-drying, possesses hydrophobicity, corrosion-resistant properties as well as outstanding energetic performances.
Sulfonated graphene oxide-decorated block copolymer as a proton-exchange membrane: improving the ion selectivity for all-vanadium redox flow batteries
Authors: Aziz Md. Abdul , Shanmugam Sangaraju
Published: August 2018

A SPEKS/sGO composite membrane with superior ion selectivity and chemical stability was synthesized. The composite and pristine SPEKS membranes exhibited a 10.4- and 6.5-times greater self-discharge time compared with the commercial Nafion-212 membrane.
A pyrazine-incorporated graphdiyne nanofilm as a metal-free electrocatalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Sakamoto Ryota , Shiotsuki Ryo , Wada Keisuke , Fukui Naoya , Maeda Hiroaki , Komeda Joe , Sekine Ryosuke , Harano Koji , Nishihara Hiroshi
Published: August 2018

A graphdiyne analogue featuring pyrazine as the aromatic center was synthesized under air using a liquid/liquid interfacial synthesis. It served as a metal-free electrocatalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) from water.
Elastic serum-albumin based hydrogels: mechanism of formation and application in cardiac tissue engineering
Authors: Amdursky Nadav , Mazo Manuel M. , Thomas Michael R. , Humphrey Eleanor J. , Puetzer Jennifer L. , St-Pierre Jean-Philippe , Skaalure Stacey C. , Richardson Robert M. , Terracciano Cesare M. , Stevens Molly M.
Published: August 2018

The simplicity of making hydrogels with tunable mechanical properties from commercially available proteins is demonstrated for cardiac tissue engineering.
Non-peptidic guanidinium-functionalized silica nanoparticles as selective mitochondria-targeting drug nanocarriers
Authors: Ahn Junho , Lee Boeun , Choi Yeonweon , Jin Hanyong , Lim Na Young , Park Jaehyeon , Kim Ju Hyun , Bae Jeehyeon , Jung Jong Hwa
Published: August 2018

Non-peptidic guanidinium derivative-functionalized nanoparticle as a drug nanocarrier possessing unprecedentedly high mitochondria-targeting efficiency in HeLa cell was developed.
Extremely large magnetoresistance in the nonmagnetic semimetal YBi
Authors: Qian B. , Tang F. , Ruan Y. R. , Fang Y. , Han Z. D. , Jiang X. F. , Zhang J.-M. , Chen S. Y. , Wang D. H.
Published: August 2018

Extreme magnetoresistance in nonmagnetic compounds has received considerable attention because this phenomenon challenges the classical understanding of electron transport under a magnetic field.
BiOBr-assisted hydrothermal synthesis of hierarchical Bi4(GeO4)3/Zn2GeO4 microspheres for optical sensor application
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Xu Yan , Wang Zhuopeng , Zhang Xia , Xia Zhiguo
Published: August 2018

Dual-emitting hierarchical Bi4(GeO4)3/Zn2GeO4 hybrid microspheres have been prepared and developed for optical sensor applications.
Thermally activated delayed fluorescence sensitizer for D–A–A type emitters with orange-red light emission
Authors: Wang Ya-Kun , Huang Chen-Chao , Kumar Sarvendra , Li Si-Hua , Dong Zhi-Liang , Fung Man-Keung , Jiang Zuo-Quan , Liao Liang-Sheng
Published: August 2018

Two novel red emitters were integrated with a thermally activated delayed fluorescence sensitizer to achieve highly efficient red organic light-emitting diodes.
Metal oxide double layer capacitors by electrophoretic deposition of metal oxides. Fabrication, electrical characterization and defect analysis using positron annihilation spectroscopy
Authors: Hoffmann Rudolf C. , Koslowski Nico , Sanctis Shawn , Liedke Maciej O. , Wagner Andreas , Butterling Maik , Schneider Jörg J.
Published: August 2018

Electrophoretic deposition provides an attractive access to semiconductor/conductor bilayers which can be complemented to functional devices like MOS capacitors.
XPG rs873601 G>A contributes to uterine leiomyoma susceptibility in a Southern Chinese population
Authors: Liu Zhi-Qin , Chen Guan-Ge , Sun Ru-Liang , Chen Chao , Lu Mei-Yin , Guan Lan-Fang , Chi Xiao-Ling , Jian You-Qiang , Zhu Xiu , Liu Rui-Qi , Cai Bo-Yu , Chen Fang-Fang , Liu Bin
Published: August 2018

