bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bilingual Cortical Control of Between- and Within-Language Competition
Authors: Marian Viorica , Bartolotti James , Rochanavibhata Sirada , Bradley Kailyn , Hernandez Arturo E.
Published: September 2017

The human capacity to master multiple languages is remarkable and leads to structural and functional changes in the brain. Understanding how the brain accommodates multiple languages simultaneously is crucial to developing a complete picture of our species’ linguistic capabilities. To examine the neural mechanisms involved in processing two languages, we looked at cortical activation in Spanish-English bilinguals in response to phonological competition either between two languages or within a language. Participants recognized spoken words in a visual world task while their brains were scanned using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Results revealed that between-language competition recruited a larger network of frontal control and basal ganglia regions than within-language competition. Bilinguals also recruited more neural resources to manage between-language competition from the dominant language compared to competition from the less dominant language. Additionally, bilinguals’ activation of the basal ganglia was inversely correlated with their executive function ability, suggesting that bilinguals compensated for lower levels of cognitive control by recruiting a broader neural network to manage more difficult tasks. These results provide evidence for differences in neural responses to linguistic competition between versus within languages, and demonstrate the brain’s remarkable plasticity, where language experience can change neural processing.
Health amongst former rugby union players: A cross-sectional study of morbidity and health-related quality of life
Authors: Davies Madeleine A. M. , D. Judge Andrew , Delmestri Antonella , P.T. Kemp Simon , Stokes Keith A. , Arden Nigel K. , Newton Julia L.
Published: September 2017

In the general population, physical activity is associated with improved health outcomes. However, long-term sports participation may be associated with adverse outcomes, particularly at the elite level. The aims of this study were to assess morbidity and health-related quality of life (HrQoL) amongst former rugby players, compared to an age-standardised general population sample. A cross-sectional study of former elite, male, rugby players (n = 259) was undertaken, and standardised morbidity ratios (SMR) calculated, assessing morbidity prevalence relative to English Longitudinal Study of Aging participants (ELSA, n = 5186). HrQoL, measured using the EQ-5D, was compared to a Health Survey for England (HSE, n = 2981) sample. In SMR analyses of participants aged 50+, diabetes was significantly lower amongst former players, (0.28, 95% CI 0.11–0.66), whereas osteoarthritis (4.00, 95% CI 3.32–4.81), joint replacement (6.02, 95% CI 4.66–7.77), osteoporosis (2.69, 95% CI 1.35–5.38), and anxiety (2.00, 95% CI 1.11–3.61) were significantly higher. More problems in HrQoL were reported amongst former players within the domains of mobility (p < 0.001), self-care (p = 0.041), usual activities (p < 0.001) and pain/discomfort (p < 0.001). Morbidity and HrQoL differ between players and the general population, with higher musculoskeletal morbidity and lower diabetes amongst former players. The magnitude of musculoskeletal morbidity may warrant proactive osteoarthritis management within this population.
Comprehensive analysis of lncRNAs and mRNAs in skeletal muscle of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) exposed to estradiol
Authors: Wang Jian , Koganti Prasanthi P. , Yao Jianbo , Wei Shuo , Cleveland Beth
Published: September 2017

Estradiol (E2) is a steroid hormone that negatively affects muscle growth in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), but the mechanisms directing with this response are not fully understood. To better characterize the effects of E2 in muscle, we identified differentially regulated mRNAs and lncRNAs in juvenile rainbow trout exposed to E2. Here, we performed next-generation RNA sequencing and comprehensive bioinformatics analyses to characterize the transcriptome profiles, including mRNAs and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), in skeletal muscle of rainbow trout injected with E2. A total of 226 lncRNAs and 253 mRNAs were identified as differentially regulated. We identified crucial pathways, including several signal transduction pathways, hormone response, oxidative response and protein, carbon and fatty acid metabolism pathways. Subsequently, a functional lncRNA-mRNA co-expression network was constructed, which consisted of 681 co-expression relationships between 164 lncRNAs and 201 mRNAs. Moreover, a lncRNA-pathway network was constructed. A total of 65 key lncRNAs were identified that regulate 20 significantly enriched pathways. Overall, our analysis provides insights into mRNA and lncRNA networks in rainbow trout skeletal muscle and their regulation by E2 while understanding the molecular mechanism of lncRNAs.
Short chain fatty acids ameliorate immune-mediated uveitis partially by altering migration of lymphocytes from the intestine
Authors: Nakamura Yukiko K. , Janowitz Cathleen , Metea Christina , Asquith Mark , Karstens Lisa , Rosenbaum James T. , Lin Phoebe
Published: September 2017

Short chain fatty acids (SCFA) are metabolites of intestinal bacteria resulting from fermentation of dietary fiber. SCFA are protective in various animal models of inflammatory disease. We investigated the effects of exogenous administration of SFCAs, particularly propionate, on uveitis using an inducible model of experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU). Oral SCFA administration attenuated uveitis severity in a mouse strain-dependent manner through regulatory T cell induction among lymphocytes in the intestinal lamina propria (LPL) and cervical lymph nodes (CLN). SCFA also suppressed effector T cell induction in the CLN and mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN). Alterations in intestinal morphology and gene expression demonstrated in the EAU model prior to the onset of uveitis were blunted by oral SCFA administration. Using a Kaede transgenic mouse, we demonstrated enhanced leukocyte trafficking between the intestine and the eye in EAU. Propionate suppressed T effector cell migration between the intestine and the spleen in EAU Kaede mice. In conclusion, our findings support exogenous administration of SCFAs as a potential treatment strategy for uveitis through the stabilization of subclinical intestinal alterations that occur in inflammatory diseases including uveitis, as well as prevention of trafficking of leukocytes between the gastrointestinal tract and extra-intestinal tissues.
Infection of microglia with Porphyromonas gingivalis promotes cell migration and an inflammatory response through the gingipain-mediated activation of protease-activated receptor-2 in mice
Authors: Liu Yicong , Wu Zhou , Nakanishi Yurika , Ni Junjun , Hayashi Yoshinori , Takayama Fumiko , Zhou Yanmin , Kadowaki Tomoko , Nakanishi Hiroshi
Published: September 2017

