bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of ionizing radiation on the proliferation of human embryonic stem cells
Authors: Panyutin Irina V. , Holar Sonia A. , Neumann Ronald D. , Panyutin Igor G.
Published: March 2017

We studied the effect of ionizing radiation (IR) on continuous growth of seven hESC lines. Cells were exposed to 0, 0.2, or 1 Gy of X-rays, and the growth rates of cell populations were assessed by measuring areas of the same individual colonies versus time. The population doubling times (DT) of sham-irradiated cells varied from 18.9 to 28.7 hours for different cell lines. All cell lines showed similar reaction to IR, i.e. cell populations dropped within 24–48 hours post IR; after that they recovered and grew with the same rate as the sham-irradiated cells. The relative cell survival (RCS), i.e. the ratio of normalized cell population in the irradiated samples to that of the sham-irradiated ones varied from 0.6 to 0.8 after 0.2 Gy, and from 0.1 to 0.2 after 1 Gy IR for different cell lines. We found that the RCS values of hESC lines correlated directly with their DT, i.e. the faster cells grow the more radiosensitive they are. We also found that DT and RCS values of individual colonies varied significantly within all hESC lines. We believe that the method developed herein can be useful for assessing other cytotoxic insults on cultures of hESC.
Superconducting gap structure of FeSe
Authors: Jiao Lin , Huang Chien-Lung , Rößler Sahana , Koz Cevriye , Rößler Ulrich K. , Schwarz Ulrich , Wirth Steffen
Published: March 2017

The microscopic mechanism governing the zero-resistance flow of current in some iron-based, high-temperature superconducting materials is not well understood up to now. A central issue concerning the investigation of these materials is their superconducting gap symmetry and structure. Here we present a combined study of low-temperature specific heat and scanning tunnelling microscopy measurements on single crystalline FeSe. The results reveal the existence of at least two superconducting gaps which can be represented by a phenomenological two-band model. The analysis of the specific heat suggests significant anisotropy in the gap magnitude with deep gap minima. The tunneling spectra display an overall “U”-shaped gap close to the Fermi level away as well as on top of twin boundaries. These results are compatible with the anisotropic nodeless models describing superconductivity in FeSe.
High glucose alters tendon homeostasis through downregulation of the AMPK/Egr1 pathway
Authors: Wu Yu-Fu , Wang Hsing-Kuo , Chang Hong-Wei , Sun Jingyu , Sun Jui-Sheng , Chao Yuan-Hung
Published: March 2017

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with higher risk of tendinopathy, which reduces tolerance to exercise and functional activities and affects lifestyle and glycemic control. Expression of tendon-related genes and matrix metabolism in tenocytes are essential for maintaining physiological functions of tendon. However, the molecular mechanisms involved in diabetic tendinopathy remain unclear. We hypothesized that high glucose (HG) alters the characteristics of tenocyte. Using in vitro 2-week culture of tenocytes, we found that expression of tendon-related genes, including Egr1, Mkx, TGF-β1, Col1a2, and Bgn, was significantly decreased in HG culture and that higher glucose consumption occurred. Down-regulation of Egr1 by siRNA decreased Scx, Mkx, TGF-β1, Col1a1, Col1a2, and Bgn expression. Blocking AMPK activation with Compound C reduced the expression of Egr1, Scx, TGF-β1, Col1a1, Col1a2, and Bgn in the low glucose condition. In addition, histological examination of tendons from diabetic mice displayed larger interfibrillar space and uneven glycoprotein deposition. Thus, we concluded that high glucose alters tendon homeostasis through downregulation of the AMPK/Egr1 pathway and the expression of downstream tendon-related genes in tenocytes. The findings render a molecular basis of the mechanism of diabetic tendinopathy and may help develop preventive and therapeutic strategies for the pathology.
Neoagaro-oligosaccharide monomers inhibit inflammation in LPS-stimulated macrophages through suppression of MAPK and NF-κB pathways
Authors: Wang Wei , Liu Pei , Hao Cui , Wu Lijuan , Wan Wenjin , Mao Xiangzhao
Published: March 2017

Neoagaro-oligosaccharides derived from agarose have been demonstrated to possess a variety of biological activities, such as anti-bacteria and anti-oxidative activities. In this study, we mainly explored the inhibitory effects and the mechanisms of neoagaro-oligosaccharide monomers against LPS-induced inflammatory responses in mouse macrophage RAW264.7 cells. The results indicated that neoagaro-oligosaccharide monomers especially neoagarotetraose could significantly reduce the production and release of NO in LPS-induced macrophages. Neoagarotetraose significantly suppressed the expression and secretion of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and proinflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6. The inhibition mechanisms may be associated with the inhibition of the activation of p38MAPK, Ras/MEK/ERK and NF-κB signaling pathways. Thus, neoagarotetraose may attenuate the inflammatory responses through downregulating the MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways in LPS-stimulated macrophages. In summary, the marine-derived neoagaro-oligosaccharide monomers merit further investigation as novel anti-inflammation agents in the future.
Regulation of striatal dopamine responsiveness by Notch/RBP-J signaling
Authors: Toritsuka M , Kimoto S , Muraki K , Kitagawa M , Kishimoto T , Sawa A , Tanigaki K
Published: March 2017

