bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chemoprevention of Colonic Aberrant Crypt Foci by Novel Schiff Based Dichlorido(4-Methoxy-2-{[2-(Piperazin-4-Ium-1-Yl)Ethyl]Iminomethyl}Phenolate)Cd Complex in Azoxymethane-Induced Colorectal Cancer in Rats
Authors: Hajrezaie Maryam , Shams Keivan , Moghadamtousi Soheil Zorofchian , Karimian Hamed , Hassandarvish Pouya , Emtyazjoo Mozhgan , Zahedifard Maryam , Majid Nazia Abdul , Ali Hapipah Mohd , Abdulla Mahmood Ameen
Published: July 2015

Schiff-based complexes as a source of cancer chemotherapeutic compounds have been subjected to the variety of anticancer studies. The in-vitro analysis confirmed the CdCl2(C14H21N3O2) complex possess cytotoxicity and apoptosis induction properties in colon cancer cells, so lead to investigate the inhibitory efficiency of the compound on colonic aberrant crypt foci (ACF). Five groups of adult male rats were used in this study: Vehicle, cancer control, positive control groups and the groups treated with 25 and 50 mg/kg of complex for 10 weeks. The rats in vehicle group were injected subcutaneously with 15 mg/kg of sterile normal saline once a week for 2 weeks and orally administered with 5% Tween-20 (5 ml/kg) for 10 weeks, other groups were injected subcutaneously with 15 mg/kg azoxymethane once a week for 2 weeks. The rats in positive groups were injected intra-peritoneally with 35 mg/kg 5-Flourouracil four times in a month. Administration of the complex suppressed total colonic ACF formation up to 73.4% (P < 0.05). The results also showed that treatment with the complex significantly reduced the level of malondialdehyde while increasing superoxide dismutase and catalase activities. Furthermore, the down-regulation of PCNA and Bcl2 and the up-regulation of Bax was confirmed by immunohistochemical staining.
One-dimensional porous nanofibers of Co3O4 on the carbon matrix from human hair with superior lithium ion storage performance
Authors: Tan Yanli , Gao Qiuming , Yang Chunxiao , Yang Kai , Tian Weiqian , Zhu Lihua
Published: July 2015

One-dimensional (1D) hierarchical porous nanofibers of Co3O4 possessing of (220) facets on the carbon matrix from human hair (H2@Co3O4) with 20–30 nm in width and 3–5 μm in length are prepared by a facile solvothermal and calcination approach. The well crystallized small Co3O4 particles with the diameter of about 8–12 nm were closely aggregated together in the nanofibers. Electrochemical analyses show that the first discharge capacity of H2@Co3O4 electrode is 1368 mAh g−1 at the current density of 0.1 A g−1 based on the total mass of composite. A high reversible capacity of 916 mAh g −1 was obtained over 100 cycles at 0.1 A g−1, presenting a good cycling stability. When cycled at a high current density of 1 and 2 A g−1, the specific capacity of 659 and 573 mAh g−1 could be still achieved, respectively, indicating a superior power capability.
Integrated genomic approaches identify major pathways and upstream regulators in late onset Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Li Xinzhong , Long Jintao , He Taigang , Belshaw Robert , Scott James
Published: July 2015

Previous studies have evaluated gene expression in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) brains to identify mechanistic processes, but have been limited by the size of the datasets studied. Here we have implemented a novel meta-analysis approach to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in published datasets comprising 450 late onset AD (LOAD) brains and 212 controls. We found 3124 DEGs, many of which were highly correlated with Braak stage and cerebral atrophy. Pathway Analysis revealed the most perturbed pathways to be (a) nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species in macrophages (NOROS), (b) NFkB and (c) mitochondrial dysfunction. NOROS was also up-regulated and mitochondrial dysfunction down-regulated, in healthy ageing subjects. Upstream regulator analysis predicted the TLR4 ligands, STAT3 and NFKBIA, for activated pathways and RICTOR for mitochondrial genes. Protein-protein interaction network analysis emphasised the role of NFKB; identified a key interaction of CLU with complement; and linked TYROBP, TREM2 and DOK3 to modulation of LPS signalling through TLR4 and to phosphatidylinositol metabolism. We suggest that NEUROD6, ZCCHC17, PPEF1 and MANBAL are potentially implicated in LOAD, with predicted links to calcium signalling and protein mannosylation. Our study demonstrates a highly injurious combination of TLR4-mediated NFKB signalling, NOROS inflammatory pathway activation and mitochondrial dysfunction in LOAD.
A Novel Bio-carrier Fabricated Using 3D Printing Technique for Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Dong Yang , Fan Shu-Qian , Shen Yu , Yang Ji-Xiang , Yan Peng , Chen You-Peng , Li Jing , Guo Jin-Song , Duan Xuan-Ming , Fang Fang , Liu Shao-Yang
Published: July 2015

The structure of bio-carriers is one of the key operational characteristics of a biofilm reactor. The goal of this study is to develop a series of novel fullerene-type bio-carriers using the three-dimensional printing (3DP) technique. 3DP can fabricate bio-carriers with more specialized structures compared with traditional fabrication processes. In this research, three types of fullerene-type bio-carriers were fabricated using the 3DP technique and then compared with bio-carrier K3 (from AnoxKaldnes) in the areas of physicochemical properties and biofilm growth. Images acquired by 3D profiling and SEM indicated that the surface roughness of the 3DP bio-carrier was greater than that of K3. Furthermore, contact angle data indicated that the 3DP bio-carriers were more hydrophilic than K3. The biofilm on the 3DP bio-carriers exhibited higher microbial activity and stronger adhesion ability. These findings were attributed to excellent mass transfer of the substrate (and oxygen) between the vapour-liquid-solid tri-phase system and to the surface characteristics. It is concluded that the novel 3DP fullerene-type bio-carriers are ideal carriers for biofilm adherence and growth.
Application of Chan-Lam cross coupling for the synthesis of N-heterocyclic carbene precursors bearing strong electron donating or withdrawing groups
Authors: Huang Liliang , He Chengxiang , Sun Zhihua
Published: July 2015

