bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interaction of hydrophobic polymers with model lipid bilayers
Authors: Bochicchio D. , Panizon E. , Monticelli L. , Rossi G.
Published: July 2017

The interaction of nanoscale synthetic materials with cell membranes is one of the key steps determining nanomaterials’ toxicity. Here we use molecular simulations, with atomistic and coarse-grained resolution, to investigate the interaction of three hydrophobic polymers with model lipid membranes. Polymer nanoparticles made of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polystyrene with size up to 7 nm enter easily POPC lipid membranes, localizing to the membrane hydrophobic core. For all three materials, solid polymeric nanoparticles become essentially liquid within the membrane at room temperature. Still, their behavior in the membrane core is not the same: PP and PS disperse in the core of the bilayer, while PE shows a tendency to aggregate. We also examined the interaction of the polymers with heterogeneous membranes, consisting of a ternary lipid mixture exhibiting liquid-ordered/liquid-disordered phase separation. The behavior of the three polymers is markedly different: PP disfavors lipid phase separation, PS stabilizes it, and PE modifies the topology of the phase boundaries and causes cholesterol depletion from the liquid ordered phase. Our results show that different hydrophobic polymers have major effects on the properties of lipid membranes, calling for further investigations on model systems and cell membranes.
Continual conscious bioluminescent imaging in freely moving somatotransgenic mice
Authors: Karda Rajvinder , Perocheau Dany P. , Suff Natalie , Ng Joanne , Delhove Juliette M. K. M. , Buckley Suzanne M. K. , Richards Samantha , Counsell John R. , Hagberg Henrik , Johnson Mark R. , McKay Tristan R. , Waddington Simon N.
Published: July 2017

Luciferase bioimaging in living animals is increasingly being applied in many fields of biomedical research. Rodent imaging usually involves anaesthetising the animal during data capture, however, the biological consequences of anaesthesia have been largely overlooked. We have evaluated luciferase bioimaging in conscious, unrestrained mice after neonatal intracranial or intravascular administration of lentiviral, luciferase reporter cassettes (biosensors); we present real-time analyses from the first day of life to adulthood. Anaesthetics have been shown to exert both neurotoxic and neuroprotective effects during development and in models of brain injury. Mice subjected to bioimaging after neonatal intracranial or intravascular administration of biosensors, targeting the brain and liver retrospectively showed no significant difference in luciferase expression when conscious or unconscious throughout development. We applied conscious bioimaging to the assessment of NFκB and STAT3 transcription factor activated reporters during the earliest stages of development in living, unrestrained pups. Our data showed unique longitudinal activities for NFκB and STAT3 in the brain of conscious mice. Conscious bioimaging was applied to a neonatal mouse model of cerebral palsy (Hypoxic-Ischaemic Encephalopathy). Imaging of NFκB reporter before and after surgery showed a significant increase in luciferase expression, coinciding with secondary energy failure, in lesioned mice compared to controls.
The Influence of Endogenous and Exogenous Spatial Attention on Decision Confidence
Authors: Kurtz Phillipp , Shapcott Katharine A. , Kaiser Jochen , Schmiedt Joscha T. , Schmid Michael C.
Published: July 2017

Spatial attention allows us to make more accurate decisions about events in our environment. Decision confidence is thought to be intimately linked to the decision making process as confidence ratings are tightly coupled to decision accuracy. While both spatial attention and decision confidence have been subjected to extensive research, surprisingly little is known about the interaction between these two processes. Since attention increases performance it might be expected that confidence would also increase. However, two studies investigating the effects of endogenous attention on decision confidence found contradictory results. Here we investigated the effects of two distinct forms of spatial attention on decision confidence; endogenous attention and exogenous attention. We used an orientation-matching task, comparing the two attention conditions (endogenous and exogenous) to a control condition without directed attention. Participants performed better under both attention conditions than in the control condition. Higher confidence ratings than the control condition were found under endogenous attention but not under exogenous attention. This finding suggests that while attention can increase confidence ratings, it must be voluntarily deployed for this increase to take place. We discuss possible implications of this relative overconfidence found only during endogenous attention with respect to the theoretical background of decision confidence.
Evidence for the effect of depth on visual working memory
Authors: Qian Jiehui , Li Jiaofeng , Wang Kaiyue , Liu Shengxi , Lei Quan
Published: July 2017

Visual working memory (VWM) is a cognitive memory buffer for temporarily holding, processing, and manipulating visual information. Previous studies have demonstrated mixed results of the effect of depth perception on VWM, with some showing a beneficial effect while others not. In this study, we employed an adapted change detection paradigm to investigate the effects of two depth cues, binocular disparity and relative size. The memory array consisted of a set of pseudo-randomly positioned colored items, and the task was to judge whether the test item was changed compared to the memory item after a retention interval. We found that presenting the items in stereoscopic depth alone hardly affected VWM performance. When combining the two coherent depth cues, a significant larger VWM capacity of the perceptually closer-in-depth items was observed than that of the farther items, but the capacity for the two-depth-planes condition was not significantly different from that for the one-plane condition. Conflicting the two depth cues resulted in cancelling the beneficial effect of presenting items at a closer depth plane. The results indicate that depth perception could affect VWM, and the visual system may have an advantage in maintaining closer-in-depth objects in working memory.
Topological Heat Transport and Symmetry-Protected Boson Currents
Authors: Rivas Ángel , Martin-Delgado Miguel A.
Published: July 2017

