bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Species composition and community structure of fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) across major mango-growing regions in Uganda
Authors: Isabirye B.E. , Akol A.M. , Mayamba A. , Nankinga C.K. , Rwomushana I.
Published: April 2015

The species diversity of tephritid fruit flies in major mango-growing regions in Uganda was monitored over a 2-year period (2010–2012) using fruit bait and lure traps. A total of 368,332 specimens belonging to 10 species in four genera (Bactrocera,Ceratitis,TrirhithrumandDacus) were collected. Of these, 98.9% belonged toBactrocera invadens, while the second and third most common species wereDacus bivittatus(0.4%) andCeratitis anonae(0.3%), respectively. Significant differences in the evenness and diversity of fruit fly species were noted across the regions. Fruit fly community structure was significantly different across the three regions. The Lake Victoria Crescent and Mbale Farmlands harboured significantly moreD. ciliatus,T. coffeae,D. bivittatusandB. cucurbitaein contrast to the Northern Moist Farmlands and the Western Medium High Farmlands.Ceratitis rosacontributed the highest difference in regional structure, followed byC. fasciventrisandC. cosyra. Rank abundance curves depicted a geometric series distribution of the species composition in the three regions, confirming a scenario of competitive displacement of native fruit fly species byB. invadens. A comprehensive and sustainable response strategy toB. invadensand other fruit flies needs to be urgently devised to protect the horticulture industry in Uganda.
Loss of Caspase-3 sensitizes colon cancer cells to genotoxic stress via RIP1-dependent necrosis
Authors: Brown M F , Leibowitz B J , Chen D , He K , Zou F , Sobol R W , Beer-Stolz D , Zhang L , Yu J
Published: April 2015

Caspase-3 is the best known executioner caspase in apoptosis. We generated caspase-3 knockout (C3KO) and knockdown human colorectal cancer cells, and found that they are unexpectedly sensitized to DNA-damaging agents including 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), etoposide, and camptothecin. C3KO xenograft tumors also displayed enhanced therapeutic response and cell death to 5-FU. C3KO cells showed intact apoptosis and activation of caspase-7 and -9, impaired processing of caspase-8, and induction of necrosis in response to DNA-damaging agents. This form of necrosis is associated with HMGB1 release and ROS production, and suppressed by genetic or pharmacological inhibition of RIP1, MLKL1, or caspase-8, but not inhibitors of pan-caspases or RIP3. 5-FU treatment led to the formation of a z-VAD-resistant pro-caspase-8/RIP1/FADD complex, which was strongly stabilized by caspase-3 KO. These data demonstrate a key role of caspase-3 in caspase-8 processing and suppression of DNA damage-induced necrosis, and provide a potentially novel way to chemosensitize cancer cells.
NF-κB inhibition reveals a novel role for HGF during skeletal muscle repair
Authors: Proto J D , Tang Y , Lu A , Chen W C W , Stahl E , Poddar M , Beckman S A , Robbins P D , Nidernhofer L J , Imbrogno K , Hannigan T , Mars W M , Wang B , Huard J
Published: April 2015

The transcription factor nuclear factor κB (NF-κB)/p65 is the master regulator of inflammation in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Disease severity is reduced by NF-κB inhibition in the mdx mouse, a murine DMD model; however, therapeutic targeting of NF-κB remains problematic for patients because of its fundamental role in immunity. In this investigation, we found that the therapeutic effect of NF-κB blockade requires hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) production by myogenic cells. We found that deleting one allele of the NF-κB subunit p65 (p65+/−) improved the survival and enhanced the anti-inflammatory capacity of muscle-derived stem cells (MDSCs) following intramuscular transplantation. Factors secreted from p65+/− MDSCs in cell cultures modulated macrophage cytokine expression in an HGF-receptor-dependent manner. Indeed, we found that following genetic or pharmacologic inhibition of basal NF-κB/p65 activity, HGF gene transcription was induced in MDSCs. We investigated the role of HGF in anti-NF-κB therapy in vivo using mdx;p65+/− mice, and found that accelerated regeneration coincided with HGF upregulation in the skeletal muscle. This anti-NF-κB-mediated dystrophic phenotype was reversed by blocking de novo HGF production by myogenic cells following disease onset. HGF silencing resulted in increased inflammation and extensive necrosis of the diaphragm muscle. Proteolytic processing of matrix-associated HGF is known to activate muscle stem cells at the earliest stages of repair, but our results indicate that the production of a second pool of HGF by myogenic cells, negatively regulated by NF-κB/p65, is crucial for inflammation resolution and the completion of repair in dystrophic skeletal muscle. Our findings warrant further investigation into the potential of HGF mimetics for the treatment of DMD.
Acquisition of meiotic DNA repair regulators maintain genome stability in glioblastoma
Authors: Rivera M , Wu Q , Hamerlik P , Hjelmeland A B , Bao S , Rich J N
Published: April 2015