Chan-Lam cross coupling allowed efficient synthesis of N,N’-disubstituted ortho-phenylene diamines bearing strong electron donating or withdrawing groups, such as nitro or methoxy groups, with moderate to high yields. These diamines can then be turned into N-heterocyclic carbene precursors after condensation with trimethyl orthoformate. The same strategy can also be utilized for the synthesis of N-monosubstituted aniline derivatives containing a functionalized ortho-aminomethyl group as intermediates for chiral 6-membered ring carbene precursors.
A rapid capillary electrophoresis method with LED-induced native fluorescence detection for the analysis of cannabinoids in oral fluid
Authors: Mazina Jekaterina , Spiljova Anastassija , Vaher Merike , Kaljurand Mihkel , Kulp Maria
Published: July 2015

In the present study, a capillary electrophoresis method with native fluorescence detection for the quantification of two main marijuana cannabinoids, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), in oral fluid is described.
A neutral low-coordinate heterocyclic bismuth-tin species
Authors: Hering-Junghans C. , Schulz A. , Villinger A.
Published: July 2015

The reaction of cyclodistannadiazane with an excess of antimonytrichloride led to the formation of tetrachlorodistibanes, while in the reaction with bismuthtrichloride a carbenoid bismuth species was obtained which can be regarded as a heavy atom analog of NHCs.
Mismatched changes of the photoluminescence and crystalline structure of a mechanochromic gold(i) isocyanide complex
Authors: Seki Tomohiro , Sakurada Kenta , Ito Hajime
Published: July 2015

The mechanochromic compound1forms green-emitting crystals (1g) and blue-emitting crystals (1b) that exhibit two intriguing responses to mechanical stimulation.
Low-valent iron: an Fe(i) ate compound as a building block for a linear trinuclear Fe cluster
Authors: Lichtenberg C. , Viciu L. , Vogt M. , Rodríguez-Lugo R. E. , Adelhardt M. , Sutter J. , Khusniyarov M. M. , Meyer K. , de Bruin B. , Bill E. , Grützmacher H.
Published: July 2015

A low-valent, linear, trinuclear iron cluster was synthesized from a new Fe(i) ate compound with a redox-active diazadiene-diolefin ligand and fully characterized.
Quantum dot-imprinted polymers with size and shell-selective recognition properties
Authors: Gam-Derrouich S. , Bourdillon C. , Daney De Marcillac W. , Coolen L. , Maître A. , Mangeney C. , Schwob C.
Published: July 2015

Bulk quantum dots imprinted polymers were designed for the detection and speciation of nanoparticles based on their size, shape and surface chemistry. Their recognition ability was demonstrated by photoluminescence spectroscopy.
How does relativity affect magnetically induced currents?
Authors: Berger R. J. F. , Repisky M. , Komorovsky S.
Published: July 2015

Relativity contributes via induced spin-density to magnetically induced currents (jB) in closed-shell systems and in general enhances curvature in jB.
Probing the mechanism of CO2 capture in diamine-appended metal–organic frameworks using measured and simulated X-ray spectroscopy
Authors: Drisdell Walter S. , Poloni Roberta , McDonald Thomas M. , Pascal Tod A. , Wan Liwen F. , Pemmaraju C. Das , Vlaisavljevich Bess , Odoh Samuel O. , Neaton Jeffrey B. , Long Jeffrey R. , Prendergast David , Kortright Jeffrey B.
Published: July 2015

In situ X-ray absorption spectroscopy, coupled with DFT calculations, uncovers the details of the novel mechanism for CO2 adsorption in diamine-appended metal–organic frameworks.
Multifunctional π-expanded oligothiophene macrocycles
Authors: Iyoda Masahiko , Shimizu Hideyuki
Published: July 2015

π-Expanded oligothiophene macrocycles show electronic, optical, and optoelectronic properties as well as unique supramolecular self-assembly and morphological changes.
Liquid phase oxidation chemistry in continuous-flow microreactors
Authors: Gemoets Hannes P. L. , Su Yuanhai , Shang Minjing , Hessel Volker , Luque Rafael , Noël Timothy
Published: July 2015

This review gives an exhaustive overview of the engineering principles, safety aspects and chemistry associated with liquid phase oxidation in continuous-flow microreactors.
meso-2′-Linked porphyrin–BODIPY hybrids: synthesis and efficient excitation energy transfer
Authors: Hu Qin-Qin , Zhu Yi-Zhou , Zhang Shao-Chun , Tong Yu-Zhang , Zheng Jian-Yu
Published: July 2015

Three meso-2′-linked porphyrin–BODIPY hybrids (BDP–ZnP, 2BDP–ZnP, and 4BDP–ZnP) were synthesized, and fast and highly efficient energy transfer was achieved.
Fluoride solid electrolytes: investigation of the tysonite-type solid solutions La1−xBaxF3−x (x < 0.15)
Authors: Chable Johann , Dieudonné Belto , Body Monique , Legein Christophe , Crosnier-Lopez Marie-Pierre , Galven Cyrille , Mauvy Fabrice , Durand Etienne , Fourcade Sébastien , Sheptyakov Denis , Leblanc Marc , Maisonneuve Vincent , Demourgues Alain
Published: July 2015

La1−xBaxF3−x solid solutions for x < 0.15 were prepared by solid state synthesis in a platinum tube under an nitrogen atmosphere with subsequent quenching for 0.07 ≤ x < 0.15.
Tandem hydrogenation and condensation of fluorinated α,β-unsaturated ketones with primary amines, catalyzed by nickel
Authors: Castellanos-Blanco Nahury , Flores-Alamo Marcos , García Juventino J.
Published: July 2015

