bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Negative regulatory roles of DE-ETIOLATED1 in flowering time inArabidopsis
Authors: Kang Min-Young , Yoo Soo-Cheul , Kwon Hye-Young , Lee Byoung-Doo , Cho Jung-Nam , Noh Yoo-Sun , Paek Nam-Chon
Published: May 2015

Arabidopsis flowers early under long days (LD) and late under short days (SD).The repressor of photomorphogenesis DE-ETIOLATED1 (DET1) delaysflowering; det1-1 mutants flower early, especially under SD, but themolecular mechanism of DET1 regulation remains unknown. Here we examine theregulatory function of DET1 in repression of flowering. Under SD, the det1-1mutation causes daytime expression of FKF1 and CO; however, theiraltered expression has only a small effect on early flowering in det1-1mutants. Notably, DET1 interacts with GI and binding of GI to the FT promoterincreases in det1-1 mutants, suggesting that DET1 mainly restricts GIfunction, directly promoting FT expression independent of COexpression. Moreover, DET1 interacts with MSI4/FVE, which epigenetically inhibitsFLC expression, indicating that the lack of FLC expression indet1-1 mutants likely involves altered histone modifications at theFLC locus. These data demonstrate that DET1 acts in both photoperiod andautonomous pathways to inhibit expression of FT and SOC1. Consistentwith this, the early flowering of det1-1 mutants disappears completely in theft-1 soc1-2 double mutant background. Thus, we propose that DET1 is astrong repressor of flowering and has a pivotal role in maintaining photoperiodsensitivity in the regulation of flowering time.
A point mutation in the extracellular domain of KIT promotes tumorigenesis of mastcells via ligand-independent auto-dimerization
Authors: Amagai Yosuke , Matsuda Akira , Jung Kyungsook , Oida Kumiko , Jang Hyosun , Ishizaka Saori , Matsuda Hiroshi , Tanaka Akane
Published: May 2015

Mutations in the juxtamembrane and tyrosine kinase domains of the KIT receptor havebeen implicated in several cancers and are known to promote tumorigenesis. However,the pathophysiological manifestations of mutations in the extracellular domainremain unknown. In this study, we examined the impact of a mutation in theextracellular domain of KIT on mast cell tumorigenesis. A KIT mutant with anAsn508Ile variation (N508I) in the extracellular domain derived from a canine mastcell tumor was introduced into IC-2 cells. The IC-2N508I cellsproliferated in a cytokine-independent manner and showed KIT auto-phosphorylation.Subcutaneous injection of IC-2N508I cells into the dorsal area ofimmunodeficient BALB/c-nu/nu mice resulted in the formation of solid tumors,but tumor progression was abrogated by treatment with a tyrosine kinase inhibitor(STI571). In addition, the N508I mutant KIT protein dimerized in the absence of thenatural ligand, stem cell factor. Structure modeling indicates that the increasedhydrophobicity of the mutant led to the stabilization of KIT dimers. These resultssuggest that this extracellular domain mutation confers a ligand-independenttumorigenic phenotype to mast cells by KIT auto-dimerization that isSTI571-sensitive. This is the first report demonstrating the tumorigenic potentialof a mutation in the extracellular domain of KIT.
A theoretical investigation of mixing thermodynamics, age-hardening potential and electronic structure of ternary M11–xM2xB2 alloys with AlB2 type structure
Authors: Alling B. , Högberg H. , Armiento R. , Rosen J. , Hultman L.
Published: May 2015

Transition metal diborides are ceramic materials with potential applications as hard protective thin films and electrical contact materials. We investigate the possibility to obtain age hardening through isostructural clustering, including spinodal decomposition, or ordering-induced precipitation in ternary diboride alloys. By means of first-principles mixing thermodynamics calculations, 45 ternary M11–xM2xB2alloys comprising MiB2(Mi = Mg, Al, Sc, Y, Ti, Zr, Hf, V, Nb, Ta) with AlB2type structure are studied. In particular Al1–xTixB2is found to be of interest for coherent isostructural decomposition with a strong driving force for phase separation, while having almost concentration independentaandclattice parameters. The results are explained by revealing the nature of the electronic structure in these alloys and in particular, the origin of the pseudogap atEFin TiB2, ZrB2and HfB2.
Comparative analysis of the Dicer-like gene family reveals loss of miR162 target site in SmDCL1 from Salvia miltiorrhiza
Authors: Shao Fenjuan , Qiu Deyou , Lu Shanfa
Published: May 2015

DCL1, the core component for miRNA biogenesis, is itself regulated by miR162 in Arabidopsis. MiRNA-mediated feedback regulation of AtDCL1 is important to maintain the proper level of DCL1 transcripts. However, it is unknown whether the miRNA-mediated regulation of DCL1 is conserved among plants. We analyzed the SmDCL gene family in Salvia miltiorrhiza, an emerging model plant for Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) studies, using a comprehensive approach integrating genome-wide prediction, molecular cloning, gene expression profiling and posttranscriptional regulation analysis. A total of five SmDCLs were identified. Comparative analysis of SmDCLs and AtDCLs showed an apparent enlargement of SmDCL introns in S. miltiorrhiza. The absence of miR162 in S. miltiorrhiza and the loss of miR162 target site in SmDCL1 were unexpectedly found. Further analysis showed that the miR162 target site was not present in DCL1 from ancient plants and was gained during plant evolution. The gained miR162 target site might be lost in a few modern plants through nucleotide mutations. Our results provide evidence for the gain and loss of miR162 and its target sites in Dicer-like genes during evolution. The data is useful for understanding the evolution of miRNA-mediated feedback regulation of DCLs in plants.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of the effect of statins on plasma asymmetric dimethylarginine concentrations
Authors: Serban Corina , Sahebkar Amirhossein , Ursoniu Sorin , Mikhailidis Dimitri P. , Rizzo Manfredi , Lip Gregory Y.H. , Kees Hovingh G. , Kastelein John J.P. , Kalinowski Leszek , Rysz Jacek , Banach Maciej
Published: May 2015

