bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Directions for Pediatric Psychology: Making It Work in the New Millennium
Authors: Jelalian Elissa
Published: December 2015

Historically, a generation of pediatric psychologists was trained and expected to function effectively in the roles of clinician, researcher, and mentor. There have been significant changes in the delivery of health care and in the competition for grant funding that have made it challenging to function at the highest level in each of these domains. The metaphor of the “triple threat” needs to be reexamined in the context of these changing demands. Further, there are potential directions in the area of clinical program development, including focus on health promotion and integrated primary care, and in the area of research, which may allow us to maintain our leadership role in delivering health care to children. Important directions in both clinical and research arenas are to develop truly integrated teams of care deliverers and scientists and demonstrate both the effectiveness and the cost effectiveness of our interventions. We would be well served by collectively taking on the missions of advancing research, developing effective clinical programs, and providing outstanding mentorship for our students, without relying on a single pediatric psychologist to excel in each of these domains.
Factors Associated With Dropout Versus Completion of a Manualized Treatment for Pediatric Chronic Pain
Authors: Carter Bryan D. , Kronenberger William G. , Cruce-Spurling Sarah , Threlkeld Brooke M. , Brady Christine E. , Jones Lara C. , Mizell Danielle
Published: December 2015

To identify characteristics of pediatric patients who completed participation in a manualized psychosocial treatment (CHIRP: Children’s Health & Illness Recovery Program) for adolescents with chronic pain compared with those who discontinued treatment early. Preintervention demographic characteristics and ratings of pain, fatigue, functional disability, coping style, health beliefs and behaviors, sleep, and parent/teen dynamics were compared between adolescents who either completed (42 total; 39 females, 3 males) or prematurely discontinued (25 total; 19 females, 6 males) a 12-session manualized treatment. Participants who dropped out of treatment were more likely to be male and have a history of repeating a grade in school. Parents of adolescents who dropped out of treatment were more likely to minimize the impact of symptoms on adolescent functioning and reported their teen was less likely to employ active problem-solving coping, have more comorbid medically unexplained conditions, more mood problems, and more sleep difficulties. Adolescents who dropped out of treatment reported being more sensitive or reactive to stress and were more likely to use medications to help them sleep. Certain demographic and individual patient characteristics and family dynamics appear to impact treatment attrition to a manualized cognitive–behavioral and family systems intervention for adolescents with chronic pain. These findings suggest the need for developing strategies for strengthening patient and family commitment to a psychosocial approach to chronic pain coping and recovery.
Basolateral and central amygdala differentially recruit and maintain dorsolateral striatum-dependent cocaine-seeking habits
Authors: Murray Jennifer E. , Belin-Rauscent Aude , Simon Marine , Giuliano Chiara , Benoit-Marand Marianne , Everitt Barry J. , Belin David
Published: December 2015

In the development of addiction, drug seeking becomes habitual and controlled by drug-associated cues, and the neural locus of control over behaviour shifts from the ventral to the dorsolateral striatum. The neural mechanisms underlying this functional transition from recreational drug use to drug-seeking habits are unknown. Here we combined functional disconnections and electrophysiological recordings of the amygdalo-striatal networks in rats trained to seek cocaine to demonstrate that functional shifts within the striatum are driven by transitions from the basolateral (BLA) to the central (CeN) amygdala. Thus, while the recruitment of dorsolateral striatum dopamine-dependent control over cocaine seeking is triggered by the BLA, its long-term maintenance depends instead on the CeN. These data demonstrate that limbic cortical areas both tune the function of cognitive territories of the striatum and thereby underpin maladaptive cocaine-seeking habits.
Flexible thin-film black gold membranes with ultrabroadband plasmonic nanofocusing for efficient solar vapour generation
Authors: Bae Kyuyoung , Kang Gumin , Cho Suehyun K. , Park Wounjhang , Kim Kyoungsik , Padilla Willie J.
Published: December 2015

Solar steam generation has been achieved by surface plasmon heating with metallic nanoshells or nanoparticles, which have inherently narrow absorption bandwidth. For efficient light-to-heat conversion from a wider solar spectrum, we employ adiabatic plasmonic nanofocusing to attain both polarization-independent ultrabroadband light absorption and high plasmon dissipation loss. Here we demonstrate large area, flexible thin-film black gold membranes, which have multiscale structures of varying metallic nanoscale gaps (0–200 nm) as well as microscale funnel structures. The adiabatic nanofocusing of self-aggregated metallic nanowire bundle arrays produces average absorption of 91% at 400–2,500 nm and the microscale funnel structures lead to average reflection of 7% at 2.5–17 μm. This membrane allows heat localization within the few micrometre-thick layer and continuous water provision through micropores. We efficiently generate water vapour with solar thermal conversion efficiency up to 57% at 20 kW m−2. This new structure has a variety of applications in solar energy harvesting, thermoplasmonics and related technologies.
Amygdala lesions in rhesus macaques decrease attention to threat
Authors: Dal Monte Olga , Costa Vincent D. , Noble Pamela L. , Murray Elisabeth A. , Averbeck Bruno B.
Published: December 2015

