bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Comet Assay: Automated Imaging Methods for Improved Analysis and Reproducibility
Authors: Braafladt Signe , Reipa Vytas , Atha Donald H.
Published: September 2016

Sources of variability in the comet assay include variations in the protocol used to process the cells, the microscope imaging system and the software used in the computerized analysis of the images. Here we focus on the effect of variations in the microscope imaging system and software analysis using fixed preparations of cells and a single cell processing protocol. To determine the effect of the microscope imaging and analysis on the measured percentage of damaged DNA (% DNA in tail), we used preparations of mammalian cells treated with etoposide or electrochemically induced DNA damage conditions and varied the settings of the automated microscope, camera and commercial image analysis software. Manual image analysis revealed measurement variations in percent DNA in tail as high as 40% due to microscope focus, camera exposure time and the software image intensity threshold level. Automated image analysis reduced these variations as much as three-fold, but only within a narrow range of focus and exposure settings. The magnitude of variation, observed using both analysis methods, was highly dependent on the overall extent of DNA damage in the particular sample. Mitigating these sources of variability with optimal instrument settings facilitates an accurate evaluation of cell biological variability.
Unveiling the molecular mechanism of self-healing in a telechelic, supramolecular polymer network
Authors: Yan Tingzi , Schröter Klaus , Herbst Florian , Binder Wolfgang H. , Thurn-Albrecht Thomas
Published: September 2016

Reversible polymeric networks can show self-healing properties due to their ability to reassemble after application of stress and fracture, but typically the relation between equilibrium molecular dynamics and self-healing kinetics has been difficult to disentangle. Here we present a well-characterized, self-assembled bulk network based on supramolecular assemblies, that allows a clear distinction between chain dynamics and network relaxation. Small angle x-ray scattering and rheological measurements provide evidence for a structurally well-defined, dense network of interconnected aggregates giving mechanical strength to the material. Different from a covalent network, the dynamic character of the supramolecular bonds enables macroscopic flow on a longer time scale and the establishment of an equilibrium structure. A combination of linear and nonlinear rheological measurements clearly identifies the terminal relaxation process as being responsible for the process of self-healing.
Non-Volatile Ferroelectric Switching of Ferromagnetic Resonance in NiFe/PLZT Multiferroic Thin Film Heterostructures
Authors: Hu Zhongqiang , Wang Xinjun , Nan Tianxiang , Zhou Ziyao , Ma Beihai , Chen Xiaoqin , Jones John G. , Howe Brandon M. , Brown Gail J. , Gao Yuan , Lin Hwaider , Wang Zhiguang , Guo Rongdi , Chen Shuiyuan , Shi Xiaoling , Shi Wei , Sun Hongzhi , Budil David , Liu Ming , Sun Nian X.
Published: September 2016

Magnetoelectric effect, arising from the interfacial coupling between magnetic and electrical order parameters, has recently emerged as a robust means to electrically manipulate the magnetic properties in multiferroic heterostructures. Challenge remains as finding an energy efficient way to modify the distinct magnetic states in a reliable, reversible and non-volatile manner. Here we report ferroelectric switching of ferromagnetic resonance in multiferroic bilayers consisting of ultrathin ferromagnetic NiFe and ferroelectric Pb0.92La0.08Zr0.52Ti0.48O3 (PLZT) films, where the magnetic anisotropy of NiFe can be electrically modified by low voltages. Ferromagnetic resonance measurements confirm that the interfacial charge-mediated magnetoelectric effect is dominant in NiFe/PLZT heterostructures. Non-volatile modification of ferromagnetic resonance field is demonstrated by applying voltage pulses. The ferroelectric switching of magnetic anisotropy exhibits extensive applications in energy-efficient electronic devices such as magnetoelectric random access memories, magnetic field sensors and tunable radio frequency (RF)/microwave devices.
Impact of Simulated Microgravity on Cytoskeleton and Viscoelastic Properties of Endothelial Cell
Authors: Janmaleki M. , Pachenari M. , Seyedpour S. M. , Shahghadami R. , Sanati-Nezhad A.
Published: September 2016

This study focused on the effects of simulated microgravity (s-μg) on mechanical properties, major cytoskeleton biopolymers, and morphology of endothelial cells (ECs). The structural and functional integrity of ECs are vital to regulate vascular homeostasis and prevent atherosclerosis. Furthermore, these highly gravity sensitive cells play a key role in pathogenesis of many diseases. In this research, impacts of s-μg on mechanical behavior of human umbilical vein endothelial cells were investigated by utilizing a three-dimensional random positioning machine (3D-RPM). Results revealed a considerable drop in cell stiffness and viscosity after 24 hrs of being subjected to weightlessness. Cortical rigidity experienced relatively immediate and significant decline comparing to the stiffness of whole cell body. The cells became rounded in morphology while western blot analysis showed reduction of the main cytoskeletal components. Moreover, fluorescence staining confirmed disorganization of both actin filaments and microtubules (MTs). The results were compared statistically among test and control groups and it was concluded that s-μg led to a significant alteration in mechanical behavior of ECs due to remodeling of cell cytoskeleton.
Co-expression of LASS2 and TGF-β1 predicts poor prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Ruan Haoyu , Wang Ting , Yang Chen , Jin Guangzhi , Gu Dishui , Deng Xuan , Wang Cun , Qin Wenxin , Jin Haojie
Published: September 2016

