bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AGN dusty plasma polarization features
Authors: Lopez Ericson D. , Deustua Susana
Published: March 2015

We present the results of a theoretical study on the influence of dust particles on the polarization properties of the radiation that propagates along the jet in AGNs. First, a model for describing the interaction of dust particles, in addition to the electrons and ions, with electromagnetic radiation in a magneto-active plasma has been developed. From here, the contribution of dust particles to the Faraday rotation of the plane of polarization of the electric vector can be deduced. This model is evaluated for the outer region of the jet where the presence of dust particles are assumed, the magnetic field is weak and the electron density is low. Our results show that the dust particles give a significant contribution to the linear Faraday rotation measure.
Synergies in extragalactic and Galactic jet research
Authors: Romero Gustavo E.
Published: March 2015

The discovery of relativistic jets and superluminal sources associated with accreting X-ray binaries in the Galaxy opened new ways of investigating the physics of outflows from compact objects. The short timescales and relatively large angular sizes of Galactic jets allow to probe the physics of relativistic outflows to unprecedented details. In this article I discuss results of recent modelling of Galactic jets, covering both radiative and dynamical aspects, which can shed light on different features of their extragalactic cousins.
Explaining the flat-spectrum radio core Sgr A* with GRMHD simulations of jets
Authors: Mościbrodzka Monika A.
Published: March 2015

The supermassive black hole in the center of the Milky Way, Sgr A*, displays a nearly flat radio spectrum which is typical for jets in Active Galactic Nuclei. Indeed, time dependent, magnetized models of radiatively inefficient accretion flows, which are commonly used to explain the millimeter, near-infrared, and X-ray emission of Sgr A* also often produce jet-like outflows. However, the emission from these models so far has failed to reproduce the flat radio spectrum. We show that current GRMHD simulations can naturally reproduce the flat spectrum, when using a two-temperature plasma in the disk and a constant electron temperature plasma in the jet. This assumption is consistent with current state-of-the art simulations, in which the electron temperature evolution is not explicitly modeled. Stronger magnetization and stronger shearing seen in the jet sheath could possibly explain the difference in electron heating between jet and disk. The model images and spectra are consistent with the radio sizes and spectrum of Sgr A*.
Simulations of flux variability of oscillating accretion fluid tori around Kerr black holes
Authors: Bakala Pavel , Goluchová Kateřina , Šrámková Eva , Kotrlová Andrea , Török Gabriel , Vincent Frederic H. , Abramowicz Marek A.
Published: March 2015

High frequency quasi-periodic oscillations (HF QPOs) are observed in the X-ray power-density spectra (PDS) of several microquasars and low mass X-ray binaries. Many proposed QPO models are based on oscillations of accretion toroidal fluid structures orbiting in the vicinity of a compact object. We study oscillating accretion tori orbiting in the vicinity of a Kerr black hole. We demonstrate that significant variation of the observed flux can be caused by the combination of radial and vertical oscillation modes of a slender, polytropic, perfect fluid, non-self-graviting torus with constant specific angular momentum. We investigate two combinations of the oscillating modes corresponding to the direct resonance QPO model and the modified relativistic precession QPO model.
Are jet ubiquitous in ULXs?
Authors: Wolter A. , Ghisellini G. , Costamante L. , Pintore F.
Published: March 2015

A jet model represents well different X-ray states of the bright ULX IC342 X-1.
The epidemiology of common mental disorders from age 20 to 50: results from the prospective Zurich cohort Study
Authors: Angst J. , Paksarian D. , Cui L. , Merikangas K. R. , Hengartner M. P. , Ajdacic-Gross V. , Rössler W.
Published: March 2015

Background:

There are only a small number of prospective studies that have systematically evaluated standardised diagnostic criteria for mental disorder for more than a decade. The aim of this study is to present the approximated overall and sex-specific cumulative incidence of mental disorder in the Zurich cohort study, a prospective cohort study of 18–19 years olds from the canton of Zurich, Switzerland, who were followed through age 50.

Method:

A stratified sample of 591 participants were interviewed with the Structured Psychopathological Interview and Rating of the Social Consequences of Psychological Disturbances for Epidemiology, a semi-structured interview that uses a bottom-up approach to assess the past-year presence of 15 psychiatric syndromes. Seven interview waves took place between 1979 and 2008. Approximated cumulative incidence was estimated using Kaplan–Meier methods.

Results:

Rates of mental disorder were considerably higher than those generally reported in cross-sectional surveys. We found rates ranging from 32.5% for major depressive disorder to 1.2% for Bipolar I disorder. The cumulative probability of experiencing any of the mental disorders assessed by age 50 was 73.9%, the highest reported to date. We also found that rates differed by sex for most disorders, with females generally reporting higher rates of mood, anxiety and phobic disorder, and males reporting higher rates of substance- and alcohol-related disorders.

Conclusions:

These findings confirm those of other long-term prospective studies that indicate the nearly universal nature of disturbances of emotion and behaviour across the life span. Greater community awareness of the normative nature of these experiences is warranted. An important area of future research is study long-term course and stability to determine who among those with such disturbances suffer from chronic disabling mental disorders. Such longitudinal studies may aid in directing services and intervention efforts where they are most needed.
Allergen‐induced interleukin‐18 promotes experimental eosinophilic oesophagitis in mice
Authors: Dutt Parmesh , Shukla Jai Shankar , Ventateshaiah Sathisha Upparahalli , Mariswamy Siddesha Jalahalli , Mattner Jochen , Shukla Anshi , Mishra Anil
Published: March 2015