The impact of statin therapy on plasma asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) levels has not been conclusively studied. Therefore the aim of the meta-analysis was to assess the effect of statins on circulating ADMA levels. We searched selected databases (up to August 2014) to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that investigate the effect of statins on plasma ADMA concentrations. A weighted meta-regression (WMD) using unrestricted maximum likelihood model was performed to assess the impact of statin dose, duration of statin therapy and baseline ADMA concentrations as potential variables on the WMD between statin and placebo group. In total, 1134 participants in 9 selected RCTs were randomized; 568 were allocated to statin treatment and 566 were controls. There was a significant reduction in plasma ADMA concentrations following statin therapy compared with placebo (WMD: − 0.104 μM, 95% confidence interval: − 0.131 to − 0.077, Z = − 7.577, p < 0.0001). Subgroups analysis has shown a significant impact of hydrophilic statins (WMD: − 0.207 μM, 95%CI: − 0.427 to + 0.013, Z = − 7.250, p < .0001) and a non-significant effect of hydrophobic statins (WMD: − 0.101 μM, 95%CI: − 0.128 to − 0.074, Z = − 1.845, p = 0.065). In conclusion, this meta-analysis of available RCTs showed a significant reduction in plasma ADMA concentrations following therapy with hydrophilic statins.
Proteomic-based biotyping reveals hidden diversity within a microalgae culture collection: An example using Dunaliella
Authors: Emami Kaveh , Hack Ethan , Nelson Andrew , Brain Chelsea M. , Lyne Fern M. , Mesbahi Ehsan , Day John G. , Caldwell Gary S.
Published: May 2015

Accurate and defendable taxonomic identification of microalgae strains is vital for culture collections, industry and academia; particularly when addressing issues of intellectual property. We demonstrate the remarkable effectiveness of Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionisation Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS) biotyping to deliver rapid and accurate strain separation, even in situations where standard molecular tools prove ineffective. Highly distinctive MALDI spectra were obtained for thirty two biotechnologically interesting Dunaliella strains plus strains of Arthrospira, Chlorella, Isochrysis, Tetraselmis and a range of culturable co-occurring bacteria. Spectra were directly compared with genomic DNA sequences (internal transcribed spacer, ITS). Within individual Dunaliella isolates MALDI discriminated between strains with identical ITS sequences, thereby emphasising and enhancing knowledge of the diversity within microalgae culture collections. Further, MALDI spectra did not vary with culture age or growth stage during the course of the experiment; therefore MALDI presents stable and accurate strain-specific signature spectra. Bacterial contamination did not affect MALDI’s discriminating power. Biotyping by MALDI-TOF-MS will prove effective in situations wherein precise strain identification is vital, for example in cases involving intellectual property disputes and in monitoring and safeguarding biosecurity. MALDI should be accepted as a biotyping tool to complement and enhance standard molecular taxonomy for microalgae.
A method for human teratogen detection by geometrically confined cell differentiation and migration
Authors: Xing Jiangwa , Toh Yi-Chin , Xu Shuoyu , Yu Hanry
Published: May 2015

Unintended exposure to teratogenic compounds can lead to various birth defects; however current animal-based testing is limited by time, cost and high inter-species variability. Here, we developed a human-relevantin vitromodel, which recapitulated two cellular events characteristic of embryogenesis, to identify potentially teratogenic compounds. We spatially directed mesoendoderm differentiation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition and the ensuing cell migration in micropatterned human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC) colonies to collectively form an annular mesoendoderm pattern. Teratogens could disrupt the two cellular processes to alter the morphology of the mesoendoderm pattern. Image processing and statistical algorithms were developed to quantify and classify the compounds’ teratogenic potential. We not only could measure dose-dependent effects but also correctly classify species-specific drug (Thalidomide) and false negative drug (D-penicillamine) in the conventional mouse embryonic stem cell test. This model offers a scalable screening platform to mitigate the risks of teratogen exposures in human.
Skin Rejuvenation with Non-Invasive Pulsed Electric Fields
Authors: Golberg Alexander , Khan Saiqa , Belov Vasily , Quinn Kyle P. , Albadawi Hassan , Felix Broelsch G. , Watkins Michael T. , Georgakoudi Irene , Papisov Mikhail , Mihm Martin C. , Austen William G. , Yarmush Martin L.
Published: May 2015

Degenerative skin diseases affect one third of individuals over the age of sixty. Current therapies use various physical and chemical methods to rejuvenate skin; but since the therapies affect many tissue components including cells and extracellular matrix, they may also induce significant side effects, such as scarring. Here we report on a new, non-invasive, non-thermal technique to rejuvenate skin with pulsed electric fields. The fields destroy cells while simultaneously completely preserving the extracellular matrix architecture and releasing multiple growth factors locally that induce new cells and tissue growth. We have identified the specific pulsed electric field parameters in rats that lead to prominent proliferation of the epidermis, formation of microvasculature and secretion of new collagen at treated areas without scarring. Our results suggest that pulsed electric fields can improve skin function and thus can potentially serve as a novel non-invasive skin therapy for multiple degenerative skin diseases.
A hybrid-membrane migration method to isolate high-purity adipose-derived stem cells from fat tissues
Authors: Higuchi Akon , Wang Ching-Tang , Ling Qing-Dong , Lee Henry Hsin-chung , Kumar S. Suresh , Chang Yung , Alarfaj Abdullah A. , Munusamy Murugan A. , Hsu Shih-Tien , Wu Gwo-Jang , Umezawa Akihiko
Published: May 2015