Evidence from animal and human studies has suggested that the amygdala plays a role in detecting threat and in directing attention to the eyes. Nevertheless, there has been no systematic investigation of whether the amygdala specifically facilitates attention to the eyes or whether other features can also drive attention via amygdala processing. The goal of the present study was to examine the effects of amygdala lesions in rhesus monkeys on attentional capture by specific facial features, as well as gaze patterns and changes in pupil dilation during free viewing. Here we show reduced attentional capture by threat stimuli, specifically the mouth, and reduced exploration of the eyes in free viewing in monkeys with amygdala lesions. Our findings support a role for the amygdala in detecting threat signals and in directing attention to the eye region of faces when freely viewing different expressions.
Electroporation on microchips: the harmful effects of pH changes and scaling down
Authors: Li Yang , Wu Mengxi , Zhao Deyao , Wei Zewen , Zhong Wenfeng , Wang Xiaoxia , Liang Zicai , Li Zhihong
Published: December 2015

Electroporation has been widely used in delivering foreign biomolecules into cells, but there is still much room for improvement, such as cell viability and integrity. In this manuscript, we investigate the distribution and the toxicity of pH changes during electroporation, which significantly decreases cell viability. A localized pH gradient forms between anode and cathode leading to a localized distribution of cell death near the electrodes, especially cathodes. The toxicity of hydroxyl ions is severe and acute due to their effect in the decomposition of phospholipid bilayer membrane. On the other hand, the electric field used for electroporation aggravates the toxicity of hydroxyl because the electropermeabilization of cell membrane makes bilayer structure more loosen and vulnerable. We also investigate the side effects during scaling down the size of electrodes in electroporation microchips. Higher percentage of cells is damaged when the size of electrodes is smaller. At last, we propose an effective strategy to constrain the change of pH by modifying the composition of electroporation buffer. The modified buffer decreases the changes of pH, thus enables high cell viability even when the electric pulse duration exceeds several milliseconds. This ability has potential advantage in some applications that require long-time electric pulse stimulation.
Significance of the double-layer capacitor effect in polar rubbery dielectrics and exceptionally stable low-voltage high transconductance organic transistors
Authors: Wang Chao , Lee Wen-Ya , Kong Desheng , Pfattner Raphael , Schweicher Guillaume , Nakajima Reina , Lu Chien , Mei Jianguo , Lee Tae Hoon , Wu Hung-Chin , Lopez Jeffery , Diao Ying , Gu Xiaodan , Himmelberger Scott , Niu Weijun , Matthews James R. , He Mingqian , Salleo Alberto , Nishi Yoshio , Bao Zhenan
Published: December 2015

Both high gain and transconductance at low operating voltages are essential for practical applications of organic field-effect transistors (OFETs). Here, we describe the significance of the double-layer capacitance effect in polar rubbery dielectrics, even when present in a very low ion concentration and conductivity. We observed that this effect can greatly enhance the OFET transconductance when driven at low voltages. Specifically, when the polar elastomer poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) (e-PVDF-HFP) was used as the dielectric layer, despite a thickness of several micrometers, we obtained a transconductance per channel width 30 times higher than that measured for the same organic semiconductors fabricated on a semicrystalline PVDF-HFP with a similar thickness. After a series of detailed experimental investigations, we attribute the above observation to the double-layer capacitance effect, even though the ionic conductivity is as low as 10–10 S/cm. Different from previously reported OFETs with double-layer capacitance effects, our devices showed unprecedented high bias-stress stability in air and even in water.
Serum miRNAs panel (miR-16-2*, miR-195, miR-2861, miR-497) as novel non-invasive biomarkers for detection of cervical cancer
Authors: Zhang Yujuan , Zhang Donghong , Wang Fei , Xu Danfei , Guo Ye , Cui Wei
Published: December 2015

miRNAs have been established as critical layer of regulation during tumorigenesis; extracellular miRNAs are extraordinarily stable; and, quantitative reverse transcript polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) provides a sensitive platform for quantifying miRNAs with a broad dynamic range. Herein, we aimed to establish a serum miRNA signature for diagnosing cervical cancer (CC). In this study, we recruited a cohort of 184 CC, 186 cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) patients and 193 healthy control subjects. qRT-PCR was performed with serum samples to screen a pool of 444 miRNAs at the initial phase, 66 miRNAs at the training phase and 7 miRNAs at the validation phase. The profile of 4 circulating miRNAs (miR-16-2*, miR-195, miR-2861, miR-497) was established for CC diagnosis. By Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, this 4-miRNA signature showed high accuracy in discriminating CC (AUC = 0.849) and CIN individuals (AUC = 0.734) from healthy controls. Among these 4 miRNAs, only miR-16-2*, but not miR-195, miR-2861 or miR497, shared a similar pattern in sera of breast cancer and ovarian cancer patients. Overall, our studies have identified a novel noninvasive biomarker constituted with a panel of four miRNAs (miR-16-2*, miR-195, miR-2861, miR-497).
A squeezed light source operated under high vacuum
Authors: Wade Andrew R. , Mansell Georgia L. , Chua Sheon S. Y. , Ward Robert L. , Slagmolen Bram J. J. , Shaddock Daniel A. , McClelland David E.
Published: December 2015

Non-classical squeezed states of light are becoming increasingly important to a range of metrology and other quantum optics applications in cryptography, quantum computation and biophysics. Applications such as improving the sensitivity of advanced gravitational wave detectors and the development of space-based metrology and quantum networks will require robust deployable vacuum-compatible sources. To date non-linear photonics devices operated under high vacuum have been simple single pass systems, testing harmonic generation and the production of classically correlated photon pairs for space-based applications. Here we demonstrate the production under high-vacuum conditions of non-classical squeezed light with an observed 8.6 dB of quantum noise reduction down to 10 Hz. Demonstration of a resonant non-linear optical device, for the generation of squeezed light under vacuum, paves the way to fully exploit the advantages of in-vacuum operations, adapting this technology for deployment into new extreme environments.
No association between HPV positive breast cancer and expression of human papilloma viral transcripts
Authors: Gannon Orla M. , Antonsson Annika , Milevskiy Michael , Brown Melissa A. , Saunders Nicholas A. , Bennett Ian C.
Published: December 2015