Despite a clear correlation between periodontitis and cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s disease, the precise mechanism underlying the relationship remains unclear. The periodontal pathogen Porphyromonas gingivalis produces a unique class of cysteine proteinases termed gingipains that comprises Arg-gingipain (Rgp) and Lys-gingipain (Kgp). Rgp and Kgp are important in the bacterial mediated host cell responses and the subsequent intracellular signaling in infected cells. In the present study, we attempted to clarify the potential effects of Rgp and Kgp on the cellular activation of brain-resident microglia. We provide the first evidence that Rgp and Kgp cooperatively contribute to the P. gingivalis-induced cell migration and expression of proinflammatory mediators through the activation of protease-activated receptor 2. The subsequent activation of phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Akt and mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) kinase/ERK pathways contributes to cell migration and inflammatory response of microglia.
Quantitative trait loci responsible for sharp eyespot resistance in common wheat CI12633
Authors: Wu Xujiang , Cheng Kai , Zhao Renhui , Zang Shujiang , Bie Tongde , Jiang Zhengning , Wu Ronglin , Gao Derong , Zhang Boqiao
Published: September 2017

Sharp eyespot is a major fungal disease of wheat caused by Rhizoctonia cerealis in cool and humid environments worldwide. In this study, 224 single seed descent derived F13, F14 and F15 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) from the cross between CI12633 (a resistant cultivar) and Yangmai 9 (a susceptible cultivar) were assessed for sharp eyespot resistance (R.cerealis isolate R0301) in field and greenhouse conditions in three growing seasons. Different agronomic characteristics were also evaluated in the field with no disease infection. All the lines were genotyped with the Illumina iSelect 90 K SNP wheat chip and 101 SSR markers. Sharp eyespot resistance was significantly negatively correlated with heading date and tiller angle, and significantly positively correlated with the diameter of the basal first internode and second internode. Five QTL with a likelihood of odds ratio score of higher than 3.0 were detected on chromosomes 2BS, 4BS, 5AL and 5BS, respectively. These identified QTL may be used in future wheat breeding programs through marker assisted selection for developing sharp eyespot resistant cultivars.
Towards Addressing the Body Electrolyte Environment via Sweat Analysis:Pilocarpine Iontophoresis Supports Assessment of Plasma Potassium Concentration
Authors: Vairo Donato , Bruzzese Laurie , Marlinge Marion , Fuster Lea , Adjriou Nabil , Kipson Nathalie , Brunet Philippe , Cautela Jennifer , Jammes Yves , Mottola Giovanna , Burtey Stephane , Ruf Jean , Guieu Regis , Fenouillet Emmanuel
Published: September 2017

Electrolyte concentration in sweat depends on environmental context and physical condition but also on the pathophysiological status. Sweat analyzers may be therefore the future way for biological survey although how sweat electrolyte composition can reflect plasma composition remains unclear. We recruited 10 healthy subjects and 6 patients to have a broad range of plasma electrolyte concentrations (chloride, potassium and sodium) and pH. These variables were compared to those found in sweat produced following cycling exercise or pilocarpine iontophoresis, a condition compatible with operating a wearable device. We found no correlation between plasma and sweat parameters when exercise-induced sweat was analyzed, and we could identify a correlation only between plasma and sweat potassium concentration (R = 0.78, p < 0.01) when sweat was induced using pilocarpine iontophoresis. We tested measurement repeatability in sweat at 24hr-interval for 3 days in 4 subjects and found a great intra-individual variability regarding all parameters in exercise-induced sweat whereas similar electrolyte levels were measured in pilocarpine-induced sweat. Thus, electrolyte concentration in sweat sampled following physical activity does not reflect concentration in plasma while pilocarpine iontophoresis appears to be promising to reproducibly address sweat electrolytes, and to make an indirect evaluation of plasma potassium concentration in chronic kidney disease and arrhythmia.
Controllable Moderate Heating Enhances the Therapeutic Efficacy of Irreversible Electroporation for Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Edelblute Chelsea M. , Hornef James , Burcus Niculina I. , Norman Thomas , Beebe Stephen J. , Schoenbach Karl , Heller Richard , Jiang Chunqi , Guo Siqi
Published: September 2017

Irreversible electroporation (IRE) as a non-thermal tumor ablation technology has been studied for the treatment of pancreatic carcinoma and has shown a significant survival benefit. We discovered that moderate heating (MH) at 43 °C for 1-2 minutes significantly enhanced ex vivo IRE tumor ablation of Pan02 cells by 5.67-fold at 750 V/cm and by 1.67-fold at 1500 V/cm. This amount of heating alone did not cause cell death. An integrated IRE system with controllable laser heating and tumor impedance monitoring was developed to treat mouse ectopic pancreatic cancer. With this novel IRE system, we were able to heat and maintain the temperature of a targeted tumor area at 42 °C during IRE treatment. Pre-heating the tumor greatly reduced the impedance of tumor and its fluctuation. Most importantly, MHIRE has been demonstrated to significantly extend median survival and achieve a high rate of complete tumor regression. Median survival was 43, 46 and 84 days, for control, IRE with 100 μs, 1 Hz, 90 pulses and electric fields 2000–2500 V/cm and MHIRE treatment respectively. 55.6% of tumor-bearing mice treated with MHIRE were tumor-free, whereas complete tumor regression was not observed in the control and IRE treatment groups.
Insights into the functionality of endophytic actinobacteria with a focus on their biosynthetic potential and secondary metabolites production
Authors: Passari Ajit Kumar , Mishra Vineet Kumar , Singh Garima , Singh Pratibha , Kumar Brijesh , Gupta Vijai Kumar , Sarma Rupak Kumar , Saikia Ratul , Donovan Anthonia O’. , Singh Bhim Pratap
Published: September 2017

