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Background: Femoral head collapse (FHC) is associated with a poor prognosis in osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). Preserved angles (PAs), including the lateral preserved angle (LPA), the anterior preserved angle (APA) and the combined preserved angle (CPA), can be used to quantify the extent of femoral head necrosis and predict the risk of femoral head collapse. The purpose of this retrospective cohort study was to assess the efficacy of these preserved angles in the prediction of femoral head collapse using plain radiographs.Methods: Patients with ONFH treated conservatively between January 2010 and January 2019 were analyzed retrospectively to assess the risk of FHC. A logistic regression model was used to evaluate the independent prognostic factors associated with FHC, including age, sex, etiology, onset of symptom, The Japanese Investigation Committee classification, and PAs (LPA, APA, and CPA).Results: A total of 137 patients, with 180 hips, had follow-up of at least two years and were included. During the follow-up period, FHC occurred in 89 hips (49.44%) after the initial diagnosis. Multivariable analysis indicated that CPA (odds ratio [OR] = 0.95; 95%CI = 0.93-0.97; P < 0.01) was a stronger predictor of femoral head collapse compared with the Japanese Investigation Committee classification (OR = 2.40, 95%CI = 0.92-6.25; P > 0.01). The receiver operating characteristic and survival curve analyses revealed that the predictive cutoff point for the CPA was 118.7° (sensitivity = 96.70%, specificity = 79.78%, log-rank test: P < 0.01).Conclusions: Assessment of preserved angles on plain radiographs is a simple method to quantify the extent of lateral and anterior necrosis of the femoral head. Specifically, CPA has a potential value in predicting femoral head collapse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The "shuttle effect" of soluble polysulfides and slow reaction kinetics hinder the practical application of Li–S batteries. Transition metal oxides are promising mediators to alleviate these problems, but the poor electrical conductivity limits their further development. Herein, the homogeneous CoNiO2/Co4N nanowires have been fabricated and employed as additive of graphene based sulfur cathode. Through optimizing the nitriding degree, the continuous heterostructure interface can be obtained, accompanied by effective adjustment of energy band structure. By combining the strong adsorptive and catalytic properties of CoNiO2 and electrical conductivity of Co4N, the in situ formed CoNiO2/Co4N heterostructure reveals a synergistic enhancement effect. Theoretical calculation and experimental design show that it can not only significantly inhibit "shuttle effect" through chemisorption and catalytic conversion of polysulfides, but also improve the transport rate of ions and electrons. Thus, the graphene composite sulfur cathode supported by these CoNiO2/Co4N nanowires exhibits improved sulfur species reaction kinetics. The corresponding cell provides a high rate capacity of 688 mAh g−1 at 4 C with an ultralow decaying rate of ≈0.07% per cycle over 600 cycles. The design of heterostructure nanowires and graphene composite structure provides an advanced strategy for the rapid capture–diffusion–conversion process of polysulfides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The "shuttle effect" of soluble polysulfides and slow reaction kinetics hinder the practical application of Li–S batteries. Transition metal oxides are promising mediators to alleviate these problems, but the poor electrical conductivity limits their further development. Herein, the homogeneous CoNiO2/Co4N nanowires have been fabricated and employed as additive of graphene based sulfur cathode. Through optimizing the nitriding degree, the continuous heterostructure interface can be obtained, accompanied by effective adjustment of energy band structure. By combining the strong adsorptive and catalytic properties of CoNiO2 and electrical conductivity of Co4N, the in situ formed CoNiO2/Co4N heterostructure reveals a synergistic enhancement effect. Theoretical calculation and experimental design show that it can not only significantly inhibit "shuttle effect" through chemisorption and catalytic conversion of polysulfides, but also improve the transport rate of ions and electrons. Thus, the graphene composite sulfur cathode supported by these CoNiO2/Co4N nanowires exhibits improved sulfur species reaction kinetics. The corresponding cell provides a high rate capacity of 688 mAh g−1 at 4 C with an ultralow decaying rate of ≈0.07% per cycle over 600 cycles. The design of heterostructure nanowires and graphene composite structure provides an advanced strategy for the rapid capture–diffusion–conversion process of polysulfides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The "shuttle effect" of soluble polysulfides and slow reaction kinetics hinder the practical application of Li–S batteries. Transition metal oxides are promising mediators to alleviate these problems, but the poor electrical conductivity limits their further development. Herein, the homogeneous CoNiO2/Co4N nanowires have been fabricated and employed as additive of graphene based sulfur cathode. Through optimizing the nitriding degree, the continuous heterostructure interface can be obtained, accompanied by effective adjustment of energy band structure. By combining the strong adsorptive and catalytic properties of CoNiO2 and electrical conductivity of Co4N, the in situ formed CoNiO2/Co4N heterostructure reveals a synergistic enhancement effect. Theoretical calculation and experimental design show that it can not only significantly inhibit "shuttle effect" through chemisorption and catalytic conversion of polysulfides, but also improve the transport rate of ions and electrons. Thus, the graphene composite sulfur cathode supported by these CoNiO2/Co4N nanowires exhibits improved sulfur species reaction kinetics. The corresponding cell provides a high rate capacity of 688 mAh g−1 at 4 C with an ultralow decaying rate of ≈0.07% per cycle over 600 cycles. The design of heterostructure nanowires and graphene composite structure provides an advanced strategy for the rapid capture–diffusion–conversion process of polysulfides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compared to preparation on metal substrates, graphene synthesis on non-metal surfaces is highly desirable to avoid the deleterious metallic effects in fabrication of electronic devices. However, study of graphene growth mechanism on non-metal surfaces is rare and little understood. Here, we report that few-layers graphene films can be grown directly on silicon-on-insulator surface. Furthermore, the graphene growth mechanism on non-metal surfaces is proposed as a surface reaction, adsorption, decomposition, and accumulation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interfacial electronic structures of copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) deposited on a single-layer graphene (SLG) film prepared on Cu and SiO2 substrates (SLG/Cu and SLG/SiO2) were investigated using ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy. The ionization energy of CuPc on SLG/Cu and SLG/SiO2 substrate is, respectively, 5.62 eV and 4.97 eV. The energy level alignments at the two interfaces were estimated. The results revealed that the height of the electron (hole) injection barriers are 1.20 (1.10) and 1.38 (0.92) eV at CuPc/SLG/Cu