Dopamine signaling is essential for reward learning and fear-related learning, and thought to be involved in neuropsychiatric diseases. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of dopamine responsiveness is unclear. Here we show the critical roles of Notch/RBP-J signaling in the regulation of dopamine responsiveness in the striatum. Notch/RBP-J signaling regulates various neural cell fate specification, and neuronal functions in the adult central nervous system. Conditional deletion of RBP-J specifically in neuronal cells causes enhanced response to apomorphine, a non-selective dopamine agonist, and SKF38393, a D1 agonist, and impaired dopamine-dependent instrumental avoidance learning, which is corrected by SCH23390, a D1 antagonist. RBP-J deficiency drastically reduced dopamine release in the striatum and caused a subtle decrease in the number of dopaminergic neurons. Lentivirus-mediated gene transfer experiments showed that RBP-J deficiency in the striatum was sufficient for these deficits. These findings demonstrated that Notch/RBP-J signaling regulates dopamine responsiveness in the striatum, which may explain the mechanism whereby Notch/RBP-J signaling affects an individual’s susceptibility to neuropsychiatric disease.
Use of a direct mercury analyzer® for mercury speciation in different matrices without sample preparation
Authors: Windmöller Cláudia Carvalhinho , Silva Nayara Carolinne , Morais Andrade Pedro Henrique , Mendes Louise Aparecida , Magalhães do Valle Cláudia
Published: March 2017

Hg concentration as a function of temperature for a Hg(0) standard using a direct Hg analyzer.
Brownian diffusion of a particle at an air/liquid interface: the elastic (not viscous) response of the surface
Authors: Toro-Mendoza Jhoan , Rodriguez-Lopez Gieberth , Paredes-Altuve Oscar
Published: March 2017

Here, the effect of the elastic response of the surface on the translational diffusion coefficient of a partly submerged-in-water spherical Brownian particle is considered.
Molecular and dissociative adsorption of water and hydrogen sulfide at perfect and defective Cu(110) surfaces
Authors: Lousada Cláudio M. , Johansson Adam Johannes , Korzhavyi Pavel A.
Published: March 2017

The adsorption of H2O and H2S onto Cu(110) surfaces lead to considerably different geometries and surface reconstruction and relaxation mechanisms.
In situ studies of NO reduction by H2over Pt using surface X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy
Authors: Roobol S. B. , Onderwaater W. G. , van Spronsen M. A. , Carla F. , Balmes O. , Navarro V. , Vendelbo S. , Kooyman P. J. , Elkjær C. F. , Helveg S. , Felici R. , Frenken J. W. M. , Groot I. M. N.
Published: March 2017

Exposure to H2induces faceting of the Pt nanoparticle, while exposure to NO induces rounding of the nanoparticle.
Identification of the response of protein N–H vibrations in vibrational sum-frequency generation spectroscopy of aqueous protein films
Authors: Meister K. , Paananen A. , Bakker H. J.
Published: March 2017

We study the response of protein N–H vibrations in aqueous hydrophobin films using vibrational sum- frequency generation spectroscopy.
Prediction of strong O–H/M hydrogen bonding between water and square-planar Ir and Rh complexes
Authors: Janjić G. V. , Milosavljević M. D. , Veljković D. Ž. , Zarić S. D.
Published: March 2017

The very strong O–H/M interaction between a water molecule and a neutral square-planar complex (−9.83 kcal mol−1) is calculated using a quantum chemical method.
Steam reforming of methanol over oxide decorated nanoporous gold catalysts: a combined in situ FTIR and flow reactor study
Authors: Shi J. , Mahr C. , Murshed M. M. , Gesing T. M. , Rosenauer A. , Bäumer M. , Wittstock A.
Published: March 2017

Methanol as a green and renewable resource can be used to generate hydrogen by reforming, i.e., its catalytic oxidation with water.
The effect of ring size on the selective carboxylation of cycloalkene oxides
Authors: Alsaiari Raiedhah , Perrott Luke T. , Nowicka Ewa , Engel Rebecca V. , Miedziak Peter J. , Kondrat Simon A. , Edwards Jennifer K. , Willock David J. , Hutchings Graham J.
Published: March 2017

DFT and experimental study of CO2 reaction with cyclic alkene epoxides to form carbonates using ammonium salts and ZnBr2 as catalyst.
An investigation of the PM2.5 and NO2 concentrations and their human health impacts in the metro subway system of Suzhou, China
Authors: Cao Shi-Jie , Kong Xiang-Ri , Li Linyan , Zhang Weirong , Ye Zi-Ping , Deng Yelin
Published: March 2017

This study measured the particle concentrations with an aerodynamic diameter smaller than 2.5 μm (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and relative humidity (RH) at five subway metro stations in Suzhou's subway system (Lines 1 and 2).
Towards next-generation label-free biosensors: recent advances in whispering gallery mode sensors
Authors: Kim Eugene , Baaske Martin D. , Vollmer Frank
Published: March 2017

We review recent advances achieved in the field of optical whispering gallery mode biosensors. We discuss major challenges that these label-free sensors are faced with on their way towards future real-world applications and introduce different approaches suggested to overcome these issues. We furthermore highlight their potential future applications.
Hybrid formation of graphene oxide–POSS and their effect on the dielectric properties of poly(aryl ether ketone) composites
Authors: Lu Yaning , Zhang Shuling , Geng Zhi , Zhu Kai , Zhang Menghan , Na Ruiqi , Wang Guibin
Published: March 2017

Covalent functionalization of graphene oxide with aminopropylisobutyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane efficiently reduced the dielectric constant of the polymer matrix.
Synthesis, characterization and immobilization of N-doped TiO2 catalysts by a reformed polymeric precursor method
Authors: Yu Han , Ye Li , Zhang Tuzi , Zhou Heng , Zhao Tong
Published: March 2017

Catalysts coated quartz fabric with favorable photocatalytic activity were prepared to avoid the difficulties in its recycle and reuse.
Electrodeposition of aluminium foils on carbon electrodes in low temperature ionic liquid
Authors: Tu Xianneng , Zhang Junling , Zhang Meng , Cai Yingjun , Lang Haiyan , Tian Guoxin , Wang Yanli
Published: March 2017

