bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pre-dispersal strategies by Quercus schottkyana to mitigate the effects of weevil infestation of acorns
Authors: Xia Ke , Harrower William L. , Turkington Roy , Tan Hong-Yu , Zhou Zhe-Kun
Published: November 2016

We investigated how pre-dispersal strategies may mitigate the effects of weevil infestation of acorns in a population of Quercus schottkyana, a dominant oak in Asian evergreen broad-leaved forests, and assess if weevil infestation contributes to low seedling recruitment. We counted the number of acorns produced, daily from the end of August to mid-late November for 9 years from 2006–2014. We also recorded the rate of acorn infestation by weevils and acorn germination rates of weekly collections. Annual acorn production was variable, but particularly low in 2011 and 2013. There was no trade-off between acorn production and acorn dry mass. However, acorns produced later in the season were significantly heavier. For most years: (i) the rate of weevil infestation was negatively density dependent (a greater proportion of acorns died with increased acorn density), (ii) the percentage germination of acorns was positively density dependent (proportionately more acorns germinated with increased density), and (iii) as the season progressed, the percentage of infested acorns declined while germination rates increased. Finally, (iv) maximum acorn production, percentage infestation and percentage germination were asynchronous. Although pre-dispersal mortality is important it is unlikely to be the primary factor leading to low recruitment of oak seedlings.
Stable Upconversion Nanohybrid Particles for Specific Prostate Cancer Cell Immunodetection
Authors: Shi Yu , Shi Bingyang , Dass Arun V. Everest , Lu Yiqing , Sayyadi Nima , Kautto Liisa , Willows Robert D. , Chung Roger , Piper James , Nevalainen Helena , Walsh Bradley , Jin Dayong , Packer Nicolle H.
Published: November 2016

Prostate cancer is one of the male killing diseases and early detection of prostate cancer is the key for better treatment and lower cost. However, the number of prostate cancer cells is low at the early stage, so it is very challenging to detect. In this study, we successfully designed and developed upconversion immune-nanohybrids (UINBs) with sustainable stability in a physiological environment, stable optical properties and highly specific targeting capability for early-stage prostate cancer cell detection. The developed UINBs were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), dynamic light scattering (DLS) and luminescence spectroscopy. The targeting function of the biotinylated antibody nanohybrids were confirmed by immunofluorescence assay and western blot analysis. The UINB system is able to specifically detect prostate cancer cells with stable and background-free luminescent signals for highly sensitive prostate cancer cell detection. This work demonstrates a versatile strategy to develop UCNPs based sustainably stable UINBs for sensitive diseased cell detection.
An ancient role for nitric oxide in regulating the animal pelagobenthic life cycle: evidence from a marine sponge
Authors: Ueda Nobuo , Richards Gemma S. , Degnan Bernard M. , Kranz Alexandrea , Adamska Maja , Croll Roger P. , Degnan Sandie M.
Published: November 2016

In many marine invertebrates, larval metamorphosis is induced by environmental cues that activate sensory receptors and signalling pathways. Nitric oxide (NO) is a gaseous signalling molecule that regulates metamorphosis in diverse bilaterians. In most cases NO inhibits or represses this process, although it functions as an activator in some species. Here we demonstrate that NO positively regulates metamorphosis in the poriferanAmphimedon queenslandica. High rates ofA. queenslandicametamorphosis normally induced by a coralline alga are inhibited by an inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and by a NO scavenger. Consistent with this, an artificial donor of NO induces metamorphosis even in the absence of the alga. Inhibition of the ERK signalling pathway prevents metamorphosis in concert with, or downstream of, NO signalling; a NO donor cannot override the ERK inhibitor.NOSgene expression is activated late in embryogenesis and in larvae, and is enriched in specific epithelial and subepithelial cell types, including a putative sensory cell, the globular cell; DAF-FM staining supports these cells being primary sources of NO. Together, these results are consistent with NO playing an activating role in induction ofA. queenslandicametamorphosis, evidence of its highly conserved regulatory role in metamorphosis throughout the Metazoa.
Combinational Immunotherapy with Allo-DRibble Vaccines and Anti-OX40 Co-Stimulation Leads to Generation of Cross-Reactive Effector T Cells and Tumor Regression
Authors: Yu Guangjie , Li Yuhuan , Cui Zhihua , Morris Nicholas P. , Weinberg Andrew D. , Fox Bernard A. , Urba Walter J. , Wang Lixin , Hu Hong-Ming
Published: November 2016

It is well-known that vaccines comprising of irradiated whole tumor cells or tumor-derived heat shock proteins can generate tumor-specific immune responses. In contrast, we showed recently that vaccines composed of autophagosomes (DRibbles) derived from syngeneic sarcomas could induce cross-reactive T-cell responses and cross-protection against the tumor. This unusual property of DRibbles was related to the selective recruitment of defective ribosomal products (DRiPs) and other short-lived proteins (SLiPs) into autophagosomes via sequestosome (SQSTM1, p62) mediated association of ubiquitinated SLiPs to the autophagy gene product LC3. Here, we extend our observations to mammary carcinomas from mice of different genetic background. We demonstrated that combined of intranodal administration of autologous or allogeneic DRibbles together with anti-OX40 antibody led to robust proliferation, expansion, and differentiation of memory and effector T cells. We also showed that SLiPs is an excellent source of antigen for cross-priming of CD8+ T-cells that recognize shared tumor antigens in the context of host MHC class I molecules. Thus, our results provide a strong basis for novel clinical trials that combine allogeneic “off-the-shelf” DRibble vaccines together with antibodies against co-stimulatory molecules.
A novel process of viral vector barcoding and library preparation enables high-diversity library generation and recombination-free paired-end sequencing
Authors: Davidsson Marcus , Diaz-Fernandez Paula , Schwich Oliver D. , Torroba Marcos , Wang Gang , Björklund Tomas
Published: November 2016

