bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bubbler: A Novel Ultra-High Power Density Energy Harvesting Method Based on Reverse Electrowetting
Authors: Hsu Tsung-Hsing , Manakasettharn Supone , Taylor J. Ashley , Krupenkin Tom
Published: November 2015

We have proposed and successfully demonstrated a novel approach to direct conversion of mechanical energy into electrical energy using microfluidics. The method combines previously demonstrated reverse electrowetting on dielectric (REWOD) phenomenon with the fast self-oscillating process of bubble growth and collapse. Fast bubble dynamics, used in conjunction with REWOD, provides a possibility to increase the generated power density by over an order of magnitude, as compared to the REWOD alone. This energy conversion approach is particularly well suited for energy harvesting applications and can enable effective coupling to a broad array of mechanical systems including such ubiquitous but difficult to utilize low-frequency energy sources as human and machine motion. The method can be scaled from a single micro cell with 10−6 W output to power cell arrays with a total power output in excess of 10 W. This makes the fabrication of small light-weight energy harvesting devices capable of producing a wide range of power outputs feasible.
The FDA-approved natural product dihydroergocristine reduces the production of the Alzheimer’s disease amyloid-β peptides
Authors: Lei Xiling , Yu Jing , Niu Qi , Liu Jianhua , Fraering Patrick C. , Wu Fang
Published: November 2015

Known γ-secretase inhibitors or modulators display an undesirable pharmacokinetic profile and toxicity and have therefore not been successful in clinical trials for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). So far, no compounds from natural products have been identified as direct inhibitors of γ-secretase. To search for bioactive molecules that can reduce the amount of amyloid-beta peptides (Aβ) and that have better pharmacokinetics and an improved safety profile, we completed a screen of ~400 natural products by using cell-based and cell-free γ-secretase activity assays. We identified dihydroergocristine (DHEC), a component of an FDA- (Food and Drug Administration)-approved drug, to be a direct inhibitor of γ-secretase. Micromolar concentrations of DHEC substantially reduced Aβ levels in different cell types, including a cell line derived from an AD patient. Structure-activity relationship studies implied that the key moiety for inhibiting γ-secretase is the cyclized tripeptide moiety of DHEC. A Surface Plasmon Resonance assay showed that DHEC binds directly to γ-secretase and Nicastrin, with equilibrium dissociation constants (Kd) of 25.7 nM and 9.8 μM, respectively. This study offers DHEC not only as a new chemical moiety for selectively modulating the activity of γ-secretase but also a candidate for drug repositioning in Alzheimer’s disease.
Disease-induced resource constraints can trigger explosive epidemics
Authors: Böttcher L. , Woolley-Meza O. , Araújo N. A. M. , Herrmann H. J. , Helbing D.
Published: November 2015

Advances in mathematical epidemiology have led to a better understanding of the risks posed by epidemic spreading and informed strategies to contain disease spread. However, a challenge that has been overlooked is that, as a disease becomes more prevalent, it can limit the availability of the capital needed to effectively treat those who have fallen ill. Here we use a simple mathematical model to gain insight into the dynamics of an epidemic when the recovery of sick individuals depends on the availability of healing resources that are generated by the healthy population. We find that epidemics spiral out of control into “explosive” spread if the cost of recovery is above a critical cost. This can occur even when the disease would die out without the resource constraint. The onset of explosive epidemics is very sudden, exhibiting a discontinuous transition under very general assumptions. We find analytical expressions for the critical cost and the size of the explosive jump in infection levels in terms of the parameters that characterize the spreading process. Our model and results apply beyond epidemics to contagion dynamics that self-induce constraints on recovery, thereby amplifying the spreading process.
Hierarchical, porous CuS microspheres integrated with carbon nanotubes for high-performance supercapacitors
Authors: Lu Yang , Liu Xianming , Wang Weixiao , Cheng Jinbing , Yan Hailong , Tang Chengchun , Kim Jang-Kyo , Luo Yongsong
Published: November 2015

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) incorporated porous 3-dimensional (3D) CuS microspheres have been successfully synthesized via a simple refluxing method assisted by PVP. The composites are composed of flower-shaped CuS secondary microspheres, which in turn are assembled with primary nanosheets of 15–30 nm in thickness and fully integrated with CNT. The composites possess a large specific surface area of 189.6 m2 g−1 and a high conductivity of 0.471 S cm−1. As electrode materials for supercapacitors, the nanocomposites show excellent cyclability and rate capability and deliver an average reversible capacitance as high as 1960 F g−1 at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 over 10000 cycles. The high electrochemical performance can be attributed to the synergistic effect of CNTs and the unique microstructure of CuS. The CNTs serve as not only a conductive agent to accelerate the transfer of electrons in the composites, but also as a buffer matrix to restrain the volume change and stabilize the electrode structure during the charge/discharge process. The porous structure of CuS also helps to stabilize the electrode structure and facilitates the transport for electrons.
Improved anti-glioblastoma efficacy by IL-13Rα2 mediated copolymer nanoparticles loaded with paclitaxel
Authors: Wang Baoyan , Lv Lingyan , Wang Zhi , Jiang Yan , Lv Wei , Liu Xin , Wang Zhongyuan , Zhao Yue , Xin Hongliang , Xu Qunwei
Published: November 2015

