bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cortical actin networks induce spatio-temporal confinement of phospholipids in the plasma membrane – a minimally invasive investigation by STED-FCS
Authors: Andrade Débora M. , Clausen Mathias P. , Keller Jan , Mueller Veronika , Wu Congying , Bear James E. , Hell Stefan W. , Lagerholm B. Christoffer , Eggeling Christian
Published: June 2015

Important discoveries in the last decades have changed our view of the plasma membrane organisation. Specifically, the cortical cytoskeleton has emerged as a key modulator of the lateral diffusion of membrane proteins. Cytoskeleton-dependent compartmentalised lipid diffusion has been proposed, but this concept remains controversial because this phenomenon has thus far only been observed with artefact-prone probes in combination with a single technique: single particle tracking. In this paper, we report the first direct observation of compartmentalised phospholipid diffusion in the plasma membrane of living cells using a minimally invasive, fluorescent dye labelled lipid analogue. These observations were made using optical STED nanoscopy in combination with fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (STED-FCS), a technique which allows the study of membrane dynamics on a sub-millisecond time-scale and with a spatial resolution of down to 40 nm. Specifically, we find that compartmentalised phospholipid diffusion depends on the cortical actin cytoskeleton and that this constrained diffusion is directly dependent on the F-actin branching nucleator Arp2/3. These findings provide solid evidence that the Arp2/3-dependent cortical actin cytoskeleton plays a pivotal role in the dynamic organisation of the plasma membrane, potentially regulating fundamental cellular processes.
Metabolome progression during early gut microbial colonization of gnotobiotic mice
Authors: Marcobal Angela , Yusufaly Tahir , Higginbottom Steven , Snyder Michael , Sonnenburg Justin L. , Mias George I.
Published: June 2015

The microbiome has been implicated directly in host health, especially host metabolic processes and development of immune responses. These are particularly important in infants where the gut first begins being colonized and such processes may be modeled in mice. In this investigation we follow longitudinally the urine metabolome of ex-germ-free mice, which are colonized with two bacterial species, Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron and Bifidobacterium longum. High-throughput mass spectrometry profiling of urine samples revealed dynamic changes in the metabolome makeup, associated with the gut bacterial colonization, enabled by our adaptation of non-linear time-series analysis to urine metabolomics data. Results demonstrate both gradual and punctuated changes in metabolite production and that early colonization events profoundly impact the nature of small molecules circulating in the host. The identified small molecules are implicated in amino acid and carbohydrate metabolic processes and offer insights into the dynamic changes occurring during the colonization process, using high-throughput longitudinal methodology.
Chemical and Metabolic Profiling of Si-Ni Decoction Analogous Formulae by High performance Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Chen Qian , Xiao Shun , Li Zhenhao , Ai Ni , Fan Xiaohui
Published: June 2015

Along with an indispensable role in healthcare system of China for centuries, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) shows increasing usages as complementary therapy in western countries. To improve our understanding on their therapeutic effects, it’s critical to unveil chemical compositions of TCM formula, the predominant form of therapy in TCM. However, intrinsic chemical complexity makes it a challenging task to perform analysis on each individual TCM formula even with most current state-of-art analytic techniques available. In this work we approached this question by focusing on analogous formulae, a unique category of TCM formulae grouped together based on shared herbs and/or similar TCM syndromes. Systematic chemical profiling on five Si-Ni decoctions (SNs) for cardiovascular diseases was performed by multistage MS and high-resolution MS (HR-MS) experiments. A total of 83 compounds, including alkaloids, flavonoids, ginsenosides, bile acids and triterpenoids, were described. Analysis on SNs-treated rats detected 55 prototype compounds and 39 metabolites in the systemic circulation in vivo, which may contribute directly to their observed clinical efficacies. This approach offers great advantage to speed up identification of chemical compositions of formula and reveal the difference among these analogous formulae that may be related to diverse clinical effects.
Graphene-coated materials using silica particles as a framework for highly efficient removal of aromatic pollutants in water
Authors: Yang Kaijie , Chen Baoliang , Zhu Lizhong
Published: June 2015

The substantial aggregation of pristine graphene nanosheets decreases its powerful adsorption capacity and diminishes its practical applications. To overcome this shortcoming, graphene-coated materials (GCMs) were prepared by loading graphene onto silica nanoparticles (SiO2). With the support of SiO2, the stacked interlamination of graphene was held open to expose the powerful adsorption sites in the interlayers. The adsorption of phenanthrene, a model aromatic pollutant, onto the loaded graphene nanosheets increased up to 100 fold compared with pristine graphene at the same level. The adsorption of GCMs increased with the loading amount of the graphene nanosheets and dramatically decreased with the introduction of oxygen-containing groups in the graphene nanosheets. The highly hydrophobic effect and the strong π-π stacking interactions of the exposed graphene nanosheets contributed to their superior adsorption of GCMs. An unusual GCM peak adsorption coefficient (Kd) was observed with the increase in sorbate concentration. The sorbate concentration at peak Kd shifted to lower values for the reduced graphene oxide and graphene relative to the graphene oxide. Therefore, the replacement of water nanodroplets attached to the graphene nanosheets through weak non-hydrogen bonding with phenanthrene molecules via strong π-π stacking interactions is hypothesized to be an additional adsorption mechanism for GCMs.
Thickness of a metallic film, in addition to its roughness, plays a significant role in SERS activity
Authors: Lee Changwon , Robertson Christopher S. , Nguyen An H. , Kahraman Mehmet , Wachsmann-Hogiu Sebastian
Published: June 2015

