bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiple steady states in exchange flows across faults and the dissolution of
Authors: Woods Andrew W. , Hesse Marc , Berkowitz Rachel , Chang Kyung Won
Published: March 2015

We develop a model of the steady exchange flows which may develop between two aquifers at different levels in the geological strata and across which there is an unstable density stratification, as a result of their connection through a series of fractures. We show that in general there are multiple steady exchange flows which can develop, depending on the initial conditions, and which may involve a net upwards or downwards volume flux. We also show that there is a family of equilibrium exchange flows with zero net volume flux, each characterised by a different interlayer flux of buoyancy. We present experiments which confirm our simplified model of the exchange flow. Such exchange flows may supply unsaturated water from a deep aquifer to drive dissolution of a structurally trapped pool of geologically stored $\text{CO}_{2}$, once the water in the aquifer containing the trapped pool of $\text{CO}_{2}$ has become saturated in $\text{CO}_{2}$, and hence relatively dense. Such exchange flows may also lead to cross-contamination of aquifer fluids, which may be of relevance in assessing risks of geological storage systems.
Joint probabilities and mixing of isolated scalars emitted from parallel jets
Authors: Soltys M. A. , Crimaldi J. P.
Published: March 2015

Mixing and reaction between two scalars initially separated by scalar-free ambient fluid is important in problems ranging from ecology to engineering. Using a two-channel planar laser-induced fluorescence (PLIF) system the instantaneous spatial structure of two independent scalars emitted from parallel jets into a slow coflow is quantified. Of particular interest is the scalar covariance used to define the correlation coefficient. Joint probability distribution functions (JPDFs) and instantaneous images of the scalar fields demonstrate that initially the flow mainly consists of incursions of fluid from one jet into the other, and vice versa, before scalars have time to assemble in attracting regions of the flow and coalesce due to diffusive flux. Decomposing the joint probability distribution exhibits the effect these events have on scaler overlap and scalar covariance. Along the centreline near where the mean profiles of the jets meet, the scalar covariance is negative; however, the covariance becomes positive as the scalars converge in shared structure and diffusive flux bridges a reduced barrier of ambient fluid. The mixing path between scalar filaments can be probabilistically observed through the conditional diffusion of the two scalars at various points in the flow.
Screening and Assessment of Specific Learning Disabilities in Higher Education Institutes in the Republic of Ireland
Authors: Harkin Emma , Doyle Alison , Mc Guckin Conor
Published: March 2015

Students with specific learning difficulties (SpLD) in higher education institutions (HEIs) in the Republic of Ireland are required to have a formal psycho-educational assessment from an educational psychologist to register with Disability Services in HEIs, to be eligible for support through the Fund for Students with Disabilities (FSD). Such assessments are expensive and often beyond the financial means of students and their families. However, there is a sustained demand from students experiencing academic difficulties for diagnostic assessment of SpLD (Association for Higher Education Access and Disability [AHEAD], 2012). This study describes the SpLD screening and assessment practices implemented by HEIs in Ireland (n = 14), finding that (a) there are no defined parameters for assessment of SpLD in higher education (HE), meaning that methods and accuracy of identification of positive indicators may vary across HEIs; and (b) the majority of HEIs screen for dyslexia only, with little or no recognition of the need to assess for comorbidity of learning disabilities. Findings support the requirement for a reliable and valid standardised assessment procedure for Irish HEIs, which would provide equitable access to an initial diagnosis. Finally, a screening model is proposed, which is currently provided by one HEI.
What Makes an Effective Psychoeducational Report? Perceptions of Teachers and Psychologists
Authors: Fletcher Janet , Hawkins Tara , Thornton Jenna
Published: March 2015

The psychoeducational report has many purposes and many readers. Given this, it is imperative that psychoeducational reports are well written, as well as acceptable to and understood by the readers. This study aimed to determine from the perspective of both teacher (report reader) and psychologist (report writer) the factors that make an effective psychoeducational report. The current study examined the effects of report style and language on satisfaction with and understanding and perceived utility of psychoeducational reports as rated by teachers and psychologists with varying degrees of experience. We expected that reports which contained a theme-based organisation and a lower grade reading level would receive significantly higher ratings of satisfaction and utility, and be understood by teachers and psychologists at significantly higher levels than reports with neither or only one of these two characteristics. Results indicated that while teachers in the present study were not more satisfied with the theme-based non-technical report and did not rate it as more useful, they did consider non-technical language easier to understand. Psychologists, in contrast, were not impacted by either variation in report style. The impact of differences between writer and reader on perceived understandability of reports is discussed.
Dietary protein intake affects expression of genes for lipid metabolism in porcine skeletal muscle in a genotype-dependent manner
Authors: Liu Yingying , Li Fengna , He Lingyun , Tan Bie , Deng Jinping , Kong Xiangfeng , Li Yinghui , Geng Meimei , Yin Yulong , Wu Guoyao
Published: March 2015

Skeletal muscle is a major site for the oxidation of fatty acids (FA) in mammals, including humans. Using a swine model, we tested the hypothesis that dietary protein intake regulates the expression of key genes for lipid metabolism in skeletal muscle. A total of ninety-six barrows (forty-eight pure-bred Bama mini-pigs (fatty genotype) and forty-eight Landrace pigs (lean genotype)) were fed from 5 weeks of age to market weight. Pigs of fatty or lean genotype were randomly assigned to one of two dietary treatments (low- or adequate-protein diet), with twenty-four individually fed pigs per treatment. Our data showed that dietary protein levels affected the expression of genes involved in the anabolism and catabolism of lipids in the longissimus dorsi and biceps femoris muscles in a genotype-dependent manner. Specifically, Bama mini-pigs had more intramuscular fat, SFA and MUFA, as well as elevated mRNA expression levels of lipogenic genes, compared with Landrace pigs. In contrast, Bama mini-pigs had lower mRNA expression levels of lipolytic genes than Landrace pigs fed an adequate-protein diet in the growing phase. These data are consistent with higher white-fat deposition in Bama mini-pigs than in Landrace pigs. In conclusion, adequate provision of dietary protein (amino acids) plays an important role in regulating the expression of key lipogenic genes, and the growth of white adipose tissue, in a genotype- and tissue-specific manner. These findings have important implications for developing novel dietary strategies in pig production.
Prevalence of ‘surfer's ear’ in Cornish surfers
Authors: Attlmayr B , Smith I M
Published: March 2015

Objectives:

To establish the prevalence of external auditory canal exostosis (‘surfer's ear’) in Cornish surfers and investigate the potential impact on healthcare.