The study of non-equilibrium properties in topological systems is of practical and fundamental importance. Here, we analyze the stationary properties of a two-dimensional bosonic Hofstadter lattice coupled to two thermal baths in the quantum open-system formalism. Novel phenomena appear like chiral edge heat currents that are the out-of-equilibrium counterparts of the zero-temperature edge currents. They support a new concept of dissipative symmetry-protection, where a set of discrete symmetries protects topological heat currents, differing from the symmetry-protection devised in closed systems and zero-temperature. Remarkably, one of these currents flows opposite to the decreasing external temperature gradient. As the starting point, we consider the case of a single external reservoir already showing prominent results like thermal erasure effects and topological thermal currents. Our results are experimentally accessible with platforms like photonics systems and optical lattices.
Social jetlag and metabolic control in non-communicable chronic diseases: a study addressing different obesity statuses
Authors: Mota Maria Carliana , Silva Catarina Mendes , Balieiro Laura Cristina Tibiletti , Fahmy Walid Makin , Crispim Cibele Aparecida
Published: July 2017

Social jetlag – a measure of disruption of the circadian system – has been linked to obesity, but its association with metabolic complications in non-communicable chronic diseases (NCCDs) is unknown in the literature. We examined the associations between social jetlag and obesity status and metabolic parameters among individuals with NCCDs. Patients (n = 792) with NCCDs (obesity, systemic arterial hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus or dyslipidaemia) attended clinics of the public health service of the city of Uberlândia, Minas Gerais State, Brazil. They were classified in three obesity statuses: non-obese: BMI < 30 kg/m2; metabolically healthy obese (MHO): BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 and less than three high-risk biomarkers for metabolic syndrome; and metabolically unhealthy obese (MUO): BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 and with high-risk values on three or more biomarkers for metabolic syndrome. After adjustments for confounding variables, social jetlag was positively associated with fasting glucose levels among all subjects (β = 0.08, p = 0.03) and MUO subjects (β = 0.32, p < 0.001). Patients with social jetlag (>1 h) presented a significant odds ratio (OR) of being overweight (OR = 2.0, confidence interval (CI) = 1.2–3.6, p = 0.006) and MUO (OR = 1.8, CI = 1.1–2.8, p = 0.01). These results suggest that social jetlag is associated with a higher risk of overweight and related metabolic complications in individuals with NCCDs.
Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (GCSF) fused with Fc Domain produced from E. coli is less effective than Polyethylene Glycol-conjugated GCSF
Authors: Do Bich Hang , Kang Hyo Jeong , Song Jung-A , Nguyen Minh Tan , Park Sangsu , Yoo Jiwon , Nguyen Anh Ngoc , Kwon Grace G. , Jang Jaepyeong , Jang Mihee , Lee Sunju , So Seoungjun , Sim Seongrak , Lee Kyung Jin , Osborn Mark J. , Choe Han
Published: July 2017

Human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (GCSF) is a well-known cytokine for neutropenia treatment. However, daily injections are required due to the short circulating half-life of the protein. To overcome this bottleneck, we fused GCSF with the Fc domain of IgG1 at the C terminus (GCSF-Fc) and with the maltose binding protein (MBP) tag at the N-terminus and expressed it as a soluble protein in the cytoplasm of E. coli. We also conjugated PEG aldehyde to GCSF to make PEG-GCSF. The bioactivities of GCSF-Fc and PEG-GCSF were similar to native GCSF using the mouse M-NFS-60 myelogenous leukemia cell line. The EC50 dose-response curves for GCSF, GCSF-Fc and PEG-GCSF were 37 ± 12 pM, 75 ± 13.5 pM and 46 ± 5.5 pM, respectively. When the proteins were injected into neutropenic rats, the group injected with PEG-GCSF showed the highest and fastest recovery of neutrophils, followed by GCSF-Fc and GCSF. ELISA assay revealed the PEG-GCSF had the longest plasma circulation (>72 h), followed by GCSF-Fc (>48 h) and GCSF (~24 h), which is consistent with the in vivo activities of the proteins. In summary, the GCSF-Fc purified from E. coli was not as efficient as PEG-GCSF in treating neutropenic rats.
Empathy for others’ suffering and its mediators in mental health professionals
Authors: Santamaría-García Hernando , Baez Sandra , García Adolfo M. , Flichtentrei Daniel , Prats María , Mastandueno Ricardo , Sigman Mariano , Matallana Diana , Cetkovich Marcelo , Ibáñez Agustín
Published: July 2017

Empathy is a complex cognitive and affective process that allows humans to experience concern for others, comprehend their emotions, and eventually help them. In addition to studies with healthy subjects and various neuropsychiatric populations, a few reports have examined this domain focusing on mental health workers, whose daily work requires the development of a saliently empathic character. Building on this research line, the present population-based study aimed to (a) assess different dimensions of empathy for pain in mental health workers relative to general-physicians and non-medical workers; and (b) evaluate their relationship with relevant factors, such as moral profile, age, gender, years of experience, and workplace type. Relative to both control groups, mental health workers exhibited higher empathic concern and discomfort for others’ suffering, and they favored harsher punishment to harmful actions. Furthermore, this was the only group in which empathy variability was explained by moral judgments, years of experience, and workplace type. Taken together, these results indicate that empathy is continuously at stake in mental health care scenarios, as it can be affected by contextual factors and social contingencies. More generally, they highlight the importance of studying this domain in populations characterized by extreme empathic demands.
Genetic loci associated with an earlier age at onset in multiplex schizophrenia
Authors: Woolston Annemarie L. , Hsiao Po-Chang , Kuo Po-Hsiu , Wang Shi-Heng , Lien Yin-Ju , Liu Chih-Min , Hwu Hai-Gwo , Lu Tzu-Pin , Chuang Eric Y. , Chang Li-Ching , Chen Chien-Hsiun , Wu Jer-Yuarn , Tsuang Ming T. , Chen Wei J.
Published: July 2017