In this paper we evaluate the effect of roughness and thickness of silver film substrates, fabricated on glass and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) templates, on surface-enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) activity. While the silver substrates obtained on glass templates exhibit nm-scale roughness, the silver substrates on PDMS templates show larger roughness, on the order of 10 s of nm. These roughness values do not change significantly with the thickness of the silver film. The SERS intensities of 4-aminothiophenol (ATP) deposited on these substrates strongly depend on both roughness and thickness, with more significant contribution from the roughness on thinner films. FEM simulations of the electric field intensities on surfaces of different thicknesses for rough and flat surfaces suggest higher localized plamons on thinner, rough surfaces. This study indicates that, besides roughness, the thickness of the metallic layer plays a significant role in the SERS activity.
Bacterial population and biodegradation potential in chronically crude oil-contaminated marine sediments are strongly linked to temperature
Authors: Bargiela Rafael , Mapelli Francesca , Rojo David , Chouaia Bessem , Tornés Jesús , Borin Sara , Richter Michael , Del Pozo Mercedes V. , Cappello Simone , Gertler Christoph , Genovese María , Denaro Renata , Martínez-Martínez Mónica , Fodelianakis Stilianos , Amer Ranya A. , Bigazzi David , Han Xifang , Chen Jianwei , Chernikova Tatyana N. , Golyshina Olga V. , Mahjoubi Mouna , Jaouanil Atef , Benzha Fatima , Magagnini Mirko , Hussein Emad , Al-Horani Fuad , Cherif Ameur , Blaghen Mohamed , Abdel-Fattah Yasser R. , Kalogerakis Nicolas , Barbas Coral , Malkawi Hanan I. , Golyshin Peter N. , Yakimov Michail M. , Daffonchio Daniele , Ferrer Manuel
Published: June 2015

Two of the largest crude oil-polluted areas in the world are the semi-enclosed Mediterranean and Red Seas, but the effect of chronic pollution remains incompletely understood on a large scale. We compared the influence of environmental and geographical constraints and anthropogenic forces (hydrocarbon input) on bacterial communities in eight geographically separated oil-polluted sites along the coastlines of the Mediterranean and Red Seas. The differences in community compositions and their biodegradation potential were primarily associated (P < 0.05) with both temperature and chemical diversity. Furthermore, we observed a link between temperature and chemical and biological diversity that was stronger in chronically polluted sites than in pristine ones where accidental oil spills occurred. We propose that low temperature increases bacterial richness while decreasing catabolic diversity and that chronic pollution promotes catabolic diversification. Our results further suggest that the bacterial populations in chronically polluted sites may respond more promptly in degrading petroleum after accidental oil spills.
Distinct functions of opioid-related peptides and gastrin-releasing peptide in regulating itch and pain in the spinal cord of primates
Authors: Lee Heeseung , Ko Mei-Chuan
Published: June 2015

How neuropeptides in the primate spinal cord regulate itch and pain is largely unknown. Here we elucidate the sensory functions of spinal opioid-related peptides and gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP) in awake, behaving monkeys. Following intrathecal administration, β-endorphin (10–100 nmol) and GRP (1–10 nmol) dose-dependently elicit the same degree of robust itch scratching, which can be inhibited by mu-opioid peptide (MOP) receptor and GRP receptor (BB2) antagonists, respectively. Unlike β-endorphin, which produces itch and attenuates inflammatory pain, GRP only elicits itch without affecting pain. In contrast, enkephalins (100–1000 nmol) and nociceptin-orphanin FQ (3–30 nmol) only inhibit pain without eliciting itch. More intriguingly, dynorphin A(1–17) (10–100 nmol) dose-dependently attenuates both β-endorphin- and GRP-elicited robust scratching without affecting pain processing. The anti-itch effects of dynorphin A can be reversed by a kappa-opioid peptide (KOP) receptor antagonist nor-binaltorphimine. These nonhuman primate behavioral models with spinal delivery of ligands advance our understanding of distinct functions of neuropeptides for modulating itch and pain. In particular, we demonstrate causal links for itch-eliciting effects by β-endorphin-MOP receptor and GRP-BB2 receptor systems and itch-inhibiting effects by the dynorphin A-KOP receptor system. These studies will facilitate transforming discoveries of novel ligand-receptor systems into future therapies as antipruritics and/or analgesics in humans.
Widespread tsunami-like waves of 23-27 June in the Mediterranean and Black Seas generated by high-altitude atmospheric forcing
Authors: Šepić Jadranka , Vilibić Ivica , Rabinovich Alexander B. , Monserrat Sebastian
Published: June 2015

A series of tsunami-like waves of non-seismic origin struck several southern European countries during the period of 23 to 27 June 2014. The event caused considerable damage from Spain to Ukraine. Here, we show that these waves were long-period ocean oscillations known as meteorological tsunamis which are generated by intense small-scale air pressure disturbances. An unique atmospheric synoptic pattern was tracked propagating eastward over the Mediterranean and the Black seas in synchrony with onset times of observed tsunami waves. This pattern favoured generation and propagation of atmospheric gravity waves that induced pronounced tsunami-like waves through the Proudman resonance mechanism. This is the first documented case of a chain of destructive meteorological tsunamis occurring over a distance of thousands of kilometres. Our findings further demonstrate that these events represent potentially dangerous regional phenomena and should be included in tsunami warning systems.
Functional conservation of an ancestral Pellino protein in helminth species
Authors: Cluxton Christopher D. , Caffrey Brian E. , Kinsella Gemma K. , Moynagh Paul N. , Fares Mario A. , Fallon Padraic G.
Published: June 2015