Method:

A total of 105 surfers were interviewed and otologically assessed on popular Cornish beaches. The degree of exostosis was graded as mild, moderate or severe.

Results:

The prevalence of external auditory canal exostosis was 63.81 per cent (33.33 per cent mild, 18.10 per cent moderate and 12.38 per cent severe). The degree of exostosis showed a significant correlation with absolute cold-water exposure time. However, there was individual variation in susceptibility to external auditory canal exostosis; 12 per cent of surfers with excessive cold-water exposure showed no exostosis. Regression analysis of surgical operations performed at the Royal Cornwall Hospital for exostosis over the last 13 years revealed an average increase of 1.23 operations per year, with an average of 13 cases per year over the last 9 years.

Conclusion:

Exostosis of the external auditory canal is common in Cornish surfers. There appears to be individual variation in terms of susceptibility to this condition. The possible reasons for this are discussed. The increase in the technically difficult surgical operations performed for exostosis is likely to have implications for health resources in the future.
The Importance of Understanding Each Other in Philosophy
Authors: Sunday Grève Sebastian
Published: March 2015

What is philosophy? How is it possible? This essay constitutes an attempt to contribute to a better understanding of what might be a good answer to either of these questions by reflecting on one particular characteristic of philosophy, specifically as it presents itself in the philosophical practice of Socrates, Plato and Wittgenstein. Throughout this essay, I conduct the systematic discussion of my topic in parallel lines with the historico-methodological comparison of my three main authors. First, I describe a certain neglected aspect of the Socratic method. Then, exploring the flipside of this aspect, I show that despite the fact that both Socrates and Wittgenstein understand their philosophical approaches as being essentially directed at the particular problems and modes of understanding that are unique to single individuals, they nevertheless aspire to philosophical understanding of the more ‘mundane’ kind that is directed at the world. Finally, interpreting parts of Plato's dialogues Phaedrus and Laches, I further develop my case for seeing the role of mutual understanding in philosophy as fundamentally twofold, being directed both at the individual and what they say (the word), and at things that are ‘external’ to this human relation at any particular moment of philosophical understanding (the world).
Did the Kyoto Protocol fail? An evaluation of the effect of the Kyoto Protocol on CO2emissions
Authors: Grunewald Nicole , Martinez-Zarzoso Inmaculada
Published: March 2015

In this paper, we empirically investigate the impact of the Kyoto Protocol on CO2emissions using a sample of 170 countries over the period 1992–2009. We propose the use of a difference-in-differences estimator with matching to address the endogeneity of the policy variable, namely Kyoto commitments. Countries are matched according to observable characteristics to create a suitable counterfactual. We correspondingly estimate a panel data model for the whole sample and the matched sample and compare the results to those obtained using an instrumental variable approach. The main results indicate that Kyoto Protocol commitments have a measurable reducing effect on CO2emissions, indicating that a treaty often deemed a ‘failure’ may in fact be producing some non-negligible effects for those who signed it.
DACH1 inhibits SNAI1-mediated epithelial–mesenchymal transition and represses breast carcinoma metastasis
Authors: Zhao F , Wang M , Li S , Bai X , Bi H , Liu Y , Ao X , Jia Z , Wu H
Published: March 2015

Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) has a major role in cancer progression and metastasis. However, the specific mechanism of transcriptional repression involved in this process remains largely unknown. Dachshund homologue 1 (DACH1) expression is lost in invasive breast cancer with poor prognosis, and the role of DACH1 in regulating breast cancer metastasis is poorly understood. In this study, significant correlation between the expression of DACH1 and the morphology of breast cancer cells was observed. Subsequent investigation into the relationship between DACH1 and EMT showed that overexpression of DACH1 in ZR-75-30 cells induced a shift towards epithelial morphology and cell–cell adhesion, as well as increased the expression of the epithelial marker E-cadherin and suppressed cell migration and invasion. In contrast, silencing DACH1 in MCF-7 and T47D cells disrupted the epithelial morphology and cell–cell contact, reduced the expression of E-cadherin, and induced cell migration and invasion. DACH1 also specifically interacted with SNAI1, but not SNAI2, to form a complex, which could bind to the E-box on the E-cadherin promoter in an SNAI1-dependent manner. DACH1 inhibited the transcriptional activity of SNAI1, leading to the activation of E-cadherin in breast cancer cells. Furthermore, the level of DACH1 also correlated with the extent of metastasis in a mouse model. DACH1 overexpression significantly decreased the metastasis and growth of 4T1/Luc cells in BALB/c mice. Analysis of tissue samples taken from human breast cancers showed a significant correlation between the expression of DACH1 and E-cadherin in SNAI1-positive breast cancer. Collectively, our data identified a new mechanistic pathway for the regulation of EMT and metastasis of breast cancer cells, one that is based on the regulation of E-cadherin expression by direct DACH1–SNAI1 interaction.
Direct in situ observation of metallic glass deformation by real-time nano-scale indentation
Authors: Gu Lin , Xu Limei , Zhang Qingsheng , Pan Deng , Chen Na , Louzguine-Luzgin Dmitri V. , Yao Ke-Fu , Wang Weihua , Ikuhara Yuichi
Published: March 2015