Schematic illustration of aluminium foils on GC substrate by electrodeposition. It is significant to find the thickness value at which dendrites start occurring on foils at different current densities.
Low-cost dual cocatalysts BiVO4 for highly efficient visible photocatalytic oxidation
Authors: Lin Feng , Shao Zhiyu , Li Ping , Chen Zhenpan , Liu Xinyi , Li Mingrun , Zhang Bao , Huang Jindou , Zhu Guangqi , Dong Bin
Published: March 2017

Co-loading earth-abundant Ni and CuO cocatalysts on BiVO4 can significantly enhance the thiophene and dyes oxidation under visible light irradiation.
Vertically aligned ZnO/ZnTe core/shell heterostructures on an AZO substrate for improved photovoltaic performance
Authors: Luo Songping , He Xiaoli , Shen Heping , Li Jianbao , Yin Xuewen , Oron Dan , Lin Hong
Published: March 2017

Vertically aligned ZnO/ZnTe core/shell heterostructures on an Al-doped ZnO substrate developed for sensitized solar cells.
Luminescence properties and energy transfer in Tb3+ and Eu3+ co-doped Ba2P2O7 phosphors
Authors: Wang Baoxing , Ren Qiang , Hai Ou , Wu Xiulan
Published: March 2017

The Ba2P2O7:Tb3+, Eu3+ phosphors were synthesized by a high temperature solid-state reaction method in air atmosphere and their crystal structures, lifetime, luminescence properties, and energy transfer mechanism were investigated in detail.
Microbiome-based carboxylic acids production: from serum bottles to bioreactors
Authors: Hegner Richard , Koch Christin , Riechert Vanessa , Harnisch Falk
Published: March 2017

We propose a cheap, time and resource efficient screening and upscaling strategy for microbiome-based production of bio-based fuels and chemicals.
Study of the E–Z stilbene isomerisation in perchlorotriphenyl-methane (PTM) derivatives
Authors: Bejarano F. , Alcon I. , Crivillers N. , Mas-Torrent M. , Bromley S. T. , Veciana J. , Rovira C.
Published: March 2017

No reversibility in the E → Z isomerization of two vinylidene derivatives due to steric effects on the Z isomer is demonstrated.
Hollow carbon nanobubbles: monocrystalline MOF nanobubbles and their pyrolysis
Authors: Zhang Wei , Jiang Xiangfen , Zhao Yanyi , Carné-Sánchez Arnau , Malgras Victor , Kim Jeonghun , Kim Jung Ho , Wang Shaobin , Liu Jian , Jiang Ji-Sen , Yamauchi Yusuke , Hu Ming
Published: March 2017

While bulk-sized metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) face limits to their utilization in various research fields such as energy storage applications, nanoarchitectonics is believed to be a possible solution.
Isotopically enriched polymorphs of dysprosium single molecule magnets
Authors: Kishi Y. , Pointillart F. , Lefeuvre B. , Riobé F. , Le Guennic B. , Golhen S. , Cador O. , Maury O. , Fujiwara H. , Ouahab L.
Published: March 2017

The magnetic memory effect of mononuclear DyIII-based single molecule magnets can be tuned by playing with polymorphism as well as isotopic enrichment.
Separation of charge-regulated polyelectrolytes by pH-assisted diffusiophoresis
Authors: Hsu Jyh-Ping , Hsu Yen-Rei , Shang-Hung Hsieh , Tseng Shiojenn
Published: March 2017

The potential of separating colloidal particles through pH-assisted diffusiophoresis is evaluated.
Isotopic and quantum-rovibrational-state effects for the ion–molecule reaction in the collision energy range of 0.03–10.00 eV
Authors: Xu Yuntao , Xiong Bo , Chang Yih Chung , Ng C. Y.
Published: March 2017

The quantum-rotational- and vibrational-state effects on the chemical reactivity of H2O+ ion toward HD have been examined in detail in a wide kinetic energy range of 0.03–10.00 eV.
Wet chemical etching induced stress relaxed nanostructures on polar & non-polar epitaxial GaN films
Authors: Mishra Monu , Gundimeda Abhiram , Krishna Shibin , Aggarwal Neha , Gahtori Bhasker , Dilawar Nita , Aggarwal Ved Varun , Singh Manju , Rakshit Rajib , Gupta Govind
Published: March 2017

Chemical etching induced stress-relaxed & defect minimized faceted nanopyramids, flat/trigonal nanorods and porous structures on polar & non-polar GaN with reduced wettability & high current conduction.
Nonadiabatic coupling reduces the activation energy in thermally activated delayed fluorescence
Authors: Gibson J. , Penfold T. J.
Published: March 2017

The activation energy of thermally activated delayed fluorescence can be reduced by nonadiabatic coupling.
Pair natural orbital and canonical coupled cluster reaction enthalpies involving light to heavy alkali and alkaline earth metals: the importance of sub-valence correlation
Authors: Minenkov Yury , Bistoni Giovanni , Riplinger Christoph , Auer Alexander A. , Neese Frank , Cavallo Luigi
Published: March 2017

The sub-valence electron correlation effects are of critical importance for accurate energetics of alkali and alkaline-earth complexes from (DLPNO-)CCSD(T) calculations.
Size and shape effects on the thermodynamic properties of nanoscale volumes of water
Authors: Strøm Bjørn A. , Simon Jean-Marc , Schnell Sondre K. , Kjelstrup Signe , He Jianying , Bedeaux Dick
Published: March 2017

Size and shape effects on the thermodynamic properties of nanoscale volumes of water in molecular dynamics simulations, based on the nanothermodynamic formalism of Terrell L. Hill.
Energy conversion modeling of the intrinsic persistent luminescence of solids via energy transfer paths between transition levels
Authors: Huang Bolong , Sun Mingzi
Published: March 2017