Endophytic actinobacteria play an important role in growth promotion and development of host plant by producing enormous quantities of novel bioactive natural products. In the present investigation, 169 endophytic actinobacteria were isolated from endospheric tissues ofRhynchotoechum ellipticum. Based on their antimicrobial potential, 81 strains were identified by 16rRNA gene analysis, which were taxonomically grouped into 15 genera. All identified strains were screened for their plant growth promoting attributes and, for the presence of modular polyketide synthases (PKSI, PKSII and nonribosomal peptide synthetase (NRPS) gene clusters to correlate the biosynthetic genes with their functional properties. Expression studies and antioxidant potential for four representative strains were evaluated using qRT-PCR and DPPH assay respectively. Additionally, six antibiotics (erythromycin, ketoconazole, fluconazole, chloramphenicol, rifampicin and miconazole) and nine phenolic compounds (catechin, kaempferol, chebulagic acid, chlorogenic acid, Asiatic acid, ferulic acid, arjunic acid, gallic acid and boswellic acid) were detected and quantified using UHPLC-QqQLIT-MS/MS. Furthermore, three strains (BPSAC77, 121 and 101) showed the presence of the anticancerous compound paclitaxel which was reported for the first time from endophytic actinobacteria. This study provides a holistic picture, that endophytic actinobacteria are rich bacterial resource for bioactive natural products, which has a great prospective in agriculture and pharmaceutical industries.
α-SNAP is expressed in mouse ovarian granulosa cells and plays a key role in folliculogenesis and female fertility
Authors: Arcos Alexis , de Paola Matilde , Gianetti Diego , Acuña Diego , Velásquez Zahady D. , Miró María Paz , Toro Gabriela , Hinrichsen Bryan , Muñoz Rosa Iris , Lin Yimo , Mardones Gonzalo A. , Ehrenfeld Pamela , Rivera Francisco J. , Michaut Marcela A. , Batiz Luis Federico
Published: September 2017

The balance between ovarian folliculogenesis and follicular atresia is critical for female fertility and is strictly regulated by a complex network of neuroendocrine and intra-ovarian signals. Despite the numerous functions executed by granulosa cells (GCs) in ovarian physiology, the role of multifunctional proteins able to simultaneously coordinate/modulate several cellular pathways is unclear. Soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor (NSF) attachment protein (α-SNAP) is a multifunctional protein that participates in SNARE-mediated membrane fusion events. In addition, it regulates cell-to-cell adhesion, AMPK signaling, autophagy and apoptosis in different cell types. In this study we examined the expression pattern of α-SNAP in ovarian tissue and the consequences of α-SNAP (M105I) mutation (hyh mutation) in folliculogenesis and female fertility. Our results showed that α-SNAP protein is highly expressed in GCs and its expression is modulated by gonadotropin stimuli. On the other hand, α-SNAP-mutant mice show a reduction in α-SNAP protein levels. Moreover, increased apoptosis of GCs and follicular atresia, reduced ovulation rate, and a dramatic decline in fertility is observed in α-SNAP-mutant females. In conclusion, α-SNAP plays a critical role in the balance between follicular development and atresia. Consequently, a reduction in its expression/function (M105I mutation) causes early depletion of ovarian follicles and female subfertility.
Residual Ammonium Persulfate in Nanoparticles Has Cytotoxic Effects on Cells through Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition
Authors: Song Chen , Wang Leyu , Ye Genlan , Song Xiaoping , He Yutong , Qiu Xiaozhong
Published: September 2017

Ammonium persulfate (APS), a low molecular weight chemical compound with strong oxidizing properties, should to be totally removed during preparation of nanomaterials due to its cytotoxicity. APS exerts its oxidative stress effects mainly on cell membrane, but its intracellular influence remains unclear. Here, we designed a facile negatively-charged carboxylic gelatin-methyacrylate (carbox-GelMA) nanoparticle (NP) as a cargo-carrier through the catalytic and oxidizing action of APS in W/O system. The formed APS-loaded carbox-GelMA NPs (APS/NPs) were transported into the lysosome in MCF-7 breast cancer cells. The intracellular APS/NPs produced a high level of oxidative stress in lysosome and induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Consequently, the MCF-7 cells challenged with APS/NPs had a strong metastatic and invasive capability in vitro and in vivo. This study highlights that a facile APS-loaded nanocarrier has cyctotoxicity on cells through EMT. Unexpectedly, we found a novel pathway inducing EMT via lysosomal oxidative stress.
Discovery, Semisynthesis, Antiparasitic and Cytotoxic Evaluation of 14-Membered Resorcylic Acid Lactones and Their Derivatives
Authors: Zhang Xue-Qing , Spadafora Carmenza , Pineda Laura M. , Ng Michelle G. , Sun Ji-Hong , Wang Wei , Wang Chang-Yun , Gu Yu-Cheng , Shao Chang-Lun
Published: September 2017