Longevity assurance homolog 2 of yeast LAG1 (LASS2) has been reported to act as an important tumor suppressor in the development of human cancers. However, little is known about the prognostic value of LASS2 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) . In the present study, we analyzed correlation between LASS2 and TGF-β1 levels, and evaluated their prognostic values in HCC patients. We first analyzed the expression of LASS2 and TGF-β1 in two independent cohorts (test cohort: 184 HCC patients; validation cohort: 118 HCC patients) using immunohistochemistry (IHC). Kaplan-Meier survival and Cox regression analyses were executed to evaluate the prognosis of HCC. The results of IHC analysis revealed a positive correlation between the expression of LASS2 and TGF-β1. HCC Patients with low expression of LASS2 and TGF-β1 had shorter overall survival (OS) and time to recurrence (TTR) than patients with high expression of LASS2 and TGF-β1. Furthermore, combination of LASS2 and TGF-β1 was an independent and significant risk factor for OS and TTR. In conclusion, low expression of LASS2 and TGF-β1 contributes to the aggressiveness and poor prognosis of HCC, and may represent a novel prognostic biomarker for HCC patients.
Longitudinal in vivo MRI in a Huntington’s disease mouse model: Global atrophy in the absence of white matter microstructural damage
Authors: Steventon Jessica J. , Trueman Rebecca C. , Ma Da , Yhnell Emma , Bayram-Weston Zubeyde , Modat Marc , Cardoso Jorge , Ourselin Sebastian , Lythgoe Mark , Stewart Andrew , Rosser Anne E. , Jones Derek K.
Published: September 2016

Huntington’s disease (HD) is a genetically-determined neurodegenerative disease. Characterising neuropathology in mouse models of HD is commonly restricted to cross-sectional ex vivo analyses, beset by tissue fixation issues. In vivo longitudinal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allows for disease progression to be probed non-invasively. In the HdhQ150 mouse model of HD, in vivo MRI was employed at two time points, before and after the onset of motor signs, to assess brain macrostructure and white matter microstructure. Ex vivo MRI, immunohistochemistry, transmission electron microscopy and behavioural testing were also conducted. Global brain atrophy was found in HdhQ150 mice at both time points, with no neuropathological progression across time and a selective sparing of the cerebellum. In contrast, no white matter abnormalities were detected from the MRI images or electron microscopy images alike. The relationship between motor function and MR-based structural measurements was different for the HdhQ150 and wild-type mice, although there was no relationship between motor deficits and histopathology. Widespread neuropathology prior to symptom onset is consistent with patient studies, whereas the absence of white matter abnormalities conflicts with patient data. The myriad reasons for this inconsistency require further attention to improve the translatability from mouse models of disease.
Location and Visualization of Working p-n and/or n-p Junctions by XPS
Authors: Copuroglu Mehmet , Caliskan Deniz , Sezen Hikmet , Ozbay Ekmel , Suzer Sefik
Published: September 2016

X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) is used to follow some of the electrical properties of a segmented silicon photodetector, fabricated in a p-n-p configuration, during operation under various biasing configurations. Mapping of the binding energy position of Si2p reveals the shift in the position of the junctions with respect to the polarity of the DC bias applied. Use of squared and triangular shaped wave excitations, while recording XPS data, allows tapping different electrical properties of the device under normal operational conditions, as well as after exposing parts of it to harsh physical and chemical treatments. Unique and chemically specific electrical information can be gained with this noninvasive approach which can be useful especially for localized device characterization and failure analyses.
FolR1: a novel cell surface marker for isolating midbrain dopamine neural progenitors and nascent dopamine neurons
Authors: Gennet Nicole , Tamburini Claudia , Nan Xinsheng , Li Meng
Published: September 2016

Cell type-specific surface markers offer a powerful tool for purifying defined cell types for restorative therapies and drug screenings. Midbrain dopaminergic neurons (mesDA) are the nerve cells preferentially lost in the brains of Parkinson’s disease patients. Clinical trials of transplantation of fetal neural precursors suggest that cell therapy may offer a cure for this devastating neurological disease. Many lines of preclinical studies demonstrate that neural progenitors committed to dopaminergic fate survive and integrate better than postmitotic DA neurons. We show that the folate-receptor 1 (FolR1), a GPI-anchored cell surface molecule, specifically marks mesDA neural progenitors and immature mesDA neurons. FolR1 expression superimposes with Lmx1a, a bona-fide mesDA lineage marker, during the active phase of mesDA neurogenesis from E9.5 to E14.5 during mouse development, as well as in ESC-derived mesDA lineage. FolR1+ neural progenitors can be isolated by FACS or magnetic sorting (MAC) which give rise to dopamine neurons expressing TH and Pitx3, whilst FolR1 negative cells generate non-dopaminergic neurons and glia cells. This study identifies FolR1 as a new cell surface marker selectively expressed in mesDA progenitors in vivo and in vitro and that can be used to enrich in vitro differentiated TH neurons.
The Na+/Ca2+, K+ exchanger 2 modulates mammalian cone phototransduction
Authors: Sakurai Keisuke , Vinberg Frans , Wang Tian , Chen Jeannie , Kefalov Vladimir J.
Published: September 2016