Elevated levels of interleukin (IL)‐18 have been reported in a number of allergic diseases. We recently reported that IL‐18 in the blood and IL‐18Rα mRNA in the oesophagus are induced during human eosinophilic oesophagitis (EoE). Additionally, we earlier showed that invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells are critical to EoE pathogenesis; however, the mechanism of iNKT cell activation in EoE is not well understood. Therefore, the current study focused on the hypothesis that allergen‐induced IL‐18 may have an important role in iNKT cell‐mediated EoE pathogenesis. We first validated the human EoE findings of IL‐18 in experimental EoE by examining blood levels of IL‐18 and oesophageal IL‐18Rα mRNA levels in aeroallergen‐ and food allergen‐induced experimental mouse models of EoE. We demonstrate that blood IL‐18 protein and oesophageal IL‐18Rα mRNA are induced in the mouse model of EoE and that IL‐18Rα is expressed by iNKT cells in the oesophagus. Intranasal delivery of rIL‐18 induced both mast cells and eosinophilic inflammation in the oesophagus in a time‐ and dose‐dependent manner. To establish the significance of IL‐18 in EoE pathogenesis, we examined DOX‐inducible rtTA‐CC10‐IL‐18 bitransgenic mice that induce IL‐18 protein expression in the oesophagus. Our analysis indicated that induction of IL‐18 in these mice resulted in the development of many of the characteristics of EoE, including oesophageal intraepithelial eosinophilia, increased mast cells, oesophageal remodelling and fibrosis. The current study provides evidence that IL‐18 may induce iNKT cell activation to release the eosinophil‐activating cytokine IL‐5, as IL‐5‐deficient mice and iNKT cell‐deficient (CD1d null) mice do not induce EoE in response to intranasal IL‐18 challenge. Taken together, these findings provide evidence that allergen‐induced IL‐18 has a significant role in promoting IL‐5‐ and iNKT‐dependent EoE pathogenesis.
The importance of co‐stimulation in the orchestration of T helper cell differentiation
Authors: Coquet Jonathan M , Rausch Lisa , Borst Jannie
Published: March 2015

Upon their activation, CD4 T cells can differentiate into distinct T helper cell subsets with specialised functions. Different T helper cell subsets produce specific cytokines that mediate beneficial and sometimes detrimental effects, depending on the infection or disease setting. CD4 T‐cell priming relies on signals delivered by the T‐cell antigen receptor, co‐stimulatory receptors and cytokine receptors on the CD4 T‐cell surface. Cytokine receptors are well known to deliver instructive signals that direct T helper cell differentiation. However, it is less appreciated that co‐stimulatory receptors also exert potent modulatory effects on this process. In this review, we outline the contribution of co‐stimulatory and co‐inhibitory receptors to the process of T helper cell differentiation, focusing on those pathways for which the underlying mechanisms are best known. Herein, we depict the physiological context of T‐cell priming and emphasise the impact of cell–cell communication on directing T helper cell differentiation.
Arc expression identifies the lateral amygdala fear memory trace
Authors: Gouty-Colomer L A , Hosseini B , Marcelo I M , Schreiber J , Slump D E , Yamaguchi S , Houweling A R , Jaarsma D , Elgersma Y , Kushner S A
Published: March 2015

Memories are encoded within sparsely distributed neuronal ensembles. However, the defining cellular properties of neurons within a memory trace remain incompletely understood. Using a fluorescence-based Arc reporter, we were able to visually identify the distinct subset of lateral amygdala (LA) neurons activated during auditory fear conditioning. We found that Arc-expressing neurons have enhanced intrinsic excitability and are preferentially recruited into newly encoded memory traces. Furthermore, synaptic potentiation of thalamic inputs to the LA during fear conditioning is learning-specific, postsynaptically mediated and highly localized to Arc-expressing neurons. Taken together, our findings validate the immediate-early gene Arc as a molecular marker for the LA neuronal ensemble recruited during fear learning. Moreover, these results establish a model of fear memory formation in which intrinsic excitability determines neuronal selection, whereas learning-related encoding is governed by synaptic plasticity.
Xanthine oxidoreductase regulates macrophage IL1β secretion upon NLRP3 inflammasome activation
Authors: Ives Annette , Nomura Johji , Martinon Fabio , Roger Thierry , LeRoy Didier , Miner Jeffrey N. , Simon Gregoire , Busso Nathalie , So Alexander
Published: March 2015

Activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome by microbial ligands or tissue damage requires intracellular generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). We present evidence that macrophage secretion of IL1β upon stimulation with ATP, crystals or LPS is mediated by a rapid increase in the activity of xanthine oxidase (XO), the oxidized form of xanthine dehydrogenase, resulting in the formation of uric acid as well as ROS. We show that XO-derived ROS, but not uric acid, is the trigger for IL1β release and that XO blockade results in impaired IL1β and caspase1 secretion. XO is localized to both cytoplasmic and mitochondrial compartments and acts upstream to the PI3K–AKT signalling pathway that results in mitochondrial ROS generation. This pathway represents a mechanism for regulating NLRP3 inflammasome activation that may have therapeutic implications in inflammatory diseases.
Ultimate thin vertical p–n junction composed of two-dimensional layered molybdenum disulfide
Authors: Li Hua-Min , Lee Daeyeong , Qu Deshun , Liu Xiaochi , Ryu Jungjin , Seabaugh Alan , Yoo Won Jong
Published: March 2015

Semiconducting two-dimensional crystals are currently receiving significant attention because of their great potential to be an ultrathin body for efficient electrostatic modulation, which enables to overcome the limitations of silicon technology. Here we report that, as a key building block for two-dimensional semiconductor devices, vertical p–n junctions are fabricated in ultrathin MoS2 by introducing AuCl3 and benzyl viologen dopants. Unlike usual unipolar MoS2, the MoS2 p–n junctions show ambipolar carrier transport, current rectification via modulation of potential barrier in films thicker than 8 nm and reversed current rectification via tunnelling in films thinner than 8 nm. The ultimate thinness of the vertical p–n homogeneous junctions in MoS2 is experimentally found to be 3 nm, and the chemical doping depth is found to be 1.5 nm. The ultrathin MoS2 p–n junctions present a significant potential of the two-dimensional crystals for flexible, transparent, high-efficiency electronic and optoelectronic applications.
Microbial biofilms and the human intestinal microbiome
Authors: de Vos Willem M
Published: March 2015