Infectious agents are thought to be responsible for approximately 16% of cancers worldwide, however there are mixed reports in the literature as to the prevalence and potential pathogenicity of viruses in breast cancer. Furthermore, most studies to date have focused primarily on viral DNA rather than the expression of viral transcripts. We screened a large cohort of fresh frozen breast cancer and normal breast tissue specimens collected from patients in Australia for the presence of human papilloma virus (HPV) DNA, with an overall prevalence of HPV of 16% and 10% in malignant and non-malignant tissue respectively. Samples that were positive for HPV DNA by nested PCR were screened by RNA-sequencing for the presence of transcripts of viral origin, using three different bioinformatic pipelines. We did not find any evidence for HPV or other viral transcripts in HPV DNA positive samples. In addition, we also screened publicly available breast RNA-seq data sets for the presence of viral transcripts and did not find any evidence for the expression of viral transcripts (HPV or otherwise) in other data sets. This data suggests that transcription of viral genomes is unlikely to be a significant factor in breast cancer pathogenesis.
Sex differences in social modulation of learning in rats
Authors: Mikosz Marta , Nowak Aleksandra , Werka Tomasz , Knapska Ewelina
Published: December 2015

In its simplest form, empathy can be characterized as the capacity to share the emotional experiences among individuals, a phenomenon known as emotional contagion. Recent research shows that emotional contagion and its adaptive role can be studied in rodents. However, it is not known whether sex differences observed in human empathy extend to its more primitive forms. In the present study, we used a rat model of emotional contagion to compare the behavioral consequences of social transfer of information about threat and the subsequent neural activation patterns in male and female rats. We found that: (1) males and females display a similar behavioral pattern during the interaction with either a fear-conditioned or a control rat; (2) interaction with a fear-conditioned conspecific positively modulates two-way avoidance learning in male and diestral female rats but not in estral females; and (3) such interaction results in increased c-Fos expression in the central and lateral nuclei of the amygdala and the prelimbic and infralimbic cortex in males, whereas in females no such changes were observed. Collectively, our results point to the occurrence of sex and estrus cycle phase differences in susceptibility to emotional contagion and underlying neuronal activation in rodents.
Enhanced exchange bias and improved ferromagnetic properties in Permalloy–BiFe0.95Co0.05O3 core–shell nanostructures
Authors: Javed K. , Li W. J. , Ali S. S. , Shi D. W. , Khan U. , Riaz S. , Han X. F.
Published: December 2015

Hybrid core–shell nanostructures consisting of permalloy (Ni80Fe20) and multiferroic(BiFeO3, BFO/BiFe0.95Co0.05O3, BFC) materials were synthesized by a two-step method, based on wet chemical impregnation and subsequent electrodeposition within porous alumina membranes. Structural and magnetic characterizations have been done to investigate doping effect on magnetic properties and exchange bias. The magnetometry analysis revealed significant enhancements of the exchange bias and coercivity in NiFe-BFC core-shell nanostructures as compared with NiFe-BFO core-shell nanostructures. The enhancements can be attributed to the effective reduction of ferromagnet domain sizes between adjacent layers of core-shell structure. It indicates that it is possible to improve properties of multiferroic composites by site-engineering method. Our approach opens a pathway to obtain optimized nanostructured multiferroic composites exhibiting tunable magnetic properties.
Anti-inflammatory effects of Perilla frutescens in activated human neutrophils through two independent pathways: Src family kinases and Calcium
Authors: Chen Chun-Yu , Leu Yann-Lii , Fang Yu , Lin Chwan-Fwu , Kuo Liang-Mou , Sung Wei-Che , Tsai Yung-Fong , Chung Pei-Jen , Lee Ming-Chung , Kuo Yu-Ting , Yang Hsuan-Wu , Hwang Tsong-Long
Published: December 2015

The leaves of Perilla frutescens (L.) Britt. have been traditionally used as an herbal medicine in East Asian countries to treat a variety diseases. In this present study, we investigated the inhibitory effects of P. frutescens extract (PFE) on N-formyl-Met-Leu-Phe (fMLF)-stimulated human neutrophils and the underlying mechanisms. PFE (1, 3 and 10 μg/ml) inhibited superoxide anion production, elastase release, reactive oxygen species formation, CD11b expression and cell migration in fMLF-activated human neutrophils in dose-dependent manners. PFE inhibited fMLF-induced phosphorylation of the Src family kinases (SFKs), Src (Tyr416) and Lyn (Tyr396) and reduced their enzymatic activities. Both PFE and PP2 (a selective inhibitor of SFKs) reduced the phosphorylation of Burton’s tyrosine kinases (Tyr223) and Vav (Tyr174) in fMLF-activated human neutrophils. Additionally, PFE decreased intracellular Ca2+ levels ([Ca2+]i), whereas PP2 prolonged the time required for [Ca2+]i to return to its basal level. Our findings indicated that PFE effectively regulated the inflammatory activities of fMLF-activated human neutrophils. The anti-inflammatory effects of PFE on activated human neutrophils were mediated through two independent signaling pathways involving SFKs (Src and Lyn) and mobilization of intracellular Ca2+.
Combination of NTP with cetuximab inhibited invasion/migration of cetuximab-resistant OSCC cells: Involvement of NF-κB signaling
Authors: Chang Jae Won , Kang Sung Un , Shin Yoo Seob , Seo Seong Jin , Kim Yeon Soo , Yang Sang Sik , Lee Jong-Soo , Moon Eunpyo , Lee Keunho , Kim Chul-Ho
Published: December 2015