XPG gene contributes to DNA repair defects and genomic instability, which may lead to the initiation of uterine leiomyoma. We hypothesized that genetic variants of XPG gene may alter the carriers’ susceptibility to leiomyoma. The association between five potential functional single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), i.e. rs2094258 C>T, rs751402 C>T, rs2296147 T>C, rs1047768 T>C, rs873601 G>A, and uterine leiomyoma risk in Chinese, was investigated in this case–control study, which included 398 incident leiomyoma cases and 733 controls. We found that rs873601 was significantly associated with tumor risk in a recessive genetic model after being adjusting for age and menopause. When compared with rs873601 GG/GA genotypes, the AA genotype had an increased leiomyoma risk (adjusted OR = 1.59, 95% CI = 1.16–2.18, P=0.004; Bonferroni adjusted P=0.040). Furthermore, stratified analysis revealed that the association between the rs873601 AA genotype and leiomyoma risk was more evident among subjects younger than 40 years old (adjusted OR = 1.58, 95% CI = 1.06–2.35, P=0.023) and patients who had more than three myomas (adjusted OR = 2.05, 95% CI = 1.24–3.41, P=0.006). Yet, no significant association between the other four polymorphisms and leiomyoma risk was observed. To sum up, the present study reported on the association between XPG gene polymorphisms and myoma risk. The observed data indicated that SNP rs873601 G>A contributes to uterine leiomyoma susceptibility in a Southern Chinese population.
Endodontic guided treatment using augmented reality on a head‐mounted display system
Authors: Song Tianyu , Yang Chenglin , Dianat Omid , Azimi Ehsan
Published: August 2018

Endodontic treatment is performed to treat inflamed or infected root canal system of any involved teeth. It is estimated that 22.3 million endodontic procedures are performed annually in the USA. Preparing a proper access cavity before cleaning/shaping (instrumentation) of the root canal system is among the most important steps to achieve a successful treatment outcome. However, accidents such as perforation, gouging, ledge and canal transportation may occur during the procedure because of an improper or incomplete access cavity design. To reduce or prevent these errors in root canal treatments, this Letter introduces an assistive augmented reality (AR) technology on the head‐mounted display (HMD). The proposed system provides audiovisual warning and correction in situ on the optical see‐through HMD to assist the dentists to prepare access cavity. Interaction of the clinician with the system is via voice commands allowing the bi‐manual operation. Also, dentist is able to review tooth radiographs during the procedure without the need to divert attention away from the patient and look at a separate monitor. Experiments are performed to evaluate the accuracy of the measurements. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first time that an HMD‐based AR prototype is introduced for an endodontic procedure.
Endoscopic image enhancement with noise suppression
Authors: Xia Wenyao , Chen Elvis C.S. , Peters Terry
Published: August 2018

Stereoscopic endoscopes have been used increasingly in minimally invasive surgery to visualise the organ surface and manipulate various surgical tools. However, insufficient and irregular light sources become major challenges for endoscopic surgery. Not only do these conditions hinder image processing algorithms, sometimes surgical tools are barely visible when operating within low‐light regions. In addition, low‐light regions have low signal‐to‐noise ratio and metrication artefacts due to quantisation errors. As a result, present image enhancement methods usually suffer from heavy noise amplification in low‐light regions. In this Letter, the authors propose an effective method for endoscopic image enhancement by identifying different illumination regions and designing the enhancement design criteria for desired image quality. Compared with existing image enhancement methods, the proposed method is able to enhance the low‐light region while preventing noise amplification during image enhancement process. The proposed method is tested with 200 images acquired by endoscopic surgeries. Computed results show that the proposed algorithm can outperform state‐of‐the‐art algorithms for image enhancement, in terms of naturalness image quality evaluator and illumination index.
Augmented reality in computer‐assisted interventions based on patient‐specific 3D printed reference
Authors: Moreta‐Martinez Rafael , García‐Mato David , García‐Sevilla Mónica , Pérez‐Mañanes Rubén , Calvo‐Haro José , Pascau Javier
Published: August 2018

Augmented reality (AR) can be an interesting technology for clinical scenarios as an alternative to conventional surgical navigation. However, the registration between augmented data and real‐world spaces is a limiting factor. In this study, the authors propose a method based on desktop three‐dimensional (3D) printing to create patient‐specific tools containing a visual pattern that enables automatic registration. This specific tool fits on the patient only in the location it was designed for, avoiding placement errors. This solution has been developed as a software application running on Microsoft HoloLens. The workflow was validated on a 3D printed phantom replicating the anatomy of a patient presenting an extraosseous Ewing's sarcoma, and then tested during the actual surgical intervention. The application allowed physicians to visualise the skin, bone and tumour location overlaid on the phantom and patient. This workflow could be extended to many clinical applications in the surgical field and also for training and simulation, in cases where hard body structures are involved. Although the authors have tested their workflow on AR head mounted display, they believe that a similar approach can be applied to other devices such as tablets or smartphones.
Positive filter design for positive piecewise homogeneous Markovian jump T–S fuzzy system
Authors: Zhang Di , Zhang Qingling , Du Baozhu
Published: August 2018