Detailed characterization and mapping of oligonucleotide function in vivo is generally a very time consuming effort that only allows for hypothesis driven subsampling of the full sequence to be analysed. Recent advances in deep sequencing together with highly efficient parallel oligonucleotide synthesis and cloning techniques have, however, opened up for entirely new ways to map genetic function in vivo. Here we present a novel, optimized protocol for the generation of universally applicable, barcode labelled, plasmid libraries. The libraries are designed to enable the production of viral vector preparations assessing coding or non-coding RNA function in vivo. When generating high diversity libraries, it is a challenge to achieve efficient cloning, unambiguous barcoding and detailed characterization using low-cost sequencing technologies. With the presented protocol, diversity of above 3 million uniquely barcoded adeno-associated viral (AAV) plasmids can be achieved in a single reaction through a process achievable in any molecular biology laboratory. This approach opens up for a multitude of in vivo assessments from the evaluation of enhancer and promoter regions to the optimization of genome editing. The generated plasmid libraries are also useful for validation of sequencing clustering algorithms and we here validate the newly presented message passing clustering process named Starcode.
A Rapid Response Thin-Film Plasmonic-Thermoelectric Light Detector
Authors: Pan Ying , Tagliabue Giulia , Eghlidi Hadi , Höller Christian , Dröscher Susanne , Hong Guo , Poulikakos Dimos
Published: November 2016

Light detection and quantification is fundamental to the functioning of a broad palette of technologies. While expensive avalanche photodiodes and superconducting bolometers are examples of detectors achieving single-photon sensitivity and time resolutions down to the picosecond range, thermoelectric-based photodetectors are much more affordable alternatives that can be used to measure substantially higher levels of light power (few kW/cm2). However, in thermoelectric detectors, achieving broadband or wavelength-selective performance with high sensitivity and good temporal resolution requires careful design of the absorbing element. Here, combining the high absorptivity and low heat capacity of a nanoengineered plasmonic thin-film absorber with the robustness and linear response of a thermoelectric sensor, we present a hybrid detector for visible and near-infrared light achieving response times of the order of 100 milliseconds, almost four times shorter than the same thermoelectric device covered with a conventional absorber. Furthermore, we show an almost two times higher light-to-electricity efficiency upon replacing the conventional absorber with a plasmonic absorber. With these improvements, which are direct results of the efficiency and ultra-small thickness of the plasmonic absorber, this hybrid detector constitutes an ideal component for various medium-intensity light sensing applications requiring spectrally tailored absorption coatings with either broadband or narrowband characteristics.
Cas9-catalyzed DNA Cleavage Generates Staggered Ends: Evidence from Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Zuo Zhicheng , Liu Jin
Published: November 2016

The CRISPR-associated endonuclease Cas9 from Streptococcus pyogenes (spCas9) along with a single guide RNA (sgRNA) has emerged as a versatile toolbox for genome editing. Despite recent advances in the mechanism studies on spCas9-sgRNA-mediated double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) recognition and cleavage, it is still unclear how the catalytic Mg2+ ions induce the conformation changes toward the catalytic active state. It also remains controversial whether Cas9 generates blunt-ended or staggered-ended breaks with overhangs in the DNA. To investigate these issues, here we performed the first all-atom molecular dynamics simulations of the spCas9-sgRNA-dsDNA system with and without Mg2+ bound. The simulation results showed that binding of two Mg2+ ions at the RuvC domain active site could lead to structurally and energetically favorable coordination ready for the non-target DNA strand cleavage. Importantly, we demonstrated with our simulations that Cas9-catalyzed DNA cleavage produces 1-bp staggered ends rather than generally assumed blunt ends.
Cordyceps collected from Bhutan, an appropriate alternative of Cordyceps sinensis
Authors: Wu Ding-Tao , Lv Guang-Ping , Zheng Jian , Li Qian , Ma Shuang-Cheng , Li Shao-Ping , Zhao Jing
Published: November 2016

NaturalCordycepscollected in Bhutan has been widely used as naturalCordyceps sinensis, an official species of Cordyceps used as Chinese medicines, around the world in recent years. However, whether Cordyceps from Bhutan could be really used as naturalC. sinensisremains unknown. Therefore, DNA sequence, bioactive components including nucleosides and polysaccharides in twelve batches of Cordyceps from Bhutan were firstly investigated, and compared with naturalC. sinensis. Results showed that the fungus of Cordyceps from Bhutan wasC. sinensisand the host insect belonged toHepialidaesp. In addition, nucleosides and their bases such as guanine, guanosine, hypoxanthine, uridine, inosine, thymidine, adenine, and adenosine, as well as compositional monosaccharides, partial acid or enzymatic hydrolysates, molecular weights and contents of polysaccharides in Cordyceps from Bhutan were all similar to those of naturalC. sinensis. All data suggest that Cordyceps from Bhutan is a rational alternative of naturalC. sinensis, which is beneficial for the improvement of their performance in health and medicinal food areas.
Silicon deposition in nanopores using a liquid precursor
Authors: Masuda Takashi , Tatsuda Narihito , Yano Kazuhisa , Shimoda Tatsuya
Published: November 2016