Ten antifouling 14-membered resorcylic acid lactones 1–10 were isolated previously with low or trace natural abundance from the zoanthid-derived Cochliobolus lunatus fungus. Further optimization of fermentation conditions led to the isolation of two major natural compounds 7 and 8 with multi-gram quantities. By one or two steps, we semisynthesized the six trace natural compounds 1–6 and a series of derivatives 11–27 of compounds 7 and 8 with high yields (65–95%). Compounds 11–13 showed strong antiplasmodial activity against Plasmodium falciparum with IC50 values of 1.84, 8.36, and 6.95 μM, respectively. Very importantly, 11 and 12 were non-toxic with very safety and high therapeutic indices (CC50/IC50 > 180), and thus representing potential promising leads for antiplasmodial drug discovery. Furthermore, 11 was the only compound showed obvious antileishmanial activity against Leishmania donovani with an IC50 value of 9.22 μM. Compounds 11 and 12 showed the values of IC50 at 11.9 and 17.2 μM against neglected Chagas’ disease causing Trypanosoma cruzi, respectively.
Resolving the phylogenetic origin of glioblastoma via multifocal genomic analysis of pre-treatment and treatment-resistant autopsy specimens
Authors: Brastianos Priscilla K. , Nayyar Naema , Rosebrock Daniel , Leshchiner Ignaty , Gill Corey M. , Livitz Dimitri , Bertalan Mia S. , D’Andrea Megan , Hoang Kaitlin , Aquilanti Elisa , Chukwueke Ugonma N. , Kaneb Andrew , Chi Andrew , Plotkin Scott , Gerstner Elizabeth R. , Frosch Mathew P. , Suva Mario L. , Cahill Daniel P. , Getz Gad , Batchelor Tracy T.
Published: September 2017

Glioblastomas are malignant neoplasms composed of diverse cell populations. This intratumoral diversity has an underlying architecture, with a hierarchical relationship through clonal evolution from a common ancestor. Therapies are limited by emergence of resistant subclones from this phylogenetic reservoir. To characterize this clonal ancestral origin of recurrent tumors, we determined phylogenetic relationships using whole exome sequencing of pre-treatment IDH1/2 wild-type glioblastoma specimens, matched to post-treatment autopsy samples (n = 9) and metastatic extracranial post-treatment autopsy samples (n = 3). We identified “truncal” genetic events common to the evolutionary ancestry of the initial specimen and later recurrences, thereby inferring the identity of the precursor cell population. Mutations were identified in a subset of cases in known glioblastoma genes such as NF1(n = 3), TP53(n = 4) and EGFR(n = 5). However, by phylogenetic analysis, there were no protein-coding mutations as recurrent truncal events across the majority of cases. In contrast, whole copy-loss of chromosome 10 (12 of 12 cases), copy-loss of chromosome 9p21 (11 of 12 cases) and copy-gain in chromosome 7 (10 of 12 cases) were identified as shared events in the majority of cases. Strikingly, mutations in the TERT promoter were also identified as shared events in all evaluated pairs (9 of 9). Thus, we define four truncal non-coding genomic alterations that represent early genomic events in gliomagenesis, that identify the persistent cellular reservoir from which glioblastoma recurrences emerge. Therapies to target these key early genomic events are needed. These findings offer an evolutionary explanation for why precision therapies that target protein-coding mutations lack efficacy in GBM.
The therapeutic potential of resveratrol: a review of clinical trials
Authors: Berman Adi Y. , Motechin Rachel A. , Wiesenfeld Maia Y. , Holz Marina K.
Published: September 2017

Resveratrol is a nutraceutical with several therapeutic effects. It has been shown to mimic effects of caloric restriction, exert anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects, and affect the initiation and progression of many diseases through several mechanisms. While there is a wealth of in vitro and in vivo evidence that resveratrol could be a promising therapeutic agent, clinical trials must confirm its potential. In this work, we reviewed the current clinical data available regarding the pharmacological action of resveratrol. Most of the clinical trials of resveratrol have focused on cancer, neurological disorders, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and obesity. We found that for neurological disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes, the current clinical trials show that resveratrol was well tolerated and beneficially influenced disease biomarkers. However resveratrol had ambiguous and sometimes even detrimental effects in certain types of cancers and in NAFLD. In most of the clinical trials, the major obstacle presented was resveratrol’s poor bioavailability. Thus, this work provides useful considerations for the planning and design of future pre-clinical and clinical research on resveratrol.
tert-Butylation of naphthalene by tertiary butanol over HY zeolite and cerium-modified HY catalysts
Authors: Huang Zhihua , Zhang Jie , Li Peidong , Xu Lanjian , Zhang Xiaomin , Yuan Yangyang , Xu Lei
Published: September 2017

Cerium-modified HY catalysts exhibit a high 2,6-/2,7-DTBN ratio in naphthalene tert-butylation due to the weakened acid strength.
Rational design of Fe catalysts for olefin aziridination through DFT-based mechanistic analysis
Authors: Patra Ranjan , Coin Guillaume , Castro Ludovic , Dubourdeaux Patrick , Clémancey Martin , Pécaut Jacques , Lebrun Colette , Maldivi Pascale , Latour Jean-Marc
Published: September 2017

Experimental and DFT-based mechanistic studies are used to optimise Fe catalysts for aziridination.
Insight into the effect of incorporation of boron into ZSM-11 on its catalytic performance for conversion of methanol to olefins
Authors: Wang Sen , Li Shiying , Zhang Li , Qin Zhangfeng , Dong Mei , Li Junfen , Wang Jianguo , Fan Weibin
Published: September 2017

The MTO catalytic performance of ZSM-11 can be finely tuned by incorporating boron through regulation of aluminum location in the framework.
Quantitative evaluation and in vivo visualization of mercury ion bioaccumulation in rotifers by novel aggregation-induced emission fluorogen nanoparticles
Authors: Jiang Yusheng , He Tao , Chen Yuncong , Ruan Yinlan , Zhou Yabin , Tang Ben Zhong , Qin Jianguang , Tang Youhong
Published: September 2017

In this study, a specifically-designed AIEgen was used to quantitatively evaluate the bioaccumulation of Hg2+and visualize Hg2+kineticsin vivowithin the rotifer for the first time.
Metal–support interactions in catalysts for environmental remediation
Authors: Fujiwara Kakeru , Okuyama Kikuo , Pratsinis Sotiris E.
Published: September 2017