Glioma presents one of the most malignant brain tumors and the therapeutic effect is often limited due to the existence of brain tumor barrier. Based on interleukin-13 receptor α2 (IL-13Rα2) over-expression on glioma cell, it was demonstrated to be a potential receptor for glioma targeting. In this study, Pep-1-conjugated PEGylated nanoparticles loaded with paclitaxel (Pep-NP-PTX) were developed as a targeting drug delivery system for glioma treatment. The Pep-NP-PTX presented satisfactory size of 95.78 nm with narrow size distribution. Compared with NP-PTX, Pep-NP-PTX exhibited significantly enhanced cellular uptake in C6 cells (p < 0.001). The in vitro anti-proliferation evaluation showed that the IC50 were 146 ng/ml and 349 ng/ml of Pep-NP-PTX and NP-PTX, respectively. The in vivo fluorescent image results indicated that Pep-NP had higher specificity and efficiency in intracranial tumor accumulation. Following intravenous administration, Pep-NP-PTX could enhance the distribution of PTX in vivo glioma section, 1.98, 1.91 and 1.53-fold over that of NP-PTX group after 0.5, 1 and 4 h, respectively. Pep-NP-PTX could improve the anti-glioma efficacy with a median survival time of 32 days, which was significantly longer than that of PTX-NP (23 days) and Taxol® (22 days). In conclusion, Pep-NP-PTX is a potential targeting drug delivery system for glioma treatment.
Radiological dose reconstruction for birds reconciles outcomes of Fukushima with knowledge of dose-effect relationships
Authors: Garnier-Laplace Jacqueline , Beaugelin-Seiller Karine , Della-Vedova Claire , Métivier Jean-Michel , Ritz Christian , Mousseau Timothy A. , Pape Møller Anders
Published: November 2015

We reconstructed the radiological dose for birds observed at 300 census sites in the 50-km northwest area affected by the accident at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant over 2011–2014. Substituting the ambient dose rate measured at the census points (from 0.16 to 31 μGy h−1) with the dose rate reconstructed for adult birds of each species (from 0.3 to 97 μGy h−1), we confirmed that the overall bird abundance at Fukushima decreased with increasing total doses. This relationship was directly consistent with exposure levels found in the literature to induce physiological disturbances in birds. Among the 57 species constituting the observed bird community, we found that 90% were likely chronically exposed at a dose rate that could potentially affect their reproductive success. We quantified a loss of 22.6% of the total number of individuals per increment of one unit log10-tansformed total dose (in Gy), over the four-year post-accident period in the explored area. We estimated that a total dose of 0.55 Gy reduced by 50% the total number of birds in the study area over 2011–2014. The data also suggest a significant positive relationship between total dose and species diversity.
Structure-based drug design targeting the cell membrane receptor GPBAR1: exploiting the bile acid scaffold towards selective agonism
Authors: Di Leva Francesco Saverio , Festa Carmen , Renga Barbara , Sepe Valentina , Novellino Ettore , Fiorucci Stefano , Zampella Angela , Limongelli Vittorio
Published: November 2015

Bile acids can regulate nutrient metabolism through the activation of the cell membrane receptor GPBAR1 and the nuclear receptor FXR. Developing an exogenous control over these receptors represents an attractive strategy for the treatment of enterohepatic and metabolic disorders. A number of dual GPBAR1/FXR agonists are known, however their therapeutic use is limited by multiple unwanted effects due to activation of the diverse downstream signals controlled by the two receptors. On the other hand, designing selective GPBAR1 and FXR agonists is challenging since the two proteins share similar structural requisites for ligand binding. Here, taking advantage of our knowledge of the two targets, we have identified through a rational drug design study a series of amine lithocholic acid derivatives as selective GPBAR1 agonists. The presence of the 3α-NH2 group on the steroidal scaffold is responsible for the selectivity over FXR unveiling unprecedented structural insights into bile acid receptors activity modulation.
Triggering of high-speed neurite outgrowth using an optical microheater
Authors: Oyama Kotaro , Zeeb Vadim , Kawamura Yuki , Arai Tomomi , Gotoh Mizuho , Itoh Hideki , Itabashi Takeshi , Suzuki Madoka , Ishiwata Shin’ichi
Published: November 2015

Optical microheating is a powerful non-invasive method for manipulating biological functions such as gene expression, muscle contraction and cell excitation. Here, we demonstrate its potential usage for regulating neurite outgrowth. We found that optical microheating with a water-absorbable 1,455-nm laser beam triggers directional and explosive neurite outgrowth and branching in rat hippocampal neurons. The focused laser beam under a microscope rapidly increases the local temperature from 36 °C to 41 °C (stabilized within 2 s), resulting in the elongation of neurites by more than 10 μm within 1 min. This high-speed, persistent elongation of neurites was suppressed by inhibitors of both microtubule and actin polymerization, indicating that the thermosensitive dynamics of these cytoskeletons play crucial roles in this heat-induced neurite outgrowth. Furthermore, we showed that microheating induced the regrowth of injured neurites and the interconnection of neurites. These results demonstrate the efficacy of optical microheating methods for the construction of arbitrary neural networks.
Nanostructures of Indium Gallium Nitride Crystals Grown on Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Park Ji-Yeon , Man Song Keun , Min Yo-Sep , Choi Chel-Jong , Seok Kim Yoon , Lee Sung-Nam
Published: November 2015

Nanostructure (NS) InGaN crystals were grown on carbon nanotubes (CNTs) using metalorganic chemical vapor deposition. The NS-InGaN crystals, grown on a ~5-μm-long CNT/Si template, were estimated to be ~100–270 nm in size. Transmission electron microscope examinations revealed that single-crystalline InGaN NSs were formed with different crystal facets. The observed green (~500 nm) cathodoluminescence (CL) emission was consistent with the surface image of the NS-InGaN crystallites, indicating excellent optical properties of the InGaN NSs on CNTs. Moreover, the CL spectrum of InGaN NSs showed a broad emission band from 490 to 600 nm. Based on these results, we believe that InGaN NSs grown on CNTs could aid in overcoming the green gap in LED technologies.
High-power graphene mode-locked Tm/Ho co-doped fiber laser with evanescent field interaction
Authors: Li Xiaohui , Yu Xuechao , Sun Zhipei , Yan Zhiyu , Sun Biao , Cheng Yuanbing , Yu Xia , Zhang Ying , Wang Qi Jie
Published: November 2015