A common understanding of plastic deformation of metallic glasses (MGs) at room temperature is that such deformation occurs via the formation of runaway shear bands that usually lead to catastrophic failure of MGs. Here we demonstrate that inhomogeneous plastic flow at nanoscale can evolve in a well-controlled manner without further developing of shear bands. It is suggested that the sample undergoes an elasto-plastic transition in terms of quasi steady-state localized shearing. During this transition, embryonic shear localization (ESL) propagates with a very slow velocity of order of ~1 nm/s without the formation of a hot matured shear band. This finding further advances our understanding of the microscopic deformation process associated with the elasto-plastic transition and may shed light on the theoretical development of shear deformation in MGs.
Tailoring surface phase transition and magnetic behaviors in BiFeO3 via doping engineering
Authors: Yan Feng , Xing Guozhong , Wang Rongming , Li Lin
Published: March 2015

The charge-spin interactions in multiferroic materials (e.g., BiFeO3) have attracted enormous attention due to their high potential for next generation information electronics. However, the weak and deficient manipulation of charge-spin coupling notoriously limits their commercial applications. To tailor the spontaneous charge and the spin orientation synergistically in BiFeO3 (BFO), in this report, the 3d element of Mn doping engineering is employed and unveils the variation of surface phase transition and magnetic behaviors by introducing chemical strain. The spontaneous ferroelectric response and the corresponding domain structures, magnetic behaviors and spin dynamics in Mn-doped BFO ceramics have been investigated systematically. Both the surface phase transition and magnetization were enhanced in BFO via Mn doping. The interaction between the spontaneous polarization charge and magnetic spin reorientation in Mn-doped BFO are discussed in detail. Moreover, our extensive electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) results demonstrate that the 3d dopant plays a paramount role in the surface phase transition, which provides an alternative route to tune the charge-spin interactions in multiferroic materials.
Rational stabilization of complex proteins: a divide and combine approach
Authors: Lamazares Emilio , Clemente Isabel , Bueno Marta , Velázquez-Campoy Adrián , Sancho Javier
Published: March 2015

Increasing the thermostability of proteins is often crucial for their successful use as analytic, synthetic or therapeutic tools. Most rational thermostabilization strategies were developed on small two-state proteins and, unsurprisingly, they tend to fail when applied to the much more abundant, larger, non-fully cooperative proteins. We show that the key to stabilize the latter is to know the regions of lower stability. To prove it, we have engineered apoflavodoxin, a non-fully cooperative protein on which previous thermostabilizing attempts had failed. We use a step-wise combination of structure-based, rationally-designed, stabilizing mutations confined to the less stable structural region and obtain variants that, according to their van't Hoff to calorimetric enthalpy ratios, exhibit fully-cooperative thermal unfolding with a melting temperature of 75°C, 32 degrees above the lower melting temperature of the non-cooperative wild type protein. The ideas introduced here may also be useful for the thermostabilization of complex proteins through formulation or using specific stabilizing ligands (e.g. pharmacological chaperones).
Light Illuminated α−Fe2O3/Pt Nanoparticles as Water Activation Agent for Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting
Authors: Li Xiaodong , Wang Zhi , Zhang Zemin , Chen Lulu , Cheng Jianli , Ni Wei , Wang Bin , Xie Erqing
Published: March 2015

The photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting is hampered by strong bonds of H2O molecules and low ionic conductivity of pure water. The photocatalysts dispersed in pure water can serve as a water activation agent, which provides an alternative pathway to overcome such limitations. Here we report that the light illuminated α−Fe2O3/Pt nanoparticles may produce a reservoir of reactive intermediates including H2O2, ·OH, OH− and H+ capable of promoting the pure water reduction/oxidation half−reactions at cathode and highly photocatalytic−active TiO2/In2S3/AgInS2 photoanode, respectively. Remarkable photocurrent enhancement has been obtained with α−Fe2O3/Pt as water activation agent. The use of α−Fe2O3/Pt to promote the reactivity of pure water represents a new paradigm for reproducible hydrogen fuel provision by PEC water splitting, allowing efficient splitting of pure water without adding of corrosive chemicals or sacrificial agent.
Plant community composition determines the strength of top-down control in a soil food web motif
Authors: Thakur Madhav Prakash , Eisenhauer Nico
Published: March 2015

Top-down control of prey by predators are magnified in productive ecosystems due to higher sustenance of prey communities. In soil micro-arthropod food webs, plant communities regulate the availability of basal resources like soil microbial biomass. Mixed plant communities are often associated with higher microbial biomass than monocultures. Therefore, top-down control is expected to be higher in soil food webs of mixed plant communities. Moreover, higher predator densities can increase the suppression of prey, which can induce interactive effects between predator densities and plant community composition on prey populations. Here, we tested the effects of predator density (predatory mites) on prey populations (Collembola) in monoculture and mixed plant communities. We hypothesized that top-down control would increase with predator density but only in the mixed plant community. Our results revealed two contrasting patterns of top-down control: stronger top-down control of prey communities in the mixed plant community, but weaker top-down control in plant monocultures in high predator density treatments. As expected, higher microbial community biomass in the mixed plant community sustained sufficiently high prey populations to support high predator density. Our results highlight the roles of plant community composition and predator densities in regulating top-down control of prey in soil food webs.
Determination of Base Binding Strength and Base Stacking Interaction of DNA Duplex Using Atomic Force Microscope
Authors: Zhang Tian-biao , Zhang Chang-lin , Dong Zai-li , Guan Yi-fu
Published: March 2015