and CuPc/SLG/SiO2 interfaces, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phase-to-coordinate conversion is an important step for accurate 3-D shape measurement by use of structured light methods. We propose to use an absolute phase map in the Fourier transform method to achieve better accuracy in the phase-to-coordinate conversion. A cross-shaped marker is embedded in the fringe pattern that is projected onto the object. The position of the marker in the captured fringe image is detected and utilized to calculate the absolute phase map. For phase analysis of the fringe image, the marker is removed and the sinusoidal intensity distribution of the fringe pattern is restored before the forward and inverse Fourier transforms are applied. Experimental results of absolute phase retrieval and 3-D reconstruction are presented to show the feasibility of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vapor cells with antirelaxation coating are widely used in modern atomic physics experiments due to the coating's ability to maintain the atoms' spin polarization during wall collisions. We characterize the performance of vapor cells with different coating materials by measuring longitudinal spin relaxation and vapor density at temperatures up to 95 °C. We infer that the spin-projection-noise-limited sensitivity for atomic magnetometers with such cells improves with temperature, which demonstrates the potential of antirelaxation coated cells in applications of future high-sensitivity magnetometers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose a method to improve the performance of two entanglement-based continuous-variable quantum key distribution protocols using noiseless linear amplifiers. The two entanglement-based schemes consist of an entanglement distribution protocol with an untrusted source and an entanglement swapping protocol with an untrusted relay. Simulation results show that the noiseless linear amplifiers can improve the performance of these two protocols, in terms of maximal transmission distances, when we consider small amounts of entanglement, as typical in realistic setups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was the most common primary liver cancer, and its resistance to anti-tumor drugs often caused the death of patients suffering with HCC. Matrix stiffness was reported to be closely related to tumor chemoresistance; however, the relationship between HCC drug resistance and three-dimensional (3D) matrix stiffness is still unclear at present. In this study, alginate gel (ALG) beads with controllable matrix stiffness were used to mimic tumor tissue rigidity, and the role of 3D matrix stiffness in regulating the chemoresistance of HCC cells was investigated by using these ALG beads. It was found that HCC cells in ALG beads with 105 kPa stiffness had highest resistance to paclitaxel, 5-FU, and cisplatin. Although the mechanism was still uncovered, ABC transporters and endoplasmic reticulum stress-related molecules were highly expressed in ALG bead-encapsulated HCC cells compared with two-dimensional-cultured cells, which suggested a very complex mechanism underlying HCC drug resistance in 3D culture conditions. In addition, to mimic the specific stiffness of HCC tumor tissue, or other tumor tissues in vivo, response surface methodology (RSM) was used to build up a prediction mathematical model so that ALG beads with desired matrix stiffness could be prepared by simply changing three factors: molecular weight, G content, and alginate concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protein arginine methyltransferases (PRMTs) catalyze the transfer of the methyl group from S-adenosyl-L-methionine (AdoMet) to arginine residues. There are three types of PRMTs (I, II and III) that produce different methylation products, including asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) and monomethylarginine (MMA). Since these different methylations can lead to different biological consequences, understanding the origin of product specificity of PRMTs is of considerable interest. In this article, the quantum mechanical/molecular mechanical (QM/MM) molecular dynamics (MD) and free energy simulations are performed to study SDMA catalyzed by the Type II PRMT5 on the basis of experimental observation that the dimethylated product is generated through a distributive fashion. The simulations have identified some important interactions and proton transfers during the catalysis. Similar to the cases involving Type I PRMTs, a conserved Glu residue (Glu435) in PRMT5 is suggested to function as general base catalyst based on the result of the simulations. Moreover, our results show that PRMT5 has an energetic preference for the first methylation on Nη1 followed by the second methylation on a different ω-guanidino nitrogen of arginine (Nη2).The first and second methyl transfers are estimated to have free energy barriers of 19-20 and 18-19 kcal/mol respectively. The computer simulations suggest a distinctive catalytic mechanism of symmetric dimethylation that seems to be different from asymmetric dimethylation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective The purpose of this study was to present the surgical technique and clinical results of percutaneous compression plate ( PCCP) for the treatment of femoral neck fractures. Methods Between December 2010 and April 2013, 74 consecutive patients with 74 femoral neck fractures were treated by closed reduction and PCCP implants in our university hospital. Their mean age was 51.3 years (range, 15-83 years); 38 (51.4%) were male and 46 (62.2%) of the fractures were on the left. The patients' clinical and radiographic data were analyzed retrospectively. Results There were 45 undisplaced (60.8%) and 29 displaced fractures (39.2%). Eight patients (10.8%) were lost to follow-up. The mean duration of follow-up was 18.8 months for the remaining 66 patients. At the last follow-up, mean Harris hip score was 92.9 (range, 75-100), and 65 patients (98.5%) had excellent and good outcomes. Sixty-five patients (98.5%) were able to walk independently and one (1.5%) with walking-sticks. The mean time to clinical fracture healing was 3.9 months. There were no cases of nonunion. Two patients (3.0%) had delayed union and two (3.0%) developed avascular necrosis, one of 29 (3.7%) with a displaced fracture and one of 45 (2.6%) with an undisplaced fracture. There were no other complications or prosthetic replacement. Conclusions PCCP is a stable internal fixation device that resists axial and rotational stresses. Our PCCP procedure has a low incidence of nonunion and avascular necrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been theoretically predicted that N-photon quantum imaging can realize either an N-fold resolution improvement (Heisenberg-like scaling) or a √N -fold resolution improvement (standard quantum limit) beyond the Rayleigh diffraction bound, over classical imaging. Here, we report the experimental study on spatial sub-Rayleigh quantum imaging using a two-photon entangled source. Two experimental schemes are proposed and performed. In a Fraunhofer diffraction scheme with a lens, two-photon Airy disk pattern is observed with subwavelength diffraction property. In a lens imaging apparatus, however, two-photon sub-Rayleigh imaging for an object is realized with super-resolution property. The experimental results agree with the theoretical prediction in the two-photon quantum imaging regime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biorefinery