Mid-infrared ultrafast fiber lasers are valuable for various applications, including chemical and biomedical sensing, material processing and military applications. Here, we report all-fiber high-power graphene mode-locked Tm/Ho co-doped fiber laser at long wavelength with evanescent field interaction. Ultrafast pulses up to 7.8 MHz are generated at a center wavelength of 1879.4 nm, with a pulse width of 4.7 ps. A graphene absorber integrated with a side-polished fiber can increase the damage threshold significantly. Harmonics mode-locking can be obtained till to the 21th harmonics at a pump power of above 500 mW. By using one stage amplifier in the anomalous dispersion regime, the laser can be amplified up to 450 mW and the narrowest pulse duration of 1.4 ps can be obtained simultaneously. Our work paves the way to graphene Tm/Ho co-doped mode-locked all-fiber master oscillator power amplifiers as potentially efficient and economic laser sources for high-power laser applications, such as special material processing and nonlinear optical studies.
The coastal ocean response to the global warming acceleration and hiatus
Authors: Liao Enhui , Lu Wenfang , Yan Xiao-Hai , Jiang Yuwu , Kidwell Autumn
Published: November 2015

Coastlines are fundamental to humans for habitation, commerce and natural resources. Many coastal ecosystem disasters, caused by extreme sea surface temperature (SST), were reported when the global climate shifted from global warming to global surface warming hiatus after 1998. The task of understanding the coastal SST variations within the global context is an urgent matter. Our study on the global coastal SST from 1982 to 2013 revealed a significant cooling trend in the low and mid latitudes (31.4% of the global coastlines) after 1998, while 17.9% of the global coastlines changed from a cooling trend to a warming trend concurrently. The trend reversals in the Northern Pacific and Atlantic coincided with the phase shift of Pacific Decadal Oscillation and North Atlantic Oscillation, respectively. These coastal SST changes are larger than the changes of the global mean and open ocean, resulting in a fast increase of extremely hot/cold days and thus extremely hot/cold events. Meanwhile, a continuous increase of SST was detected for a considerable portion of coastlines (46.7%) with a strengthened warming along the coastlines in the high northern latitudes. This suggests the warming still continued and strengthened in some regions after 1998, but with a weaker pattern in the low and mid latitudes.
Rapid and robust spatiotemporal dynamics of the first-order phase transition in crystals of the organic-inorganic perovskite (C12H25NH3)2PbI4
Authors: Yangui Aymen , Sy Mouhamadou , Li Liang , Abid Younes , Naumov Panče , Boukheddaden Kamel
Published: November 2015

The dynamics of the thermally induced first-order structural phase transition in a high-quality single crystal of the organic-inorganic perovskite (C12H25NH3)2PbI4 was investigated by optical microscopy. The propagation of the straight phase front (habit plane) during the phase transition along the cooling and heating pathways of the thermal hysteresis was observed. The thermochromic character of the transition allowed monitoring of the thermal dependence of average optical density and aided the visualization of the interface propagation. The thermal hysteresis loop is 10 K wide and the interface velocity is constant at V ≈ 1.6 mm s–1. The transition is accompanied with sizeable change in crystal size, with elongation of ~6% along the b axis and compression of ~ –2% along the a axis, in excellent agreement with previously reported X-ray diffraction data. The progression of the habit plane is at least 160 times faster than in spin-crossover materials and opens new prospects for organic-inorganic perovskites as solid switching materials. Moreover, the crystals of (C12H25NH3)2PbI4 are unusually mechanically robust and present excellent resilience to thermal cycling. These hitherto unrecognized properties turn this and possibly similar hybrid perovskites into perspective candidates as active medium for microscopic actuation.
Prevalence and molecular characterizations of enterovirus D68 among children with acute respiratory infection in China between 2012 and 2014
Authors: Xiao Qiuyan , Ren Luo , Zheng Shouyan , Wang Lili , Xie Xiaohong , Deng Yu , Zhao Yao , Zhao Xiaodong , Luo Zhengxiu , Fu Zhou , Huang Ailong , Liu Enmei
Published: November 2015

EV-D68 is associated with respiratory tract infections (RTIs). Since its first isolation, EV-D68 has been detected sporadically. However, the US and Canada have experienced outbreaks of EV-D68 infections between August and December 2014. This study aimed to investigate the molecular epidemiology and clinical characteristics of EV-D68 in Chongqing, Southwestern China. From January 2012 to November 2014, 1876 nasopharyngeal aspirate specimens (NPAs) were collected from hospitalized children with RTIs. Among the 1876 NPAs, EV-D68 was detected in 19 samples (1.0%, 19/1876). Of these, 13 samples were detected in September and October 2014 (9.8%, 13/132). Phylogenetic analysis showed that all 13 strains detected in the 2014 Chongqing had high homology with the main strains of the 2014 US outbreak. Among the children with EV-D68 infection, 13 (68%) had a history of recurrent wheezing. A total of 13 children had a discharge diagnosis of asthma. Of these, 11 children were diagnosed with acute asthma exacerbation. EV-D68 was the predominant pathogen that evoked asthma exacerbation in September and October 2014. In conclusion, our results found that a history of recurrent wheezing may be a risk factor for the detection of EV-D68 and viral-induced asthma exacerbation may be a clinical feature of EV-D68 infection.
Impacts of the ENSO Modoki and other Tropical Indo-Pacific Climate-Drivers on African Rainfall
Authors: Preethi B. , Sabin T. P. , Adedoyin J. A. , Ashok K.
Published: November 2015

