bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A human genome-wide loss-of-function screen identifies effective chikungunya antiviral drugs
Authors: Karlas Alexander , Berre Stefano , Couderc Thérèse , Varjak Margus , Braun Peter , Meyer Michael , Gangneux Nicolas , Karo-Astover Liis , Weege Friderike , Raftery Martin , Schönrich Günther , Klemm Uwe , Wurzlbauer Anne , Bracher Franz , Merits Andres , Meyer Thomas F. , Lecuit Marc
Published: May 2016

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is a globally spreading alphavirus against which there is no commercially available vaccine or therapy. Here we use a genome-wide siRNA screen to identify 156 proviral and 41 antiviral host factors affecting CHIKV replication. We analyse the cellular pathways in which human proviral genes are involved and identify druggable targets. Twenty-one small-molecule inhibitors, some of which are FDA approved, targeting six proviral factors or pathways, have high antiviral activity in vitro, with low toxicity. Three identified inhibitors have prophylactic antiviral effects in mouse models of chikungunya infection. Two of them, the calmodulin inhibitor pimozide and the fatty acid synthesis inhibitor TOFA, have a therapeutic effect in vivo when combined. These results demonstrate the value of loss-of-function screening and pathway analysis for the rational identification of small molecules with therapeutic potential and pave the way for the development of new, host-directed, antiviral agents.
A high-resolution strain-gauge nanolaser
Authors: Choi Jae-Hyuck , No You-Shin , So Jae-Pil , Lee Jung Min , Kim Kyoung-Ho , Hwang Min-Soo , Kwon Soon-Hong , Park Hong-Gyu
Published: May 2016

Interest in mechanical compliance has been motivated by the development of flexible electronics and mechanosensors. In particular, studies and characterization of structural deformation at the fundamental scale can offer opportunities to improve the device sensitivity and spatiotemporal response; however, the development of precise measurement tools with the appropriate resolution remains a challenge. Here we report a flexible and stretchable photonic crystal nanolaser whose spectral and modal behaviours are sensitive to nanoscale structural alterations. Reversible spectral tuning of ∼26 nm in lasing wavelength, with a sub-nanometre resolution of less than ∼0.6 nm, is demonstrated in response to applied strain ranging from −10 to 12%. Instantaneous visualization of the sign of the strain is also characterized by exploring the structural and corresponding modal symmetry. Furthermore, our high-resolution strain-gauge nanolaser functions as a stable and deterministic strain-based pH sensor in an opto-fluidic system, which may be useful for further analysis of chemical/biological systems.
Electricity and disinfectant production from wastewater: Microbial Fuel Cell as a self-powered electrolyser
Authors: Gajda Iwona , Greenman John , Melhuish Chris , Ieropoulos Ioannis A.
Published: May 2016

This study presents a simple and sustainable Microbial Fuel Cell as a standalone, self-powered reactor for in situ wastewater electrolysis, recovering nitrogen from wastewater. A process is proposed whereby the MFC electrical performance drives the electrolysis of wastewater towards the self-generation of catholyte within the same reactor. The MFCs were designed to harvest the generated catholyte in the internal chamber, which showed that liquid production rates are largely proportional to electrical current generation. The catholyte demonstrated bactericidal properties, compared to the control (open-circuit) diffusate and reduced observable biofilm formation on the cathode electrode. Killing effects were confirmed using bacterial kill curves constructed by exposing a bioluminescent Escherichia coli target, as a surrogate coliform, to catholyte where a rapid kill rate was observed. Therefore, MFCs could serve as a water recovery system, a disinfectant/cleaner generator that limits undesired biofilm formation and as a washing agent in waterless urinals to improve sanitation. This simple and ready to implement MFC system can convert organic waste directly into electricity and self-driven nitrogen along with water recovery. This could lead to the development of energy positive bioprocesses for sustainable wastewater treatment.
Discovery of novel peptides targeting pro-atherogenic endothelium in disturbed flow regions -Targeted siRNA delivery to pro-atherogenic endothelium in vivo
Authors: Chung Jihwa , Shim Hyunbo , Kim Kwanchang , Lee Duhwan , Kim Won Jong , Kang Dong Hoon , Kang Sang Won , Jo Hanjoong , Kwon Kihwan
Published: May 2016

Atherosclerosis occurs preferentially in arterial regions exposed to disturbed blood flow. Targeting these pro-atherogenic regions is a potential anti-atherogenic therapeutic approach, but it has been extremely challenging. Here, using in vivo phage display approach and the partial carotid ligation model of flow-induced atherosclerosis in mouse, we identified novel peptides that specifically bind to endothelial cells (ECs) exposed to disturbed flow condition in pro-atherogenic regions. Two peptides, CLIRRTSIC and CPRRSHPIC, selectively bound to arterial ECs exposed to disturbed flow not only in the partially ligated carotids but also in the lesser curvature and branching point of the aortic arch in mice as well as human pulmonary artery branches. Peptides were conjugated to branched polyethylenimine-polyethylene glycol polymer to generate polyplexes carrying siRNA targeting intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (siICAM-1). In mouse model, CLIRRTSIC polyplexes carrying si-ICAM-1 specifically bound to endothelium in disturbed flow regions, reducing endothelial ICAM-1 expression. Mass spectrometry analysis revealed that non-muscle myosin heavy chain II A (NMHC IIA) is a protein targeted by CLIRRTSIC peptide. Further studies showed that shear stress regulates NMHC IIA expression and localization in ECs. The CLIRRTSIC is a novel peptide that could be used for targeted delivery of therapeutics such as siRNAs to pro-atherogenic endothelium.
Dissecting Driver Behaviors Under Cognitive, Emotional, Sensorimotor, and Mixed Stressors
Authors: Pavlidis I. , Dcosta M. , Taamneh S. , Manser M. , Ferris T. , Wunderlich R. , Akleman E. , Tsiamyrtzis P.
Published: May 2016

