bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication of single-crystalline plasmonic nanostructures on transparent and flexible amorphous substrates
Authors: Mori Tomohiro , Mori Takeshi , Tanaka Yasuhiro , Suzaki Yoshifumi , Yamaguchi Kenzo
Published: February 2017

A new experimental technique is developed for producing a high-performance single-crystalline Ag nanostructure on transparent and flexible amorphous substrates for use in plasmonic sensors and circuit components. This technique is based on the epitaxial growth of Ag on a (001)-oriented single-crystalline NaCl substrate, which is subsequently dissolved in ultrapure water to allow the Ag film to be transferred onto a wide range of different substrates. Focused ion beam milling is then used to create an Ag nanoarray structure consisting of 200 cuboid nanoparticles with a side length of 160 nm and sharp, precise edges. This array exhibits a strong signal and a sharp peak in plasmonic properties and Raman intensity when compared with a polycrystalline Ag nanoarray.
Universality of quantum computation with cluster states and (X, Y)-plane measurements
Authors: Mantri Atul , Demarie Tommaso F. , Fitzsimons Joseph F.
Published: February 2017

Measurement-based quantum computing (MBQC) is a model of quantum computation where quantum information is coherently processed by means of projective measurements on highly entangled states. Following the introduction of MBQC, cluster states have been studied extensively both from the theoretical and experimental point of view. Indeed, the study of MBQC was catalysed by the realisation that cluster states are universal for MBQC with (X, Y)-plane and Z measurements. Here we examine the question of whether the requirement for Z measurements can be dropped while maintaining universality. We answer this question in the affirmative by showing that universality is possible in this scenario.
A 3′-5′ exonuclease activity embedded in the helicase core domain of Candida albicans Pif1 helicase
Authors: Wei Xiao-Bin , Zhang Bo , Bazeille Nicolas , Yu Ying , Liu Na-Nv , René Brigitte , Mauffret Olivier , Xi Xu-Guang
Published: February 2017

3′-5′ exonucleases are frequently found to be associated to polymerases or helicases domains in the same enzyme or could function as autonomous entities. Here we uncovered that Candida albicans Pif1 (CaPif1) displays a 3′-5′ exonuclease activity besides its main helicase activity. These two latter activities appear to reside on the same polypeptide and the new exonuclease activity could be mapped to the helicase core domain. We clearly show that CaPif1 displays exclusively exonuclease activity and unambiguously establish the directionality of the exonuclease activity as the 3′-to-5′ polarity. The enzyme appears to follow the two-metal-ion driven hydrolyzing activity exhibited by most of the nucleases, as shown by its dependence of magnesium and also by the identification of aspartic residues. Interestingly, an excellent correlation could be found between the presence of the conserved residues and the exonuclease activity when testing activities on Pif1 enzymes from eight fungal organisms. In contrast to others proteins endowed with the double helicase/exonuclease functionality, CaPif1 differs in the fact that the two activities are embedded in the same helicase domain and not located on separated domains. Our findings may suggest a biochemical basis for mechanistic studies of Pif1 family helicases.
CD8+ T cells promote proliferation of benign prostatic hyperplasia epithelial cells under low androgen level via modulation of CCL5/STAT5/CCND1 signaling pathway
Authors: Yang Yang , Hu Shuai , Liu Jie , Cui Yun , Fan Yu , Lv Tianjing , Liu Libo , Li Jun , He Qun , Han Wenke , Yu Wei , Sun Yin , Jin Jie
Published: February 2017

Previous studies by our group have shown that low intra-prostatic dihydrotestosterone (DHT) induced BPH epithelial cells (BECs) to recruit CD8+ T cells. However, the influence of the recruited CD8+ T cells on BECs under a low androgen level is still unknown. Here, we found CD8+ T cells have the capacity to promote proliferation of BECs in low androgen condition. Mechanism dissection revealed that interaction between CD8+ T cells and BECs through secretion of CCL5 might promote the phosphorylation of STAT5 and a higher expression of CCND1 in BECs. Suppressed CCL5/STAT5 signals via CCL5 neutralizing antibody or STAT5 inhibitor Pimozide led to reverse CD8+ T cell-enhanced BECs proliferation. IHC analysis from Finasteride treated patients showed PCNA expression in BECs was highly correlated to the level of CD8+ T cell infiltration and the expression of CCL5. Consequently, our data indicated infiltrating CD8+ T cells could promote the proliferation of BECs in low androgen condition via modulation of CCL5/STAT5/CCND1 signaling. The increased secretion of CCL5 from the CD8+ T cells/BECs interaction might help BECs survive in a low DHT environment. Targeting these signals may provide a new potential therapeutic approach to better treat BPH patients who failed the therapy of 5α-reductase inhibitors.
Effects of U0126 and MK2206 on cell growth and re-growth of endometriotic stromal cells grown on substrates of varying stiffness
Authors: Matsuzaki Sachiko , Pouly Jean-Luc , Canis Michel
Published: February 2017

Endometriosis is a common gynecological disorder responsible for infertility and pelvic pain. A complete cure for patients with endometriosis awaits new targets and strategies. Here we show that U0126 (a MEK inhibitor) and MK2206 (an AKT inhibitor) synergistically inhibit cell growth of deep endometriotic stromal cells (DES) grown on polyacrylamide gel substrates (PGS) of varying stiffness (2 or 30 kilopascal [kPa]) or plastic in vitro. No significant differences in cell proliferation were observed among DES, endometrial stromal cells of patients with endometriosis (EES) from the proliferative phase (P), EES-S (secretory phase) and EES-M (menstrual phase) compared to cells grown on a substrate of the same stiffness at both higher (U0126 [30 μM] and MK2206 [9 μM]) and lower (U0126 [15 μM] and MK2206 [4.5 μM]) combined doses. However, cell re-growth of DES after drug discontinuation was higher than that of EES-P and EES-S when cells were grown on rigid substrates at both combined doses. Combination U0126 and MK2206 treatment is more effective than each drug alone in cell growth inhibition of DES. However, further studies are required to investigate the mechanisms underlying high cell survival and proliferation after drug discontinuation for developing target therapies that prevent recurrence.
Type I neuregulin1α is a novel local mediator to suppress hepatic gluconeogenesis in mice
Authors: Arai Takatomo , Ono Yumika , Arimura Yujiro , Sayama Keimon , Suzuki Tomohiro , Shinjo Satoko , Kanai Mai , Abe Shin-ichi , Semba Kentaro , Goda Nobuhito
Published: February 2017

