bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeting mosquito FREP1 with a fungal metabolite blocks malaria transmission
Authors: Niu Guodong , Wang Bin , Zhang Genwei , King Jarrod B. , Cichewicz Robert H. , Li Jun
Published: October 2015

Inhibiting Plasmodium development in mosquitoes will block malaria transmission. Fibrinogen-related protein 1 (FREP1) is critical for parasite infection in Anopheles gambiae and facilitates Plasmodium invasion in mosquitoes through interacting with gametocytes and ookinetes. To test the hypothesis that small molecules that disrupt this interaction will prevent parasites from infecting mosquitoes, we developed an ELISA-based method to screen a fungal extract library. We obtained a candidate fungal extract of Aspergillus niger that inhibited the interaction between FREP1 and P. falciparum infected cells by about 92%. The inhibition specificity was confirmed by immunofluorescence assays. Notably, feeding mosquitoes with the candidate fungal extract significantly inhibited P. falciparum infection in the midgut without cytotoxicity or inhibition of the development of P. falciparum gametocytes or ookinetes. A bioactive natural product that prevents FREP1 from binding to gametocytes or ookinetes was isolated and identified as P-orlandin. Importantly, the nontoxic orlandin significantly reduced P. falciparum infection intensity in mosquitoes. Therefore, disruption of the interaction between FREP1 and parasites effectively reduces Plasmodium infection in mosquitoes. Targeting FREP1 with small molecules is thus an effective novel approach to block malaria transmission.
Ultra-high voltage electron microscopy of primitive algae illuminates 3D ultrastructures of the first photosynthetic eukaryote
Authors: Takahashi Toshiyuki , Nishida Tomoki , Saito Chieko , Yasuda Hidehiro , Nozaki Hisayoshi
Published: October 2015

A heterotrophic organism 1–2 billion years ago enslaved a cyanobacterium to become the first photosynthetic eukaryote and has diverged globally. The primary phototrophs, glaucophytes, are thought to retain ancestral features of the first photosynthetic eukaryote, but examining the protoplast ultrastructure has previously been problematic in the coccoid glaucophyteGlaucocystisdue to its thick cell wall. Here, we examined the three-dimensional (3D) ultrastructure in two divergent species ofGlaucocystisusing ultra-high voltage electron microscopy. Three-dimensional modelling ofGlaucocystiscells using electron tomography clearly showed that numerous, leaflet-like flattened vesicles are distributed throughout the protoplast periphery just underneath a single-layered plasma membrane. This 3D feature is essentially identical to that of another glaucophyte genusCyanophora, as well as the secondary phototrophs in Alveolata. Thus, the common ancestor of glaucophytes and/or the first photosynthetic eukaryote may have shown similar 3D structures.
Comparison of intra-ocular pressure changes with liquid or flat applanation interfaces in a femtosecond laser platform
Authors: Williams G. P. , Ang H. P. , George B. L. , Liu Y. C. , Peh G. , Izquierdo L. , Tan D. T. , Mehta J. S.
Published: October 2015

Cataract surgery is the most common surgical procedure and femtosecond laser assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) has gained increased popularity. FLACS requires the application of a suction device to stabilize the laser head and focus the laser beam accurately. This may cause a significant escalation in intra-ocular pressure (IOP), which poses potential risks for patients undergoing cataract surgery. In this study we aimed to assess the effect of the Ziemer LDV Z8 femtosecond cataract machine on IOP. We demonstrated through a porcine model that IOP was significantly higher with a flat interface but could be abrogated by reducing surgical compression and vacuum. Pressure was lower with a liquid interface and further altering angulation of the laser arm could reduce the IOP to 36 mmHg. A pilot series in patients showed comparable pressure rises with the porcine model (30 mmHg). These strategies may improve the safety profile in patients vulnerable to high pressure when employing FLACS with the Ziemer LDV Z8.
IL-1α is a DNA damage sensor linking genotoxic stress signaling to sterile inflammation and innate immunity
Authors: Cohen Idan , Rider Peleg , Vornov Elena , Tomas Martin , Tudor Cicerone , Wegner Mareike , Brondani Lydia , Freudenberg Marina , Mittler Gerhard , Ferrando-May Elisa , Dinarello Charles A. , Apte Ron N. , Schneider Robert
Published: October 2015

Environmental signals can be translated into chromatin changes, which alter gene expression. Here we report a novel concept that cells can signal chromatin damage from the nucleus back to the surrounding tissue through the cytokine interleukin-1alpha (IL-1α). Thus, in addition to its role as a danger signal, which occurs when the cytokine is passively released by cell necrosis, IL-1α could directly sense DNA damage and act as signal for genotoxic stress without loss of cell integrity. Here we demonstrate localization of the cytokine to DNA-damage sites and its subsequent secretion. Interestingly, its nucleo-cytosolic shuttling after DNA damage sensing is regulated by histone deacetylases (HDAC) and IL-1α acetylation. To demonstrate the physiological significance of this newly discovered mechanism, we used IL-1α knockout mice and show that IL-1α signaling after UV skin irradiation and DNA damage is important for triggering a sterile inflammatory cascade in vivo that contributes to efficient tissue repair and wound healing.
Identification of a FOXP3+CD3+CD56+ population with immunosuppressive function in cancer tissues of human hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Li Xiaofeng , Peng Jirun , Pang Yanli , Yu Sen , Yu Xin , Chen Pengcheng , Wang Wenzhen , Han Wenling , Zhang Jun , Yin Yanhui , Zhang Yu
Published: October 2015