Human adipose-derived stem cells (hADSCs) exhibit heterogeneous characteristics, indicating various genotypes and differentiation abilities. The isolated hADSCs can possess different purity levels and divergent properties depending on the purification methods used. We developed a hybrid-membrane migration method that purifies hADSCs from a fat tissue solution with extremely high purity and pluripotency. A primary fat-tissue solution was permeated through the porous membranes with a pore size from 8 to 25 μm and the membranes were incubated in cell culture medium for 15-18 days. The hADSCs that migrated from the membranes contained an extremely high percentage (e.g., >98%) of cells positive for mesenchymal stem cell markers and showed almost one order of magnitude higher expression of some pluripotency genes (Oct4, Sox2, Klf4 and Nanog) compared with cells isolated using the conventional culture method.
Male-specific coliphages for source tracking fecal contamination in surface waters and prevalence of Shiga-toxigenic Escherichia coli in a major produce production region of the Central Coast of California
Authors: Ravva Subbarao V. , Sarreal Chester Z. , Cooley Michael B.
Published: May 2015

F+ RNA coliphages are invaluable for predicting the sources of fecal contamination in the environment and their prevalence data may aid in preventing the spread of enteric pathogens from likely sources.
Submicron fungal fragments as another indoor biocontaminant in elementary schools
Authors: Seo SungChul , Ji Yeong Gyu , Yoo Young , Kwon Myung Hee , Choung Ji Tae
Published: May 2015

There has been great concern about mold in school environments, but few comprehensive assessments of mold have been performed in such settings.
Characterization of carotenoids in soil bacteria and investigation of their photodegradation by UVA radiation via resonance Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Kumar B. N. Vinay , Kampe Bernd , Rösch Petra , Popp Jürgen
Published: May 2015

Analysis of the photodegradation kinetics of pigments in soil bacteria for better characterization of carotenoids via resonance Raman spectroscopy is described.
Synergistically enhanced oxygen reduction activity of MnOx–CeO2/Ketjenblack composites
Authors: Chen Jiajie , Zhou Nan , Wang Haiyan , Peng Zhiguang , Li Huiyong , Tang Yougen , Liu Kun
Published: May 2015

Due to the synergistic effect, the as-prepared MnOx–CeO2/KB hybrid exhibited a significant improvement of catalytic performance in comparison with MnOx/KB or CeO2/KB alone. It also exhibited comparable activity and better stability towards ORR than commercial Pt/C.
Electrochromic polyoxometalate material as a sensor of bacterial activity
Authors: González Ana , Gálvez Natividad , Clemente-León Miguel , Dominguez-Vera Jose M.
Published: May 2015

Lactobacillus fermentum, a healthy bacterium of human microbiota, acts as an electron donor for the electrochromic polyoxometalate [P2MoVI18O62]6−. This reaction affords a means of evaluating the activity of the bacterium.
Chelerythrine–lysozyme interaction: spectroscopic studies, thermodynamics and molecular modeling exploration
Authors: Jash Chandrima , Basu Pritha , Payghan Pavan V. , Ghoshal Nanda , Kumar Gopinatha Suresh
Published: May 2015

The binding of the iminium and alkanolamine forms of chelerythrine to lysozyme (Lyz) was investigated by spectroscopy and molecular modeling studies.
Electrochemical fabrication of nanoporous copper films in choline chloride–urea deep eutectic solvent
Authors: Zhang Q. B. , Abbott Andrew P. , Yang C.
Published: May 2015

Schematic illustration of the in situ electrochemical alloying/dealloying process for fabrication of nanoporous copper (NPC) film in choline chloride–urea deep eutectic solvent.
Multiple scale investigation of molecular diffusion inside functionalized porous hosts using a combination of magnetic resonance methods
Authors: Wessig Martin , Spitzbarth Martin , Drescher Malte , Winter Rainer , Polarz Sebastian
Published: May 2015

Diffusion in organo-functionalized porous hosts could be tracked by evaluation of spin exchange processes using EPR spectroscopy.
Intramolecular hydrogen bonds involving organic fluorine in the derivatives of hydrazides: an NMR investigation substantiated by DFT based theoretical calculations
Authors: Mishra Sandeep Kumar , Suryaprakash N.
Published: May 2015

The rare examples of intramolecular hydrogen bonds (HB) of the type the N–H⋯F–C, detected in a low polarity solvent in the derivatives of hydrazides, by utilizing one and two-dimensional solution state multinuclear NMR techniques, are reported.
Fabrication of CdMoO4@CdS core–shell hollow superstructures as high performance visible-light driven photocatalysts
Authors: Madhusudan Puttaswamy , Zhang Jun , Cheng Bei , Yu Jiaguo
Published: May 2015

Core–shell CdMoO4@CdS hollow microspheres, fabricated by a simple ion-exchange hydrothermal method, exhibit outstanding photocatalytic activity toward degradation of RhB dye solution.
Co-solvent enhanced zinc oxysulfide buffer layers in Kesterite copper zinc tin selenide solar cells
Authors: Steirer K. Xerxes , Garris Rebekah L. , Li Jian V. , Dzara Michael J. , Ndione Paul F. , Ramanathan Kannan , Repins Ingrid , Teeter Glenn , Perkins Craig L.
Published: May 2015

Performance deficiencies from the too large conduction band offset between Cu2ZnSnSe4/ZnOS heterojunctions are abated by the inclusion of a co-solvent during aqueous growth of the buffer layer.
The structure of chloromethyl thiocyanate, CH2ClSCN, in gas and crystalline phases
Authors: Berrueta Martínez Y. , Rodríguez Pirani L. S. , Erben M. F. , Reuter C. G. , Vishnevskiy Y. V. , Stammler H. G. , Mitzel N. W. , Della Védova C. O.
Published: May 2015

The structural and conformational properties of chloromethyl thiocyanate, CH2ClSCN, were studied in the solid phase and in the gas phase usingin situlow-temperature single-crystal X-ray diffraction experiments (XRD) and gas electron diffraction (GED), respectively.
Facile method for the synthesis of a magnetic CNTs–C@Fe–chitosan composite and its application in tetracycline removal from aqueous solutions
Authors: Ma Jie , Zhuang Yuan , Yu Fei
Published: May 2015