Neuregulin1 is an epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like domain-containing protein that has multiple isoforms and functions as a local mediator in the control of various cellular functions. Here we show that type I isoform of neuregulin1 with an α-type EGF-like domain (Nrg1α) is the major isoform in mouse liver and regulates hepatic glucose production. Forced expression of Nrg1α in mouse liver enhanced systemic glucose disposal and decreased hepatic glucose production with reduced fasting blood glucose levels. Nuclear forkhead box protein O1 (FoxO1) and its downstream targets, PEPCK and G6Pase, were suppressed in liver and isolated hepatocytes by Nrg1α overexpression. In contrast, silencing of Nrg1α enhanced glucose production with increased PEPCK and G6Pase expressions in cAMP/dexamethasone-stimulated hepatocytes. Mechanistically, the recombinant α-type EGF-like domain of NRG1α (rNRG1α) stimulated the ERBB3 signalling pathway in hepatocytes, resulting in decreased nuclear FoxO1 accumulation via activation of both the AKT and ERK pathways. In addition, acute treatment with rNRG1α also suppressed elevation of blood glucose levels after both glucose and pyruvate challenge. Although a liver-specific deletion of Nrg1 gene in mice showed little effect on systemic glucose metabolism, these results suggest that NRG1α have a novel regulatory function in hepatic gluconeogenesis by regulating the ERBB3-AKT/ERK-FoxO1 cascade.
Thymoquinone: An IRAK1 inhibitor with in vivo and in vitro anti-inflammatory activities
Authors: Hossen Muhammad Jahangir , Yang Woo Seok , Kim Daewon , Aravinthan Adithan , Kim Jong-Hoon , Cho Jae Youl
Published: February 2017

Thymoquinone (TQ) is a bioactive component of black seed (Nigella sativa) volatile oil and has been shown to have anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. In the present study, we explored the molecular mechanisms that underlie the anti-inflammatory effect of TQ and its target proteins using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated murine macrophage-like RAW264.7 and human monocyte-like U937 cells, together with LPS/D-galactosamine (GalN)-induced acute hepatitis and HCl/EtOH-induced gastritis mouse models. TQ strongly inhibited the production of nitric oxide (NO) and repressed NO synthase (iNOS), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, cyclooxygenase (COX)−2, interleukin (IL)−6, and IL-1β expression in LPS-activated RAW264.7 cells. Treatment of LPS/D-GalN–induced hepatitis and EtOH/HCl–induced gastritis mouse models with TQ significantly ameliorated disease symptoms. Using luciferase reporter gene assays, we also showed that the nuclear levels of transcription factors and phosphorylation patterns of signaling proteins, activator protein (AP)−1, and nuclear factor (NF)-κB pathways were all affected by TQ treatment. Finally, we used additional kinase and luciferase validation assays with interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 1 (IRAK1) to show that IRAK1 is directly suppressed by TQ treatment. Together, these findings strongly suggest that the anti-inflammatory actions of TQ are caused by suppression of IRAK-linked AP-1/NF-κB pathways.
Resveratrol treatment reveals a novel role for HMGB1 in regulation of the type 1 interferon response in dengue virus infection
Authors: Zainal Nurhafiza , Chang Chih-Peng , Cheng Yi-Lin , Wu Yan-Wei , Anderson Robert , Wan Shu-Wen , Chen Chia-Ling , Ho Tzong-Shiann , AbuBakar Sazaly , Lin Yee-Shin
Published: February 2017

Dengue is one of the most significant mosquito-borne virus diseases worldwide, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. This study sought to examine the antiviral activity of resveratrol (RESV), a phytoalexin secreted naturally by plants, against dengue virus (DENV) infection. Our data showed that RESV inhibits the translocation of high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), a DNA binding protein that normally resides in the nucleus, into the cytoplasm and extracellular milieu. HMGB1 migrates out of the nucleus during DENV infection. This migration is inhibited by RESV treatment and is mediated by induction of Sirt1 which leads to the retention of HMGB1 in the nucleus and consequently helps in the increased production of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs). Nuclear HMGB1 was found to bind to the promoter region of the ISG and positively regulated the expression of ISG. The enhanced transcription of ISGs by nuclear HMGB1 thus contributes to the antiviral activity of RESV against DENV. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report to demonstrate that RESV antagonizes DENV replication and that nuclear HMGB1 plays a role in regulating ISG production.
Pentraxin 3, ficolin-2 and lectin pathway associated serine protease MASP-3 as early predictors of myocardial infarction - the HUNT2 study
Authors: Vengen Inga Thorsen , Enger Tone Bull , Videm Vibeke , Garred Peter
Published: February 2017

The lectin complement pathway is suggested to play a role in atherogenesis. Pentraxin-3 (PTX3), ficolin-1, ficolin-2, ficolin-3, MBL/ficolin/collectin-associated serine protease-3 (MASP-3) and MBL/ficolin/collectin-associated protein-1 (MAP-1) are molecules related to activation of the lectin complement pathway. We hypothesized that serum levels of these molecules may be associated with the incidence of myocardial infarction (MI). In a Norwegian population-based cohort (HUNT2) where young to middle-aged relatively healthy Caucasians were followed up for a first-time MI from 1995–1997 through 2008, the 370 youngest MI patients were matched by age (range 29–62 years) and gender to 370 controls. After adjustments for traditional risk factors, the two highest tertiles of PTX3 and the highest tertiles of ficolin-2 and MASP-3 were associated with MI, with odds ratios (95% confidence interval) of 1.65 (1.10–2.47) and 2.79 (1.83–4.24) for PTX3, 1.55 (1.04–2.30) for ficolin-2, and 0.63 (0.043–0.94) for MASP-3. Ficolin-1, ficolin-3 and MAP-1 were not associated with MI. In a multimarker analysis of all associated biomarkers, only PTX3 and MASP-3 remained significant. PTX-3 and MASP-3 enhanced prediction of MI compared to the traditional Framingham risk score alone (AUC increased from 0.64 to 0.68, p = 0.006). These results support the role of complement-dependent inflammation in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular disease.
Eco-Friendly Superwetting Material for Highly Effective Separations of Oil/Water Mixtures and Oil-in-Water Emulsions
Authors: Wang Chih-Feng , Yang Sheng-Yi , Kuo Shiao-Wei
Published: February 2017