Techniques for depositing silicon into nanosized spaces are vital for the further scaling down of next-generation devices in the semiconductor industry. In this study, we filled silicon into 3.5-nm-diameter nanopores with an aspect ratio of 70 by exploiting thermodynamic behaviour based on the van der Waals energy of vaporized cyclopentasilane (CPS). We originally synthesized CPS as a liquid precursor for semiconducting silicon. Here we used CPS as a gas source in thermal chemical vapour deposition under atmospheric pressure because vaporized CPS can fill nanopores spontaneously. Our estimation of the free energy of CPS based on Lifshitz van der Waals theory clarified the filling mechanism, where CPS vapour in the nanopores readily undergoes capillary condensation because of its large molar volume compared to those of other vapours such as water, toluene, silane, and disilane. Consequently, a liquid-specific feature was observed during the deposition process; specifically, condensed CPS penetrated into the nanopores spontaneously via capillary force. The CPS that filled the nanopores was then transformed into solid silicon by thermal decomposition at 400 °C. The developed method is expected to be used as a nanoscale silicon filling technology, which is critical for the fabrication of future quantum scale silicon devices.
Local expectation violations result in global activity gain in primary visual cortex
Authors: Kok Peter , van Lieshout Lieke L.F. , de Lange Floris P.
Published: November 2016

During natural perception, we often form expectations about upcoming input. These expectations are usually multifaceted – we expect a particular object at a particular location. However, expectations about spatial location and stimulus features have mostly been studied in isolation, and it is unclear whether feature-based expectation can be spatially specific. Interestingly, feature-based attention automatically spreads to unattended locations. It is still an open question whether the neural mechanisms underlying feature-based expectation differ from those underlying feature-based attention. Therefore, establishing whether the effects of feature-based expectation are spatially specific may inform this debate. Here, we investigated this by inducing expectations of a specific stimulus feature at a specific location, and probing the effects on sensory processing across the visual field using fMRI. We found an enhanced sensory response for unexpected stimuli, which was elicited only when there was a violation of expectation at the specific location where participants formed a stimulus expectation. The neural consequences of this expectation violation, however, spread to cortical locations processing the stimulus in the opposite hemifield. This suggests that an expectation violation at one location in the visual world can lead to a spatially non-specific gain increase across the visual field.
Combined administration of anisodamine and neostigmine rescued acute lethal crush syndrome through α7nAChR-dependent JAK2-STAT3 signaling
Authors: Xu Zhe-Qi , Shao Bo-Zong , Ke Ping , Liu Jian-Guo , Liu Guo-Ku , Chen Xiong-Wen , Su Ding-Feng , Liu Chong
Published: November 2016

Previously we showed that Ani (anisodamine)/Neo (neostigmine) combination produced anti-shock effect via activating α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR). In this study, we aim to investigate the therapeutic effect and underlying mechanisms of Ani/Neo combination in acute lethal crush syndrome (CS). In rat and rabbit CS models, Ani/Neo combination increased the 24 h survival rates, improved hemodynamics and decreased the levels of creatine kinase, MB isoenzyme of creatine kinase, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, K+ in serum. It also decreased the levels of H2O2, myeloperoxidase (MPO) and nitric oxide (NO) in serum and compressed muscle in rat CS model. In wild-type (WT) mice with CS, Ani/Neo combination increased 24 h survival rate and decreased the levels of H2O2, MPO, NO, TNFα, IL-6 and IL-10 in compressed muscle. These effects were attenuated by α7nAChR knockout (KO). Moreover, Ani/Neo combination prevented the decrease of phosphorylation of Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) and phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) induced by CS. These effects of Ani/Neo in CS mice were cancelled by methyllycaconitine (α7nAChR antagonist) and α7nAChR KO. Collectively, our results demonstrate that Ani/Neo combination could produce therapeutic effects in CS. The underlying mechanism involves the activation of α7nAChR-dependent JAK2-STAT3 signaling pathway.
Silymarin attenuates cigarette smoke extract-induced inflammation via simultaneous inhibition of autophagy and ERK/p38 MAPK pathway in human bronchial epithelial cells
Authors: Li Diandian , Hu Jun , Wang Tao , Zhang Xue , Liu Lian , Wang Hao , Wu Yanqiu , Xu Dan , Wen Fuqiang
Published: November 2016

Cigarette smoke (CS) is a major risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), contributing to airway inflammation. Our previous study revealed that silymarin had an anti-inflammatory effect in CS-exposed mice. In this study, we attempt to further elucidate the molecular mechanisms of silymarin in CS extract (CSE)-induced inflammation using human bronchial epithelial cells. Silymarin significantly suppressed autophagy activation and the activity of ERK/p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway in Beas-2B cells. We also observed that inhibiting the activity of ERK with specific inhibitor U0126 led to reduced autophagic level, while knockdown of autophagic gene Beclin-1 and Atg5 decreased the levels of ERK and p38 phosphorylation. Moreover, silymarin attenuated CSE-induced upregulation of inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-8 which could also be dampened by ERK/p38 MAPK inhibitors and siRNAs for Beclin-1 and Atg5. Finally, we validated decreased levels of both autophagy and inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and KC) in CS-exposed mice after silymarin treatment. The present research has demonstrated that CSE-induced autophagy in bronchial epithelia, in synergism with ERK MAPK pathway, may initiate and exaggerate airway inflammation. Silymarin could attenuate inflammatory responses through intervening in the crosstalk between autophagy and ERK MAPK pathway, and might be an ideal agent treating inflammatory pulmonary diseases.
A label-free SERRS-based nanosensor for ultrasensitive detection of mercury ions in drinking water and wastewater effluent
Authors: Song Dan , Yang Rong , Wang Haoyu , Li Wei , Wang Hongchen , Long Hui , Long Feng
Published: November 2016