The immune system of H. sapiens has innate signaling pathways that arose in ancestral species. This is exemplified by the discovery of the Toll-like receptor (TLR) pathway using free-living model organisms such as Drosophila melanogaster. The TLR pathway is ubiquitous and controls sensitivity to pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) in eukaryotes. There is, however, a marked absence of this pathway from the plathyhelminthes, with the exception of the Pellino protein family, which is present in a number of species from this phylum. Helminth Pellino proteins are conserved having high similarity, both at the sequence and predicted structural protein level, with that of human Pellino proteins. Pellino from a model helminth, Schistosoma mansoni Pellino (SmPellino), was shown to bind and poly-ubiquitinate human IRAK-1, displaying E3 ligase activity consistent with its human counterparts. When transfected into human cells SmPellino is functional, interacting with signaling proteins and modulating mammalian signaling pathways. Strict conservation of a protein family in species lacking its niche signalling pathway is rare and provides a platform to examine the ancestral functions of Pellino proteins that may translate into novel mechanisms of immune regulation in humans.
Detection and mapping of illicit drugs and their metabolites in fingermarks by MALDI MS and compatibility with forensic techniques
Authors: Groeneveld G. , de Puit M. , Bleay S. , Bradshaw R. , Francese S.
Published: June 2015

Despite the proven capabilities of Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionisation Mass Spectrometry (MALDI MS) in laboratory settings, research is still needed to integrate this technique into current forensic fingerprinting practice. Optimised protocols enabling the compatible application of MALDI to developed fingermarks will allow additional intelligence to be gathered around a suspect’s lifestyle and activities prior to the deposition of their fingermarks while committing a crime. The detection and mapping of illicit drugs and metabolites in latent fingermarks would provide intelligence that is beneficial for both police investigations and court cases. This study investigated MALDI MS detection and mapping capabilities for a large range of drugs of abuse and their metabolites in fingermarks; the detection and mapping of a mixture of these drugs in marks, with and without prior development with cyanoacrylate fuming or Vacuum Metal Deposition, was also examined. Our findings indicate the versatility of MALDI technology and its ability to retrieve chemical intelligence either by detecting the compounds investigated or by using their ion signals to reconstruct 2D maps of fingermark ridge details.
Carbon Nanotube Driver Circuit for 6 × 6 Organic Light Emitting Diode Display
Authors: Zou Jianping , Zhang Kang , Li Jingqi , Zhao Yongbiao , Wang Yilei , Pillai Suresh Kumar Raman , Volkan Demir Hilmi , Sun Xiaowei , Chan-Park Mary B. , Zhang Qing
Published: June 2015

Single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) is expected to be a very promising material for flexible and transparent driver circuits for active matrix organic light emitting diode (AM OLED) displays due to its high field-effect mobility, excellent current carrying capacity, optical transparency and mechanical flexibility. Although there have been several publications about SWNT driver circuits, none of them have shown static and dynamic images with the AM OLED displays. Here we report on the first successful chemical vapor deposition (CVD)-grown SWNT network thin film transistor (TFT) driver circuits for static and dynamic AM OLED displays with 6 × 6 pixels. The high device mobility of ~45 cm2V−1s−1 and the high channel current on/off ratio of ~105 of the SWNT-TFTs fully guarantee the control capability to the OLED pixels. Our results suggest that SWNT-TFTs are promising backplane building blocks for future OLED displays.
Quantifying the Antiviral Effect of IFN on HIV-1 Replication in Cell Culture
Authors: Ikeda Hiroki , Godinho-Santos Ana , Rato Sylvie , Vanwalscappel Bénédicte , Clavel François , Aihara Kazuyuki , Iwami Shingo , Mammano Fabrizio
Published: June 2015

Type-I interferons (IFNs) induce the expression of hundreds of cellular genes, some of which have direct antiviral activities. Although IFNs restrict different steps of HIV replication cycle, their dominant antiviral effect remains unclear. We first quantified the inhibition of HIV replication by IFN in tissue culture, using viruses with different tropism and growth kinetics. By combining experimental and mathematical analyses, we determined quantitative estimates for key parameters of HIV replication and inhibition and demonstrate that IFN mainly inhibitsde novoinfection (33% and 47% for a X4- and a R5-strain, respectively), rather than virus production (15% and 6% for the X4 and R5 strains, respectively). This finding is in agreement with patient-derived data analyses.
Toxicity of aged gasoline exhaust particles to normal and diseased airway epithelia
Authors: Künzi Lisa , Krapf Manuel , Daher Nancy , Dommen Josef , Jeannet Natalie , Schneider Sarah , Platt Stephen , Slowik Jay G. , Baumlin Nathalie , Salathe Matthias , Prévôt André S. H. , Kalberer Markus , Strähl Christof , Dümbgen Lutz , Sioutas Constantinos , Baltensperger Urs , Geiser Marianne
Published: June 2015

Particulate matter (PM) pollution is a leading cause of premature death, particularly in those with pre-existing lung disease. A causative link between particle properties and adverse health effects remains unestablished mainly due to complex and variable physico-chemical PM parameters. Controlled laboratory experiments are required. Generating atmospherically realistic aerosols and performing cell-exposure studies at relevant particle-doses are challenging. Here we examine gasoline-exhaust particle toxicity from a Euro-5 passenger car in a uniquely realistic exposure scenario, combining a smog chamber simulating atmospheric ageing, an aerosol enrichment system varying particle number concentration independent of particle chemistry and an aerosol deposition chamber physiologically delivering particles on air-liquid interface (ALI) cultures reproducing normal and susceptible health status. Gasoline-exhaust is an important PM source with largely unknown health effects. We investigated acute responses of fully-differentiated normal, distressed (antibiotics-treated) normal and cystic fibrosis human bronchial epithelia (HBE) and a proliferating, single-cell type bronchial epithelial cell-line (BEAS-2B). We show that a single, short-term exposure to realistic doses of atmospherically-aged gasoline-exhaust particles impairs epithelial key-defence mechanisms, rendering it more vulnerable to subsequent hazards. We establish dose-response curves at realistic particle-concentration levels. Significant differences between cell models suggest the use of fully-differentiated HBE is most appropriate in future toxicity studies.
Multivariate analysis applied to Raman mapping of dye-functionalized carbon nanotubes: a novel approach to support the rational design of functional nanostructures
Authors: Visentin Sonja , Barbero Nadia , Bertani Francesca Romana , Cestelli Guidi Mariangela , Ermondi Giuseppe , Viscardi Guido , Mussi Valentina
Published: June 2015