Although the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is an established target in head-and-neck cancer (HNC), resistance to EGFR-targeted therapy mediated by various mechanisms has been reported. Therefore, a combination strategy to overcome resistance to EGFR mono-targeted therapy is clinically required. We have previously demonstrated that non-thermal atmospheric pressure plasma (NTP) induces death of various cancer cells, including oral squamous cancer (OSCC) cells. In this study, we report for the first time that combining NTP treatment with cetuximab led to inhibition of migration and invasion in cetuximab-resistant OSCC cells, which could be a promising strategy to overcome resistance to anti-EGFR therapy. NTP induced deactivation of NF-κB in SCCQLL1 cells, but not in MSKQLL1 cells. In addition, NTP increased the expression level of E-cadherin and decreased those of vimentin, Slug, Snail, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, -9 and activities of MMPs. Moreover, NF-κB upregulation using cDNA diminished the combination effect of NTP on invasion, migration and related signals. Taken together, these results indicate that the combination of NTP with cetuximab can decrease invasiveness in cetuximab-resistant OSCCs through a novel mechanism involving the NF-κB pathway. These findings show the therapeutic potential of treatment that combines NTP and cetuximab in OSCC.
Blood lead level and its association with body mass index and obesity in China - Results from SPECT-China study
Authors: Wang Ningjian , Chen Chi , Nie Xiaomin , Han Bing , Li Qin , Chen Yi , Zhu Chunfang , Chen Yingchao , Xia Fangzhen , Cang Zhen , Lu Meng , Meng Ying , Zhai Hualing , Lin Dongping , Cui Shiyong , Jensen Michael D. , Lu Yingli
Published: December 2015

We aimed to report environmental and blood lead level (BLL) in China and investigate the relationship of BLL with body mass index (BMI) and obesity. 5558 subjects were enrolled from 16 sites in China. BLL was measured by atomic absorption spectrometry. Obesity was defined as BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2. Median (interquartile range) of BLL was 44.00 μg/L (29.00–62.16) for men and 37.79 μg/L (25.13–54.35) for women, about twice higher than in U.S. population. Subjects in rural and high-economic-status areas had significantly greater BLL (P < 0.001). However, in these areas, the lead levels in drinking water, river water and rice were comparable to or significantly lower than those in urban and low-economic-status areas. After adjustment for age, urbanization, economic status and metabolic factors, BLL was independently associated with BMI in women (Pfor trend < 0.001), but not in men. In fully adjusted model, increased quartiles of BLL were associated with significantly increased odds ratios of obesity (Pfor trend < 0.01) in women. In conclusion, BLLs in Chinese adults were much higher than in developed countries. There was a sex-specific association between BLL and BMI. Elevated BLL does not appear to be associated with lead levels in drinking water or rice, suggesting some other exposure source.
The Saccharomyces cerevisiae poly(A) binding protein Pab1 as a target for eliciting stress tolerant phenotypes
Authors: Martani Francesca , Marano Francesca , Bertacchi Stefano , Porro Danilo , Branduardi Paola
Published: December 2015

When exploited as cell factories, Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells are exposed to harsh environmental stresses impairing titer, yield and productivity of the fermentative processes. The development of robust strains therefore represents a pivotal challenge for the implementation of cost-effective bioprocesses. Altering master regulators of general cellular rewiring represents a possible strategy to evoke shaded potential that may accomplish the desirable features. The poly(A) binding protein Pab1, as stress granules component, was here selected as the target for obtaining widespread alterations in mRNA metabolism, resulting in stress tolerant phenotypes. Firstly, we demonstrated that the modulation of Pab1 levels improves robustness against different stressors. Secondly, the mutagenesis of PAB1 and the application of a specific screening protocol on acetic acid enriched medium allowed the isolation of the further ameliorated mutant pab1 A60-9. These findings pave the way for a novel approach to unlock industrially promising phenotypes through the modulation of a post-transcriptional regulatory element.
A responsive MOF nanocomposite for decoding volatile organic compounds
Authors: Zhou You , Yan Bing
Published: December 2015

A molecular decoding platform, which recognizes aromatic VOCs with distinctly different 2D readouts, has been developed by a responsive luminescent MOF nanocomposite. The VOC recognition is based on an unprecedented dual-readout orthogonal identification scheme.
The fabrication of BiOClxBr1−x/alumina composite films with highly exposed {001} facets and their superior photocatalytic activities
Authors: Dandapat Anirban , Gnayem Hani , Sasson Yoel
Published: December 2015

Bismuth oxyhalide solid solution (BiOClxBr1−x)/alumina composite films with highly exposed {001} facets showed superior photocatalytic activities compared to those of randomly oriented facets.
Anti-icing properties of a superhydrophobic surface in a salt environment: an unexpected increase in freezing delay times for weak brine droplets
Authors: Boinovich Ludmila B. , Emelyanenko Alexandre M. , Emelyanenko Kirill A. , Maslakov Konstantin I.
Published: December 2015

A drastic change in the crystallization statistics was detected for the sessile droplets of weak brine in comparison to water.
Correction: Electronic and magnetic properties of DUT-8(Ni)
Authors: Trepte Kai , Schwalbe Sebastian , Seifert Gotthard
Published: December 2015