This study introduces a problem of positive filter design for positive piecewise homogeneous Markovian jump Takagi–Sugeno (T–S) fuzzy systems. The difference between the existing achievements is that the considered transition rate of the positive Markovian jump system is time‐varying. This time‐varying nature is finite piecewise homogeneous. The time variation of the transition rate is characterised by two cases: stochastic variation and arbitrary variation. First of all, sufficient conditions are obtained for stochastic stability and performance under the transition rate in a manner of stochastic variation and arbitrary variation by means of choosing a linear co‐positive Lyapunov function. Then, based on the obtained achievements, the problem of positive filter design for the positive piecewise homogeneous Markovian jump T–S fuzzy system is studied. All the mentioned problems in this study can be solved by linear programming. Finally, a biological model is proposed to illustrate the effectiveness of theoretical results.
Beam‐ and polarisation‐reconfigurable SIW ring‐slot antenna array
Authors: Vasina Petr , Mikulasek Tomas , Lacik Jaroslav , Arthaber Holger
Published: August 2018

A beam‐ and polarisation‐reconfigurable substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) ring‐slot antenna array is proposed in this study. The ring‐slot antenna array can generate beams in four different directions in two orthogonal linear polarisations (LPs). This is achieved by a feeding network consisting of four SIW 3 dB couplers arranged in a multilayer structure for a compact antenna size of 131.6 mm × 65.8 mm × 4.9 mm. The antenna elements’ LP plane is controlled by PIN diodes, switched by a DC bias network integrated on the antenna substrate. The proposed antenna array is designed for the 5.8 GHz industrial, scientific and medical (ISM) frequency band and verified by measurements. Experimental results validate good impedance matching over the entire frequency band as well as the beam and polarisation reconfigurability.
Tri‐band planar monopole antenna with two circularly polarised bandwidths for WiMAX applications
Authors: Gyasi Kwame Oteng , Wen Guangjun , Inserra Daniele , Huang Yongjun , Ampoma Emmanuel Affum , Li Jian , Basit Muhammad Abdul , Zhang Hao Bin
Published: August 2018

A tri‐band planar monopole antenna with one linearly polarised band, two circularly polarised bands, and bidirectional radiation patterns is presented in this study. The antenna consists of a monopole with seven arms etched on the top side of a FR4 substrate, and a slitted ground plane on the bottom side. Measured results show that the antenna has a S11<−10 dB impedance bandwidth of 9.7% (2.05–2.26 GHz) for the lower band, 11.3% (3.41–3.82 GHz) for the middle band, and 60.2% (4.89–9.11 GHz) for the upper band. The circular polarisation (CP) is radiated within the middle (left hand CP) and the upper (right hand CP) bands, and the measured broadside 3 dB axial ratio bandwidths are 4.9% (3.53–3.71 GHz) and 58.6% GHz (4.69–8.58 GHz), respectively. The proposed antenna has a total size of 25 × 35 × 1.6 mm3 and can be employed for the 2.1 GHz UMTS, whereas the CP bands can be used for the 3.5/5.5 GHz WiMAX, 5.5 GHz Wi‐Fi, and 5.2/5.8 GHz WLAN applications.
The spectacular cluster chain Abell 781 as observed with LOFAR, GMRT, and XMM-Newton
Authors: Botteon A. , Shimwell T. W. , Bonafede A. , Dallacasa D. , Gastaldello F. , Eckert D. , Brunetti G. , Venturi T. , van Weeren R. J. , Mandal S. , Brüggen M. , Cassano R. , de Gasperin F. , Drabent A. , Dumba C. , Intema H. T. , Hoang D. N. , Rafferty D. , Röttgering H. J. A. , Savini F. , Shulevski A. , Stroe A. , Wilber A.
Published: August 2018

Context. A number of merging galaxy clusters show the presence of large-scale radio emission associated with the intra-cluster medium (ICM). These synchrotron sources are generally classified as radio haloes and radio relics.