A simple homogeneous catalytic system based on nickel phosphine complexes has been developed for the transfer hydrogenation and condensation of α,β-unsaturated ketones to yield saturated ones and saturated imines using primary amines as hydrogen donors.
Novel phenanthroline–diaryldiazadiene ligands with heteroditopic coordination spheres
Authors: Sorsche Dieter , Pehlken Christian , Baur Christian , Rommel Sebastian , Kastner Katharina , Streb Carsten , Rau Sven
Published: July 2015

Twisted and colorful: the two first derivatives of the potential N4 bridging ligand scaffold 1,10-phenanthroline-5,6-diaryldiazadiene and a first, selectively phenanthroline coordinated iridium(iii) complex present themselves with distinct electronic and structural peculiarities.
Lanthanide mixed-ligand complexes of the [Ln(CAPh)3(Phen)] and [LaxEu1−x(CAPh)3(Phen)] (CAPh = carbacylamidophosphate) type. A comparative study of their spectral properties
Authors: Litsis Olena O. , Ovchynnikov Vladimir A. , Scherbatskii Vasyl P. , Nedilko Sergiy G. , Sliva Tatiana Yu. , Dyakonenko Viktoriya V. , Shishkin Oleg V. , Davydov Valentine I. , Gawryszewska Paula , Amirkhanov Vladimir M.
Published: July 2015

La–Eu substitution affects the LnPip3Phen properties.
A high-performance sandwiched-porous polybenzimidazole membrane with enhanced alkaline retention for anion exchange membrane fuel cells
Authors: Zeng L. , Zhao T. S. , An L. , Zhao G. , Yan X. H.
Published: July 2015

Polybenzimidazole (PBI)-based membrane electrode assemblies are fabricated with a sandwiched-porous PBI as the membrane and a new catalyst structure using PBI-decorated reduced graphene oxide as the supporting material for anion exchange membrane fuel cells.
An enhanced method for molybdenum separation and isotopic determination in uranium-rich materials and geological samples
Authors: Migeon Valérie , Bourdon Bernard , Pili Eric , Fitoussi Caroline
Published: July 2015

A three-stage ion exchange chromatography method to purify molybdenum from uranium-rich samples was developed. Mo isotopic compositions were analyzed with a Neptune Plus MC-ICP-MS at ∼1200 volt ppm−1.
Plasma metabolic signatures reveal the regulatory effect of exercise training in db/db mice
Authors: Xiang L. , Cheang W. S. , Lin S. H. , Wang L. , Li Y. L. , Huang Y. , Cai Z. W.
Published: July 2015

Regulatory effect of moderate exercise training on fatty acid oxidation.
Investigating the generation of hydrogen sulfide from the phosphonamidodithioate slow-release donor GYY4137
Authors: Alexander Benjamin E. , Coles Simon J. , Fox Bridget C. , Khan Tahmina F. , Maliszewski Joseph , Perry Alexis , Pitak Mateusz B. , Whiteman Matthew , Wood Mark E.
Published: July 2015

A two-step hydrolytic decomposition pathway has been elucidated for the slow-release hydrogen sulfide donor GYY4137.
Antibacterial activities of polythionates enhanced by carbonates
Authors: Li Guofang , Zhao Yanbao , Li Ping , Zhang Fuqiang , Qu Peng , Li Binjie , Gao Qingyu , Wang Shaorong
Published: July 2015

The antibacterial activity of polythionates enhanced by carbonates is related to the formation of active sulfur from the decomposition of polythionates.
New air-stable uranium(iv) complexes with enhanced volatility
Authors: Leduc Jennifer , Ravithas Rajitha , Rathgeber Lisa , Mathur Sanjay
Published: July 2015

New volatile uranium(iv) complexes using a heteroarylalkenolate with an elongated fluoroalkyl chain and a tetradentate enaminone as ligands are reported.
Arsenate removal from contaminated water by a highly adsorptive nanocomposite ultrafiltration membrane
Authors: Gohari Rasoul Jamshidi , Lau Woei Jye , Halakoo Elnaz , Ismail Ahmad Fauzi , Korminouri Fatemeh , Matsuura Takeshi , Jamshidi Gohari Mohammad Saleh , Chowdhury Md. Najmul Kabir
Published: July 2015

This novel adsorptive nanocomposite ultrafiltration membrane is effective in removing arsenate (As(v)) from water sources for drinking water production.
Catalytic intramolecular carbonyl–ene reaction with ketones: evidence for a retro–ene process
Authors: Tremel P. , Iacobucci C. , Massi L. , Olivero S. , Gal J.-F. , Duñach E.
Published: July 2015

The ene and reverse ene-processes occur with ketones, as shown by control experiments and by ESI-MS analysis.
Influence of substitution pattern and enhanced π-conjugation on a family of thiophene functionalized 1,5-dithia-2,4,6,8-tetrazocines
Authors: Magnan François , Korobkov Ilia , Brusso Jaclyn
Published: July 2015

The versatile, one-pot synthesis of a series of π-extended 1,5,2,4,6,8-dithiatetrazocines is described, along with their optoelectronic and structural properties.
Polyaniline–nanodiamond fibers resulting from the self-assembly of nano-fibrils: a nanomechanical study
Authors: Passeri Daniele , Tamburri Emanuela , Terranova Maria Letizia , Rossi Marco
Published: July 2015

Nanomechanical characterization of micrometric fibers of polyaniline (PANI) doped with nanodiamond (ND) particles resulting from the self-assembling of PANI/ND nano-fibrils has been performed using torsional harmonics atomic force microscopy.
Au nanoparticle scaffolds modulating intermolecular interactions among the conjugated azobenzenes chemisorbed on curved surfaces: tuning the kinetics of cis–trans isomerisation
Authors: Raimondo Corinna , Kenens Bart , Reinders Federica , Mayor Marcel , Uji-i Hiroshi , Samorì Paolo
Published: July 2015

π–π Intermolecular interactions among the adjacent conjugated azobenzenes chemisorbed on (non-)flat Au surfaces can be tuned by varying the curvature of the Au nanoparticles.
Synthesis of fully protected, reverse N-prenylated (2S,3R)-3-hydroxytryptophan, a unique building block of the cyclomarins
Authors: Barbie Philipp , Kazmaier Uli
Published: July 2015