In a simulation experiment we studied the effects of cognitive, emotional, sensorimotor, and mixed stressors on driver arousal and performance with respect to (wrt) baseline. In a sample of n = 59 drivers, balanced in terms of age and gender, we found that all stressors incurred significant increases in mean sympathetic arousal accompanied by significant increases in mean absolute steering. The latter, translated to significantly larger range of lane departures only in the case of sensorimotor and mixed stressors, indicating more dangerous driving wrt baseline. In the case of cognitive or emotional stressors, often a smaller range of lane departures was observed, indicating safer driving wrt baseline. This paradox suggests an effective coping mechanism at work, which compensates erroneous reactions precipitated by cognitive or emotional conflict. This mechanisms’ grip slips, however, when the feedback loop is intermittently severed by sensorimotor distractions. Interestingly, mixed stressors did not affect crash rates in startling events, suggesting that the coping mechanism’s compensation time scale is above the range of neurophysiological latency.
A Modular Vaccine Development Platform Based on Sortase-Mediated Site-Specific Tagging of Antigens onto Virus-Like Particles
Authors: Tang Shubing , Xuan Baoqin , Ye Xiaohua , Huang Zhong , Qian Zhikang
Published: May 2016

Virus-like particles (VLPs) can be used as powerful nanoscale weapons to fight against virus infection. In addition to direct use as vaccines, VLPs have been extensively exploited as platforms on which to display foreign antigens for prophylactic vaccination and immunotherapeutic treatment. Unfortunately, fabrication of new chimeric VLP vaccines in a versatile, site-specific and highly efficient manner is beyond the capability of traditional VLP vaccine design approaches, genetic insertion and chemical conjugation. In this study, we described a greatly improved VLP display strategy by chemoenzymatic site-specific tailoring antigens on VLPs surface with high efficiency. Through the transpeptidation mediated by sortase A, one protein and two epitopes containing N-terminal oligoglycine were conjugated to the LPET motif on the surface of hepatitis B virus core protein (HBc) VLPs with high density. All of the new chimeric VLPs induced strong specific IgG responses. Furthermore, the chimeric VLPs with sortase A tagged enterovirus 71 (EV71) SP70 epitope could elicit effective antibodies against EV71 lethal challenging as well as the genetic insertion chimeric VLPs. The sortase A mediated chemoenzymatic site-specific tailoring of the HBc VLP approach shows great potential in new VLP vaccine design for its simplicity, site specificity, high efficiency, and versatility.
Soil pH, total phosphorus, climate and distance are the major factors influencing microbial activity at a regional spatial scale
Authors: Cao Haichuan , Chen Ruirui , Wang Libing , Jiang Lanlan , Yang Fen , Zheng Shixue , Wang Gejiao , Lin Xiangui
Published: May 2016

Considering the extensive functional redundancy in microbial communities and great difficulty in elucidating it based on taxonomic structure, studies on the biogeography of soil microbial activity at large spatial scale are as important as microbial community structure. Eighty-four soil samples were collected across a region from south to north China (about 1,000 km) to address the questions if microbial activity displays biogeographic patterns and what are driving forces. These samples represented different soil types, land use and climate. Redundancy analysis and nonmetric multidimensional scaling clearly revealed that soil microbial activities showed distinct differentiation at different sites over a regional spatial scale, which were strongly affected by soil pH, total P, rainfall, temperature, soil type and location. In addition, microbial community structure was greatly influenced by rainfall, location, temperature, soil pH and soil type and was correlated with microbial activity to some extent. Our results suggest that microbial activities display a clear geographic pattern that is greatly altered by geographic distance and reflected by climate, soil pH and total P over large spatial scales. There are common (distance, climate, pH and soil type) but differentiated aspects (TP, SOC and N) in the biogeography of soil microbial community structure and activity.
Highly Efficient White Organic Light-Emitting Diodes with Ultrathin Emissive Layers and a Spacer-Free Structure
Authors: Wu Shengfan , Li Sihua , Sun Qi , Huang Chenchao , Fung Man-Keung
Published: May 2016

Ultrathin emissive layers (UEMLs) of phosphorescent materials with a layer thickness of less than 0.3 nm were introduced for high-efficiency organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs). All the UEMLs for white OLEDs can be prepared without the use of interlayers or spacers. Compared with devices fabricated with interlayers inserted in-between the UEMLs, our spacer-free structure not only significantly improves device efficiency, but also simplifies the fabrication process, thus it has a great potential in lowering the cost of OLED panels. In addition, its spacer-free structure decreases the number of interfaces which often introduce unnecessary energy barriers in these devices. In the present work, UEMLs of red, green and blue-emitting phosphorescent materials and yellow and blue phosphorescent emitters are utilized for the demonstration of spacer-free white OLEDs. Upon optimization of the device structure, we demonstrated spacer-free and simple-structured white-emitting OLEDs with a good device performance. The current and power efficiencies of our white-emitting devices are as high as 56.0 cd/A and 55.5 lm/W, respectively. These efficiencies are the highest ever reported for OLEDs fabricated with the UEML approach.
Cellular graphene aerogel combines ultralow weight and high mechanical strength: A highly efficient reactor for catalytic hydrogenation
Authors: Zhang Bingxing , Zhang Jianling , Sang Xinxin , Liu Chengcheng , Luo Tian , Peng Li , Han Buxing , Tan Xiuniang , Ma Xue , Wang Dong , Zhao Ning
Published: May 2016