Precisely probing mercury ions (Hg2+) is of essential importance to human health and environmental protection.
Trapping of gaseous pollutants on defective N-doped graphene
Authors: Ghosh Dibyajyoti , Pati Swapan K.
Published: November 2016

Nitrogen-doped defective graphene is an efficient adsorbent to selectively trap poisonous and green-house gases by forming H-bonds.
Reversible ultrafast spin switching on Ni@B80endohedral fullerene
Authors: Li Chun , Liu Jing , Lefkidis Georgios , Hübner Wolfgang
Published: November 2016

We demonstrate ultrafast (∼100 fs) and reversible spin switching on the endohedral fullerene Ni@B80viaΛ processes.
Study of the interplay between N-graphene defects and small Pd clusters for enhanced hydrogen storage via a spill-over mechanism
Authors: Rangel E. , Sansores E. , Vallejo E. , Hernández-Hernández A. , López-Pérez P. A.
Published: November 2016

The hydrogen spill-over mechanism was studied by applying Density Functional Theory.
Three dimensional MOF–sponge for fast dynamic adsorption
Authors: Li Huizeng , Li Mingzhu , Li Wenbo , Yang Qiang , Li Yanan , Gu Zhenkun , Song Yanlin
Published: November 2016

Three-dimensional MOF–sponge with good permeability and high adsorption capacity was designed to dynamically purify toxic gases and effluents.
Highly crystalline low-bandgap polymer nanowires towards high-performance thick-film organic solar cells exceeding 10% power conversion efficiency
Authors: Lee Jaewon , Sin Dong Hun , Moon Byungho , Shin Jisoo , Kim Heung Gyu , Kim Min , Cho Kilwon
Published: November 2016

One-dimensional low bandgap polymer nanowires successfully incorporated into bulk-heterojunction organic solar cells, yielding a high PCE exceeding 10% with thick films.
Ferrate(vi) initiated oxidative degradation mechanisms clarified by DFT calculations: a case for sulfamethoxazole
Authors: Yu Hang , Chen Jingwen , Xie Hongbin , Ge Pu , Kong Qingwei , Luo Yi
Published: November 2016

Ferrate(vi) is an efficient and environmentally friendly oxidant for the degradation of organic micropollutants.
A composite cathode membrane with CoFe2O4–rGO/PVDF on carbon fiber cloth: synthesis and performance in a photocatalysis-assisted MFC-MBR system
Authors: Li Yihua , Sun Jiaqi , Liu Lifen , Yang Fenglin
Published: November 2016

In this study, a photocatalytic composite membrane (PCM) coated with CoFe2O4(–rGO) and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) on a carbon fiber cloth was firstly prepared by inclusion of nanoparticles in a PVDF casting solution.
Nanostructured ZnFeZr oxyhydroxide precipitate as efficient phosphate adsorber in waste water: understanding the role of different material-building-blocks
Authors: Schneider Michael , Drenkova-Tuhtan Asya , Szczerba Wojciech , Gellermann Carsten , Meyer Carsten , Steinmetz Heidrun , Mandel Karl , Sextl Gerhard
Published: November 2016

We present investigations on the working principle of a new adsorber for the recycling of phosphate from waste water.
Mining valuable minerals from seawater: a critical review
Authors: Loganathan Paripurnanda , Naidu Gayathri , Vigneswaran Saravanamuthu
Published: November 2016

Methods of extracting valuable minerals from seawater and seawater brines generated in desalination plants are critically reviewed in this paper.
Lubrication of chocolate during oral processing
Authors: Rodrigues S. A. , Selway N. , Morgenstern M. P. , Motoi L. , Stokes J. R. , James B. J.
Published: November 2016

Oral processing transforms the structure of dark chocolate from a fat-continuous suspension to a saliva-continuous emulsion, which results in lower viscosities, thinner films and reduced friction.
Effects of liquid oil vs. oleogel co-ingested with a carbohydrate-rich meal on human blood triglycerides, glucose, insulin and appetite
Authors: Tan Sze-Yen , Wan-Yi Peh Elaine , Marangoni Alejandro G. , Henry Christiani Jeyakumar
Published: November 2016

We examine the difference in how coconut oil in a liquid or oleogel form affects blood triglycerides, glucose, insulin, and appetite when co-ingested with a carbohydrate-rich meal.
Small structural changes of the imidazopyridine diacylglycerol acyltransferase 2 (DGAT2) inhibitors produce an improved safety profile
Authors: Futatsugi K. , Huard K. , Kung D. W. , Pettersen J. C. , Flynn D. A. , Gosset J. R. , Aspnes G. E. , Barnes R. J. , Cabral S. , Dowling M. S. , Fernando D. P. , Goosen T. C. , Gorczyca W. P. , Hepworth D. , Herr M. , Lavergne S. , Li Q. , Niosi M. , Orr S. T. M. , Pardo I. D. , Perez S. M. , Purkal J. , Schmahai T. J. , Shirai N. , Shoieb A. M. , Zhou J. , Goodwin B.
Published: November 2016

Preclinical pharmacokinetic, efficacy, and toxicology results are reported for a series of DGAT2 inhibitors for the potential treatment of hypertriglyceridemia.
Metal–organic frameworks: a novel host platform for enzymatic catalysis and detection
Authors: Gkaniatsou Effrosyni , Sicard Clémence , Ricoux Rémy , Mahy Jean-Pierre , Steunou Nathalie , Serre Christian
Published: November 2016