The study diagnoses the relative impacts of the four known tropical Indo-Pacific drivers, namely, El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO), ENSO Modoki, Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) and Indian Ocean Basin-wide mode (IOBM) on African seasonal rainfall variability. The canonical El Niño and El Niño Modoki are in general associated with anomalous reduction (enhancement) of rainfall in southern (northern) hemispheric regions during March-May season. However, both the El Niño flavours anomalously reduce the northern hemispheric rainfall during June-September. Interestingly, during boreal spring and summer, in many regions, the Indian Ocean drivers have influences opposite to those from tropical Pacific drivers. On the other hand, during the October-December season, the canonical El Niño and/or positive IOD are associated with an anomalous enhancement of rainfall in the Eastern Africa, while the El Niño Modoki events are associated with an opposite impact. In addition to the Walker circulation changes, the Indo-Pacific drivers influence the African rainfall through modulating jet streams. During boreal summer, the El Niño Modoki and canonical El Niño (positive IOD) tend to weaken (strengthen) the tropical easterly jet and result in strengthening (weakening) and southward shift of African easterly jet. This anomalously reduces (enhances) rainfall in the tropical north, including Sahelian Africa.
Heat Transport Compensation in Atmosphere and Ocean over the Past 22,000 Years
Authors: Yang Haijun , Zhao Yingying , Liu Zhengyu , Li Qing , He Feng , Zhang Qiong
Published: November 2015

The Earth’s climate has experienced dramatic changes over the past 22,000 years; however, the total meridional heat transport (MHT) of the climate system remains stable. A 22,000-year-long simulation using an ocean-atmosphere coupled model shows that the changes in atmosphere and ocean MHT are significant but tend to be out of phase in most regions, mitigating the total MHT change, which helps to maintain the stability of the Earth’s overall climate. A simple conceptual model is used to understand the compensation mechanism. The simple model can reproduce qualitatively the evolution and compensation features of the MHT over the past 22,000 years. We find that the global energy conservation requires the compensation changes in the atmosphere and ocean heat transports. The degree of compensation is mainly determined by the local climate feedback between surface temperature and net radiation flux at the top of the atmosphere. This study suggests that an internal mechanism may exist in the climate system, which might have played a role in constraining the global climate change over the past 22,000 years.
Human proximal tubule epithelial cells cultured on hollow fibers: living membranes that actively transport organic cations
Authors: Jansen J. , De Napoli I. E , Fedecostante M. , Schophuizen C. M. S. , Chevtchik N. V. , Wilmer M. J. , van Asbeck A. H. , Croes H. J. , Pertijs J. C. , Wetzels J. F. M. , Hilbrands L. B. , van den Heuvel L. P. , Hoenderop J. G. , Stamatialis D. , Masereeuw R.
Published: November 2015

The bioartificial kidney (BAK) aims at improving dialysis by developing ‘living membranes’ for cells-aided removal of uremic metabolites. Here, unique human conditionally immortalized proximal tubule epithelial cell (ciPTEC) monolayers were cultured on biofunctionalized MicroPES (polyethersulfone) hollow fiber membranes (HFM) and functionally tested using microfluidics. Tight monolayer formation was demonstrated by abundant zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) protein expression along the tight junctions of matured ciPTEC on HFM. A clear barrier function of the monolayer was confirmed by limited diffusion of FITC-inulin. The activity of the organic cation transporter 2 (OCT2) in ciPTEC was evaluated in real-time using a perfusion system by confocal microscopy using 4-(4-(dimethylamino)styryl)-N-methylpyridinium iodide (ASP+) as a fluorescent substrate. Initial ASP+ uptake was inhibited by a cationic uremic metabolites mixture and by the histamine H2-receptor antagonist, cimetidine. In conclusion, a ‘living membrane’ of renal epithelial cells on MicroPES HFM with demonstrated active organic cation transport was successfully established as a first step in BAK engineering.
Hybrid Toffoli gate on photons and quantum spins
Authors: Luo Ming-Xing , Ma Song-Ya , Chen Xiu-Bo , Wang Xiaojun
Published: November 2015

Quantum computation offers potential advantages in solving a number of interesting and difficult problems. Several controlled logic gates, the elemental building blocks of quantum computer, have been realized with various physical systems. A general technique was recently proposed that significantly reduces the realization complexity of multiple-control logic gates by harnessing multi-level information carriers. We present implementations of a key quantum circuit: the three-qubit Toffoli gate. By exploring the optical selection rules of one-sided optical microcavities, a Toffoli gate may be realized on all combinations of photon and quantum spins in the QD-cavity. The three general controlled-NOT gates are involved using an auxiliary photon with two degrees of freedom. Our results show that photons and quantum spins may be used alternatively in quantum information processing.
Plasmon-Enhanced Surface Photovoltage of ZnO/Ag Nanogratings
Authors: Gwon Minji , Sohn Ahrum , Cho Yunae , Phark Soo-Hyon , Ko Jieun , Sang Kim Youn , Kim Dong-Wook
Published: November 2015

We investigated the surface photovoltage (SPV) behaviors of ZnO/Ag one-dimensional (1D) nanogratings using Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM). The grating structure could couple surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) with photons, giving rise to strong light confinement at the ZnO/Ag interface. The larger field produced more photo-excited carriers and increased the SPV. SPP excitation influenced the spatial distribution of the photo-excited carriers and their recombination processes. As a result, the SPV relaxation time clearly depended on the wavelength and polarization of the incident light. All of these results suggested that SPV measurement using KPFM should be very useful for studying the plasmonic effects in nanoscale metal/semiconductor hybrid structures.
miR-34a screened by miRNA profiling negatively regulates Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in Aflatoxin B1 induced hepatotoxicity
Authors: Zhu Liye , Gao Jing , Huang Kunlun , Luo Yunbo , Zhang Boyang , Xu Wentao
Published: November 2015