The energy transfer mechanism for persistent luminescence. The thermodynamic transition levels (TTLs) and single-particle levels (SPLs) are correlated with phonons.
A study of biocatalysts based on glucose oxidase
Authors: Golikova E. P. , Lakina N. V. , Grebennikova O. V. , Matveeva V. G. , Sulman E. M.
Published: March 2017

During this work, we studied the possibility of glucose oxidase (GOx) covalent immobilization on a modified inorganic support. A series of GOx-based biocatalysts was synthesized by crosslinking the enzyme to a surface of modified silica or alumina. Polyelectrolyte layers were used as modifiers for the silica and alumina surfaces. These layers promote tight binding of the GOx to the support. The biocatalyst’s activity and stability were studied using an oxidation reaction ofd-glucose tod-gluconic acid. It was found that GOx immobilized on the modified SiO2using glutardialdehyde as a crosslinking agent was the most active and stable catalytic system, showing an 85% yield of gluconic acid. A study of the synthesized biocatalyst structure using FTIR spectroscopy showed that the enzyme was covalently crosslinked to the surface of an inorganic support modified with chitosan and glutardialdehyde. In the case of SiO2, the quantity of the immobilized enzyme was higher than in the case of Al2O3.
Photoluminescence and electroluminescence of an iridium(iii) complex with 2′,6′-bis(trifluoromethyl)-2,4′-bipyridine and 2-(5-phenyl-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-yl)phenol ligands
Authors: Jing Yi-Ming , Zheng You-Xuan
Published: March 2017

Efficient greenish yellow OLEDs based on an iridium(iii) complex containing electron transport ligands of 2′,6′-bis(trifluoromethyl)-2,4′-bipyridine and 2-(5-phenyl-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-yl)phenol show a maximum current efficiency of 54.5 cd A−1and a maximum external quantum efficiency of 16.1%.
Comparative pharmacokinetic profile of cyclosporine (CsA) with a decapeptide and a linear analogue
Authors: Price David A. , Eng Heather , Farley Kathleen A. , Goetz Gilles H. , Huang Yong , Jiao Zhaodong , Kalgutkar Amit S. , Kablaoui Natasha M. , Khunte Bhagyashree , Liras Spiros , Limberakis Chris , Mathiowetz Alan M. , Ruggeri Roger B. , Quan Jun-Min , Yang Zhen
Published: March 2017

The synthesis and in vivo pharmacokinetic profile of an analogue of cyclosporine is disclosed.
Tuning liquid crystalline phase behaviour in columnar crown ethers by sulfur substituents
Authors: Kirres Jochen , Schmitt Katharina , Wurzbach Iris , Giesselmann Frank , Ludwigs Sabine , Ringenberg Mark , Ruff Adrian , Baro Angelika , Laschat Sabine
Published: March 2017

Sulfur-containing side chains in the periphery ofo-terphenyl or triphenylene units of crown ethers induce room-temperature columnar mesophases.
TBHP-promoted direct oxidation reaction of benzylic Csp3–H bonds to ketones
Authors: Tan Jiajing , Zheng Tianyu , Yu Yuqi , Xu Kun
Published: March 2017

A metal-free oxidation system employingtert-butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) has been developed for selective oxidation of structurally diverse benzylic sp3C–H bonds.
Effect of gasoline–bioethanol blends on the properties and lubrication characteristics of commercial engine oil
Authors: Khuong L. S. , Masjuki H. H. , Zulkifli N. W. M. , Mohamad E. Niza , Kalam M. A. , Alabdulkarem Abdullah , Arslan A. , Mosarof M. H. , Syahir A. Z. , Jamshaid M.
Published: March 2017

The increasing use of bioethanol causes tribological effects on engine components. It is crucial to study the effect of bioethanol on oil degradation and friction and wear behaviors of engine oil, using four-ball wear tester.
Nanopore sensor for copper ion detection using a polyamine decorated β-cyclodextrin as the recognition element
Authors: Guo Yanli , Jian Feifei , Kang Xiaofeng
Published: March 2017

A novel and simple nanopore sensing method has been developed for the detection of CuII ions using polyamine decorated cyclodextrin as the recognition element.
Templated fabrication of pH-responsive poly(l-glutamic acid) based nanogels via surface-grafting and macromolecular crosslinking
Authors: Yan Shifeng , Sun Yuanyuan , Chen An , Liu Lei , Zhang Kunxi , Li Guifei , Duan Yourong , Yin Jingbo
Published: March 2017

A novel class of pH-responsive poly(l-glutamic acid)/chitosan (PLGA/CS) nanogels was fabricated by a templating approach, combined with a “grafting from” method and intermacromolecular crosslinking technique.
Collective generation of milliemulsions by step-emulsification
Authors: Huang Xing , Eggersdorfer Max , Wu Jinrong , Zhao Chun-Xia , Xu Zhongbin , Chen Dong , Weitz David A.
Published: March 2017

Milliemulsions are produced by microcapillary films based on step-emulsification and the flow behaviors depend on the geometry and capillary number.
Towards life in hydrocarbons: aggregation behaviour of “reverse” surfactants in cyclohexane
Authors: Facchin M. , Scarso A. , Selva M. , Perosa A. , Riello P.
Published: March 2017

Unconventional life forms based on membranes able to self-assemble in hydrocarbons instead of water might exist in the hydrocarbon-rich environment of Titan. We present evidence of the self-assembly of reverse surfactants to yield typical micelles in a hydrocarbon solvent.
Evaluation of hydrodeoxygenation reactivity of pyrolysis bio-oil with various Ni-based catalysts for improvement of fuel properties
Authors: Oh Shinyoung , Choi Hang Seok , Choi In-Gyu , Choi Joon Weon
Published: March 2017