Correction for ‘Electronic and magnetic properties of DUT-8(Ni)’ by Kai Trepte et al., Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2015, 17, 17122–17129.
Vibrational spectroscopy in sensing radiobiological effects: analyses of targeted and non-targeted effects in human keratinocytes
Authors: Meade Aidan D. , Howe Orla , Unterreiner Valérie , Sockalingum Ganesh D. , Byrne Hugh J. , Lyng Fiona M.
Published: December 2015

Modern models of radiobiological effects include mechanisms of damage initiation, sensing and repair, for those cells that directly absorb ionizing radiation as well as those that experience molecular signals from directly irradiated cells. In the former case, the effects are termed targeted effects while, in the latter, non-targeted effects. It has emerged that phenomena occur at low doses below 1 Gy in directly irradiated cells that are associated with cell-cycle-dependent mechanisms of DNA damage sensing and repair. Likewise in non-targeted bystander-irradiated cells the effect saturates at 0.5 Gy. Both effects at these doses challenge the limits of detection of vibrational spectroscopy. In this paper, a study of the sensing of both targeted and non-targeted effects in HaCaT human keratinocytes irradiated with gamma ray photons is conducted with vibrational spectroscopy. In the case of directly irradiated cells, it is shown that the HaCaT cell line does exhibit both hyperradiosensitivity and increased radioresistance at low doses, a transition between the two effects occurring at a dose of 200 mGy, and that cell survival and other physiological effects as a function of dose follow the induced repair model. Both Raman and FTIR signatures are shown to follow a similar model, suggesting that the spectra include signatures of DNA damage sensing and repair. In bystander-irradiated cells, pro- and anti-apoptotic signalling and mechanisms of ROS damage were inhibited in the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) transduction pathway. It is shown that Raman spectral profiles of bystander-irradiated cells are correlated with markers of bystander signalling and molecular transduction. This work demonstrates for the first time that both targeted and non-targeted effects of ionizing radiation damage are detected by vibrational spectroscopyin vitro.
Sol–gel encapsulated lithium polysulfide catholyte and its application in lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Smith Leland C. , Malati Peter , Fang Jonathan , Richardson Wade , Ashby David , Lai Chun-Han , Dunn Bruce S.
Published: December 2015

Careful control of sol–gel chemistry allows for the encapsulation of water-reactive lithium polysulfides
In situ formation of peptidic nanofibers can fundamentally optimize the quality of immune responses against HIV vaccine
Authors: Liu Ye , Wang Huaimin , Li Dan , Tian Yue , Liu Wenwen , Zhang Lingmin , Zheng Wenshu , Hao Yanling , Liu Jiandong , Yang Zhimou , Shao Yiming , Jiang Xingyu
Published: December 2015

Peptidic nanofibers can provide convenience for administration, and facilitate the induction of multiple crucial immunities against HIV DNA vaccine, including polyfunctional T cell response, broad IgG subclasses response, and V1/V2 loop-specific antibody response.
Supramolecular catalysis by β-cyclodextrin for the synthesis of kojic acid derivatives in water
Authors: Kataev Evgeny A. , Ramana Reddy Mittapalli , Niranjan Reddy Gangarpu , Reddy Vemulapati Hanuman , Suresh Reddy Cirandur , Subba Reddy Basi V.
Published: December 2015

An efficient and green method has been developed for the synthesis of kojic acid derivatives by employing 20 mol% β-cyclodextrin in aqueous media.
Rapid-releasing of HI-6 via brain-targeted mesoporous silica nanoparticles for nerve agent detoxification
Authors: Yang Jun , Fan Lixue , Wang Feijian , Luo Yuan , Sui Xin , Li Wanhua , Zhang Xiaohong , Wang Yongan
Published: December 2015

Transferrin-modified mesoporous silica nanoparticles could rapidly deliver and release an antidote to the brain for effectively detoxifying nerve agent poisoning.
Facile synthesis of SnO2–PbS nanocomposites with controlled structure for applications in photocatalysis
Authors: Kar Arik , Sain Sumanta , Rossouw David , Knappett Benjamin R. , Pradhan Swapan Kumar , Wheatley Andrew E. H.
Published: December 2015

A SnO2–PbS nanocomposite photocatalyst has been designed to combat electron–hole recombination and narrow photoresponsive range. Structural elucidation explains how the two semiconductors function synergistically in Rhodamine B photodegradation.
Induced conformational change on ferrocenyl-terminated alkyls and their application as transducers for label-free immunosensing of Alzheimer's disease biomarker
Authors: Mars Abdelmoneim , Argoubi Wicem , Ben Aoun Sami , Raouafi Noureddine
Published: December 2015

ApoE Alzheimer's disease biomarker can be sensitively detected by a label-free platform using flexible ferrocene-terminated alkyl chains. The immunorecognition triggers conformational changes, which improve the rate constants of electron-transfer.
Properties and structures of commercial polygalacturonase with ultrasound treatment: role of ultrasound in enzyme activation
Authors: Ma Xiaobin , Wang Wenjun , Zou Mingming , Ding Tian , Ye Xingqian , Liu Donghong
Published: December 2015

This work investigated the effect of ultrasound on the enzymatic properties and structures of polygalacturonase for the first time.
A novel stable hydrogen-rich SnH8 under high pressure
Authors: Zhang Huadi , Jin Xilian , Lv Yunzhou , Zhuang Quan , Liu Yunxian , Lv Qianqian , Li Da , Bao Kuo , Liu Bingbing , Cui Tian
Published: December 2015