Aflatoxin-B1 (AFB1), a hepatocarcinogenic mycotoxin, was demonstrated to induce the high rate of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). MicroRNAs (miRNAs) participate in the regulation of several biological processes in HCC. However, the function of miRNAs in AFB1-induced HCC has received a little attention. Here, we applied Illumina deep sequencing technology for high-throughout profiling of microRNAs in HepG2 cells lines after treatment with AFB1. Analysis of the differential expression profile of miRNAs in two libraries, we identified 9 known miRNAs and 1 novel miRNA which exhibited abnormal expression. KEGG analysis indicated that predicted target genes of differentially expressed miRNAs are involved in cancer-related pathways. Down-regulated of Drosha, DGCR8 and Dicer 1 indicated an impairment of miRNA biogenesis in response to AFB1. miR-34a was up-regulated significantly, down-regulating the expression of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway by target gene β-catenin. Anti-miR-34a can significantly relieved the down-regulated β-catenin and its downstream genes, c-myc and Cyclin D1 and the S-phase arrest in cell cycle induced by AFB1 can also be relieved. These results suggested that AFB1 might down-regulate Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in HepG2 cells by up-regulating miR-34a, which may involve in the mechanism of liver tumorigenesis.
Boron nitride encapsulated copper nanoparticles: a facile one-step synthesis and their effect on thermal decomposition of ammonium perchlorate
Authors: Huang Caijin , liu Qiuwen , Fan Wenjie , Qiu Xiaoqing
Published: November 2015

Reactivity is of great importance for metal nanoparticles used as catalysts, biomaterials and advanced sensors, but seeking for high reactivity seems to be conflict with high chemical stability required for metal nanoparticles. There is a subtle balance between reactivity and stability. This could be reached for colloidal metal nanoparticles using organic capping reagents, whereas it is challenging for powder metal nanoparticles. Here, we developed an alternative approach to encapsulate copper nanoparticles with a chemical inertness material—hexagonal boron nitride. The wrapped copper nanoparticles not only exhibit high oxidation resistance under air atmosphere, but also keep excellent promoting effect on thermal decomposition of ammonium perchlorate. This approach opens the way to design metal nanoparticles with both high stability and reactivity for nanocatalysts and their technological application.
Optical coherence tomography-guided laser microsurgery for blood coagulation with continuous-wave laser diode
Authors: Chang Feng-Yu , Tsai Meng-Tsan , Wang Zu-Yi , Chi Chun-Kai , Lee Cheng-Kuang , Yang Chih-Hsun , Chan Ming-Che , Lee Ya-Ju
Published: November 2015

Blood coagulation is the clotting and subsequent dissolution of the clot following repair to the damaged tissue. However, inducing blood coagulation is difficult for some patients with homeostasis dysfunction or during surgery. In this study, we proposed a method to develop an integrated system that combines optical coherence tomography (OCT) and laser microsurgery for blood coagulation. Also, an algorithm for positioning of the treatment location from OCT images was developed. With OCT scanning, 2D/3D OCT images and angiography of tissue can be obtained simultaneously, enabling to noninvasively reconstruct the morphological and microvascular structures for real-time monitoring of changes in biological tissues during laser microsurgery. Instead of high-cost pulsed lasers, continuous-wave laser diodes (CW-LDs) with the central wavelengths of 450 nm and 532 nm are used for blood coagulation, corresponding to higher absorption coefficients of oxyhemoglobin and deoxyhemoglobin. Experimental results showed that the location of laser exposure can be accurately controlled with the proposed approach of imaging-based feedback positioning. Moreover, blood coagulation can be efficiently induced by CW-LDs and the coagulation process can be monitored in real-time with OCT. This technology enables to potentially provide accurate positioning for laser microsurgery and control the laser exposure to avoid extra damage by real-time OCT imaging.
High-efficiency exfoliation of layered materials into 2D nanosheets in switchable CO2/Surfactant/H2O system
Authors: Wang Nan , Xu Qun , Xu Shanshan , Qi Yuhang , Chen Meng , Li Hongxiang , Han Buxing
Published: November 2015

Layered materials present attractive and important properties due to their two-dimensional (2D) structure, allowing potential applications including electronics, optoelectronics and catalysis. However, fully exploiting the outstanding properties will require a method for their efficient exfoliation. Here we present that a series of layered materials can be successfully exfoliated into single- and few-layer nanosheets using the driving forces coming from the phase inversion, i.e., from micelles to reverse micelles in the emulsion microenvironment built by supercritical carbon dioxide (SC CO2). The effect of variable experimental parameters including CO2 pressure, ethanol/water ratio and initial concentration of bulk materials on the exfoliation yield have been investigated. Moreover, we demonstrate that the exfoliated 2D nanosheets have their worthwhile applications, for example, graphene can be used to prepare conductive paper, MoS2 can be used as fluorescent label to perform cellular labelling and BN can effectively reinforce polymers leading to the promising mechanical properties.
Fluorescence turn-on detection of mercury ions based on the controlled adsorption of a perylene probe onto the gold nanoparticles
Authors: Li Juanmin , Chen Jian , Chen Yang , Li Yongxin , Shahzad Sohail Anjum , Wang Yan , Yang Meiding , Yu Cong
Published: November 2015

A novel fluorescence turn-on strategy based on Au nanoparticles and a perylene probe for the sensing of Hg2+ ions has been developed.
An electrochemically aminated glassy carbon electrode for simultaneous determination of hydroquinone and catechol
Authors: Wang Xiuyun , Xi Min , Guo Mengmeng , Sheng Fangmeng , Xiao Guang , Wu Shuo , Uchiyama Shunichi , Matsuura Hiroaki
Published: November 2015

A simple strategy based on the easy modification of GCE by pre-electrolyzing it in ammonium carbamate aqueous solution was employed for the simultaneous determination of HQ and CC.
Serum SELDI-TOF MS analysis model applied to benign and malignant ovarian tumor identification
Authors: Li Yankun , Zeng Xiangchao
Published: November 2015