To improve bio-oil quality, deoxygenation degree and energy efficiency of the process, Ni/C, Ni/SBA-15 and Ni/Al-SBA-15 were synthesized and subjected to hydrodeoxgygenative upgrading process of bio-oil.
Highly specific imaging of mRNA in single cells by target RNA-initiated rolling circle amplification
Authors: Deng Ruijie , Zhang Kaixiang , Sun Yupeng , Ren Xiaojun , Li Jinghong
Published: March 2017

We report a robust method for the efficient imaging of mRNA with single-nucleotide and near-single-molecule resolution in single cells.
A general approach for the direct fabrication of metal oxide-based electrocatalysts for efficient bifunctional oxygen electrodes
Authors: Wang Jie , Wu Zexing , Han Lili , Xuan Cuijuan , Zhu Jing , Xiao Weiping , Wu Jianzhong , Xin Huolin L. , Wang Deli
Published: March 2017

Nitrogen doped carbon supported Ni@NiO, MnO and Co@CoO catalysts have been successfully preparedviaa simple one-pot synthetic method. As air catalysts in aqueous rechargeable Zn–air batteries, Co@CoO/NDC-700 exhibits much better bifunctional catalytic and battery performance.
A sodium–aluminum hybrid battery
Authors: Sun Xiao-Guang , Zhang Zhizhen , Guan Hong Yu , Bridges Craig A. , Fang Youxing , Hu Yong-Sheng , Veith Gabriel M. , Dai Sheng
Published: March 2017

A hybrid battery based on an aluminum anode, a sodium insertion cathode Na3V2(PO4)3, and a sodium/aluminum dual salt electrolyte has been demonstrated. The hybrid battery exhibits a discharge voltage of 1.25 V and a cathodic capacity of 99 mA h g−1 at a current rate of C/10. It also shows good rate performance and long-term cycling stability while maintaining a high coulombic efficiency of 98%.
High-index facet engineering of PtCu cocatalysts for superior photocatalytic reduction of CO2 to CH4
Authors: Lang Qingqing , Yang Yanju , Zhu Yuzhen , Hu Wenli , Jiang Wenya , Zhong Shuxian , Gong Peijun , Teng Botao , Zhao Leihong , Bai Song
Published: March 2017

(730) high index faceted PtCu concave nanocube cocatalysts were designed for enhanced photocatalytic performance of C3N4–PtCu hybrid structures in the reduction of CO2 to CH4.
Recent progresses in high-energy-density all pseudocapacitive-electrode-materials-based asymmetric supercapacitors
Authors: Sun Jinfeng , Wu Chen , Sun Xiaofei , Hu Hong , Zhi Chunyi , Hou Linrui , Yuan Changzhou
Published: March 2017

This review elaborately summarizes the latest progress in all-pseudocapacitive asymmetric supercapacitors, including aqueous/nonaqueous faradaic electrode materials, the operating principles, system design/engineering, and rational optimization.
Isomerism effect on the photovoltaic properties of benzotrithiophene-based hole-transporting materials
Authors: García-Benito Inés , Zimmermann Iwan , Urieta-Mora Javier , Aragó Juan , Molina-Ontoria Agustín , Ortí Enrique , Martín Nazario , Nazeeruddin Mohammad Khaja
Published: March 2017

Isomerism of benzotrithiophene-based hole transporting materials is shown to have a significant impact on conductance properties, affording photovoltaic efficiency values as high as 19%.
Insulating polymer additives in small molecule and polymer photovoltaics: how they are tolerated and their use as potential interlayers
Authors: Manion Joseph G. , Gao Dong , Brodersen Peter M. , Seferos Dwight S.
Published: March 2017

Additives are key to achieving optimal morphologies and efficient performance in bulk heterojunction organic photovoltaics.
Extracellular matrix inflammation in vascular cognitive impairment and dementia
Authors: Rosenberg Gary A.
Published: March 2017

Vascular cognitive impairment and dementia (VCID) include a wide spectrum of chronic manifestations of vascular disease related to large vessel strokes and small vessel disease (SVD). Lacunar strokes and white matter (WM) injury are consequences of SVD. The main vascular risk factor for SVD is brain hypoperfusion from cerebral blood vessel narrowing due to chronic hypertension. The hypoperfusion leads to activation and degeneration of astrocytes with the resulting fibrosis of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Elasticity is lost in fibrotic cerebral vessels, reducing the response of stiffened blood vessels in times of increased metabolic need. Intermittent hypoxia/ischaemia activates a molecular injury cascade, producing an incomplete infarction that is most damaging to the deep WM, which is a watershed region for cerebral blood flow. Neuroinflammation caused by hypoxia activates microglia/macrophages to release proteases and free radicals that perpetuate the damage over time to molecules in the ECM and the neurovascular unit (NVU). Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) secreted in an attempt to remodel the blood vessel wall have the undesired consequences of opening the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and attacking myelinated fibres. This dual effect of the MMPs causes vasogenic oedema in WM and vascular demyelination, which are the hallmarks of the subcortical ischaemic vascular disease (SIVD), which is the SVD form of VCID also called Binswanger's disease (BD). Unravelling the complex pathophysiology of the WM injury-related inflammation in the small vessel form of VCID could lead to novel therapeutic strategies to reduce damage to the ECM, preventing the progressive damage to the WM.
Nonadjacent Dependency Learning in Cantonese-Speaking Children With and Without a History of Specific Language Impairment
Authors: Iao Lai-Sang , Ng Lai Yan , Wong Anita Mei Yin , Lee Oi Ting
Published: March 2017

Purpose

This study investigated nonadjacent dependency learning in Cantonese-speaking children with and without a history of specific language impairment (SLI) in an artificial linguistic context.