A powerful routine test proposed for the rational design of functional nanostructures allows fast and reliable classification of differently treated CNTs.
MALDI mass spectrometric imaging meets “omics”: recent advances in the fruitful marriage
Authors: Crecelius A. C. , Schubert U. S. , von Eggeling F.
Published: June 2015

Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometric imaging (MALDI MSI) is a method that allows the investigation of the molecular content of surfaces, in particular, tissues, within its morphological context.
Bipolar and fixable probe targeting mitochondria to trace local depolarization via two-photon fluorescence lifetime imaging
Authors: Wang Benlei , Zhang Xinfu , Wang Chao , Chen Lingcheng , Xiao Yi , Pang Yi
Published: June 2015

A two-photon probe MITFPS maintains permanent localization in inner mitochondrial membranes through chemical immobilization and assembly into the phospholipid layer, which enables exclusive signaling of mitochondrial delocalization.
Nanomaterial based mass spectrometry of oligodeoxynucleotide–drug complexes
Authors: Huang Yu-Hui , Wang Chia-Wei , Chen Wen-Tsen , Chen Li-Yi , Chang Huan-Tsung
Published: June 2015

SALDI-MS has been applied to the detection of ODNs and MTX–ODN complexes using HgTe nanostructures as matrices.
Development of a validated HPLC method for the determination of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate using a green enrichment process
Authors: Zhang Zhenzhen , Wang Lingling , Xu Xu , Dong Yuanyuan , Zhang Lei
Published: June 2015

A MSPE method for the detection of TDF using recoverable NiFe2O4/MWCNT was developed. IL-[C8mim][PF6] can substitute for toxic and hazardous solvents as a green eluent. The proposed method was successfully applied to determine trace TDF in real samples.
A supercritical fluid chromatography method for the systematic toxicology analysis of cannabinoids and their metabolites
Authors: Geryk R. , Švidrnoch M. , Přibylka A. , Kalíková K. , Maier V. , Tesařová E.
Published: June 2015

A novel, simple and rapid supercritical fluid chromatography method was developed as a screening tool for natural and synthetic cannabinoids and their metabolites in biological samples.
A turn-on upconversion fluorescence resonance energy transfer biosensor for ultrasensitive endonuclease detection
Authors: Huang Li-Jiao , Tian Xue , Yi Jin-Tao , Yu Ru-Qin , Chu Xia
Published: June 2015

A facile one-step approach is proposed to make hydrophilic and DNA-functionalized upconversion nanoparticles through ligand exchange at the liquid–liquid interface, and an ultrasensitive and selective biosensor was designed for assaying nuclease activity and inhibition, based on FRET from the DNA-functionalized UCNPs to graphene oxide.
Electrochemical detection of 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine as a biomarker for oxidative DNA damage in HEK293 cells exposed to 3-chloro-1,2-propanediol
Authors: Sun Xiulan , Zhang Lijuan , Zhang Hongxia , Qian He , Ji Jian , Tang Lili , Li Zaijun , Zhang Genyi
Published: June 2015

Detection of 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine generated via ROS-mediated oxidative DNA damage in HEK293 cells through a fabricated electrochemical sensor for evaluation of the cytotoxicity of 3-MCPD.
α-Aminoisobutyric acid incorporation induces cell permeability and antiviral activity of HIV-1 major homology region fragments
Authors: Lampel Ayala , Elis Efrat , Guterman Tom , Shapira Sharon , Marco Pini , Bacharach Eran , Gazit Ehud
Published: June 2015

A cell-penetrating peptide derived from HIV-1 major homology region, incorporating the non-coded α-aminoisobutyric acid, inhibits viral assembly and infectivity.
Isolation and characterization of the [Ga2Al18O8(OH)36(H2O)12]8+ cluster: cationic variations on the Wells–Dawson topology
Authors: Fairley M. , Corum K. W. , Johns A. , Unruh D. K. , Basile M. , de Groot J. , Mason S. E. , Forbes T. Z.
Published: June 2015

A new structural topology for a Wells–Dawson type of polyoxometalate has been isolated and DFT calculations show the same valence electronic structure regardless of heteroatom identity.
Facet-dependent NiS2 polyhedrons on counter electrodes for dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Zheng Jinlong , Zhou Wei , Ma Yiran , Cao Wei , Wang Chengbo , Guo Lin
Published: June 2015

Octahedral and cubic NiS2 nanocrystals enclosed by {111} and {100} planes were separately used as counter electrodes in DSSCs, and the facet-dependent electrochemical performance was disclosed.
High-performance PdNi alloy structured in situ on monolithic metal foam for coalbed methane deoxygenation via catalytic combustion
Authors: Zhang Qiaofei , Wu Xin-Ping , Zhao Guofeng , Li Yakun , Wang Chunzheng , Liu Ye , Gong Xue-Qing , Lu Yong
Published: June 2015