SELDI-TOF MS serum peptide profiles of malignant and benign ovarian tumor samples were studied using a pattern recognition technique.
Multilayer and multichannel membrane filtration for separation and preconcentration of trace analytes and its application in spectral analysis
Authors: Li Wei , Wang Haiting , Jiang Wei , Wang Lei , Zhang Ruoqiu , Li Hui , Wu Ting , Du Yiping
Published: November 2015

A multilayer and multichannel membrane filtration-enrichment method was developed to simultaneously separate and enrich trace analytes in mixture samples.
Large scale preparation of surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy substrates based on silver nanowires for trace chemical detection
Authors: Wang Qiang , Zhao Xingchen , Yu Zhuanni , Tan Ruiqin , Lan Jing
Published: November 2015

Surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) substrates based on silver nanowires can be easily and precisely prepared one time. These SERS substrates presented good uniformity and performance for the detection of crystal violet and 1,2-di(4-pyridyl)ethylene.
Cancer cell-selective killing polymer/copper combination
Authors: He Huacheng , Altomare Diego , Ozer Ufuk , Xu Hanwen , Creek Kim , Chen Hexin , Xu Peisheng
Published: November 2015

A polymer/copper combination selectively kills cancer cells by targeting their high glutathione level, upregulated oncogenes, and downregulated tumor suppressor genes.
A convenient process to fabricate gelatin modified porous PLLA materials with high hydrophilicity and strength
Authors: Yin Guangzhong , Zhao Donglin , Ren Ye , Zhang Lianwei , Zhou Zheng , Li Qifang
Published: November 2015

PLLA porous materials with high porosity were prepared by a gradual precipitation method and further modified by using different concentrations of gelatin aqueous solutions.
Visualization of ion transport in Nafion using electrochemical strain microscopy
Authors: Kim Suran , No Kwangsoo , Hong Seungbum
Published: November 2015

The local strain change resulting from the proton redistribution and relaxation in Nafion could be visualized using electrochemical strain microscopy.
The first organically templated open-framework metal-sulfites with layered and three-dimensional diamondoid structures
Authors: Tiwari Ranjay K. , Kumar Jitendra , Behera J. N.
Published: November 2015

The crystallographic signatures and characterization data of two novel organically templated open-framework zinc-sulfite (NH3CH2CH2NH3)[Zn3(SO3)4], 1 and (CN3H6)2[Zn(SO3)2], 2 are reported for the first time using different amines to generate 2D (for 1) and 3D (for 2) assemblies with 4, 6, 8 and 12-membered rings.
High acetylene/ethylene separation in a microporous zinc(ii) metal–organic framework with low binding energy
Authors: Wen Hui-Min , Li Bin , Wang Hailong , Krishna Rajamani , Chen Banglin
Published: November 2015

A novel MOF UTSA-67a with narrow one-dimensional pore channels and inner cages of moderate size has been developed for highly selective separation of C2H2/C2H4mixtures at room temperature.
Highly sensitive and selective bioluminescence based ozone probes and their applications to detect ambient ozone
Authors: Nam Younseok , Kim Beom Seok , Shin Injae
Published: November 2015

Highly selective and sensitive bioluminescence-based ozone probes were developed and applied to measure ozone concentrations in environmental samples.
Construction of negatively charged and environment-sensitive nanomedicine for tumor-targeted efficient siRNA delivery
Authors: Wang Yong , Xiao Hong , Fang Jing , Yu Xingsu , Su Zhenwei , Cheng Du , Shuai Xintao
Published: November 2015

A siRNA delivery system with pH and reduction dual-sensitivity was developed for efficient target gene silencing in cancer therapy.
Deciphering conformational transitions of proteins by small angle X-ray scattering and normal mode analysis
Authors: Panjkovich Alejandro , Svergun Dmitri I.
Published: November 2015

SREFLEX employs normal mode analysis for the flexible refinement of atomic models of biological macromolecules against solution scattering data, providing insight into conformational transitions.
Unraveling origins of the heterogeneous curvature dependence of polypeptide interactions with carbon nanostructures
Authors: Jana Asis K. , Tiwari Mrityunjay K. , Vanka Kumar , Sengupta Neelanjana
Published: November 2015

Underlying causes of the differential polypeptide interactions on carbon nanosurfaces of varying curvatures emerge from a synchronized computational study.
Classical group theory adapted to the mechanism of Pt3Ni nanoparticle growth: the role of W(CO)6 as the “shape-controlling” agent
Authors: Radtke M. , Ignaszak A.
Published: November 2015

The transition of Pt3Ni cubes into cuboctahedral structures proceeds via epitaxial crystal growth over the metal carbonyl template below the thermal decomposition of W(CO)6.
In situ 2D-extraction of DNA wheels by 3D through-solution transport
Authors: Yonamine Yusuke , Cervantes-Salguero Keitel , Nakanishi Waka , Kawamata Ibuki , Minami Kosuke , Komatsu Hirokazu , Murata Satoshi , Hill Jonathan P. , Ariga Katsuhiko
Published: November 2015

Nanowheel that consist of self-assembly of DNA tiles, first immobilized on hydrophilic surface, traversed to hydrophobic surface by complexation with cationic lipid.
Unexpected multiple activated steps in the excited state decay of some bis(phenylethynyl)-fluorenes and -anthracenes
Authors: Cacioppa G. , Carlotti B. , Elisei F. , Gentili P. L. , Marrocchi A. , Spalletti A.
Published: November 2015

Activated inter-system crossing and internal conversion in the excited state deactivation revealed by the temperature effect on the spectral and photophysical behaviour.
Scalable production of graphene with tunable and stable doping by electrochemical intercalation and exfoliation
Authors: Hsieh Ya-Ping , Chiang Wan-Yu , Tsai Sun-Lin , Hofmann Mario
Published: November 2015