The construction of three-dimensional graphene aerogels (GAs) is of great importance owing to their outstanding properties for various applications. Up to now, the combination of ultralow weight and super mechanical strength for GA remains a great challenge. Here we demonstrate the fabrication of cellular GAs by a facile, easily controlled and versatile route, i.e. the chemical reduction of graphene oxide assemblies at oil-water interface under a mild condition (70 °C). The GA is ultralight (with density <3 mg cm−3) yet mechanically resilient because the walls of the cell closely pack in a highly ordered manner to maximize mechanical strength. The GA has been utilized as an appealing reactor for catalytic hydrogenation, which exhibited great advantages such as large oil absorption capability, exceptional catalytic activity, ease of product separation and high stability.
Impact of maternal cigarette smoke exposure on brain inflammation and oxidative stress in male mice offspring
Authors: Chan Yik Lung , Saad Sonia , Pollock Carol , Oliver Brian , Al-Odat Ibrahim , Zaky Amgad A. , Jones Nicole , Chen Hui
Published: May 2016

Maternal cigarette smoke exposure (SE) during gestation can cause lifelong adverse effects in the offspring’s brain. Several factors may contribute including inflammation, oxidative stress and hypoxia, whose changes in the developing brain are unknown. Female Balb/c mice were exposed to cigarette smoke prior to mating, during gestation and lactation. Male offspring were studied at postnatal day (P) 1, P20 and 13 weeks (W13). SE dams had reduced inflammatory mediators (IL-1β, IL-6 and toll like receptor (TLR)4 mRNA), antioxidant (manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD)) and increased mitochondrial activities (OXPHOS-I, III and V) and protein damage marker nitrotyrosine. Brain hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)1α and its upstream signalling molecule early growth response factor (EGR)1 were not changed in the SE dams. In the SE offspring, brain IL-1R, IL-6 and TLR4 mRNA were increased at W13. The translocase of outer mitochondrial membrane and MnSOD were reduced at W13 with higher nitrotyrosine staining. HIF-1α was also increased at W13, although EGR1 was only reduced at P1. In conclusion, maternal SE increased markers of hypoxia and oxidative stress with mitochondrial dysfunction and cell damage in both dams and offspring and upregulated inflammatory markers in offspring, which may render SE dams and their offspring vulnerable to additional brain insults.
Soy isoflavone consumption and colorectal cancer risk: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Yu Yi , Jing Xiaoli , Li Hui , Zhao Xiang , Wang Dongping
Published: May 2016

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most predominant solid carcinomas in Western countries. However, there is conflicting information on the effects of soy isoflavone on CRC risk. Therefore, we performed a meta-analysis to assess the association between soy isoflavone consumption and CRC risk in humans using PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases. A total of 17 epidemiologic studies, which consisted of thirteen case-control and four prospective cohort studies, met the inclusion criteria. Our research findings revealed that soy isoflavone consumption reduced CRC risk (relative risk, RR: 0.78, 95% CI: 0.72–0.85; I2 = 34.1%, P = 0.024). Based on subgroup analyses, a significant protective effect was observed with soy foods/products (RR: 0.79; 95% CI: 0.69–0.89), in Asian populations (RR: 0.79; 95% CI: 0.72–0.87), and in case-control studies (RR: 0.76; 95% CI: 0.68–0.84). Therefore, soy isoflavone consumption was significantly associated with a reduced risk of CRC risk, particularly with soy foods/products, in Asian populations, and in case-control studies. However, due to the limited number of studies, other factors may affect this association.
Enhancement of tendon-to-bone healing after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells genetically modified with bFGF/BMP2
Authors: Chen Biao , Li Bin , Qi Yong-Jian , Ni Qu-Bo , Pan Zheng-Qi , Wang Hui , Chen Liao-Bin
Published: May 2016

Many strategies, including various growth factors and gene transfer, have been used to augment healing after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. The biological environment regulated by the growth factors during the stage of tendon-bone healing was considered important in controlling the integrating process. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) genetically modified with bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) on healing after ACL reconstruction. BMSCs were infected with an adenoviral vector encoding BMP2 (AdBMP2) or bFGF (AdbFGF). Then, the infected BMSCs were surgically implanted into the tendon-bone interface. At 12 weeks postoperatively, the formation of abundant cartilage-like cells, smaller tibial bone tunnel and significantly higher ultimate load and stiffness levels, through histological analysis, micro-computed tomography and biomechanical testing, were observed. In addition, the AdBMP2-plus-AdbFGF group had the smallest bone tunnel and the best mechanical properties among all the groups. The addition of BMP2 or bFGF by gene transfer resulted in better cellularity, new bone formation and higher mechanical property, which contributed to the healing process after ACL reconstruction. Furthermore, the co-application of these two genes was more powerful and efficient than either single gene therapy.
A new method to manipulate broiler chicken growth and metabolism: Response to mixed LED light system
Authors: Yang Yefeng , Yu Yonghua , Pan Jinming , Ying Yibin , Zhou Hong
Published: May 2016