A new type of biocomposite, as-prepared carbon nanotubes–chitosan (APCNTs–CS), was prepared and characterized.
Water-soluble oxoglaucine-Y(iii), Dy(iii) complexes: in vitro and in vivo anticancer activities by triggering DNA damage, leading to S phase arrest and apoptosis
Authors: Wei Jian-Hua , Chen Zhen-Feng , Qin Jiao-Lan , Liu Yan-Cheng , Li Zhu-Quan , Khan Taj-Malook , Wang Meng , Jiang Yan-Hua , Shen Wen-Ying , Liang Hong
Published: May 2015

The complexes exhibited considerable in vitro and in vivo anticancer activity, and higher safety than ciplatin.
Single-phased white-light-emitting Ca4(PO4)2O:Ce3+,Eu2+ phosphors based on energy transfer
Authors: Jia Yonglei , Pang Ran , Li Haifeng , Sun Wenzhi , Fu Jipeng , Jiang Lihong , Zhang Su , Su Qiang , Li Chengyu , Liu Ru-Shi
Published: May 2015

Based on energy transfer from Ce3+ to Eu2+, a novel white-light-emitting Ca4(PO4)2O:Ce3+,Eu2+ phosphor was obtained.
New organically templated thiocyanatocadmates and chlorocuprate(ii): synthesis and structural characterization
Authors: Guo Bing , Zhang Xiao , Yu Jie-Hui , Xu Ji-Qing
Published: May 2015

Structural characterization of five thiocyanatocadmates and one chlorocuprate(ii) are reported and the photoluminescence properties of the Cd(ii) hybrids are investigated.
Metal triflate-mediated coupling of allylgermanes with thiols: a facile route to thiogermanes
Authors: Kuciński K. , Pawluć P. , Hreczycho G.
Published: May 2015

A novel coupling reaction of thiols with (2-methylallyl)germanes catalyzed by metal triflates has been developed.
Comparative effects of red and white grapes on oxidative markers and lipidemic parameters in adult hypercholesterolemic humans
Authors: Rahbar Ali Reza , Mahmoudabadi Mohammad Mehdi Shakouri , Islam Md. Shahidul
Published: May 2015

This study confirmed the better anti-oxidative and hypolipidemic effects of red grapes compared to the white grapes in hypercholesterolemic humans.
Antioxidant activity of alkyl hydroxytyrosyl ethers in unsaturated lipids
Authors: Cert Rosa , Madrona Andrés , Espartero José Luis , Pérez-Camino M. Carmen
Published: May 2015

The addition of alkyl HTy ethers to polyunsaturated oils preserves tocopherols and fatty acids and maintains their nutritional properties for longer periods of time.
A four-organ-chip for interconnected long-term co-culture of human intestine, liver, skin and kidney equivalents
Authors: Maschmeyer Ilka , Lorenz Alexandra K. , Schimek Katharina , Hasenberg Tobias , Ramme Anja P. , Hübner Juliane , Lindner Marcus , Drewell Christopher , Bauer Sophie , Thomas Alexander , Sambo Naomia Sisoli , Sonntag Frank , Lauster Roland , Marx Uwe
Published: May 2015

We established a microfluidic four-organ-chip for interconnected long-term co-culture of human intestine (1), liver (2), skin (3) and kidney (4) equivalents.
A novel aminotriazole-based NHC complex for the design of gold(i) anti-cancer agents: synthesis and biological evaluation
Authors: Serebryanskaya T. V. , Zolotarev A. A. , Ott I.
Published: May 2015

A novel gold(i) complex based on an aminotriazole N-heterocylic carbene ligand represents a promising scaffold for the design of anticancer bioorganometallics.
Influence of the amino acid side chain on peptide bond hydrolysis catalyzed by a dimeric Zr(iv)-substituted Keggin type polyoxometalate
Authors: Ly Hong Giang T. , Absillis Gregory , Parac-Vogt Tatjana N.
Published: May 2015

Structurally different dipeptides were hydrolyzed by [{α-PW11O39Zr-(μ-OH)(H2O)}2]8−. The rate constants were dependent on bulkiness and chemical nature of the dipeptide.
Neighbouring group participation of thiol through aldehyde group assisted thiolysis of active ether: ratiometric and vapor phase fast detection of hydrogen sulfide in mixed aqueous media
Authors: Das Avijit Kumar , Goswami Shyamaprosad , Quah Ching Kheng , Fun Hoong-Kun
Published: May 2015

Ratiometric and fast detection of H2S via NGP of thiol rather than direct nucleophilic attack to cleave active ether linkage.
Interaction of a novel platinum drug with bovine serum albumin: FTIR and UV-Vis spectroscopy analysis
Authors: Korkmaz Filiz , Erdogan Deniz Altunoz , Özalp-Yaman Şeniz
Published: May 2015

Platinum-Blue docks at a hydrophobic cavity at low concentrations with a binding constant comparable to that of cisplatin.
Rhodium(ii)-catalysed intramolecular C–H insertion α- to oxygen: reactivity, selectivity and applications to natural product synthesis
Authors: Lombard Fanny J. , Coster Mark J.
Published: May 2015

This review highlights reactivity and selectivity trends for the insertion of Rh(ii) carbenes into C–H bonds that are activated by α-oxygen substituents, and the application of this reaction to the total synthesis of some natural products.
Topology, assembly, and electronics: three pillars for designing supramolecular polymers with emergent optoelectronic behavior
Authors: Peurifoy Samuel R. , Guzman Carmen X. , Braunschweig Adam B.
Published: May 2015

Supramolecular polymers for solar energy harvesting can be created by considering carefully the relationship between topology, assembly, and photophysics.
The Suzuki coupling reaction as a post-polymerization modification: a promising protocol for construction of cyclic-brush and more complex polymers
Authors: Wang Yunshu , Zhang Shuangshuang , Wang Laibing , Zhang Wei , Zhou Nianchen , Zhang Zhengbiao , Zhu Xiulin
Published: May 2015