The rather exotic amino acid of the cyclomarins, is obtained in enantio- and diastereomerically pure and fully protected form.
Thermoregulated phase transfer catalysis in aqueous/organic biphasic system: facile and highly efficient ATRP catalyst separation and recycling in situ using typical alkyl halide as initiator
Authors: Jiang Xiaowu , Luo Yanjing , Li Zhen , Zhang Lifen , Cheng Zhenping , Zhu Xiulin
Published: July 2015

An important development of TRPTC-based ICAR ATRP for metal catalyst separation and recycling in an aqueous/organic biphasic system was achieved with alkyl halide as the initiator for the first time.
Graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide hybrids with spin crossover iron(iii) complexes
Authors: Murashima Yusuke , Karim Mohammad Razaul , Saigo Naoto , Takehira Hiroshi , Ohtani Ryo , Nakamura Masaaki , Koinuma Michio , Lindoy Leonard F. , Kuroiwa Keita , Hayami Shinya
Published: July 2015

Graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide hybrids with spin crossover complexes show the coexistence of electron conduction and unique magnetic behaviors.
Synthesis of Passerini adducts from aldehydes and isocyanides under the auxiliary of water
Authors: Li Ming , Qiu Bin , Kong Xiang-Jing , Wen Li-Rong
Published: July 2015

An efficient protocol for the synthesis of the Passerini adducts α-acyloxycarboxamides from aldehydes, isocyanides and water in a molecular ratio of 3 : 1 : 3 was described.
A comparative analysis of a TiO2nanoparticle dispersion in various biological extracts
Authors: Yadav Tushar , Mungray Alka A. , Mungray Arvind K.
Published: July 2015

Chemical surfactants are used for efficient dispersion of nanoparticles (NPs) but they also cause a hazard to the environment.
Nickel clusters grown on three-dimensional graphene oxide–multi-wall carbon nanotubes as an electrochemical sensing platform for luteolin at the picomolar level
Authors: Yang Taotao , Gao Yansha , Xu Jingkun , Lu Limin , Yao Yuanyuan , Wang Zifei , Zhu Xiaofei , Xing Huakun
Published: July 2015

This study focuses on enhancing the catalytic activity of metallic Ni by using 1D MWCNTs, 2D GO and GR, and 3D GO–MWCNTs as supporting matrixs for the fabrication of electrochemical sensor for detecting the flavonoid luteolin.
The antihyperlipidemic effect of Fu-Ling-Pi is associated with abnormal fatty acid metabolism as assessed by UPLC-HDMS-based lipidomics
Authors: Miao Hua , Li Ming-Hua , Zhang Xu , Yuan Sheng-Jun , Ho Charlene C. , Zhao Ying-Yong
Published: July 2015

The surface layer ofPoria cocos(SLPC), a traditional Chinese medicine, has been commonly used for diuretic and antihyperlipidemia in Asia.
A novel phenylacetylene-indolium fluorophore for detection of cyanide by the naked eye
Authors: Niamnont Nakorn , Promchat Apiwat , Siangma Chutima , Pramaulpornsatit Chuenjai , Sukwattanasinitt Mongkol
Published: July 2015

The compound2mixed α-cyclodextrin exhibits the highest CN−recognition sensitivity in aqueous media with the detection limit of 1.3 μM. Test strips based on compound2can act as a convenient and efficient CN−test kit.
New insights into the elasticity and multi-level relaxation of filler network with studies on the rheology of isotactic polypropylene/carbon black nanocomposite
Authors: Yang Luqiong , Huang Shilin , Wu Feng , Zheng Shaodi , Yang Wei , Liu Zhengying , Yang Mingbo
Published: July 2015

The elasticity and multi-level relaxation behavior of filler network in isotactic polypropylene/carbon black nanocomposites were systematically studied, which was instructive for the development and application of viscoelastic materials.
Dynamic metabonomic and microbiological response of rats to lincomycin exposure: an integrated microbiology and metabonomics analysis
Authors: Lin Manna , Xie Zhiyong , Zhou Yuting , Li Yemeng , Ren Jian , Peng Xuan-xian , Yao Meicun , Yang Zhongzhou , Liao Qiongfeng
Published: July 2015

We investigated the changes of gut microbiome, host metabolism and their relationships of lincomycin exposure by microbiological and metabolomics profiling.
Emulsion polymerization for the fabrication of poly(o-phenylenediamine)@multi-walled carbon nanotubes nanocomposites: characterization and their application in the corrosion protection of 316L SS
Authors: Zare Ehsan Nazarzadeh , Lakouraj Moslem Mansour , Ghasemi Shahram , Moosavi Elham
Published: July 2015

PoPDA@MWCNT and PoPDA@FMWCNT nanocomposites used as anti-corrosion protection coatings for steel were successfully fabricated via an in situ emulsion polymerization.
Effect of strontium deficiency on the structural, magnetic and magnetocaloric properties of La0.65Eu0.05Sr0.3−xMnO3 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.15) perovskites
Authors: Bellouz Ridha , Oumezzine Marwène , Dinia Aziz , Schmerber Guy , Hlil El-Kebir , Oumezzine Mohamed
Published: July 2015

We have investigated the effect of nominal strontium deficiency on the structure, magnetic and magnetocaloric properties of La0.65Eu0.05Sr0.3−xMnO3 (x = 0, 0.10 and 0.15) perovskites.
Efficient synthesis of polyfunctionalized thiophene-2,3-diones and thiophen-3(2H)-ones using β-oxodithioesters
Authors: Madabhushi Sridhar , Kurva Srinivas , Sriramoju Vinodkumar , Nanubolu Jagadeesh Babu , Cirandur Suresh Reddy
Published: July 2015