By structure searching techniques, a novel metallic SnH8 crystal with the space group of I4̄m2 is predicted.
Synthesis of optically pure (S)-2-amino-5-arylpent-4-ynoic acids by Sonogashira reactions and their potential use as highly selective potent inhibitors of aldose reductase
Authors: Parpart Silvio , Petrosyan Andranik , Ali Shah Syed Jawad , Adewale Raji Akeem , Ehlers Peter , Grigoryan Tatevik , Mkrtchyan Anna F. , Mardiyan Zorayr Z. , Karapetyan Ani J. , Tsaturyan Avetis H. , Saghyan Ashot S. , Iqbal Jamshed , Langer Peter
Published: December 2015

A new and convenient synthesis of optically pure (S)-2-amino-5-[aryl]pent-4-ynoic acids (alkynylated amino acids) is reported.
Electrocatalytic activity of a nitrogen-enriched mesoporous carbon framework and its hybrids with metal nanoparticles fabricated through the pyrolysis of block copolymers
Authors: Lu Yen-Hsing , Liou Jiun-You , Lin Chien-Fu , Sun Ya-Sen
Published: December 2015

Small metal NPs at NEMCF exhibit a four-electron transfer pathway, a large kinetic current density and a small onset potential.
Synthesis and photovoltaic properties of A–D–A type non-fullerene acceptors containing isoindigo terminal units
Authors: Liu Xin , Xie Yuan , Cai Xinyi , Li Yunchuan , Wu Hongbin , Su Shi-Jian , Cao Yong
Published: December 2015

Four solution-processable acceptor–donor–acceptor structured organic molecules with isoindigo as terminal acceptor units and different aromatic rigid planar cores as donor units were designed and synthesized as the acceptor materials in organic solar cells (OSCs).
Tetracycline hydrochloride loaded regenerated cellulose composite membranes with controlled release and efficient antibacterial performance
Authors: Shao Wei , Wang Shuxia , Liu Xiufeng , Liu Hui , Wu Jimin , Zhang Rui , Min Huihua , Huang Min
Published: December 2015

Fabrication of cellulose based composites with controlled release and efficient antibacterial performances is of general interest in biomedical areas.
Photothermal and photodynamic therapy reagents based on rGO–C6H4–COOH
Authors: Wei Guangcheng , Yan Miaomiao , Ma Liying , Wang Chunhua
Published: December 2015

A photothermal and photodynamic therapy reagent based on rGO–C6H4–COOH was developed, which could effectively induce cancer cell apoptosis.
Understanding and controlling the release mechanism of Escherichia coli in double W1/O/W2emulsion globules in the presence of NaCl in the W2phase
Authors: El Kadri Hani , Overton Tim , Bakalis Serafim , Gkatzionis Konstantinos
Published: December 2015

The results suggest that release of bacteria from W1/O/W2emulsion can be controlled by varying the formulation. Release occurs due to oil globule bursting independent to diffusion.
Efficient adsorption of organic dyes on a flexible single-wall carbon nanotube film
Authors: Luan Jian , Hou Peng-Xiang , Liu Chang , Shi Chao , Li Guo-Xian , Cheng Hui-Ming
Published: December 2015

A flexible single-wall carbon nanotube film prepared by simple filtration exhibited excellent adsorption of organic dyes under ultraviolet light in which a photodegradation-induced electrostatic interaction plays an important role.
Holmium induced enhanced functionality at room temperature and structural phase transition at high temperature in bismuth ferrite nanoparticles
Authors: Chaturvedi Smita , Bag Rabindranath , Sathe Vasant , Kulkarni Sulabha , Singh Surjeet
Published: December 2015

Ho-doped sample simultaneously exhibits high-coercivity and enhanced remnant magnetization with a polar R3c symmetry at room temperature. The onset of R3c to Pnma phase transition is observed at high temperatures in the Ho-doped samples.
Photoluminescent materials based on PMMA and a highly-emissive octahedral molybdenum metal cluster complex
Authors: Efremova Olga A. , Brylev Konstantin A. , Vorotnikov Yuri A. , Vejsadová Lucie , Shestopalov Michael A. , Chimonides Gwen F. , Mikes Petr , Topham Paul D. , Kim Sung-Jin , Kitamura Noboru , Sutherland Andrew J.
Published: December 2015

Transparent yet photoluminescent, materials with facile processability are key in many applications.
Polymorphism-dependent aggregation induced emission of a push–pull dye and its multi-stimuli responsive behavior
Authors: Botta Chiara , Benedini Sara , Carlucci Lucia , Forni Alessandra , Marinotto Daniele , Nitti Andrea , Pasini Dario , Righetto Stefania , Cariati Elena
Published: December 2015

A push–pull dye with AIE polymorphism-dependent properties shows mechano-, thermo- and chrono-chromism associated with stimuli-induced surface structural defects.
Synthesis, properties, and OLED characteristics of 2,2′-bipyridine-based electron-transport materials: the synergistic effect of molecular shape anisotropy and a weak hydrogen-bonding network on molecular orientation
Authors: Watanabe Yuichiro , Sasabe Hisahiro , Yokoyama Daisuke , Beppu Teruo , Katagiri Hiroshi , Kido Junji
Published: December 2015

We investigated the synergistic effect of molecular shape anisotropy and intermolecular hydrogen-bonds in the BPy derivatives on molecular orientation towards OLEDs.
Large-area, stretchable, super flexible and mechanically stable thermoelectric films of polymer/carbon nanotube composites
Authors: Liang Lirong , Gao Caiyan , Chen Guangming , Guo Cun-Yue
Published: December 2015