SMSIs in nanosilver–TiO2form visible-light active crystalline TiOxwhile SOSIs through Pd–Ox–Ti stabilize single Pd atoms on TiO2.
Identification of a suitable promoter for the sigma factor of Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Mallick Gupta A. , Mukherjee S. , Dutta A. , Mukhopadhyay J. , Bhattacharyya D. , Mandal S.
Published: September 2017

Promoter binding specificity is one of the important characteristics of transcription by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) sigma (σ) factors, which remains unexplored due to limited structural evidence.
Network-based modelling and percolation analysis of conformational dynamics and activation in the CDK2 and CDK4 proteins: dynamic and energetic polarization of the kinase lobes may determine divergence of the regulatory mechanisms
Authors: Verkhivker G. M.
Published: September 2017

Network modeling and percolation analysis of conformational dynamics and energetics of regulatory mechanisms in cyclin-dependent kinases.
Therapeutic effects of a novel siRNA-based anti-VEGF (siVEGF) nanoball for the treatment of choroidal neovascularization
Authors: Ryoo Na-Kyung , Lee Jihwang , Lee Hyunjoo , Hong Hye Kyoung , Kim Hyejin , Lee Jong Bum , Woo Se Joon , Park Kyu Hyung , Kim Hyuncheol
Published: September 2017

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in developed countries and is characterized by the development of choroidal neovascularization (CNV).
Rational design of yolk–shell silicon dioxide@hollow carbon spheres as advanced Li–S cathode hosts
Authors: Wang Ruxing , Wang Kangli , Gao Shu , Jiang Mao , Zhou Min , Cheng Shijie , Jiang Kai
Published: September 2017

Benefits from both physical barrier and chemical adsorption, the SiO2@HC/S composite exhibits excellent electrochemical properties and an extraordinary anti-self-discharge feature.
Efficient intracellular delivery of biomacromolecules employing clusters of zinc oxide nanowires
Authors: Sharma Prashant , Cho Hyun Ah , Lee Jae-Won , Ham Woo Seung , Park Bum Chul , Cho Nam-Hyuk , Kim Young Keun
Published: September 2017

Fan-shaped ZnO nanowire arrays can mediate intracellular delivery of non-covalently associated peptides and DNA.
Fabrication and characterization of a 3D bioprinted nanoparticle-hydrogel hybrid device for biomimetic detoxification
Authors: Chen Maggie S. , Zhang Yue , Zhang Liangfang
Published: September 2017

We report a 3D-bioprinted micro/nanodevice that encapsulates red blood cell membrane-coated nanoparticles with inner channels for biodetoxification.
Ensemble averaged structure–function relationship for nanocrystals: effective superparamagnetic Fe clusters with catalytically active Pt skin
Authors: Petkov Valeri , Prasai Binay , Shastri Sarvjit , Park Hyun-Uk , Kwon Young-Uk , Skumryev Vassil
Published: September 2017

Ensemble-averaged 3D positions of atoms are a very proper basis for not only establishing but also quantifying the structure–function relationship for nanocrystals.
Correction: Folic acid-functionalized up-conversion nanoparticles: toxicity studies in vivo and in vitro and targeted imaging applications
Authors: Sun Lining , Wei Zuwu , Chen Haige , Liu Jinliang , Guo Jianjian , Cao Ming , Wen Tieqiao , Shi Liyi
Published: September 2017

Correction for ‘Folic acid-functionalized up-conversion nanoparticles: toxicity studies in vivo and in vitro and targeted imaging applications’ by Lining Sun et al., Nanoscale, 2014, 6, 8878–8883.
Regulating sequence distribution of polyethers via ab initio kinetics control in anionic copolymerization
Authors: Wu Zhichao , Liu Pei , Liu Yu , Wei Wei , Zhang Xinlin , Wang Ping , Xu Zhenli , Xiong Huiming
Published: September 2017

Design principles for regulating the sequence distribution of polyethers in anionic copolymerization have been provided through kinetics studies and numerical calculation.
Lysozyme-catalyzed formation of a conjugated polyacetylene
Authors: Morris D. L. , Zampino A. P. , Taraboletti A. A. , Shriver L. P. , Leeper T. C. , Ziegler C. J.
Published: September 2017

Hen egg white lysozyme catalyzes the polymerization of 2-ethynylpyridine in water as the singular protein catalyst. This marks the first time a protein has been observed generating conjugated polymers from alkynes.
Photo, pH and redox multi-responsive nanogels for drug delivery and fluorescence cell imaging
Authors: Chen Shuo , Bian Qing , Wang Panjun , Zheng Xuewei , Lv Le , Dang Zhimin , Wang Guojie
Published: September 2017

A light, pH and redox triple-responsive spiropyran-based nanogel is prepared and applied for the efficient delivery of anticancer drugs and fluorescence cell imaging for the strong emission of merocyanine photoisomers.
Modulating interleaved ZnO assembly with CuO nanoleaves for multifunctional performance: perdurable CO2gas sensor and visible light catalyst
Authors: Joshi Shravanti , C. B. Ram Kumar , Jones Lathe A. , Mayes Edwin L. H. , Ippolito Samuel J. , Sunkara Manorama V.
Published: September 2017

Efficient CO2gas detection and visible light photocatalysis performance shown by interleaved CuO/ZnO heterostructures ascribed primarily to the high surface area, p/n nano-interfaces and catalytic role of Ag.
New AIEgens with delayed fluorescence for fluorescence imaging and fluorescence lifetime imaging of living cells
Authors: Gan Shifeng , Zhou Jian , Smith Trevor A. , Su Huifang , Luo Wenwen , Hong Yuning , Zhao Zujin , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: September 2017

New luminogens with aggregation-induced emission and delayed fluorescence features show good performance in fluorescence lifetime imaging of living cells.
Catalytic C–H amination at its limits: challenges and solutions
Authors: Hazelard Damien , Nocquet Pierre-Antoine , Compain Philippe
Published: September 2017