Efficient methods for the preparation of polyfunctionalized thiophene-2,3-diones and thiophen-3(2H)-ones using β-oxodithioesters were described.
Gold-dotted hydroxyapatite nanoparticles as multifunctional platforms for medical applications
Authors: Ferreira dos Santos Catarina , Gomes Pedro Sousa , Almeida Maria Margarida , Willinger Marc-Georg , Franke Ralf-Peter , Fernandes Maria Helena , Costa Maria Elisabete
Published: July 2015

Hydroxyapatite nanoparticles decorated with gold dots, synthesized by a citrate mediated chemical method, enhance the osteogenic differentiation of HMSC.
Oxygen diffusion pathways in a cofactor-independent dioxygenase
Authors: Di Russo Natali V. , Condurso Heather L. , Li Kunhua , Bruner Steven D. , Roitberg Adrian E.
Published: July 2015

A combination of experimental and computational studies reveals the main O2diffusion pathways, providing insight into how cofactor-independent oxygenases control stereospecificity and prevent oxidative inactivation.
A dual ternary system for highly efficient ITO-free inverted polymer solar cells
Authors: Peng Zuosheng , Xia Yuxin , Gao Feng , Xiong Kang , Hu Zhanhao , James David Ian , Chen Junwu , Wang Ergang , Hou Lintao
Published: July 2015

With a dual ternary system, the device performance was greatly increased due to a finer nanostructure and improved energy level alignments.
A magnetic and highly reusable macroporous superhydrophobic/superoleophilic PDMS/MWNT nanocomposite for oil sorption from water
Authors: Turco A. , Malitesta C. , Barillaro G. , Greco A. , Maffezzoli A. , Mazzotta E.
Published: July 2015

Fabrication of porous magnetic nanocomposite based on PDMS and Multiwalled carbon nanotubes via a low cost and facile hard template approach is proposed for the first time. The sponges exhibited selective oil uptake capacity, excellent mechanical properties and reusability making them useful for plugging oil leakage.
Understanding cell homing-based tissue regeneration from the perspective of materials
Authors: Zhao Dapeng , Lei Lei , Wang Shuo , Nie Hemin
Published: July 2015

The triad of cell homing-based tissue engineering.
Crystal structure, electronic band structure and high-temperature thermoelectric properties of Te-substituted tetrahedrites Cu12Sb4−xTexS13(0.5 ≤ x ≤ 2.0)
Authors: Bouyrie Y. , Candolfi C. , Ohorodniichuk V. , Malaman B. , Dauscher A. , Tobola J. , Lenoir B.
Published: July 2015

The crystal structure, thermal stability and high-temperature thermoelectric properties of two series of tetrahedrites prepared by different synthesis routes are reported underlining the importance of off-stoichiometry in this family of compounds.
GlxA is a new structural member of the radical copper oxidase family and is required for glycan deposition at hyphal tips and morphogenesis of Streptomyces lividans
Authors: Chaplin Amanda K. , Petrus Marloes L.C. , Mangiameli Giulia , Hough Michael A. , Svistunenko Dimitri A. , Nicholls Peter , Claessen Dennis , Vijgenboom Erik , Worrall Jonathan A.R.
Published: July 2015

Streptomyces lividans displays a distinct dependence on copper to fully initiate morphological development. Evidence has accumulated to implicate the participation of an extracytoplasmic cuproenzyme in morphogenesis. In the present study, we show that GlxA fulfils all criteria to be that cuproenzyme. GlxA is membrane associated and has an active site consisting of a mononuclear copper and a cross-linked Y-C cofactor. The domain organization of the tertiary structure defines GlxA as a new structural member of the mono-copper oxidase family, with copper co-ordination geometry similar to, but spectroscopically distinct from fungal galactose oxidase (Gox). EPR spectroscopy reveals that the oxidation of cupric GlxA generates a protein radical residing on the Y-C cross-link. A variety of canonical Gox substrates (including D-galactose) were tested but none were readily turned over by GlxA. A glxA null-mutant leads to loss of glycan accumulation at hyphal tips and consequently a drastically changed morphology both on solid substrates and in liquid-grown environments, a scenario similarly observed in the absence of the neighbouring glycan synthase CslA (cellulase synthase-like protein). In addition the glxA mutant has lost the stimulation of development by copper, supporting a model whereby the enzymatic action of GlxA on the glycan is required for development and morphology. From a biotechnology perspective, the open mycelium morphology observed with the glxA mutant in submerged culture has implications for use as an enzyme production host.
Akt kinase C-terminal modifications control activation loop dephosphorylation and enhance insulin response
Authors: Chan Tung O. , Zhang Jin , Tiegs Brian C. , Blumhof Brian , Yan Linda , Keny Nikhil , Penny Morgan , Li Xue , Pascal John M. , Armen Roger S. , Rodeck Ulrich , Penn Raymond B.
Published: July 2015

The Akt protein kinase, also known as protein kinase B, plays key roles in insulin receptor signalling and regulates cell growth, survival and metabolism. Recently, we described a mechanism to enhance Akt phosphorylation that restricts access of cellular phosphatases to the Akt activation loop (Thr308 in Akt1 or protein kinase B isoform alpha) in an ATP-dependent manner. In the present paper, we describe a distinct mechanism to control Thr308 dephosphorylation and thus Akt deactivation that depends on intramolecular interactions of Akt C-terminal sequences with its kinase domain. Modifications of amino acids surrounding the Akt1 C-terminal mTORC2 (mammalian target of rapamycin complex 2) phosphorylation site (Ser473) increased phosphatase resistance of the phosphorylated activation loop (pThr308) and amplified Akt phosphorylation. Furthermore, the phosphatase-resistant Akt was refractory to ceramide-dependent dephosphorylation and amplified insulin-dependent Thr308 phosphorylation in a regulated fashion. Collectively, these results suggest that the Akt C-terminal hydrophobic groove is a target for the development of agents that enhance Akt phosphorylation by insulin.
Hypothalamic NUCKS regulates peripheral glucose homoeostasis
Authors: Qiu Beiying , Shi Xiaohe , Zhou Qiling , Chen Hui Shan , Lim Joy , Han Weiping , Tergaonkar Vinay
Published: July 2015