Since early life we are colonised by a myriad of microbes that make up our microbiome. This colonisation process starts at birth or even before, when the virtually sterile baby encounters new microbial environments. It is likely that at this time or at later moments in life, microbial communities are met that have high-level structures with a temporal and spatial organisation, termed biofilms. This perspective will focus on these biofilms and the microbes in the intestinal tract as these are the most numerous in the human body, are found in luminal and mucosal locations, and have a great impact on human health and disease.
Sequence variants from whole genome sequencing a large group of Icelanders
Authors: Gudbjartsson Daniel F , Sulem Patrick , Helgason Hannes , Gylfason Arnaldur , Gudjonsson Sigurjon A , Zink Florian , Oddson Asmundur , Magnusson Gisli , Halldorsson Bjarni V , Hjartarson Eirikur , Sigurdsson Gunnar Th. , Kong Augustine , Helgason Agnar , Masson Gisli , Magnusson Olafur Th. , Thorsteinsdottir Unnur , Stefansson Kari
Published: March 2015

We have accumulated considerable data on the genetic makeup of the Icelandic population by sequencing the whole genomes of 2,636 Icelanders to depth of at least 10X and by chip genotyping 101,584 more. The sequencing was done with Illumina technology. The median sequencing depth was 20X and 909 individuals were sequenced to a depth of at least 30X. We found 20 million single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and 1.5 million insertions/deletions (indels) that passed stringent quality control. Almost all the common SNPs (derived allele frequency (DAF) over 2%) that we identified in Iceland have been observed by either dbSNP (build 137) or the Exome Sequencing Project (ESP) while only 60 and 20% of rare (DAF<0.5%) SNPs and indels in coding regions, the most heavily studied parts of the genome, have been observed in the public databases. Features of our variant data, such as the transition/transversion ratio and the length distribution of indels, are similar to published reports.
EphB2 activation is required for ependymoma development as well as inhibits differentiation and promotes proliferation of the transformed cell
Authors: Chen Phylip , Rossi Nathan , Priddy Samuel , Pierson Christopher R. , Studebaker Adam W. , Johnson Robert A.
Published: March 2015

Our intracranial implantation mouse model of ependymoma clearly demonstrates overexpression of the ephrin receptor EphB2 inInk4a/Arf(−/−)supratentorial embryonic neural stem cells (STeNSCs) to be essential for transformation and disease development; however the requirement for and consequence of receptor activation on transformation and neural stem cell function were not examined. We definitively illustrate the necessity for receptor activation in cellular transformation and the importance of implantation site and microenvironment in directing ependymoma development.In vitroassays of EphB2 overexpressingInk4a/Arf(−/−)STeNSCs showed no changes in their neural stem cell characteristics (stem cell marker expression and self-renewal) upon receptor activation, but EphB2 driven tumor cells were inhibited significantly in differentiation and exhibited increased tumorsphere formation and cellular proliferation in response to ephrin-B ligand mediated receptor activation. Additionally, we observed substantial differences in the phosphorylation state of several key proteins involved in Ras and p38 MAPK signaling when comparing EphB2 overexpressingInk4a/Arf(−/−)STeNSCs and tumor cells with relatively little change in total protein levels. We propose that EphB2 mediated ependymoma development is a multifactorial process requiring microenvironment directed receptor activation, resulting in changes in the phosphorylation status of key regulatory proteins, maintenance of a stem-like state and cellular proliferation.
Extraordinarily Adaptive Properties of the Genetically Encoded Amino Acids
Authors: Ilardo Melissa , Meringer Markus , Freeland Stephen , Rasulev Bakhtiyor , Cleaves II H. James
Published: March 2015

Using novel advances in computational chemistry, we demonstrate that the set of 20 genetically encoded amino acids, used nearly universally to construct all coded terrestrial proteins, has been highly influenced by natural selection. We defined an adaptive set of amino acids as one whose members thoroughly cover relevant physico-chemical properties, or “chemistry space.” Using this metric, we compared the encoded amino acid alphabet to random sets of amino acids. These random sets were drawn from a computationally generated compound library containing 1913 alternative amino acids that lie within the molecular weight range of the encoded amino acids. Sets that cover chemistry space better than the genetically encoded alphabet are extremely rare and energetically costly. Further analysis of more adaptive sets reveals common features and anomalies and we explore their implications for synthetic biology. We present these computations as evidence that the set of 20 amino acids found within the standard genetic code is the result of considerable natural selection. The amino acids used for constructing coded proteins may represent a largely global optimum, such that any aqueous biochemistry would use a very similar set.
Determination of the polarization states of an arbitrary polarized terahertz beam: Vectorial vortex analysis
Authors: Wakayama Toshitaka , Higashiguchi Takeshi , Oikawa Hiroki , Sakaue Kazuyuki , Washio Masakazu , Yonemura Motoki , Yoshizawa Toru , Tyo J. Scott , Otani Yukitoshi
Published: March 2015