The liver resident lymphoid population is featured by the presence of a large number of CD3+CD56+ cells referred as natural T cells. In human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients, the natural T cells were found to be sharply decreased in tumor (5.871 ± 3.553%) versus non-tumor (14.02 ± 6.151%) tissues. More intriguingly, a substantial fraction of the natural T cells (22.76 ± 18.61%) assumed FOXP3 expression. These FOXP3-expressing CD3+CD56+ cells lost the expression of IFN-γ and perforin, which are critical for the effector function of natural T cells. On the other hand, they acquired surface expression of CD25 and CTLA-4 typically found in regulatory T (Treg) cells. Consistent with the phenotypic conversion, they imposed an inhibitory effect on anti-CD3-induced proliferation of naive T cells. Further studies demonstrated that transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) could effectively induce FOXP3 expression in CD3+CD56+ cells and the cells were thus endowed with a potent immunosuppressive capacity. Finally, Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that the relative abundance of FOXP3-expressing CD3+CD56+ cells in tumor tissues was significantly correlated with the survival of HCC patients. In conclusion, the present study identified a new type of regulatory immune cells whose emergence in liver cancer tissues may contribute to tumor progression.
Identification of H2S3 and H2S produced by 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase in the brain
Authors: Kimura Yuka , Toyofuku Yukiko , Koike Shin , Shibuya Norihiro , Nagahara Noriyuki , Lefer David , Ogasawara Yuki , Kimura Hideo
Published: October 2015

Hydrogen polysulfides (H2Sn) have a higher number of sulfane sulfur atoms than hydrogen sulfide (H2S), which has various physiological roles. We recently found H2Sn in the brain. H2Sn induced some responses previously attributed to H2S but with much greater potency than H2S. However, the number of sulfur atoms in H2Sn and its producing enzyme were unknown. Here, we detected H2S3 and H2S, which were produced from 3-mercaptopyruvate (3 MP) by 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (3MST), in the brain. High performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection (LC-FL) and tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analyses showed that H2S3 and H2S were produced from 3 MP in the brain cells of wild-type mice but not 3MST knockout (3MST-KO) mice. Purified recombinant 3MST and lysates of COS cells expressing 3MST produced H2S3 from 3 MP, while those expressing defective 3MST mutants did not. H2S3 was localized in the cytosol of cells. H2S3 was also produced from H2S by 3MST and rhodanese. H2S2 was identified as a minor H2Sn and 3 MP did not affect the H2S5 level. The present study provides new insights into the physiology of H2S3 and H2S, as well as novel therapeutic targets for diseases in which these molecules are involved.
PLD1 participates in BDNF-induced signalling in cortical neurons
Authors: Ammar Mohamed Raafet , Thahouly Tamou , Hanauer André , Stegner David , Nieswandt Bernhard , Vitale Nicolas
Published: October 2015

The brain-derived neurotrophic factor BDNF plays a critical role in neuronal development and the induction of L-LTP at glutamatergic synapses in several brain regions. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying these BDNF effects have not been firmly established. Using in vitro cultures of cortical neurons from knockout mice for Pld1 and Rsk2, BDNF was observed to induce a rapid RSK2-dependent activation of PLD and to stimulate BDNF ERK1/2-CREB and mTor-S6K signalling pathways, but these effects were greatly reduced in Pld1−/− neurons. Furthermore, phospho-CREB did not accumulate in the nucleus, whereas overexpression of PLD1 amplified the BDNF-dependent nuclear recruitment of phospho-ERK1/2 and phospho-CREB. This BDNF retrograde signalling was prevented in cells silenced for the scaffolding protein PEA15, a protein which complexes with PLD1, ERK1/2 and RSK2 after BDNF treatment. Finally PLD1, ERK1/2 and RSK2 partially colocalized on endosomal structures, suggesting that these proteins are part of the molecular module responsible for BDNF signalling in cortical neurons.
Multicopper oxidase-1 is required for iron homeostasis in Malpighian tubules of Helicoverpa armigera
Authors: Liu Xiaoming , Sun Chengxian , Liu Xiaoguang , Yin Xinming , Wang Baohai , Du Mengfang , An Shiheng
Published: October 2015

Multicopper oxidases (MCOs) are enzymes that contain 10 conserved histidine residues and 1 cysteine residue. MCO1 has been extensively investigated in the midgut because this MCO is implicated in ascorbate oxidation, iron homeostasis and immune responses. However, information regarding the action of MCO1 in Malpighian tubules is limited. In this study, Helicoverpa armigera was used as a model to investigate the function of MCO1 in Malpighian tubules. Sequence analysis results revealed that HaMCO1 exhibits typical MCO characteristics, with 10 histidine and 1 cysteine residues for copper ion binding. HaMCO1 was also found to be highly abundant in Malpighian tubules. Temporal expression patterns indicated that HaMCO1 is mainly expressed during larval molting stages. Hormone treatments [the molting hormone 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) and juvenile hormone (JH)] revealed that 20E inhibits HaMCO1 transcript expression via its heterodimer receptor, which consists of ecdysone receptor (EcR) and ultraspiracle (USP) and that JH counteracts the action of 20E to activate HaMCO1 transcript expression via its intracellular receptor methoprene-tolerant (Met). HaMCO1 knockdown caused a significant decrease in iron accumulation and also significantly reduced transferrin and ferritin transcript expression. Therefore, HaMCO1 is coordinately regulated by 20E and JH and is required for iron homeostasis in Malpighian tubules.
Thermal surface free energy and stress of iron
Authors: Schönecker Stephan , Li Xiaoqing , Johansson Börje , Kwon Se Kyun , Vitos Levente
Published: October 2015

Absolute values of surface energy and surface stress of solids are hardly accessible by experiment. Here, we investigate the temperature dependence of both parameters for the (001) and (110) surface facets of body-centered cubic Fe from first-principles modeling taking into account vibrational, electronic and magnetic degrees of freedom. The monotonic decrease of the surface energies of both facets with increasing temperature is mostly due to lattice vibrations and magnetic disorder. The surface stresses exhibit nonmonotonic behaviors resulting in a strongly temperature dependent excess surface stress and surface stress anisotropy.
Differential levels of p75NTR ectodomain in CSF and blood in patients with Alzheimer’s disease: a novel diagnostic marker
Authors: Jiao S-S , Bu X-L , Liu Y-H , Wang Q-H , Liu C-H , Yao X-Q , Zhou X-F , Wang Y-J
Published: October 2015