Nuclear ubiquitous casein and cyclin-dependent kinase substrate (NUCKS) is highly expressed in the brain and peripheral metabolic organs, and regulates transcription of a number of genes involved in insulin signalling. Whole-body depletion of NUCKS (NKO) in mice leads to obesity, glucose intolerance and insulin resistance. However, a tissue-specific contribution of NUCKS to the observed phenotypes remains unknown. Considering the pivotal roles of insulin signalling in the brain, especially in the hypothalamus, we examined the functions of hypothalamic NUCKS in the regulation of peripheral glucose metabolism. Insulin signalling in the hypothalamus was impaired in the NKO mice when insulin was delivered through intracerebroventricular injection. To validate the hypothalamic specificity, we crossed transgenic mice expressing Cre-recombinase under the Nkx2.1 promoter with floxed NUCKS mice to generate mice with hypothalamus-specific deletion of NUCKS (HNKO). We fed the HNKO and littermate control mice with a normal chow diet (NCD) and a high-fat diet (HFD), and assessed glucose tolerance, insulin tolerance and metabolic parameters. HNKO mice showed mild glucose intolerance under an NCD, but exacerbated obesity and insulin resistance phenotypes under an HFD. In addition, NUCKS regulated levels of insulin receptor in the brain. Unlike HNKO mice, mice with immune-cell-specific deletion of NUCKS (VNKO) did not develop obesity or insulin-resistant phenotypes under an HFD. These studies indicate that hypothalamic NUCKS plays an essential role in regulating glucose homoeostasis and insulin signalling in vivo.
Cyclin Y phosphorylation- and 14-3-3-binding-dependent activation of PCTAIRE-1/CDK16
Authors: Shehata Saifeldin N. , Deak Maria , Morrice Nicholas A. , Ohta Eriko , Hunter Roger W. , Kalscheuer Vera M. , Sakamoto Kei
Published: July 2015

PCTAIRE-1 [also known as cyclin-dependent kinase 16 (CDK16)] is implicated in various physiological processes such as neurite outgrowth and vesicle trafficking; however, its molecular regulation and downstream targets are largely unknown. Cyclin Y has recently been identified as a key interacting/activating cyclin for PCTAIRE-1; however, the molecular mechanism by which it activates PCTAIRE-1 is undefined. In the present study, we initially performed protein sequence analysis and identified two candidate phosphorylation sites (Ser12 and Ser336) on cyclin Y that might be catalysed by PCTAIRE-1. Although in vitro peptide analysis favoured Ser12 as the candidate phosphorylation site, immunoblot analysis of cell lysates that had been transfected with wild-type (WT) or kinase-inactive (KI) PCTAIRE-1 together with WT or phospho-deficient mutants of cyclin Y suggested Ser336, but not Ser12, as a PCTAIRE-1-dependent phosphorylation site. Monitoring phosphorylation of Ser336 may provide a useful read-out to assess cellular activity of PCTAIRE-1 in vivo; however, a phospho-deficient S336A mutant displayed normal interaction with PCTAIRE-1. Unbiased mass spectrometry and targeted mutagenesis analysis of cyclin Y identified key phosphorylation sites (Ser100 and Ser326) required for 14-3-3 binding. Recombinant WT cyclin Y, but not a S100A/S326A mutant, prepared in COS-1 cells co-purified with 14-3-3 and was able to activate bacterially expressed recombinant PCTAIRE-1 in cell-free assays. Finally, we observed that recently identified PCTAIRE-1 variants found in patients with intellectual disability were unable to interact with cyclin Y, and were inactive enzymes. Collectively, the present work has revealed a new mechanistic insight into activation of PCTAIRE-1, which is mediated through interaction with the phosphorylated form of cyclin Y in complex with 14-3-3.
Irisin inhibits hepatic gluconeogenesis and increases glycogen synthesis via the PI3K/Akt pathway in type 2 diabetic mice and hepatocytes
Authors: Liu Tong-Yan , Shi Chang-Xiang , Gao Run , Sun Hai-Jian , Xiong Xiao-Qing , Ding Lei , Chen Qi , Li Yue-Hua , Wang Jue-Jin , Kang Yu-Ming , Zhu Guo-Qing
Published: July 2015

Increased glucose production and reduced hepatic glycogen storage contribute to metabolic abnormalities in diabetes. Irisin, a newly identified myokine, induces the browning of white adipose tissue, but its effects on gluconeogenesis and glycogenesis are unknown. In the present study, we investigated the effects and underlying mechanisms of irisin on gluconeogenesis and glycogenesis in hepatocytes with insulin resistance, and its therapeutic role in type 2 diabetic mice. Insulin resistance was induced by glucosamine (GlcN) or palmitate in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cells and mouse primary hepatocytes. Type 2 diabetes was induced by streptozotocin/high-fat diet (STZ/HFD) in mice. In HepG2 cells, irisin ameliorated the GlcN-induced increases in glucose production, phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) and glucose-6-phosphatase (G6Pase) expression, and glycogen synthase (GS) phosphorylation; it prevented GlcN-induced decreases in glycogen content and the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) p110α subunit level, and the phosphorylation of Akt/protein kinase B, forkhead box transcription factor O1 (FOXO1) and glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK3). These effects of irisin were abolished by the inhibition of PI3K or Akt. The effects of irisin were confirmed in mouse primary hepatocytes with GlcN-induced insulin resistance and in human HepG2 cells with palmitate-induced insulin resistance. In diabetic mice, persistent subcutaneous perfusion of irisin improved the insulin sensitivity, reduced fasting blood glucose, increased GSK3 and Akt phosphorylation, glycogen content and irisin level, and suppressed GS phosphorylation and PEPCK and G6Pase expression in the liver. Irisin improves glucose homoeostasis by reducing gluconeogenesis via PI3K/Akt/FOXO1-mediated PEPCK and G6Pase down-regulation and increasing glycogenesis via PI3K/Akt/GSK3-mediated GS activation. Irisin may be regarded as a novel therapeutic strategy for insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
Involvement of pro-inflammatory cytokines and growth factors in the pathogenesis of Dupuytren's contracture: a novel target for a possible future therapeutic strategy?
Authors: Bianchi Enrica , Taurone Samanta , Bardella Lia , Signore Alberto , Pompili Elena , Sessa Vincenzo , Chiappetta Caterina , Fumagalli Lorenzo , Gioia Cira Di , Pastore Francesco S. , Scarpa Susanna , Artico Marco
Published: July 2015