Vectorial vortex analysis is used to determine the polarization states of an arbitrarily polarized terahertz (0.1–1.6 THz) beam using THz achromatic axially symmetric wave (TAS) plates, which have a phase retardance of Δ = 163° and are made of polytetrafluorethylene. Polarized THz beams are converted into THz vectorial vortex beams with no spatial or wavelength dispersion and the unknown polarization states of the incident THz beams are reconstructed. The polarization determination is also demonstrated at frequencies of 0.16 and 0.36 THz. The results obtained by solving the inverse source problem agree with the values used in the experiments. This vectorial vortex analysis enables a determination of the polarization states of the incident THz beam from the THz image. The polarization states of the beams are estimated after they pass through the TAS plates. The results validate this new approach to polarization detection for intense THz sources. It could find application in such cutting edge areas of physics as nonlinear THz photonics and plasmon excitation, because TAS plates not only instantaneously elucidate the polarization of an enclosed THz beam but can also passively control THz vectorial vortex beams.
Tunable Room Temperature THz Sources Based on Nonlinear Mixing in a Hybrid Optical and THz Micro-Ring Resonator
Authors: Sinha Raju , Karabiyik Mustafa , Al-Amin Chowdhury , Vabbina Phani K. , Güney Durdu Ö. , Pala Nezih
Published: March 2015

We propose and systematically investigate a novel tunable, compact room temperature terahertz (THz) source based on difference frequency generation in a hybrid optical and THz micro-ring resonator. We describe detailed design steps of the source capable of generating THz wave in 0.5–10 THz with a tunability resolution of 0.05 THz by using high second order optical susceptibility (χ(2)) in crystals and polymers. In order to enhance THz generation compared to bulk nonlinear material, we employ a nonlinear optical micro-ring resonator with high-Q resonant modes for infrared input waves. Another ring oscillator with the same outer radius underneath the nonlinear ring with an insulation of SiO2layer supports the generated THz with resonant modes and out-couples them into a THz waveguide. The phase matching condition is satisfied by engineering both the optical and THz resonators with appropriate effective indices. We analytically estimate THz output power of the device by using practical values of susceptibility in available crystals and polymers. The proposed source can enable tunable, compact THz emitters, on-chip integrated spectrometers, inspire a broader use of THz sources and motivate many important potential THz applications in different fields.
Brain self-regulation in criminal psychopaths
Authors: Konicar Lilian , Veit Ralf , Eisenbarth Hedwig , Barth Beatrix , Tonin Paolo , Strehl Ute , Birbaumer Niels
Published: March 2015

Psychopathic individuals are characterized by impaired affective processing, impulsivity, sensation-seeking, poor planning skills and heightened aggressiveness with poor self-regulation. Based on brain self-regulation studies using neurofeedback of Slow Cortical Potentials (SCPs) in disorders associated with a dysregulation of cortical activity thresholds and evidence of deficient cortical functioning in psychopathy, a neurobiological approach seems to be promising in the treatment of psychopathy. The results of our intensive brain regulation intervention demonstrate, that psychopathic offenders are able to gain control of their brain excitability over fronto-central brain areas. After SCP self-regulation training, we observed reduced aggression, impulsivity and behavioral approach tendencies, as well as improvements in behavioral-inhibition and increased cortical sensitivity for error-processing. This study demonstrates improvements on the neurophysiological, behavioral and subjective level in severe psychopathic offenders after SCP-neurofeedback training and could constitute a novel neurobiologically-based treatment for a seemingly change-resistant group of criminal psychopaths.
Evaluation of extraction kits and RT-qPCR systems adapted to high-throughput platform for circulating miRNAs
Authors: Tan Geok Wee , Khoo Alan Soo Beng , Tan Lu Ping
Published: March 2015

MicroRNAs regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. Differential expression of miRNAs can potentially be used as biomarkers for early diagnosis and prediction for outcomes. Failure in validation of miRNA profiles is often caused by variations in experimental parameters. In this study, the performance of five extraction kits and three RT-qPCR systems were evaluated using BioMark high-throughput platform and the effects of different experimental parameters on circulating miRNA levels were determined. Differences in the performance of extraction kits as well as varying accuracy, sensitivity and reproducibility in qPCR systems were observed. Normalisation of RT-qPCR data to spike-in controls can reduce extraction bias. However, the extent of correlation for different qPCR systems varies in different assays. At different time points, there was no significant fold change in eight of the plasma miRNAs that we evaluated. Higher level of miRNAs was detected in plasma as compared to serum of the same cohort. In summary, we demonstrated that high-throughput RT-qPCR with pre-amplification step had increased sensitivity and can be achieved with accuracy and high reproducibility through stringent experimental controls. The information provided here is useful for planning biomarker validation studies involving circulating miRNAs.
Reprogramming of orientation columns in visual cortex: a domino effect
Authors: Bachatene Lyes , Bharmauria Vishal , Cattan Sarah , Rouat Jean , Molotchnikoff Stéphane
Published: March 2015

Cortical organization rests upon the fundamental principle that neurons sharing similar properties are co-located. In the visual cortex, neurons are organized into orientation columns. In a column, most neurons respond optimally to the same axis of an oriented edge, that is, the preferred orientation. This orientation selectivity is believed to be absolute in adulthood. However, in a fully mature brain, it has been established that neurons change their selectivity following sensory experience or visual adaptation. Here, we show that after applying an adapter away from the tested cells, neurons whose receptive fields were located remotely from the adapted site also exhibit a novel selectivity in spite of the fact that they were not adapted. These results indicate a robust reconfiguration and remapping of the orientation domains with respect to each other thus removing the possibility of an orientation hole in the new hypercolumn. These data suggest that orientation columns transcend anatomy and are almost strictly functionally dynamic.
Transparent Organic Photodetector using a Near-Infrared Absorbing Cyanine Dye
Authors: Zhang Hui , Jenatsch Sandra , De Jonghe Jelissa , Nüesch Frank , Steim Roland , Véron Anna C. , Hany Roland
Published: March 2015