Present study introduced a new method to manipulate broiler chicken growth and metabolism by mixing the growth-advantage LED. We found that the green/blue LED mixed light system (G-B and G × B) have the similar stimulatory effect on chick body weight with single green light and single blue light (G and B), compared with normal artificial light (P = 0.028). Moreover, the percentage of carcass was significantly greater in the mixed light (G × B) when compared with the single light (P = 0.003). Synchronized with body weight, the mixed light (G-B and G × B) had a significant improved influence on the feed conversion of birds compared with normal light (P = 0.002). A significant improvement in feed conversion were found in mixed light (G × B) compared with single LED light (P = 0.037). G group resulted in a greater high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level than B group (P = 0.002), whereas B group resulted in a greater low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level than G group (P = 0.017). The mixed light significantly increased the birds’ glucose level in comparison with the single light (P = 0.003). This study might establish an effective strategy for maximizing growth of chickens by mixed LED technology.
Bacterial and archaeal communities in the deep-sea sediments of inactive hydrothermal vents in the Southwest India Ridge
Authors: Zhang Likui , Kang Manyu , Xu Jiajun , Xu Jian , Shuai Yinjie , Zhou Xiaojian , Yang Zhihui , Ma Kesen
Published: May 2016

Active deep-sea hydrothermal vents harbor abundant thermophilic and hyperthermophilic microorganisms. However, microbial communities in inactive hydrothermal vents have not been well documented. Here, we investigated bacterial and archaeal communities in the two deep-sea sediments (named as TVG4 and TVG11) collected from inactive hydrothermal vents in the Southwest India Ridge using the high-throughput sequencing technology of Illumina MiSeq2500 platform. Based on the V4 region of 16S rRNA gene, sequence analysis showed that bacterial communities in the two samples were dominated by Proteobacteria, followed by Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria and Firmicutes. Furthermore, archaeal communities in the two samples were dominated by Thaumarchaeota and Euryarchaeota. Comparative analysis showed that (i) TVG4 displayed the higher bacterial richness and lower archaeal richness than TVG11; (ii) the two samples had more divergence in archaeal communities than bacterial communities. Bacteria and archaea that are potentially associated with nitrogen, sulfur metal and methane cycling were detected in the two samples. Overall, we first provided a comparative picture of bacterial and archaeal communities and revealed their potentially ecological roles in the deep-sea environments of inactive hydrothermal vents in the Southwest Indian Ridge, augmenting microbial communities in inactive hydrothermal vents.
A molecular assembly that crawls on a solid substrate with a metabolic-like process
Authors: Nakada Masato , Fujikami Yukihiro , Kawaguchi Masaharu , Yamamoto Daigo , Shioi Akihisa
Published: May 2016

An abiotic amphiphilic aggregate crawls on a solid substrate, engulfing the surrounding smaller vesicles and discharging film-like waste.
Copper-catalyzed regio and diastereoselective three component C–N, C–C and C–O bond forming reaction: oxidative sp3C–H functionalization
Authors: Gupta Kankatala S. V. , Ramana Daggupati V. , Vinayak Botla , Sridhar Balasubramanian , Chandrasekharam Malapaka
Published: May 2016

Naphthoxazine derivatives were synthesized in good yields in the one-pot reaction of tetrahydroisoquinolines, aromatic benzaldehydes and naphthols employing CuI as a catalyst.
Morphological changes in carbon nanohorns under stress: a combined Raman spectroscopy and TEM study
Authors: Peña-Álvarez Miriam , Corro Elena del , Langa Fernando , Baonza Valentín G. , Taravillo Mercedes
Published: May 2016

In this work, we present the first study of highly compressed carbon nanohorns (CNHs).
Graphene oxide–peptide nanoassembly as a general approach for monitoring the activity of histone deacetylases
Authors: Liang Ping , Li Qing , Wu Zhan , Jiang Jian-Hui , Yu Ru-Qin
Published: May 2016

A novel fluorescent sensor using graphene oxide (GO)–peptide nanoassembly is developed for histone deacetylases (HDACs) based on deacetylation mediated cleavage of substrate peptides, which provides a simple, cost-effective platform for monitoring the activity of HDACs.
Photoelectrochemical study of p-GaP(100)|ZnO|AuNP devices: strategies for enhanced electron transfer and aqueous catalysis
Authors: Williams Owen M. , Shi Justin W. , Rose Michael J.
Published: May 2016

We report a photocathode device consisting of GaP, a metal oxide (Al2O3 or ZnO), a phosphonate-C12-thiol monolayer, and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs).
Zwitterionic phosphonium ligands: synthesis, characterization and application in telomerization of 1,3-butadiene
Authors: Pews-Davtyan A. , Jackstell R. , Spannenberg A. , Beller M.
Published: May 2016

Novel zwitterionic phosphonium alkylsulfonate ligands are chemoselectively synthesized from N-heterocyclic phosphines and cyclic sulfones in one step in good to excellent yields.
Near-infrared in vivo bioimaging using a molecular upconversion probe
Authors: Liu Yi , Su Qianqian , Zou Xianmei , Chen Min , Feng Wei , Shi Yibing , Li Fuyou
Published: May 2016

A molecular upconversion probe with intense near-infrared emission has tremendous potential in bioimaging.
Secondary phases and their influence on the composition of the kesterite phase in CZTS and CZTSe thin films
Authors: Just Justus , Sutter-Fella Carolin M. , Lützenkirchen-Hecht Dirk , Frahm Ronald , Schorr Susan , Unold Thomas
Published: May 2016

ZnS and ZnSe secondary phases are detected in CZTS and CZTSe by XANES whenever the Zn/Sn ratio exceeds unity.
Quantum and classical dynamics of H + CaCl(X 2Σ+) → HCl + Ca(1S) reaction and vibrational energy levels of the HCaCl complex
Authors: Tan Rui Shan , Zhai Huan Chen , Gao Feng , Tong Dianmin , Lin Shi Ying
Published: May 2016