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the primary cause of dementia in the elderly. The ectodomain of p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR-ECD) has been suggested to play important roles in regulating beta-amyloid (Aβ) deposition and in protecting neurons from the toxicity of soluble Aβ. However, whether and how the serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) levels of p75NTR-ECD change in patients with AD are not well documented. In the present study, we determined the concentrations of serum p75NTR-ECD in an AD group, a Parkinson disease group and a stroke group, as well as in a group of elderly controls without neurological disorders (EC). We also determined the levels of CSF p75NTR-ECD in a subset of the AD and EC groups. Our data showed that a distinct p75NTR-ECD profile characterized by a decreased CSF level and an increased serum level was present concomitantly with AD patients but not with other diseases. p75NTR-ECD levels in both the serum and CSF were strongly correlated with Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores and showed sound differential diagnostic value for AD. Moreover, when combining CSF Aβ42, CSF Aβ42/40, CSF ptau181 or CSF ptau181/Aβ42 with CSF p75NTR-ECD, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and diagnostic accuracies improved. These findings indicate that p75NTR-ECD can serve as a specific biomarker for AD and the determination of serum and CSF p75NTR-ECD levels is likely to be helpful in monitoring AD progression.
Right external globus pallidus changes are associated with altered causal awareness in youth with depression
Authors: Griffiths K R , Lagopoulos J , Hermens D F , Hickie I B , Balleine B W
Published: October 2015

Cognitive impairment is a functionally disabling feature of depression contributing to maladaptive decision-making, a loss of behavioral control and an increased disease burden. The ability to calculate the causal efficacy of ones actions in achieving specific goals is critical to normal decision-making and, in this study, we combined voxel-based morphometry (VBM), shape analysis and diffusion tensor tractography to investigate the relationship between cortical–basal ganglia structural integrity and such causal awareness in 43 young subjects with depression and 21 demographically similar healthy controls. Volumetric analysis determined a relationship between right pallidal size and sensitivity to the causal status of specific actions. More specifically, shape analysis identified dorsolateral surface vertices where an inward location was correlated with reduced levels of causal awareness. Probabilistic tractography revealed that affected parts of the pallidum were primarily connected with the striatum, dorsal thalamus and hippocampus. VBM did not reveal any whole-brain gray matter regions that correlated with causal awareness. We conclude that volumetric reduction within the indirect pathway involving the right dorsolateral pallidum is associated with reduced awareness of the causal efficacy of goal-directed actions in young depressed individuals. This causal awareness task allows for the identification of a functionally and biologically relevant subgroup to which more targeted cognitive interventions could be applied, potentially enhancing the long-term outcomes for these individuals.
Single-molecule observations of RNA–RNA kissing interactions in a DNA nanostructure
Authors: Takeuchi Yosuke , Endo Masayuki , Suzuki Yuki , Hidaka Kumi , Durand Guillaume , Dausse Eric , Toulmé Jean-Jacques , Sugiyama Hiroshi
Published: October 2015

Unique complex formation of RNA molecules through specific hairpin loop interaction was visualized in a DNA origami.
Self-sacrificial template-induced modulation of conjugated microporous polymer microcapsules and shape-dependent enhanced photothermal efficiency for ablation of cancer cells
Authors: Tan Jing , Wan Jiaxun , Guo Jia , Wang Changchun
Published: October 2015

Conjugated microporous polymer microcapsules synthesized by virtue of a self-sacrificial polymer template in one step exhibit a shape-dependent enhanced photothermal conversion efficiency for ablation of cancer cells.
Regioselective synthesis of multisubstituted isoquinolones and pyridones via Rh(iii)-catalyzed annulation reactions
Authors: Shi Liangliang , Yu Ke , Wang Baiquan
Published: October 2015

A mild and efficient Rh(iii)-catalyzed regioselective synthesis of isoquinolones and pyridones from N-methoxybenzamide or N-methoxymethacrylamide and diazo compounds has been developed, through tandem C–H activation, cyclization, and condensation.
Probing the nitrite and nitric oxide reductase activity of cbb3 oxidase: resonance Raman detection of a six-coordinate ferrous heme–nitrosyl species in the binuclear b3/CuB center
Authors: Loullis Andreas , Pinakoulaki Eftychia
Published: October 2015

We present resonance Raman and FTIR evidence for the reduction of nitrite to nitrous oxide by cbb3 oxidase through the formation of a ferrous six-coordinate heme b3–nitrosyl species.
Catalytic C–H bond functionalisation chemistry: the case for quasi-heterogeneous catalysis
Authors: Reay Alan J. , Fairlamb Ian J. S.
Published: October 2015

This feature article examines the potential of heterogeneous Pd species to mediate catalytic C–H bond functionalisation processes employing suitable substrates (e.g. aromatic/heteroaromatic compounds).
A composite catalyst of reduced black TiO2−x/CNT: a highly efficient counter electrode for ZnO-based dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Zhang Chunyang , Xie Yahong , Ma Junhong , Hu Jing , Zhang Cancan
Published: October 2015

A composite catalyst (reduced black TiO2−x/CNT) was synthesized through a simple sol–gel method and applied as a counter electrode in ZnO-based dye-sensitized solar cells. The resultant DSSCs achieved a PCE of 5.71%.
Coordination environments and π-conjugation in dense lithium coordination polymers
Authors: Tominaka Satoshi , Yeung Hamish H.-M. , Henke Sebastian , Cheetham Anthony K.
Published: October 2015