process for lignocellulose conversion generally requires fractionation of its three major components including cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. The present work demonstrates that the alkaline hydrogen peroxide (AHP) method for fractionating lignocelluloses, such as corncob, is advantageous due to its modest reaction conditions, low alkaline usage, and effective fractionation of three components. The removal ratio of lignin and hemicellulose after 6 h treatment reached 75.4% and 38.7%, respectively, leaving the recovery ratio of cellulose in the AHP residues at 81.3%. After 24h enzymatic hydrolysis of the AHP residues, we found that the degree of cellulose conversion was approximately 80%. Through ethanol precipitation and desalination, 89% of dissolved hemicellulose was recovered as white solids, whereas 77.5% of soluble lignin was obtained as brown solids. The isolated three components were further characterized. The major pyrolysis temperature of the AHP residues increased. And the recovered lignin revealed an increase in carboxylic acid content and a decrease in phenolic hydroxyl content by oxidation of H2O2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although a variety of functional metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have been synthesized, post-modified, and applied in various areas, there is little knowledge about how molecular cluster building units are stepwise evolved into MOFs via intermediates. Coordination bonds are generally stronger than hydrogen bonds, and thus equivalent replacement of X-H···Y hydrogen bonds by X-M-Y coordination bonds can transform hydrogen bond networks into MOFs. In this work, solvothermal in situ reduction reactions of CuBr2 and 1,4-diazoniabicyclo[2,2,2]octane (DABCO) generated a myriad of tunable photoluminescent cuprous body-centered cubic bromide cluster-based networks with the general formula [Cu4+xH4-xBr6(DABCO)4](HCO2)2·S (x = 0, 0.56, 0.81, 1.27, 1.39, 2.56, 2.78, and 4 for compounds 1-8, respectively). All of these compounds crystallize in the cubic space group with the largest volume difference being only 5.2%, but they belong to three remarkably different kinds of crystals. Complex 1 is a molecular crystal and consists of tetrahedral [Cu4Br6(HDABCO)4]2+ clusters with monodentate HDABCO groups that are supported via N-H···Br synthons in the hydrogen bond network. Compound 8 is a [Cu8Br6]2+ cube cluster-based MOF with bridged DABCO ligands. Complexes 2-7 are seemingly impossible Cu/H-substituted solid solutions of 1 and 8. The CuBr framework components in 1-8 are Cu4Br6, Cu4.56Br6, Cu4.81Br6, Cu5.27Br6, Cu5.39Br6, Cu6.56Br6, Cu6.78Br6, and Cu8Br6, respectively. Crystallization kinetics studies revealed that the [Cu4Br6(HDABCO)4]2+ cluster-based hydrogen bond network (1) was initially formed such that N-H···Br hydrogen bonds could be stepwise replaced by N-Cu-Br coordination bonds to form the [Cu8Br6]2+ cube cluster-based MOF (8) via solid solutions. These observations directly reveal the equivalence and transformation between the N-H···Br hydrogen bond and the N-Cu-Br coordination bond and the evolutionary mechanism of a molecular crystal to a MOF via solid solutions, which is of fundamental importance in materials but has never before been revealed. DFT calculations suggest that equivalent replacement of a N-H···Br hydrogen bond by a N-Cu-Br coordination bond is exothermic and exergonic, which also supports the transformation from molecule 1 to MOF 8. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play very important roles in the photocatalytic reactions of semiconductors. Using a continuous flow chemiluminescence (CFCL) system, we developed three methods for the selective, sensitive, and online detection of O2•-, •OH, and H2O2 generated during ultraviolet (UV) irradiation of nano-TiO2 suspensions. TiO2 nanoparticles were irradiated in a photoreactor and pumped continuously into a detection cell. To detect O2•-, luminol was mixed with TiO2 before it entered the detection cell. For the detection of shortlived •OH, phthalhydrazide was added into the photoreactor to capture •OH, and then mixed with H2O2/KsCu(HIO6)2 to produce chemiluminescence (CL). To detect H2O2, an irradiated TiO2 suspension was kept in darkness for 30 min, and then mixed with luminol/K3Fe(CN)6 to produce CL. The selectivity of each method for a particular ROS was verified by using specific ROS scavengers. For a given ROS, a comparison between CL and conventional method showed good agreement for a series of TiO2 concentrations. The sensitivity of CL method was approximately 3-, 1200-, and 5-fold higher than the conventional method for O2•-, •OH, and H2O2 respectively. To demonstrate the utility of the methods, ROS in three different types of TiO2 suspensions was detected by CFCL. It was found that photodegradation efficiency of Rhodamine B correlated the best (R2 > 0.95) with the amount of photogenerated •OH, implying that •OH was the major oxidant in Rhodamine B photodegradation reaction. CFCL may provide a convenient tool for the studies on the reaction kinetics of ROS-partidpated decomposition of environmental contaminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sapindus mukorossi Gaertn is also known as Mu Huanzi, You Huanzi, soap tree, etc. The pericarp of Sapindus mukorossi contains many saponins, which is a type of natural non-ionic surfactant. Its extract has vigorous surface activity and biological activities such as bacteriostasis, oxidation resistance, and free radical scavenging. The Sapindus mukorossi extract is an environmentally friendly washing product that microorganisms can be rapidly decompose in nature without any environmental pollution.This study aims to investigate the effects of E-beam and Co60-γ irradiation on the total saponins content in the crude extract of the S mukorossi. The S mukorossi powder is irradiated with E-beam and Co60-γ ray at doses of 0, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 kGy for E-beam and 0, 50, 100, 150, and 200 Gy, respectively, for Co60-γ ray. The changes in the content of total saponins in the crude extract, total detergency, and the bacteriostatic abilities before and after the irradiation were analyzed. The results showed that the content of total saponins in samples irradiated by E-beam was significantly higher than that in non-irradiated samples. The saponins yield was the highest at a radiation dose of 6 kGy, and the detergency and bacteriostatic ability were also the strongest. After lowdose Co60-γ irradiation, the total saponins in the S mukorossi crude extract, and detergency and bacteriostatic ability had no apparent change. Conclusion: E-beam irradiation at a dose of 6 kGy can effectively improve the content of total saponins in the crude extract of S mukorossi powder. In addition, its effects on detergency and bacteriostatic abilities are relatively significant. The findings provide sufficient reference data for the further development of S mukorossi commodities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The crystalline structures and magnetic and thermodynamic properties of a Gd4Ga2O9 single crystal grown with the optical floating zone technique have been investigated. Gd4Ga2O9 crystallizes in a monoclinic structure with the space group P21/c at room temperature. Temperature‐dependent magnetic susceptibility measurements along the three crystallographic axes reveal a paramagnetic (PM) behavior between 2 and 300 K. A Curie–Weiss (CW) law fit