We carried out accurate quantum wave packet as well as quasi-classical trajectory (QCT) calculations for H + CaCl (νi = 0, ji = 0) reaction occurring on an adiabatic ground state. Recent ab initio potential energy surface is employed to calculate the quantum and QCT reaction probabilities for several partial waves (J = 0, 10, and 20) as well as state resolved QCT integral and differential cross sections.
Investigation of trimethylacetic acid adsorption on stoichiometric and oxygen-deficient CeO2(111) surfaces
Authors: Sanghavi Shail , Wang Weina , Nandasiri Manjula I. , Karakoti Ajay S. , Wang Wenliang , Yang Ping , Thevuthasan S.
Published: May 2016

Adsorption of trimethylacetic acid on the surface of stoichiometric and oxygen deficient cerium oxide studied using in situ XPS show that the dissociative adsorption is preferred on oxygen deficient cerium oxide (111) surface.
Electrochemical and photophysical behavior of 1-naphthol in benzyl-n-hexadecyldimethylammonium 1,4-bis(2-ethylhexyl)sulfosuccinate large unilamellar vesicles
Authors: Cobo Solis Airam K. , Mariano Correa N. , Molina Patricia G.
Published: May 2016

The behavior of 1-naphthol and its partition process in LUVs formed from a new catanionic surfactant were studied by electrochemical and spectroscopic techniques.
Chiral linker-bridged bis-N-heterocyclic carbenes: design, synthesis, palladium complexes, and catalytic properties
Authors: Zhang Dao , He Yu , Tang Junkai
Published: May 2016

A series of chiral linker-bridged bis(NHC) palladium complexes have been designed, synthesized and showed obviously different catalytic properties in the asymmetric Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reactions.
Synthesis, crystal structure, and luminescence properties of a new europium silicate
Authors: Liu Wei , Ji Ying , Wang Ying , Sun Qiushi , Zhao Xudong , Liu Xiaoyang , Jia Xiaopeng
Published: May 2016

A new europium silicate, NaEuSi3O7(OH)2 (denoted as 1), was synthesized under high-temperature and high-pressure conditions, and structurally characterized by single-crystal and powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses.
A gadolinium(iii) complex that shows room-temperature phosphorescence in the crystalline state
Authors: Nakai Hidetaka , Kitagawa Kazuhiro , Seo Juncheol , Matsumoto Takahiro , Ogo Seiji
Published: May 2016

A gadolinium(iii) complex that shows crystalline-state phosphorescence is presented; crystals color can be changed by doping of 1-naphthol.
Emerging investigators series: silica-crosslinked graphene oxide membrane and its unique capability in removing neutral organic molecules from water
Authors: Zheng Sunxiang , Mi Baoxia
Published: May 2016

A new graphene oxide (GO) membrane was synthesized by crosslinking GO nanosheetsviasilica. This membrane was found to remove neutral organic molecules much more efficiently than negatively charged ionic species.
High-throughput proteomics and the fight against pathogens
Authors: Horvatić Anita , Kuleš Josipa , Guillemin Nicolas , Galan Asier , Mrljak Vladimir , Bhide Mangesh
Published: May 2016

Pathogens pose a major threat to human and animal welfare. Understanding the interspecies host–pathogen protein–protein interactions could lead to the development of novel strategies to combat infectious diseases through the rapid development of new therapeutics.
Optical properties and fluorescence quenching of biologically active ethyl 4-(4-N,N-dimethylamino phenyl)-2-methyl-5-oxo-4,5-dihydro-1H-indeno[1,2-b]pyridine-3-carboxylate (DDPC) dye as a probe to determine CMC of surfactants
Authors: Khan Salman A. , Asiri Abdullah M. , Al-Thaqafy Saad H.
Published: May 2016

4-(4-N,N-Dimethylamino phenyl)-2-methyl-5-oxo-4,5-dihydro-1H-indeno[1,2-b]pyridine-3-carboxylate (DDPC) was prepared via the multi-component reaction of indane-1,3-dione with 4-(dimethylamino)benzaldehyde, ethyl acetoacetate and ammonium acetate.
Novel routes to quinoline derivatives from N-propargylamines
Authors: Vessally Esmail , Edjlali Ladan , Hosseinian Akram , Bekhradnia Ahmadreza , Esrafili Mehdi D.
Published: May 2016

A walk around the new avenue to the synthesis of quinoline derivatives from N-propargylamines.
Effect of variations of CuIIX2/L, surface area of Cu0, solvent, and temperature on atom transfer radical polyaddition of 4-vinylbenzyl 2-bromo-2-isobutyrate inimers
Authors: Huang Chih-Feng , Kuo Shiao-Wei , Moravčíková Daniela , Liao Jyun-Ci , Han Yu-Min , Lee Ting-Han , Wang Po-Hung , Lee Rong-Ho , Tsiang Raymond Chien-Chao , Mosnáček Jaroslav
Published: May 2016

Optimization of atom transfer radical polyadditions using commercially available catalytic systems allowed obtaining control over the polyester architecture and functionality and functional linear polyesters with high molecular weight (Mw = 16 200).
Study on thermal degradation and combustion behavior of flame retardant unsaturated polyester resin modified with a reactive phosphorus containing monomer
Authors: Lin Ying , Yu Bin , Jin Xin , Song Lei , Hu Yuan
Published: May 2016

A halogen-free phosphorus-containing monomer (TAOPO) was successfully synthesized and used as a co-curing agent to prepare intrinsic flame-retardant unsaturated polyester resin (FR-UPR) by radical bulk polymerization with different TAOPO content.
Recognition of diamond with phage display peptides
Authors: Swaminathan Swathi , Cui Yue
Published: May 2016

We show for the first time the identification of diamond-binding peptide motifs for diamond with phage display.
Superhydrophobic polytetrafluoroethylene surfaces by spray coating on porous and continuous substrates
Authors: Lin Kejun , Zang Duyang , Li Xiaoguang , Geng Xingguo
Published: May 2016