Glioblastoma (GBM), the most prevalent type of primary intrinsic brain cancer in adults, remains universally fatal despite maximal therapy, including radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Cytotoxic therapy generates double-stranded DNA breaks (DSBs), most commonly repaired by homologous recombination (HR). We hypothesized that cancer cells coopt meiotic repair machinery as DSBs are generated during meiosis and repaired by molecular complexes distinct from genotoxic responses in somatic tissues. Indeed, we found that gliomas express meiotic repair genes and their expression informed poor prognosis. We interrogated the function of disrupted meiotic cDNA1 (DMC1), a homolog of RAD51, the primary recombinase used in mitotic cells to search and recombine with the homologous DNA template. DMC1, whose only known function is as an HR recombinase, was expressed by GBM cells and induced by radiation. Although targeting DMC1 in non-neoplastic cells minimally altered cell growth, DMC1 depletion in GBM cells decreased proliferation, induced activation of CHK1 and expression of p21CIP1/WAF1, and increased RPA foci, suggesting increased replication stress. Combining loss of DMC1 with ionizing radiation inhibited activation of DNA damage responses and increased radiosensitivity. Furthermore, loss of DMC1 reduced tumor growth and prolonged survival in vivo. Our results suggest that cancers coopt meiotic genes to augment survival under genotoxic stress, offering molecular targets with high therapeutic indices.
Structure of the Bacillus subtilis 70S ribosome reveals the basis for species-specific stalling
Authors: Sohmen Daniel , Chiba Shinobu , Shimokawa-Chiba Naomi , Innis C. Axel , Berninghausen Otto , Beckmann Roland , Ito Koreaki , Wilson Daniel N.
Published: April 2015

Ribosomal stalling is used to regulate gene expression and can occur in a species-specific manner. Stalling during translation of the MifM leader peptide regulates expression of the downstream membrane protein biogenesis factor YidC2 (YqjG) in Bacillus subtilis, but not in Escherichia coli. In the absence of structures of Gram-positive bacterial ribosomes, a molecular basis for species-specific stalling has remained unclear. Here we present the structure of a Gram-positive B. subtilis MifM-stalled 70S ribosome at 3.5–3.9 Å, revealing a network of interactions between MifM and the ribosomal tunnel, which stabilize a non-productive conformation of the PTC that prevents aminoacyl-tRNA accommodation and thereby induces translational arrest. Complementary genetic analyses identify a single amino acid within ribosomal protein L22 that dictates the species specificity of the stalling event. Such insights expand our understanding of how the synergism between the ribosome and the nascent chain is utilized to modulate the translatome in a species-specific manner.
Three-dimensional nanoscale molecular imaging by extreme ultraviolet laser ablation mass spectrometry
Authors: Kuznetsov Ilya , Filevich Jorge , Dong Feng , Woolston Mark , Chao Weilun , Anderson Erik H. , Bernstein Elliot R. , Crick Dean C. , Rocca Jorge J. , Menoni Carmen S.
Published: April 2015

Analytical probes capable of mapping molecular composition at the nanoscale are of critical importance to materials research, biology and medicine. Mass spectral imaging makes it possible to visualize the spatial organization of multiple molecular components at a sample’s surface. However, it is challenging for mass spectral imaging to map molecular composition in three dimensions (3D) with submicron resolution. Here we describe a mass spectral imaging method that exploits the high 3D localization of absorbed extreme ultraviolet laser light and its fundamentally distinct interaction with matter to determine molecular composition from a volume as small as 50 zl in a single laser shot. Molecular imaging with a lateral resolution of 75 nm and a depth resolution of 20 nm is demonstrated. These results open opportunities to visualize chemical composition and chemical changes in 3D at the nanoscale.
Association of vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E and risk of bladder cancer: a dose-response meta-analysis
Authors: Chen Fuqiang , Li Qingshu , Yu Yang , Yang Wenrong , Shi Fei , Qu Yan
Published: April 2015

A dose-response meta-analysis was conducted to assess the association of vitamin C, D, E with risk of bladder cancer. Pertinent studies were identified in PubMed and Embase. The random-effect model was used. The relative risk (95% confidence interval) of bladder cancer was 0.99 (0.95–1.03) for every 100 IU/day increment in vitamin D from diet plus supplement and 0.95 (0.90–1.00) for every 10 nmol/L increment in circulating vitamin D. The effect for every 10 mg/day increment was 0.96 (0.90–1.02) for vitamin E from diet plus supplement, 0.83 (0.72–0.95) from diet and 0.88 (0.67–1.15) from supplement and the effect was 0.84 (0.76–0.94) for every 1 mg/dL increment in circulating α-Tocopherol and 1.22 (1.00–1.49) for every 0.1 mg/dL increment in circulating γ-Tocopherol. The observed association for vitamin D and vitamin E was significant among smokers but not among non-smokers. No significant association was found between vitamin C and risk of bladder cancer in the dose-response analysis. Based on the dose-response analysis, the risk of bladder cancer might be inversely associated with vitamin D and E (especially α-Tocopherol), but positively associated with γ-Tocopherol.
Enhanced Crystallinity of Epitaxial Graphene Grown on Hexagonal SiC Surface with Molybdenum Plate Capping
Authors: Jin Han Byul , Jeon Youngeun , Jung Sungchul , Modepalli Vijayakumar , Kang Hyun Suk , Lee Byung Cheol , Ko Jae-Hyeon , Shin Hyung-Joon , Yoo Jung-Woo , Kim Sung Youb , Kwon Soon-Yong , Eom Daejin , Park Kibog
Published: April 2015