Calcium ions (Ca2+) modulate the phototransduction cascade of vertebrate cone photoreceptors to tune gain, inactivation, and light adaptation. In darkness, the continuous current entering the cone outer segment through cGMP-gated (CNG) channels is carried in part by Ca2+, which is then extruded back to the extracellular space. The mechanism of Ca2+extrusion from mammalian cones is not understood. The dominant view has been that the cone-specific isoform of the Na+/Ca2+, K+exchanger, NCKX2, is responsible for removing Ca2+from their outer segments. However, indirect evaluation of cone function in NCKX2-deficient (Nckx2−/−) mice by electroretinogram recordings revealed normal photopic b-wave responses. This unexpected result suggested that NCKX2 may not be involved in the Ca2+homeostasis of mammalian cones. To address this controversy, we examined the expression of NCKX2 in mouse cones and performed transretinal recordings fromNckx2−/−mice to determine the effect of NCKX2 deletion on cone function directly. We found thatNckx2−/−cones exhibit compromised phototransduction inactivation, slower response recovery and delayed background adaptation. We conclude that NCKX2 is required for the maintenance of efficient Ca2+extrusion from mouse cones. However, surprisingly,Nckx2−/−cones adapted normally in steady background light, indicating the existence of additional Ca2+-extruding mechanisms in mammalian cones.
Describing synchronization and topological excitations in arrays of magnetic spin torque oscillators through the Kuramoto model
Authors: Flovik Vegard , Macià Ferran , Wahlström Erik
Published: September 2016

The collective dynamics in populations of magnetic spin torque oscillators (STO) is an intensely studied topic in modern magnetism. Here, we show that arrays of STO coupled via dipolar fields can be modeled using a variant of the Kuramoto model, a well-known mathematical model in non-linear dynamics. By investigating the collective dynamics in arrays of STO we find that the synchronization in such systems is a finite size effect and show that the critical coupling—for a complete synchronized state—scales with the number of oscillators. Using realistic values of the dipolar coupling strength between STO we show that this imposes an upper limit for the maximum number of oscillators that can be synchronized. Further, we show that the lack of long range order is associated with the formation of topological defects in the phase field similar to the two-dimensional XY model of ferromagnetism. Our results shed new light on the synchronization of STO, where controlling the mutual synchronization of several oscillators is considered crucial for applications.
A role of CB1R in inducing θ-rhythm coordination between the gustatory and gastrointestinal insula
Authors: Kang Youngnam , Sato Hajime , Saito Mitsuru , Yin Dong Xu , Park Sook Kyung , Oh Seog Bae , Bae Yong Chul , Toyoda Hiroki
Published: September 2016

Anandamide (AEA) and N-oleoylethanolamine (OEA) are produced in the intestine and brain during fasting and satiety, respectively. Subsequently, AEA facilitates food intake via activation of cannabinoid type-1 receptors (CB1Rs) while OEA decreases food intake via activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α (PPARα) and/or G-protein-coupled receptor 119 (GPR119). Neuronal activity in the gastrointestinal region of the autonomic insula (GI-Au-I) that rostrally adjoins the gustatory insula (Gu-I) increases during fasting, enhancing appetite while umami and sweet taste sensations in Gu-I enhances appetite in GI-Au-I, strongly suggesting the presence of a neural interaction between the Gu-I and GI-Au-I which changes depending on the concentrations of AEA and OEA. However, this possibility has never been investigated. In rat slice preparations, we demonstrate with voltage-sensitive dye imaging that activation of CB1Rs by AEA induces θ-rhythm oscillatory synchronization in the Gu-I which propagates into the GI-Au-I but stops at its caudal end, displaying an oscillatory coordination. The AEA-induced oscillation was abolished by a CB1R antagonist or OEA through activation of GPR119. Our results demonstrate that the neural coordination between the Gu-I and GI-Au-I is generated or suppressed by the opposing activities between CB1R and GPR119. This mechanism may be involved in the feeding behavior based on taste recognition.
Purple foliage coloration in tea (Camellia sinensis L.) arises from activation of the R2R3-MYB transcription factor CsAN1
Authors: Sun Binmei , Zhu Zhangsheng , Cao Panrong , Chen Hao , Chen Changming , Zhou Xin , Mao Yanhui , Lei Jianjun , Jiang Yanpin , Meng Wei , Wang Yingxi , Liu Shaoqun
Published: September 2016

Purple foliage always appears in Camellia sinensis families; however, the transcriptional regulation of anthocyanin biosynthesis is unknown. The tea bud sport cultivar ‘Zijuan’ confers an abnormal pattern of anthocyanin accumulation, resulting in a mutant phenotype that has a striking purple color in young foliage and in the stem. In this study, we aimed to unravel the underlying molecular mechanism of anthocyanin biosynthetic regulation in C. sinensis. Our results revealed that activation of the R2R3-MYB transcription factor (TF) anthocyanin1 (CsAN1) specifically upregulated the bHLH TF CsGL3 and anthocyanin late biosynthetic genes (LBGs) to confer ectopic accumulation of pigment in purple tea. We found CsAN1 interacts with bHLH TFs (CsGL3 and CsEGL3) and recruits a WD-repeat protein CsTTG1 to form the MYB-bHLH-WDR (MBW) complex that regulates anthocyanin accumulation. We determined that the hypomethylation of a CpG island in the CsAN1 promoter is associated with the purple phenotype. Furthermore, we demonstrated that low temperature and long illumination induced CsAN1 promoter demethylation, resulting in upregulated expression to promote anthocyanin accumulation in the foliage. The successful isolation of CsAN1 provides important information on the regulatory control of anthocyanin biosynthesis in C. sinensis and offers a genetic resource for the development of new varieties with enhanced anthocyanin content.
Network analysis reveals common host protein/s modulating pathogenesis of neurotropic viruses
Authors: Ghosh Sourish , Mukherjee Sriparna , Sengupta Nabonita , Roy Arunava , Dey Dhritiman , Chakraborty Surajit , Chattopadhyay Dhrubajyoti , Banerjee Arpan , Basu Anirban
Published: September 2016