was carried out and the CW temperature gθCW and magnetic frustration parameter f were calculated; these suggest antiferromagnetic (AFM) interactions between Gd3+ spins and a strong magnetic frustration. The field dependence of the magnetization at 2 K further confirms the magnetic frustration characteristics. A distinct λ‐shaped peak at 1.4 K in the heat capacity curves suggests a transition from the PM to AFM phase. The magnetic entropy is contributed solely by Gd3+ ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The degradation of the electrical contact in a gas insulated switchgear (GIS) is closely related to overheating at the contact. However, the disconnector contact is one of the hot contacts in GIS. Therefore, in this paper, the finite element method was used to solve the three-dimensional multiphysics coupling temperature rise field and flow field in the Single Phase in One Tank (SPIOT) type GIS disconnector under different operating conditions. From the perspective of temperature rise field and flow field, this paper analyzed the temperature rise characteristics under different working conditions and explored the feasibility of the direct application of air, CO2 and C4F7N/CO2 mixed gas to an electrical device. The disconnector temperature rise experiment platform was then built to verify the simulation. The results showed that the temperature rise field and the flow field distribution were similar in four gas environments. SF6 gas had the smallest temperature rise, followed by C4F7N/CO2 mixed gas, and the temperature rise of CO2 and air was relatively large. Therefore, from the perspective of the temperature rise field and flow field, it was feasible to directly apply C4F7N/CO2 mixed gas to an electrical device in order to meet insulation requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a conventional insulating material, boron nitride (BN) has been mainly investigated in the electronics field. Very recently, with the development of preparation/modification technology and deeper understanding of the electrochemical mechanisms, BN‐based nanomaterials have made significant progress in the field of electrochemistry. Exploiting the characteristics of BN for advanced electrochemical devices is expected to be a breakthrough that will stimulate a new energy revolution. Owing to its chemical and thermal stability, as well as its high mechanical strength, BN can alleviate various inherent problems in electrochemical systems, such as thermal deformation of conventional organic separators, weak solid electrolyte interface layers of metal anodes, and electrocatalyst poisoning. The integration of BN with various electrochemical energy technologies is systematically summarized from the perspectives of material preparation, theoretical calculations, and practical applications. Moreover, the challenges and prospects for the future development of BN‐based electrochemistry are highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The liquid electrolyte in conventional zinc/manganese dioxide (Zn/MnO2) batteries conduces to the capacity limitation of one‐electron redox from MnO2 to MnOOH, as well as undesired Mn loss with capacity deterioration. Herein, to conquer these challenges, a new idea is proposed on the precise proton redistribution in the hydrogel electrolyte for the preferred two‐electron redox reaction. Specifically, an acidic layer in the hydrogel adjoins the MnO2 cathode to maintain the two‐electron redox, a neutral layer adjoins the zinc anode to inhibit the dendrite growth, which is separated by a mildly alkaline layer to immobilize the proton distribution. The two‐electron redox of MnO2/Mn2+ and anode protection are demonstrated to play key roles in battery performance. Such a battery presents specific capacities of 516 mA h g−1 at 0.05 A g−1, as well as a capacity retention of 93.18% at 5 A g−1 after 5000 cycles without extra Mn2+ addition in the electrolyte. More importantly, fibrous Zn/MnO2 batteries using the tri‐layer electrolyte can sustain 2000 cycles with high initial capacity of 235 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1. After 6000 times folding in 180°, it can maintain 99.54% capacity. When integrated into user's clothing or portable accessories, the fibrous battery is demonstrated as a great potential in wearable electronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the pharmacokinetics of docetaxel liposomes modified with 6-O-acyl-D-galactose esters (Gal-DOC-L) in rabbits. A simple, rapid and sensitive high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method was developed for the determination of docetaxel. Gal-DOC-L was intravenously administered to rabbits with norethisterone as the internal standard and the blood samples were collected from ear marginal veins at 0.083, 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16 and 24 h after treatment. The plasma concentration of docetaxel was determined by HPLC and the pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated. Docetaxel injection (DOC-I) was studied simultaneously. The results showed that the area under the curve(0-∞), t1/2α and t1/2β of Gal-DOC-L was significantly higher, while the total body clearance was lower than that of DOC-I. The results indicated that Gal-DOC-L was able to maintain a relatively high blood concentration in vivo and prolong the treatment time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study on Chinese family with multisystem disorder tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). The study included mutation screening of the TSC1/TSC2 gene, extraction of genomic DNA, and primer designing for amplification of TSC1/TSC2 gene's whole exons and exon-intron boundaries, and polymerase chain reaction. Also mentions that the study showed autosomal dominant inheritance for the TSC.

Abstract: The interfacial electronic structure of MoO3− x /graphene has been investigated using photoemission spectroscopy. The experimental data showed that upon deposition of MoO3− x , the Fermi level of graphene shifts downward gradually from its Dirac point due to the p-type doping effect. From the Fermi level shift of −0.28eV, the hole density of graphene was estimated to be 5.44×1012 cm−2. The formation of surface negative dipole due to electron transfer from graphene to the deposited MoO3− x films increased the sample′s work function. The existence of gap states in MoO3− x induced by oxygen vacancies greatly reduced the hole injection barrier at the MoO3− x /graphene interface. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Since any realistic electronic device has some degree of disorder, predicting disorder effects in quantum transport is a critical problem. Here, we report the theory of nonequilibrium coherent potential approximation (NECPA) for analyzing disorder effects in nonequilibrium quantum transport of nanoelectronic devices. The NECPA is formulated by contour-ordered nonequilibrium Green's function where the disorder average is carried out within the coherent potential approximation on the complex-time contour. We have derived a set of rules that supplement the celebrated Langreth theorem and, as a whole, the generalized Langreth rules allow us to derive NECPA equations for real-time Green's functions. The solution of NECPA equations provides the disorder-averaged nonequilibrium density matrix as well as other relevant quantities for quantum transport calculations. We establish the excellent accuracy of NECPA by comparing its results to brute force numerical calculations of disordered tight-binding models. Moreover, the connection of NECPA equations which are derived on the complex-time contour to the nonequilibrium vertex correction theory which is derived on the real-time axis is made. As an application, we demonstrate that NECPA can be combined with density functional theory to enable analysis of nanoelectronic device physics from atomistic first principles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Lau effect is a self-imaging formed in the far field of a pair of gratings illuminated by spatially incoherent light. We report the experimental demonstration of the second-order Lau effect with incoherently pseudo-thermal light. Spatially periodic structures were nonlocally superposed giving rise to interference patterns in intensity correlation measurement. The experimental results are in agreement with the theoretical analysis. The second-order Lau effect can be well understood by the unfolded version of the experimental setup where the bucket detection can be thought as the incoherent illumination in classical Lau effect. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) are known to accumulate in liver and induce hepatotoxicity on experimental animals. Liver fatty acid binding protein (LFABP) is expressed highly in hepatocytes and binds fatty acids. PFCs may bind with FABP and change their ADME and toxicity profile. In the present study, the binding interaction of 17 structurally diverse PFCs with human L-FABP was investigated to assess their potential disruption effect on fatty acid binding. The binding affinity of twelve perfluorinated carboxylic acids (PFCAs), as determined by fluorescence displacement assay, increased significantly with their carbon number from 4 to 11, and decreased slightly when the number was over 11. The three perfluorinated sulfonic acids (PFSAs) displayed comparable affinity, but no binding was detected for the two fluorotelomer alcohols. Circular dichroism results showed that PFC binding induced distinctive structural changes of the protein. Molecular docking revealed that the driving forces for the binding of PFCs with FABP were predominantly hydrophobic and hydrogen-bonding interactions, and the binding geometry was dependent on both the size and rigidity of the PFCs. Based on the binding constant obtained in this work, the possibility of in vivo competitive displacement of fatty acids from FABP by PFCs was estimated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to random dopant fluctuations, the device-to-device variability is a serious challenge to emerging nanoelectronics. In this work we present theoretical formalisms and numerical simulations of quantum-transport variability, based on the Green's function technique and the multiple-scattering theory. We have developed a general formalism using the diagrammatic technique within the coherent-potential approximation that can be applied to a wide range of disorder concentrations. In addition, we have developed a method by using a perturbative expansion within the low-concentration approximation that is extremely useful for typical nanoelectronic devices having low dopant concentration. Applying both formalisms, transport fluctuations due to random impurities can be predicted without lengthy brute force computation of ensembles of device structures. Numerical implementations of the formalisms are demonstrated using both tight-binding models and first-principles models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) have been occupying the dominant position in energy storage devices. Over the past 30 years, silicon (Si)‐based materials are the most promising alternatives for graphite as LIB anodes due to their high theoretical capacities and low operating voltages. Nevertheless, their extensive volume changes in battery operation causes the structural collapse of Si‐based electrodes, as well as severe side reactions. In this review, the preparation methods and structure optimizations of Si‐based materials are highlighted, as well as their applications in half and full cells. Meanwhile, the developments of promising electrolytes, binders and separators that match Si‐based electrodes in half and full cells have made great progress. Pre‐lithiation technology has been introduced to compensate for irreversible Li+ consumption during battery operation, thereby improving the energy densities and lifetime of Si‐based full cells. More importantly, almost all related mechanisms of Si‐based electrodes in half and full cells are summarized in detail. It is expected to provide a comprehensive insight on how to develop high‐performance Si‐based full cells. The work can help us understand what happens during the lithiation process, the primary causes of Si‐based half and full cells failure, and strategies to overcome these challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) is an important device element for many practical spintronic systems. In this paper, we propose and theoretically investigate a very attractive MTJ Fe(001)/O/ NaCl(001)/O/Fe(001) as a two-terminal transport junction. By density functional theory total energy methods, we establish two viable device models: one with and the other without mirror symmetry across the center plane of the structure. Large tunnel magnetoresistance ratio (TMR) is predicted from first principles, at over 1800% and 3600% depending on the symmetry. Microscopically, a spin filtering effect is responsible for the large TMR. This effect essentially filters out all the minority spin channels (spin-down) from contributing to the tunnelling current. On the other hand, transport of the majority spin channel (spin-up) having D1 and D5 symmetry is enhanced by the FeO buffer layer in the MTJ. VC 2015 AIP Publishing LLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molybdenum oxides have attracted much interest due to their unique electronic properties. Here, we report a convenient and efficient method to synthesize centimeter-scale single crystal of MoO3 ribbons through an atmospheric pressure physical vapor deposition approach. Optical microscopy, atomic force microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), selected area electron diffraction, and x-ray diffraction measurements reveal that the MoO3 ribbons grow along the MoO3⟨100⟩ direction and the top surface is MoO3(010) plane. Raman spectroscopy, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and cross-sectional HRTEM results disclose that the surface of MoO3 ribbons can be transformed from MoO3 to MoO2 through H2 annealing treatment forming MoO2/MoO3 heterostructure. We found that the conductance and ultraviolet photoresponsivity of the MoO3 ribbons can be improved by ∼11 and ∼5 orders of magnitude, respectively, after H2 annealing treatment, which will be helpful for the applications of MoO3 in the optoelectronic field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exogenous chemicals may produce DNA methylation that is potentially toxic to living systems. Methylated DNA bases are difficult to detect with biosensors because the methyl group is small and chemically inert. In this report, a label-free photoelectrochemical sensor was developed for the selective detection of chemically methylated bases in DNA films. The sensor employed two DNA repair enzymes, human alkyladenine DNA glycosylase and human apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease, to convert DNA methylation sites in DNA films on indium tin oxide electrodes into strand breaks. A