This minireview deals with the recent advances on the synthetic strategies for the immobilization of enzymes in metal–organic frameworks.
Use of apomyoglobin to gently remove heme from a H2O2-dependent cytochrome P450 and allow its reconstitution
Authors: Chien Shih-Cheng , Shoji Osami , Morimoto Yoshiko , Watanabe Yoshihito
Published: November 2016

Apo-P450 can be prepared under mild conditions using apo-myoglobin as a heme scavenger and it can be reconstituted with hemin or manganese protoporphyrin IX.
A photocleavable stabilizer for the preparation of PHEMA nanogels by dispersion polymerization in supercritical carbon dioxide
Authors: Alaimo David , Grignard Bruno , Kuppan Chandrasekar , Adriaensen Yasmine , Genet Michel J. , Dupont-Gillain Christine , Gohy Jean-François , Fustin Charles-André , Detrembleur Christophe , Jérôme Christine
Published: November 2016

Synthesis of PHEMA nanogels stable in water by a scCO2 process.
Influence of electrode types on the electrohydrodynamic instability patterning process: a comparative study
Authors: Liu Minzhe , Li Hefu , Yu Weixing , Wang Taisheng , Liu Zhenyu , Desmulliez Marc. P. Y.
Published: November 2016

A polymer film resting on a planar substrate under the influence of a electric field. (A) A conductive patterned electrode. (B) A conductive pattern on a dielectric substrate.
First-principles calculations of structural, electronic, and thermodynamic properties of monolayer Si1−xGexC sheet
Authors: Xu Zhuo , Li Yangping , Liu Zhengtang
Published: November 2016

The bowing coefficient of structural parameters is calculated. A band gap transition is also observed. The T–x phase diagram is calculated and shows a critical temperature of 187.4 K.
Engineering design of a biofilm formed on a pH-sensitive ZnO/PSf nanocomposite membrane with antibacterial properties
Authors: Javdaneh Shima , Mehrnia Mohammad Reza , Homayoonfal Maryam
Published: November 2016

The interaction between the membrane and BSA at different pHs influences the biofilm formed on the membrane after which other filtration steps are performed in the presence of the engineered and pH sensitive membrane.
The effects of nonmetal dopants on the electronic, optical, and catalytic performances of monolayer WSe2 by a first-principles study
Authors: Lu S. , Li C. , Zhao Y. F. , Li H. H. , Gong Y. Y. , Niu L. Y. , Liu X. J. , Wang T.
Published: November 2016

Doping modifies the electronic, optical, and catalytic behavior of materials through the newly formed chemical bonds and the localized electrons.
Microfiltration process for surface water treatment: irreversible fouling identification and chemical cleaning
Authors: Liu Junxia , Dong Bingzhi , Cao Bangqing , Zhao Dongsheng , Wang Zhihong
Published: November 2016

Irreversible fouling before (left) and after (right) chemical cleaning.
Dual-functionalisation of gelatine nanoparticles with an anticancer platinum(ii)–bisphosphonate complex and mineral-binding alendronate
Authors: Farbod Kambiz , Curci Alessandra , Diba Mani , Zinkevich Tatiana , Kentgens Arno P. M. , Iafisco Michele , Margiotta Nicola , Leeuwenburgh Sander C. G.
Published: November 2016

Mineral-binding gelatine nanoparticles can be loaded with tailored amounts of anticancer molecules, which may benefit the development of bone-seeking carriers for targeted delivery of drugs to treat bone tumours.
Trapping and isolation of single prokaryotic cells in a micro-chamber array using dielectrophoresis
Authors: Mogi K. , Shirataki C. , Kihara K. , Kuwahara H. , Hongoh Y. , Yamamoto T.
Published: November 2016

The vast majority of prokaryotic species are difficult or impossible to culture in laboratories, which makes it difficult to study these organisms using conventional biochemical techniques.
Holographic direct pulsed laser writing of two-dimensional nanostructures
Authors: AlQattan Bader , Butt Haider , Sabouri Aydin , Yetisen Ali K. , Ahmed Rajib , Mahmoodi Nasim
Published: November 2016

The development of accurate and rapid techniques to produce nanophotonic structures is essential in data storage, sensors, and spectroscopy.
Performance evaluation of triethanolamine as corrosion inhibitor for magnesium alloy in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution
Authors: Shang Wei , He Chubin , Wen Yuqing , Wang Yuanyuan , Zhang Zhe
Published: November 2016

The anti-corrosion performance of triethanolamine with Mg alloy in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution has been studied by immersion experiment, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, potentiodynamic polarization, surface analysis, and quantum chemical methods.
Synthesis of nanohybrid alcogels of SiO2 and Ni–Cr/Mg–Cr–LDH: study of their rheological and dip coating properties
Authors: Saikia Pinky , Gautam Arvind , Goswamee R. L.
Published: November 2016

Silica supported Ni–Cr and Mg–Cr–LDH nanohybrid alcogels were synthesized by a ‘soft chemical’ non-aqueous sol–gel route using a mixture of metal acetylacetonate and tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS) precursors.
Domino Michael-aldol annulations for the stereocontrolled synthesis of bicyclo[3.3.1]nonane and bicyclo[3.2.1]octane derivatives
Authors: Promontorio Rossella , Richard Jean-Alexandre , Marson Charles M.
Published: November 2016