As one of the most crucial properties of DNA, the structural stability and the mechanical strength are attracting a great attention. Here, we take advantage of high force resolution and high special resolution of Atom Force Microscope and investigate the mechanical force of DNA duplexes. To evaluate the base pair hydrogen bond strength and base stacking force in DNA strands, we designed two modes (unzipping and stretching) for the measurement rupture forces. Employing k-means clustering algorithm, the ruptured force are clustered and the mean values are estimated. We assessed the influence of experimental parameters and performed the force evaluation for DNA duplexes of pure dG/dC and dA/dT base pairs. The base binding strength of single dG/dC and single dA/dT were estimated to be 20.0 ± 0.2 pN and 14.0 ± 0.3 pN, respectively and the base stacking interaction was estimated to be 2.0 ± 0.1 pN. Our results provide valuable information about the quantitative evaluation of the mechanical properties of the DNA duplexes.
Magnetic bubblecade memory based on chiral domain walls
Authors: Moon Kyoung-Woong , Kim Duck-Ho , Yoo Sang-Cheol , Je Soong-Geun , Chun Byong Sun , Kim Wondong , Min Byoung-Chul , Hwang Chanyong , Choe Sug-Bong
Published: March 2015

Unidirectional motion of magnetic domain walls is the key concept underlying next-generation domain-wall-mediated memory and logic devices. Such motion has been achieved either by injecting large electric currents into nanowires or by employing domain-wall tension induced by sophisticated structural modulation. Herein, we demonstrate a new scheme without any current injection or structural modulation. This scheme utilizes the recently discovered chiral domain walls, which exhibit asymmetry in their speed with respect to magnetic fields. Because of this asymmetry, an alternating magnetic field results in the coherent motion of the domain walls in one direction. Such coherent unidirectional motion is achieved even for an array of magnetic bubble domains, enabling the design of a new device prototype—magnetic bubblecade memory—with two-dimensional data-storage capability.
Photon hopping and nanowire based hybrid plasmonic waveguide and ring-resonator
Authors: Gu Zhiyuan , Liu Shuai , Sun Shang , Wang Kaiyang , Lyu Quan , Xiao Shumin , Song Qinghai
Published: March 2015

Nanowire based hybrid plasmonic structure plays an important role in achieving nanodevices, especially for the wide band-gap materials. However, the conventional schemes of nanowire based devices such as nano-resonators are usually isolated from the integrated nano-network and have extremely low quality (Q) factors. Here we demonstrate the transmission of waves across a gap in hybrid plasmonic waveguide, which is termed as “photon hopping”. Based on the photon hopping, we show that the emissions from nanodevices can be efficiently collected and conducted by additional nanowires. The collection ratio can be higher than 50% for a wide range of separation distance, transverse shift and tilt. Moreover, we have also explored the possibility of improving performances of individual devices by nano-manipulating the nanowire to a pseudo-ring. Our calculations show that both Q factor and Purcell factor have been increased by more than an order of magnitude. We believe that our researches will be essential to forming nanolasers and the following nano-networks.
Solution-based nanosensors for in-field detection with the naked eye
Authors: Paterson S. , de la Rica R.
Published: March 2015

Nanomaterials are revolutionising analytical applications with low-cost tests that enable detecting a target molecule in a few steps and with the naked eye.
Covalently conjugated transforming growth factor-β1 in modular chitosan hydrogels for the effective treatment of articular cartilage defects
Authors: Choi Bogyu , Kim Soyon , Fan Jiabing , Kowalski Tomasz , Petrigliano Frank , Evseenko Denis , Lee Min
Published: March 2015

We developed strategies to stabilize TGF-β1 signaling in visible blue-light inducible chitosan hydrogel systems for specific use in cartilage regeneration.
Fucosylated chondroitin sulphate from Cusumaria frondosa mitigates hepatic endoplasmic reticulum stress and inflammation in insulin resistant mice
Authors: Li Shijie , Jiang Wei , Hu Shiwei , Song Wendong , Ji Lili , Wang Yaning , Cai Lu
Published: March 2015

Cf-CHS mitigates hepatic endoplasmic reticulum stress and inflammation.
Rational design of capillary-driven flows for paper-based microfluidics
Authors: Elizalde Emanuel , Urteaga Raúl , Berli Claudio L. A.
Published: March 2015

We present a tool that allows one to determine the cross-sectional profile required for a programmed liquid front velocity or flow rate during lateral imbibition in paper substrates. New regimes can be designed, i.e. constant liquid front velocity.
Optimal consistency in microRNA expression analysis using reference-gene-based normalization
Authors: Wang Xi , Gardiner Erin J. , Cairns Murray J.
Published: March 2015

Reference gene-based normalization of expression profiles secures consistent differential expression analysis between samples of different phenotypes or biological conditions, and facilitates comparison between experimental batches.
Aligned silicon nanofins via the directed self-assembly of PS-b-P4VP block copolymer and metal oxide enhanced pattern transfer
Authors: Cummins Cian , Gangnaik Anushka , Kelly Roisin A. , Borah Dipu , O'Connell John , Petkov Nikolay , Georgiev Yordan M. , Holmes Justin D. , Morris Michael A.
Published: March 2015

A strategy combining graphoepitaxy and a metal oxide enhanced PS-b-P4VP BCP is utilized for generating aligned Si nanofins with 10 nm feature sizes.
Combining a loop-stem aptamer sequence with methylene blue: a simple assay for thrombin detection by resonance light scattering technique
Authors: Huang Xiaopeng , Li Yuqin , Huang Xiang , Chen Yaowen , Gao Wenhua
Published: March 2015

Schematic illustration of the RLS aptasensor for selective detection of human thrombin.
Preparation and characterization of functionalized silica spheres for removal of Cu(ii), Pb(ii), Cr(vi) and Cd(ii) from aqueous solutions
Authors: Zhu Zhen
Published: March 2015