Organic photodetectors are interesting for low cost, large area optical sensing applications. Combining organic semiconductors with discrete absorption bands outside the visible wavelength range with transparent and conductive electrodes allows for the fabrication of visibly transparent photodetectors. Visibly transparent photodetectors can have far reaching impact in a number of areas including smart displays, window-integrated electronic circuits and sensors. Here, we demonstrate a near-infrared sensitive, visibly transparent organic photodetector with a very high average visible transmittance of 68.9%. The transmitted light of the photodetector under solar irradiation exhibits excellent transparency colour perception and rendering capabilities. At a wavelength of 850 nm and at −1 V bias, the photoconversion efficiency is 17% and the specific detectivity is 1012 Jones. Large area photodetectors with an area of 1.6 cm2 are demonstrated.
Bismuth Sulfide Nanoflowers for Detection of X-rays in the Mammographic Energy Range
Authors: Nambiar Shruti , Osei Ernest K. , Yeow John T. W.
Published: March 2015

The increased use of diagnostic x-rays, especially in the field of medical radiology, has necessitated a significant demand for high resolution, real-time radiation detectors. In this regard, the photoresponse of bismuth sulfide (Bi2S3), an n-type semiconducting metal chalcogenide, to low energy x-rays has been investigated in this study. In recent years, several types of nanomaterials of Bi2S3 have been widely studied for optoelectronic and thermoelectric applications. However, photoresponse of Bi2S3 nanomaterials for dosimetric applications has not yet been reported. The photosensitivity of Bi2S3 with nanoscale “flower-like” structures was characterized under x-ray tube-potentials typically used in mammographic procedures. Both dark current and photocurrent were measured under varying x-ray doses, field sizes and bias voltages for each of the tube potentials – 20, 23, 26 and 30 kV. Results show that the Bi2S3 nanoflowers instantaneously responded to even minor changes in the dose delivered. The photoresponse was found to be relatively high (few nA) at bias voltage as low as +1 V and fairly repeatable for both short and long exposures to mammographic x-rays with minimal or no loss in sensitivity. The overall dose-sensitivity of the Bi2S3 nanoflowers was found to be similar to that of a micro-ionization chamber.
Reversible Conversion of Dominant Polarity in Ambipolar Polymer/Graphene Oxide Hybrids
Authors: Zhou Ye , Han Su-Ting , Sonar Prashant , Ma Xinlei , Chen Jihua , Zheng Zijian , Roy V. A. L.
Published: March 2015

The possibility to selectively modulate the charge carrier transport in semiconducting materials is extremely challenging for the development of high performance and low-power consuming logic circuits. Systematical control over the polarity (electrons and holes) in transistor based on solution processed layer by layer polymer/graphene oxide hybrid system has been demonstrated. The conversion degree of the polarity is well controlled and reversible by trapping the opposite carriers. Basically, an electron device is switched to be a hole only device or vice versa. Finally, a hybrid layer ambipolar inverter is demonstrated in which almost no leakage of opposite carrier is found. This hybrid material has wide range of applications in planar p-n junctions and logic circuits for high-throughput manufacturing of printed electronic circuits.
A facile synthesis of fluorescent silver nanoclusters with human ferritin as a synthetic and interfacing ligand
Authors: Lee In Hwan , Ahn Byungjun , Lee Jeong Min , Lee Chang Soo , Jung Yongwon
Published: March 2015

Highly stable and copper-responsive fluorescent silver nanoclusters were assembled on human ferritin and retained the structure and function of the ferritin template as well as the fused binding protein.
Imprints of function on the folding landscape: functional role for an intermediate in a conserved eukaryotic binding protein
Authors: Munshi Sneha , Naganathan Athi N.
Published: March 2015

We present strong evidence that functional constraints leave everlasting imprints on the folding landscape of proteins that can be discerned through quantitative statistical mechanical modeling.
Versatile electronic properties and exotic edge states of single-layer tetragonal silicon carbides
Authors: Yang Chao , Xie Yuee , Liu Li-Min , Chen Yuanping
Published: March 2015

Three single-layer tetragonal silicon carbides (SiCs), termed as T1, T2 and T3, are proposed by density functional theory (DFT) computations.
One-pot catalytic asymmetric borylation of unsaturated aldehyde-derived imines; functionalisation to homoallylic boronate carboxylate ester derivatives
Authors: Pujol Alba , Calow Adam D. J. , Batsanov Andrei S. , Whiting Andrew
Published: March 2015

The β-borylation reaction of α,β-unsaturated aldehyde-derived imines, formedin situ, has been studied using a one-pot methodology, as a route to homoallylic boronates through the β-boryl aldehydes.
Amine functionalized tetraphenylethylene: a novel aggregation-induced emission based fluorescent chemodosimeter for nitrite and nitrate ions
Authors: Chatterjee Amrita , Khandare Dipratn G. , Saini Praveen , Chattopadhyay Anjan , Majik Mahesh S. , Banerjee Mainak
Published: March 2015

A novel AIE-based fluorescent probe for the detection of trace amounts of nitrite and nitrate ions in water has been developed, which spontaneously detects nitrites (or nitrates) by a fluorescence “turn-off” method.
Progress in low voltage reversible electrowetting with lubricated polymer honeycomb substrates
Authors: Bormashenko Edward , Pogreb Roman , Bormashenko Yelena , Aharoni Hadas , Shulzinger Evgeny , Grinev Roman , Rozenman Daniel , Rozenman Ziva
Published: March 2015

Electrowetting of silicone oil lubricated PC + EC substrates. (A)U= 0 V; (B)U= 55 V.
Layered ultrathin PbI2 single crystals for high sensitivity flexible photodetectors
Authors: Zhang Jiye , Song Tao , Zhang Zhaojun , Ding Kai , Huang Feng , Sun Baoquan
Published: March 2015

Ultrathin PbI2 single crystals for high sensitivity flexible photodetectors can be directly grown by virtue of their layered crystal structure.
Chemometric analysis of MALDI mass spectrometric images of three-dimensional cell culture systems
Authors: Weaver Eric M. , Hummon Amanda B. , Keithley Richard B.
Published: March 2015