Network analysis through graph theory provides a quantitative approach to characterize specific proteins and their constituent assemblies that underlie host-pathogen interactions. In the present study, graph theory was used to analyze the interactome designed out of 50 differentially expressing proteins from proteomic analysis of Chandipura Virus (CHPV, Family: Rhabdoviridae) infected mouse brain tissue to identify the primary candidates for intervention. Using the measure of degree centrality, that quantifies the connectedness of a single protein within a milieu of several other interacting proteins, DJ-1 was selected for further molecular validation. To elucidate the generality of DJ-1’s role in propagating infection its role was also monitored in another RNA virus, Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV, Family: Flaviviridae) infection. Concurrently, DJ-1 got over-expressed in response to reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation following viral infection which in the early phase of infection migrated to mitochondria to remove dysfunctional mitochondria through the process of mitophagy. DJ-1 was also observed to modulate the viral replication and interferon responses along with low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor expression in neurons. Collectively these evidences reveal a comprehensive role for DJ-1 in neurotropic virus infection in the brain.
One-pot synthesis of (−)-Ambrox
Authors: Yang Shaoxiang , Tian Hongyu , Sun Baoguo , Liu Yongguo , Hao Yanfeng , Lv Yanyu
Published: September 2016

(−)-Ambrox is recognised as the prototype of all ambergris odorants. Widely used in perfumery, (−)-Ambrox is an important ingredient due to its unique scent and excellent fixative function. An environmentally friendly and practical preparation of (−)-Ambrox is still unavailable at present although a lot of attention has been paid to this hot research topic for many years. A one-pot synthesis of (−)-Ambrox was studied starting from (−)-sclareol through oxidation with hydrogen peroxide in the presence of a quaternary ammonium phosphomolybdate catalyst {[C5H5NC16H33] [H2PMo12O40]}, which gave the product a 20% overall yield.
Acute trauma induced disc displacement without reduction and its sequelae
Authors: He DongMei , Yang XiuJuan , Wang FeiYu , Yang Chi , Dong MinJun
Published: September 2016

Acute traumatic temporomandibular joint disc displacement (ATDD) and its sequelae are not familiar for most surgeons. This study is to discuss its sequelae in cases without disc reduction after failed conservative treatment. From 2010 to 2015, 26 patients with 34 joints were included in the study. All patients had at least 3 months conservative treatment. Their maximal incisor opening (MIO) was measured during follow-ups and MRI examination was used to check the condylar bone degeneration. The mean follow-up for conservative treatment after admission was 8.69 months, the patients reached an average of 25.7 mm MIO. MRI showed condylar bone intact in 8 joints (23.5%), condylar surface bone destruction (Wilks IV, V stages) in 14 joints (41.2%), and severe bone resorption in 12 joints (35.3%). 15 patients with 23 joints were asked for surgical treatment after a mean conservative treatment of 5.4 months (3–12 months) to improve mouth opening and relieve chronic pain. 12 joints had total joint replacement (TJR). 11 joints had disc repositioning. Their mean MIO before operation was 19.8 mm and significantly improved to 33.9 mm after operation (p = 0.0000). ATDD may cause severe osteoarthritis or ankylosis. Disc repositioning and TJR could significantly improve MIO.
Fiber enhanced Raman spectroscopic analysis as a novel method for diagnosis and monitoring of diseases related to hyperbilirubinemia and hyperbiliverdinemia
Authors: Yan Di , Domes Christian , Domes Robert , Frosch Timea , Popp Jürgen , Pletz Mathias W. , Frosch Torsten
Published: September 2016

Fiber enhanced resonance Raman spectroscopy (FERS) is introduced for chemically selective and ultrasensitive analysis of the biomolecules hematin, hemoglobin, biliverdin, and bilirubin, as well as intact red blood cells.
A handheld orbital mixer for processing viscous samples in low resource settings
Authors: Scherr Thomas F. , Ryskoski Hayley B. , Sivakumar Adithya , Ricks Keersten M. , Adams Nicholas M. , Wright David W. , Haselton Frederick R.
Published: September 2016

Clinical diagnostics play an important role in infectious disease monitoring. In this report, we characterize the efficacy of a handheld therapeutic massager that has been repurposed into a mixer.
Complete furanics–sugar separations with metal–organic framework NU-1000
Authors: Yabushita Mizuho , Li Peng , Kobayashi Hirokazu , Fukuoka Atsushi , Farha Omar K. , Katz Alexander
Published: September 2016

Metal–organic framework NU-1000 exhibits complete selectivity in separating furanics from an aqueous mixture that also contains excess sugars that the furanics are derived from.
Water-based synthesis and characterisation of a new Zr-MOF with a unique inorganic building unit
Authors: Waitschat S. , Reinsch H. , Stock N.
Published: September 2016

A new inorganic building unit in a Zr-MOF is formed through bridging of the well-known {Zr6O4(OH)4} clusters by (μ-OH) groups.
Ultra-weak interlayer coupling in two-dimensional gallium selenide
Authors: Longuinhos R. , Ribeiro-Soares J.
Published: September 2016

By using symmetry arguments and first principles calculations, we study the stability of β and ε few-layer GaSe and their low-frequency interlayer breathing and shear modes, unveiling uncommon lubricant properties and exfoliability at the nanoscale.
Investigation on the conversion of ethylene to ethylidyne on Pt(100) and Pd(100) using density functional theory
Authors: Wang Yuchun , Dong Xiuqin , Yu Yingzhe , Zhang Minhua
Published: September 2016

The comprehensive reaction networks from ethylene to ethylidyne on Pt(100) and Pd(100) were investigated using DFT.
Constructing B and N separately co-doped carbon nanocapsules-wrapped Fe/Fe3C for oxygen reduction reaction with high current density
Authors: Feng He , Wang Lei , Zhao Lu , Tian Chungui , Yu Peng , Fu Honggang
Published: September 2016