DNA intercalator, Ru(bpy)2(dppz)2+ (bpy=2,2'-bipyridine, dppz = dipyrido[3,2-a:2',3'-c]phenazine) was then used as the photoelectrochemical signal indicator to detect the DNA strand breaks. Its photocurrent signal was found to correlate inversely with the amount of 3-methyladenines (metAde) produced with a methylating agent, methylmethane sulfonate (MMS). The sensor detected the methylated bases produced with as low as 1 mM MMS, at which concentration the amount of metAde on the sensor surface was estimated to be 0.5 pg, or 1 metAde in 1.6 × 105 normal bases. Other DNA base modification products, such as 5-methylcytosine and DNA adducts with ethyl and styrene groups did not attenuate the photocurrent, demonstrating good selectivity of the sensor. This strategy can be utilized to develop sensors for the detection of other modified DNA bases with specific DNA repair enzymes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose an improved two-way continuous-variable quantum key distribution (CV QKD) protocol by adding proper random noise on the receiver's homodyne detection, the security of which is analysed against general collective attacks. The simulation result under the collective entangling cloner attack indicates that despite the correlation between two-way channels decreasing the secret key rate relative to the uncorrelated channels slightly, the performance of the two-way protocol is still far beyond that of the one-way protocols. Importantly, the added noise in detection is beneficial for the secret key rate and the tolerable excess noise of this two-way protocol. With the reasonable reconciliation efficiency of 90%, the two-way CV QKD with added noise allows the distribution of secret keys over 60 km fibre distance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dystonia is a rare manifestation of multiple sclerosis (MS), but it always interferes with the functional performance and quality of life. We report a rare case of long-lasting paroxysmal dystonia associated with MS. The patient was a 40-year-old woman with relapsing- remitting MS for 6 years. During the latest attack of MS, she suffered from long-lasting paroxysmal dystonia in her left hand. Despite treatment with pulse high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone, interferon, and baclofen, along with occupational therapy, the dystonia persisted and significantly bothered her daily activities. Finally, she was treated with oral acetazolamide (250 mg, three times a day for 4 days), which was very effective for the control of her dystonia. The dystonic movement subsided without recurrence in a follow-up of 17 months. We advocate this effective and safe treatment for patients with paroxysmal dystonia associated with MS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) have been reported to interfere with the endocrine system in vivo by mimicking endogenous hormone activities and causing adverse effects. Some exoestrogens bind to estrogen receptor (ER) and subsequently induce an ER-mediated response. The transcriptional activity of ER is regulated by its distinct conformational states that are the results of ligand binding. In this work, a biosensor based on surface plasmon resonance (SPR) technique was developed which can discriminate between agonist and antagonist of human ERα (hERα) by monitoring the conformation state of the protein induced by ligand binding. The biosensor utilized the specific interaction between hERα and conformation-selective peptides. Six PFAAs with different chain lengths and acid groups were tested by the biosensor, and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) were found to be ER agonists. Kinetic analyses of direct interaction between PFAAs and hERα by SPR revealed that PFOS and PFOA were both weak binders of ER with KD values of 2.19 and 107 μM respectively, whereas the other four PFAAs did not bind with ER. To understand the differences in ER binding affinity and estrogenic activity among the six PFAAs, molecular docking based on the crystal structure of hERα ligand binding domain was performed. PFOS and PFOA were efficiently docked with hERα and formed hydrogen bonds with Arg394 in a manner similar to estradiol. Overall, the two 8-carbon PFAAs were assessed as weak agonists of hERα and are of potential concern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inflammatory mediators are closely associated with the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative changes in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Osteopontin (OPN) is a proinflammatory cytokine that has been shown to play an important role in various neuroinflammatory diseases. However, the function of OPN in AD and MCI progression is not well defined. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma samples were obtained from35 AD patients, 31 MCI patients, and 20 other noninflammatory neurologic diseases (OND). Concentrations of OPN in the CSF and plasma were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. During a 3-year clinical followup, 13 MCI patients convert ed to AD (MCI converters), and 18 were clinically stable (MCI nonconverters). CSF OPN concentrations were significantly increased in AD and MCI converters compared to OND, and increased levels of OPN in AD were associated with MMSE score; OPN protein levels both in the CSF and plasma of newly diagnosed AD patients were higher than that of chronical patients. In MCI converters individuals tested longitudinally, both plasma and CSF OPN concentrations were significantly elevated when they received a diagnosis of AD during followup. Further wide-scale studies are necessary to confirm these results and to shed light on the etiopathogenic role of osteopontin in AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report an extensive theoretical investigation of impurity doping and alloying effects to spin-polarized quantum tunneling in Fe/MgO/Fe magnetic tunneling junctions. We find that with proper impurity atoms, an optimal device characteristic regime can be established where the junction resistance Rj is nonlinearly quenched while the tunnel magnetoresistance ratio (TMR) is only linearly reduced. As a consequence, the spin transfer torque is significantly increased by a factor similar to the Rj reduction. We search for this optimal device regime using first-principles calculations by doping MgO with different impurity atoms. We predict that Zn has the desired property due to a well-balanced effect of producing gap states that mediate charge transport, thus quenching Rj, and producing relatively weak interchannel coupling to alleviate the detrimental diffusive scattering effect on the TMR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Certain lysine residues on histone tails could be methylated by protein lysine methyltransferases (PKMTs) using S-adenosyl- L-methionine (AdoMet) as the methyl donor. Since the methylation states of the target lysines play a fundamental role in the regulation of chromatin structure and gene expression, it is important to study the property of PKMTs that allows a specific number of methyl groups (one, two or three) to be added (termed as product specificity). It has been shown that the product specificity of PKMTs may be controlled in part by the existence of specific residues at the active site. One of the best examples is a Phe/Tyr switch found in many PKMTs. Here quantum mechanical/molecular mechanical (QM/MM) molecular dynamics (MD) and free energy simulations are performed on wild type