Functionalized silica spheres (SMS) with mesoporous structure were fabricated through a facile and environmentally benign route, and exhibited remarkable removal efficiency for metal ions from aqueous solutions.
Large disk electrodes of Ti/TiO2-nanotubes/PbO2for environmental applications
Authors: Chianca de Moura Dayanne , Cerro-López Mónica , Quiroz Marco Antonio , Ribeiro da Silva Djalma , Martínez-Huitle Carlos Alberto
Published: March 2015

Large disk electrodes of Ti/TiO2-nanotubes/PbO2(65 cm2of geometrical area) were successfully synthesized by anodization and electrodeposition procedures.
Synthesis of magnetic graphene oxide-containing nanocomposite hydrogels for adsorption of crystal violet from aqueous solution
Authors: Pourjavadi Ali , Nazari Mojtaba , Hosseini Seyed Hassan
Published: March 2015

Magnetic nanocomposite hydrogels containing different amounts of graphene oxide were synthesized and characterized by FTIR, XRD, TGA, SEM, TEM, VSM and UV-vis spectroscopy.
Perovskite solar cells: film formation and properties
Authors: Song Tze-Bin , Chen Qi , Zhou Huanping , Jiang Chengyang , Wang Hsin-Hua , (Michael) Yang Yang , Liu Yongsheng , You Jingbi , Yang Yang
Published: March 2015

Perovskite solar cells have received considerable attention in recent years as a promising material capable of developing high performance photovoltaic devices at a low cost.
Enhanced performance in hybrid perovskite solar cell by modification with spinel lithium titanate
Authors: Li Jiangwei , Li Wenzhe , Dong Haopeng , Li Nan , Guo Xudong , Wang Liduo
Published: March 2015

Spinel lithium titanate (LTO) was used as a modification material at the perovskite-sensitized TiO2/HTL interface, acting as a Li+separator to prevent Li+intercalation into TiO2and reducing carrier recombination.
l-Histidine-based organoclays for the storage and release of therapeutic nitric oxide
Authors: Fernandes Ana C. , Pinto Moisés L. , Antunes Fernando , Pires João
Published: March 2015

Despite its toxicity, in low concentrations, nitric oxide (NO) is a small endogenous molecule with a particularly important role in the regulation of several biochemical pathways of the human body.
A reactive probe for Cu2+ based on the ESIPT mechanism and its application in live-cell imaging
Authors: Yang Chengyu , Chen Yu , Wu Kai , Wei Tin , Wang Jinglu , Zhang Shishen , Han Yifeng
Published: March 2015

A new excited-state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) based fluorescence “turn-on” chemodosimeter for selective and sensitive detection of Cu2+ by the copper-induced hydrolysis reaction has been reported.
A novel colorimetric sensor based on a diarylethene derivative for selective detection of Cu(ii)
Authors: Cui Shiqiang , Pu Shouzhi , Dai Yanfeng
Published: March 2015

A novel photochromic diarylethene derivative with a di-2-picolylamine unit and a hydroxyl group has been designed and synthesized for the first time. The selective interaction of its closed-ring isomers with Cu2+ions was investigated systematically. The results indicated that the diarylethene derivative could be used as a colorimetric sensor for the selective recognition of Cu2+ions.
A novel exonuclease III-aided amplification assay based on a graphene platform for sensitive detection of adenosine triphosphate
Authors: Wen Changchun , Huang Yong , Tian Jianniao , Hu Kun , Pan Li , Zhao Shulin
Published: March 2015

An exonuclease III-aided amplification assay based on a graphene platform was developed for sensitive detection of adenosine triphosphate.
A simple PCR-based fluorometric system for detection of mutant fusion DNAs using a quencher-free fluorescent DNA probe and graphene oxide
Authors: Roh Kyoungmin , Kim Dong-Min , Lee Eun Hee , Kim Hyoseon , Park Hyung Soon , Jang Ja-Hyun , Hwang Sang-Hyun , Kim Dong-Eun
Published: March 2015

We propose a facile fluorometric system for detection of gene mutations using graphene oxide (GO).
Asphaltene detection using surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS)
Authors: Alabi O. O. , Edilbi A. N. F. , Brolly C. , Muirhead D. , Parnell J. , Stacey R. , Bowden S. A.
Published: March 2015

Surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy using a gold substrate and excitation at 514 nm can detect sub parts per million quantities of asphaltene and thereby petroleum.
Synthesis of bradyrhizose, a unique inositol-fused monosaccharide relevant to a Nod-factor independent nitrogen fixation
Authors: Li Wei , Silipo Alba , Molinaro Antonio , Yu Biao
Published: March 2015

Bradyrhizose, a unique C10 monosaccharide relevant to a Nod-factor independent nitrogen-fixing symbiosis, was synthesized.
Pyrene fused perylene diimides: synthesis, characterization and applications in organic field-effect transistors and optical limiting with high performance
Authors: Zhan Xuejun , Zhang Ji , Tang Sheng , Lin Yuxuan , Zhao Min , Yang Jie , Zhang Hao-Li , Peng Qian , Yu Gui , Li Zhen
Published: March 2015

Pyrene fused PDI derivatives are unprecedentedly designed, with the bilateral one possessing a high mobility up to 1.13 cm2 V−1 s−1.
Locked-flavylium fluorescent dyes with tunable emission wavelengths based on intramolecular charge transfer for multi-color ratiometric fluorescence imaging
Authors: Chen Hua , Lin Weiying , Jiang Wenqing , Dong Baoli , Cui Haijun , Tang Yonghe
Published: March 2015

A new class of locked-flavylium fluorophores with tunable emission wavelengths based on intramolecular charge transfer were designed, synthesized, and evaluated.
Periodic and incommensurately modulated phases in a (2-methylimidazolium)tetraiodobismuthate(iii) thermochromic organic–inorganic hybrid
Authors: Gągor A. , Węcławik M. , Bondzior B. , Jakubas R.
Published: March 2015