The exploration of low-cost and highly efficient non-platinum electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is vital for renewable systems.
Probing the low-energy structures of aluminum–magnesium alloy clusters: a detailed study
Authors: Xing Xiaodong , Wang Jingjing , Kuang Xiaoyu , Xia Xinxin , Lu Cheng , Maroulis George
Published: September 2016

The effect of Mg doping on the growth behavior and the electronic properties of aluminum clusters has been investigated theoretically using the CALYPSO (Crystal structure AnaLYsis by Particle Swarm Optimization) method in combination with density functional theory calculations.
Fabrication of RGD-conjugated Gd(OH)3:Eu nanorods with enhancement of magnetic resonance, luminescence imaging and in vivo tumor targeting
Authors: Cai Bianyun , Huang Zhongbing , Wu Zhi , Wang Lei , Yin Guangfu , Gao Fabao
Published: September 2016

RGD-linked Gd(OH)3:Eu NRs with long blood circulation time were fabricated via a hydrothermal method, PEGylation and thiolation conjugation, and these NRs could enhance in vivo MR and luminescence imagings of gliomas by a good targeting of gliomas.
Geometric isomerism in coordination cages based on tris-chelate vertices: a tool to control both assembly and host/guest chemistry
Authors: Metherell Alexander J. , Ward Michael D.
Published: September 2016

The presence of both fac and mer tris-chelate units as coordination cage vertices allows control of both cage assembly and guest binding properties.
Selective monomethyl esterification of linear dicarboxylic acids with bifunctional alumina catalysts
Authors: Santacroce Veronica , Bigi Franca , Casnati Alessandra , Maggi Raimondo , Storaro Loretta , Moretti Elisa , Vaccaro Luigi , Maestri Giovanni
Published: September 2016

An environmentally friendly protocol for the selective protection of dicarboxylic acids is reported using methanol as a cheap esterifying agent and alumina as a heterogeneous catalyst.
Renewability – a principle of utmost importance!
Authors: Llevot Audrey , Meier Michael A. R.
Published: September 2016

Editorial highlighting the importance of renewability in green chemistry.
Conductive polymers for next-generation energy storage systems: recent progress and new functions
Authors: Kim Jeonghun , Lee Jaewoo , You Jungmok , Park Min-Sik , Hossain Md Shahriar Al , Yamauchi Yusuke , Kim Jung Ho
Published: September 2016

This review summarizes the synthesis of conductive polymers with different chemical structures in various ways and also addresses their widespread recent development for energy storage system applications.
(Cu/NCNTs): a new high temperature technique to prepare a recyclable nanocatalyst for four component pyridine derivative synthesis and nitroarenes reduction
Authors: Kour Gurpreet , Gupta Monika , Vishwanathan B. , Thirunavukkarasu K.
Published: September 2016

N-Doping has been successfully achieved using a new and simple high temperature furnace heating technique to synthesize a Cu/NCNTs nanocatalyst.
Boron and nitrogen co-doped carbon dots as a metal-free catalyst for hydrogen generation from sodium borohydride
Authors: Nabid Mohammad Reza , Bide Yasamin , Fereidouni Nazanin
Published: September 2016

The high catalytic activity of B,N co-doped CDs is due to the synergistic effect of nitrogen and boron dopants and the intrinsic properties of carbon dots.
Correction: Pd complex of an NNN pincer ligand supported on γ-Fe2O3@SiO2 magnetic nanoparticles: a new catalyst for Heck, Suzuki and Sonogashira coupling reactions
Authors: Sobhani Sara , Zeraatkar Zohre , Zarifi Farzaneh
Published: September 2016

Correction for ‘Pd complex of an NNN pincer ligand supported on γ-Fe2O3@SiO2 magnetic nanoparticles: a new catalyst for Heck, Suzuki and Sonogashira coupling reactions’ by Sara Sobhani et al., New J. Chem., 2015, 39, 7076–7085.
Electron beam directed etching of hexagonal boron nitride
Authors: Elbadawi Christopher , Tran Trong Toan , Kolíbal Miroslav , Šikola Tomáš , Scott John , Cai Qiran , Li Lu Hua , Taniguchi Takashi , Watanabe Kenji , Toth Milos , Aharonovich Igor , Lobo Charlene
Published: September 2016

High resolution directed electron beam etching of hBN using water as the precursor gas.
A ThDP-dependent enzymatic carboligation reaction involved in Neocarazostatin A tricyclic carbazole formation
Authors: Su Li , Lv Meinan , Kyeremeh Kwaku , Deng Zixin , Deng Hai , Yu Yi
Published: September 2016

The ThDP-dependent enzyme NzsH catalyzes an acyloin condensation reaction using indole-3-pyruvate as the acyl acceptor in the biosynthesis of Neocarazostatin A.
Protein storage with perfluorinated PEG compartments in a hydrofluorocarbon solvent
Authors: Koda Yuta , Terashima Takaya , Maynard Heather D. , Sawamoto Mitsuo
Published: September 2016

We report a novel storage technology of proteins with surface-perfluorinated poly(ethylene glycol) compartments in 2H,3H-perfluoropentane.
Dissociative adsorption of O2 on negatively charged nitrogen-doped single-walled carbon nanotubes: first-principles calculations
Authors: Srivastava Divya , Laasonen Kari
Published: September 2016