The crystallinity of epitaxial graphene (EG) grown on a Hexagonal-SiC substrate is found to be enhanced greatly by capping the substrate with a molybdenum plate (Mo-plate) during vacuum annealing. The crystallinity enhancement of EG layer grown with Mo-plate capping is confirmed by the significant change of measured Raman spectra, compared to the spectra for no capping. Mo-plate capping is considered to induce heat accumulation on SiC surface by thermal radiation mirroring and raise Si partial pressure near surface by confining the sublimated Si atoms between SiC substrate and Mo-plate, which would be the essential contributors of crystallinity enhancement.
Work-Hardening Induced Tensile Ductility of Bulk Metallic Glasses via High-Pressure Torsion
Authors: Joo Soo-Hyun , Pi Dong-Hai , Setyawan Albertus Deny Heri , Kato Hidemi , Janecek Milos , Kim Yong Chan , Lee Sunghak , Kim Hyoung Seop
Published: April 2015

The mechanical properties of engineering materials are key for ensuring safety and reliability. However, the plastic deformation of BMGs is confined to narrow regions in shear bands, which usually result in limited ductilities and catastrophic failures at low homologous temperatures. The quasi-brittle failure and lack of tensile ductility undercut the potential applications of BMGs. In this report, we present clear tensile ductility in a Zr-based BMG via a high-pressure torsion (HPT) process. Enhanced tensile ductility and work-hardening behavior after the HPT process were investigated, focusing on the microstructure, particularly the changed free volume, which affects deformation mechanisms (i.e., initiation, propagation and obstruction of shear bands). Our results provide insights into the basic functions of hydrostatic pressure and shear strain in the microstructure and mechanical properties of HPT-processed BMGs.
A National Assessment of the Epidemiology of Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome, China
Authors: Liu Kun , Zhou Hang , Sun Ruo-Xi , Yao Hong-Wu , Li Yu , Wang Li-Ping , Di Mu  , Li Xin-Lou , Yang Yang , Gray Gregory C. , Cui Ning , Yin Wen-Wu , Fang Li-Qun , Yu Hong-Jie , Cao Wu-Chun
Published: April 2015

First discovered in rural areas of middle-eastern China in 2009, severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is an emerging tick-borne zoonosis affecting hundreds of cases reported in China each year. Using the national surveillance data from 2010 to 2013, we conducted this retrospective epidemiological study and risk assessment of SFTS in China. We found that the incidence of SFTS and its epidemic areas are continuing to grow, but the case fatality rate (CFR) has steadily decreased. SFTS most commonly affected elderly farmers who acquired infection between May and July in middle-eastern China. However, other epidemiological characteristics such as incidence, sex ratio, CFR and seasonality differ substantially across the affected provinces, which seem to be consistent with local agricultural activities and the seasonal abundance of ticks. Spatial scan statistics detected three hot spots of SFTS that accounted for 69.1% of SFTS cases in China. There was a strong association of SFTS incidence with temporal changes in the climate within the clusters. Multivariate modeling identified climate conditions, elevation, forest coverage, cattle density and the presence of Haemaphysalis longicornis ticks as independent risk factors in the distribution of SFTS, based on which a predicted risk map of the disease was derived.
Enhancing participation to health screening campaigns by group interactions
Authors: Burioni Raffaella , Contucci Pierluigi , Fedele Micaela , Vernia Cecilia , Vezzani Alessandro
Published: April 2015

Improving the prevention efficacy of health screening campaigns by increasing their attendance rate represents a challenge that calls for new strategies. This paper analyzes the response to a Pap test screening campaign of 155,000 women over the last decade. Using a mathematical model of statistical physics origins we derive a quantitative estimate of the mutual influence between participating groups. Different scenarios and possible actions are studied from the cost-benefit perspective. The performance of alternative strategies to improve participation are forecasted and compared. The results show that the standard strategies with incentives concentrated toward the low participating groups are outperformed by those toward pivotal groups with higher influence power. Our method provides a flexible tool useful to support policy maker decisions while complying with ethical regulations on privacy and confidentiality.
Biochemical Diversity of 2-Oxoglutarate-Dependent Oxygenases
Authors: Hausinger Robert P.
Published: April 2015

This chapter summarizes the diverse array of biochemical transformations that are catalysed by Fe(ii)- and 2-oxoglutarate (2OG)-dependent oxygenases. One group of these enzymes utilizes protein substrates and functions in structural stabilization, oxygen sensing, histone-dependent regulation, or other roles. A second set of 2OG-dependent oxygenases acts on polynucleotides with functions that include DNA/RNA repair, regulation of transcription, biosynthesis of unique bases, and demethylation of 5-methylcytosine. A third assemblage of enzymes in this family is involved in lipid-related metabolism and function in carnitine biosynthesis, degradation of phytanic acids, and modification of various lipids. A fourth collection of these oxygenases catalyses reactions related to synthesis of flavonoids, anthocyanins, gibberellins, alkaloids and other metabolites found predominantly in plants. A fifth group of these enzymes acts on a variety of small molecules including free amino acids, nucleobases/nucleosides, herbicides, sulfonates/sulfates and phosphonates. A sixth compilation of 2OG-dependent oxygenases is utilized for antibiotic biosynthesis, including several halogenating enzymes. Finally, a seventh set of these enzymes is related in structure or mechanism to the 2OG-dependent oxygenases, but do not utilize 2OG, and include isopenicillin N synthase, a plant-specific ethylene-forming enzyme, and two enzymes that use 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate. This introduction to the biochemical diversity of these amazing enzymes provides a foundation for appreciating the specific aspects detailed in the remaining chapters of this text.
Collagen Hydroxylases
Authors: Myllyharju Johanna
Published: April 2015