The Suzuki coupling reaction was utilized as a highly efficient post-polymerization modification for modular construction of cyclic-brush polymers and other more complex polymers.
Fluorescence quenching of 1-pyrene-carboxaldehyde by iodide ions in the presence of anionic (SDS) and cationic (CTAC) micelles: a quantitative treatment
Authors: Bernal Eva , Lebron José Antonio , Sarrion Beatriz , Lopez-Cornejo Pilar , Carmona Carmen , Burgos Francisco Sanchez , Lopez-Lopez Manuel
Published: May 2015

Applicability of the pseudophase model to photochemical reactions in the presence of receptors (micelles) in spite of the fact that the equilibrium condition between free and bound reactants does not hold.
Goethite nanorods as a cheap and effective filler for siloxane nanocomposite elastomers
Authors: Iacob M. , Stiubianu G. , Tugui C. , Ursu L. , Ignat M. , Turta C. , Cazacu M.
Published: May 2015

Composites based on PDMS and goethite nanorods are for the first time approached from the perspective of dielectric elastomers.
Bio-based PBS copolyesters derived from a bicyclicd-glucitol
Authors: Zakharova Elena , Alla Abdelilah , Martínez de Ilarduya Antxon , Muñoz-Guerra Sebastián
Published: May 2015

Copolyesters of PBS containing bicyclicd-glucitol units attainTgvalues even higher than with isosorbide.
Maskless, site-selective, nanoaerosol deposition via electro-aerodynamic jet to enhance the performance of flexible Ag-grid transparent electrodes
Authors: Park Kyu-Tae , Park Jaehong , Park Ji-Woon , Hwang Jungho
Published: May 2015

Grid-type transparent electrodes (TE) have been fabricated using various techniques, but enhancing the performance of TEs remains challenging.
Carbon dioxide hydrogenation to methanol over Cu/ZrO2/CNTs: effect of carbon surface chemistry
Authors: Wang Guannan , Chen Limin , Sun Yuhai , Wu Junliang , Fu Mingli , Ye Daiqi
Published: May 2015

The excellent catalytic performance of Cu/ZrO2/CNTs is related to its H2 and CO2 adsorption capability, originating from nitrogen species on CNT.
Generation of nitrogen-doped photoluminescent carbonaceous nanodots via the hydrothermal treatment of fish scales for the detection of hypochlorite
Authors: Wu Guoqin , Feng Miao , Zhan Hongbing
Published: May 2015

Preparing nitrogen-doped (N-doped) photoluminescent carbonaceous nanodots (C-dots) from the recycling/utilisation of nitrogen-rich carbonaceous waste has received considerable research interest.
Fabrication and properties of poly(ethylene chlorotrifluoroethylene) membranes via thermally induced phase separation (TIPS)
Authors: Pan Jian , Xiao Changfa , Huang Qinglin , Wang Chun , Liu Hailiang
Published: May 2015

Poly(ethylene chlorotrifluoroethylene) (ECTFE) porous membranes have been fabricated via thermally induced phase separation (TIPS).
Insights into the fatty acid ester norethisterone enanthate binding to human albumin: fluorescence, circular dichroism, and docking investigations
Authors: Wang Qing , Ma Xiangling , He Jiawei , Li Yuanzhi , Li Hui
Published: May 2015

Fatty acid ester norethisterone enanthate binding to human albumin.
Mn3O4@C core–shell composites as an improved anode for advanced lithium ion batteries
Authors: Ma Xiaojian , Zhai Yanjun , Wang Nana , Yang Jian , Qian Yitai
Published: May 2015

Mn3O4@C core–shell nanorods present 765 mA h g−1 after 100 cycles at a current density of 500 mA g−1.
Hydrogen peroxide as an oxidant in starch oxidation using molybdovanadophosphate for producing a high carboxylic content
Authors: Wang Hang , Poya Yalinu , Chen Xiaoli , Jia Ting , Wang Xiaohong , Shi Junyou
Published: May 2015

Molybdovanadophosphate has been used for producing a high carboxyl content from starch by hydrogen peroxide.
Improved daylight-induced photocatalytic performance and suppressed photocorrosion of N-doped ZnO decorated with carbon quantum dots
Authors: Muthulingam S. , Bae Kang Bin , Khan Rizwan , Lee In-Hwan , Uthirakumar Periyayya
Published: May 2015

An N-doped ZnO photocatalyst decorated with carbon quantum dots and active under irradiation with daylight was developed for the degradation of dyes in industrial wastewaters.
Pentafluorophenyl vinyl sulfonate enables efficient, metal-free, radical-based alkene hydroacylation with an aldehyde as a limiting reagent
Authors: Chudasama Vijay
Published: May 2015

Pentafluorophenyl vinyl sulfonate enables efficient radical-based, metal-free, alkene hydroacylation with a single equivalent of an aldehyde.
Correction: Structural and magnetic properties of GaN/Mn nanopowders prepared by an anaerobic synthesis route
Authors: Drygas Mariusz , Janik Jerzy F. , Bucko Miroslaw M. , Gosk Jacek , Twardowski Andrzej
Published: May 2015

Correction for ‘Structural and magnetic properties of GaN/Mn nanopowders prepared by an anaerobic synthesis route’ by Mariusz Drygas et al., RSC Adv., 2015, 5, 37298–37313.
Correction: Simultaneously improving the thermal stability, flame retardancy and mechanical properties of polyethylene by the combination of graphene with carbon black
Authors: Gong Jiang , Niu Ran , Liu Jie , Chen Xuecheng , Wen Xin , Mijowska Ewa , Sun Zhaoyan , Tang Tao
Published: May 2015