A promising monolithic foam-structured PdNi alloy catalyst has been developed by galvanic deposition and in situ reaction activation, providing exceptionally high activity/selectivity, remarkable stability with oscillation elimination, and enhanced heat transfer.
TiO2 nanotubes with ultrathin walls for enhanced water splitting
Authors: Mohamed Ahmad M. , Aljaber Amina S. , AlQaradawi Siham Y. , Allam Nageh K.
Published: June 2015

Nanotube wall thickness determines its solar energy conversion efficiency.
A facile one-pot hydrothermal synthesis of branched α-MnO2 nanorods for supercapacitor application
Authors: Su Xiaohui , Yang Xianfeng , Yu Lin , Cheng Gao , Zhang Huanhua , Lin Ting , Zhao Feng-Hua
Published: June 2015

Branched α-MnO2 nanorods are synthesized using a facile, green and effective one-pot hydrothermal approach without surfactants or templates. The branched α-MnO2 nanorod electrode exhibited good supercapacitive properties due to its novel textural morphology and crystal structure.
Calixarene assembly with enhanced photocurrents using P(SNS-NH2)/CdS nanoparticle structure modified Au electrode systems
Authors: Sayin Serkan , Azak Hacer , Yildiz Huseyin Bekir , Camurlu Pinar , Akkus Gulderen Uysal , Toppare Levent , Ersoz Mustafa
Published: June 2015

Two novel calix[n]arene-adorned gold electrodes producing high photocurrent intensities were successfully constructed.
Segregation of ions at the interface: molecular dynamics studies of the bulk and liquid–vapor interface structure of equimolar binary mixtures of ionic liquids
Authors: Palchowdhury Sourav , Bhargava B. L.
Published: June 2015

Ions in an equimolar binary mixture of [emim][TfO] and [omim][TfO] segregate at the liquid–vapor interface to form a hydrophobic surface composed of octyl chains.
Nanostructured conductive polymers for advanced energy storage
Authors: Shi Ye , Peng Lele , Ding Yu , Zhao Yu , Yu Guihua
Published: June 2015

Nanostructured conductive polymers (nCPs) have aroused considerable research interest owing to their unique properties over their bulk counterparts, such as high electrical conductivity, large surface areas, and shortened pathways for charge/mass transport. These advantageous features make them promising candidates for applications in energy storage devices.
Construction of Cu3Mo2O9 nanoplates with excellent lithium storage properties based on a pH-dependent dimensional change
Authors: Xia Juan , Song Le Xin , Liu Wei , Teng Yue , Zhao Li , Wang Qing Shan , Ruan Mao Mao
Published: June 2015

1D, 2D and 3D nanostructures of CMOHs were successfully constructed through a pH-dependent dimensional transformation of ACM.
Spectroscopic, thermodynamic, kinetic studies and oxidase/antioxidant biomimetic catalytic activities of tris(3,5-dimethylpyrazolyl)borate Cu(ii) complexes
Authors: Shaban Shaban Y. , Ramadan Abd El-Motaleb M. , Ibrahim Mohamed M. , Mohamed Mahmoud A. , van Eldik Rudi
Published: June 2015

The ligand substitution, antioxidant and catechol oxidase activities of a new series of tripodal copper(ii) complexes were studied.
High-pressure phase transitions in ordered and disordered Bi2Te2Se
Authors: Nielsen M. B. , Parisiades P. , Madsen S. R. , Bremholm M.
Published: June 2015

Bi2Te2Se appears to undergo an electronic transition near 3 GPa, changing to a monoclinic phase near 10 GPa followed by a structural analogue of the cubic alloy of Bi2Te3 but low-angle diffraction demonstrates lower symmetry.
Plasma-based conversion of CO2: current status and future challenges
Authors: Bogaerts Annemie , Kozák Tomas , van Laer Koen , Snoeckx Ramses
Published: June 2015

This paper discusses our recent results on plasma-based CO2 conversion, obtained by a combination of experiments and modeling, for a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD), a microwave plasma and a packed bed DBD reactor. The results illustrate that plasma technology is quite promising for CO2 conversion, but more research is needed to better understand the underlying mechanisms and to further improve the capabilities.
Quantifying the formation of chiral luminescent lanthanide assemblies in an aqueous medium through chiroptical spectroscopy and generation of luminescent hydrogels
Authors: Bradberry Samuel J. , Savyasachi Aramballi Jayant , Peacock Robert D. , Gunnlaugsson Thorfinnur
Published: June 2015

Herein we present the synthesis and the photophysical evaluation of water-soluble chiral ligands (2·(R,R) and 2·(S,S)) and their application in the formation of lanthanide directed self-assembled structures. These pyridine-2,6-dicarboxylic amide based ligands, possessing two naphthalene moieties as sensitising antennae, that can be used to populate the excited state of lanthanide ions, were structurally modified using 3-propanesultone and caesium carbonate, allowing for the incorporation of a water-solubilising sulfonate motif. We show, using microwave synthesis, that Eu(iii) forms chiral complexes in 1 : 3 (M : L) stoichiometries (Eu·[2·(R,R)]3 and Eu·[2·(S,S)]3) with these ligands, and that the red Eu(iii)-centred emission arising from these complexes has quantum yields (Φtot) of 12% in water. Both circular dichroism (CD) and circular polarised luminescence (CPL) analysis show that the complexes are chiral; giving rise to characteristic CD and CPL signatures for both the Λ and the Δ complexes, which both possess characteristic luminescence dissymmetry factors (glum), describing the structure in solution. The self-assembly process was also monitored in situ by observing the changes in the ligand absorption and fluorescence emission, as well as in the Eu(iii) luminescence. The change, fitted using non-linear regression analysis, demonstrated high binding affinity for Eu(iii) which in part can be assigned to being driven by additional hydrophobic effects. Moreover, using CD spectroscopy, the changes in the chiroptical properties of both (2·(R,R) and 2·(S,S)) were monitored in real time. Fitting the changes in the CD spectra allowed for the step-wise binding constants to be determined for these assemblies; these matched well with those determined from both the ground and the excited state changes. Both the ligands and the Eu(iii) complexes were then used in the formation of hydrogels; the Eu(iii)-metallogels were luminescent to the naked-eye.
Reversible nanostructuration of microfluidic electrode devices by CNT magnetic co-entrapment
Authors: Herrasti Zorione , Martínez Fernando , Baldrich Eva
Published: June 2015