Because the treatment of oily wastewater, generated from many industrial processes, has become an increasing environmental concern, the search continues for simple, inexpensive, eco-friendly, and readily scalable processes for fabricating novel materials capable of effective oil/water separation. In this study we prepared an eco-friendly superhydrophilic and underwater superoleophobic polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)-modified cotton that mediated extremely efficient separations of mixtures of oil/water and oil/corrosive solutions. This PVP-modified cotton exhibited excellent antifouling properties and could be used to separate oil/water mixtures continuously for up to 20 h. Moreover, the compressed PVP-modified cotton could separate both surfactant-free and -stabilized oil-in-water emulsions with fluxes of up to 23,500 L m−2 h−1 bar−1—a level one to two orders of magnitude higher than that possible when using traditional ultrafiltration membranes having similar rejection properties. The high performance of our PVP-modified cotton and its green, low-energy, cost-effective preparation suggest its great potential for practical applications.
Fractalkine-CX3CR1 signaling is critical for progesterone-mediated neuroprotection in the retina
Authors: Roche Sarah L. , Wyse-Jackson Alice C. , Ruiz-Lopez Ana M. , Byrne Ashleigh M. , Cotter Thomas G.
Published: February 2017

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) encompasses a group of retinal diseases resulting in photoreceptor loss and blindness. We have previously shown in the rd10 mouse model of RP, that rd10 microglia drive degeneration of viable neurons. Norgestrel, a progesterone analogue, primes viable neurons against potential microglial damage. In the current study we wished to investigate this neuroprotective effect further. We were particularly interested in the role of fractalkine-CX3CR1 signaling, previously shown to mediate photoreceptor-microglia crosstalk and promote survival in the rd10 retina. Norgestrel upregulates fractalkine-CX3CR1 signaling in the rd10 retina, coinciding with photoreceptor survival. We show that Norgestrel-treated photoreceptor-like cells, 661Ws, and C57 explants modulate rd10 microglial activity in co-culture, resulting in increased photoreceptor survival. Assessment of Norgestrel’s neuroprotective effects when fractalkine was knocked-down in 661 W cells and release of fractalkine was reduced in rd10 explants confirms a crucial role for fractalkine-CX3CR1 signaling in Norgestrel-mediated neuroprotection. To further understand the role of fractalkine in neuroprotection, we assessed the release of 40 cytokines in fractalkine-treated rd10 microglia and explants. In both cases, treatment with fractalkine reduced a variety of pro-inflammatory cytokines. These findings further our understanding of Norgestrel’s neuroprotective properties, capable of modulating harmful microglial activity indirectly through photoreceptors, leading to increased neuroprotection.
Adenine-functionalized Spongy Graphene for Green and High-Performance Supercapacitors
Authors: El-Gendy Dalia M. , Ghany Nabil A. Abdel , El Sherbini E. E. Foad , Allam Nageh K.
Published: February 2017

A simple method is demonstrated to prepare spongy adenine-functionalized graphene (SFG) as interconnected, porous 3-dimensional (3D) network crinkly sheets. Such 3D network structure provides better contact at the electrode/electrolyte interface and facilitates the charge transfer kinetics. The fabricated SFG was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), FTIR, scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Raman spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), UV−vis absorption spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The synthesized materials have been evaluated as supercapacitor materials in 0.5 M H2SO4 using cyclic voltammetry (CV) at different potential scan rates, and galvanostatic charge/discharge tests at different current densities. The SFG electrodes showed a maximum specific capacitance of 333 F/g at scan rate of 1 mV/s and exhibited excellent cycling retention of 102% after 1000 cycles at 200 mV/s. The energy density was 64.42 Wh/kg with a power density of 599.8 W/kg at 1.0 A/g. Those figures of merit are much higher than those reported for graphene-based materials tested under similar conditions. The observed high performance can be related to the synergistic effects of the spongy structure and the adenine functionalization.
The applicability of fluorescence lifetime to determine the time since the deposition of biological stains
Authors: Shine S. Mc , Suhling K. , Beavil A. , Daniel B. , Frascione N.
Published: February 2017

This work demonstrates that fluorescence lifetime measurements can successfully predict the age of human bloodstains.
Development of a gradient micellar liquid chromatographic method eluting from micellar mode to high submicellar mode for the rapid separation of free amino acids
Authors: Ke Jing , Dong Yuming , Luo Tian , Xie Yunfei
Published: February 2017

A rapid surfactant-related gradient liquid chromatographic method progressing from a micellar liquid chromatographic mode to a submicellar liquid chromatographic mode has been developed for the quantitative analysis of free amino acids.
Interfacing native and non-native peptides: using Affimers to recognise α-helix mimicking foldamers
Authors: Arrata Irene , Barnard Anna , Tomlinson Darren C. , Wilson Andrew J.
Published: February 2017

Selection methods are used to identify Affimers that recognise α-helix mimicking N-alkylated aromatic oligoamides.
Surface chemistry of cadmium sulfide magic-sized clusters: a window into ligand-nanoparticle interactions
Authors: Nevers Douglas R. , Williamson Curtis B. , Hanrath Tobias , Robinson Richard D.
Published: February 2017

Optoelectronic properties of nanoparticles are intimately coupled to the complex physiochemical interplay between the inorganic core and the organic ligand shell.
One-colour control of activation, excitation and deactivation of a fluorescent diarylethene derivative in super-resolution microscopy
Authors: Arai Yuhei , Ito Syoji , Fujita Hajime , Yoneda Yusuke , Kaji Takahiro , Takei Satoshi , Kashihara Ryota , Morimoto Masakazu , Irie Masahiro , Miyasaka Hiroshi
Published: February 2017