Correction for ‘Simultaneously improving the thermal stability, flame retardancy and mechanical properties of polyethylene by the combination of graphene with carbon black’ by Jiang Gong et al., RSC Adv., 2014, 4, 33776–33784.
Inducing uniform single-crystal like orientation in natural rubber with constrained uniaxial stretch
Authors: Zhou Weiming , Meng Lingpu , Lu Jie , Wang Zhen , Zhang Wenhua , Huang Ningdong , Chen Liang , Li Liangbin
Published: May 2015

The single-crystal-like orientation of natural rubber polycrystals is induced by constrained stretch, and the free energy of the final state should be incorporated into the thermodynamic driving force for flow-induced crystallization.
From multi-responsive tri- and diblock copolymers to diblock-copolymer-decorated gold nanoparticles: the effect of architecture on micellization behaviors in aqueous solutions
Authors: Song Lichun , Sun Hui , Chen Xiaolu , Han Xia , Liu Honglai
Published: May 2015

This work reports on the aqueous stimuli-responsive behaviors of an ABA triblock copolymer, a BAB triblock copolymer, an AB diblock copolymer and citrate-based gold nanoparticles decorated with AB diblock copolymers.
Z-scheme water splitting under visible light irradiation over powdered metal-complex/semiconductor hybrid photocatalysts mediated by reduced graphene oxide
Authors: Suzuki Tomiko M. , Iwase Akihide , Tanaka Hiromitsu , Sato Shunsuke , Kudo Akihiko , Morikawa Takeshi
Published: May 2015

Powdered Z-scheme water splitting was demonstrated by visible-light photocatalysis utilizing a combination of a metal-complex catalyst, reduced graphene oxide, and semiconductors.
A cellulose nanocrystal-based composite electrolyte with superior dimensional stability for alkaline fuel cell membranes
Authors: Lu Yuan , Armentrout Aaron A. , Li Juchuan , Tekinalp Halil L. , Nanda Jagjit , Ozcan Soydan
Published: May 2015

A cellulose nanocrystal-based composite electrolyte exhibited superior dimensional stability, handleability, and hydroxide conductivity.
Fabrication of urchin-like NiCo2(CO3)1.5(OH)3@NiCo2S4 on Ni foam by an ion-exchange route and application to asymmetrical supercapacitors
Authors: Yang Bin , Yu Lei , Yan Huijun , Sun Yanbo , Liu Qi , Liu Jingyuan , Song Dalei , Hu Songxia , Yuan Yi , Liu Lianhe , Wang Jun
Published: May 2015

We synthesized the urchin-like NiCo2(CO3)1.5(OH)3@NiCo2S4 which has a high electrochemistry response capability and cycle stability by the ion exchange route.
The focal adhesion kinase Pyk2 links Ca2+ signalling to Src family kinase activation and protein tyrosine phosphorylation in thrombin-stimulated platelets
Authors: Canobbio Ilaria , Cipolla Lina , Guidetti Gianni F. , Manganaro Daria , Visconte Caterina , Kim Soochong , Okigaki Mitsuhiko , Falasca Marco , Kunapuli Satya P. , Torti Mauro
Published: May 2015

In blood platelets, stimulation of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) by thrombin triggers the activation of Src family kinases (SFKs), resulting in the tyrosine-phosphorylation of multiple substrates, but the mechanism underlying this process is still poorly understood. In the present study, we show that the time-dependent protein-tyrosine phosphorylation triggered by thrombin in human or murine platelets was totally suppressed only upon concomitant chelation of intracellular Ca2+ and inhibition of SFKs. Thrombin-induced activation of SFKs was regulated by intracellular Ca2+ and accordingly the Ca2+ ionophore A23187 was sufficient to stimulate SFKs. A23187 also triggered the phosphorylation and activation of the Ca2+-dependent focal adhesion kinase Pyk2 and Pyk2 activation by thrombin was Ca2+-dependent. Stimulation of SFKs by thrombin or A23187 was strongly reduced in platelets from Pyk2 knockout (KO) mice, as was the overall pattern of protein-tyrosine phosphorylation. By immunoprecipitation experiments, we demonstrate that Lyn and Fyn, but not Src, were activated by Pyk2. Inhibition of SFKs by PP2 also reduced the phosphorylation of Pyk2 in thrombin or A23187-stimulated platelets. Analysis of KO mice demonstrated that Fyn, but not Lyn, was required for complete Pyk2 phosphorylation by thrombin. Finally, PP2 reduced aggregation of murine platelets to a level comparable to that of Pyk2-deficient platelets, but did not have further effects in the absence of Pyk2. These results indicate that in thrombin-stimulated platelets, stimulation of Pyk2 by intracellular Ca2+ initiates SFK activation, establishing a positive loop that reinforces the Pyk2/SFK axis and allows the subsequent massive tyrosine phosphorylation of multiple substrates required for platelet aggregation.
Synthesis of extreme sparse array for real‐time 3D acoustic imaging
Authors: Liu Xuesong , Zhou Fan , Zhou Hong , Tian Xiang
Published: May 2015

An optimised synthesis method for designing an extreme sparse array with the minimum set of elements is proposed. The method is based on a cross‐array configuration and a multi‐frequency beamforming algorithm. The experimental results show that the extreme sparse array achieves a 98.9% element thinning compared with the fully sampled planar array and the generated beam pattern satisfies the presupposed constraints. This is much better than the results obtained in the previous literature.
Mobile‐based flower species recognition in the natural environment
Authors: Lee Hyo‐Haeng , Kim Jung‐Hyun , Hong Kwang‐Seok
Published: May 2015

A system design and new method for recognising a flower's species in a natural environment are proposed. An experimental analysis is conducted to improve the optimal method of feature extraction that is developed for the colour, texture and shape. These results showed that the colour (HS, CbCrCg and RGB), texture (grey level co‐occurrence matrix) and shape (zero crossing rate) features for pictures of flowers were the most effective. The study develops flower image recognition technology that can be utilised in a mobile environment.
Shape matching and object recognition using common base triangle area
Authors: Hu Dameng , Huang Weiguo , Yang Jianyu , Shang Li , Zhu Zhongkui
Published: May 2015