Dupuytren's contracture (DC) is a benign fibro-proliferative disease of the hand causing fibrotic nodules and fascial cords which determine debilitating contracture and deformities of fingers and hands. The present study was designed to characterize pro-inflammatory cytokines and growth factors involved in the pathogenesis, progression and recurrence of this disease, in order to find novel targets for alternative therapies and strategies in controlling DC. The expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and of growth factors was detected by immunohistochemistry in fibrotic nodules and normal palmar fascia resected respectively from patients affected by DC and carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS; as negative controls). Reverse transcription (RT)-PCR analysis and immunofluorescence were performed to quantify the expression of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, interleukin (IL)-1β and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) by primary cultures of myofibroblasts and fibroblasts isolated from Dupuytren's nodules. Histological analysis showed high cellularity and high proliferation rate in Dupuytren's tissue, together with the presence of myofibroblastic isotypes; immunohistochemical staining for macrophages was completely negative. In addition, a strong expression of TGF-β1, IL-1β and VEGF was evident in the extracellular matrix and in the cytoplasm of fibroblasts and myofibroblasts in Dupuytren's nodular tissues, as compared with control tissues. These results were confirmed by RT-PCR and by immunofluorescence in pathological and normal primary cell cultures. These preliminary observations suggest that TGF-β1, IL-1β and VEGF may be considered potential therapeutic targets in the treatment of Dupuytren's disease (DD).
Significant advance in logical predictive control
Authors: Billingsley J. , Ghude S.
Published: July 2015

A new strategy is presented that gives near‐time‐optimal control of a higher‐order system that has a constrained input. It is simple enough that it can be embedded in a common microcontroller. It determines the plant input by logical decisions alone, unlike the method today termed model predictive control that requires the computation of cost functions. With such an implementation, very fast systems can be controlled in real time.
Fast stable normalised least‐mean fourth algorithm
Authors: Zhang Sheng , Zhang Jiashu
Published: July 2015

A fast stable normalised least‐mean fourth (FSNLMF) algorithm is proposed. The major drawback of the stable normalised least‐mean fourth (SNLMF) algorithm is its poor convergence rate, especially in the presence of high signal‐to‐noise ratios (SNRs). Considering the effect of high SNRs, a corresponding constant is introduced in SNLMF algorithm to offer a fast convergence. Simulations on system identifications demonstrate that the proposed FSNLMF algorithm achieves a faster convergence speed than the SNLMF algorithm.
Photonic‐assisted wideband phase noise measurement of microwave signal sources
Authors: Zhang Fangzheng , Zhu Dengjian , Pan Shilong
Published: July 2015

A photonic‐assisted scheme for the phase noise measurement of microwave signal sources is proposed based on the optical delay‐line method. In the proposed scheme, all the microwave signal processing is implemented in the optical domain, and the electrical devices that would limit the operation bandwidth and measurement sensitivity are avoided, leading to a large operation bandwidth and a high sensitivity. The feasibility of the proved phase noise measurement system is experimentally verified. A large operation bandwidth of 5–40 GHz is achieved, and a phase noise floor as low as −140 dBc/Hz at 10 kHz offset is obtained.
Wireless physical layer network coding in potential presence of malicious relays – incomplete information game approach
Authors: Hynek T. , Sykora J.
Published: July 2015

A wireless physical layer network coding (WPLNC) technique in a decentralised and distributed relay network where a maliciously behaving relay may be present is studied. Most research has optimistically assumed altruistic cooperation of relays. The malicious node can lead to a significant disorder among the other relays by selecting its own WPLNC mapping. This scenario is described as a static (single‐shot) incomplete information game where a node type – either friendly or malicious – of the relay is its private information. The focus is on the existence of particular equilibria given the probability of the presence of a malicious node.
5.5 GHz optically transparent mesh wire microstrip patch antenna
Authors: Escobar E.R. , Kirsch N.J. , Kontopidis G. , Turner B.
Published: July 2015

As wireless networking becomes more ubiquitous there is an increasing demand for less obtrusive antennas. Optically transparent antennas increase the locations at which antennas can be installed. Prior work on optically transparent antennas has shown their feasibility using materials such as transparent conductive oxides and conductive polymers. An optically transparent antenna using highly conductive thin mesh wires designed to operate in the 5–6 GHz band is presented. This antenna was compared with a solid copper antenna of the same dimensions. The peak gain of the optically transparent antenna was measured to be 5.7 dBi as opposed to 7.6 dBi for the solid copper patch. Further more, the challenges that occur when realising a mesh wire antenna design are addressed.
Compact metamaterial antenna for UWB applications
Authors: Islam M.M. , Islam M.T. , Samsuzzaman M. , Faruque M.R.I.
Published: July 2015

A compact antenna is proposed using planar‐patterned metamaterial structures for ultra‐wideband applications. This antenna consists of four metamaterial unit cells that simultaneously show both negative permeability and negative permittivity on the triangular patch and three rectangular slots on the partial ground plane fed with a microstrip line. It has a wide bandwidth from 3.07 to 19.91 GHz for voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) <2 and an average gain of 5.62 dBi with a peak of 8.57 dBi because of using planar‐patterned metamaterial structures. Good agreement between computations and experiments is realised convincing that the antenna can operate over a wide bandwidth with planar‐patterned metamaterial structures and compact size (0.28λ × 0.19λ × 0.02λ).
The two-loop sunrise integral around four space-time dimensions and generalisations of the Clausen and Glaisher functions towards the elliptic case
Authors: Adams Luise , Bogner Christian , Weinzierl Stefan
Published: July 2015