As imaging mass spectrometry (IMS) has grown in popularity in recent years, the applications of this technique have become increasingly diverse.
Patterning of polymer brushes made easy using titanium dioxide: direct and remote photocatalytic lithography
Authors: Panzarasa G. , Soliveri G. , Sparnacci K. , Ardizzone S.
Published: March 2015

Titanium dioxide photocatalytic lithography of initiator functionalized surfaces is proved for the realization of micropatterned polymer brushes.
Piezochromic luminescence behaviors of two new benzothiazole–enamido boron difluoride complexes: intra- and inter-molecular effects induced by hydrostatic compression
Authors: Wang Xiaoqing , Liu Qingsong , Yan Hui , Liu Zhipeng , Yao Mingguang , Zhang Qingfu , Gong Shuwen , He Weijiang
Published: March 2015

The different piezochromic luminescence behaviors of two new boron difluoride complexes were investigated.
Bio-inspired CO2conversion by iron sulfide catalysts under sustainable conditions
Authors: Roldan A. , Hollingsworth N. , Roffey A. , Islam H.-U. , Goodall J. B. M. , Catlow C. R. A. , Darr J. A. , Bras W. , Sankar G. , Holt K. B. , Hogarth G. , de Leeuw N. H.
Published: March 2015

CO2conversion to small bio-molecules on greigite minerals under room temperature and pressure.
Physicochemical design and analysis of self-propelled objects that are characteristically sensitive to environments
Authors: Nakata Satoshi , Nagayama Masaharu , Kitahata Hiroyuki , Suematsu Nobuhiko J. , Hasegawa Takeshi
Published: March 2015

We review nonliving systems that behave like living matter by focusing on nonlinearity to enhance autonomy and the response of the system.
Spin transport properties in lower n-acene–graphene nanojunctions
Authors: Zou Dongqing , Cui Bin , Kong Xiangru , Zhao Wenkai , Zhao Jingfen , Liu Desheng
Published: March 2015

A series of n-acene–graphene (n = 3, 4, 5, 6) devices, in which n-acene molecules are sandwiched between two zigzag graphene nanoribbon (ZGNR) electrodes, are modeled through the spin polarized density functional theory combined with the non-equilibrium Green's function technique.
Crystal structures, phase transitions, and switchable dielectric behaviors: comparison of a series of N-heterocyclic ammonium perchlorates
Authors: Shi Ping-Ping , Ye Qiong , Li Qiang , Wang Hui-Ting , Fu Da-Wei , Zhang Yi , Xiong Ren-Gen
Published: March 2015

1-Propyl-1-methylpiperidinium, 1-cyanomethyl-1-methylpiperidinium and 1-cyanomethyl-1-methylmorpholinium perchlorates display switchable dielectric responses accompanied by phase transitions at around 199, 387 and 416 K, respectively.
A functional ruthenium(ii) complex for imaging biothiols in living bodies
Authors: Ye Zhiqiang , Gao Quankun , An Xin , Song Bo , Yuan Jingli
Published: March 2015

A functional ruthenium(ii) complex that can act as a luminescent probe for imaging biothiols in living bodies has been successfully developed.
Preparation of pyranylidene complexes of ruthenium
Authors: Albertin Gabriele , Antoniutti Stefano , Bortoluzzi Marco , Botter Alessandra , Castro Jesús
Published: March 2015

Dimerization of alkylpropiolate on the half-sandwich fragment [Ru(η5-C5H5)(PPh3){P(OMe)3}]+ affords pyranylidene derivatives.
An ytterbium complex with unique luminescence properties: detecting the temperature based on a luminescence spectrum without the interference of oxygen
Authors: Tang Minxian , Huang Yanjie , Wang Yuan , Fu Limin
Published: March 2015

[Yb(tta)3DFQZ] exhibits improved two-photon-sensitized NIR-luminescence properties and thermally enhanced Yb3+ luminescence, and enables the detection of temperature without O2 influence.
Two phosphaalkene radical cations with inverse spin density distributions
Authors: Pan Xiaobo , Wang Xingyong , Zhang Zaichao , Wang Xinping
Published: March 2015

Two phosphaalkene radical cations have been made by using a weakly coordinating anion, and they exhibit inverse spin density distributions.
Synthesis and structure of Ag(i), Pd(ii), Rh(i), Ru(ii) and Au(i) NHC-complexes with a pendant Lewis acidic boronic ester moiety
Authors: Toure Momar , Chuzel Olivier , Parrain Jean-Luc
Published: March 2015

Synthesis and characterization of novel NHC-boronic ester ligands and their corresponding TM-complexes.
Layered MoS2nanoparticles on TiO2nanotubes by a photocatalytic strategy for use as high-performance electrocatalysts in hydrogen evolution reactions
Authors: Meng Chenhui , Liu Zhaoyue , Zhang Tierui , Zhai Jin
Published: March 2015

A photocatalytic strategy was developed to fabricate high-performance MoS2nanoparticulate electrodes using anodized TiO2nanotubes as a photocatalyst.
Nucleophilic fluorination using imidazolium based ionic liquid bearing tert-alcohol moiety
Authors: Shinde Sandip S. , Patil Sunil N. , Ghatge Amruta , Kumar Pradeep
Published: March 2015

An ionic liquid bearing tert-butanol moiety ([mim-tOH][OMs]) was employed as catalyst in the nucleophilic fluorination of 2-(3-bromopropyloxy)-naphthalene using alkali metal fluorides.
Robust Ag nanoplate ink for flexible electronics packaging
Authors: Li Ruo-Zhou , Hu Anming , Bridges Denzel , Zhang Tong , Oakes Ken D. , Peng Rui , Tumuluri Uma , Wu Zili , Feng Zhili
Published: March 2015