Large-area, stretchable, super flexible and mechanically stable thermoelectric films of polymer/carbon nanotube composites.
Involvement of ROS-mediated mitochondrial dysfunction and SIRT3 down-regulation in tris(2-chloroethyl)phosphate-induced cell cycle arrest
Authors: Zhang Wenjuan , Zhang Youjian , Xu Tian , Wang Zhiyuan , Wang Jing , Xiong Wei , Lu Wenhong , Zheng Hongyan , Yuan Jing
Published: December 2015

TCEP induced G2/M cell cycle arrest and mitochondrial dysfunction through enhancement of mitochondrial oxidative stress and SIRT3 down-regulation in Chang liver cells.
Stabilisation of grid assistance for a renewable hydrogen generation system by min‐projection strategy
Authors: Gabriel García Clúa José , Mantz Ricardo J. , De Battista Hernán , Gallegos Norma G.
Published: December 2015

Control of grid assistance is proposed in this study for a renewable hydrogen generation system of simple and robust structure. Here, the grid connection serves the dual purpose of minimising the effect of wind power variations in the electrolyser supply as well as maximising the hydrogen production. To regulate the electrolyser current at its rated value, a cascade control scheme is posed. The feedback loop which commands the grid converter switching is of interest for the design. The min‐projection strategy that stabilises a switched affine system is applied as the switching law. The analysis of switched equilibria and their stability is done by employing the concepts of Filippov inclusion and common Lyapunov function, respectively. The obtained theoretical results are corroborated by numerical simulation.
Disturbance‐observer‐based‐control and L2 −L∞ resilient control for Markovian jump non‐linear systems with multiple disturbances and its application to single robot arm system
Authors: Li Yankai , Sun Haibin , Zong Guangdeng , Hou Linlin
Published: December 2015

In this study, the problem of disturbance‐observer‐based‐control (DOBC) and L2 −L∞ resilient control for Markovian jump non‐linear systems with multiple disturbances is investigated. The disturbances are divided into two parts: one part is produced by an exogenous system and the other part is supposed to lie in the space of L2 [0,∞). A disturbance observer is designed to estimate the first one, and the disturbance estimation is introduced into L2 −L∞ resilient state feedback control law. Hence, by combining DOBC and L2 −L∞ control methods, a composite anti‐disturbance controller is designed to attenuate and reject two kinds of disturbances. Some sufficient conditions are obtained by using Lyapunov function method and linear matrix inequalities technique. Finally, an application example is given to illustrate the effectiveness of the main algorithm.
PV and CSP integration study experience in a Mediterranean partner country
Authors: Mentesidi Konstantina , Khallaayoun Ahmed , Harmouch Fatima Zahra , Loudiyi Khalid , Aguado Monica
Published: December 2015

The current study employs static and dynamic analysis configurations under different case studies in order to define the allocation, maximum capacity of non‐conventional generation with emphasis on photovoltaic (PV), concentrating solar power (CSP) and wind energy technologies that may be inhabited within a region of a Mediterranean partner country. This work focuses on the impact that may induce any distributed units’ addition on the power system's load flow and transient stability. A group of substations were proposed to introduce the dispersed generation with the extension in mind to suggest the voltage level to connect these units. The main issues addressed were the total system losses and short‐circuit capacity whereas among the most critical disturbances was a three‐phase fault incident. Thermal and solar plants using basic machine models such as synchronous generator, exciter and governor and a wind farm employing doubly fed induction generator technology were chosen throughout this research study. The dynamic behaviour of the system elements was examined by changing the solar irradiance, applying a three‐phase fault at the PV and wind power plant connected buses and by performing open‐circuit setpoint step tests for one of the CSP exciter models. PSS®E software simulation tool of Siemens PTI will be utilised throughout this work.
Le repositionnement incisif : une nouvelle approche en
orthodontie
Authors: Dallel Ines , Khemiri Mourad , Fathallah Safa , Ben Rejeb Salwa , Tobji Samir , Ben Amor Adel
Published: December 2015

L’axe des incisives inférieures occupe une position «clé» dans différentes analyses
céphalométriques. Cependant, les critiques se rapportant à la téléradiographie et aux
repères céphalométriques (point, ligne, angle) sont nombreuses. Les normes publiées et les
standards céphalométriques recommandés pour le positionnement optimal des incisives ne
peuvent être utilisés que comme des lignes-guides cliniques. Le repositionnement des
incisives en vue d’une esthétique faciale et d’une fonction optimales requiert la prise en
compte des tissus durs et des tissus mous de la face, du profil, de la dynamique
musculaire et de la croissance faciale. L’objectif de ce travail est de proposer une
nouvelle approche du repositionnement incisif, illustrée par des cas cliniques, en tenant
compte du contexte osseux, des facteurs parodontaux, fonctionnels et esthétiques.
Mouvements dentaires orthodontiques au travers du sinus
maxillaire chez une patiente adulte présentant des édentements multiples
Authors: Oh Heesoo , Herchold Kiri , Hannon Stephanie , Heetland Kelly , Ashraf Golnaz , Nguyen Vince , Cho Heon Jae
Published: December 2015