Collagen synthesis requires the modification of procollagen polypeptides by three types of 2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenases: collagen prolyl 4-hydroxylases (C–P4Hs), lysyl hydroxylases (LHs) and prolyl 3-hydroxylases (P3Hs), with each family consisting of three isoenzymes in vertebrates. This review addresses the molecular, functional and structural characteristics of the collagen hydroxylases. Detailed information on the individual in vivo roles of the collagen hydroxylase isoenzymes is also discussed based on the emerging data from mouse models and human diseases caused by mutations in genes coding for collagen hydroxylases.
AlkB and Its Homologues – DNA Repair and Beyond
Authors: Müller Tina A. , Hausinger Robert P.
Published: April 2015

AlkB is an Fe(ii)/2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenase that is part of the adaptive response to alkylating agents in Escherichia coli. AlkB hydroxylates a wide variety of alkylated DNA bases producing unstable intermediates which decompose to restore the non-alkylated bases. Homologues exist in other bacteria, metazoa (e.g. nine in humans), plants and viruses, but not in archaea, with many catalysing the same oxidative demethylation reactions as for AlkB. The mammalian enzymes Alkbh2 and Alkbh3 catalyse direct DNA repair, Alkbh5 and FTO (Alkbh9) are RNA demethylases, and Alkbh8 is used to synthesize a tRNA, while the remaining mammalian homologues have alternative functions. Alkbh1 is an apurinic/apyrimidinic lyase in addition to exhibiting demethylase activities, but no clear role for the Alkbh1 protein has emerged. Alkbh4 is involved in cell division and potentially demethylates actin, whereas the mitochondrial homologue Alkbh7 has a role in obesity; however, no enzymatic activity has been linked to Alkbh4 or Alkbh7. Here, we discuss AlkB as the ‘archetype’ of this class of hydroxylases, compare it to Alkbh2 and Alkbh3, and then briefly review the diverse (and largely unknown) functions of Alkbh1, Alkbh4, Alkbh6 and Alkbh7. Alkbh5, Alkbh8 and Alkbh9 (FTO) are described separately.
2-Oxoglutarate-Dependent Hydroxylases Involved in DNA Base J (β-D-Glucopyranosyloxymethyluracil) Synthesis
Authors: Reynolds David , Cliffe Laura , Sabatini Robert
Published: April 2015

Base J (β-D-glucopyranosyloxymethyluracil) is an O-linked glycosylated thymine found in the nuclear DNA of flagellated protozoa of the order Kinetoplastida, where this epigenetic mark replaces ∼1% of the total thymidine. Base J synthesis is initiated at specific sites within the genome by the hydroxylation of thymidine using the Fe(ii)/2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenases JBP1 and JBP2, forming hydroxymethyl uracil (hmU), followed by the glucosylation of hmU using a glucosyltransferase. This epigenetic modification has been shown to regulate chromatin structure and RNA polymerase II transcription in kinetoplastid parasites. Here we describe our current knowledge of the structure and function of the two dioxygenases, focusing on how they regulate base J synthesis and how this has been pivotal in unravelling the function of this unusual epigenetic mark. Finally, we discuss how the parasite may utilize characteristics of the dioxygenase to epigenetically regulate gene expression in response to environmental changes within the host.
Dioxygenases of Carnitine Biosynthesis: 6-N-Trimethyllysine and γ-Butyrobetaine Hydroxylases
Authors: Vaz Frédéric M. , van Vlies Naomi
Published: April 2015

This chapter describes the state of knowledge of the two 2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenases of carnitine biosynthesis: 6-N-trimethyllysine hydroxylase and γ-butyrobetaine hydroxylase. Both enzymes have been extensively investigated as carnitine plays an important role in fatty acid metabolism in animals and some other life forms. Carnitine metabolism is introduced followed by a comprehensive review of the properties of the two carnitine biosynthesis dioxygenases including their purification, kinetic and biophysical characterization, regulation and roles in metabolism.
Phytanoyl-CoA Hydroxylase: A 2-Oxoglutarate-Dependent Dioxygenase Crucial for Fatty Acid Alpha-Oxidation in Humans
Authors: Wanders Ronald J. A. , Ferdinandusse Sacha , Ebberink Merel S. , Waterham Hans R.
Published: April 2015

Phytanoyl-CoA hydroxylase belongs to the family of 2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenases and plays a crucial role in the α-oxidation of fatty acids. The complete α-oxidation pathway involves five different enzymes localized in peroxisomes. Thus far, phytanoyl-CoA hydroxylase deficiency has remained the only genetically determined inborn error of metabolism affecting the α-oxidation pathway. In this chapter we describe the current state of knowledge on fatty acid α-oxidation with special emphasis on phytanoyl-CoA hydroxylase and its deficiency in Refsum disease.
Screening of antioxidant, antimicrobial and antiradical activities of twelve selected Serbian wild mushrooms
Authors: Dimitrijevic Marija , Jovanovic Vesna Stankov , Cvetkovic Jelena , Mihajilov-Krstev Tatjana , Stojanovic Gordana , Mitic Violeta
Published: April 2015

The CUPRAC method was applied for the first time to estimate the antioxidant activity of some mushrooms.
Investigation of the influence of alkyl side chain length on the fluorescence response of C153 in a series of room temperature ionic liquids
Authors: Das Sudhir Kumar , Majhi Debashis , Sahu Prabhat Kumar , Sarkar Moloy
Published: April 2015