One-pot synthesis of bicyclo compounds from cycloalkane-1,3-diones and enals.
Tripeptide consisting of benzyl protected di-cysteine and phenylalanine forms spherical assembly and induces cytotoxicity in cancer cells via apoptosis
Authors: Banerji Biswadip , Chatterjee Moumita , Prodhan Chandraday , Chaudhuri Keya
Published: November 2016

Tripeptide self assemblies in cell growth medium induce apoptosis and promoting cancer cell death at submicromolar concentration.
Fe3O4@PEG-SO3H rod-like morphology along with the spherical nanoparticles: novel green nanocomposite design, preparation, characterization and catalytic application
Authors: Maleki Ali , Zand Pedram , Mohseni Zahra
Published: November 2016

A new heterogeneous nanocatalyst was successfully synthesized, completely characterized and efficiently applied in the synthesis of dihydropyrimidines.
Low molecular weight chitosan–protamine conjugate for siRNA delivery with enhanced stability and transfection efficiency
Authors: Patil Sushilkumar , Bhatt Priyanka , Lalani Rohan , Amrutiya Jitendra , Vhora Imran , Kolte Atul , Misra Ambikanandan
Published: November 2016

Chitosan is among the few polymers with high biocompatibility and low cytotoxicity.
Single-stage PN/A technology treating saline ammonia-rich wastewater: finding the balance between efficient performance and less N2O and NO emissions
Authors: Yan Yuan , Wang Yayi , Chen Yu , Lin Ximao , Wu Min , Chen Jie
Published: November 2016

N2O emission from a one-stage PN/A process was studied for the first time with elevated salinity.
Chemometrics strategy coupled with high resolution mass spectrometry for analyzing and interpreting comprehensive metabolomic characterization of hyperlipemia
Authors: Zhao Qiqi , Zhang Aihua , Zong Wenjing , An Na , Zhang Huamin , Luan Yihan , Cao Hongxin , Sun Hui , Wang Xijun
Published: November 2016

Hyperlipidemia (HLP) is a metabolic disorder which is characterized by a disturbance in lipid metabolism and is a primary risk factor for cardiovascular disease and atherosclerosis.
Unequivocal evidence of enhanced magnetodielectric coupling in Gd3+substituted multiferroic Bi2Fe4O9
Authors: Mohapatra S. R. , Swain A. , Yadav C. S. , Kaushik S. D. , Singh A. K.
Published: November 2016

We report an enhanced magnetodielectric (MD) coupling in antiferromagnetic Bi2Fe4O9(BFO) lightly substituted by gadolinium (Gd3+).
Macrocyclic shape-persistency of cyclo[6]aramide results in enhanced multipoint recognition for the highly efficient template-directed synthesis of rotaxanes
Authors: Li Xiaowei , Yuan Xiangyang , Deng Pengchi , Chen Lixi , Ren Yi , Wang Chengyuan , Wu Lixin , Feng Wen , Gong Bing , Yuan Lihua
Published: November 2016

The importance of macrocyclic shape-persistency in novel host–guest systems for the highly efficient template-directed synthesis of rotaxanes has been revealed.
Plasma-enhanced atomic layer deposition of titanium phosphate as an electrode for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Dobbelaere Thomas , Mattelaer Felix , Roy Amit Kumar , Vereecken Philippe , Detavernier Christophe
Published: November 2016

The as-deposited PE-ALD titanium phosphate was electrochemically active, showing insertion/extraction of lithium ions around a potential of 2.7 V vs. Li/Li+.
Activity of pure and transition metal-modified CoOOH for the oxygen evolution reaction in an alkaline medium
Authors: Chen Zhu , Kronawitter Coleman X. , Yeh Yao-Wen , Yang Xiaofang , Zhao Peng , Yao Nan , Koel Bruce E.
Published: November 2016

Cobalt oxyhydroxide nanowires show excellent oxygen evolution activity, which is further enhanced by nickel incorporation. Effects of nickel and manganese incorporation on the catalytic activities are explained in term of surface species stabilities.
Hierarchical NiCo2O4 nanosheets/nitrogen doped graphene/carbon nanotube film with ultrahigh capacitance and long cycle stability as a flexible binder-free electrode for supercapacitors
Authors: Yue Shihong , Tong Hao , Lu Liang , Tang Weiwei , Bai Wenlong , Jin Fengqiao , Han Qiwei , He Jianping , Liu Jie , Zhang Xiaogang
Published: November 2016

Developing flexible and lightweight energy storage systems for miniaturized electronic equipment and high volumetric performance is arousing increasing interest.
l-Glutamic acid derived PtPd@Pt core/satellite nanoassemblies as an effectively cathodic electrocatalyst
Authors: Chen Yifan , Fu Gengtao , Li Yueyang , Gu Quanshu , Xu Lin , Sun Dongmei , Tang Yawen
Published: November 2016

PtPd@Pt core/satellite nanoassemblies are fabricated via a novel l-glutamic acid derived method, exhibiting excellent catalytic activity and stability towards ORR.
Using a biocompatible diazidecrosslinker to fabricate a robust polyelectrolyte multilayer film with enhanced effects on cell proliferation
Authors: Wang Yue , You Wenjun , Song Yifan , Li Xiangxin , Qiu Dengli , Cheng Mengjiao , Shi Feng
Published: November 2016

We have proposed a biocompatible diazidecrosslinker with positive effects on cell proliferation based on a facile and versatile crosslinking strategy.
The atomic structures and electronic properties of potassium-doped phenanthrene from a first-principles study
Authors: Yan Xun-Wang , Zhang Chunfang , Zhong Guohua , Ma Dongwei , Gao Miao
Published: November 2016