A weak relationship between the longest C–O bond in an anionic organic ligand and the shortest Li–O bond was found.
Investigation of field effects in a solid-state nanopore transistor
Authors: Youn Yong , Han Seungwu
Published: October 2015

In order to calculate ion currents through solid-state nanopore transistors realistically, we propose a computational model based on the Poisson–Nernst–Plank equation.
Impact of lifetime control on the threshold of quantum dot lasers
Authors: Iyer Veena Hariharan , Pandey Anshu
Published: October 2015

We discuss approaches that could lead to very low threshold continuous wave quantum dot lasers.
Efficient intersystem crossing using singly halogenated carbomethoxyphenyl porphyrins measured using delayed fluorescence, chemical quenching, and singlet oxygen emission
Authors: Marin Dawn M. , Payerpaj Sonia , Collier Graham S. , Ortiz Angy L. , Singh Gaurav , Jones Marcus , Walter Michael G.
Published: October 2015

Singly halogenated carbomethoxyphenylporphyrins show decreased singlet fluorescence lifetimes and increased rates of triplet excited state formation.
Ab initio energy loss spectra of Si and Ge nanowires
Authors: Palummo Maurizia , Hogan Conor , Ossicini Stefano
Published: October 2015

By means of parameter-free quantum-mechanical dielectric response calculations of thin Si and Ge nanowires we explain the presence of the low energy peaks observed in EELS-TEM experiments and predict an important nanowire diameter dependence of the volume plasmon peak due to quantum-confinement effects, which is consistent with the blue shift observed experimentally in thicker wires.
An introduction to the chemistry of graphene
Authors: Wang Xiluan , Shi Gaoquan
Published: October 2015

This perspective outlines the chemistry of graphene, including functionalization, doping, photochemistry, catalytic chemistry and supramolecular chemistry.
Plant-derived nanostructures: types and applications
Authors: Mohammadinejad Reza , Karimi Samaneh , Iravani Siavash , Varma Rajender S.
Published: October 2015

Significant recent developments in plant-derived nanostructures, their classes, and vital applications are discussed with insight into their use as bio-renewable, sustainable, and diversified resources for the production of useful nanostructures.
Highly selective hydrogenation and hydrogenolysis using a copper-doped porous metal oxide catalyst
Authors: Petitjean Laurene , Gagne Raphael , Beach Evan S. , Xiao Dequan , Anastas Paul T.
Published: October 2015

A copper-doped porous metal oxide catalyst in combination with hydrogen shows selective and quantitative hydrogenolysis of benzyl ketones and aldehydes, and hydrogenation of alkenes.
Accumulation and spatial distribution of arsenic and phosphorus in the fern Pityrogramma calomelanos evaluated by micro X-ray fluorescence spectrometry
Authors: Campos Naiara Viana , Bueno Guerra Marcelo Braga , Mello Jaime Wilson V. , Schaefer Carlos Ernesto G. R. , Krug Francisco José , Alves Elton E. N. , Azevedo Aristéa A.
Published: October 2015

μ-EDXRF is a strong analytical tool enabling the simultaneous mapping of As and P in the As-hyperaccumulator fern Pityrogramma calomelanos.
Polarization-dependent extraordinary optical transmission from upconversion nanoparticles
Authors: Wang Peng Hui , Salcedo Walter J. , Pichaandi Jothirmayanantham , van Veggel Frank C. J. M. , Brolo Alexandre G.
Published: October 2015

Enhanced upconversion (UC) emission was experimentally demonstrated using gold double antenna nanoparticles coupled to nanoslits in gold films.
The SPL7013 dendrimer destabilizes the HIV-1 gp120–CD4 complex
Authors: Nandy Bidisha , Saurabh Suman , Sahoo Anil Kumar , Dixit Narendra M. , Maiti Prabal K.
Published: October 2015

Steered MD and equilibrium energy calculations reveal that the SPL7013 dendrimer destabilizes the gp120–CD4 complex, potentially explaining its anti-HIV-1 activity.
Thermal energy harvesting near-infrared radiation and accessing low temperatures with plasmonic sensors
Authors: Karker Nicholas A. , Dharmalingam Gnanaprakash , Carpenter Michael A.
Published: October 2015

Near-infrared (NIR) thermal energy harvesting has been demonstrated for gold nanorods (AuNRs), allowing concentration dependent, ppm-level, gas detection of H2, CO, and NO2at 500 °C without using a white light source.
PEGylated Cu3BiS3 hollow nanospheres as a new photothermal agent for 980 nm-laser-driven photothermochemotherapy and a contrast agent for X-ray computed tomography imaging
Authors: Zhou Shu-Mei , Ma De-Kun , Zhang Sheng-Hui , Wang Wei , Chen Wei , Huang Shao-Ming , Yu Kang
Published: October 2015

Multifunctional PEGylated Cu3BiS3 hollow nanospheres were synthesized through a facile ethylene glycol-mediated solvothermal route.
Synthesis of a new β-amino acid with a 3-deoxy-l-ara furnaoside side chain: the influence of the side chain on the conformation of α/β-peptides
Authors: Sharma Gangavaram V. M. , Anjaiah Gonuguntla , Kanakaraju Marumudi , Sudhakar Bommeda , Chatterjee Deepak , Kunwar Ajit C.
Published: October 2015

The α/β-peptides from a new C-linked carbo β-amino acid, [(R)-β-Caa(da)], with a 3-deoxy-l-ara furanoside side chain, alternatingly with d-Ala, formed left-handed 11/19-helices.
Fluorescence and phosphorescence study of germanium–acetylene polymers and germa[N]pericyclynes
Authors: Tanimoto Hiroki , Nagao Tomohiko , Fujiwara Taro , Kakuta Takahiro , Tanaka Kazuo , Chujo Yoshiki , Kakiuchi Kiyomi
Published: October 2015