Aims. Whilst it is commonly accepted that mergers play a crucial role in the formation of radio haloes and relics, not all the merging clusters show the presence of giant diffuse radio sources and this provides important information concerning current models. The Abell 781 complex is a spectacular system composed of an apparent chain of clusters on the sky. Its main component is undergoing a merger and hosts peripheral emission that is classified as a candidate radio relic and a disputed radio halo.

Methods. We used new LOw Frequency ARay (LOFAR) observations at 143 MHz and archival Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT) observations at 325 and 610 MHz to study radio emission from non-thermal components in the ICM of Abell 781. Complementary information came from XMM-Newton data, which allowed us to investigate the connection with the thermal emission and its complex morphology.

Results. The origin of the peripheral emission is still uncertain. We speculate that it is related to the interaction between a head tail radio galaxy and shock. However, the current data allow us only to set an upper limit of ℳ <  1.4 on the Mach number of this putative shock. Instead, we successfully characterise the surface brightness and temperature jumps of a shock and two cold fronts in the main cluster component of Abell 781. Their positions suggest that the merger is involving three substructures. We do not find any evidence for a radio halo either at the centre of this system or in the other clusters of the chain. We place an upper limit to the diffuse radio emission in the main cluster of Abell 781 that is a factor of 2 below the current radio power-mass relation for giant radio haloes.
Management und Abrechnung der BK 5103 − Tipps und Tricks
Authors: Wehrmann W. , John S. , Skudlik C.
Published: August 2018

Aufgrund des sich aus der Aufnahme der Berufskrankheit Nr. 5103 „Plattenepithelkarzinome oder multiple aktinische Keratosen der Haut durch natürliche UV-Strahlung“ in die Berufskrankheitenliste ergebenden Bedarfs der Versorgung von Patienten mit beruflich verursachtem Hautkrebs in der hautärztlichen Praxis, wurden seitens der ständigen Gebührenkommission neue Gebührennummern für die UV-GOÄ beschlossen. Diese neuen Gebührennummern bieten nunmehr den behandelnden Dermatologen von Patienten mit berufsbedingtem Hautkrebs einschließlich von aktinischen Keratosen bzw. Feldkanzerisierung Sicherheit in der Abrechnung und eine leistungsbezogene Vergütung.
Chiral VAPOL Imidodiphosphoric Acid-Catalyzed Asymmetric Vinylogous Mannich Reaction for the Synthesis of Butenolides
Authors: Zhang Suoqin , Zhang Guangliang , Zhou Tianyun , Gao Jigang , Liu Guofeng , Guan Xukai , An Dong
Published: August 2018

Chiral butenolides were synthesized by the enantioselective vinylogous Mannich reaction. Chiral (VAPOL)-type imidodiphosphoric acids are efficient catalysts for the asymmetric vinylogous Mannich (AVM) reaction of aldimines and trimethylsiloxyfuran in toluene. Under the optimized conditions, a series of butenolides were obtained with high yields (up to 98%) and enantioselectivities (up to 97% ee) as well as excellent diastereoselectivities (up to 99:1 dr).
Synthesis of Polycyclic Frameworks through Iron-Catalyzed Intramolecular [5+2] Cycloaddition
Authors: Fu Shaomin , Liu Bo , Liu Yongjiang , Zhang Yanhui , Wang Xiao
Published: August 2018

A concise and efficient approach to the core of the C18/C19 diterpenoid alkaloids and phomopsterone B is reported. Both syntheses share the same iron-catalyzed intramolecular [5+2] cycloaddition to assemble the tricyclo[6.3.1.01,6]]dodecane skeleton. The following ­approach to the 6/5/6/7 tetracyclic core scaffold of C18/C19 diterpenoid alkaloids features a regioselective Grignard addition/thermal Claisen rearrangement/RCM cyclization. Meanwhile the synthetic steps to access the spiro 6/5/6 tricyclic subunits of phomopsterone B were characterized as intramolecular aldol reaction, Wacker oxidation, and Criegee ­reaction.
Rhodium(III)-Catalyzed C–H Activation/Alkylation of Diazabicyclic Olefins with Aryl Ketones: Facile Synthesis of Functionalized Cyclopentenes
Authors: Radhakrishnan K. , Santhini P. , Gopalan Greeshma , Smrithy A.
Published: August 2018

A facile synthesis of biologically important trans-functionalized cyclopentenes by a mild Rh(III)-catalyzed alkylation of strained ­diazabicyclic olefins with aryl ketones in the presence of ammonium ­acetate has been developed. The reaction proceeds through C–H bond activation of the aryl ketone groups by transforming them in to an ­autocleavable directing group, such as in situ-formed imine.