Variation of average solvation time with the product of temperature averaged viscosity and the radius of the cation of different room temperature ionic liquids (RTILs) with varying cationic chain length.
A molecularly imprinted sensor based on an electrochemiluminescent membrane for ultratrace doxycycline determination
Authors: Li Shuhuai , Li Jianping , Lin Qingyu , Wei Xiaoping
Published: April 2015

A new electrochemical luminescence sensor was developed based on a molecularly imprinted membrane prepared by electropolymerization of pyrogallol doped with alizarin red. The ECL signal was produced by the oxidation of the polypyrogallol polymer, which was then reacted with alizarin red, and enhanced by doxycycline molecules due to energy transfer.
Development and validation of an UPLC-MS/MS method for determination of jujuboside B in rat plasma and its application in pharmacokinetic and bioavailability studies
Authors: Zheng Xiaoyong , Yang Xiangxiang , Le Qiaoyan , Zhang Shuangshuang , Chen Ruijie , Xiang Zheng
Published: April 2015

Development and validation of an UPLC-MS/MS method for determination of jujuboside B in rat plasma.
Sensitive electrochemical determination of rhodamine B based on cyclodextrin-functionalized nanogold/hollow carbon nanospheres
Authors: Yi Yinhui , Sun Heng , Zhu Gangbing , Zhang Zhen , Wu Xiangyang
Published: April 2015

A sensitive electrochemical sensor platform for rhodamine B was developed based on cyclodextrin-functionalized nanogold/hollow carbon nanospheres.
TiNb6O17: a new electrode material for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Lin Chunfu , Wang Guizhen , Lin Shiwei , Li Jianbao , Lu Li
Published: April 2015

TiNb6O17, with a significantly larger capacity than Li4Ti5O12, fulfils the requirements of high power and energy density for electric vehicles.
One-step synthesis of a cyclic 2,17-dioxo[3,3](4,4′) biphenylophane and first preparation of a microporous polymer network from a macrocyclic precursor by cyclotrimerization
Authors: Samanta Suman Kalyan , Preis Eduard , Lehmann Christian W. , Goddard Richard , Bag Saientan , Maiti Prabal K. , Brunklaus Gunther , Scherf Ullrich
Published: April 2015

Macrocycle 2,17-dioxo[3,3](4,4′)biphenylophane was synthesized and used in the formation of a microporous polymer network.
NMR crystallography of monovalent cations in inorganic matrixes: Li+ siting and the local structure of Li+ sites in ferrierites
Authors: Klein P. , Dedecek J. , Thomas H. M. , Whittleton S. R. , Pashkova V. , Brus J. , Kobera L. , Sklenak S.
Published: April 2015

A new approach to the determination of the Li+ siting and the local structure of Li+ sites in zeolites is reported.
Modular design of SPIRO-OMeTAD analogues as hole transport materials in solar cells
Authors: Murray Alexander T. , Frost Jarvist M. , Hendon Christopher H. , Molloy Christopher D. , Carbery David R. , Walsh Aron
Published: April 2015

We report the ionisation potentials of twelve modifications of the hole conducting material SPIRO-OMeTAD.
Spiroboronate Si-rhodamine as a near-infrared probe for imaging lysosomes based on the reversible ring-opening process
Authors: Zhu Weiwei , Chai Xiaoyun , Wang Baogang , Zou Yan , Wang Ting , Meng Qingguo , Wu Qiuye
Published: April 2015

A cyclic boronate structure was incorporated into Si-rhodamine to design a pH-activatable near-infrared (NIR) probe based on the reversible ring-opening process.
Flux method growth of bulk MoS2single crystals and their application as a saturable absorber
Authors: Zhang Xixia , Lou Fei , Li Chunlong , Zhang Xiang , Jia Ning , Yu Tongtong , He Jingliang , Zhang Baitao , Xia Haibing , Wang Shanpeng , Tao Xutang
Published: April 2015

A 3 mm × 5 mm crystal of MoS2is grown by the Sn flux method.
Water-plasma-assisted synthesis of black titania spheres with efficient visible-light photocatalytic activity
Authors: Panomsuwan Gasidit , Watthanaphanit Anyarat , Ishizaki Takahiro , Saito Nagahiro
Published: April 2015

Stable black titania spheres (H-TiO2−x) were synthesized via a simple green method assisted by water plasma at a low temperature and atmospheric pressure.
On the relationship between the basicity of a surface and its ability to catalyze transesterification in liquid and gas phases: the case of MgO
Authors: Cornu Damien , Guesmi Hazar , Laugel Guillaume , Krafft Jean-Marc , Lauron-Pernot Hélène
Published: April 2015

The influence of the basic properties of MgO is not the same for liquid and for gas phase transesterification.
Theoretical simulation of the reduction of graphene oxide by lithium naphthalenide
Authors: Chen Chu , Kong Weixing , Duan Haiming , Zhang Jun
Published: April 2015

Based on density functional theory, we investigated the mechanism of graphene oxide reduction by lithium naphthalenide. CO2 plays an important role in deoxidation of GO.
Geometries, stabilities and fragmental channels of neutral and charged sulfur clusters: SnQ(n = 3–20, Q = 0, ±1)
Authors: Jin Yuanyuan , Maroulis George , Kuang Xiaoyu , Ding Liping , Lu Cheng , Wang Jingjing , Lv Jian , Zhang Chuanzhao , Ju Meng
Published: April 2015