We develop an innovative bonding using Ag nanoplates via photonic sintering with enhanced mechanical strength and anisotropic resistivity.
Electronic transport in benzodifuran single-molecule transistors
Authors: Xiang An , Li Hui , Chen Songjie , Liu Shi-Xia , Decurtins Silvio , Bai Meilin , Hou Shimin , Liao Jianhui
Published: March 2015

Benzodifuran (BDF) single-molecule transistors have been fabricated in electromigration break junctions for electronic measurements to address the issues of the energy level alignment, the coupling between the molecules and the electrodes, and the gating effects.
Dual side chain control in the synthesis of novel sequence-defined oligomers through the Ugi four-component reaction
Authors: Solleder Susanne C. , Wetzel Katharina S. , Meier Michael A. R.
Published: March 2015

The synthesis of sequence-defined oligomers by the iterative application of the modular Ugi four-component reaction (U-4CR) and the efficient thiol–ene addition reaction is described.
Utilizing low ZIF-8 loading for an asymmetric PSf/ZIF-8 mixed matrix membrane for CO2/CH4 separation
Authors: Md. Nordin Nik Abdul Hadi , Ismail Ahmad Fauzi , Mustafa Azeman , Murali R. Surya , Matsuura Takeshi
Published: March 2015

Illustration of gas permeation across different zif-8 loading in asymmetric membrane.
Photodegradation of Rhodamine B over Ag modified ferroelectric BaTiO3 under simulated solar light: pathways and mechanism
Authors: Cui Yongfei , Goldup Stephen M. , Dunn Steve
Published: March 2015

Reaction mechanism for RhB degradation over a self-polarised semiconductor, BaTiO3.
Multimodal theranostic nanomaterials derived from phthalocyanine-based organic salt
Authors: Das Susmita , Magut Paul K. S. , Zhao Lijie , Hasan Farhana , Karki Amar B. , Jin Rongying , Warner Isiah M.
Published: March 2015

This study represents a one pot simplistic approach towards development of multimodal theranostic nanomaterials.
Synergistic catalysis by gold nanoparticles and metal ions for enhanced chemiluminescence
Authors: Sharma Richa , Ragavan K. V. , Abhijith K. S. , Akanksha Akanksha , Thakur M. S.
Published: March 2015

The first report of individual and synergistic roles of alkali metal ions and gold nanoparticles in the enhancement of luminol-Urea–H2O2 chemiluminescence. A maximum of 600% increase over control was evident for NaCl in synergy with gold nanoparticles.
Controlled in situ synthesis of graphene oxide/zeolitic imidazolate framework composites with enhanced CO2 uptake capacity
Authors: Chen Binling , Zhu Yanqiu , Xia Yongde
Published: March 2015

Novel GO–ZIF-8 composites synthesized via controlled in situ method exhibit enhanced CO2 uptake capacity due to the synergistic effect.
Low-temperature synthesis of ribbon-like orthorhombic NaNbO3 fibers and their photocatalytic activities for H2 evolution
Authors: Zhang Deqing , Cheng Junye , Shi Feng , Cheng Zhangjie , Yang Xiuying , Cao Maosheng
Published: March 2015

Ribbon-like orthorhombic NaNbO3 fibers were successfully prepared by combining a traditional hydrothermal method with post-heat treatment at a low annealing temperature.
Binder-free hydrogenated NiO–CoO hybrid electrodes for high performance supercapacitors
Authors: Yang Mingyang , Lv Fucong , Wang Zhenyu , Xiong Yiqiu , Li Minchan , Wang Wenxi , Zhang Lihua , Wu Sisi , Liu Hongtao , Gu Yingying , Lu Zhouguang
Published: March 2015

Three-dimensional bind-free hydrogenated NiO–CoO hybrid electrodes were prepared and exhibited superior electrochemical performance for supercapacitors.
Large-scale synthesis and characterization of super-bundle single-walled carbon nanotubes by water-assisted chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Zhao Yu , Choi Jihoon , Kim Paul , Fei Weidong , Lee Cheol Jin
Published: March 2015

A large-scale synthesis of water-assisted super-bundle single-walled carbon nanotubes was investigated by catalytic chemical vapor deposition. The product yield dramatically improved from 40 to 206 wt%.
Direct synthesis of hybrid layered double hydroxide–carbon composites supported Pd nanocatalysts efficient in selective hydrogenation of citral
Authors: Han Ruirui , Nan Chunshi , Yang Lan , Fan Guoli , Li Feng
Published: March 2015

A facile route for the synthesis of hybrid layered double hydroxide–carbon composites supported Pd nanocatalysts efficient in the selective hydrogenation of citral.
Synthesis of 1,2,4,5-tetrasubstituted imidazoles using 2,6-dimethylpyridinium trinitromethanide {[2,6-DMPyH]C(NO2)3} as a novel nanostructured molten salt and green catalyst
Authors: Zolfigol Mohammad Ali , Baghery Saeed , Moosavi-Zare Ahmad Reza , Vahdat Seyed Mohammad
Published: March 2015

2,6-Dimethylpyridinium trinitromethanide {[2,6-DMPyH]C(NO2)3} as a novel nanostructured molten salt catalyst (MS) was synthesized, characterized and used for the synthesis of 1,2,4,5-tetrasubstituted imidazoles under solvent-free conditions.
A BODIPY-based fluorescent probe for the differential recognition of Hg(ii) and Au(iii) ions
Authors: Cantürk Ceren , Üçüncü Muhammed , Emrullahoğlu Mustafa
Published: March 2015