A K2-A phase for potassium-doped phenanthrene: the most stable structure and optimum dopant concentration.
Reflective perovskite solar cells for efficient tandem applications
Authors: Li Yan , Hu Hongwei , Chen Bingbing , Salim Teddy , Zhang Jing , Ding Jianning , Yuan Ningyi , Lam Yeng Ming
Published: November 2016

Tandem solar cells combining a wide bandgap, efficient perovskite absorber with a low bandgap photovoltaic module, such as a c-Si cell, can potentially achieve a high theoretical efficiency of over 30%.
A covalently cross-linked reduced functionalized graphene oxide/polyurethane composite based on Diels–Alder chemistry and its potential application in healable flexible electronics
Authors: Li Jinhui , Zhang Guoping , Sun Rong , Wong Ching-Ping
Published: November 2016

A novel composite of reduced functionalized graphene oxide/polyurethane based on Diels–Alder chemistry was developed which could be healed microwaves with high efficiency and applied in healable flexible electronics.
Functional consequences of B-repeat sequence variation in the staphylococcal biofilm protein Aap: deciphering the assembly code
Authors: Shelton Catherine L. , Conrady Deborah G. , Herr Andrew B.
Published: November 2016

Staphylococcus epidermidis is an opportunistic pathogen that can form robust biofilms that render the bacteria resistant to antibiotic action and immune responses. Intercellular adhesion in S. epidermidis biofilms is mediated by the cell wall-associated accumulation-associated protein (Aap), via zinc-mediated self-assembly of its B-repeat region. This region contains up to 17 nearly identical sequence repeats, with each repeat assumed to be functionally equivalent. However, Aap B-repeats exist as two subtypes, defined by a cluster of consensus or variant amino acids. These variable residues are positioned near the zinc-binding (and dimerization) site and the stability determinant for the B-repeat fold. We have characterized four B-repeat constructs to assess the functional relevance of the two Aap B-repeat subtypes. Analytical ultracentrifugation experiments demonstrated that constructs with the variant sequence show reduced or absent Zn2+-induced dimerization. Likewise, circular dichroism thermal denaturation experiments showed that the variant sequence could significantly stabilize the fold, depending on its location within the construct. Crystal structures of three of the constructs revealed that the side chains from the variant sequence form an extensive bonding network that can stabilize the fold. Furthermore, altered distribution of charged residues between consensus and variant sequences changes the electrostatic potential in the vicinity of the Zn2+-binding site, providing a mechanistic explanation for the loss of zinc-induced dimerization in the variant constructs. These data suggest an assembly code that defines preferred oligomerization modes of the B-repeat region of Aap and a slip-grip model for initial contact followed by firm intercellular adhesion during biofilm formation.
Hammerstein system identification with quantised inputs and quantised output observations
Authors: Guo Jin , Liu Haitao
Published: November 2016

This study focuses on a discrete‐time Hammerstein system to investigate the identification with quantised inputs and quantised output observations. After the discussion of the system identifiability and by parameterising the static non‐linear function, a three‐step algorithm is proposed to estimate the unknown parameters for the identifiable system. The strong convergence and the mean‐square convergence rate of the algorithm are established. It is shown that the asymptotic efficiency can be achieved in terms of the Cramér–Rao lower bound by selecting a suitable transformation matrix. A numerical simulation is given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the algorithm.
Spider monkey optimisation assisted particle filter for robust object tracking
Authors: Rohilla Rajesh , Sikri Vanshaj , Kapoor Rajiv
Published: November 2016

Particle filters (PFs) are sequential Monte Carlo methods that use particle representation of state‐space model to implement the recursive Bayesian filter for non‐linear and non‐Gaussian systems. Owing to this property, PFs have been extensively used for object tracking in recent years. Although PFs provide a robust object tracking framework, they suffer from shortcomings. Particle degeneracy and particle impoverishment brought by the resampling step result in abysmal construction of posterior probability density function (PDF) of the state. To overcome these problems, this work amalgamates two characteristics of population‐based heuristic optimisation algorithms: exploration and exploitation with PF implementing dynamic resampling method. The aim of optimisation is to distribute particles in high‐likelihood area according to the cognitive effect and improve quality of particles, while the objective of dynamic resampling is to maintain diversity in the particle set. This work uses very efficient spider monkey optimisation to achieve this. Furthermore, to test the efficiency of the proposed algorithm, experiments were carried out on one‐dimensional state estimation problem, bearing only tracking problem, standard videos and synthesised videos. Metrics obtained show that the proposed algorithm outplays simple PF, particle swarm optimisation based PF, and cuckoo search based PF, and effectively handles different challenges inherent in object tracking.
Automated marker identification using the Radon transform for watershed segmentation
Authors: González‐Betancourt Aniel , Rodríguez‐Ribalta Patricia , Meneses‐Marcel Alfredo , Sifontes‐Rodríguez Sergio , Lorenzo‐Ginori Juan Valentín , Orozco‐Morales Rubén
Published: November 2016