Incommensurately modulated crystal structure of a (2-methylimidazolium)tetraiodobismuthate(iii) thermochromic organic–inorganic hybrid.
Novel mixed 1D–2D lanthanide coordination polymers based on p-sulfonatocalix[4]arene and 4,4′-bipyridine-N,N′-dioxide where p-sulfonatocalix[4]arene acts as a guest
Authors: Husain Ahmad , Oliver Clive L.
Published: March 2015

Two novel mixed 1D–2D coordination polymers based on 2D [Ln(4,4′-bpdo)2(NO3)2(H2O)2]+n sheets and 1D [Ln2(4,4′-bpdo)2(C4AS)(NO3)(H2O)9]n chains (Ln = Sm for 1 and Ln = Nd for 2) sustained by π⋯π interactions and lattice water facilitated hydrogen bonds have been established.
A pulsed uniform Laval expansion coupled with single photon ionization and mass spectrometric detection for the study of large molecular aggregates
Authors: Schläppi Bernhard , Litman Jessica H. , Ferreiro Jorge J. , Stapfer David , Signorell Ruth
Published: March 2015

The combination of Laval expansions with single photon VUV ionization and linear time of flight mass spectrometry allows one to study weakly-bound molecular aggregates under equilibrium conditions.
Structural and defect chemistry guidelines for Sr(V,Nb)O3-based SOFC anode materials
Authors: Macías J. , Yaremchenko A. A. , Fagg D. P. , Frade J. R.
Published: March 2015

Substitution of Nb into SrVO3 is demonstrated to expand the stability domain of the cubic perovskite phase and to suppress unfavorable thermochemical expansion, while preserving sufficiently high electronic conductivity required for SOFC anode materials.
Ab initio and anion photoelectron study of AunRhm (n = 1–7, m = 1–2) clusters
Authors: Buendía Fernando , Beltrán Marcela R. , Zhang Xinxing , Liu Gaoxiang , Buytendyk Allyson , Bowen Kit
Published: March 2015

Anion photoelectron spectroscopy and DFT calculations study on AunRhm (n = 1–7 and m = 1–2). PES spectra, vertical and adiabatic detachment energies, are compared. The characteristic planarity for gold clusters is preserved for many of the bimetallic clusters.
In situ strain evolution during a disconnection event in a battery nanoparticle
Authors: Ulvestad Andrew , Clark Jesse N. , Singer Andrej , Vine David , Cho H. M. , Harder Ross , Meng Ying Shirley , Shpyrko Oleg G.
Published: March 2015

Disconnection of active material is a leading cause of battery degradation. X-ray imaging suggests the formation of an interphase layer on a cathode nanoparticle leads to disconnection.
Nature's lessons in design: nanomachines to scaffold, remodel and shape membrane compartments
Authors: Beales Paul A. , Ciani Barbara , Cleasby Alexa J.
Published: March 2015

Our understanding of the membrane sculpting capabilities of proteins from experimental model systems could be used to construct functional compartmentalised architectures for the engineering of synthetic cells.
Combining Raman and infrared spectroscopy as a powerful tool for the structural elucidation of cyclodextrin-based polymeric hydrogels
Authors: Venuti V. , Rossi B. , D'Amico F. , Mele A. , Castiglione F. , Punta C. , Melone L. , Crupi V. , Majolino D. , Trotta F. , Gessini A. , Masciovecchio C.
Published: March 2015

UV Raman spectroscopy and infrared spectroscopy have been efficiently implemented for the structural and dynamic elucidation of cyclodextrin-based polymeric hydrogels.
Strong field laser control of photochemistry
Authors: Solá Ignacio R. , González-Vázquez Jesús , de Nalda Rebeca , Bañares Luis
Published: March 2015

Intense ultrafast laser light is used as an additional reagent for steering photochemical reactions by dressing the potential surfaces where the atoms move.
Photoluminescence performance enhancement of ZnO/MgO heterostructured nanowires and their applications in ultraviolet laser diodes
Authors: Shi Zhi-Feng , Zhang Yuan-Tao , Cui Xi-Jun , Zhuang Shi-Wei , Wu Bin , Chu Xian-Wei , Dong Xin , Zhang Bao-Lin , Du Guo-Tong
Published: March 2015

An ultralow threshold random lasing with a good temperature tolerance has been realized in coaxial ZnO/MgO heterostructured nanowires.
Synthesis, characterization and theoretical studies of nonlinear optical crystal Sr2B5O9(OH)·H2O
Authors: Zhang Fangyuan , Zhang Fangfang , Qun Jing , Pan Shilie , Yang Zhihua , Jia Dianzeng
Published: March 2015

Sr2B5O9(OH)·H2O has a large SHG effect, a wide transparency window, moderate birefringence, high stability and good growth habit. Theoretical analyses verify the dominating contributions of the borate groups and the distinct contributions of the alkaline-earth cations and OH groups to the SHG effect.
Hidden photoinduced reactivity of the blue fluorescent protein mKalama1
Authors: Vegh Russell B. , Bloch Dmitry A. , Bommarius Andreas S. , Verkhovsky Michael , Pletnev Sergei , Iwaï Hideo , Bochenkova Anastasia V. , Solntsev Kyril M.
Published: March 2015

We report a complete photocycle of the blue fluorescent protein exhibiting two delayed branches coupled to hidden proton transfer events.
Electronic structures and current conductivities of B, C, N and F defects in amorphous titanium dioxide
Authors: Pham Hieu H. , Wang Lin-Wang
Published: March 2015

Energetics and charge conductivities of defect states in amorphous titanium dioxide induced by second-row elements (B, C, N and F doping) were investigated by DFT calculations and Marcus theory.
p/n-Polarity of thiophene oligomers in photovoltaic cells: role of molecular vs. supramolecular properties
Authors: Ghosh Tanwistha , Gopal Anesh , Saeki Akinori , Seki Shu , Nair Vijayakumar C.
Published: March 2015