Synthesis and optical properties of skipped polyynes comprising germanium–acetylene units are presented.
Far beyond primary poly(vinylamine)s through free radical copolymerization and amide hydrolysis
Authors: Dréan Mathilde , Guégan Philippe , Jérôme Christine , Rieger Jutta , Debuigne Antoine
Published: October 2015

Copolymers bearing various amino groups of predictable compositions are made available through radical copolymerization followed by optimized amide hydrolysis.
One-step grafting of polymers to graphene oxide
Authors: Thomas Helen R. , Phillips Daniel J. , Wilson Neil R. , Gibson Matthew I. , Rourke Jonathan P.
Published: October 2015

Graphene oxide is functionalized by grafting poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) across its surface in a single reaction step to give a composite material with enhanced thermal stability and solubility.
David Sherrington commemorative issue
Authors: Cormack Peter A. G. , Haddleton David
Published: October 2015

Peter Cormack and David Haddleton introduce this David Sherrington commemorative issue for Polymer Chemistry.
Heteroatom-doped carbons: synthesis, chemistry and application in lithium/sulphur batteries
Authors: Zhang Sheng S.
Published: October 2015

Heteroatom-doped carbons (heteroatom = O, S, N or their mixtures) have exceptional ability in chemically adsorbing sulphur species and have important applications in lithium/sulphur batteries. This review highlights the synthesis and chemistry of these materials and discusses their applications and mechanisms in sulphur sequestration.
Cation deficiency effect on negative thermal expansion of ferroelectric PbTiO3
Authors: Peng Xin , Rong Yangchun , Fan Longlong , Lin Kun , Zhu He , Deng Jinxia , Chen Jun , Xing Xianran
Published: October 2015

This article describes a strong correlation between the spontaneous polarization and NTE features in 8% Pb2+ deficient PT (P92T), 2% Ti4+ deficient PT (PT98) and pure PbTiO3(PT) samples, which meets the mechanism of spontaneous volume ferroelectrostriction.
Facile synthesis of eggshell-stabilized erythromycin-based imprinted composites for recognition and separation applications
Authors: Zhu Yanzhuo , Xue Tianwen , Pan Jianming , Wei Xiao , Dai Jiangdong , Gao Lin , Yan Yongsheng
Published: October 2015

In this work, eggshell particles, an abundant source of waste, were found to be well suited to stabilize O/W Pickering emulsions, because the small amount of organic components in eggshell results in a near 90° contact angle θ.
Nano-Al2O3-based micro solid-phase filter membrane extraction for simultaneous determination of tartrazine and sunset yellow in food
Authors: Zhang Zhenzhen , Wang Lingling , Liu Xueyan , Zhang Danfeng , Zhang Lei , Li Qi
Published: October 2015

A new micro-solid-phase extraction method based on a prestructured filter membrane was developed to facilitate simultaneous analysis of tartrazine (TA) and sunset yellow (SY) with high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).
Effect of degree of reduction on the anode performance of reduced graphene oxide in Li-ion batteries
Authors: Kim Sujin , Park Gyutae , Sennu Palanichamy , Lee Seungjun , Choi Kwangrok , Oh Junghoon , Lee Yun-Sung , Park Sungjin
Published: October 2015

The reduced graphene oxide sample with the lowest degree of reduction delivers the highest anodic capacity and good durability in Li-ion batteries.
Orosomucoid binding induced amplification of inherent chirality of the immunosuppressant drug sirolimus
Authors: Zsila Ferenc
Published: October 2015

Orosomucoid binding provoked helical distortion of the triene moiety of sirolimus results in a new, intense CD band.
Synthesis and characterization of B–C polymer hollow microspheres from a new organodecaborane preceramic polymer
Authors: Zhang Xiaojuan , Li Jing , Cao Ke , Yi Yong , Yang Junxiao , Li Bo
Published: October 2015

A new poly(norbornenyldecaborane-co-hexadiene) (P(NB-co-DE)) copolymer as a kind of boron carbide preceramic polymer was synthesized by the ROMP reaction. And it was used to fabricate B–C polymer hollow microspheres by microencapsulation.
Enhancement of icephobic properties based on UV-curable fluorosilicone copolymer films
Authors: Li Xiaohui , Zhang Kaiqiang , Zhao Yunhui , Zhu Kongying , Yuan Xiaoyan
Published: October 2015

UV-curable fluorosilicone triblock methacrylate copolymer films were prepared for icephobic applications. Water droplets could rebound from the film surfaces at −15 °C due to their high receding contact angles, avoiding ice accretion.
Amines functionalized C60 as solid base catalysts for Knoevenagel condensation with high activity and stability
Authors: Sun Yongbin , Cao Changyan , Huang Peipei , Yang Shuliang , Song Weiguo
Published: October 2015

Amines functionalized C60 were prepared through a simple amination reaction of C60 with organic amines, and they showed high activity and stability for Knoevenagel condensation.
Design and synthesis of periodic mesoporous organosilica materials with a multi-compartment structure
Authors: Lin Chun Xiang Cynthia , Jambhrunkar Siddharth , Yuan Pei , Zhou Chun Hui Clayton , Zhao George Xiu Song
Published: October 2015

Multi-compartment periodic mesoporous organosilica materials show desirable properties as anticancer drug carrier with high loading capacity and slow release rate.
Heterogeneous Cu/OMS-2 as an efficient catalyst for the synthesis of tetrasubstituted 1,4-enediones and 4H-pyrido[1,2-a]-pyrimidin-4-ones
Authors: Zhang Jinqi , Meng Xu , Yu Chaoying , Chen Gexin , Zhao Peiqing
Published: October 2015