We study the preparation of superhydrophobic polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) coating by a spraying method with copper mesh and aluminum plate substrates.
Porous Ni–Cr–Fe alloys as cathode materials for the hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Xiao Yifeng , Liu Yan , Tang Zhi , Wu Liang , Zeng Yi , Xu Yanfei , He Yuehui
Published: May 2016

We report porous Ni–Cr–Fe cathode materials which possess high stability during prolonged electrolysis and good corrosion resistance in 6 M KOH, exhibiting promising characteristics as cathodes for the HER on an industrial scale.
Rh(iii)-catalyzed C–H oxidative ortho-olefination of arenes using 7-azaindole as a directing group and utilization in the construction of new tetracyclic heterocycles containing a 7-azaindole skeleton
Authors: Liu Bin , Li Ridong , Zhan Wei , Wang Xin , Ge Zemei , Li Runtao
Published: May 2016

A wide range of Rh(iii)-catalyzed ortho-olefinated 7-azaindole derivatives as well as novel tetracyclic heterorings were achieved, which could served as useful starting materials for the construction of biological molecules.
Oxygen oxidation of ethylbenzene over manganese porphyrin is promoted by the axial nitrogen coordination in powdered chitosan
Authors: Huang Guan , Yuan Ru Xun , Peng Yan , Chen Xiang Feng , Zhao Shu Kai , Wei Su Juan , Guo Wen Xin , Chen Xi
Published: May 2016

A less wasteful production method of oxidation ethylbenzene to acetophenone and phenethyl alcohol was adviced. It revealed an important role in tuning catalytic reactivity of metalloporphyrins by the axial ligand for oxidation of hydrocarbon.
A novel benzothiazole-based enaminone as a fluorescent probe for highly selective and sensitive detection of CN−
Authors: Tang Lijun , Zou Yinghui , Zhong Keli , Bian Yanjiang
Published: May 2016

A novel benzothiazole derived enaminone BTP as fluorescent probe for CN− recognition has been developed.
Influence of bicarbonate concentration on the conversion layer formation onto AZ31 magnesium alloy and its electrochemical corrosion behaviour in simulated body fluid
Authors: Srinivasan Arthanari , Shin Kwang Seon , Rajendran Nallaiyan
Published: May 2016

The electrochemical corrosion behaviour of a magnesium carbonate conversion layer-coated AZ31 magnesium alloy was evaluated in simulated body fluid (SBF) solution.
Poly(vinyl alcohol)/graphene oxide nanocomposites prepared by in situ polymerization with enhanced mechanical properties and water vapor barrier properties
Authors: Ma Jiaojiao , Li Ying , Yin Xiande , Xu Yu , Yue Jia , Bao Jianjun , Zhou Tao
Published: May 2016

A novel and one-stepin situpolymerization method for preparing the poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)/graphene oxide (GO) nanocomposites.
A self-supported SS-fiber@meso-HZSM-5 core–shell catalyst via caramel-assistant synthesis toward prolonged lifetime for the methanol-to-propylene reaction
Authors: Ding Jia , Zhang Zhiqiang , Han Lupeng , Wang Chunzheng , Chen Pengjing , Zhao Guofeng , Liu Ye , Lu Yong
Published: May 2016

Self-supported SS-fiber@meso-HZSM-5 core–shell catalyst prepared by caramel-assistant hydrothermal synthesis, delivered dramatically prolonged lifetime for MTP reaction due to its hierarchical design and favourably-tuned acidic properties.
Metallic 1T-WS2 nanoribbons as highly conductive electrodes for supercapacitors
Authors: Khalil Adnan , Liu Qin , He Qun , Xiang Ting , Liu Daobin , Wang Changda , Fang Qi , Song Li
Published: May 2016

Layered tungsten disulfide (WS2) has attracted great attention because of its high potential for electrochemical energy applications.
Supported Ni catalyst on a natural halloysite derived silica–alumina composite oxide with unexpected coke-resistant stability for steam-CO2 dual reforming of methane
Authors: Zhao Zhongkui , Ren Panpan , Li Weizuo
Published: May 2016

This work presents a facile and scalable approach for preparing robust supported Ni catalyst with unexpected catalytic stability with outstanding coke deposition and Ni-sintering resistance for steam-CO2 dual reforming of methane to produce syngas.
The rare cis-configured trisubstituted lactam products obtained by the Castagnoli–Cushman reaction in N,N-dimethylformamide
Authors: Dar'in Dmitry , Bakulina Olga , Nikolskaya Sofia , Gluzdikov Ivan , Krasavin Mikhail
Published: May 2016

Unlike its trans counterpart, the cis-configured scaffold derived from the Castagnoli–Cushman reaction (CCR) is scarce and has not been explored in bioactive compound design.
Freestanding flexible graphene foams@polypyrrole@MnO2 electrodes for high-performance supercapacitors
Authors: Qin Tianfeng , Liu Boli , Wen Yuxiang , Wang Zilei , Jiang Xinyu , Wan Zunyuan , Peng Shanglong , Cao Guozhong , He Deyan
Published: May 2016

A new composite electrode design was successfully fabricated based on 3D flexible graphene foams (GF) with interconnected macropores as the freestanding substrate and a composite of MnO2 nanoparticles and polypyrrole (PPy) as an integrated electrode.
Construction of sandwich-type hybrid structures by anchoring mesoporous ZnMn2O4nanofoams on reduced graphene oxide with highly enhanced capability
Authors: Gao Guoxin , Lu Shiyao , Dong Bitao , Yan Wei , Wang Wei , Zhao Teng , Lao Cheng-Ye , Xi Kai , Kumar R. Vasant , Ding Shujiang
Published: May 2016