We demonstrated one-colour control of activation, excitation and deactivation of a fluorescent diarylethene derivative by using a 532 nm CW laser at a weak output power.
Self-repairing metal–organic hybrid complexes for reinforcing immobilized chloroperoxidase reusability
Authors: Liu Yan , Zhang Yumei , Li Xuejian , Yuan Qipeng , Liang Hao
Published: February 2017

A self-repairing metal–chloroperoxidase (CPO) hybrid nanocatalyst with a sodium alginate (SA) coating displayed robust reusability under acidic conditions.
Effects of electrical conductivity on the formation and annihilation of positronium in porous materials
Authors: Li Chongyang , Zhao Bin , Zhou Bo , Qi Ning , Chen Zhiquan , Zhou Wei
Published: February 2017

In this paper we show the preliminary evidence that the formation of positronium depends on the electrical conductivity of porous materials.
Polarity governed selective amplification of through plane proton shuttling in proton exchange membrane fuel cells
Authors: Gautam Manu , Chattanahalli Devendrachari Mruthyunjayachari , Thimmappa Ravikumar , Raja Kottaichamy Alagar , Pottachola Shafi Shahid , Gaikwad Pramod , Makri Nimbegondi Kotresh Harish , Ottakam Thotiyl Musthafa
Published: February 2017

Polarity governed amplification of fuel cell performance in graphene oxide-based proton exchange membrane fuel cells.
Ab initio study of aspirin adsorption on single-walled carbon and carbon nitride nanotubes
Authors: Lee Yongju , Kwon Dae-Gyeon , Kim Gunn , Kwon Young-Kyun
Published: February 2017

Using density functional theory, we investigate the adsorption properties of acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) on the outer surfaces of a (10,0) carbon nanotube (CNT) and a (8,0) triazine-based graphitic carbon nitride nanotube (CNNT).
Cavitation clusters in lipid systems – surface effects, local heating and streamer formation
Authors: Birkin P. R. , Foley T. M. , Truscott T. T. , Merritt A. , Martini S.
Published: February 2017

Cavitation clusters in lipid materials (specifically sunflower oil): high-speed streamers and local heating effects.
Simulations and spectra of water in CO matrices
Authors: Escribano Rafael , Artacho Emilio , Kouchi Akira , Hama Tetusya , Kimura Yuki , Hidaka Hiroshi , Watanabe Naoki
Published: February 2017

Models to simulate water molecules embedded in CO matrices allow unbound water monomers to be identified from the observed infrared spectra.
Switching from adduct formation to electron transfer in a light–oxygen–voltage domain containing the reactive cysteine
Authors: Magerl Kathrin , Stambolic Ivan , Dick Bernhard
Published: February 2017

Electron transfer can be observed instead of the naturally occurring adduct formation in the LOV1 F41Y mutant from C. reinhardtii although the reactive cysteine is present.
Light-driven rotary molecular motors without point chirality: a minimal design
Authors: Wang Jun , Oruganti Baswanth , Durbeej Bo
Published: February 2017

Despite lacking a stereocenter, light-driven cyclohexenylidene-pyrrolinium molecular motors achieve unidirectional rotary motion through the asymmetry afforded by the puckered cyclohexenylidene.
Potentiometric measurement of entropy change for lithium batteries
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Feng , Zhao Yan , Patel Yatish , Zhang Teng , Liu Wei-Ming , Chen Mu , Offer Gregory J. , Yan Yue
Published: February 2017

Entropy change can be employed to track battery degradation compared with EIS and CV.
Non-covalent π–π stacking interactions turn off non-adiabatic effects in proton-coupled electron transfer reactions
Authors: Muñoz-Rugeles Leonardo , Galano Annia , Raúl Alvarez-Idaboy J.
Published: February 2017

Stacked transition states correspond to a PCET mechanism, albeit ground and first-excited states are separated by more than 20 kcal mol−1. The latter is usually attributed to HAT.
Theoretical design of a new family of two-dimensional topological insulators
Authors: Chen Kai-Xuan , Lyu Shu-Shen , Luo Zhi-Yong , Fu Yuan-Xiang , Heng Yi , Mo Dong-Chuan
Published: February 2017

A new family of two-dimensional topological insulators, hydrogenated monolayer of Pb2XY (X = Ga/In and Y = Sb/Bi), has been predicted in our study.
Mechanistic insights into the catalytic reaction of ferulic acid decarboxylase from Aspergillus niger: a QM/MM study
Authors: Tian Ge , Liu Yongjun
Published: February 2017

QM/MM calculations reveal the cofactor prFMNiminiumto be the catalytically relevant species compared with prFMNketamine. The protonation of the intermediate is the rate-limiting step, and the prolonged leaving of the generated CO2can facilitate this process.
Dispersion interactions in silicon allotropes
Authors: Karttunen Antti J. , Usvyat Denis , Schütz Martin , Maschio Lorenzo
Published: February 2017

Periodic local-MP2 and DFT-D3 calculations show that dispersion interactions in silicon allotropes can change the energy ordering significantly.
Aryne multifunctionalization with benzdiyne and benztriyne equivalents
Authors: Shi Jiarong , Li Yuanyuan , Li Yang
Published: February 2017

The applications of benzdiyne and benztriyne equivalents are summarized from the standpoint of synthetic organic chemistry as well as in the preparation of polycyclic aromatic functional frameworks.
Evaluating the role of acidic, basic, and polar amino acids and dipeptides on a molecular electrocatalyst for H2 oxidation
Authors: Boralugodage Nilusha Priyadarshani , Arachchige Rajith Jayasingha , Dutta Arnab , Buchko Garry W. , Shaw Wendy J.
Published: February 2017

Outer coordination sphere interactions reduce the overpotential for H2 oxidation catalysts (brown ellipse) compared to those that have –COOH groups but don't have stabilizing interactions (blue ellipse).
Direct analysis of gaseous mercury in ambient air by gas to particle conversion-gas exchange ICPMS
Authors: Ohata Masaki , Nishiguchi Kohei
Published: February 2017