Electrochemical intercalation and exfoliation produces graphene with a finely tunable work function between 4.8 eV and 5.2 eV which enables a threefold increase in the performance of graphene electrodes.
Recent advances of pore system construction in zeolite-catalyzed chemical industry processes
Authors: Shi Jing , Wang Yangdong , Yang Weimin , Tang Yi , Xie Zaiku
Published: November 2015

Recent advances in zeolite-catalyzed industrial processes have been comprehensively reviewed with a careful classification and a detailed theoretical analysis.
Iron-catalysed homo- and copolymerisation of propylene: steric influence of bis(imino)pyridine ligands
Authors: Kawakami Takafumi , Ito Shingo , Nozaki Kyoko
Published: November 2015

A series of iron complexes bearing a bis(imino)pyridine ligand were synthesised and examined as precatalysts for homopolymerisation of propylene and copolymerisation of propylene with allyl monomers.
New Pd(ii) hemichelates devoid of incipient bridging CO⋯Pd interactions
Authors: Werlé Christophe , Anstine Dylan M. , Karmazin Lydia , Bailly Corinne , Ricard Louis , Djukic Jean-Pierre
Published: November 2015

Three novel hemichelates of Pd(ii) resulting from the reaction of indene and hydrophenanthrene-based organometallic anions with three μ-chloro-bridged palladacycles are reported.
N-Heterocyclic olefin stabilized boron dication
Authors: Lee Wan-Hua , Lin Ya-Fan , Lee Gene-Hsiang , Peng Shie-Ming , Chiu Ching-Wen
Published: November 2015

Boron mono- and di-cations featuring a nucleophilic N-heterocyclic olefin and the pentamethylcyclopentadienyl substituent have been prepared and structurally characterized. Experimental and theoretical investigations show that [η5-Cp*B-NHO]2+is considerably more Lewis acidic than [η5-Cp*B-IMes]2+due to the steric congestion imposed by the bent geometry of NHO around the central boron atom.
Zebra reaction or the recipe for the synthesis of heterodimeric zinc complexes
Authors: Jędrzkiewicz D. , Ejfler J. , John Ł. , Szafert S.
Published: November 2015

A series of asymmetric heterodimeric zinc complexes have been synthesized in a direct reaction between conformationally flexible chiral/achiral homodimers.
Unsolvated Al(C6F5)3: structural features and electronic interaction with ferrocene
Authors: Chen Jiawei , Chen Eugene Y.-X.
Published: November 2015

The unsolvated Al(C6F5)3exists as a dimer in the solid stateviadouble Al⋯(ortho-)F bridging and forms a stable adduct with Cp2Fe through η1-coordination.
Characterization of polysaccharide fractions in mulberry fruit and assessment of their antioxidant and hypoglycemic activities in vitro
Authors: Chen Chun , You Li-Jun , Abbasi Arshad Mehmood , Fu Xiong , Liu Rui Hai , Li Chao
Published: November 2015

Mulberry fruit polysaccharide fractions with different structural characteristics showed different antioxidant and hypoglycemic activities.
In vitro and in vivo activity of ML302F: a thioenolate inhibitor of VIM-subfamily metallo β-lactamases
Authors: Betts Jonathan W. , Phee Lynette M. , Abdul Momin Muhd H. F. , Umland Klaus-Daniel , Brem Jurgen , Schofield Christopher J. , Wareham David W.
Published: November 2015

The thioenol ML302F, recently identified as an inhibitor of class B metallo-β-lactamases (MBLs), restores antibiotic susceptibility to meropenem resistant strains in cells and the Galleria mellonella invertebrate model.
Spirooxadiazoline oxindoles with promising in vitro antitumor activities
Authors: Ribeiro Carlos J. A. , Amaral Joana D. , Rodrigues Cecília M. P. , Moreira Rui , Santos Maria M. M.
Published: November 2015

This paper reports the synthesis and biological evaluation of thirty one spirooxadiazoline oxindoles as potential anticancer agents.
Single-crystal field-effect transistors of a highly dipolar merocyanine dye
Authors: Liess Andreas , Stolte Matthias , He Tao , Würthner Frank
Published: November 2015

Single-crystal field-effect transistors of a highly dipolar merocyanine dye reach p-type mobility values of up to 2.34 cm2V−1s−1in air.
Exploiting developments in nanotechnology for the preferential delivery of platinum-based anti-cancer agents to tumours: targeting some of the hallmarks of cancer
Authors: Parker James P. , Ude Ziga , Marmion Celine J.
Published: November 2015

A comprehensive overview showcasing how liposomes, nanocapsules, polymers, dendrimers, nanoparticles and nanotubes may be employed as vehicles to selectively deliver cytotoxic platinum drug payloads to tumour cells.
Facile shape control of nano-coaxial Co3O4/TiO2 arrays and the effect of the microstructure on lithium storage capability
Authors: Qi Tao , Zhang Shichao , Wu Xiaomeng , Xing Yalan , Liu Guanrao , Ren Yanbiao
Published: November 2015

Co3O4/TiO2 nanohybrids fabricated via a layer-by-layer procedure have exhibited excellent electrochemical performance.
Singular supramolecular self-assembling of bis-cyclodextrinyl-bis-lariat hosts with metal bis-aryl-sulfonates as guests
Authors: Dumarçay-Charbonnier Florence , Joly Jean Pierre , Marsura Alain
Published: November 2015

Interlocked [2]rotaxanes were built from bis-cyclodextrinyl-bis lariats (CD-Ls) and bis-aryl sulfonates by a spontaneous dual cation/anion self-assembling process. Original CD-L's have been synthesized in high yield by a one step “click” or Staudinger–Aza-Wittig (SAW) coupling reaction.
V2O5/SBA-15 nanocatalysts for the selective synthesis of 2,3,5-trimethyl-1,4-benzoquinone at room temperature
Authors: Neeli Chinna Krishna Prasad , Ganjala Venkata Siva Prasad , Vakati Venkateswarlu , Rao Kamaraju Seetha Rama , Burri David Raju
Published: November 2015