The effect of molecular and supramolecular properties on the p/n-polarity of two thiophene oligomers in bulk heterojunction solar cells is described.
Triphenylene-based tris-N-heterocyclic stannylenes
Authors: Hsu Chen-Yuan , Chan Li-Wei , Lee Gene-Hsiang , Peng Shie-Ming , Chiu Ching-Wen
Published: March 2015

Two planar tridentate N-heterocyclic stannylenes synthesized from the corresponding 2,3,6,7,10,11-hexaamino-triphenylene and Sn[N(TMS)2]2 are reported.
ZnO nanowire-immobilized paper matrices for visible light-induced antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli
Authors: Chauhan Indu , Aggrawal Sudiksha , Mohanty Paritosh
Published: March 2015

ZnO nanowire-immobilized paper matrices were made by a single-step hydrothermal method which killE. coliunder visible light.
Interpreting equilibrium-conductivity and conductivity-relaxation measurements to establish thermodynamic and transport properties for multiple charged defect conducting ceramics
Authors: Zhu Huayang , Ricote Sandrine , Coors W. Grover , Kee Robert J.
Published: March 2015

A model-based interpretation of measured equilibrium conductivity and conductivity relaxation is developed to establish thermodynamic, transport, and kinetics parameters for multiple charged defect conducting (MCDC) ceramic materials. The present study focuses on 10% yttrium-doped barium zirconate (BZY10). In principle, using the Nernst–Einstein relationship, equilibrium conductivity measurements are sufficient to establish thermodynamic and transport properties. However, in practice it is difficult to establish unique sets of properties using equilibrium conductivity alone. Combining equilibrium and conductivity-relaxation measurements serves to significantly improve the quantitative fidelity of the derived material properties. The models are developed using a Nernst–Planck–Poisson (NPP) formulation, which enables the quantitative representation of conductivity relaxations caused by very large changes in oxygen partial pressure.
The use of ultrasonic cavitation for near-surface structuring of robust and low-cost AlNi catalysts for hydrogen production
Authors: Cherepanov P. V. , Melnyk I. , Skorb E. V. , Fratzl P. , Zolotoyabko E. , Dubrovinskaia N. , Dubrovinsky L. , Avadhut Y. S. , Senker J. , Leppert L. , Kümmel S. , Andreeva D. V.
Published: March 2015

Ultrasonically induced shock waves stimulate intensive interparticle collisions in suspensions and create large local temperature gradients in AlNi particles.
Large-scale, low-cost synthesis of monodispersed gold nanorods using a gemini surfactant
Authors: Xu Yong , Zhao Yang , Chen Lei , Wang Xuchun , Sun Jianxia , Wu Haihua , Bao Feng , Fan Jian , Zhang Qiao
Published: March 2015

We demonstrate a large-scale and low-cost synthesis of monodispersed gold nanorods by using a gemini surfactant, in which the cost can be reduced by 90% compared with the traditional protocols.
Multi-modular, tris(triphenylamine) zinc porphyrin–zinc phthalocyanine–fullerene conjugate as a broadband capturing, charge stabilizing, photosynthetic ‘antenna-reaction center’ mimic
Authors: KC Chandra B. , Lim Gary N. , D'Souza Francis
Published: March 2015

Charge stabilization as a result of electron transfer followed by a hole-shift mechanism is demonstrated in a supramolecular multi-modular donor–acceptor assembly.
Color generationviasubwavelength plasmonic nanostructures
Authors: Gu Yinghong , Zhang Lei , Yang Joel K. W. , Yeo Swee Ping , Qiu Cheng-Wei
Published: March 2015

Recent developments in color filtering and display technologies have focused predominantly on high resolution, color vibrancy, high efficiency, and slim dimensions.
Positively-charged reduced graphene oxide as an adhesion promoter for preparing a highly-stable silver nanowire film
Authors: Sun Qijun , Lee Seong Jun , Kang Hyungseok , Gim Yuseong , Park Ho Seok , Cho Jeong Ho
Published: March 2015

An ultrathin conductive adhesion promoter using positively charged reduced graphene oxide (rGO-NH3+) has been demonstrated for preparing highly stable AgNW transparent electrodes.
A light-driven supramolecular nanowire actuator
Authors: Lee Junho , Oh Seungwhan , Pyo Jaeyeon , Kim Jong-Man , Je Jung Ho
Published: March 2015

Single light-driven molecular nanowire actuator is first developed that employs the azobenzene-containing tris(4-((E)-phenyldiazenyl)phenyl)-benzene-1,3,5-tricarboxamide (Azo-1). Single Azo-1 nanowires undergo bending upon irradiation with UV light that is reversed upon visible light irradiation, and the bending behavior follows first-order kinetics associated with azobenzene photoisomerization.
A dehydrogenative cross-coupling reaction between aromatic aldehydes or ketones and dialkyl H-phosphonates for formyl or acylphenylphosphonates
Authors: Huang Xing-Fen , Wu Qing-Lai , He Jian-Shi , Huang Zhi-Zhen
Published: March 2015

A novel DCC reaction between aromatic aldehydes or ketones and H-phosphonates has been developed for the synthesis ofp-formyl orp-acylphenylphosphonates.
Oxidative deamination of azafulleroids into C60 by peracids
Authors: Ikuma Naohiko , Fujioka Koichi , Misawa Yusuke , Kokubo Ken , Oshima Takumi
Published: March 2015

Oxidation of azafulleroids with peracids regenerate C60via oxidation of the bridged nitrogen, depending on the basicity of N-substituents.
Development of a functionally separated D–π-A fluorescent dye with a pyrazyl group as an electron-accepting group for dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Ooyama Yousuke , Uenaka Koji , Ohshita Joji
Published: March 2015