Copper supported on OMS-2: a heterogeneous catalyst Cu/OMS-2 was prepared for the synthesis of tetrasubstituted 1,4-enediones and 4H-pyrido[1,2-a]-pyrimidin-4-ones under the same conditions with air as the oxidant.
One-pot synthesis of high-molecular-weight aliphatic polycarbonates via melt transesterification of diphenyl carbonate and diols using Zn(OAc)2 as a catalyst
Authors: Wang Ziqing , Yang Xiangui , Liu Shaoying , Hu Jing , Zhang Hua , Wang Gongying
Published: October 2015

Aliphatic polycarbonates with Mw greater than 100 000 g mol−1 with satisfactory yield can be synthesized by one-pot melt transesterification of diphenyl carbonate with aliphatic diols at equimolar amounts using Zn(OAc)2 as a catalyst.
Micron-scale rod-like scattering particles for light trapping in nanostructured thin film solar cells
Authors: Byranvand M. Malekshahi , Taghavinia N. , Kharat A. Nemati , Dabirian A.
Published: October 2015

Micron-scale rod-like particles scatter light stronger than their spherical counterparts do; hence leading to a more efficient light trapping in solar cells.
The divergent effects of strong NHC donation in catalysis
Authors: Lummiss Justin A. M. , Higman Carolyn S. , Fyson Devon L. , McDonald Robert , Fogg Deryn E.
Published: October 2015

The inverse relationship between NHC donicity and catalyst initiation.
Promiscuous indolyl vinyl isonitrile synthases in the biogenesis and diversification of hapalindole-type alkaloids
Authors: Ittiamornkul Kuljira , Zhu Qin , Gkotsi Danai S. , Smith Duncan R. M. , Hillwig Matthew L. , Nightingale Nicole , Goss Rebecca J. M. , Liu Xinyu
Published: October 2015

Promiscuous cis-indolyl vinyl isonitrile biosynthetic pathway allowed the preparatively useful generation of nine halosubstituted antibiotic analogues with increased lipophilicity.
Highly flexible, conductive and catalytic Pt networks as transparent counter electrodes for wearable dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Zhou Ranran , Guo Wenxi , Yu Ruomeng , Pan Caofeng
Published: October 2015

We present a highly flexible dye-sensitized solar cell composed of TiO2 nanotube arrays (TNARs) as the photoanode and a transparent Pt network electrode as the counter electrode (CE).
Multi-layered Pt/Ni nanotube arrays with enhanced catalytic performance for methanol electrooxidation
Authors: Ye Sheng-Hua , Feng Jin-Xian , Wang An-Liang , Xu Han , Li Gao-Ren
Published: October 2015

Novel Pt/Ni multi-layered nanotube arrays (MLNTAs) are synthesized by template-assisted layer-by-layer electrodeposition.
Correction: Influence of the hydrophilic/hydrophobic nature of polyetheramines on the interaction between amine–alcohol–silicate hybrids and anionic dyes for effective water cleaning
Authors: Moura André L. A. , de Oliveira Lilian K. , Ciuffi Katia J. , Molina Eduardo F.
Published: October 2015

Correction for ‘Influence of the hydrophilic/hydrophobic nature of polyetheramines on the interaction between amine–alcohol–silicate hybrids and anionic dyes for effective water cleaning’ by André L. A. Moura et al., J. Mater. Chem. A, 2015, 3, 16020–16032.
Ethanolamine-assisted synthesis of size-controlled indium tin oxide nanoinks for low temperature solution deposited transparent conductive films
Authors: Chen Zheng , Qin Xichao , Zhou Teng , Wu Xinzhou , Shao Shuangshuang , Xie Meilan , Cui Zheng
Published: October 2015

ITO inks are synthesized by the addition of different concentrations of ethanolamine in reactions for low resistivity high quality films, cooperating with a water washing in film preparation.
Superconductivity in CaSn3 single crystals with a AuCu3-type structure
Authors: Luo X. , Shao D. F. , Pei Q. L. , Song J. Y. , Hu L. , Han Y. Y. , Zhu X. B. , Song W. H. , Lu W. J. , Sun Y. P.
Published: October 2015

We report the superconductivity of CaSn3 single crystals with a AuCu3-type structure, namely cubic space group Pm3̄m.
Emission colour tuning through coupled N/La introduction in Sr2SiO4:Eu2+
Authors: Black Ashley P. , Denault Kristin A. , Frontera Carlos , Seshadri Ram , Goñi Alejandro R. , Fuertes Amparo
Published: October 2015

The concomitant substitution of Sr by La and O by N in Sr2SiO4:Eu2+ or Ce3+ produces new luminescent materials with a wide range of emission colours tuned by La/N content.
Highly efficient cosensitization of D–A–π–A benzotriazole organic dyes with porphyrin for panchromatic dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Liu Jingchuan , Liu Bo , Tang Yunyu , Zhang Weiwei , Wu Wenjun , Xie Yongshu , Zhu Wei-Hong
Published: October 2015

The optimization between the pure organic dye and the porphyrin sensitizer, and their effects on photovoltaic performance are focused, achieving a strong panchromatic light response and a promising photovoltaic efficiency of 10.41% with only 6 μm TiO2 films.
Photocurrent enhancement of porphyrin molecules over a wide-wavelength region based on combined use of silver nanoprisms with different aspect ratios
Authors: Sugawa Kosuke , Takeshima Naoto , Uchida Koji , Tahara Hironobu , Jin Shota , Tsunenari Natsumi , Akiyama Tsuyoshi , Kusaka Yasuyuki , Fukuda Nobuko , Ushijima Hirobumi , Tsuchido Yuji , Hashimoto Takeshi , Hayashita Takashi , Otsuki Joe
Published: October 2015

We succeeded in controlling the wavelength range in which the photocurrent of porphyrin is enhanced by tuning as well as expanding the wavelength ranges in which the localized surface plasmon resonance occurs.
Adipocyte-derived PAMM suppresses macrophage inflammation by inhibiting MAPK signalling
Authors: Guo Fang , He Hui , Fu Zhi-Chao , Huang Shengping , Chen Tingtao , Papasian Christopher J. , Morse Leslie R. , Xu Yan , Battaglino Ricardo A. , Yang Xiao-Feng , Jiang Zhisheng , Xin Hong-Bo , Fu Mingui
Published: October 2015