We have performed unbiased searches for the global minimum structures of neutral and charged sulfur clusters relying on the CALYPSO method combined with DFT geometric optimization.
Coordination properties of a metal chelator clioquinol to Zn2+ studied by static DFT and ab initio molecular dynamics
Authors: Rodríguez-Santiago Luis , Alí-Torres Jorge , Vidossich Pietro , Sodupe Mariona
Published: April 2015

Explicit solvent first principles molecular dynamics simulations of Zn2+–clioquinol predict high coordination geometries.
Steering charge kinetics in photocatalysis: intersection of materials syntheses, characterization techniques and theoretical simulations
Authors: Bai Song , Jiang Jun , Zhang Qun , Xiong Yujie
Published: April 2015

This review outlines the recent progress on probing and steering charge kinetics toward designing highly efficient photocatalysts.
Scheelite: a versatile structural template for selective alkene oxidation catalysts
Authors: Brazdil James F.
Published: April 2015

The scheelite (CaWO4) structure type serves as the framework for a wide variety of metal oxide catalysts used for the selective oxidation and ammoxidation of alkenes.
Design, synthesis, photophysical and electrochemical properties of 2-(4,5-diphenyl-1-p-aryl-1H-imidazol-2-yl)phenol-based boron complexes
Authors: Mukundam Vanga , Dhanunjayarao Kunchala , Chuang Ching-Nan , Kang Dun-Yen , Leung Man-kit , Hsieh Kuo-Huang , Venkatasubbaiah Krishnan
Published: April 2015

New hybrid organic–inorganic boron compounds using an imidazole core have been readily synthesized from commercially available simple starting materials.
Enhancing the ferromagnetic coupling in extended phloroglucinol complexes by increasing the metal SOMO–ligand overlap: synthesis and characterization of a trinuclear CoII3 triplesalophen complex
Authors: Oldengott Jan , Stammler Anja , Bögge Hartmut , Glaser Thorsten
Published: April 2015

The better overlap of the SOMO with the central π-system in the CoII3 than in the CuII3 complex enhances the spin-polarization and thus the ferromagnetic coupling.
Effects of estrone and organic carbon exposure on the transformation of estrone
Authors: Tan David T. , Arnold William A. , Novak Paige J.
Published: April 2015

Multiple substrate utilization and feeding intervals affect the microbial transformation of estrone.
Nanoclusters of Cu(ii) supported on nanocrystalline W(vi) oxide: a potential catalyst for single-step conversion of cyclohexane to adipic acid
Authors: Acharyya Shankha S. , Ghosh Shilpi , Bal Rajaram
Published: April 2015

A facile hydrothermal synthesis method is developed to prepare Cu(ii) nanoclusters supported on a nanocrystalline W(vi) oxide catalyst with sizes between 35 and 65 nm.
Electrochemical and chemical synthesis of different types of sulfonamide derivatives of N,N-dimethyl-1,4-benzenediamine using 4-nitroso-N,N-dimethylaniline
Authors: Khazalpour Sadegh , Nematollahi Davood
Published: April 2015

Syntheses of disulfonamides and sulfonamides were carried out via the electrooxidation of 4-nitroso-N,N-dimethylaniline in the presence of arylsulfinic acids and direct reaction of 4-nitroso-N,N-dimethylaniline with arylsulfinic acids, respectively.
Optofluidic guiding, valving, switching and mixing based on plasmonic heating in a random gold nanoisland substrate
Authors: Chen Jiajie , Kang Zhiwen , Wang Guanghui , Loo Jacky , Kong Siu Kai , Ho Ho-Pui
Published: April 2015

We present a versatile optofluidic flow manipulation scheme based on plasmonic heating in a random gold nanoisland substrate (Au-NIS).
Synthesis and biological properties of multivalent iminosugars
Authors: Zelli Renaud , Longevial Jean-François , Dumy Pascal , Marra Alberto
Published: April 2015

Clustering 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), first isolated from white mulberry, and other iminosugars around various scaffolds gave strong glycosidase inhibitors.
Variation of through-space magnetic response properties upon the formation of cation–π interactions: a survey of [Ag(η-CH2CH2)3]+via DFT calculations
Authors: Camacho Gonzalez J. , Morales-Verdejo C. , Muñoz-Castro A.
Published: April 2015

An analysis of a through-space-induced magnetic field allows to obtain a better understanding of cation–π interactions from a prototypically weak π-complex, namely, [Ag(η-C2H4)3]+.
Heterogeneous Fe-MIL-101 catalysts for efficient one-pot four-component coupling synthesis of highly substituted pyrroles
Authors: Tang Jia , Yang Mu , Yang Ming , Wang Jingjing , Dong Wenjun , Wang Ge
Published: April 2015

Fe-MIL-101 as efficient heterogeneous catalysts for four-component coupling synthesis of highly substituted pyrroles.
Organic solvent soluble methyltriphenylphosphonium peroxodisulfate: a novel oxidant for the synthesis of polyaniline and the thus prepared polyaniline in high performance supercapacitors
Authors: Rajender Boddula , Palaniappan Srinivasan
Published: April 2015