The molecular designed dispersion method yielded monodispersed nanoscale (4–7.5 nm sized) V2O5dimeric species on SBA-15, which oxidized TMP into TMBQ with H2O2under green conditions.
Nickel and molybdenum containing mesoporous catalysts for ethylene oligomerization and metathesis
Authors: Andrei Radu Dorin , Popa Marcel Ionel , Cammarano Claudia , Hulea Vasile
Published: November 2015

Ethylene is converted into propylene by one-pot cascade reactions over catalysts prepared using a commercial mesoporous non-ordered silica as a support.
d-Penicillamine and bovine serum albumin co-stabilized copper nanoclusters with remarkably enhanced fluorescence intensity and photostability for ultrasensitive detection of Ag+
Authors: Ruiyi Li , Huiying Wang , Xiaoyan Zhou , Xiaoqing Liao , Xiulan Sun , Zaijun Li
Published: November 2015

This study reports the synthesis of d-penicillamine and bovine serum albumin co-stabilized copper nanoclusters. The nanoclusters show high fluorescence intensity, stability and response towards silver ion.
Tungstosulfonic acid as an efficient solid acid catalyst for acylal synthesis for the protection of the aldehydic carbonyl group
Authors: Kalla Reddi Mohan Naidu , Kim Mi Ri , Kim Yu Na , Kim Il
Published: November 2015

Aldehydic carbonyl groups are eco-friendly protected by acetic anhydride using the tungstosulfonic acid catalyst and the deprotection is successful under the similar conditions in the presence of water.
Metal induced self-assembly of designed V-shape protein into 2D wavy supramolecular nanostructure
Authors: Qiao S. P. , Lang C. , Wang R. D. , Li X. M. , Yan T. F. , Pan T. Z. , Zhao L. L. , Fan X. T. , Zhang X. , Hou C. X. , Luo Q. , Xu J. Y. , Liu J. Q.
Published: November 2015

Utilizing V shape proteins, we construct 1D, 2D complicated nanostructures through metal coordination. This provides an approach for designing protein assemblies with distinctive topological morphology.
Determining the 3D orientation of optically trapped upconverting nanorods by in situ single-particle polarized spectroscopy
Authors: Rodríguez-Sevilla Paloma , Labrador-Páez Lucía , Wawrzyńczyk Dominika , Nyk Marcin , Samoć Marek , Kar Ajoy Kumar , Mackenzie Mark D. , Paterson Lynn , Jaque Daniel , Haro-González Patricia
Published: November 2015

Single-particle polarized spectroscopy reveals the spatial orientation of single NaYF4:Er3+,Yb3+ upconverting nanorods inside single- and multiple-beam optical tweezers.
Inkjet-printed all solid-state electrochromic devices based on NiO/WO3 nanoparticle complementary electrodes
Authors: Cai Guofa , Darmawan Peter , Cui Mengqi , Chen Jingwei , Wang Xu , Eh Alice Lee-Sie , Magdassi Shlomo , Lee Pooi See
Published: November 2015

An all solid-state complementary electrochromic device with large optical modulation was assembled by inkjet-printed NiO and WO3 electrodes.
New electron-donor and -acceptor architectures from benzofurazans and sym-triaminobenzenes: intermediates, products and an unusual nitro group shift
Authors: Micheletti G. , Boga C. , Pafundi M. , Pollicino S. , Zanna N.
Published: November 2015

Coupling reaction between aromatic electrophiles and nucleophiles: intermediates, products and an unusual nitro group shift.
Accelerated cellular on- and off-target screening of bioactive compounds using microarrays
Authors: Fu Jiaqi , Na Zhenkun , Peng Bo , Uttamchandani Mahesh , Yao Shao Q.
Published: November 2015

In situ target screening of bioactive compounds using microarrays.
N-Heterocyclic carbene-catalyzed [4 + 2] annulation of α,β-unsaturated carboxylic acids: enantioselective synthesis of dihydropyridinones and spirocyclic oxindolodihydropyridinones
Authors: Jia Wen-Qiang , Zhang Han-Ming , Zhang Chun-Lin , Gao Zhong-Hua , Ye Song
Published: November 2015

The N-heterocyclic carbene-catalyzed [4 + 2] annulation of α,β-unsaturated carboxylic acid with hydrazones and isatin-derived imines was developed, affording the corresponding dihydropyridinones, respectively, in good yields with high enantioselectivities.
Synthesis of MCF-supported AuCo nanoparticle catalysts and the catalytic performance for the CO oxidation reaction
Authors: Li Lin , Chai Song-Hai , Binder Andrew , Brown Suree , Yang Shi-Ze , Dai Sheng
Published: November 2015

AuCo/MCF calcined at 500 °C for 1 h was found to produce the most active and stable catalyst for CO oxidation. In situ FTIR results of AuCo/MCF catalysts with different treatments.
Supramolecular three-component amino acid-based hydrogels with superior mechanical strength for controllably promoting nonpathogenic E. coli growth
Authors: Li Yibao , Cheng Linxiu , Liu Chunhua , Liu Wei , Zhu Lei , Fan Yulan , Wu Yongquan , Li Xun , Zeng Qingdao , Fan Xiaolin
Published: November 2015

Novel three-component hybrid hydrogels have been constructed by amino acid derivatives, riboflavin and melamine through self-assembly, which demonstrate excellent mechanical strength (>104 Pa) and low cell toxicity.
A smart magnetic nanosystem with controllable drug release and hyperthermia for potential cancer therapy
Authors: Xu Yi , Zhu Yufang , Kaskel Stefan
Published: November 2015

A smart therapeutic platform with potential controllable drug release and magnetic hyperthermia was constructed through the conjugation of carboxyl-modified DNA onto aminated magnetic mesoporous silica nanoparticles.