A fast and simple method for the reversible nanostructuration of microfluidic electrode devicesin situis reported.
Exploring the associations of host genes for viral infection revealed by genome-wide RNAi and virus–host protein interactions
Authors: Xie Dafei , Han Lu , Luo Yifu , Liu Yang , He Song , Bai Hui , Wang Shengqi , Bo Xiaochen
Published: June 2015

Genome-wide RNA interference screens have greatly facilitated the identification of essential host factors (EHFs) for viral infections, whose knockdown effects significantly influence virus replication but not host cell viability.
Routes to 3D conformal solid-state dielectric polymers: electrodeposition versus initiated chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Sassin Megan B. , Long Jeffrey W. , Wallace Jean Marie , Rolison Debra R.
Published: June 2015

We show that two distinct methods, electropolymerization and initiated chemical vapour deposition (iCVD), can be adapted to generate ultrathin polymers (30–50 nm thick) at three dimensionally (3D) porous conductive substrates comprising ∼300 μm-thick carbon-coated silica fiber paper (C@SiO2).
The application of l-tryptophan functionalized graphene-supported platinum nanoparticles for chiral recognition of DOPA enantiomers
Authors: Chen Ya , Xu Juanjuan , Chen Cui , Guo Dongmei , Fu Yingzi
Published: June 2015

A carbon-based nanocomposite surface was prepared to develop a simple strategy for electrochemical chiral analysis.
Ir nanoparticles-anchored reduced graphene oxide as a catalyst for oxygen electrode in Li–O2cells
Authors: Kumar Surender , Chinnathambi Selvaraj , Munichandraiah Nookala
Published: June 2015

Ir nanoparticles are decorated on reduced graphene oxide and used as a catalyst for bifunctional ORR–OER in non-aqueous Li–O2cells.
A protein–polymer hybrid gene carrier based on thermophilic histone and polyethylenimine
Authors: Shi Hui , Han Haobo , Xing Zhen , Chen Jiawen , Wang Yudi , Zhang Aijun , Shi Wei , Li Quanshun
Published: June 2015

Protein–polymer hybrid gene carrier with high transfection efficiency and low cytotoxicity.
Monodisperse platinum nanoparticles supported on highly ordered mesoporous silicon nitride nanoblocks: superior catalytic activity for hydrogen generation from sodium borohydride
Authors: Salameh Chrystelle , Bruma Alina , Malo Sylvie , Demirci Umit B. , Miele Philippe , Bernard Samuel
Published: June 2015

Synthesis and characterization of ordered mesoporous silicon nitride nanoblocks as efficient supports of platinum nanoparticles for the hydrolysis of sodium borohydride.
The preparation of Cr2O3@WO3 hierarchical nanostructures and their application in the detection of volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
Authors: Li Yujia , Li Feng , Li Chao , Wei Wei , Jiang Dingsheng , Zhu Linghui , Sun Dongming , Zhang Xindong , Ruan Shengping
Published: June 2015

Unique hierarchical nanostructures of a Cr2O3@WO3 sensor were prepared via a water bath method, showing extraordinary sensing properties for xylene.
Surface-mediated selective photocatalytic aerobic oxidation reactions on TiO2 nanofibres
Authors: Huang Lizhi , Jia Jianfeng , Liu Hongwei , Yuan Yong , Zhao Jian , Chen Shuai , Fan Weibin , Waclawik Eric R. , Zhu Huaiyong , Zheng Zhanfeng
Published: June 2015

The interaction between photocatalyst surface and the reactants may outweigh its light absorption ability in photocatalytic activities.
Small lipopeptides possess anti-biofilm capability comparable to daptomycin and vancomycin
Authors: Mishra Biswajit , Lushnikova Tamara , Wang Guangshun
Published: June 2015

Antibiotic resistance, to a large extent, is related to the formation of bacterial biofilms.
An online immobilized α-glucosidase microreactor for enzyme kinetics and inhibition assays
Authors: Liu Dong-Mei , Chen Juan , Shi Yan-Ping
Published: June 2015

A novel online α-glucosidase-immobilized microreactor was developed by immobilizing α-glucosidase on capillary inner wall. The microreactor combination with capillary electrophoresis was applied in studying enzyme kinetics and inhibition kinetics.
Improved thermoelectric performance of Te-doped and CNT dispersed CoSb3 skutterudite bulk materials via HTHP
Authors: Sun Hairui , Jia Xiaopeng , Lv Pin , Deng Le , Guo Xin , Zhang Yuewen , Sun Bing , Liu Binwu , Ma Hongan
Published: June 2015

CNTs were dispersed in Co4Sb11.5Te0.5 skutterudite bulk materials via a HTHP method. The effects of the Te and CNT content on the structure and thermoelectric properties were investigated under different pressures.
Modulation of bovine serum albumin fibrillation by ester bonded and conventional gemini surfactants
Authors: Yaseen Zahid , Rehman Sayeed Ur , Tabish Mohammad , Shalla Aabid H. , Kabir-ud-Din Kabir-ud-Din
Published: June 2015