For the first time, direct analysis of gaseous mercury (Hg) at a concentration level of a few ng m−3in ambient air using the gas to particle conversion-gas exchange technique, coupled with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICPMS) has been achieved.
Real-time elemental imaging of large dimension paintings with a novel mobile macro X-ray fluorescence (MA-XRF) scanning technique
Authors: Romano Francesco Paolo , Caliri Claudia , Nicotra Paolo , Di Martino Sandra , Pappalardo Lighea , Rizzo Francesca , Santos Hellen Cristine
Published: February 2017

A novel mobile XRF scanner combining MA-XRF and micro-XRF techniques and allowing near real-time elemental imaging of macroscopic paintings.
A simple extraction method for norfloxacin from pharmaceutical wastewater with a magnetic core–shell molecularly imprinted polymer with the aid of computer simulation
Authors: Niu Muchuan , Sun Cheng , Zhang Kai , Li Geyuan , Meriem Fizir , Pham-Huy Chuong , Hui Xuanhong , Shi Jianrong , He Hua
Published: February 2017

The best functional monomer was screened using computer simulation. Interaction mechanism between MMIP and norfloxacin was explained using pH optimization and zeta potential detection.
Robust porous polymers enabled by a fast trifluoroacetic acid etch with improved selectivity for polylactide
Authors: Sarkar Amrita , Stefik Morgan
Published: February 2017

Faster and more selective etching of polylactides from few-mm thick block copolymer films enabled by trifluoroacetic acid etchant.
Enhancement of the carrier mobility of conducting polymers by formation of their graphene composites
Authors: Chauhan A. K. , Gupta S. K. , Taguchi D. , Manaka T. , Jha P. , Veerender P. , Sridevi C. , Koiry S. P. , Gadkari S. C. , Iwamoto M.
Published: February 2017

Improved carrier mobility and solar cell performance in graphene composites of conducting polymers is demonstrated and analyzed.
A simple route to prepare a Cu2O–CuO–GN nanohybrid for high-performance electrode materials
Authors: Liu Yanyun , Ma Ling , Zhang Dong , Han Gaoyi , Chang Yunzhen
Published: February 2017

The prepared Cu2O–CuO–GN nanohybrid shows a higher specific capacitance than that of pure GN.
Effect of nanomaterials and electrode configuration on soil consolidation by electroosmosis: experimental and modeling studies
Authors: Zhang Heng , Zhou Guoxiang , Zhong Jing , Shen Zhang , Shi Xianming
Published: February 2017

Controlling the water content in soil is crucial for the load bearing capacity of soil.
Ultrathin Ag nanoparticles anchored on urchin-like WO3·0.33H2O for enhanced photocatalytic performance
Authors: Ren Haoqi , Gou Xufeng , Yang Qing
Published: February 2017

Ultrathin Ag nanoparticles anchored on urchin-like WO3·0.33H2O can be successfully achieved by a novel and facile self-catalytic reduction approach, and presented a better solar-driven photocatalytic performance than that of the individual WO3·0.33H2O.
Surface-enhanced Raman scattering of pyrazine on Au5Al5 bimetallic nanoclusters
Authors: Li Quanjiang , Ding Qianqian , Lin Weihua , Wang Jiangcai , Chen Maodu , Sun Mengtao
Published: February 2017

In this study, we theoretically investigated the Raman and absorption spectra of pyrazine adsorbed on Au5Al5 bimetallic nanoclusters by a time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT) method.
Solvent-dependent and highly selective anion sensing and molecular logic application of bisindolylmaleimide derivatives
Authors: Yao Huimei , Wang Jingwei , Chen Huan , Mei Xiaofei , Su Zhu , Wu Jingnan , Lin Zhenghuan , Ling Qidan
Published: February 2017

Bisindolylmaleimide derivatives (IMs) were found to be sensitive to different anions in various solvents, and utilized to construct five logic devices.
Quantifying the efficiency of CO2 capture by Lewis pairs
Authors: Chi Jay J. , Johnstone Timothy C. , Voicu Dan , Mehlmann Paul , Dielmann Fabian , Kumacheva Eugenia , Stephan Douglas W.
Published: February 2017

A microfluidic strategy is used to assess the relative efficiency and thermodynamic parameters of CO2 binding by three Lewis acid/base combinations.
Comment on “Relating side chain organization of PNIPAm with its conformation in aqueous methanol” by D. Mukherji, M. Wagner, M. D. Watson, S. Winzen, T. E. de Oliveira, C. M. Marques and K. Kremer, Soft Matter, 2016, 12, 7995
Authors: van der Vegt Nico F. A. , Rodríguez-Ropero Francisco
Published: February 2017

We try to clarify some issues that were raised by an article that appeared in Soft Matter, 2016, 12, 7995.
Self-supported electrodes of Na2Ti3O7 nanoribbon array/graphene foam and graphene foam for quasi-solid-state Na-ion capacitors
Authors: Dong Shengyang , Wu Langyuan , Wang Junjun , Nie Ping , Dou Hui , Zhang Xiaogang
Published: February 2017

A new class of energy storage device called a quasi-solid-state Na-ion capacitor is developed based on two self-supported electrodes, using an Na-ion conducting gel polymer as the electrolyte.
Conformal microcapsules encapsulating microcarrier-L02 cell complexes for treatment of acetaminophen-induced liver injury in rats
Authors: He Ying , Liu Cong , Xia Xiaoping , Liu Longxiao
Published: February 2017

Conformal microcapsules encapsulating microcarrier-L02 cell complexes for treatment of acetaminophen-induced liver injury in rats.
Solution synthesis of few-layer 2H MX2 (M = Mo, W; X = S, Se)
Authors: Barrera Diego , Wang Qingxiao , Lee Yun-Ju , Cheng Lanxia , Kim Moon J. , Kim Jiyoung , Hsu Julia W. P.
Published: February 2017