Shape matching has always been a key issue in the field of computer vision. To obtain high recognition accuracy with low time complexity and to reduce the influence of contour deformation due to noise in shape matching, a novel shape matching method based on common base triangle area (CBTA) is proposed. First, a CBTA descriptor of each contour point is defined based on the area functions of the triangles formed by its two neighbour points and other contour points. Then, the descriptor is locally smoothed to keep it more compact and robust to noise. Secondly, a match cost matrix is obtained by computing the CBTA descriptors of all the contour points on two shapes. Finally, the similarity between the two shapes is measured on the basis of the match cost matrix by a dynamic programming algorithm. The experimental results on MPEG‐7, Kimia and an articulation shape database indicate that this method is robust to contour deformation, and both the computational efficiency and the retrieval rate are essentially improved.
Affine arithmetic‐based methodology for energy hub operation‐scheduling in the presence of data uncertainty
Authors: Vaccaro Alfredo , Pisani Cosimo , Zobaa Ahmed Faheem
Published: May 2015

In this study, the role of self‐validated computing for solving the energy hub‐scheduling problem in the presence of multiple and heterogeneous sources of data uncertainties is explored and a new solution paradigm based on affine arithmetic is conceptualised. The benefits deriving from the application of this methodology are analysed in details, and several numerical results are presented and discussed.
Powered two wheelers’ workload assessment with various methods using a motorcycle simulator
Authors: Will Sebastian , Schmidt Eike Andreas
Published: May 2015

A riding simulator study (n = 14) was conducted in order to test the sensitivity of performance measures, subjective ratings as well as physiological measures in controlled variations of rider workload. In a second study (n = 15), these parameters were used in order to assess the effects of different secondary tasks. The task of operating an on‐bike information system led to the highest workload, for example, indicated by deteriorated lane keeping and higher subjective ratings compared with a simple visual, an auditory and no secondary task at all. The third study (n = 18) focused on the effects of eyes‐off road while riding using the method of occlusion. This revealed that the participants felt safe to black out the scenery quite often and long. Periods of occlusion were related to a higher mean velocity and a tendency to ride more on the left side of the lane compared with riding with enabled projection.
Energy‐efficient predictive congestion control for wireless sensor networks
Authors: Uthra Rajan Annie , Raja S.V. Kasmir , Jeyasekar Antony , Lattanze Anthony J.
Published: May 2015

In recent years, wireless sensor networks have become an emerging technology in industries, environment monitoring and health care monitoring systems and so on. However, sensor node is a resource‐constrained device in terms of memory, bandwidth and energy. These constraints impose congestion in the network, leading to large number of packet drops, low throughput and significant wastage of energy because of retransmission. This study presents a new approach for predicting congestion using probabilistic method, and controlling congestion using new rate control methods. The probabilistic approach used for the prediction of occurrence of congestion in a node is developed using data traffic and buffer occupancy. The rate control method uses rate allocation schemes, namely, rate reduction (RR), rate regulation (RRG) and split protocol (SP) to improve throughput and to reduce packet drops. In addition, an energy‐efficient routing which finds the best forwarding node for data transmission is also proposed. Simulation results are compared with decentralised predictive congestion control (DPCC). The results show that the proposed method indeed reduces congestion and energy consumption, and improves the performance.
Metamaterial-based theoretical description of light scattering by metallic nano-hole array structures
Authors: Singh Mahi R. , Najiminaini Mohamadreza , Balakrishnan Shankar , Carson Jeffrey J. L.
Published: May 2015

We have experimentally and theoretically investigated the light-matter interaction in metallic nano-hole array structures. The scattering cross section spectrum was measured for three samples each having a unique nano-hole array radius and periodicity. Each measured spectrum had several peaks due to surface plasmon polaritons. The dispersion relation and the effective dielectric constant of the structure were calculated using transmission line theory and Bloch's theorem. Using the effective dielectric constant and the transfer matrix method, the surface plasmon polariton energies were calculated and found to be quantized. Using these quantized energies, a Hamiltonian for the surface plasmon polaritons was written in the second quantized form. Working with the Hamiltonian, a theory of scattering cross section was developed based on the quantum scattering theory and Green's function method. For both theory and experiment, the location of the surface plasmon polariton spectral peaks was dependant on the array periodicity and radii of the nano-holes. Good agreement was observed between the experimental and theoretical results. It is proposed that the newly developed theory can be used to facilitate optimization of nanosensors for medical and engineering applications.
Damped leaf flexure hinge
Authors: Chen Zhong , Chen Guisheng , Zhang Xianmin
Published: May 2015

Flexure-based mechanism like compliant actuation system embeds complex dynamics that will reduce the control bandwidth and limits their dynamic positioning precision. This paper presents a theoretical model of a leaf flexure hinge with damping layers using strain energy method and Kelvin damping model. The modified loss factor of the damped leaf flexure hinge is derived, and the equivalent viscous damping coefficient of the damped leaf hinge is obtained, which could be used to improve the pseudo-rigid-model. The free vibration signals of the hinge in three different damping configurations are measured. The experimental modal analysis also is performed on the three kinds of damped leaf flexure hinges in order to evaluate their 1st order bending natural frequency and vibration-suppressing effects. The evaluation of modified loss factor model also is performed. The experimental results indicate that the constrained layer damping can enhance the structure damping of the hinge even if only single damping layer each side, the modified loss factor model can get good predicts of a damped leaf flexure hinge in the frequency range below 1st order natural frequency, and it is necessary that the dimensional parameters of the damping layers and basic layer of the hinge should be optimized for simplification at the mechanism’s design stage.
Spatio-temporal behavior of microwave sheath-voltage combination plasma source
Authors: Kar Satyananda , Kousaka Hiroyuki , Raja Laxminarayan L.
Published: May 2015