We present the result for the finite part of the two-loop sunrise integral with unequal masses in four space-time dimensions in terms of the O(ε0)-part and the O(ε1)-part of the sunrise integral around two space-time dimensions. The latter two integrals are given in terms of elliptic generalisations of Clausen and Glaisher functions. Interesting aspects of the result for the O(ε1)-part of the sunrise integral around two space-time dimensions are the occurrence of depth two elliptic objects and the weights of the individual terms.
Improving the wind penetration level of the power systems connected to doubly fed induction generator wind farms considering voltage stability constraints
Authors: Kamarposhti Mehrdad Ahmadi , Mozafari Seyed Babak , Soleymani Soodabeh , Hosseini Seyed Mehdi
Published: July 2015

Improving the voltage stability in power systems is one of the most important discussions in planning and operation. Voltage stability relies on network configuration, the amount of reactive power, and the setting of reactive power compensating devices. The strong voltage stability of the wind injection buses was enhanced by inserting wind generation and thus increasing the wind penetration level in them. The power system and wind generation area have been influenced by placing new generation at these buses. The proposed method presents a suitable solution to identify the weak points of the system for each wind penetration level. The proposed method uses an index of maximum loading factor and mega watt margin in order to determine the size and the location of wind farms. This study also shows that the location of static VAR compensator has even a vital role in increasing the loading level and megawatt margin of the system. Simulations have been done in the IEEE 14-bus test system using Matlab and PSAT software.
Positivity of linear maps under tensor powers
Authors: Müller-Hermes Alexander , Reeb David , Wolf Michael M.
Published: July 2015

We investigate linear maps between matrix algebras that remain positive under tensor powers, i.e., under tensoring with n copies of themselves. Completely positive and completely co-positive maps are trivial examples of this kind. We show that for every n ∈ ℕ, there exist non-trivial maps with this property and that for two-dimensional Hilbert spaces there is no non-trivial map for which this holds for all n. For higher dimensions, we reduce the existence question of such non-trivial “tensor-stable positive maps” to a one-parameter family of maps and show that an affirmative answer would imply the existence of non-positive partial transpose bound entanglement. As an application, we show that any tensor-stable positive map that is not completely positive yields an upper bound on the quantum channel capacity, which for the transposition map gives the well-known cb-norm bound. We, furthermore, show that the latter is an upper bound even for the local operations and classical communications-assisted quantum capacity, and that moreover it is a strong converse rate for this task.
Readout for intersatellite laser interferometry: Measuring low frequency phase fluctuations of high-frequency signals with microradian precision
Authors: Gerberding Oliver , Diekmann Christian , Kullmann Joachim , Tröbs Michael , Bykov Ioury , Barke Simon , Brause Nils Christopher , Esteban Delgado Juan José , Schwarze Thomas S. , Reiche Jens , Danzmann Karsten , Rasmussen Torben , Hansen Torben Vendt , Enggaard Anders , Pedersen Søren Møller , Jennrich Oliver , Suess Martin , Sodnik Zoran , Heinzel Gerhard
Published: July 2015

Precision phase readout of optical beat note signals is one of the core techniques required for intersatellite laser interferometry. Future space based gravitational wave detectors like eLISA require such a readout over a wide range of MHz frequencies, due to orbit induced Doppler shifts, with a precision in the order of μrad/Hz at frequencies between 0.1 mHz and 1 Hz. In this paper, we present phase readout systems, so-called phasemeters, that are able to achieve such precisions and we discuss various means that have been employed to reduce noise in the analogue circuit domain and during digitisation. We also discuss the influence of some non-linear noise sources in the analogue domain of such phasemeters. And finally, we present the performance that was achieved during testing of the elegant breadboard model of the LISA phasemeter, which was developed in the scope of a European Space Agency technology development activity.
Reducing interface recombination for Cu(In,Ga)Se2 by atomic layer deposited buffer layers
Authors: Hultqvist Adam , Li Jian V. , Kuciauskas Darius , Dippo Patricia , Contreras Miguel A. , Levi Dean H. , Bent Stacey F.
Published: July 2015

Partial CuInGaSe2 (CIGS) solar cell stacks with different atomic layer deposited buffer layers and pretreatments were analyzed by photoluminescence (PL) and capacitance voltage (CV) measurements to investigate the buffer layer/CIGS interface. Atomic layer deposited ZnS, ZnO, and SnOx buffer layers were compared with chemical bath deposited CdS buffer layers. Band bending, charge density, and interface state density were extracted from the CV measurement using an analysis technique new to CIGS. The surface recombination velocity calculated from the density of interface traps for a ZnS/CIGS stack shows a remarkably low value of 810 cm/s, approaching the range of single crystalline II–VI systems. Both the PL spectra and its lifetime depend on the buffer layer; thus, these measurements are not only sensitive to the absorber but also to the absorber/buffer layer system. Pretreatment of the CIGS prior to the buffer layer deposition plays a significant role on the electrical properties for the same buffer layer/CIGS stack, further illuminating the importance of good interface formation. Finally, ZnS is found to be the best performing buffer layer in this study, especially if the CIGS surface is pretreated with potassium cyanide.
Injection locking of a high power ultraviolet laser diode for laser cooling of ytterbium atoms
Authors: Hosoya Toshiyuki , Miranda Martin , Inoue Ryotaro , Kozuma Mikio
Published: July 2015

We developed a high-power laser system at a wavelength of 399 nm for laser cooling of ytterbium atoms with ultraviolet laser diodes. The system is composed of an external cavity laser diode providing frequency stabilized output at a power of 40 mW and another laser diode for amplifying the laser power up to 220 mW by injection locking. The systematic method for optimization of our injection locking can also be applied to high power light sources at any other wavelengths. Our system does not depend on complex nonlinear frequency-doubling and can be made compact, which will be useful for providing light sources for laser cooling experiments including transportable optical lattice clocks.