An earlier age at onset (AAO) has been associated with greater genetic loadings in schizophrenia. This study aimed to identify modifier loci associated with an earlier AAO of schizophrenia. A genome-wide association analysis (GWAS) was conducted in 94 schizophrenia probands with the earliest AAO and 91 with the latest AAO. Candidate single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were then genotyped in the co-affected siblings and unrelated probands. Multi-SNP genetic risk scores (GRS) composed of the candidate loci were used to distinguish patients with an early or late AAO. The 14-SNP GRS could distinguish the co-affected siblings (n = 90) of the earliest probands from those (n = 91) of the latest probands. When 132 patients with an earlier AAO and 158 patients with a later AAO were included, a significant trend in the 14-SNP GRS was detected among those unrelated probands from 4 family groups with the earliest, earlier, later, and latest AAO. The overall effect of the 14 SNPs on an AAO in schizophrenia was verified using co-affected siblings of the GWAS probands and trend effect across unrelated patients. Preliminary network analysis of these loci revealed the involvement of PARK2, a gene intensively reported in Parkinson’s disease and schizophrenia research.
Rapid screening for specific glycosylation and pathogen interactions on a 78 species avian egg white glycoprotein microarray
Authors: Utratna Marta , Annuk Heidi , Gerlach Jared Q. , Lee Yuan C. , Kane Marian , Kilcoyne Michelle , Joshi Lokesh
Published: July 2017

There is an urgent need for discovery of novel antimicrobials and carbohydrate-based anti-adhesive strategies are desirable as they may not promote resistance. Discovery of novel anti-adhesive molecules from natural product libraries will require the use of a high throughput screening platform. Avian egg white (EW) provides nutrition for the embryo and protects against infection, with glycosylation responsible for binding certain pathogens. In this study, a microarray platform of 78 species of avian EWs was developed and profiled for glycosylation using a lectin panel with a wide range of carbohydrate specificities. The dominating linkages of sialic acid in EWs were determined for the first time using the lectins MAA and SNA-I. EW glycosylation similarity among the different orders of birds did not strictly depend on phylogenetic relationship. The interactions of five strains of bacterial pathogens, including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Vibrio cholera, identified a number of EWs as potential anti-adhesives, with some as strain- or species-specific. Of the two bacterial toxins examined, shiga-like toxin 1 subunit B bound to ten EWs with similar glycosylation more intensely than pigeon EW. This study provides a unique platform for high throughput screening of natural products for specific glycosylation and pathogen interactions. This platform may provide a useful platform in the future for discovery of anti-adhesives targeted for strain and species specificity.
Bimanual grasping does not adhere to Weber’s law
Authors: Ganel Tzvi , Namdar Gal , Mirsky Avigail
Published: July 2017

According to Weber’s law, a fundamental principle of perception, visual resolution decreases in a linear fashion with an increase in object size. Previous studies have shown, however, that unlike for perception, grasping does not adhere to Weber’s law. Yet, this research was limited by the fact that perception and grasping were examined for a restricted range of stimulus sizes bounded by the maximum fingers span. The purpose of the current study was to test the generality of the dissociation between perception and action across a different type of visuomotor task, that of bimanual grasping. Bimanual grasping also allows to effectively measure visual resolution during perception and action across a wide range of stimulus sizes compared to unimanual grasps. Participants grasped or estimated the sizes of large objects using both their hands. The results showed that bimanual grasps violated Weber’s law throughout the entire movement trajectory. In contrast, Just Noticeable Differences (JNDs) for perceptual estimations of the objects increased linearly with size, in agreement with Weber’s law. The findings suggest that visuomotor control, across different types of actions and for a large range of size, is based on absolute rather than on relative representation of object size.
Full-length cloning, sequence analysis and expression detection of the β-tubulin gene from the Chinese gall aphid (Schlechtendalia chinensis)
Authors: Liu Ping , Yang Zi-Xiang , Chen Xiao-Ming , Chen Hang
Published: July 2017

Some insect galls are formed on sumac plants by certain aphid species and have been used for medicinal and chemical purposes as they are rich in tannins. The most prominent species among gall aphids in China is Schlechtendalia chinensis, which formed horn-shaped galls on the winged rachis of Rhus chinensis. S. chinensis has a complex life cycle, with a switch of hosts between R. chinensis and certain mosses, and a switch of sexual and asexual reproduction (cyclical parthenogenesis). We have cloned a full-length cDNA of the β-tubulin gene from S. chinensis, using qPCR and RACE. This cDNA has 1606 base pairs with a 251 bp 5′-untranslated region (5′-UTR) and a 15 bp 3′-untranslated region (3′-UTR). The gene encodes a protein with 376 amino acids residues. The expression levels of the β-tubulin gene in S. chinensis were investigated among fundatrigeniae and overwintering larvae rearing under either natural conditions, or at 7.5 °C and 18 °C. No significant differences (P > 0.01) in gene expression levels were found in insects under these conditions. It is indicates that the β-tubulin gene is highly conserved and then it may be used as a reference for further research in gene expression and reproduction determination in this important aphid.
YY1’s role in the Peg3 imprinted domain
Authors: He Hongzhi , Ye An , Perera Bambarendage P. U. , Kim Joomyeong
Published: July 2017