Microwave-assisted one-pot synthesis was demonstrated to produce a variety of few-layer transition metal dichalcogenides under mild conditions using common precursors.
Characterization of bacteria causing acute otitis media using Raman microspectroscopy
Authors: Ayala O. D. , Wakeman C. A. , Pence I. J. , O'Brien C. M. , Werkhaven J. A. , Skaar E. P. , Mahadevan-Jansen A.
Published: February 2017

Raman microspectroscopy was used to characterize and identify the three main pathogens that cause acute otitis media (AOM)in vitro. Cultured middle ear effusion from patients was studied and results suggest the potential of using this technique to aid in accurately diagnosing AOM and providing physicians with bacterial identification to guide treatment.
End-to-end azido-pinned interlocking lanthanide squares
Authors: Li Xiao-Lei , Wu Jianfeng , Zhao Lang , Shi Wei , Cheng Peng , Tang Jinkui
Published: February 2017

A self-assembled end-to-end azido-pinned interlocking lanthanide square displays a record energy barrier of 152(4) K among lanthanide azido-bridged SMMs in a zero dc field.
Asymmetric cinnamylation of N-tert-butanesulfinyl imines with cinnamyl acetates: total syntheses of (+)-lycoricidine and (+)-7-deoxypancratistatin
Authors: Cai Sen-Lin , Yuan Bin-Hua , Jiang Yi-Xiang , Lin Guo-Qiang , Sun Xing-Wen
Published: February 2017

Total syntheses of (+)-lycoricidine and (+)-7-deoxypancratistatin have been achieved through highly diastereoselective palladium-catalyzed cinnamylation of N-tert-butanesulfinyl imines with cinnamyl acetates.
Bis(sulfonamide) transmembrane carriers allow pH-gated inversion of ion selectivity
Authors: Roy Arundhati , Biswas Oindrila , Talukdar Pinaki
Published: February 2017

Bis(sulfonamide) based synthetic carriers are reported for inversion of ion selectivity upon deviation of pH within a narrow window. A liposomal membrane potential is also generated when potassium ions are passively transported by these carriers.
Regio- and stereoselective β-mannosylation using a boronic acid catalyst and its application in the synthesis of a tetrasaccharide repeating unit of lipopolysaccharide derived from E. coli O75
Authors: Nishi Nobuya , Nashida Junki , Kaji Eisuke , Takahashi Daisuke , Toshima Kazunobu
Published: February 2017

A novel regio- and stereoselective β-mannosylation using 1,2-anhydromannose and a diol sugar acceptor in the presence of a boronic acid catalyst and its application are reported.
Evidence of robust participation by an equatorial 4-O group in glycosylation on a 2-azido-2-deoxy-glucopyranosyl donor
Authors: Yao Dongming , Liu Yichu , Yan Shiqiang , Li Yingxia , Hu Chun , Ding Ning
Published: February 2017

An isolated bridging intermediate as evidence of equatorial 4-O group participation in glycosylation.
A radical coupled pathway to a stable and terminally bound titanium methylidene
Authors: Kurogi Takashi , Carroll Patrick J. , Mindiola Daniel J.
Published: February 2017

Radical coupling or oxidation of the titanium(iii)dimethyl precursor (PNP)Ti(CH3)2 produced the dimethyl compounds, (PNP)Ti(CH3)2(X) (X = TEMPO, OMes*, OTf), which then thermally extrude methane to cyclometallate (X = TEMPO) or form the methylidene (X = OMes* or OTf).
Long persistence phosphor assisted all-weather solar cells. Electricity generation beyond sunny days
Authors: Duan Jialong , Wang Jing , Tang Qunwei , He Benlin , Wang Wei
Published: February 2017

We present here a rational design and fabrication for all-weather dye-sensitized solar cells tailored with long-persistence phosphor materials, yielding a maximized photoelectric conversion efficiency of 8.86% under simulated sunlight and up to 26% in the dark.
Improved stability of a metallic state in benzothienobenzothiophene-based molecular conductors: an effective increase of dimensionality with hydrogen bonds
Authors: Higashino Toshiki , Ueda Akira , Yoshida Junya , Mori Hatsumi
Published: February 2017

Stabilization of a metallic state was successfully achieved by applying hydrogen-bonding interactions in a novel benzothienobenzothiophene-based molecular conductor.
Reactivity of heavy carbene analogues towards oxidants: a redox active ligand-enabled isolation of a paramagnetic stannylene
Authors: Janes Trevor , Zatsepin Pavel , Song Datong
Published: February 2017

We report the first isolated paramagnetic stannylene enabled by a redox active ligand.
Enzyme encapsulation in metal–organic frameworks for applications in catalysis
Authors: Majewski Marek B. , Howarth Ashlee J. , Li Peng , Wasielewski Michael R. , Hupp Joseph T. , Farha Omar K.
Published: February 2017

Various methods for encapsulating enzymes in metal–organic frameworks are discussed and the catalytic activity of biocomposites prepared using these methods is highlighted.
An in situ investigation of the water-induced phase transformation of UTSA-74 to MOF-74(Zn)
Authors: Bueken Bart , Reinsch Helge , Heidenreich Niclas , Vandekerkhove Annelies , Vermoortele Frederik , Kirschhock Christine E. A. , Stock Norbert , De Vos Dirk , Ameloot Rob
Published: February 2017

In water, UTSA-74 transforms through a dissolution–recrystallization process to its polymorph MOF-74(Zn).
Periodicity of band gaps of chiral α-graphyne nanotubes
Authors: Kang Baotao , Cho Daeheum , Lee Jin Yong
Published: February 2017

Electronic structures of zigzag (n,0), armchair (n,n), and chiral (n,m) α-graphyne nanotubes (αGNTs) with n = 2–7 were investigated using density functional tight binding calculations. Oscillatory behavior of the band gaps with a period of every (n − m) = 3 was found for each tube.
Organic photodiodes from homochirall-proline derived squaraine compounds with strong circular dichroism
Authors: Schulz Matthias , Mack Majvor , Kolloge Oliver , Lützen Arne , Schiek Manuela
Published: February 2017