Spin unrestricted DFT calculations have been used to study the molecular and dissociative adsorption of O2 on achiral substitutional nitrogen-doped single-walled carbon nanotubes with and without additional charges.
Transport properties and entropy-scaling laws for diffusion coefficients in liquid Fe0.9Ni0.1 up to 350 GPa
Authors: Cao Qi-Long , Wang Pan-Pan , Shao Ju-Xiang , Wang Fan-Hou
Published: September 2016

Transport properties and entropy-scaling laws for diffusion coefficients in liquid Fe0.9Ni0.1 alloy under high pressure conditions have been studied by molecular dynamics simulations based upon the Quantum Sutton and Chen potential.
Synthesis of new fused heterocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons via C–S and C–C bond formation by C–H bond activation in the presence of new Pd(ii) Schiff's base complexes
Authors: Pola Someshwar , Bhongiri Yadagiri , Jadhav Ramchander , Ch Prabhakar , G. Venkanna
Published: September 2016

Pd(ii) Schiff base macrocyclic complexes are used as photocatalysts with high stability, C–S bond and intramolecular C–H bond activation under visible light irradiation.
Homogeneous sulphur-doped composites: porous carbon materials with unique hierarchical porous nanostructure for super-capacitor application
Authors: Zhang Jie , Yang Zhanxu , Wang Xiaorong , Ren Tieqiang , Qiao Qingdong
Published: September 2016

Homogeneous sulphur-doped porous carbon materials with a unique hierarchical porous nanostructure have been prepared by the combination of the two-dimensional interlayer confinement effect of a layered double hydroxide (LDH) and KOH activation method.
White light emission by controlled mixing of carbon dots and rhodamine B for applications in optical thermometry and selective Fe3+detection
Authors: Mandani Sonam , Sharma Bhagwati , Dey Deepa , Sarma Tridib K.
Published: September 2016

Controlled mixing of rhodamine B with fluorescent carbon dots derived from β-carotene resulted in a white light emitting mixture that could be used for optical thermometry and Fe3+ion detection in water.
Self-encapsulation of a drug-containing ionic liquid into mesoporous silica monoliths or nanoparticles by a sol–gel process
Authors: Brevet David , Jouannin Claire , Tourné-Péteilh Corine , Devoisselle Jean-Marie , Vioux André , Viau Lydie
Published: September 2016

Mesoporous silica monoliths and nanospheres were obtained using the same ionic liquid acting as a templating agent and catalyst.
Computationally designed tandem direct selective oxidation using molecular oxygen as oxidant without coreductant
Authors: Yang Bo , Manz Thomas A.
Published: September 2016

A newly designed two-step selective oxidation process was computationally tested for propene epoxidation using molecular oxygen as oxidant without co-reductant.
Photoconductivities in m-plane and c-plane ZnO epitaxial films grown by chemical vapor deposition on LiGaO2 substrates: a comparative study
Authors: Lin C. H. , Chen R. S. , Lin Y. K. , Wang S. B. , Chen L. C. , Chen K. H. , Wen M. C. , Chou M. M. C. , Chang L.
Published: September 2016

Nonpolar (m-plane) and polar (c-plane) ZnO epitaxial films grown by CVD exhibit superior photoconductive performance in different aspects.
Photodegradation performance and recyclability of a porous nitrogen and carbon co-doped TiO2/activated carbon composite prepared by an extremely fast one-step microwave method
Authors: Zhou Jiangshan , Li Fangzhou , Du Chun , Liu Junming , Wang Yinzhen , Li Wei , He Guannan , He Qinyu
Published: September 2016

Porous (C,N)-TiO2/AC) composite bulk was prepared by a fast one-step microwave irradiation. It has very good photocatalytic properties and recyclability.
Mechanistic study of visible light driven photocatalytic degradation of EDC 17α-ethinyl estradiol and azo dye Acid Black-52: phytotoxicity assessment of intermediates
Authors: Naraginti Saraschandra , Li Yi , Wu Yunbo , Zhang Chi , Upreti Akhanda Raj
Published: September 2016

The present study evaluated the phytotoxicity of degraded intermediates of an endocrine-disrupting compound (EDC) 17α-ethinyl estradiol (EE2) and toxic azo dye Acid Black-52 (AB-52) in photocatalytic degradation.
CdS–CdTe heterojunction nanotube arrays for efficient solar energy conversion
Authors: Liyanage W. P. R. , Nath M.
Published: September 2016

CdS–CdTe heterojunction nanotube arrays grown by confined electrodeposition on lithographically defined nanoelectrodes shows higher photoconversion efficiency than nanorod arrays and bulk film.
Thin film nanocomposite: the next generation selective membrane for CO2 removal
Authors: Wong K. C. , Goh P. S. , Ismail A. F.
Published: September 2016

Thin film nanocomposite as a highly tunable and scalable CO2 separation solution for sustainable future.
Vanadium-free colusites Cu26A2Sn6S32(A = Nb, Ta) for environmentally friendly thermoelectrics
Authors: Kikuchi Yuta , Bouyrie Yohan , Ohta Michihiro , Suekuni Koichiro , Aihara Makoto , Takabatake Toshiro
Published: September 2016

We have successfully developed environmentally-friendly and cost-effective thermoelectric materials based on colusites Cu26A2Sn6S32(A = Nb, Ta). The vanadium-free colusites show enhanced thermoelectric figure of meritZTat high temperature.
Advantages of anchoring growth factors to materials for neural stem/progenitor cell proliferation
Authors: Nakaji-Hirabayashi T. , Fujimoto K. , Kato Y. , Kitano H. , Inoue Y. , Ishihara K.
Published: September 2016