The ICR (Imprinting Control Region) of the Peg3 (Paternally Expressed Gene 3) domain contains an unusual cluster of YY1 binding sites. In the current study, these YY1 binding sites were mutated to characterize the unknown roles in the mouse Peg3 domain. According to the results, paternal and maternal transmission of the mutant allele did not cause any major effect on the survival of the pups. In the mutants, the maternal-specific DNA methylation on the ICR was properly established and maintained, causing no major effect on the imprinting of the domain. In contrast, the paternal transmission resulted in changes in the expression levels of several genes: down-regulation of Peg3 and Usp29 and up-regulation of Zim1. These changes were more pronounced during the neonatal stage than during the adult stage. In the case of Peg3 and Zim1, the levels of the observed changes were also different between males and females, suggesting the different degrees of YY1 involvement between two sexes. Overall, the results indicated that YY1 is mainly involved in controlling the transcriptional levels, but not the DNA methylation, of the Peg3 domain.
Sexual pair-formation in a cicada mediated by acoustic behaviour of females and positive phonotaxis of males
Authors: Hou Zehai , Luo Changqing , Roberts J. Dale , Wei Cong
Published: July 2017

The functions of female song found in a few cicadas have rarely been studied. In the cicada Subpsaltria yangi we investigated the acoustic behaviour and signal structure of songs produced by females, the phonotaxis of males, and mate choice, as well as the selective pressure imposed on this species by predators. Pair-formation in S. yangi occurs when males signal, females respond, then males move to signaling females, which is opposite to that in most other cicadas where females move to calling males. Females only mate once and are sexually unreceptive after copulation. Most males mate once, but ~25% mate multiply. Females display little direct evidence of mate preference or choice of males, and all mate encounters led to a successful mating. Only males are attacked by a robber fly, Philonicus albiceps, while flying to females. This imposes strong selection on males – only males who can evade predators mate. Males are also attracted to human simulations of female calls. This behaviour exposes the mating system to impacts from anthropogenic noise systems which could disrupt mating activity of this species. Our results improve the understanding of mate choice/competition in cicadas, and are valuable for future studies of the evolution of sound communication in the Cicadoidea.
Relationship between obesity and development of erosive reflux disease: A mediation analysis of the role of cardiometabolic risk factors
Authors: Lee Hyuk , Lim Yaeji , Chi Sangah , Min Yang Won , Min Byung-Hoon , Lee Jun Haeng , Rhee Poong-Lyul , Kim Jae J.
Published: July 2017

This study aimed to evaluate whether the relationship between obesity and erosive reflux disease (ERD) is mediated by cardiometabolic risk factors. This cohort study included subjects who underwent repeated endoscopy. To assess whether the association between body mass index (BMI) and ERD development was mediated by cardiometabolic parameters, multivariate Cox proportional hazard models were fitted for mediation analysis. Of 15,154 subjects with negative index endoscopy findings during health check-up, 11,686 subjects who underwent repeated endoscopy were included. During follow-up, 1,367 incident ERD events (11.7%) were observed. Without mediation effect, the multivariate adjusted hazard ratio of BMI was 1.21 (95% CI, 1.03–1.42) in overweight and 1.39 (95% CI, 1.19–1.62) in obese individuals compared to normal weight individuals. When the metabolic syndrome was included as a mediator, the hazard ratio became 1.19 (95% CI, 1.00–1.40) in overweight and 1.29 (95% CI, 1.10–1.52) in obese individuals. Both systolic blood pressure and triglyceride level were found to fully mediate the effect of BMI on ERD. Fasting glucose level was a partial mediator. The estimated percentage of total effect mediated by cardiometabolic risk factors was 35.4%. Cardiometabolic parameters partially or fully mediate the association between overweight and obesity and incident ERD.
The Rice Phytochrome Genes, PHYA and PHYB, Have Synergistic Effects on Anther Development and Pollen Viability
Authors: Sun Wei , Hui Xu Xiao , Lu Xingbo , Xie Lixia , Bai Bo , Zheng Chongke , Sun Hongwei , He Yanan , Xie Xian-zhi
Published: July 2017

Phytochromes are the main plant photoreceptors regulating multiple developmental processes. However, the regulatory network of phytochrome-mediated plant reproduction has remained largely unexplored. There are three phytochromes in rice, phyA, phyB and phyC. No changes in fertility are observed in the single mutants, whereas the seed-setting rate of thephyA phyBdouble mutant is significantly reduced. Histological and cytological analyses showed that the reduced fertility of thephyA phyBmutant was due to defects in both anther and pollen development. The four anther lobes in thephyA phyBmutant were developed at different stages with fewer pollen grains, most of which were aborted. At the mature stage, more than one lobe in the double mutant was just consisted of several cell layers. To identify genes involved in phytochrome-mediated anther development, anther transcriptomes ofphyA,phyBandphyA phyBmutants were compared to that of wild-type rice respectively. Analysis of 2,241 double-mutant-specific differentially expressed transcripts revealed that the metabolic profiles, especially carbohydrate metabolism, were altered greatly, and heat-shock responses were activated in the double mutant. This study firstly provides valuable insight into the complex regulatory networks underlying phytochrome-mediated anther and pollen development in plants, and offers novel clues for hybrid rice breeding.
Nanocrystalline diamond protects Zr cladding surface against oxygen and hydrogen uptake: Nuclear fuel durability enhancement
Authors: Škarohlíd Jan , Ashcheulov Petr , Škoda Radek , Taylor Andrew , Čtvrtlík Radim , Tomáštík Jan , Fendrych František , Kopeček Jaromír , Cháb Vladimír , Cichoň Stanislav , Sajdl Petr , Macák Jan , Xu Peng , Partezana Jonna M. , Lorinčík Jan , Prehradná Jana , Steinbrück Martin , Kratochvílová Irena
Published: July 2017