Pushing C–H amination to its limits fosters innovative synthetic solutions and offers a deeper understanding of the reaction mechanism and scope.
Rhodium(ii)-catalyzed intermolecular [3 + 2] annulation of N-vinyl indoles with N-tosyl-1,2,3-triazoles via an aza-vinyl Rh carbene
Authors: Jiang Bo , Shi Min
Published: September 2017

This study opens up a new synthetic approach for the construction of various functionalized indoles having a dihydropyrrole moiety from the Rh(ii)-catalyzed annulation ofN-vinyl indoles with 4-aryl-N-tosyl-1,2,3-triazoles under mild conditions.
Evaluation and optimization of a pilot-scale catalytic ozonation–persulfate oxidation integrated process for the pretreatment of dry-spun acrylic fiber wastewater
Authors: Wu Zong-wei , Xu Xiao-chen , Jiang Hong-bin , Zhang Ruo-yu , Song Shuai-nan , Zhao Chuan-qi , Yang Feng-lin
Published: September 2017

An integrated process of catalytic ozonation–persulfate oxidation was developed for the pretreatment of dry-spun acrylic fiber (DAF) wastewater on a pilot scale.
Interrogation of drug effects on HeLa cells by exploiting new AFM mechanical biomarkers
Authors: Yun Xiaoling , Tang Mingjie , Yang Zhongbo , Wilksch Jonathan J. , Xiu Peng , Gao Haiyang , Zhang Feng , Wang Huabin
Published: September 2017

New AFM mechanical biomarkers including cell brush length, adhesion work and the factor of viscosity are discovered for drug assays.
Detection of sulfenic acid in intact proteins by mass spectrometric techniques: application to serum samples
Authors: Sharar M. , Rodríguez-Solla Humberto , Linscheid M. W. , Montes-Bayón Maria
Published: September 2017

A new developed strategy for the specific detection and quantification of cysteine sulfenic acid (SA) using molecular and elemental mass spectrometric (MS) techniques.
Cascade catalytic hydrogenation–cyclization of methyl levulinate to form γ-valerolactone over Ru nanoparticles supported on a sulfonic acid-functionalized UiO-66 catalyst
Authors: Lin Zhenzhen , Cai Xiaoxiong , Fu Yanghe , Zhu Weidong , Zhang Fumin
Published: September 2017

The developed Ru/SO3H-UiO-66 exhibits a novel synergistic catalysis to upgrade methyl levulinate into γ-valerolactone under mild conditions in water.
A dual-faced interlayer prepared by electron beam evaporation for enhanced-performance lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Tang Qiong , Li Heqin , Zhang Jing , Lin Zhiwei , Pan Yuanyuan , Hu Qingzhuo , You Yu , Ye Yangwei
Published: September 2017

In this work, a dual-faced carbon paper was prepared by depositing Al2O3 on one side of carbonized filter paper via the technique of electron beam evaporation.
Magnetic properties of ordered polycrystalline FeRh thin films
Authors: Ye Jingfan , Hauke Marco , Singh Vikram , Rawat Rajeev , Gupta Mukul , Tayal Akhil , Amir S. M. , Stahn Jochen , Paul Amitesh
Published: September 2017

Metamagnetic transition in polycrystalline Fe-Rh film on Al2O3 (0001) deposited by DC magnetron sputtering.
Non-covalent functionalized hexagonal boron nitride nanoplatelets to improve corrosion and wear resistance of epoxy coatings
Authors: Cui Mingjun , Ren Siming , Qin Songlv , Xue Qunji , Zhao Haichao , Wang Liping
Published: September 2017

In the present study, a non-covalent method was employed to modify hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) nanoplateletsviaπ–π interaction of amine-capped aniline trimer (AT), which resulted in a stable dispersion of h-BN nanoplatelets in organic solvents.
Facile preparation and excellent microwave absorption properties of an RGO/Co0.33Ni0.67 lightweight absorber
Authors: Pan Hai , Xu Mingzhen , Qi Qing , Liu Xiaobo
Published: September 2017

A lightweight absorber with an ordered sandwich-like structure was fabricated using a simple one-pot solvent-thermal method and thermal reduction process.
Enhanced light out-coupling efficiency and reduced efficiency roll-off in phosphorescent OLEDs with a spontaneously distributed embossed structure formed by a spin-coating method
Authors: Yuan Shuqing , Hao Yuying , Miao Yanqin , Sun Qinjun , Li Zhanfeng , Cui Yanxia , Wang Hua , Xu Bingshe
Published: September 2017

A randomly distributed scattering structure formed by a low cost simple solution based method to enhance efficiency and reduce efficiency roll-off.
Composite with TiO2 and extension of discharge voltage range for capacity enhancement of a Li4Ti5O12 battery
Authors: Ding Meng , Liu Hui , Zhao Xiangnan , Pang Lingyan , Deng Lu , Li Mengyan
Published: September 2017

Herein, nanosheet-assembled Li4Ti5O12–TiO2 (LTO–TiO2) microspheres were successfully obtained via a hydrothermal method.
Surface plasmon resonance based competitive immunoassay for Cd2+
Authors: Kang Gai-Feng , Wang Yu-Zhen , Bai Yun-Feng , Chen Ze-Zhong , Feng Feng
Published: September 2017

In this study, a label-free, specific and sensitive surface plasmon resonance (SPR) based competitive immunoassay was used for detecting Cd2+in water samples.
Isochondodendrine and 2′-norcocsuline: additional alkaloids from Triclisia subcordata induce cytotoxicity and apoptosis in ovarian cancer cell lines
Authors: Uche Fidelia Ijeoma , Abed Mohammed N. , Abdullah Marwan I. , Drijfhout Falko P. , McCullagh James , Claridge Timothy W. D. , Richardson Alan , Li Wen-Wu
Published: September 2017