We tried to clarify the mechanisms underlying immobilized-growth factor in NSPC regulation using approaches from materials science and cell biology.
Microfluidic synthesis of micrometer-sized photoresponsive actuators based on liquid crystalline elastomers
Authors: Braun L. B. , Hessberger T. , Zentel R.
Published: September 2016

Photoresponsive micrometer-sized liquid crystalline elastomer particles were synthesized in a microfluidic setup and showed a strong actuation by irradiation with light.
Metallic back-contact interface design in photoelectrochemical devices
Authors: Neufeld Ofer , Reshef Almog S. , Schein-Lubomirsky Leora , Caspary Toroker Maytal
Published: September 2016

DFT+U electronic structure analysis for a set of metal/metal-oxide interfaces that are important for a variety of electronic applications.
1,3,4-Oxadiazoles as luminescent materials for organic light emitting diodes via cross-coupling reactions
Authors: Paun A. , Hadade N. D. , Paraschivescu C. C. , Matache M.
Published: September 2016

A literature survey of the cross-coupling reactions in the preparation of 1,3,4-oxadiazole compounds as useful materials for OLEDs is described.
Suppression of ryanodine receptor function prolongs Ca2+ release refractoriness and promotes cardiac alternans in intact hearts
Authors: Zhong Xiaowei , Sun Bo , Vallmitjana Alexander , Mi Tao , Guo Wenting , Ni Mingke , Wang Ruiwu , Guo Ang , Duff Henry J. , Gillis Anne M. , Song Long-Sheng , Hove-Madsen Leif , Benitez Raul , Chen S.R. Wayne
Published: September 2016

Beat-to-beat alternations in the amplitude of the cytosolic Ca2+ transient (Ca2+ alternans) are thought to be the primary cause of cardiac alternans that can lead to cardiac arrhythmias and sudden death. Despite its important role in arrhythmogenesis, the mechanism underlying Ca2+ alternans remains poorly understood. Here, we investigated the role of cardiac ryanodine receptor (RyR2), the major Ca2+ release channel responsible for cytosolic Ca2+ transients, in cardiac alternans. Using a unique mouse model harboring a suppression-of-function (SOF) RyR2 mutation (E4872Q), we assessed the effect of genetically suppressing RyR2 function on Ca2+ and action potential duration (APD) alternans in intact hearts, and electrocardiogram (ECG) alternans in vivo. We found that RyR2-SOF hearts displayed prolonged sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ release refractoriness and enhanced propensity for Ca2+ alternans. RyR2-SOF hearts/mice also exhibited increased propensity for APD and ECG alternans. Caffeine, which enhances RyR2 activity and the propensity for catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT), suppressed Ca2+ alternans in RyR2-SOF hearts, whereas carvedilol, a β-blocker that suppresses RyR2 activity and CPVT, promoted Ca2+ alternans in these hearts. Thus, RyR2 function is an important determinant of Ca2+, APD, and ECG alternans. Our data also indicate that the activity of RyR2 influences the propensity for cardiac alternans and CPVT in an opposite manner. Therefore, overly suppressing or enhancing RyR2 function is pro-arrhythmic.
OX40 regulates pressure overload-induced cardiac hypertrophy and remodelling via CD4+ T-cells
Authors: Wu Qing-Qing , Yuan Yuan , Jiang Xiao-Han , Xiao Yang , Yang Zheng , Ma Zhen-Guo , Liao Hai-Han , Liu Yuan , Chang Wei , Bian Zhou-Yan , Tang Qi-Zhu
Published: September 2016

OX40, which belongs to the tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-receptor family, is a costimulatory receptor that can potentiate T-cell receptor signalling on the surface of T-lymphocytes. The role of OX40 in non-immune systems, particularly the cardiovascular system, has not been defined. In the present study, we observed a noticeable increase in OX40 expression during cardiac remodelling in rodent heart. In the present study, cardiac hypertrophy was induced by aortic banding (AB) in OX40 knockout (KO) mice and wild-type (WT) mice. After 8 weeks, the OX40 KO mice showed significantly attenuated cardiac hypertrophy, fibrosis and inflammation as well as preserved cardiac function compared with the WT mice. Follow-up in vitro studies suggested that CD4+ T-lymphocyte proliferation and pro-inflammatory cytokine release were significantly decreased, whereas anti-inflammatory cytokine release was considerably increased in OX40 KO mice compared with WT mice as assessed by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and ELISA. Co-culturing neonatal rat cardiomyocytes with the activated supernatant of CD4+ T-lymphocytes from OX40 KO mice reduced the hypertrophy response. Interestingly, OX40 KO mice with reconstituted CD4+ T-lymphocytes presented deteriorated cardiac remodelling. Collectively, our data indicate that OX40 regulates cardiac remodelling via the modulation of CD4+ T-lymphocytes.
Stochastic Bi‐level Trading Model for an Active Distribution Company with DGs and Interruptible Loads
Authors: Cai Yu , Lin Jin , Wan Can , Song Yonghua
Published: September 2016