Nanostructured polyanilines for high performance pseudocapacitors are successfully prepared using a novel oxidant. This methodology will be useful for conducting polyaniline blends.
Synthesis of 4(3H)quinazolinimines by reaction of (E)-N-(aryl)-acetimidoyl or -benzimidoyl chloride with amines
Authors: Quintero Celso , Valderrama Mauricio , Becerra Alexandra , Daniliuc Constantin G. , Rojas Rene S.
Published: April 2015

The reaction of (E)-N-(2-cyanophenyl)benzimidoyl chloride with substituted anilines, chiral amines, or diamine, getting fused quinazoliniminium heterocyclic compounds under mild reaction conditions.
Thioimidazoline based compounds reverse glucocorticoid resistance in human acute lymphoblastic leukemia xenografts
Authors: Toscan Cara E. , Rahimi Marwa , Bhadbhade Mohan , Pickford Russell , McAlpine Shelli R. , Lock Richard B.
Published: April 2015

Glucocorticoids form a critical component of chemotherapy regimens for pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia and initial poor response to glucocorticoid therapy is predictive of inferior outcome.
Water-borne thiol–isocyanate click chemistry in microfluidics: rapid and energy-efficient preparation of uniform particles
Authors: Tan Jiaojun , Li Chunmei , Li Hui , Zhang Hao , Gu Junwei , Zhang Baoliang , Zhang Hepeng , Zhang Qiuyu
Published: April 2015

A nucleophile-catalyzed thiol–isocyanate reaction has been exploited as an efficient route to fabricate uniform particles in a water-borne system.
Protonated mesoporous graphitic carbon nitride for rapid and highly efficient removal of microcystins
Authors: Huang Chuanhui , Zhang Wenmin , Yan Zhiming , Gao Jia , Liu Wei , Tong Ping , Zhang Lan
Published: April 2015

A novel biomaterial, protonated mesoporous graphitic carbon nitride (mpg-C3N4–H+) which is fabricated by treating mpg-C3N4with concentrated hydrochloric acid, is applied as a promising bioadsorbent for the uptake of microcystins (MCs).
Improved performance for white phosphorescent organic light-emitting diodes utilizing an orange ultrathin non-doped emission layer
Authors: Xue Kaiwen , Sheng Ren , Chen Bingye , Duan Yu , Chen Ping , Yang Yongqiang , Wang Xiao , Duan Yahui , Zhao Yi
Published: April 2015

The chemical structures of materials, the device structures (a) and the detailed energy level diagram of the materials (b).
Experimental design for simultaneous analysis of malachite green and methylene blue; derivative spectrophotometry and principal component-artificial neural network
Authors: Ghaedi M. , Hajati S. , Zare M. , Zare M. , Shajaripour Jaberi S. Y.
Published: April 2015

In this study, oxidized multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) with sizes in the range of 10–30 nm were efficiently applied for simultaneous and competitive adsorption of malachite green (MG) and methylene blue (MB).
Hydrotreatment of renewable oils using hierarchical mesoporous H-ZSM-5 synthesized from kaolin clay
Authors: Kumar Rohit , Rana Bharat S. , Verma Deepak , Rayaroth Swaroop , Prasad V. S. , Sinha Anil K.
Published: April 2015

Hierarchical mesoporous ZSM-5 with tailored physicochemical properties was successfully synthesized by using kaolin clay as a cheap alumina source and organosilane as a mesopore directing agent.
Liquid crystal alignment behavior on transparent cellulose films
Authors: Kang Hyo , Lee Jong-Chan , Nam Byeong-uk , Bae Jin Woo
Published: April 2015

The liquid crystal (LC) alignment properties of LC cells fabricated with plant-based cellulose films were investigated.
Electrochemical proton reduction catalysed by selenolato-manganese carbonyl complexes
Authors: Hou Kaipeng , Lauw Sherman J. L. , Webster Richard D. , Fan Wai Yip
Published: April 2015

Four manganese selenolato carbonyl complexes have been synthesized and used as electrocatalyst for proton reduction.
Enhanced visible-light photocatalytic performance of BiOBr/UiO-66(Zr) composite for dye degradation with the assistance of UiO-66
Authors: Sha Zhou , Wu Jishan
Published: April 2015

A BiOBr/UiO-66(Zr) composite was used as visible-light promoted photocatalyst for the degradation of rhodamine B with high activity and good catalyst stability.
Luminescence properties of the pink emitting persistent phosphor Pr3+-doped La3GaGe5O16
Authors: Zhang Shaoan , Hu Yihua , Chen Li , Ju GuiFang , Wang Tao , Wang Zhonghua
Published: April 2015

The pink persistent phosphor La3GaGe5O16:Pr3+was prepared successfullyviaa traditional solid state reaction method.
AMPK-mediated crosstalk of heteroglycan-induced reactive species and autophagic cascade in RAW 264.7 cells
Authors: Devi K. Sanjana P. , Das Joyjyoti , Kumari Kalpana , Singh Prashant , Behera Birendra , Maiti T. K.
Published: April 2015

AMPK mediates the crosstalk among heteroglycan-induced autophagy and reactive species in RAW 264.7 cells.
Xylene gas sensor based on α-MoO3/α-Fe2O3heterostructure with high response and low operating temperature
Authors: Jiang Dingsheng , Wei Wei , Li Feng , Li Yujia , Liu Caixia , Sun Dongming , Feng Caihui , Ruan Shengping
Published: April 2015