Triclisia subcordata Oliv (Menispermeaceae) is used in herbal medicine for the treatment of cancer and other diseases in Africa.
A high modulus hydrogel obtained from hydrogen bond reconstruction and its application in vibration damper
Authors: Zhu Longxiang , Qiu Jianhui , Sakai Eiichi
Published: September 2017

The cross-linking network of the hydrogel can be rearranged by evaporation-swelling treatment, the obtained hydrogel possesses an excellent vibration absorption ability and high elastic modulus.
Hydrothermal synthesis of nitrogen-doped carbon quantum dots from microcrystalline cellulose for the detection of Fe3+ ions in an acidic environment
Authors: Wu Peng , Li Wei , Wu Qiong , Liu Yushan , Liu Shouxin
Published: September 2017

Nitrogen-doped carbon quantum dots prepared with microcrystalline cellulose display excellent sensitivity to Fe3+via dynamic quenching in an acidic environment.
Fluorescent triazolium for sensing fluoride anions in semi-aqueous solution
Authors: Wang Bin-Yong , Chen Zhi-Qiang , Huang Hongwei , Cao Qian-Yong
Published: September 2017

A new triazolium-based receptor for fluorescent sensing of inorganic fluoride anions in semi-aqueous solution and the solid state was reported.
Biological and chemical guided isolation of 3,4-secograyanane diterpenoids from the roots of Pieris formosa
Authors: Niu Chang-Shan , Li Yong , Liu Yun-Bao , Ma Shuang-Gang , Liu Fei , Li Li , Xu Song , Wang Xiao-Jing , Liu Sheng , Wang Ru-Bing , Qu Jing , Yu Shi-Shan
Published: September 2017

Seventeen new 3,4-secograyanoids (1–17), together with seven known compounds (18–24), were isolated from the roots of Pieris formosa.
Fullerene C60 conjugated with phenols as new hybrid antioxidants to improve the oxidative stability of polymers at elevated temperatures
Authors: Czochara R. , Kusio J. , Litwinienko G.
Published: September 2017

Four derivatives of fullerene C60 with covalently bonded simple phenols were tested as inhibitors of oxidation of polyethylene at elevated temperatures 150–250 °C under non-isothermal conditions.
Template growth of Au, Ni and Ni–Au nanoclusters on hexagonal boron nitride/Rh(111): a combined STM, TPD and AES study
Authors: Wu Fanglue , Huang Dali , Yue Yuan , Liu Li
Published: September 2017

The unique electronic structure of hexagonal boron nitride/Rh(111) promotes the template growth of Au, Ni, and Ni–Au bimetallic nanoclusters, as well as the formation of an unusual core–shell nanostructure.
Synthesis of pyrrolo[1,2-a]quinoxalines via copper or iron-catalyzed aerobic oxidative carboamination of sp3C–H bonds
Authors: Dai Chenshu , Deng Siqi , Zhu Qiuhua , Tang Xiaodong
Published: September 2017

We developed an aerobic oxidative carboamination of sp3C–H bonds with 2-(1H-pyrrol-1-yl)anilines for synthesis of pyrrolo[1,2-a]quinoxalines.
Synthesis of 1-(2H-tetrazol-5-yl)-5-nitraminotetrazole and its derivatives from 5-aminotetrazole and cyanogen azide: a promising strategy towards the development of C–N linked bistetrazolate energetic materials
Authors: Wang Binshen , Qi Xiujuan , Zhang Wenquan , Wang Kangcai , Li Wei , Zhang Qinghua
Published: September 2017

A series of C–N linked bistetrazolate nitramino compounds were successfully prepared with excellent detonation performance coupled with moderate sensitivities.
Insight into microstructural and phase transformations in electrochemical sodiation–desodiation of a bismuth particulate anode
Authors: Lim Chek-Hai , Selvaraj Baskar , Song Yen-Fang , Wang Chun-Chieh , Jin Jian-Ting , Huang Sheng-Siang , Chuang Chung-Hsien , Sheu Hwo-Shuenn , Liao Yen-Fa , Wu Nae-Lih
Published: September 2017

In operando synchrotron X-ray analyses reveal unique delayed phase transformation and particle fracturing processes of a Bi anode for Na-ion batteries.
Impact of highly crystalline, isoindigo-based small-molecular additives for enhancing the performance of all-polymer solar cells
Authors: Cho Han-Hee , Han Gibok , Younts Robert , Lee Wonho , Gautam Bhoj R. , Lee Seungjin , Lee Changyeon , Kim Taesu , Kim Felix Sunjoo , Gundogdu Kenan , Kim Bumjoon J.
Published: September 2017

We have developed a simple yet versatile approach for enhancing the performance of all-polymer solar cells (all-PSCs) using a highly crystalline small-molecular additive, 6,6′-dithiopheneisoindigo (DTI).
Choline sensing based on in situ polymerization of aniline on the surface of upconverting nanoparticles
Authors: Li Yongxin , Yin Shuhan , Lu Yan , Zhou Huipeng , Jiang Hong , Niu Niu , Huang Hui , Zhang Ling , Lo Kenneth Kam-Wing , Yu Cong
Published: September 2017

We found that the upconversion luminescence of UCNPs could be efficiently quenched by PANI, and a novel choline detection strategy has been developed based on in situ polymerization of aniline on the surface of UCNPs.
The influence of lattice dynamics on the electronic spectrum of CoSb3skutterudite
Authors: Korotaev Pavel , Yanilkin Aleksey
Published: September 2017

Electron–phonon coupling leads to band convergence in CoSb3with increasing temperature.
Experimental evaluation of model predictive current control for a modified three‐level four‐leg indirect matrix converter
Authors: Mohamed Basri Hazrul , Mekhilef Saad
Published: September 2017