Method

Sixteen Cantonese-speaking children with a history of SLI and 16 Cantonese-speaking children with typical language development (TLD) were tested with a nonadjacent dependency learning task using artificial languages that mimic Cantonese.

Results

Children with TLD performed above chance and were able to discriminate between trained and untrained nonadjacent dependencies. However, children with a history of SLI performed at chance and were not able to differentiate trained versus untrained nonadjacent dependencies.

Conclusions

These findings, together with previous findings from English-speaking adults and adolescents with language impairments, suggest that individuals with atypical language development, regardless of age, diagnostic status, language, and culture, show difficulties in learning nonadjacent dependencies. This study provides evidence for early impairments to statistical learning in individuals with atypical language development.
Weaknesses in Lexical-Semantic Knowledge Among College Students With Specific Learning Disabilities: Evidence From a Semantic Fluency Task
Authors: Hall Jessica , McGregor Karla K. , Oleson Jacob
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to determine whether deficits in executive function and lexical-semantic memory compromise the linguistic performance of young adults with specific learning disabilities (LD) enrolled in postsecondary studies.

Method

One hundred eighty-five students with LD (
n
= 53) or normal language development (ND,
n
= 132) named items in the categories
animals
and
food
for 1 minute for each category and completed tests of lexical-semantic knowledge and executive control of memory. Groups were compared on total names, mean cluster size, frequency of embedded clusters, frequency of cluster switches, and change in fluency over time. Secondary analyses of variability within the LD group were also conducted.

Results

The LD group was less fluent than the ND group. Within the LD group, lexical-semantic knowledge predicted semantic fluency and cluster size; executive control of memory predicted semantic fluency and cluster switches. The LD group produced smaller clusters and fewer embedded clusters than the ND group. Groups did not differ in switching or change over time.

Conclusions

Deficits in the lexical-semantic system associated with LD may persist into young adulthood, even among those who have managed their disability well enough to attend college. Lexical-semantic deficits are associated with compromised semantic fluency, and the two problems are more likely among students with more severe disabilities.
Effects of non‐sinusoidal current on current division, ampacity and magnetic field of parallel power cables
Authors: Rasoulpoor Masoumeh , Mirzaie Mohammad , Mirimani Seyyed Mehdi
Published: March 2017

The current distribution, ampacity and magnetic field of parallel power cables are calculated. The calculations are performed in both sinusoidal and harmonic current profiles. The simulations are conducted on the underground medium voltage cables with metallic sheaths. The effects of single‐point bonding and solid bonding of sheaths grounding system are evaluated. In this study, cables are installed in flat formation with three cables in each phase and the effect of different distances between cables on the parallel cables parameters is studied. Computations are conducted for all possible arrangements of parallel cables and the worst and the best arrangements from the point of balancing current division, maximum ampacity and minimum magnetic field are presented. Furthermore, the effects of placing parallel cables in one row or two rows above each other are investigated. Calculations of current distribution and magnetic field are performed using the sub‐conductors method that considers the skin and proximity effects. Finite element method thermal simulations are excited to determine the power cable ampacity in different configurations. Experimental tests on parallel cables in both single‐point bonding and solid bonding systems are carried out and the results verify the accuracy of simulations.
Willing interpreters and receivers: American alumni of the Japan exchange and teaching (JET) program
Authors: Metzgar Emily
Published: March 2017

Established in 1987, the Japanese government’s Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program has generated more than 60,000 alumni worldwide, half of them Americans. Coalescing over three decades, the American JET alumni community offers a compelling example of how the creation of “willing interpreters and receivers” (Nye) through an international exchange program can yield benefits for both sponsors and participants. Focused on the American JET alumni community’s composition and its efforts to organize into an independent actor in its own right, this paper offers insight into a large-scale effort to promote soft power in the context of the strategically important US—Japan relationship. This article is published as part of a collection on soft power.
IUPAC-NIST Solubility Data Series. 89. Alkali Metal Nitrates. Part 2. Sodium Nitrate
Authors: Eysseltová Jitka , Zbranek Vladimír , Skripkin Mikhail Yurievich , Sawada Kiyoshi , Tepavitcharova Stefka
Published: March 2017

The solubility data at 1 bar or saturation pressure for sodium nitrate are reviewed. Where appropriate, binary, ternary, and multicomponent systems are critically evaluated. The solubility results were obtained in water or aqueous solutions. All data were critically examined for their reliability. The best values were selected on the basis of critical evaluations and presented in tabular form. Fitting equations and plots are also provided. The quantities, units, and symbols used are in accord with IUPAC recommendations. The original data have been reported and, if necessary, transferred into the units and symbols recommended by IUPAC. The literature on solubility data was researched through 2014.
Comparing kinetic Monte Carlo and thin-film modeling of transversal instabilities of ridges on patterned substrates
Authors: Tewes Walter , Buller Oleg , Heuer Andreas , Thiele Uwe , Gurevich Svetlana V.
Published: March 2017

We employ kinetic Monte Carlo (KMC) simulations and a thin-film continuum model to comparatively study the transversal (i.e., Plateau-Rayleigh) instability of ridges formed by molecules on pre-patterned substrates. It is demonstrated that the evolution of the occurring instability qualitatively agrees between the two models for a single ridge as well as for two weakly interacting ridges. In particular, it is shown for both models that the instability occurs on well defined length and time scales which are, for the KMC model, significantly larger than the intrinsic scales of thermodynamic fluctuations. This is further evidenced by the similarity of dispersion relations characterizing the linear instability modes.
Optoelectronic devices, plasmonics, and photonics with topological insulators
Authors: Politano Antonio , Viti Leonardo , Vitiello Miriam S.
Published: March 2017