We demonstrate the feasibility of inserting highly circular dichroic active layers into an organic photodiode as a potential detector for circular polarized light.
A comparative study of the structure and bonding in heavier pnictinidene complexes [(ArE)M(CO)n] (E = As, Sb and Bi; M = Cr, Mo, W and Fe)
Authors: Vránová Iva , Kremláček Vít , Erben Milan , Turek Jan , Jambor Roman , Růžička Aleš , Alonso Mercedes , Dostál Libor
Published: February 2017

A comprehensive study on the coordination behaviour of rare examples of heavier monomeric pnictinidenes is presented.
Rescaling metal molybdate nanostructures with biopolymer for energy storage having high capacitance with robust cycle stability
Authors: Minakshi Manickam , Barmi Maryam J. , Jones Robert T.
Published: February 2017

A nanostructured ternary metal molybdate using glutamic acid as biopolymer for hybrid device is reported with improved pseudocapacitive behaviour.
A theoretical study on oxidative cleavage of olefins to carbonyls catalysed by Fe(iii)-PyBisulidine
Authors: Jiang Yafei , Zhang Xiaotong , Mao Qiuyun , Tan Hongwei , Li Xichen , Chen Guangju , Jia Zongchao
Published: February 2017

The oxidative cleavage of olefins to carbonyls catalyzed by the Fe(iii)-PyBisulidine catalyst was investigated by DFT calculations.
Selective production of mono-aromatics from lignocellulose over Pd/C catalyst: the influence of acid co-catalysts
Authors: Huang Xiaoming , Ouyang Xianhong , Hendriks Bart M. S. , Gonzalez O. M. Morales , Zhu Jiadong , Korányi Tamás I. , Boot Michael D. , Hensen Emiel J. M.
Published: February 2017

The ‘lignin-first’ approach has recently gained attention as an alternative whole biomass pretreatment technology with improved yield and selectivity of aromatics compared with traditional upgrading processes using technical lignins. Metal triflates are effective co-catalysts that considerably speed up the removal of lignin fragments from the whole biomass. As their cost is too high in a scaled-up process, we explored here the use of HCl, H2SO4, H3PO4 and CH3COOH as alternative acid co-catalysts for the tandem reductive fractionation process. HCl and H2SO4 were found to show superior catalytic performance over H3PO4 and CH3COOH in model compound studies that simulate lignin–carbohydrate linkages (phenyl glycoside, glyceryl trioleate) and lignin intralinkages (guaiacylglycerol-β-guaiacyl ether). HCl is a promising alternative to the metal triflates as a co-catalyst in the reductive fraction of woody biomass. Al(OTf)3 and HCl, respectively, afforded 46 wt% and 44 wt% lignin monomers from oak wood sawdust in tandem catalytic systems with Pd/C at 180 °C in 2 h. The retention of cellulose in the solid residue was similar.
MapIT!: a simple and user-friendly MATLAB script to elaborate elemental distribution images from LA-ICP-MS data
Authors: Sforna M. C. , Lugli F.
Published: February 2017

We present MapIT!, a MATLAB routine allowing fast reduction and imaging of LA-ICP-MS data in a user-friendly environment.
Uptake of silver nanoparticles by DHA-treated cancer cells examined by surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy in a microfluidic chip
Authors: Zhai Zhimin , Zhang Fengqiu , Chen Xiangyu , Zhong Jie , Liu Gang , Tian Yangchao , Huang Qing
Published: February 2017

This paper reports on the synthesis and application of biocompatible and sensitive SERS nanoparticles for the study of uptake of nanoparticles into living cells in a microfluidic chip through surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS).
Rapid chemoenzymatic route to glutamate transporter inhibitorl-TFB-TBOA and related amino acids
Authors: Fu Haigen , Younes Sabry H. H. , Saifuddin Mohammad , Tepper Pieter G. , Zhang Jielin , Keller Erik , Heeres André , Szymanski Wiktor , Poelarends Gerrit J.
Published: February 2017

Rapid route tol-TFB-TBOA: Using only nine chemical transformations, we have managed to construct the complex amino acidl-TFB-TBOA starting from commercially available dimethyl acetylenedicarboxylate.
Bio-inspired strategy for controlled dopamine polymerization in basic solutions
Authors: Du Xin , Li Linxian , Behboodi-Sadabad Farid , Welle Alexander , Li Junsheng , Heissler Stefan , Zhang Huijie , Plumeré Nicolas , Levkin Pavel A.
Published: February 2017

Here we describe a facile and convenient method to achieve both spatial and temporal control of dopamine polymerization under basic conditions by the cooperative action of sodium ascorbate and UV irradiation.
Simultaneous synthesis and chemical functionalization of emulsion-templated porous polymers using nitroxide-terminated macromolecular surfactants
Authors: Mathieu K. , De Winter J. , Jérôme C. , Debuigne A.
Published: February 2017

The design of functional 3D macroporous monoliths has become a necessity for a wide range of applications.
Controlled polymerization of isoprene promoted by a type of hemilabile XPN3 (X = O, S) ligand supported cobalt(ii) complexes: the role of a hemilabile donor on the level of control
Authors: Chen Huafeng , Pan Weijing , Huang Kuo-Wei , Zhang Xuequan , Gong Dirong
Published: February 2017

Cobalt dichloride complexes (Co1–Co9) carrying a novel type of hemilabile donor PN3 (L1–L3) or XPN3 (L4–L6, X = O; L7–L9, X = S) are reported as precursors for controlled polymerization of isoprene.
Free-standing Ti3C2Txelectrode with ultrahigh volumetric capacitance
Authors: Fu Qishan , Wen Jing , Zhang Na , Wu Lili , Zhang Mingyi , Lin Shuangyan , Gao Hong , Zhang Xitian
Published: February 2017

The flexible and free-standing paper electrode with ultrahigh volumetric performance and outstanding stability was prepared based on the layered 2D Ti3C2Tx, which demonstrates the potential applications in small-sized electronic devices.
Fine-diameter microwave-absorbing SiC-based fiber
Authors: Wang Bowei , Li Huimin , Xu Limin , Chen Jiangxi , He Guomei
Published: February 2017