Macrophages within adipose tissue play a key role in mediating inflammatory responses in adipose tissue that are associated with obesity-related metabolic complications. In an effort to identify novel proteins secreted from adipocytes that may negatively regulate macrophage inflammation, we found that peroxiredoxin (PRX)-like 2 activated in M-CSF stimulated monocytes (PAMM), a CXXC-type PRX-like 2 domain-containing redox regulatory protein, is a novel secreted protein with potent anti-inflammatory properties. PAMM is secreted from mature human adipocytes but not preadipocytes. Overexpression of PAMM significantly attenuated lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced macrophage inflammation. Incubation of macrophages with adipocyte-conditional medium treated with anti-PAMM antibody significantly enhanced LPS-induced interleukin-12 (IL-12) expression in Raw264.7 cells. In addition, incubation of Raw264.7 cells with purified PAMM protein had a similar anti-inflammatory effect. Moreover, forced expression of PAMM in Raw264.7 cells resulted in decreased LPS-induced ERK1/2, p38 and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) phosphorylation, suggesting that PAMM exerted the anti-inflammatory function probably by suppressing the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signalling pathway. Mutations in the CXXC motif of PAMM that suppressed its anti-redox activity were still able to suppress production of inflammatory cytokines in LPS-stimulated macrophages, suggesting that PAMM's anti-inflammatory properties may be independent of its antioxidant properties. Finally, PAMM was highly expressed in both white (WAT) and brown adipose tissues (BAT) and further increased in obesity status. Our results suggest that adipocyte-derived PAMM may suppress macrophage activation by inhibiting MAPK signalling pathway.
Structure and function of Caulobacter crescentus aldose–aldose oxidoreductase
Authors: Taberman Helena , Andberg Martina , Koivula Anu , Hakulinen Nina , Penttilä Merja , Rouvinen Juha , Parkkinen Tarja
Published: October 2015

Aldose–aldose oxidoreductase (Cc AAOR) is a recently characterized enzyme from the bacterial strain Caulobacter crescentus CB15 belonging to the glucose-fructose oxidoreductase/inositol dehydrogenase/rhizopine catabolism protein (Gfo/Idh/MocA) family. Cc AAOR catalyses the oxidation and reduction of a panel of aldose monosaccharides using a tightly bound NADP(H) cofactor that is regenerated in the catalytic cycle. Furthermore, Cc AAOR can also oxidize 1,4-linked oligosaccharides. In the present study, we present novel crystal structures of the dimeric Cc AAOR in complex with the cofactor and glycerol, D-xylose, D-glucose, maltotriose and D-sorbitol determined to resolutions of 2.0, 1.8, 1.7, 1.9 and 1.8 Å (1 Å=0.1 nm), respectively. These complex structures allowed for a detailed analysis of the ligand-binding interactions. The structures showed that the C1 carbon of a substrate, which is either reduced or oxidized, is close to the reactive C4 carbon of the nicotinamide ring of NADP(H). In addition, the O1 hydroxy group of the substrate, which is either protonated or deprotonated, is unexpectedly close to both Lys104 and Tyr189, which may both act as a proton donor or acceptor. This led us to hypothesize that this intriguing feature could be beneficial for Cc AAOR to catalyse the reduction of a linear form of a monosaccharide substrate and the oxidation of a pyranose form of the same substrate in a reaction cycle, during which the bound cofactor is regenerated.
Zero voltage switching interleaved coupled inductor synchronous buck converter operating at boundary condition
Authors: Marvi Fahimeh , Adib Ehsan , Farzanehfard Hosein
Published: October 2015

A zero voltage switching interleaved coupled inductor synchronous buck converter operating at discontinuous conduction mode (DCM)/continuous conduction mode (CCM) boundary condition is presented for step‐down applications. To increase the duty cycle, coupled inductor structure with lossless clamp circuit is used. Moreover, operating at DCM/CCM boundary has increased the efficiency by reducing the switching losses. However, this approach results in high output current ripple. To further reduce the input and output current ripple, interleaved structure is employed. Thus, high efficiency and low current ripple are the merits of the proposed converter which make it a proper choice for voltage regulator module applications. The operation of the proposed converter is analysed and design considerations are discussed. The experimental results obtained from an implemented prototype are provided to verify the theoretical analysis.
HeartSearcher: finds patients with similar arrhythmias based on heartbeat classification
Authors: Park Juyoung , Kang Kyungtae
Published: October 2015

Long‐term electrocardiogram data can be acquired by linking a Holter monitor to a mobile phone. However, most systems of this variety are simply designed to detect arrhythmia through heartbeat classification, and do not provide any additional support for clinical decisions. HeartSearcher identifies patients with similar arrhythmias from heartbeat classifications, by summarising each patient's typical heartbeat pattern in the form of a regular expression, and then ranking patients according to the similarities of their patterns. Results obtained using electrocardiogram data from the MIT‐BIH arrhythmia database show that this abstraction reduces the volume of heartbeat classifications by 98% on average, offering great potential to support clinical decisions.
Yolk Sac Tumor of the Temporal Lobe: Case Report
Authors: Machado Ana , Taipa Ricardo , Pires Manuel , Silva Carla , Gomes Mário
Published: October 2015