Topological insulators are innovative materials with semiconducting bulk together with surface states forming a Dirac cone, which ensure metallic conduction in the surface plane. Therefore, topological insulators represent an ideal platform for optoelectronics and photonics. The recent progress of science and technology based on topological insulators enables the exploitation of their huge application capabilities. Here, we review the recent achievements of optoelectronics, photonics, and plasmonics with topological insulators. Plasmonic devices and photodetectors based on topological insulators in a wide energy range, from terahertz to the ultraviolet, promise outstanding impact. Furthermore, the peculiarities, the range of applications, and the challenges of the emerging fields of topological photonics and thermo-plasmonics are discussed.
In silico modeling and investigation of self-heating effects in composite nano cantilever biosensors with integrated piezoresistors
Authors: Mathew Ribu , Ravi Sankar A.
Published: March 2017

Over the years, piezoresistive nano cantilever sensors have been extensively investigated for various biological sensing applications. Piezoresistive cantilever sensor is a composite structure with different materials constituting its various layers. Design and modeling of such sensors become challenging since their response is governed by the interplay between their geometrical and constituent material parameters. Even though, piezoresistive nano cantilever biosensors have several advantages, they suffer from a limitation in the form of self-heating induced inaccuracy which is seldom considered in design stages. Although, a few simplified mathematical models have been reported which incorporate the self-heating effect, several assumptions made in the modeling stages result in inaccuracy in predicting sensor terminal response. In this paper, we model and investigate the effect of self-heating on the thermo-electro-mechanical response of piezoresistive cantilever sensors as a function of the relative geometries of the piezoresistor and the cantilever platform. Finite element method (FEM) based numerical computations are used to model the target-receptor interactions induced surface stress response in steady state and maximize the electrical sensitivity to thermal sensitivity ratio of the sensor. Simulation results show that the conduction mode of heat transfer is the dominant heat transfer mechanism. Furthermore, the isolation and immobilization layers play a critical role in determining the thermal sensitivity of the sensor. It is found that the shorter and wider cantilever platforms are more suitable to reduce self-heating induced inaccuracies. In addition, results depict that the piezoresistor width plays a more dominant role in determining the thermal drift induced inaccuracies compared to the piezoresistor length. It is found that for surface stress sensors at large piezoresistor width, the electrical sensitivity to thermal sensitivity ratio improves.
Interaction and propagation characteristics of two counter and co-propagating Mach cones in a dusty plasma
Authors: Bandyopadhyay P. , Dey R. , Sen A.
Published: March 2017

We theoretically investigate the interaction and propagation characteristics of two co/counter propagating Mach cones triggered by two projectile particles moving with supersonic velocities in the same/opposite directions through a dusty plasma medium. The Mach cone solutions are obtained by solving a model set of fluid equations for a heavily charged dust fluid that includes the contributions of the projectile particles in the Poisson equation. The density profiles and velocity vector maps of the Mach wings show interesting structural changes when they interact with each other and form patterns similar to interference fringes. Compared to the co-propagating Mach cones, the wings of counter propagating Mach cones produce a larger number of maxima and minima in the pattern resulting from their mutual interaction. In addition, the time duration of the formation of two maxima or minima at a particular point decreases due to the interactions of Mach cones. Another notable feature is that the spacing between adjacent maxima increases, while the fringe angle decreases with the increase of relative velocity of the counter propagating projectile particles.
Extraordinary tunability of high-frequency devices using Hf0.3Zr0.7O2 ferroelectric at very low applied voltages
Authors: Dragoman Mircea , Aldrigo Martino , Modreanu Mircea , Dragoman Daniela
Published: March 2017

This paper presents the applications of the Hf0.3Zr0.7O2 ferroelectric with a thickness of 10 nm for tuning high-frequency devices such as filters, phase shifters, and phased antenna arrays in the X band when the low bias voltages in the range −3 V–+3 V are applied. In this respect, we show that a bandpass filter shifts its central frequency located at 10 GHz with 3 GHz, a phase shifter produces a phase difference of about 60 degrees in the X band, while the antenna array formed by two patched antennas is steering its lobe with ±32° at 10 GHz. These results open the way for the tunability of high frequency devices for very low power applications, which represent one of the most challenging issues in applied physics.
Thermally tunable water-substrate broadband metamaterial absorbers
Authors: Pang Yongqiang , Wang Jiafu , Cheng Qiang , Xia Song , Zhou Xiao Yang , Xu Zhuo , Cui Tie Jun , Qu Shaobo
Published: March 2017

The naturally occurring water has frequency dispersive permittivity at microwave frequencies and thus is a promising constituent material for broadband absorbers. Here, we develop water as the dielectric spacer in the substrate of metal-backed metamaterial (MM) absorbers. The designed substrate is a hybrid of water and a low-permittivity dielectric material. Such a design allows tight packaging of water and easy fabrication of the absorber. We obtain broadband absorption at temperatures of interest by designing the hybrid substrate and MM inclusions. Additionally, the absorption performance of the water-substrate MM absorbers could be tunable according to the environment temperature. We experimentally demonstrate the broadband and thermally tunable absorption performance. We expect that water could replace dielectric layers in other structural MM absorbers to achieve the broadband and thermally tunable absorption performance.
High-Q nested resonator in an actively stabilized optomechanical cavity
Authors: Buters F. M. , Heeck K. , Eerkens H. J. , Weaver M. J. , Luna F. , de Man S. , Bouwmeester D.
Published: March 2017