An amorphous fine-diameter SiC fiber with excellent microwave-absorbing capacity at the X band was prepared from a new boron containing polytitanocarbosilane.
Preparation of magnetic mesoporous carbon from polystyrene-grafted magnetic nanoparticles for rapid extraction of chlorophenols from water samples
Authors: Xue Shan , Wang Chaozhan , Wei Yinmao
Published: February 2017

A magnetic mesoporous carbon material (Fe3O4@C) was fabricated by carbonizing polystyrene grafted polydopamine-coated magnetic nanoparticles.
One-pot oligoamides syntheses froml-lysine andl-tartaric acid
Authors: Oliva R. , Ortenzi M. A. , Salvini A. , Papacchini A. , Giomi D.
Published: February 2017

Oligoamides based on natural raw materials,l-lysine andl-tartaric acid, were synthesized using one-pot processes. Al-lysine diketopiperazine structure was obtained with good selectivity without protection/deprotection steps.
Reply to the ‘Comment on “Relating side chain organization of PNIPAm with its conformation in aqueous methanol”’ by N. van der Vegt and F. Rodriguez-Ropero, Soft Matter, 2017, 13, DOI: 10.1039/C6SM02139E
Authors: Mukherji Debashish , Wagner Manfred , Watson Mark D. , Winzen Svenja , de Oliveira Tiago E. , Marques Carlos M. , Kremer Kurt
Published: February 2017

We provide a reply to comments by N. van der Vegt and F. Rodriguez-Ropero on our recent article in Soft Matter.
Zinc-diffused silver indium selenide quantum dot sensitized solar cells with enhanced photoconversion efficiency
Authors: Halder Ganga , Bhattacharyya Sayan
Published: February 2017

The photoconversion efficiency of AgInSe2 quantum dot sensitized solar cells was enhanced to 3.57% by Zn2+ alloying and inorganic passivation.
An approach to flexible Na-ion batteries with exceptional rate capability and long lifespan using Na2FeP2O7 nanoparticles on porous carbon cloth
Authors: Song Hee Jo , Kim Da-Sol , Kim Jae-Chan , Hong Seong-Hyeon , Kim Dong-Wan
Published: February 2017

We prepared Na2FeP2O7 NPs embedded in carbon and fabricated a free-standing electrode using Na2FeP2O7 nanoparticles and porous carbon cloth for flexible high-rate Na-ion batteries with superior cycling stability.
Superhydrophobic sand: a hope for desert water storage and transportation projects
Authors: Chen Liwei , Si Yifan , Guo Zhiguang , Liu Weimin
Published: February 2017

Structured and perfluorinated sand grains demonstrate stable superhydrophobic properties, which is a great hope for water storage and transportation project in desert.
Electron trapping induced electrostatic adsorption of cations: a general factor leading to photoactivity decay of nanostructured TiO2
Authors: He Tao , Wang Libo , Fabregat-Santiago Francisco , Liu Guoqun , Li Ying , Wang Chong , Guan Rengui
Published: February 2017

In this work, a mechanism of electron trapping induced electrostatic adsorption of electrolyte cations (ETIEA) is proposed to explain the general photoactivity decay of nanostructured TiO2 electrodes, usually occurring during the initial several minutes of photoelectrochemical (PEC) processes.
Activatable probes for diagnosis and biomarker detection by MRI
Authors: Carril Monica
Published: February 2017

This review describes the strategies employed and the mechanisms behind both 1H and 19F-MRI based activatable probes for diagnosis and biomarker detection.
Glyco-decorated tobacco mosaic virus as a vector for cisplatin delivery
Authors: Liu Xiangxiang , Liu Bowei , Gao Sijia , Wang Zhaocheng , Tian Ye , Wu Man , Jiang Shidong , Niu Zhongwei
Published: February 2017

Through the specific recognition of glycoproteins in cell membranes, the glyco-decorated TMV carriers with CDDP show specifically enhanced anti-cancer efficiency.
Thermo-responsive polymers and their application as smart biomaterials
Authors: Kim Young-Jin , Matsunaga Yukiko T.
Published: February 2017

This review summarises smart thermo-responsive polymeric materials with reversible and ‘on–off’ remotely switchable properties for a wide range of biomedical and biomaterials applications.
Targetable N-annulated perylene-based colorimetric and ratiometric near-infrared fluorescent probes for the selective detection of hydrogen sulfide in mitochondria, lysosomes, and serum
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Tan Haoqi , Yan Yongchao , Hang Yandi , Yu Fengtao , Qu Xue , Hua Jianli
Published: February 2017

The N-annulated perylene-based ratiometric NIR fluorescent probes were firstly developed to detect H2S in mitochondria, lysosomes, and serum.
Sulfoquinovose in the biosphere: occurrence, metabolism and functions
Authors: Goddard-Borger Ethan D. , Williams Spencer J.
Published: February 2017

The sulfonated carbohydrate sulfoquinovose (SQ) is produced in quantities estimated at some 10 billion tonnes annually and is thus a major participant in the global sulfur biocycle. SQ is produced by most photosynthetic organisms and incorporated into the sulfolipid sulfoquinovosyl diacylglycerol (SQDG), as well as within some archaea for incorporation into glycoprotein N-glycans. SQDG is found mainly within the thylakoid membranes of the chloroplast, where it appears to be important for membrane structure and function and for optimal activity of photosynthetic protein complexes. SQDG metabolism within the sulfur cycle involves complex biosynthetic and catabolic processes. SQDG biosynthesis is largely conserved within plants, algae and bacteria. On the other hand, two major sulfoglycolytic pathways have been discovered for SQDG degradation, the sulfo-Embden–Meyerhof–Parnas (sulfo-EMP) and sulfo-Entner–Doudoroff (sulfo-ED) pathways, which mirror the major steps in the glycolytic EMP and ED pathways. Sulfoglycolysis produces C3-sulfonates, which undergo biomineralization to inorganic sulfur species, completing the sulfur cycle. This review discusses the discovery and structural elucidation of SQDG and archaeal N-glycans, the occurrence, distribution, and speciation of SQDG, and metabolic pathways leading to the biosynthesis of SQDG and its catabolism through sulfoglycolytic and biomineralization pathways to inorganic sulfur.