In this work, we demonstrate and describe an effective method of protecting zirconium fuel cladding against oxygen and hydrogen uptake at both accident and working temperatures in water-cooled nuclear reactor environments. Zr alloy samples were coated with nanocrystalline diamond (NCD) layers of different thicknesses, grown in a microwave plasma chemical vapor deposition apparatus. In addition to showing that such an NCD layer prevents the Zr alloy from directly interacting with water, we show that carbon released from the NCD film enters the underlying Zr material and changes its properties, such that uptake of oxygen and hydrogen is significantly decreased. After 100–170 days of exposure to hot water at 360 °C, the oxidation of the NCD-coated Zr plates was typically decreased by 40%. Protective NCD layers may prolong the lifetime of nuclear cladding and consequently enhance nuclear fuel burnup. NCD may also serve as a passive element for nuclear safety. NCD-coated ZIRLO claddings have been selected as a candidate for Accident Tolerant Fuel in commercially operated reactors in 2020.
A Cryosectioning Technique for the Observation of Intracellular Structures and Immunocytochemistry of Tissues in Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM)
Authors: Usukura Eiji , Narita Akihiro , Yagi Akira , Sakai Nobuaki , Uekusa Yoshitsugu , Imaoka Yuka , Ito Shuichi , Usukura Jiro
Published: July 2017

The use of cryosectioning facilitates the morphological analysis and immunocytochemistry of cells in tissues in atomic force microscopy (AFM). The cantilever can access all parts of a tissue sample in cryosections after the embedding medium (sucrose) has been replaced with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), and this approach has enabled the production of a type of high-resolution image. The images resembled those obtained from freeze-etching replica electron microscopy (EM) rather than from thin-section EM. The AFM images showed disks stacked and enveloped by the cell membrane in rod photoreceptor outer segments (ROS) at EM resolution. In addition, ciliary necklaces on the surface of connecting cilium, three-dimensional architecture of synaptic ribbons, and the surface of the post-synaptic membrane facing the active site were revealed, which were not apparent using thin-section EM. AFM could depict the molecular binding of anti-opsin antibodies conjugated to a secondary fluorescent antibody bound to the disk membrane. The specific localization of the anti-opsin binding sites was verified through correlation with immunofluorescence signals in AFM combined with confocal fluorescence microscope. To prove reproducibility in other tissues besides retina, cryosectioning-AFM was also applied to elucidate molecular organization of sarcomere in a rabbit psoas muscle.
Strain Balanced AlGaN/GaN/AlGaN nanomembrane HEMTs
Authors: Chang Tzu-Hsuan , Xiong Kanglin , Park Sung Hyun , Yuan Ge , Ma Zhenqiang , Han Jung
Published: July 2017

Single crystal semiconductor nanomembranes (NM) are important in various applications such as heterogeneous integration and flexible devices. This paper reports the fabrication of AlGaN/GaN NMs and NM high electron mobility transistors (HEMT). Electrochemical etching is used to slice off single-crystalline AlGaN/GaN layers while preserving their microstructural quality. A double heterostructure design with a symmetric strain profile is employed to ensure minimal residual strain in freestanding NMs after release. The mobility of the two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG), formed by the AlGaN/GaN heterostructure, is noticeably superior to previously reported values of many other NMs. AlGaN/GaN nanomembrane HEMTs are fabricated on SiO2 and flexible polymeric substrates. Excellent electrical characteristics, including a high ON/OFF ratio and transconductance, suggest that III-Nitrides nanomembranes are capable of supporting high performance applications.
Permeability Barrier and Microstructure of Skin Lipid Membrane Models of Impaired Glucosylceramide Processing
Authors: Sochorová Michaela , Staňková Klára , Pullmannová Petra , Kováčik Andrej , Zbytovská Jarmila , Vávrová Kateřina
Published: July 2017

Ceramide (Cer) release from glucosylceramides (GlcCer) is critical for the formation of the skin permeability barrier. Changes in β-glucocerebrosidase (GlcCer’ase) activity lead to diminished Cer, GlcCer accumulation and structural defects in SC lipid lamellae; however, the molecular basis for this impairment is not clear. We investigated impaired GlcCer-to-Cer processing in human Cer membranes to determine the physicochemical properties responsible for the barrier defects. Minor impairment (5–25%) of the Cer generation from GlcCer decreased the permeability of the model membrane to four markers and altered the membrane microstructure (studied by X-ray powder diffraction and infrared spectroscopy), in agreement with the effects of topical GlcCer in human skin. At these concentrations, the accumulation of GlcCer was a stronger contributor to this disturbance than the lack of human Cer. However, replacement of 50–100% human Cer by GlcCer led to the formation of a new lamellar phase and the maintenance of a rather good barrier to the four studied permeability markers. These findings suggest that the major cause of the impaired water permeability barrier in complete GlcCer’ase deficiency is not the accumulation of free GlcCer but other factors, possibly the retention of GlcCer bound in the corneocyte lipid envelope.
Fluorometric gas-imaging system (sniff-cam), using the extinction of NADH with an ADH reverse reaction, for acetaldehyde in the gas phase
Authors: Iitani Kenta , Sato Toshiyuki , Naisierding Munire , Hayakawa Yuuki , Toma Koji , Arakawa Takahiro , Mitsubayashi Kohji
Published: July 2017