Differential detection of Hg(ii) and Au(iii) ions via different fluorescence emission modes.
Large-scale synthesis and activation of polygonal carbon nanofibers with thin ribbon-like structures for supercapacitor electrodes
Authors: He Pingge , Liu Lei , Song Weixin , Xiong Guoping , Fisher Timothy S. , Chen Tengfei
Published: March 2015

Polygonal carbon nanofibers are activated by KOH with thin ribbon-like nanosheets for application in supercapacitor electrodes, performing favorable electrochemical properties.
Acid Orange II degradation through a heterogeneous Fenton-like reaction using Fe–TiO2 nanotube arrays as a photocatalyst
Authors: Su Yufeng , Wu Zhi , Wu Yongneng , Yu Jiangdong , Sun Lan , Lin Changjian
Published: March 2015

A heterogeneous Fenton-like process using an Fe–TiO2 NTA photocatalyst in the presence of H2O2 was investigated and an obvious synergistic effect was achieved.
Non-precious cobalt oxalate microstructures as highly efficient electrocatalysts for oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Liu Xiaomin , Jiang Jing , Ai Lunhong
Published: March 2015

CoC2O4·2H2O microstructures as nonprecious metal-based electrocatalysts exhibited remarkable activity for catalyzing OER in alkaline medium.
Self-assembled targeted folate-conjugated eight-arm-polyethylene glycol–betulinic acid nanoparticles for co-delivery of anticancer drugs
Authors: Dai Lin , Cao Xin , Liu Ke-Feng , Li Chun-Xiao , Zhang Gui-Feng , Deng Li-Hong , Si Chuan-Ling , He Jing , Lei Jian-Du
Published: March 2015

Folate-8arm-PEG–betulinic acid nanoparticles prepared via a self-assembly process are stable in circulation, resulting in the EPR effect of solid tumors, and are efficiently internalized by cancer cells.
Bigels formed via spinodal decomposition of unfolded protein
Authors: Blumlein Alice , McManus Jennifer J.
Published: March 2015

A bigel network, composed of a percolated particle gel formed by spinodal decomposition of unfolded BSA and a discrete but interpenetrating network of gelatin, has been formed. The bigel has significantly enhanced mechanical strength compared with either of the individual components, which is derived from the synergistic interactions between networks.
Hydrophobic graphene nanosheets decorated by monodispersed superparamagnetic Fe3O4 nanocrystals as synergistic electromagnetic wave absorbers
Authors: Zheng Xinliang , Feng Juan , Zong Yan , Miao Hui , Hu Xiaoyun , Bai Jintao , Li Xinghua
Published: March 2015

Superparamagnetic Fe3O4 nanocrystals anchored on hydrophobic graphene nanosheets are prepared and are shown to act as synergistic electromagnetic wave absorbers with good stability.
Naphthodithiophenediimide (NDTI)-based triads for high-performance air-stable, solution-processed ambipolar organic field-effect transistors
Authors: Hu Jian-Yong , Nakano Masahiro , Osaka Itaru , Takimiya Kazuo
Published: March 2015

We report new NDTI-based triad-type ambipolar molecular semiconductors for high-performance air-stable, solution-processed OFETs and complementary-like inverters.
Identification and quantification of biomarkers to confirm the poisoning by Ginkgo biloba seeds in a 2-year-old boy
Authors: Lorenzo Chiara Di , Ceschi Alessandro , Colombo Francesca , Frigerio Gianfranco , Bianchetti Mario G. , Lüde Saskia , von Dechend Margot , Valoti Ermanno , Restani Patrizia
Published: March 2015

Ginkgo seed poisoning was confirmed by measuring 4′-O-methyl pyridoxine (MPN) as a serum biomarkers. Picture shows the kinetic of MPN at 14 (B) and 20 (C) hours from intake.
Cell culture arrays using micron-sized ferromagnetic ring-shaped thin films
Authors: Huang Chen-Yu , Lai Mei-Feng , Ger Tzong-Rong , Wei Zung-Hang
Published: March 2015

Cell patterning has become an important technology for tissue engineering. In this research, domain walls are formed at the two ends of a ferromagnetic ring thin film after applying a strong external magnetic field, which can effectively attract magnetically labeled cells and control the position for biological cell. Magnetophoresis experiment was conducted to quantify the magnetic nanoparticle inside the cells. A ring-shaped magnetic thin films array was fabricated through photolithography. It is observed that magnetically labeled cells can be successfully attracted to the two ends of the ring-shaped magnetic thin film structure and more cells were attracted and further attached to the structures. The cells are co-cultured with the structure and kept proliferating; therefore, such ring thin film can be an important candidate for in-vitro biomedical chips or tissue engineering.
Embryo formation from low sperm concentration by using dielectrophoretic force
Authors: Huang Hong-Yuan , Huang Yu-Hsuan , Kao Wei-Lun , Yao Da-Jeng
Published: March 2015

A biochip system imitates the oviduct of mammals with a microfluidic channel to achieve fertilization in vitro of imprinting-control-region (ICR) mice. We apply a method to manipulate and to position the oocyte and the sperm of ICR mice at the same time in our microfluidic channel with a positive dielectrophoretic (DEP) force. The positive dielectrophoretic response of the oocyte and sperm was exhibited under applied bias conditions AC 10 Vpp waveform, 1 MHz, 10 min. With this method, the concentration of sperm in the vicinity of the oocyte was increased and enhanced the probability of natural fertilization. We used commercial numerical software (CFDRC-ACE+) to simulate the square of the electric field and analyzed the location at which the oocyte and sperm are trapped. The microfluidic devices were designed and fabricated with poly(dimethylsiloxane). The results of our experiments indicate that a positive DEP served to drive the position of the oocyte and the sperm to natural fertilization (average rate of fertilization 51.58%) in our microchannel structures at insemination concentration 1.5 × 106 sperm ml−1. Embryos were cultured to two cells after 24 h and four cells after 48 h.