This study presents an experimental validation and robustness evaluation of predictive current control and reactive power minimisation strategy for a three‐level three‐phase four‐wire indirect matrix converter. The proposed topology features a unification of conventional four‐leg indirect matrix converter with an additional four switches circuit resembling a back‐to‐back buck circuit to synthesise multi‐level variable dual dc‐link voltage. A systematic rectifier switching strategy is elaborated to ensure positive fictitious dc‐link voltage at any instant. The proposed control and topology have been tested under various transient and steady‐state conditions for comprehensive robustness evaluation. The experimental results reveal an outstanding independent load current reference tracking with low ripple current and the reactive power minimisation has been achieved by tuning the weighting factor. The load current tracking and reactive power minimisation have been achieved by properly tuning the weighting factor. The load current harmonics distortion is recorded <5% during normal operating conditions.
Effects of voltage harmonic on losses and temperature rise in distribution transformers
Authors: Dao Thinh , Phung Bao Toan
Published: September 2017

The effects of harmonic pollution in the power system on distribution transformer losses and temperature rise have become an increasing concern. The pollution can be in the form of current and/or voltage harmonics present in the supply networks. Since the impact of voltage harmonics has hardly been investigated, this study examines the effects of distorted voltage excitation on oil‐filled distribution transformers. Short‐circuit and open‐circuit tests were conducted on two distribution transformers. The results revealed significant increase in both losses and temperature. An equation is developed to quantify the power loss. This study also derives an equation to evaluate the resistance corresponding to the eddy‐current loss.
Improved control strategy for accurate load power sharing in an autonomous microgrid
Authors: John Blessy , Ghosh Arindam , Zare Firuz , Rajakaruna Sumedha
Published: September 2017

This study proposes a decentralised droop control method for guaranteeing precise load sharing among distributed resources in an islanded microgrid. Distributed resources are usually fed through power electronic converters and the switching harmonics produced by them are eliminated by third‐order output LCL filters. Output impedance is considered as a major factor for finding exact power‐angle droop coefficient in droop design – neglecting this factor can affect the load sharing accuracy. Even though an acceptable active power sharing can be achieved with higher droop gains, increased droop gain may adversely affect the microgrid stability. Here, a modified angle droop control is proposed such that the dependence on the output inductance on the real power sharing is removed. Thus, the lower droop coefficients are sufficient for droop sharing and the system stability is not endangered. It has been assumed that the microgrid is converter‐dominated, where a proportional‐resonant controller has been utilised for converter switching control. This controller has an outer voltage loop and an inner current loop. A harmonic term has been added to the voltage loop to facilitate more accurate reactive power sharing. Simulation studies are conducted using PSCAD/EMTDC to validate the efficacy of the proposed controller.
Effects of non‐linear conductivity on charge trapping and de‐trapping behaviours in epoxy/SiC composites under DC stress
Authors: Liang Hucheng , Du Boxue , Li Jin , Li Zhonglei , Li Ang
Published: September 2017

Gas‐insulated switchgear (GIS) spacers are made of epoxy resin. However, the surface charge accumulation has been a great concern to the safe operation of GIS, which causes the frequent flashover faults on spacers. In this study, micro‐silicon carbide (SiC) particles with non‐linear conductivity were added into epoxy matrix and the filler content varied from 0 to 14 vol%. Then, the bulk conductivity and surface potential decay (SPD) tests were conducted. The obtained results showed that the epoxy/SiC composites have obvious non‐linear conductivities and the non‐linear‐conductivity threshold decreases with the increasing filler content. The addition of SiC can effectively resist the rise of surface potential and enhance the surface charge dissipation process. From the trap energy distributions, it can be inferred that the deep traps of ∼0.9 eV should be the intrinsic traps of epoxy and the shallow traps of ∼0.8 eV are considered to be introduced by SiC. Furthermore, the simulation results confirmed that the sharp increase of carrier mobility in non‐linear region significantly reduces the remaining time and possibility of a de‐trapped charge being recaptured by traps before reaching the grounded electrode. Therefore, the high conductivity in non‐linear region contributes a lot to the increase of SPD rate.
CFD simulation analysis of pneumatic splicer
Authors: Christdhas Kasthuri Berlin Jinu , Kandasamy Thangamani
Published: September 2017

Pneumatic splicing is the widely used method to join the yarn without a knot using compressed air. The function of the pneumatic splicer is to untwist and retwist the overlapped yarn ends. As the compressed air is playing vital role in pneumatic splicing, to study the effect of air flow pattern and velocity of the compressed air applied on the yarn body is equally important when compared with the study of splicer related parameters and yarn related parameters for better splicing performance. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is the right tool to analyse the airflow pattern and the behaviour of yarn body under the influence of compressed air. Therefore, Solidworks CFD software was used to study the compressed air flow pattern and simulation of the behaviour of yarn body when it comes to contact with high pressure air. The airflow pattern during untwisting and retwisting has been studied in detail and given in this study. In addition to that, simulation of the yarn body during untwisting is also studied. Also the airflow equilibrium during retwisting has been studied.
Contextual object categorisation with energy‐based model
Authors: Ri Changyong , Pak Duho , Choe Cholryong , Kim Suhyang , Sin Yonghak
Published: September 2017

In image mining, the object categorisation is an important issue. In the previous researches for an object categorisation, the contextual information, especially the spatial relations between objects, has not been made full use. In addition, the object categorisation methods, which generally use the probabilistic graphical models to implement the incorporation of contextual information with appearance of objects, are almost inevitable to evaluate the intractable partition function for normalisation. In order to utilise fully the spatial relational information the authors introduced fully connected fuzzy spatial relations including general spatial relations between object regions. Moreover, then the spatial relations were considered as well as co‐occurrence and appearance of objects by using energy‐based model that is based on the region–object association potential and the configuration potential of objects. Minimising the energy function of whole image arrangement, they obtained the optimal label set about the image regions and addressed the evaluation of intractable partition function in conditional random fields.