A gas-imaging system (sniff-cam) that allows fluorometric visualization of a two-dimensional (2-D) distribution of gaseous acetaldehyde (AcH) was developed.
Ratcheting rotation or speedy spinning: EPR and dynamics of Sc3C2@C80
Authors: Roukala Juho , Straka Michal , Taubert Stefan , Vaara Juha , Lantto Perttu
Published: July 2017

First principles modelling graphically explains how changes in the Sc-trimer motion cause the curious temperature dependence of Sc3C2@C80 EPR spectra.
Catalyst-controlled site-selective asymmetric epoxidation of nerylamine and geranylamine derivatives
Authors: Nobuta Tomoya , Kawabata Takeo
Published: July 2017

Novel catalysts for site- and enantioselective epoxidation of dienyl amine derivatives have been developed.
Tuning the gap of lead-based halide perovskites by introducing superalkali species at the cationic sites of ABX3-type structure
Authors: Paduani C. , Rappe Andrew M.
Published: July 2017

New perovskites are formed by introducing polyatomic yet aprotic superalkali species at the cationic A-sites of the ABX3 structure.
Stepwise deprotonation of sumanene: electronic structures, energetics and aromaticity alterations
Authors: Xu Qi , Petrukhina Marina A. , Rogachev Andrey Yu.
Published: July 2017

Stepwise deprotonation of sumanene resulted in complete delocalization of electron density as well as aromatization of 5-membered rings.
Effect of hierarchical meso–macroporous structures on the catalytic performance of silica supported cobalt catalysts for Fischer–Tropsch synthesis
Authors: Li Hansheng , Hou Bo , Wang Jungang , Huang Xin , Chen Congbiao , Ma Zhongyi , Cui Jinglei , Jia Litao , Sun Dekui , Li Debao
Published: July 2017

A series of meso–macroporous silica supports with the same macroporous diameter but different mesoporous diameters were prepared by introducing phase separation into a sol–gel process and used to prepare cobalt catalysts for Fischer–Tropsch synthesis.
Cobalt Schiff-base complexes for electrocatalytic hydrogen generation
Authors: DiRisio Ryan J. , Armstrong Jessica E. , Frank Mariah A. , Lake William R. , McNamara William R.
Published: July 2017

Two cobalt(iii) complexes containing inexpensive Schiff-base ligands have been found to be active for proton reduction at low overpotentials.
Isolating and quantifying the impact of domain purity on the performance of bulk heterojunction solar cells
Authors: Huang Wenchao , Gann Eliot , Chandrasekaran Naresh , Thomsen Lars , Prasad Shyamal K. K. , Hodgkiss Justin M. , Kabra Dinesh , Cheng Yi-Bing , McNeill Christopher R.
Published: July 2017

Control of domain purity in polymer/fullerene solar cells is realised through controlling the time that an anti-solvent treatment is applied.
The status and characteristics of eutrophication in tropical coastal water
Authors: Peyman Nooshin , Tavakoly Sany Seyedeh Belin , Tajfard Mohammad , Hashim Rosli , Rezayi Majid , Karlen David J.
Published: July 2017

A set of methodological tools was tested to assess the sensitivity of several ecological and biological indices to eutrophication while at the same time attempting to explore a linkage among pressures, classification assessment and drivers.
“On water” synthesis of dibenzo-[1,4]-diazepin-1-ones using l-proline as an organocatalyst and under catalyst-free conditions, and their evaluation as α-glucosidase inhibitors
Authors: Nagaraju Sakkani , Perumal P. Onkara , Divakar K. , Paplal Banoth , Kashinath Dhurke
Published: July 2017

Functionalized dibenzo-[1,4]-diazepin-1-ones are synthesized using the “on-water” concept in the presence of l-proline (organocatalyst; 20 mol%) and under catalyst free conditions (sealed tube) in an aqueous medium.
Autonomous and complex flow control involving multistep injection and liquid replacement in a reaction chamber on steadily rotating centrifugal microfluidic devices
Authors: Okamoto Shunya , Ukita Yoshiaki
Published: July 2017

This study demonstrates a novel autonomous flow-control technique using siphon-shaped microchannels on a steadily rotating centrifugal microfluidic device.
The high photocatalytic activity and reduced band gap energy of La and Mn co-doped BiFeO3/graphene nanoplatelet (GNP) nanohybrids
Authors: Fatima Sabeen , Ali S. Irfan , Iqbal Muhammad Z. , Rizwan Syed
Published: July 2017

This article details a comparison of the photocatalytic activity of La, Mn co-doped BiFeO3/GNP nanohybrids prepared by co-precipitation and hydrothermal methods.
Highly rough copper current collector: improving adhesion property between a silicon electrode and current collector for flexible lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Jeon Hyunkyu , Cho Inseong , Jo Hearin , Kim Kyuman , Ryou Myung-Hyun , Lee Yong Min
Published: July 2017

Rough Cu foil enhances the adhesion properties between Si electrode composites and Cu foil due to physical interlocking.
NiO and Co3O4 co-doped g-C3N4 nanocomposites with excellent photoelectrochemical properties under visible light for detection of tetrabromobisphenol-A
Authors: Liu Yi , Jiang Jizhou , Sun Yanjuan , Wu Shengli , Cao Yuan , Gong Wanyun , Zou Jing
Published: July 2017

A NiO/Co3O4/g-C3N4 nanocomposite was prepared by one step thermal decomposition and it exhibited excellent photoelectrochemical activity for sensing TBBP-A.
Manipulation and analysis of an optofluidic multiphase microlens
Authors: Lee S. Y. , Wee D. , Youn J. R. , Song Y. S.
Published: July 2017