G9a-like protein (GLP) and its F1209Y and Y1124F mutants for understanding the energetic origin of the product specificity and the reasons for the change of product specificity as a result of single-residue mutations at the Phe/Tyr switch as well as other positions. The free energy barriers of the methyl transfer processes calculated from our simulations are consistent with experimental data, supporting the suggestion that the relative free energy barriers may determine, at least in part, the product specificity of PKMTs. The changes of the free energy barriers as a result of the mutations are also discussed based on the structural information obtained from the simulations. The results suggest that the space and active-site interactions around the e-amino group of the target lysine available for methyl addition appear to among the key structural factors in controlling the product specificity and activity of PKMTs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report on a first-principles investigation of photocurrent generation by graphene PN junctions. The junctions are formed by either chemically doping with nitrogen and boron atoms, or by controlling gate voltages. The nonequilibrium Green's function formalism combined with density functional theory is applied to calculate the photoresponse function. The graphene PN junctions show a broadband photoresponse including the terahertz range. The dependence of the response on the angle between the light polarization vector and the PN interface is determined. Its variation against photon energy Eph is calculated in the visible range. The essential properties of chemically doped and gate-controlled PN junctions are similar, but the former shows fingerprints of dopant distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Centrosomes are microtubule-organizing centers that nucleate spindle microtubules during cell division. In budding yeast, the centrosome, often referred to as the spindle pole body, shares structural components with the centriole, the central core of the animal centrosome. The parental centrosome is duplicated when DNA replication takes place. Like sister chromatids tethered together by cohesin, duplicated centrosomes are linked and then separate to form the bipolar spindle necessary for chromosome segregation. Recent studies have shown that cohesin is also localized to the animal centrosome and is perhaps directly involved in engaging paired centrioles. Here we discuss the potential role of cohesin in mediating spindle-pole-body cohesion in the context of yeast meiosis. We propose that the coordination of chromosome segregation with centrosome cohesion and duplication is mediated by the antagonistic interaction between the Aurora kinase and the Polo kinase and that the role of cohesin in centrosome regulation appears to be indirect in budding yeast. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The streak artifacts caused by metal implants degrade the image quality and limit the applications of CT imaging. The standard method used to reduce these metallic artifacts often consists of interpolating the missing projection data but the result is often a loss of image quality with additional artifacts in the whole image. This paper proposes a new strategy based on a three- stage process: (1) the application of a large-scale non local means filter (LS-NLM) to suppress the noise and enhance the original CT image, (2) the segmentation of metal artifacts and metallic objects using a mutual information maximized segmentation algorithm (MIMS), (3) a modified exemplar-based in-painting technique to restore the corrupted projection data in sinogram. The final corrected image is then obtained by merging the segmented metallic object image with the filtered back- projection (FBP) reconstructed image from the in-painted sinogram. Quantitative and qualitative experiments have been conducted on both a simulated phantom and clinical CT images and a comparative study has been led with Bal's algorithm that proposed a similar segmentation-based method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play important roles in pathogenesis and development of cancer. Recently, lots of studies showed that there were associations between polymorphisms in the promoter regions of MMPs and risk of colorectal cancer; however, the results remained inconclusive. To clarify these associations, we conducted a meta-analysis. Methods: We conducted a computerized literature search in the database of PubMed, Embase, ISI Web of Knowledge, and Medline (from January 2000 to July 2010). Overall and subgroup analysis based on the ethnicity of study population was carried out. Odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95%CI) were used to evaluate these associations. Statistical analysis was performed with software Review Manager (version 5.0). Results: There were 12 studies involving five polymorphic sites in four MMP genes. For MMP1 (−1607), 2G polymorphism increased the risk of colorectal cancer under dominant and recessive models (dominant, OR = 1.23, 95%CI 1.01-1.49; recessive, OR = 1.52, 95%CI 1.30-1.77). For MMP3 (−1612), 6A/6A genotype increased this risk under the recessive model (OR = 1.33, 95%CI 1.04-1.70); however, this association was lost under the dominant model. For MMP2 −1306 C>T, MMP3 −1171 5A>6A, and MMP9 −1562 C>T, there was no association between these polymorphisms and the risk of colorectal cancer under the dominant and recessive models. Conclusions: Polymorphisms of MMP1 (−1607) and MMP3 (−1612) increased the risk of colorectal cancer; these two polymorphic sites could be used as markers for early diagnosis of colorectal cancer. However, for MMP2 (−1306), MMP3 (−1171), and MMP9 (−1562), further studies with large sample size should be carried out. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glycine molecules deposited on a Cu(100) surface give rise to an anisotropic free-electron-like (FEL) electronic dispersion in its p(2×4) superstructure, as reported in recent experiments [ K. Kanazawa et al. Phys. Rev. Lett. 99 216102 (2007); J. Am. Chem. Soc. 129 740 (2007)]. Using density functional theory and exhaustively calculating sixteen possible structures, we have determined the molecular arrangement that can give the experimentally observed FEL behavior. Eight configurations, among the sixteen, were not investigated before in the literature and one of them (denoted Str-3) is able to provide the FEL behavior in excellent agreement with the experiments. In addition, the particular configuration Str-3 satisfies other criteria of the observed p(2×4) superstructure, e.g., chirality and cleavable orientation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study the dynamics of two identical atoms resonantly coupled to a single-mode cavity under practical feedback control, and focus on the detection inefficiency. The entanglement is induced to vanish in finite time by the inefficiency of detection. Counterintuitively, the asymptotic entanglement and quantum discord can be increased by the inefficiency of detection. The noise of detection triggers the control field to create entanglement and discord when no photons are emitted from the atoms. Furthermore, sudden change happens to the dynamics of entanglement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three novel human insulin-releasing cell lines designated 1.1B4, 1.4E7, and 1.1E7 were generated by electrofusion of freshly isolated of human pancreatic beta cells and the immortal human PANC-1 