Germ cell tumors of the central nervous system (CNS) are usually located along the midline. Yolk sac tumor is a rare germ cell tumor very uncommonly located outside the midline, and, in such cases, it can be mistaken with other primary tumors. We report a case of a 32-year-old male patient who presented with a right temporal lobe tumor suggestive of a high grade glioma. He was submitted to a right temporal lobectomy with complete tumor removal. The histological exam revealed a germ cell tumor (later confirmed to be a yolk sac tumor). The search for a primary tumor outside of the CNS (including a positron emission tomography scan) was negative, making this a primary temporal lobe yolk sac tumor. The patient was submitted to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, but died 7 months after the surgery.
Theory and experiment research for ultra-low frequency maglev vibration sensor
Authors: Zheng Dezhi , Liu Yixuan , Guo Zhanshe , Zhao Xiaomeng , Fan Shangchun
Published: October 2015

A new maglev sensor is proposed to measure ultra-low frequency (ULF) vibration, which uses hybrid-magnet levitation structure with electromagnets and permanent magnets as the supporting component, rather than the conventional spring structure of magnetoelectric vibration sensor. Since the lower measurement limit needs to be reduced, the equivalent bearing stiffness coefficient and the equivalent damping coefficient are adjusted by the sensitivity unit structure of the sensor and the closed-loop control system, which realizes both the closed-loop control and the solving algorithms. A simple sensor experimental platform is then assembled based on a digital hardware system, and experimental results demonstrate that the lower measurement limit of the sensor is increased to 0.2 Hz under these experimental conditions, indicating promising results of the maglev sensor for ULF vibration measurements.
Optically sensitive devices based on Pt nano particles fabricated by atomic layer deposition and embedded in a dielectric stack
Authors: Mikhelashvili V. , Padmanabhan R. , Meyler B. , Yofis S. , Atiya G. , Cohen-Hyams Z. , Weindling S. , Ankonina G. , Salzman J. , Kaplan W. D. , Eisenstein G.
Published: October 2015

We report a series of metal insulator semiconductor devices with embedded Pt nano particles (NPs) fabricated using a low temperature atomic layer deposition process. Optically sensitive nonvolatile memory cells as well as optical sensors: (i) varactors, whose capacitance-voltage characteristics, nonlinearity, and peak capacitance are strongly dependent on illumination intensity; (ii) highly linear photo detectors whose responsivity is enhanced due to the Pt NPs. Both single devices and back to back pairs of diodes were used. The different configurations enable a variety of functionalities with many potential applications in biomedical sensing, environmental surveying, simple imagers for consumer electronics and military uses. The simplicity and planar configuration of the proposed devices makes them suitable for standard CMOS fabrication technology.
Enhancing of optic phonon contribution in hydrodynamic phonon transport
Authors: de Tomas C. , Cantarero A. , Lopeandia A. F. , Alvarez F. X.
Published: October 2015

In the framework of the kinetic-collective model of phonon heat transport, we analyze how each range of the phonon frequency spectrum contributes to the total thermal conductivity both in the macro and the nanoscale. For this purpose, we use two case study samples: naturally occurring bulk silicon and a 115 nm of diameter silicon nanowire. We show that the contribution of high-energy phonons (optic branches) is non-negligible only when N-collisions are strongly present. This contribution increases when the effective size of the sample decreases, and it is found to be up to a 10% at room temperature for the 115 nm nanowire, corroborating preliminar ab-initio predictions.
Gyrokinetic study of the impact of the electron to ion heating ratio on the turbulent diffusion of highly charged impurities
Authors: Angioni C.
Published: October 2015

A gyrokinetic study based on numerical and analytical calculations is presented, which computes the dependence of the turbulent diffusion of highly charged impurities on the ratio of the electron to the ion heat flux of the plasma. Nonlinear simulations show that the size of the turbulent diffusion of heavy impurities can vary by one order of magnitude with fixed total heat flux and is an extremely sensitive function of the electron to ion heat flux ratio. Numerical linear calculations are found to reproduce the nonlinear results. Thereby, a quasi-linear analytical approach is used to explain the origin of this dependence.
Alfven solitary waves in nonrelativistic, relativistic, and ultra-relativistic degenerate quantum plasma
Authors: Rehman M. A. , Shah H. A. , Masood W. , Qureshi M. N. S.
Published: October 2015

Nonlinear circularly polarized Alfvén waves are studied in magnetized nonrelativistic, relativistic, and ultrarelativistic degenerate Fermi plasmas. Using the quantum hydrodynamic model, Zakharov equations are derived and the Sagdeev potential approach is used to investigate the properties of the electromagnetic solitary structures. It is seen that the amplitude increases with the increase of electron density in the relativistic and ultrarelativistic cases but decreases in the nonrelativistic case. Both right and left handed waves are considered, and it is seen that supersonic, subsonic, and super- and sub-Alfvénic solitary structures are obtained for different polarizations and under different relativistic regimes.
Saddle antenna radio frequency ion sources
Authors: Dudnikov V. , Johnson R. , Murray S. , Pennisi T. , Santana M. , Piller C. , Stockli M. , Welton R. , Breitschopf J. , Dudnikova G.
Published: October 2015

Existing RF ion sources for accelerators have specific efficiencies for H+ and H− ion generation ∼3–5 mA/cm2 kW, where about 50 kW of RF power is typically needed for 50 mA beam current production. The Saddle Antenna (SA) surface plasma source (SPS) described here was developed to improve H− ion production efficiency, reliability, and availability. In SA RF ion source, the efficiency of positive ion generation in the plasma has been improved to 200 mA/cm2 kW. After cesiation, the current of negative ions to the collector was increased from 1 mA to 10 mA with RF power ∼1.5 kW in the plasma (6 mm diameter emission aperture) and up to 30 mA with ∼4 kW RF. Continuous wave (CW) operation of the SA SPS has been tested on the test stand. The general design of the CW SA SPS is based on the pulsed version. Some modifications were made to improve the cooling and cesiation stability. CW operation with negative ion extraction was tested with RF power up to ∼1.2 kW in the plasma with production up to Ic = 7 mA. A stable long time generation of H− beam without degradation was demonstrated in RF discharge with AlN discharge chamber.