Modulation of bovine serum albumin fibrillation by gemini surfactants.
Facile synthesis of hierarchical worm-like MoS2 structures assembled with nanosheets as anode for lithium ion batteries
Authors: Wang Hui-Yuan , Wang Bang-Yong , Wang Dong , Lu Lun , Wang Jin-Guo , Jiang Qi-Chuan
Published: June 2015

Hierarchical worm-like MoS2 structures directionally assembled with nanosheets are successfully synthesized via a simple hydrothermal route using potassium sodium tartrate as a structure-directing agent.
Superior optical response of size-controlled silicon nano-crystals in a-Si:H/nc-Si:H superlattice films for multi-junction solar cells
Authors: Kar Debjit , Das Debajyoti
Published: June 2015

In order to facilitate widening in optical band gaps utilizing quantum size-effects, self-assembled Si-ncs embedded in an a-Si matrix were grown within a-Si:H/nc-Si:H superlattice thin films produced by alternating sub-layers of a-Si:H and nc-Si:H.
Carbon nanotube-assisted growth of single-/multi-layer SnS2and SnO2nanoflakes for high-performance lithium storage
Authors: Guan Dongsheng , Li Jianyang , Gao Xianfeng , Yuan Chris
Published: June 2015

Composite of ultrathin SnS2and SnO2nanoflakes with conducting multiwalled carbon nanotube matrix as superior anode materials for lithium-ion batteries.
Effects of h-BN on the thermal and mechanical properties of PBT/PC/ABS blend based composites
Authors: Jin Xing , Fu Nian , Ding Huili , Zhao Nan , Sang Jianbing , Li Xiaolei , Abbas Saleem , Xu Xuewen , Meng Fanbin , Li Jie , Fan Ying , Tang Chengchun
Published: June 2015

H-BNMPs were shown to have an obvious effect on the thermal conductivity of the blend. The addition of h-BN hybrids enhanced the mechanical properties of composites with remarkably improvement of the thermal conductivity.
A BODIPY/pyrene-based chemodosimetric fluorescent chemosensor for selective sensing of hydrazine in the gas and aqueous solution state and its imaging in living cells
Authors: Mahapatra Ajit Kumar , Maji Rajkishor , Maiti Kalipada , Manna Saikat Kumar , Mondal Sanchita , Ali Syed Samim , Manna Srimanta , Sahoo Prithidipa , Mandal Sukhendu , Uddin Md Raihan , Mandal Debasish
Published: June 2015

A BODIPY-based pyrenebutyrate-linked (BPB) chromogenic and fluorogenic probe was synthesized and characterized for the specific detection of hydrazine.
Combined photophysical, NMR and theoretical (DFT) study on the interaction of a multi component system in the absence and presence of different biologically and environmentally important ions
Authors: Bhoi Abhas Kumar , Sahu Prabhat Kumar , Jha Gaurav , Sarkar Moloy
Published: June 2015

The receptor–analyte binding interaction leads to an intense change in the absorption and emission spectral profiles of the system.
Comparative pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of intranasal and rectal midazolam formulations relative to buccal administration in rabbits
Authors: Zhuang XiaoMei , Wang XiaoYing , Wang Juan , Li JingLai , Zheng AiPing , Lu Chuang , Zhang ZhenQing
Published: June 2015

The rectal and intranasal formulations under current development demonstrated comparative potential for administering midazolam in treating seizures in a medical emergency service.
Investigation on the electrochemistry and cytotoxicity of the natural product marcanine A and its synthetic derivatives
Authors: Jacobs Nadine , Lang Steffen , Panisch Robin , Wittstock Gunther , Groth Ulrich , Nasiri Hamid R.
Published: June 2015

The electrochemistry and cytotoxicity of marcanine A were investigated by electrochemical, computational and cellular studies.
Synthesis and electronic properties of N-heterocyclic carbene-containing conducting polymers with coinage metals
Authors: Satheeshkumar Chinnadurai , Park Ji-Young , Jeong Dong-Cheol , Song Sung Gu , Lee Jaemin , Song Changsik
Published: June 2015

A series of bithiophene based N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) conducting polymers containing coinage metals (Cu, Ag, and Au) was designed and characterized.
Capillary droplet propulsion on a fibre
Authors: Haefner Sabrina , Bäumchen Oliver , Jacobs Karin
Published: June 2015

We study the dewetting speed of polystyrene droplets on hydrophobized fibres as a function of molecular weight and temperature and compare to a force balance model based on purely viscous dissipation.
Unexpected coupling between flow and adsorption in porous media
Authors: Vanson Jean-Mathieu , Coudert François-Xavier , Rotenberg Benjamin , Levesque Maximilien , Tardivat Caroline , Klotz Michaela , Boutin Anne
Published: June 2015

Lattice Boltzmann simulations show how fluid flow can perturb adsorption in complex porous media.
Large formamidinium lead trihalide perovskite solar cells using chemical vapor deposition with high reproducibility and tunable chlorine concentrations
Authors: Leyden Matthew R. , Lee Michael V. , Raga Sonia R. , Qi Yabing
Published: June 2015

Formamidinium perovskite films have been prepared by chemical vapor deposition, with cells demonstrating PCEs up to 14.2%, stability up to 155 days, semitransparency, large-area (1 cm2), and tunable chlorine concentrations.
Clinical Supervision and the Use of a Three-Tiered Hierarchical Approach to Evaluate Student Clinician Performance
Authors: Solomon-Rice Patti , Robinson Nancy
Published: June 2015