When valuated as electrodes for LIBs, the sandwich-type rGO/ZnMn2O4NFs effectively promote the ion/charge transport whilst buffering volume variations upon continuous discharge/charge cycling.
A pseudo-capacitive chalcogenide-based electrode with dense 1-dimensional nanoarrays for enhanced energy density in asymmetric supercapacitors
Authors: Lee Young-Woo , Kim Byung-Sung , Hong John , Lee Juwon , Pak Sangyeon , Jang Hyun-Sik , Whang Dongmok , Cha SeungNam , Sohn Jung Inn , Kim Jong Min
Published: May 2016

Well-arrayed 1-D CuS structures with nanosized grains and high grain boundaries exhibit superior pseudo-capacitive properties.
Volatilizable template-assisted scalable preparation of honeycomb-like porous carbons for efficient oxygen electroreduction
Authors: Niu Wenhan , Li Ligui , Wang Nan , Zeng Shuaibo , Liu Ji , Zhao Dengke , Chen Shaowei
Published: May 2016

From pyrolysis of polypyrrole nanosheets containing volatilizable FeCl3 derivatives, facilely prepared via an interfacially confined polymerization method, a honeycomb-like porous carbon catalyst with efficient ORR activity and superb performance in a Zn–air battery prototype was obtained.
Correction: Fabrication of asymmetrical diffusion dialysis membranes for rapid acid recovery with high purity
Authors: Lin Xiaocheng , Shamsaei Ezzatollah , Kong Biao , Liu Jefferson Zhe , Xu Tongwen , Easton Christopher D. , Wang Huanting
Published: May 2016

Correction for ‘Fabrication of asymmetrical diffusion dialysis membranes for rapid acid recovery with high purity’ by Xiaocheng Lin et al., J. Mater. Chem. A, 2015, 3, 24000–24007.
Increased expression of SET domain-containing proteins and decreased expression of Rad51 in different classes of renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Liu Si , Li Yiyang , Xu Hongmei , Wang Kaichen , Li Nan , Li Jia , Sun Tao , Xu Ying
Published: May 2016

In the present study, we aimed to examine whether SET domain-containing methyltransferases are up-regulated in different classes of renal cell carcinoma. We immunoblotted against SET domain and quantified the expression of these modular domains. Furthermore, we examined the expression of Rad51, the key protein that confers genomic stability. There was enhanced expression of SET domain-containing histone methyltransferases in whole lysates of all classes of renal carcinoma. In metastatic high grade clear cell carcinoma, this expression was more pronounced. Though we could not demonstrate direct correlation, we showed that epigenetic modification by methylation is associated with decreased genomic translation of Rad51.
Development of a clinical decision support system using genetic algorithms and Bayesian classification for improving the personalised management of women attending a colposcopy room
Authors: Bountris Panagiotis , Topaka Elena , Pouliakis Abraham , Haritou Maria , Karakitsos Petros , Koutsouris Dimitrios
Published: May 2016

Cervical cancer (CxCa) is often the result of underestimated abnormalities in the test Papanicolaou (Pap test). The recent advances in the study of the human papillomavirus (HPV) infection (the necessary cause for CxCa development) have guided clinical practice to add HPV related tests alongside the Pap test. In this way, today, HPV DNA testing is well accepted as an ancillary test and it is used for the triage of women with abnormal findings in cytology. However, these tests are either highly sensitive or highly specific, and therefore none of them provides an optimal solution. In this Letter, a clinical decision support system based on a hybrid genetic algorithm – Bayesian classification framework is presented, which combines the results of the Pap test with those of the HPV DNA test in order to exploit the benefits of each method and produce more accurate outcomes. Compared with the medical tests and their combinations (co‐testing), the proposed system produced the best receiver operating characteristic curve and the most balanced combination among sensitivity and specificity in detecting high‐grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia and CxCa (CIN2+). This system may support decision‐making for the improved management of women who attend a colposcopy room following a positive test result.
Hybrid short‐term prediction of traffic volume at ferry terminal based on data fusion
Authors: Zhang Weibin , Tang Jinjun , Kristian Henrickson , Zou Yajie , Wang Yinhai
Published: May 2016

Ferry traffic prediction is an important consideration for urban transportation authorities. A novel methodology which considers cyclical patterns in ferry on‐board vehicle traffic and improves on this method by incorporating traffic data from nearby freeway loop detectors is proposed. Since vehicles arriving in ferry terminals often originate from nearby freeways, the study of freeway traffic flow can improve ferry traffic prediction, especially during peak travel periods. In this study, the authors first identify periodic patterns in ferry traffic through analysis in both the time and frequency domain, and propose a modelling methodology which considers these patterns in short‐term traffic prediction. In the proposed model, the ferry traffic volume is divided into periodic and dynamic components, with the periodic component approximated by trigonometric functions. Second, this model is expanded to incorporate measured traffic data on nearby freeways. Specifically, the correlation between freeway traffic and ferry traffic volume is studied, and an enhanced model is proposed which integrates the predictions obtained through historical ferry data and from freeway traffic during peak travel time periods. Validation results demonstrate that consideration of periodic patterns increases prediction accuracy and that the proposed model further improves the ferry traffic prediction accuracy during peak time periods.
Enhanced control of grid‐connected inverters with non‐linear inductor in LCL filter
Authors: Safamehr Hossein , Najafabadi Tooraj Abbasian , Salmasi Farzad Rajaei
Published: May 2016