Experiments involving micro- and nanomechanical resonators need to be carefully designed to reduce mechanical environmental noise. A small scale on-chip approach is to add a resonator to the system as a mechanical low-pass filter. However, the inherent low frequency of the low-pass filter causes the system to be easily excited mechanically. We solve this problem by applying active feedback to the resonator, thereby minimizing the motion with respect to the front mirror of an optomechanical cavity. Not only does this method actively stabilize the cavity length but it also retains the on-chip vibration isolation.
Proton focusing driven by laser triggered Coulomb explosion
Authors: Wang W. Q. , Yin Y. , Zou D. B. , Yu T. P. , Ge Z. Y. , Xu H. , Zhuo H. B. , Shao F. Q.
Published: March 2017

A mechanism of the acceleration and focusing of quasi-monoenergetic proton beams from a thin arched carbon-hydrogen target irradiated by a relativistic-intensity laser pulse is investigated by multi-dimensional particle-in-cell (PIC) simulations. As an intense linearly polarized laser pulse impinges on the thin target, a considerable number of electrons are evacuated, leading to Coulomb explosion in the excess positive charges left behind. Accompanying with the acceleration, the protons are focused ballistically in the Coulomb field, which is mainly contributed by the carbon ions. It is demonstrated that a quasi-monoenergetic proton bunch with the energy-density as high as 1017 J/m3 is produced by using a laser pulse with the intensity of 1021 W/cm2. An analytical model is proposed to predict the proton energy and the focal position, which is fairly consistent with PIC simulations.
A novel PM motor with hybrid PM excitation and asymmetric rotor structure for high torque performance
Authors: Xu Gaohong , Liu Guohai , Du Xinxin , Bian Fangfang
Published: March 2017

This paper proposes a novel permanent magnet (PM) motor for high torque performance, in which hybrid PM material and asymmetric rotor design are applied. The hybrid PM material is adopted to reduce the consumption of rare-earth PM because ferrite PM is assisted to enhance the torque production. Meanwhile, the rotor structure is designed to be asymmetric by shifting the surface-insert PM (SPM), which is used to improve the torque performance, including average torque and torque ripple. Moreover, the reasons for improvement of the torque performance are explained by evaluation and analysis of the performances of the proposed motor. Compared with SPM motor and V-type motor, the merit of high utilization ratio of rare-earth PM is also confirmed, showing that the proposed motor can offer higher torque density and lower torque ripple simultaneously with less consumption of rare-earth PM.
Multisensor-integrated organs-on-chips platform for automated and continual in situ monitoring of organoid behaviors
Authors: Zhang Yu Shrike , Aleman Julio , Shin Su Ryon , Kilic Tugba , Kim Duckjin , Mousavi Shaegh Seyed Ali , Massa Solange , Riahi Reza , Chae Sukyoung , Hu Ning , Avci Huseyin , Zhang Weijia , Silvestri Antonia , Sanati Nezhad Amir , Manbohi Ahmad , De Ferrari Fabio , Polini Alessandro , Calzone Giovanni , Shaikh Noor , Alerasool Parissa , Budina Erica , Kang Jian , Bhise Nupura , Ribas João , Pourmand Adel , Skardal Aleksander , Shupe Thomas , Bishop Colin E. , Dokmeci Mehmet Remzi , Atala Anthony , Khademhosseini Ali
Published: March 2017

Significance

Monitoring human organ-on-a-chip systems presents a significant challenge, where the capability of in situ continual monitoring of organ behaviors and their responses to pharmaceutical compounds over extended periods of time is critical in understanding the dynamics of drug effects and therefore accurate prediction of human organ reactions. In this work, we report a fully integrated modular physical, biochemical, and optical sensing platform, interfaced through a fluidics-routing breadboard with a multi–organ-on-a-chip system to achieve in situ, continual, and automated sensing of microenvironment biophysical and biochemical parameters. It is anticipated that our platform technology that is conveniently compatible with existing organ-on-a-chip models will potentially enhance their performance in drug screening by providing a multitude of sensing data not previously available.
miR-285–
Yki/Mask double-negative feedback loop mediates blood–brain barrier integrity in
Drosophila
Authors: Li Dong , Liu Yanling , Pei Chunli , Zhang Peng , Pan Linqing , Xiao Jing , Meng Songshu , Yuan Zengqiang , Bi Xiaolin
Published: March 2017

Significance

The blood–brain barrier (BBB) is evolutionarily conserved from invertebrates to vertebrates to ensure a well-balanced ionic environment for proper neuronal functions. The Hippo pathway is a highly conserved signaling pathway essential for organ size control and tissue homeostasis. Until now, whether Hippo pathway is required for BBB maintenance has been unknown. We show here that
miR-285
is an upstream regulator of the Hippo pathway, which can directly target Yorkie (Yki) cofactor Multiple Ankyrin repeats Single KH domain (Mask).
miR-285
and Yki/Mask form a double-negative feedback loop to finely tune endoreplication of subperineurial glial (SPG) cells to keep proper cell size and maintain a functional BBB. Our findings propose an exquisite microRNA-mediated regulatory circuit that regulates Hippo signaling activity and tissue homeostasis during development.
Stepwise unfolding supports a subunit model for vertebrate kinetochores
Authors: Vargiu Giulia , Makarov Alexandr A. , Allan James , Fukagawa Tatsuo , Booth Daniel G. , Earnshaw William C.
Published: March 2017

Significance

During cell division, microtubules apply piconewton forces to segregate duplicated chromosomes into daughter cells. The kinetochore, located on the surface of the centromere chromatin, couples microtubules to the chromosomes. Little is known about the folding of the centromeric chromatin and how this templates the functional ultrastructure of the kinetochore. To better understand this fundamental problem, we used a microscopy technique that allowed the DNA associated with centromeric chromatin to be unfolded and accurately measured in the presence and absence of several key kinetochore components. By combining this microscopy method with statistical analysis of the unfolded chromatin fibers, we acquired data that allowed a subunit model of the kinetochore chromatin to be proposed.