With the rapid development of distributed generations (DGs) and interruptible loads (ILs), distribution network company can actively purchase electricity in market instead of playing as a traditional passive purchaser. This study proposes a stochastic bi‐level model‐based strategic trading model for an active distribution company (ADisCo) which operates the active distribution network (ADN) to maximise its profit in electricity market. Uncertainties pertaining to bidding and offering prices of other market rivals’, the imbalance prices in the balance market and the productions of DGs are considered via stochastic programming. Besides, a linear ADN operation model is proposed to ensure ADN operation security within the stochastic programming model. The proposed model is initially formulated as a stochastic bi‐level model, where the upper‐level problem represents the maximisation of the profit of ADN operator, whereas the lower‐level model represents the maximisation of the social welfare in clearing of market from the perspective of independent system operator. On the basis of the complementarity theory, the proposed model can be transformed into a mixed integer linear programming model. Case studies demonstrate the efficiency and effectiveness of the proposed strategic trading model for an ADisCo with DGs and ILs.
Yielding of tantalum at strain rates up to 109 s−1
Authors: Crowhurst Jonathan C. , Armstrong Michael R. , Gates Sean D. , Zaug Joseph M. , Radousky Harry B. , Teslich Nick E.
Published: September 2016

We have used a 45 μJ laser pulse to accelerate the free surface of fine-grained tantalum films up to peak velocities of ∼1.2 km s−1. The films had thicknesses of ∼1–2 μm and in-plane grain widths of ∼75–150 nm. Using ultrafast interferometry, we have measured the time history of the velocity of the surface at different spatial positions across the accelerated region. The initial part of the histories (assumed to correspond to the “elastic precursor” observed previously) exhibited measured strain rates of ∼0.6 to ∼3.2 × 109 s−1 and stresses of ∼4 to ∼22 GPa. Importantly, we find that elastic amplitudes exhibit little variation with strain rate for a constant peak surface velocity, even though, via covariation of the strain rate with peak surface velocity, they vary with strain rate. Furthermore, by comparison with data obtained at lower strain rates, we find that amplitudes are much better predicted by peak velocities rather than by either strain rate or sample thickness.
Numerical analysis of contact line dynamics passing over a single wettable defect on a wall
Authors: Yamamoto Yasufumi , Higashida Shohei , Tanaka Hiroyuki , Wakimoto Tatsuro , Ito Takahiro , Katoh Kenji
Published: September 2016

In this study, the dynamics of a contact line passing a single defect, which was represented by a locally wettable part (whose static contact angle is less than the other part, namely, chemically heterogeneous and physically flat part), was analyzed using numerical simulations employing the front-tracking method and the generalized Navier boundary condition. We observed that the contact line was distorted with a logarithmic shape far from the defect; however, the distortion was dependent on the wall velocity. The apparent (averaged) dynamic contact angle of the wall with a defect was evaluated using a macroscopic energy balance. The apparent dynamic contact angles estimated from the energy balance agree well with the arithmetic averaged angles obtained from the present simulations. The macroscopic energy balance is useful to consider the effect of heterogeneity or roughness of the wall on the relation between the dynamic contact angle and contact line speed.
Rise of an argon bubble in liquid steel in the presence of a transverse magnetic field
Authors: Jin K. , Kumar P. , Vanka S. P. , Thomas B. G.
Published: September 2016

The rise of gaseous bubbles in viscous liquids is a fundamental problem in fluid physics, and it is also a common phenomenon in many industrial applications such as materials processing, food processing, and fusion reactor cooling. In this work, the motion of a single argon gas bubble rising in quiescent liquid steel under an external magnetic field is studied numerically using a Volume-of-Fluid method. To mitigate spurious velocities normally generated during numerical simulation of multiphase flows with large density differences, an improved algorithm for surface tension modeling, originally proposed by Wang and Tong [“Deformation and oscillations of a single gas bubble rising in a narrow vertical tube,” Int. J. Therm. Sci. 47, 221–228 (2008)] is implemented, validated and used in the present computations. The governing equations are integrated by a second-order space and time accurate numerical scheme, and implemented on multiple Graphics Processing Units with high parallel efficiency. The motion and terminal velocities of the rising bubble under different magnetic fields are compared and a reduction in rise velocity is seen in cases with the magnetic field applied. The shape deformation and the path of the bubble are discussed. An elongation of the bubble along the field direction is seen, and the physics behind these phenomena is discussed. The wake structures behind the bubble are visualized and effects of the magnetic field on the wake structures are presented. A modified drag coefficient is obtained to include the additional resistance force caused by adding a transverse magnetic field.
Anharmonic exciton dynamics and energy dissipation in liquid water from two-dimensional infrared spectroscopy
Authors: De Marco Luigi , Fournier Joseph A. , Thämer Martin , Carpenter William , Tokmakoff Andrei
Published: September 2016

Water’s extended hydrogen-bond network results in rich and complex dynamics on the sub-picosecond time scale. In this paper, we present a comprehensive analysis of the two-dimensional infrared (2D IR) spectrum of O–H stretching vibrations in liquid H2O and their interactions with bending and intermolecular vibrations. By exploring the dependence of the spectrum on waiting time, temperature, and laser polarization, we refine our molecular picture of water’s complex ultrafast dynamics. The spectral evolution following excitation of the O–H stretching resonance reveals vibrational dynamics on the 50–300 fs time scale that are dominated by intermolecular delocalization. These O–H stretch excitons are a result of the anharmonicity of the nuclear potential energy surface that arises from the hydrogen-bonding interaction. The extent of O–H stretching excitons is characterized through 2D depolarization measurements that show spectrally dependent delocalization in agreement with theoretical predictions. Furthermore, we show that these dynamics are insensitive to temperature, indicating that the exciton dynamics alone set the important time scales in the system. Finally, we study the evolution of the O–H stretching mode, which shows highly non-adiabatic dynamics suggestive of vibrational conical intersections. We argue that the so-called heating, commonly observed within ∼1 ps in nonlinear IR spectroscopy of water, is a nonequilibrium state better described by a kinetic temperature rather than a Boltzmann distribution. Our conclusions imply that the collective nature of water vibrations should be considered in describing aqueous solvation.