Microwave sheath-Voltage combination Plasma (MVP) is a high density plasma source and can be used as a suitable plasma processing device (e.g., ionized physical vapor deposition). In the present report, the spatio-temporal behavior of an argon MVP sustained along a direct-current biased Ti rod is investigated. Two plasma modes are observed, one is an “oxidized state” (OS) at the early time of the microwave plasma and the other is “ionized sputter state” (ISS) at the later times. Transition of the plasma from OS to ISS results a prominent change in the visible color of the plasma, resulting from a significant increase in the plasma density, as measured by a Langmuir probe. In the OS, plasma is dominated by Ar ions, and the density is in amplitude order of 1011 cm−3. In the ISS, metal ions from the Ti rod contribute significantly to the ion composition, and higher density plasma (1012 cm−3) is produced. Nearly uniform high density plasma along the length of the Ti rod is produced at very low input microwave powers (around 30 W). Optical emission spectroscopy measurements confirm the presence of sputtered Ti ions and Ti neutrals in the ISS.
Suppression of excess oxygen for environmentally stable amorphous In-Si-O thin-film transistors
Authors: Aikawa Shinya , Mitoma Nobuhiko , Kizu Takio , Nabatame Toshihide , Tsukagoshi Kazuhito
Published: May 2015

We discuss the environmental instability of amorphous indium oxide (InOx)-based thin-film transistors (TFTs) in terms of the excess oxygen in the semiconductor films. A comparison between amorphous InOx doped with low and high concentrations of oxygen binder (SiO2) showed that out-diffusion of oxygen molecules causes drastic changes in the film conductivity and TFT turn-on voltages. Incorporation of sufficient SiO2 could suppress fluctuations in excess oxygen because of the high oxygen bond-dissociation energy and low Gibbs free energy. Consequently, the TFT operation became rather stable. The results would be useful for the design of reliable oxide TFTs with stable electrical properties.
Nonlinear elasticity of auxetic open cell foams modeled as continuum solids
Authors: Ciambella Jacopo , Bezazi Abderrezak , Saccomandi Giuseppe , Scarpa Fabrizio
Published: May 2015

Structure evolution during deformation of isotropic auxetic foams is investigated by simple compression experiments. It is shown that the main feature observed in the experimental data can be accurately described by an isotropic hyperelastic model with an Ogden-type strain energy function. The model can be easily implemented in a finite element code and, hence, can be used to simulate foams undergoing complex structural deformations.
Refining the phase diagram of Pb1−xLax(Zr0.9Ti0.1)1−x/4O3 ceramics by structural, dielectric, and anelastic spectroscopy investigations
Authors: Craciun F. , Cordero F. , Ciuchi I. V. , Mitoseriu L. , Galassi C.
Published: May 2015

We present the results of dielectric and anelastic spectroscopy measurements, together with X-ray diffraction investigations, which allow us to establish more precisely the phase diagram of Pb1−xLax(Zr0.9Ti0.1)1−x/4O3 (PLZT x/90/10) in the compositional range around the AFE/FE phase boundary (0 < x < 0.04). From structural analysis and polarization-electric field measurements, we have found that the ground state of PLZT samples with x < 0.025 is rhombohedral R3c, while samples with x > 0.032 are antiferroelectric with orthorhombic Pbam structure. In-between, for compositions with 0.025 ≤ x ≤ 0.032, a coexistence of the AFE/FE phases is evidenced. The use of complementary dielectric and anelastic techniques allows to follow the phase transitions shifts throughout all the interesting composition range and to construct the temperature-composition phase diagram. The tilt instability line, separating the R3c and R3m low and high temperature phases, has been evidenced. Moreover, the new transition, associated with the onset of disordered tilting preceding the long range order of the R3c phase, previously found in Zr-rich Pb(Zr,Ti)O3, is confirmed in rhombohedral PLZT x/90/10 compositions.
Effect of isovalent non-magnetic Fe-site doping on the electronic structure and spontaneous polarization of BiFeO3
Authors: Singh Poorva , Roy Amritendu , Garg Ashish , Prasad R.
Published: May 2015

We report the results of our first-principles calculations on the effect of isovalent, non-magnetic, Al3+ ion doping on the electronic structure and spontaneous polarization of multiferroic BiFeO3. Our calculations reveal that Al3+ doping in BiFeO3 results in the reduction of Fe–O–Fe bond angle, leading to the weakening of antiferromagnetic superexchange interaction, further substantiated by the reduction of exchange interaction constant with increasing doping level. Lowering of well-depth is suggestive of reduced switching potential and improved P-E loop with lowered coercivity. Chemical bonding analysis by electron localization function shows that cation–oxygen bonding is of mixed ionic–covalent character, with marginal increase in the covalent character with increasing doping concentration. Large spontaneous polarization of undoped BiFeO3 is retained with lower doping level (6.25%), while for higher doping content (31.25%), the spontaneous polarization is reduced, primarily due to larger c/a ratio at higher doping level.
Charge transfer and orbital reconstruction in the (La2/3Sr1/3MnO3)m/(SrRuO3)n superlattices
Authors: Lv Kai , Zhu H. P. , Zou W. Q. , Zhang F. M. , Wu X. S.
Published: May 2015

The structural, electronic, and magnetic properties of (La2/3Sr1/3MnO3)m/(SrRuO3)n superlattices have been investigated based on the first principles calculations. An obvious Jahn-Teller distortion, which depends on m, n, appears in MnO6 octahedron in the superlattices. The stretch along c-axis of MnO6 octahedron at the interface lifts the Mn eg orbital degeneracy, with electrons preferring the lower energy 3z2−r2 to the higher energy x2−y2. Benefitting from the charge transfer at the interface, the still occupied x2−y2 orbital can mediate a robust in-plane double exchange interaction. La2/3Sr1/3MnO3 block is ferromagnetic and metallic, even for the superlattice with m = n = 1.