We show the underlying physics governing the shape of a multiphasic microlens by exploiting nonlinear flow behavior at the interface.
Synthesis of uniform rare earth doped Gd2O2S sub-micron sized spheres using gas-aided sulfurization and their optical characteristics
Authors: He Shuqing , Zhao Xinyu , Tan Mei Chee
Published: July 2017

We report a detailed study of the synthesis of sub-micron sized Gd2O2S spheres using a two-step process: (1) amorphous precursor synthesis using the solvothermal method; (2) crystallization to form Gd2O2S polycrystalline spheres in a sulfur-rich environment.
Schiff base derived Fe3+-selective fluorescence turn-off chemsensors based on triphenylamine and indole: synthesis, properties and application in living cells
Authors: Pan Chengqiang , Wang Kai , Ji Shaomin , Wang Huaqian , Li Zongzhi , He Huahong , Huo Yanping
Published: July 2017

A Schiff base with an AIE effect could act as a turn-off fluorescent chemosensor for Fe3+in living cells.
Capacitive deionization of NaCl solutions with ambient pressure dried carbon aerogel microsphere electrodes
Authors: Quan Xueping , Fu Zhibing , Yuan Lei , Zhong Minglong , Mi Rui , Yang Xi , Yi Yong , Wang Chaoyang
Published: July 2017

We first used carbon aerogel microspheres prepared via emulsion polymerization and ambient drying techniques as electrode material for capacitive deionization.
Photocatalytic alginate fuel cells for energy production and refining of macroalgae
Authors: Mazumder Joyotu , Yoshikawa Hiroyuki , Miyake Hideo , Shibata Toshiyuki , Tamiya Eiichi
Published: July 2017

An alginate fuel cell comprising a TiO2-modified carbon sheet (TiO2/C) anode was developed. The power output of the fuel cell and decomposition of alginate were enhanced by solar irradiation of the anode.
Photosensitive bent-core liquid crystals based on methyl substituted 3-hydroxybenzoic acid
Authors: Kohout Michal , Alaasar Mohamed , Poryvai Anna , Novotná Vladimíra , Poppe Silvio , Tschierske Carsten , Svoboda Jiří
Published: July 2017

Photosensitive liquid crystals are of contemporary interest not only from the scientific point of view but also for various applications. The chemical structure of materials is used to tune their mesomorphic and photosensitive properties.
Synthesis and characterization of novel star-branched polyimides derived from 2,2-bis[4-(2,4-diaminophenoxy)phenyl]hexafluoropropane
Authors: Wu Feng , Zhou Xingping , Yu Xinhai
Published: July 2017

A series of novel star-branched fluorinated polyimides was synthesized from anhydride-terminated linear poly(amide acid)s and aromatic fluorinated tetramine BDAPFP.
Highly efficient FRET from aggregation-induced emission to BODIPY emission based on host–guest interaction for mimicking the light-harvesting system
Authors: Wang Shuai , Ye Jia-Hai , Han Zhong , Fan Zheng , Wang Caijiang , Mu Cancan , Zhang Wenchao , He Weijiang
Published: July 2017

A novel highly efficient FRET system from aggregation-induced emission to BODIPY emission based on the host–guest interaction for mimicking a light harvesting system was disclosed with a FRET efficiency up to 93%
Formulation of water-in-oil-in-water (W/O/W) emulsions containing trans-resveratrol
Authors: Wang Jun , Shi Aimin , Agyei Dominic , Wang Qiang
Published: July 2017

Resveratrol is a high-value bioactive polyphenolic compound with vast applications in functional foods; as such, effective and scalable delivery strategies for this compound are worthy of study.
Highly selective detection of nitrotoluene based on novel lanthanide-containing ionic liquids
Authors: Zheng Ling , Yang Li-Li , Xing Nan-Nan , Pan Yi , Ji Hong-Xiang , Wei Jie , Guan Wei
Published: July 2017

Two novel rare-earth ionic liquids demonstrate high selectivity toward nitrotoluene in the presence of other aromatic compounds.
General fabrication and enhanced VOC gas-sensing properties of hierarchically porous metal oxides
Authors: Gao Yue , Kong Qinghong , Zhang Junhao , Xi Guangcheng
Published: July 2017

A facile and general route to synthesize hierarchically porous metal oxides, along with their noble-metal modification, is reported. The lowest detection limit achieved for formaldehyde is 10 ppb, much less than the indoor limit (60 ppb).
Investigation of moderately turbid suspensions by heterodyne near field scattering
Authors: Escobedo-Sánchez M. A. , Rojas-Ochoa L. F. , Laurati M. , Egelhaaf S. U.
Published: July 2017

Heterodyne near field scattering is shown to be a technically simple yet powerful method to investigate moderately multiple-scattering samples.
Recent advances in chemical methods for activating carbon and metal oxide based electrodes for supercapacitors
Authors: Kou Tianyi , Yao Bin , Liu Tianyu , Li Yat
Published: July 2017

Numerous chemical activation methods are effective in boosting the capacitive performances of carbon and metal oxide based electrodes.
A new approach for the preparation of durable and reversible color changing polyester fabrics using thermochromic leuco dye-loaded silica nanocapsules
Authors: Zhang Wan , Ji Xiaoqian , Zeng Chanjuan , Chen Kunlin , Yin Yunjie , Wang Chaoxia
Published: July 2017