In grid‐connected inverters, utilisation of an appropriate output filter is vital to improve power quality. However, the filter, which comprises of capacitor and inductor(s), should be cost effective. In this study, an LCL filter with non‐linear inverter‐side inductor is used to reduce the filter volume and cost. In order to harness the undesirable non‐linear behaviour of the LCL filter's inductor, a new control scheme based on proportional‐resonant controller is proposed. The control strategy is based on combinational feedback of inverter‐side and grid‐side currents, with online adaptive estimation of non‐linear inductor. With this scheme, the harmonic compensators’ gains can be reduced, while stability margins and dynamic response are improved. Therefore, while a cost‐effective filter is used at the inverter output, acceptable total harmonic distortion is achieved. Experimental tests based on a 7 kW digital signal processor controlled prototype inverter are provided to verify the proposed control strategy for grid‐connected inverters with LCL output filter benefiting from low‐cost non‐linear inductor.
Exploiting the thermal potential of deep seawater for compensating losses in offshore hydraulic wind power transmission pipelines
Authors: Sant Tonio , Buhagiar Daniel , Farrugia Robert N.
Published: May 2016

The use of hydraulic power transmission to transport offshore wind energy from deep offshore sites to shore may present a more feasible option for integrating wind farms with land‐based hydro‐energy storage systems. Yet the incurred losses resulting from fluid friction are significantly larger than those encountered in electrical power cables. This study investigates the possibility of compensating for such losses by exploiting cold deep‐seawater (DSW) from below thermoclines. A numerical study simulating a single large‐scale offshore wind turbine‐driven pump supplying DSW to shore across a pipeline in the Central Mediterranean is presented. Seawater leaving the grid‐connected hydroelectric power plant is allowed to flow through a centralised district air‐conditioning unit operating on a vapour compression cycle. Any shortfall in DSW supply due to lack of wind is compensated for by sea surface water to maintain a constant flow rate. The analysis is repeated for seawater pipelines having different sizes. It is shown that the deep seawater supply from the offshore wind turbine, though being intermittent, reduces the energy consumption of the air‐conditioning system considerably. The resulting savings are found to compensate for a significant proportion of the losses encountered in the hydraulic transmission pipeline.
Minimum‐features‐based ANN‐PSO approach for islanding detection in distribution system
Authors: Raza Safdar , Mokhlis Hazlie , Arof Hamzah , Naidu Kanendra , Laghari Javed Ahmed , Khairuddin Anis Salwa Mohd
Published: May 2016

Islanding detection is important for the protection of any distribution system connected to distributed energy resources (DER's). This study proposes an intelligent islanding detection technique based on artificial neural network (ANN) that employs minimal features from the power system. The accuracy of the trained ANN is improved by optimising the learning rate, momentum and number of neurons in the hidden layers using evolutionary programming (EP) and particle swarm optimisation (PSO). The performance comparison between stand‐alone ANN, ANN‐EP and ANN‐PSO in the form of regression value is performed to obtain the best feature combination for an efficient islanding detection. The proposed technique is tested on‐ and off‐line for various islanding and non‐islanding events. The simulation results indicate that the proposed technique can successfully distinguish islanding from other non‐islanding events such as load variation, capacitor switching, faults, induction motor starting and DER tripping.
Prozeduren, die in der Allgemeinmedizin durchgeführt werden – eine Querschnittstudie
Authors: Steinhäuser J. , Jäkel K. , Szecsenyi J. , Goetz K. , Ledig T. , Joos S.
Published: May 2016

Ziel der Studie: Allgemeinmedizin (AM) beinhaltet die Grundversorgung aller Patienten. Dementsprechend führen Allgemeinärzte vielfältige diagnostische oder therapeutische Maßnahmen (= medizinische Prozeduren) durch. Für die Abschätzung des Leistungsspektrums von Hausärzten aus Sicht der Versorgungsforschung ist es unabdingbar, die wesentlichen medizinischen Prozeduren, die von Allgemeinärzten vorgehalten werden, zu kennen und wesentliche Einflussfaktoren darauf zu identifizieren.

Methodik: Aus den Ergebnissen einer selektiven Literaturrecherche, den Anforderungen der Weiterbildungsordnung und den Erfahrungen der Autoren aus dem bisherigen Entwicklungsprozess des kompetenzbasierten Curriculums AM wurde ein Fragebogen mit 89 verschiedenen medizinischen Prozeduren erstellt. Dieser wurde an eine zufällige Stichprobe von 1 576 Allgemeinärzten in ganz Deutschland versendet.

Ergebnisse: Die Rücklaufquote betrug 42%. 42 der 89 Prozeduren wurden von mindestens 50% der Teilnehmer in ihrer Praxis durchgeführt. Diese Prozeduren betreffen vor allem solche, die der Haut, den Augen, den Ohren, der Nase, dem Gastrointestinaltrakt, dem Harntrakt und dem Muskuloskeletalsystem zugeordnet werden können. Signifikante Unterschiede zeigten sich bei 25 der 42 häufigsten Prozeduren hinsichtlich ländlich und städtisch praktizierender Ärzte, bei 9 Prozeduren hinsichtlich der Dauer der hausärztlichen Tätigkeit und bei 19 Prozeduren hinsichtlich des Geschlechts der Teilnehmer.

Schlussfolgerung: Mit der vorliegenden Erhebung konnte erstmals gezeigt werden, welche medizinischen Prozeduren von Allgemeinärzten mit welcher Häufigkeit in Deutschland durchgeführt werden. Mit der Lokalisation des Praxissitzes im ländlichen oder städtischen Bereich, dem Geschlecht und der Niederlassungsdauer konnten wesentliche Einflussfaktoren auf das Leistungsspektrum identifiziert werden.