Effective university clinical supervision requires the clinical instructor to modify supervisory style based on the student clinician's skill level, experience, and learning style. In addition, clinical education programs provide clinical instructors with an evaluation tool to assess the supervisee's clinical performance. This article reviews the supervisory process and models for modifying supervisory styles and describes various evaluation tools that can be used to evaluate clinical skills. A clinical evaluation tool is then introduced that emphasizes clinical proficiency rather than type of clinical supervision. The tool incorporates hierarchical expectations when evaluating student clinician practicum knowledge and skills across three levels of student clinicians: beginning, intermediate, and advanced. Information is provided about the content of the three-tiered hierarchical evaluation tool and the process used to assess clinical performance. Qualitative feedback from surveys completed by clinical instructors and student clinicians about the tool is reviewed.
Preliminary Findings on the Use of Session Questionnaires to Improve Clinician-Client Alliance With Special Consideration to Clinical Education
Authors: Subramanian Anu
Published: June 2015

ASHA's focus on evidence-based practice (EBP) includes the family/stakeholder perspective as an important tenet in clinical decision making. The common factors model for treatment effectiveness postulates that clinician-client alliance positively impacts therapeutic outcomes and may be the most important factor for success. One strategy to improve alliance between a client and clinician is the use of outcome questionnaires. In the current study, eight parents of toddlers who attended therapy sessions at a university clinic responded to a session outcome questionnaire that included both rating scale and descriptive questions. Six graduate students completed a survey that included a question about the utility of the questionnaire. Results indicated that the descriptive questions added value and information compared to using only the rating scale. The students were varied in their responses regarding the effectiveness of the questionnaire to increase their comfort with parents. Information gathered from the questionnaire allowed for specific feedback to graduate students to change behaviors and created opportunities for general discussions regarding effective therapy techniques. In addition, the responses generated conversations between the client and clinician focused on clients' concerns. Involving the stakeholder in identifying both effective and ineffective aspects of therapy has advantages for clinical practice and education.
Single-crystal Brillouin spectroscopy with CO2 laser heating and variable q
Authors: Zhang Jin S. , Bass Jay D. , Zhu Gaohua
Published: June 2015

We describe a Brillouin spectroscopy system integrated with CO2 laser-heating and Raman spectroscopic capabilities. Temperature is determined by measurements of the grey-body thermal radiation emitted by the hot sample, with the system response calibrated relative to a standard tungsten ribbon lamp. High-pressure laser-heating Brillouin scattering measurements of acoustic velocities on liquid water and ice compressed in a diamond-anvil cell were performed at temperatures up to 2500 ± 150 K at high pressure. Single-crystal laser-heating Brillouin measurements were made on the (111) plane of San Carlos olivine at ∼13 GPa, 1300 ± 200 K. The pressure as measured by ruby fluorescence is shown to be within ±0.5 GPa of the pressure on the olivine sample during laser heating when KCl and KBr are used as pressure-transmitting media. In addition, the system is designed for continuously variable scattering angles from forward scattering (near 0° scattering angle) up to near back scattering (∼141°). This novel setup allows us to probe a wide range of wave vectors q for investigation of phonon dispersion on, for example, crystals with large unit cells (on the scale of hundreds of nm).
Time-resolved structural studies with serial crystallography: A new light on retinal proteins
Authors: Panneels Valérie , Wu Wenting , Tsai Ching-Ju , Nogly Przemek , Rheinberger Jan , Jaeger Kathrin , Cicchetti Gregor , Gati Cornelius , Kick Leonhard M. , Sala Leonardo , Capitani Guido , Milne Chris , Padeste Celestino , Pedrini Bill , Li Xiao-Dan , Standfuss Jörg , Abela Rafael , Schertler Gebhard
Published: June 2015

Structural information of the different conformational states of the two prototypical light-sensitive membrane proteins, bacteriorhodopsin and rhodopsin, has been obtained in the past by X-ray cryo-crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy. However, these methods do not allow for the structure determination of most intermediate conformations. Recently, the potential of X-Ray Free Electron Lasers (X-FELs) for tracking the dynamics of light-triggered processes by pump-probe serial femtosecond crystallography has been demonstrated using 3D-micron-sized crystals. In addition, X-FELs provide new opportunities for protein 2D-crystal diffraction, which would allow to observe the course of conformational changes of membrane proteins in a close-to-physiological lipid bilayer environment. Here, we describe the strategies towards structural dynamic studies of retinal proteins at room temperature, using injector or fixed-target based serial femtosecond crystallography at X-FELs. Thanks to recent progress especially in sample delivery methods, serial crystallography is now also feasible at synchrotron X-ray sources, thus expanding the possibilities for time-resolved structure determination.
Ultrasonic fingerprint sensor using a piezoelectric micromachined ultrasonic transducer array integrated with complementary metal oxide semiconductor electronics
Authors: Lu Y. , Tang H. , Fung S. , Wang Q. , Tsai J. M. , Daneman M. , Boser B. E. , Horsley D. A.
Published: June 2015

This paper presents an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor based on a 24 × 8 array of 22 MHz piezoelectric micromachined ultrasonic transducers (PMUTs) with 100 μm pitch, fully integrated with 180 nm complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) circuitry through eutectic wafer bonding. Each PMUT is directly bonded to a dedicated CMOS receive amplifier, minimizing electrical parasitics and eliminating the need for through-silicon vias. The array frequency response and vibration mode-shape were characterized using laser Doppler vibrometry and verified via finite element method simulation. The array's acoustic output was measured using a hydrophone to be ∼14 kPa with a 28 V input, in reasonable agreement with predication from analytical calculation. Pulse-echo imaging of a 1D steel grating is demonstrated using electronic scanning of a 20 × 8 sub-array, resulting in 300 mV maximum received amplitude and 5:1 contrast ratio. Because the small size of this array limits the maximum image size, mechanical scanning was used to image a 2D polydimethylsiloxane fingerprint phantom (10 mm × 8 mm) at a 1.2 mm distance from the array.