epithelial cell line. Functional studies demonstrated glucose sensitivity and responsiveness to known modulators of insulin secretion. Western blot, RT-PCR, and immunohistochemistry showed expression of the major genes involved in proinsulin processing and the pancreatic beta cell stimulus-secretion pathway including PC1/3, PC2, GLUT-1, glucokinase, and K-ATP channel complex (Sur1 and Kir6.2) and the voltage-dependent L-type Ca2+ channel. The cells stained positively for insulin, and 1.1B4 cells were used to demonstrate specific staining for insulin, C-peptide, and proinsulin together with insulin secretory granules by electron microscopy. Analysis of metabolic function indicated intact mechanisms for glucose uptake, oxidation/utilization, and phosphorylation by glucokinase. Glucose, alanine, and depolarizing concentrations of K+ were all able to increase [Ca2+]i in at least two of the cell lines tested. Insulin secretion was also modulated by other nutrients, hormones, and drugs acting as stimulators or inhibitors in normal beta cells. Subscapular implantation of the 1.1B4 cell line improved hyperglycemia and resulted in glucose lowering in streptozotocin-diabetic SCID mice. These novel human electrofusion-derived beta cell lines therefore exhibit stable characteristics reminiscent of normal pancreatic beta cells, thereby providing an unlimited source of human insulin-producing cells for basic biochemical studies and pharmacological drug testing plus proof of concept for cellular insulin replacement therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chain reactions on a surface offer an important route to linear nanopatterning. We recently reported cooperative reactions on a silicon surface in which the reaction of one halogen atom with a silicon atom of a silicon dimer induced the halogenation of its neighbouring silicon atom through surface-mediated charge transfer. The reaction was unable to propagate further but here we describe how, by chemically bridging the gaps between the rows of these silicon dimers, this mechanism is able to form extended chains. The agents for chain growth are CH3Cl molecules that dissociatively attach CH3 groups and chlorine atoms to silicon atoms from different dimers. By means of charge transfer through the surface, this gives rise to dangling bonds adjacent to the CH3 groups and chlorine atoms (in effect, 'free radicals') that dissociate further incoming CH3Cl molecules, thereby providing the growing points for chains of indefinite length. This versatile mechanism of chain growth is examined in experiments and using ab initio theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four novel coordination polymers, [Mn2(cptc)(2,2′-bpy)(H2O)]·H2O (1), [Mn2(cptc)(phen)(H2O)]·H2O (2), Mn4(cptc)2(phen)4(H2O)2]·3H2O (3) and [Cd2(cptc)(H2O)3] (4) (H4cptc = cyclopentane-1,2,3,4-tetracarboxylic acid, 2,2′-bpy = 2,2′-bipyridine, phen = 1,10-phenanthroline), have been synthesized by hydrothermal reactions of flexible (1S,2S,3R,4R)-H4cptc with MnCl2/CdCl2. By breaking the mirror plane of symmetry, the meso-cptc ligand is successfully converted into two pairs of enantiomers, the (1R,2S,3S,4R)- and (1S,2R,3R,4S)-cptc groups in 1–3are unprecedented while the documented (1R,2R,3R,4S)- and (1S,2S,3S,4R)-cptc enantiomers exhibit an unprecedented μ6-mode in 4. Layered 1and 2show similar structures and are constructed by centrosymmetric tetranuclear units. 3is a binodal (3,4)-connected layer with Schläfli symbols of (53)2(54·82), in which cptc exhibits two types of μ5-mode bonding. 4has a 3-D pillar layered structure composed of neutral [Cd(cptc)]nlayers and octahedral CdO6pillars. The presence probability of different enantiomers is in agreement with the relative stability of different conformations of cptc calculated by time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Halogenated phenols are widely used as biocides and are considered to be possibly carcinogenic to humans. In this report, a previously developed photoelectrochemical DNA sensor was employed to investigate DNA damage induced by tetra-halogenated quinones, the in vivo metabolites of halogenated phenols. The sensor surface was composed of a double-stranded DNA film assembled on a SnO2 semiconductor electrode. A DNA intercalator, Ru(bpy)2(dppz)2+, was allowed to bind to the DNA film and produce photocurrent upon light irradiation. After the DNA film was exposed to 300 μM tetrafluoro-1,4-benzoquinone (TFBQ), the photocurrent dropped by 20%. In a mixture of 300 μM TFBQ and 2 mM H2O2, the signal dropped by 40%. The signal reduction indicates less binding of Ru(bpy)2(dppz)2+ due to structural damage of ds-DNA in the film. Similar results were obtained with tetra-1,4-chlorobenzoquinone (TCBQ), although the signal was not reduced as much as TFBQ. Fluorescence measurement showed that TFBQ/H2O2 generated more hydroxyl radicals than TCBQ/H2O2. Gel electrophoresis proved that the two benzoquinones produced DNA strand breaks together with H2O2, but not by themselves. Using the photoelectrochemical sensor, it was also found that TCBQ covalently bound with DNA did not produce additional oxidative damage in the presence of H2O2. The combined photoelectrochemistry, gel electrophoresis, and fluorescence data revealed distinctive differences between TFBQ and TCBQ in terms of DNA adduct formation and hydroxyl radical generation. [Figure not available: see fulltext.] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Objective: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) offers temporary haemodynamic support for those with refractory cardiogenic shock after cardiac surgery. We review our 5-year experience regarding ECMO use on those who cannot be weaned from cardiopulmonary bypass after cardiac surgery. We analyse our cases, predict the prognostic factors of survival and compare the short-term and medium-term results. Methods: From January 2002 to December 2006, 1764 patients underwent cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass in our division. Among these, 51 patients (2.9%) required venoarterial-mode ECMO for haemodynamic support because of refractory postcardiotomy cardiogenic shock. The indication of ECMO was refractory cardiogenic shock despite adequate filling volumes, large-dose inotropes and intra-aortic balloon pump support. The following cardiac surgical procedures were performed: coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), n =27; valvular surgery, n =11; CABG plus valvular surgery, n =7; heart transplantation, n =4 and other procedures, n =2. Results: Average age was 63.0±15.7 years. There were 36 male and 15 female patients. Average duration of ECMO was 7.5±6.7 days. Twenty-seven (53%) patients could be successfully weaned from ECMO. The 30-day and 3-month mortalities were 49% (25/51) and 65% (33/51). The in-hospital mortality was 67% (34/51 patients). Seventeen (33%) patients could be successfully discharged. Fifteen (29%) patients were still alive at 1-year outpatient department (OPD) follow-up. Conclusions: ECMO provides a good temporary cardiopulmonary support in patients with postcardiotomy shock. The preoperative risk factors of failure to withdraw ECMO are poor left-ventricular ejection fraction, systolic blood pressure <90mmHg and refractory severe metabolic acidosis. The peri-ECMO predictors of mortality include low serum albumin level, low platelet count, low oxygen pressure of the venous tube of the ECMO and poor cardiac systolic function. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]