A functionally separated D–π-A dye OUK-3 with a pyrazyl group as an electron-accepting group and a carboxyl group as an anchoring group has been newly developed as a photosensitizer for dye-sensitized solar cells.
Evaluation of undoped and M-doped TiO2, where M = Sn, Fe, Ni/Nb, Zr, V, and Mn, for lithium-ion battery applications prepared by the molten-salt method
Authors: Reddy M. V. , Sharma Neeraj , Adams Stefan , Rao R. Prasada , Peterson Vanessa K. , Chowdari B. V. R.
Published: March 2015

Bare and Fe, Zr, Sn, Mn, V and Ni/Nb doped TiO2 prepared by the molten salt method, amongst these the Zr-doped sample exhibited a stable reversible capacity.
Improved percutaneous delivery of azelaic acid employing microemulsion as nanocarrier: formulation optimization, in vitro and in vivo evaluation
Authors: Ma Huixian , Yu Meng , Tan Fengping , Li Nan
Published: March 2015

Topical administration of an optimal microemulsion could effectively enhance the amount of azelaic acid in skin without causing skin irritation.
Bio-functionalized nanofibrous membranes as a hybrid platform for selective antibody recognition and capturing
Authors: Zhu Jing , Sun Gang
Published: March 2015

PVA-co-PE nanofibers were activatedviaversatile surface chemistries to achieve protein ligand couplings and subsequent antibody recognition and capturing.
Dehydrogenation of propane over PtSn/SBA-15 catalysts: effect of the amount of metal loading and state
Authors: Fan Xiaoqiang , Li Jianmei , Zhao Zhen , Wei Yuechang , Liu Jian , Duan Aijun , Jiang Guiyuan
Published: March 2015

The state and distribution of Pt and Sn change with different metal amounts, resulting in different catalytic performances on PtSn/SBA-15.
Continuous catalytic upgrading of fast pyrolysis oil using iron oxides in red mud
Authors: Kastner James R. , Hilten Roger , Weber Justin , McFarlane Andrew R. , Hargreaves Justin S. J. , Batra Vidya S.
Published: March 2015

A catalyst composed primarily of magnetite prepared from red mud via H2 reduction at 300 °C, simultaneously reduced acidity, allowed recovery of carbon, and generated upgradable intermediates from the aqueous fraction of fast pyrolysis oil in a “continuous” process.
The role of soft colloidal templates in the shape evolution of flower-like MgAl-LDH hierarchical microstructures
Authors: Zhang Jie , Xie Xiangli , Li Cunjun , Wang Hai , Wang Linjiang
Published: March 2015

Flower-like MgAl-SDS-LDH microstructures with a hierarchical porous structure with both large and small mesopores on their surface were synthesized by a self-assembly route, employing the anionic surfactant sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) as a soft template.
Evaluation of the corrosion protection properties of an epoxy coating containing sol–gel surface modified nano-zirconia on mild steel
Authors: Haddadi S. A. , Mahdavian M. , Karimi E.
Published: March 2015

In this study, corrosion protection of epoxy coating containing surface modified nano-zirconia was evaluated and compared to that containing unmodified nano-zirconia.
Expeditious synthesis of (±)-diethyl 2-alkyl- and 2-aryl-(3-oxoisoindolin-1-yl)phosphonates catalysed by OSU-6
Authors: Muddala Nagendra Prasad , Nammalwar Baskar , Bunce Richard A.
Published: March 2015

An efficient synthesis of (±)-diethyl 2-alkyl- and 2-aryl-(3-oxoisoindolin-1-yl)phosphonates is reportedviacondensation of 2-carboxybenzaldehyde with an amine and triethyl phosphite using OSU-6 as the catalyst.
New insights into the relationship between photocatalytic activity and TiO2–GR composites
Authors: Zhu Yanyan , Wang Yajun , Yao Wenqing , Zong Ruilong , Zhu Yongfa
Published: March 2015

Composited graphene cannot enhance the photocatalytic oxidation activity of TiO2, but can improve its photocatalytic reduction activity and photoelectrochemical properties.
Enhanced photocatalytic activities of Bi2WO6 by introducing Zn to replace Bi lattice sites: a first-principles study
Authors: Ren Fengzhu , Zhang Jihua , Wang Yuanxu
Published: March 2015

Zn doping can enhance the stereochemically active Bi lone pair effect at the top of the valence bands of Bi2WO6, which will lead to the decreasing of its band gap and the increasing of the density of electrons in its valence band maximum.
Novel N-doped porous carbon microspheres containing oxygen and phosphorus for CO2 absorbent and metal-free electrocatalysts
Authors: Wang Minghuan , Fu Jianwei , Zhu Jianhua , Yan Ya , Xu Qun
Published: March 2015

Novel carbon microspheres were synthesized from polyphosphazene and exhibit a considerable CO2 capture performance and good electrocatalytic activity for ORR.
Effect of fluorination on the performance of poly(thieno[2,3-f]benzofuran-co-benzothiadiazole) derivatives
Authors: Cui Ruili , Fan Ling , Yuan Jun , Jiang Lihui , Chen Guohui , Ding Yanhuai , Shen Ping , Li Yongfang , Zou Yingping
Published: March 2015

Three polymers named PTBFBT-0F, PTBFBT-1F, PTBFBT-2F were synthesized, and the effects of the different numbers of fluorine atoms on the photophysics and photovoltaic properties were investigated. A PCE of 5% with PTBFBT-2F as the donor was obtained.
A comparative study of optical nonlinearities of trans-A2B-corroles in solution and in aggregated state
Authors: Garai Antara , Kumar Samir , Sinha Woormileela , Purohit Chandra Shekhar , Das Ritwick , Kar Sanjib
Published: March 2015

The NLO properties of a series of FB corroles are studied in the solution as well as in the aggregated state (in the form of thin films).