Durable, reversible color changing polyester fabrics were successfully fabricated using thermochromic leuco dye-loaded silica nanocapsulesviadyeing.
Constructing D–A copolymers based on thiophene-fused benzotriazole units containing different alkyl side-chains for non-fullerene polymer solar cells
Authors: Jiang Xiu , Yang Yang , Zhu Jingshuai , Lau Tsz-Ki , Cheng Pei , Lu Xinhui , Zhan Xiaowei , Chen Xingguo
Published: July 2017

A series of D–A copolymers based on thiophene fused benzotriazole (BTAZT) and 4,8-bis(4-fluorothiophen-2-yl)benzo[1,2-b:4,5-b′]dithiophene (BDTFT) units containing different alkyl side-chains have been constructed as electron-donating materials for non-fullerene PSCs.
The Relationship Between Language and Culture: Evidence From the Deaf Bi-Bi Community
Authors: Huang Shirley
Published: July 2017

Language helps establish cultural identification and social ties within a community. Like most cultural groups, language and culture are tightly interwoven in the Deaf1bilingual-bicultural (Bi-Bi) community. The social intimacy resulting from the shared use of American Sign Language (ASL) makes the Deaf Bi-Bi community unique from the mainstream hearing world. As our society grows increasingly diverse, it is very important to understand the intricate relationship between language and and how it supports identity formation and enhances social participation among a particular group of people. Specifically, this article will focus on cases illustrating potential consequences of a language loss. The social and cultural experiences of two Cantonese-ASL-English-speaking adolescent siblings will be discussed and understood through an in-depth interview. Finally, clinical implications for the role of clinicians in supporting Deaf families in the healthcare system will be discussed.
Identification of coherency and critical generators set in real‐time signal
Authors: Shweta  , Kishor Nand , Uhlen Kjetil , Mohanty Soumya R.
Published: July 2017

For a reliable and stable operation of a power system network, it is important to monitor the dynamics of the system. For this purpose, in real system phasor measurement units (PMUs) have been installed to give information about the grid conditions. Due to a large interconnected non‐linear system, there is a possibility of system collapse due to unusual high stress. Hence, it is essential to detect the generators going out of step at an early stage and separate them. This study presents two algorithms: first one in meant to identify the coherency between the generators in real‐time signal and second algorithm functions to quickly determine the critical generators. The algorithm for coherency identification between the generators uses time–frequency coherency based on smoothed pseudo‐Wigner–Ville distribution signal processing technique. The proposed scheme is validated on several PMUs signals. Further, the Lagrangian method is applied to detect the critical sets of generators going out of step following the severe fault occurrence in the line. This is based on the calculation of energy. The suggested approach discussed in this study can be applied to dynamically reduce a large power system.
Improved partial differential equation‐based enhancement for underwater images using local–global contrast operators and fuzzy homomorphic processes
Authors: Nnolim Uche Afam
Published: July 2017

This study describes improved partial differential equation (PDE)‐based formulations for combined global and local contrast operators for underwater image enhancement. The algorithms remove the limitations of conventional closed‐form approaches and the problem of optimal stopping time of earlier PDE‐based approaches. Main features include improved simultaneous combination, augmentation and control of various individual local and global processes, guided by optimisation of multiple image metrics. This ensures optimal operation of the algorithms in terms of visual and numerical results and proposed approaches ensure faster and fully automated processing of various images. Additional contributions include the incorporation of a colour space converter, fuzzy homomorphic and post‐contrast enhancement processes for certain problematic images. Experimental comparisons indicate that the improved approaches yield better results than several of the proposed works from the literature for underwater image enhancement.
PV‐assisted microgeneration scheme with single‐phase induction generator suitable for wide speed range application
Authors: Chatterjee Arunava , Chatterjee Debashis
Published: July 2017

This study presents a novel generation scheme involving a single‐phase induction generator capable of generating power utilising wide range of wind speeds for standalone domestic application. The variable excitation for the induction generator is provided by a single‐phase bidirectional converter which has a battery and a photovoltaic (PV) panel across it. The excitation from the bidirectional converter is controlled using a direct voltage control based loop. The scheme uses dynamic voltage reference which is based on the speed of the turbine enabling the generator to operate for wide range of wind speeds. The PV panel connected to the DC bus of the converter is used during the daytime and the stored energy in battery can be used during night or low insolation periods. This adds to the reliability for the proposed scheme especially for standalone supply. Suitable simulations backed by experimental results validate the proposed concept.
Iron-Catalyzed Cross-Coupling: Mechanistic Insight for Rational Applications in Synthesis
Authors: Parchomyk Tobias , Koszinowski Konrad
Published: July 2017

Iron-catalyzed cross-coupling reactions provide a promising way to form new carbon–carbon bonds and build up molecular complexity. This short review presents recent advances in the synthetic application of these reactions as well as in the elucidation of their mechanism. It also highlights remaining problems and aims at pointing out ways toward possible remedies.

1 Introduction

2 Synthesis: Recent Accomplishments and Unsolved Problems

2.1 Substrate Scope: Electrophiles

2.2 Substrate Scope: Nucleophiles

2.3 Catalyst Activity and Chemoselectivity

2.4 Stereoselectivity

2.5 Practical Aspects

3 Mechanism: Recent Insights and Open Questions

3.1 Transmetallation and Activation of the Iron Precatalyst

3.2 Coupling via Oxidative Addition and Reductive Elimination

3.3 Coupling via C–X Bond Homolysis and Radical Rebound

3.4 Coupling via Bimolecular C–X Bond Homolysis

3.5 Other Reactions of Organoiron Species with Electrophiles

4 Toward Rational Reaction Improvement

5 Conclusion