Ce rapport de cas décrit des déplacements dentaires orthodontiques réussis, au travers du
sinus maxillaire chez une patiente adulte. Il s’agit d’une femme de 41 ans d’origine
asiatique présentant une biprochéïlie sévère et l’absence de plusieurs dents postérieures.
Son traitement orthodontique incluait l’avulsion de deux dents, le recul maximal des
incisives par utilisation des espaces d’extraction et ceux laissés par les molaires
manquantes, ainsi que la fermeture des espaces résiduels. En dépit de la longue durée du
traitement due à des contraintes anatomiques et biologiques associées aux déplacements des
dents postérieures sur une longue distance au travers du sinus maxillaire, un résultat
satisfaisant est obtenu avec un remodelage osseux significatif du sinus maxillaire. Ces
résultats démontrent qu’un système de force bien choisi peut permettre de venir à bout des
contraintes anatomiques représentées par la paroi corticale du sinus maxillaire lors des
déplacements dentaires.
A novel instrument for generating angular increments of 1 nanoradian
Authors: Alcock Simon G. , Bugnar Alex , Nistea Ioana , Sawhney Kawal , Scott Stewart , Hillman Michael , Grindrod Jamie , Johnson Iain
Published: December 2015

Accurate generation of small angles is of vital importance for calibrating angle-based metrology instruments used in a broad spectrum of industries including mechatronics, nano-positioning, and optic fabrication. We present a novel, piezo-driven, flexure device capable of reliably generating micro- and nanoradian angles. Unlike many such instruments, Diamond Light Source’s nano-angle generator (Diamond-NANGO) does not rely on two separate actuators or rotation stages to provide coarse and fine motion. Instead, a single Physik Instrumente NEXLINE “PiezoWalk” actuator provides millimetres of travel with nanometre resolution. A cartwheel flexure efficiently converts displacement from the linear actuator into rotary motion with minimal parasitic errors. Rotation of the flexure is directly measured via a Magnescale “Laserscale” angle encoder. Closed-loop operation of the PiezoWalk actuator, using high-speed feedback from the angle encoder, ensures that the Diamond-NANGO’s output drifts by only ∼0.3 nrad rms over ∼30 min. We show that the Diamond-NANGO can reliably move with unprecedented 1 nrad (∼57 ndeg) angular increments over a range of >7000 μrad. An autocollimator, interferometer, and capacitive displacement sensor are used to independently confirm the Diamond-NANGO’s performance by simultaneously measuring the rotation of a reflective cube.
Generation of droplets to serpentine threads on a rotating compact-disk platform
Authors: Kar Shantimoy , Joshi Sumit , Chaudhary Kaustav , Maiti Tapas Kumar , Chakraborty Suman
Published: December 2015

We generate stable monodisperse droplets of nano-liter volumes and long serpentine liquid threads in a single, simple “Y”-shaped microchannel mounted on a rotationally actuated lab-on-a-compact-disk platform. Exploitation of Coriolis force offers versatile modus operandi of the present setup, without involving any design complications. Based on the fundamental understanding and subsequent analysis, we present scaling theories consistent with the experimental observations. We also outline specific applications of this technique, in the biological as well as in the physical domain, including digital polymerase chain reaction (PCR), controlled release of medical components, digital counting of colony forming units, hydrogel engineering, optical sensors and scaffolds for living tissues, to name a few.
Experimental investigations of electron heating dynamics and ion energy distributions in capacitive discharges driven by customized voltage waveforms
Authors: Berger Birk , Brandt Steven , Franek James , Schüngel Edmund , Koepke Mark , Mussenbrock Thomas , Schulze Julian
Published: December 2015

Capacitively coupled radio frequency plasmas driven by customized voltage waveforms provide enhanced opportunities to control process-relevant energy distributions of different particle species. Here, we present an experimental investigation of the spatio-temporal electron heating dynamics probed by Phase-Resolved Optical Emission Spectroscopy (PROES) in an argon discharge driven by up to three consecutive harmonics of 13.56 MHz with individually adjustable harmonics' amplitudes and phases. PROES and voltage measurements are performed at fixed total voltage amplitudes as a function of the number of driving harmonics, their relative phases, and pressure to study the effects of changing the applied voltage waveform on the heating dynamics in collisionless and collisional regimes. Additionally, the ion energy distribution function (IEDF) is measured at low pressure. In this collisionless regime, the discharge is operated in the α-mode. The velocity of energetic electron beams generated by the expanding sheaths is found to be affected by the number of driving harmonics and their relative phases. This is understood based on the sheath dynamics obtained from a model that determines sheath voltage waveforms. The formation of the measured IEDFs is understood and found to be directly affected by the observed changes in the electron heating dynamics. It is demonstrated that the mean ion energy can be controlled by adjusting the harmonics' phases. In the collisional regime at higher pressures changing the number of harmonics and their phases at fixed voltage is found to induce heating mode transitions from the α- to the γ-mode. Finally, a method to use PROES as a non-invasive diagnostic to monitor and detect changes of the ion flux to the electrodes is developed.
Ab initiostudy of anisotropic mechanical properties of LiCoO2 during lithium intercalation and deintercalation process
Authors: Wu Linmin , Zhang Jing
Published: December 2015

The mechanical properties of LixCoO2 under various Li concentrations and associated anisotropy have been systematically studied using the first principles method. During the lithium intercalation process, the Young's modulus, bulk modulus, shear modulus, and ultimate strength increase with increasing lithium concentration. Strong anisotropy of mechanical properties between a-axis and c-axis in LixCoO2 is identified at low lithium concentrations, and the anisotropy decreases with increasing lithium concentration. The observed lithium concentration dependence and anisotropy are explained by analyzing the charge transfer using Bader charge analysis, bond order analysis, and bond strength by investigating partial density of states and charge density difference. With the decrease of Li concentration, the charge depletion in the bonding regions increases, indicating a weaker Co-O bond strength. Additionally, the Young's modulus, bulk modulus, shear modulus, and toughness are obtained by simulating ab initio tensile tests. From the simulated stress-strain curves, LixCoO2 shows the highest toughness, which is in contraction with Pugh criterion prediction based on elastic properties only.