The automated identification of markers in medical imaging is one of the issues proposed in recent years for many tasks with wide application in digital image analysis, but there is no universal algorithm for this. We introduce here a low computational cost system based on the Radon transform (RT) to determine markers for watershed segmentation purposes in nearly circular structures of grey‐scale images such as the red blood cells in images obtained by optical light microscopy of blood smears. The search for markers is performed based on the ability of the RT to detect shape parameters and characterise their behaviour in circular structures. The circular structure edge was determined previously in order to apply the direct RT and after that the sinogram projections were filtered utilising a matched filter. Then, an image with peaks close to the circular structures' centres is obtained by means of the reverse RT. After this, a threshold is calculated and applied in order to identify the markers. The reached precision was 97.4%, which is comparable with results within the state of the art, and the F‐measure was 0.925.
Analysis, control and design of speed control of electric vehicles delayed model: multi‐objective fuzzy fractional‐order controller
Authors: Khooban Mohammad Hassan , ShaSadeghi Mokhtar , Niknam Taher , Blaabjerg Frede
Published: November 2016

The purpose of this study is to suggest an optimal multi‐objective fuzzy fractional‐order controller (MOFFOPID) for the speed control of EV systems with time‐delay. It is presumed that while the EV is in movement, the armature winding resistance of the direct current (DC) motor varies with time due to temperature changes and this makes it impossible to develop an accurate dynamic model for an EV system. Consequently, in order to have a fast and accurate tracking of the set‐point, besides a smooth control signal, a new multi‐objective stochastic optimisation is used for the online adjustment of the parameters of MOFFOPID controller. Moreover, a comparison is made between the results of the current study and those of some of the most recent studies on the same topic, which have used online multi‐objective PI and online multi‐objective fuzzy PI, to assess the efficiency of the suggested controller. Finally, the experimental results based on a TMS320F28335 DSP are implemented on a DC motor to verify the effectiveness of the proposed MOFFOPID controller in controlling the speed of the DC motor which has non‐linear features. The results of the simulation confirm the desirable performance of suggested controller.
Dynamic behavior and stability of two-dimensional dust clusters in power law traps
Authors: Bessaa Assia , Djebli Mourad
Published: November 2016

Fundamental properties of finite two-dimensional (2D) Yukawa dust clusters, subjected to power law confining potentials, are studied using Monte Carlo simulations. We show the effects of the interplay between the Yukawa screening and the functional form of the confining potential on the structure, dynamics, and melting of few particle systems. We find numerically that one of the fundamental eigenmodes, namely, a center of mass mode, still exists for a confinement with n = 3. The stability of such clusters is discussed using the variance of the block averaged interparticle distance fluctuations (VIDF). The melting temperatures are found to depend crucially on screening length and confinement power. For the estimation of the melting temperature, the VIDF quantity is believed to be reliable only for well-packed structures, where the relative interparticle distance fluctuations (IDF) disregard the melting transition point.
On the cooperativity of association and reference energy scales in thermodynamic perturbation theory
Authors: Marshall Bennett D.
Published: November 2016

Equations of state for hydrogen bonding fluids are typically described by two energy scales. A short range highly directional hydrogen bonding energy scale as well as a reference energy scale which accounts for dispersion and orientationally averaged multi-pole attractions. These energy scales are always treated independently. In recent years, extensive first principles quantum mechanics calculations on small water clusters have shown that both hydrogen bond and reference energy scales depend on the number of incident hydrogen bonds of the water molecule. In this work, we propose a new methodology to couple the reference energy scale to the degree of hydrogen bonding in the fluid. We demonstrate the utility of the new approach by showing that it gives improved predictions of water-hydrocarbon mutual solubilities.
A simulation exploration on the grounding characteristic of monopile foundation offshore wind turbines
Authors: Tao Shiqi , Zhang Xiaoqing , Huang Kejie
Published: November 2016

An exploration on the grounding characteristic of monopile foundation offshore wind turbines (WTs) is carried out in this paper by using the Grounding System Safe Analysis Software (GSSAS). A basic description is given for the structural feature of the monopile foundation. The discretization model is built for the monopile foundation by subdividing its continuous shell body into a discrete multiconductor system. The simulation computation is performed for analyzing the actual factors influencing the grounding resistance, including the seawater depth, thickness of clay layer, and resistivity of gravel layer. It is found from the simulation computation that the grounding resistance is mainly influenced by the seawater depth. Then, the result obtained from the software GSSAS is also compared with that from the software current distribution, electromagnetic fields, grounding and soil structure analysis for checking the validity of the GSSAS simulation in the exploration of grounding characteristic of offshore WTs.
Transient characterization of extreme field conduction in dielectrics
Authors: Li Zongze , Xu Chunchuan , Uehara Hiroaki , Boggs Steven , Cao Yang
Published: November 2016

High field degradation and electric breakdown of dielectrics are extremely complex phenomena as a result of the interplay among the electric field, temperature, material morphology, and extrinsic material properties. Fundamental understanding of carrier mobility related prebreakdown phenomena in dielectrics provides insights into high field transport phenomena as well as associated aging and onset of charge injection induced instability. Investigation of such extreme field conduction has been traditionally limited to the divergent field distribution generated using point-plane electrode configuration, as testing of parallel plate sample configuration under quasi steady-state conditions can only reach around two thirds of the breakdown field as a result of rapid high field aging. A circuit has been developed for transient characterization of conduction through a planar dielectric film during a linear ramp voltage to breakdown via the cancellation of displacement current to facilitate the measurement of small resistive currents down to 10ppm level. The dynamic cancellation of displacement current during an applied voltage waveform is realized through the use of a high frequency sinusoidal “bias” voltage to generate a capacitive current that can be cancelled using a feedback circuit based on a voltage-controlled amplifier with negligible phase shift and a dual-phase digital lock-in amplifier. Such capability of transient characterization of conduction in dielectrics will provide insights into dielectric aging and breakdown mechanism and form a quantitative basis for the extraction of critical transport parameters for conduction under extreme electric fields.