α-MoO3nanobelts covered with α-Fe2O3were successfully preparedviatwo steps hydrothermal treatment strategy. α-MoO3/α-Fe2O3composites showed a high response to xylene at a low operating temperature.
Fabrication and characterization of carboxymethylated bael fruit gum with potential mucoadhesive applications
Authors: Srivastava Atul , Gowda Devegowda Vishakante , Hani Umme , Shinde Chetan Govindrao , Osmani Riyaz Ali M.
Published: April 2015

Carboxymethylation of bael fruit gum was achieved through its reaction with monochloroacetic acid in the presence of sodium hydroxide as a catalyst at different reaction conditions.
Hierarchical ZnO@MnO2@PPy ternary core–shell nanorod arrays: an efficient integration of active materials for energy storage
Authors: Ma Wenqin , Shi Qiangqiang , Nan Honghong , Hu Qingqing , Zheng Xiaoting , Geng Baoyou , Zhang Xiaojun
Published: April 2015

In this paper, ZnO@MnO2@PPy ternary core–shell nanorod arrays (NRAs) were fabricated through the layer-by-layer process.
Dicoumarol assisted synthesis of water dispersible gold nanoparticles for colorimetric sensing of cysteine and lysozyme in biofluids
Authors: Kasibabu Betha Saineelima B. , Bhamore Jigna R. , D'souza Stephanie L. , Kailasa Suresh Kumar
Published: April 2015

A schematic representation of the mechanism for the colorimetric sensing of Cys and Lys using DIC–Au NPs as a probe.
Insights into the structure–photoreactivity relationships in well-defined perovskite ferroelectric KNbO3 nanowires
Authors: Zhang Tingting , Lei Wanying , Liu Ping , Rodriguez José A. , Yu Jiaguo , Qi Yang , Liu Gang , Liu Minghua
Published: April 2015

1D perovskite-type orthorhombic KNbO3 nanowires display RhB photodegradation about two-fold as large as their monoclinic counterparts and a synergy between ferroelectric polarization and electronic structure in photoreactivity enhancement is uncovered.
Highly enantioselective sulfa-Michael addition reactions using N-heterocyclic carbene as a non-covalent organocatalyst
Authors: Chen Jiean , Meng Sixuan , Wang Leming , Tang Hongmei , Huang Yong
Published: April 2015

Enantioselective asymmetric sulfa-Michael addition (SMA) reactions using a chiralN-heterocyclic carbene as a non-covalent organocatalyst.
Cobalt-catalysed asymmetric hydrovinylation of 1,3-dienes
Authors: Timsina Yam N. , Sharma Rakesh K. , RajanBabu T. V.
Published: April 2015

Excellent selectivity with complexes of DIOP, BDPP and Josiphos withE-1,3-dienes reacting faster than theZ-isomers at low temperatures.
Three-dimensional NiCo2O4@NiMoO4 core/shell nanowires for electrochemical energy storage
Authors: Gu Zhengxiang , Nan Honghong , Geng Baoyou , Zhang Xiaojun
Published: April 2015

Integrated nanodevices with the capability of storing energy are widely applicable and thus have been studied extensively.
Highly sensitive H2S detection sensors at low temperature based on hierarchically structured NiO porous nanowall arrays
Authors: Yu Tingting , Cheng XiaoLi , Zhang Xianfa , Sui Lili , Xu Yingming , Gao Shan , Zhao Hui , Huo Lihua
Published: April 2015

NiO porous nanowall arrays have been successfully grown in situ on ceramic tubes by a hydrothermal reaction, combined with a calcination process. With such unique hierarchical pores, the array film sensor displayed excellent sensing performance toward H2S.
Amidoxime-modified mesoporous silica for uranium adsorption under seawater conditions
Authors: Gunathilake Chamila , Górka Joanna , Dai Shen , Jaroniec Mietek
Published: April 2015

Amidoxime-modified ordered mesoporous silica (OMS) materials were prepared by co-condensation synthesis of OMS with cyanopropyl groups followed by their conversion into amidoxime groups, and tested for uranium adsorption under seawater conditions.
Monolithic graded-refractive-index glass-based antireflective coatings: broadband/omnidirectional light harvesting and self-cleaning characteristics
Authors: Aytug Tolga , Lupini Andrew R. , Jellison Gerald E. , Joshi Pooran C. , Ivanov Ilia H. , Liu Tao , Wang Peng , Menon Rajesh , Trejo Rosa M. , Lara-Curzio Edgar , Hunter Scott R. , Simpson John T. , Paranthaman M. Parans , Christen David K.
Published: April 2015

A coating that embodies omnidirectional optical properties over a wide range of wavelengths and possessing specific wetting capabilities is established on glass platforms.
Efficient blue/white phosphorescent organic light-emitting diodes based on a silicon-based host material via a direct carbon–nitrogen bond
Authors: Xie Yue-Min , Cui Lin-Song , Liu Yuan , Zu Feng-Shuo , Li Qian , Jiang Zuo-Quan , Liao Liang-Sheng
Published: April 2015

A silicon-based host materials BCz–Si via direct C–Si bond was successfully constructed with effective backbone of 3,3′-bicarbazole (BCz).
Effects of monoolein-based cubosome formulations on lipid droplets and mitochondria of HeLa cells
Authors: Falchi Angela Maria , Rosa Antonella , Atzeri Angela , Incani Alessandra , Lampis Sandrina , Meli Valeria , Caltagirone Claudia , Murgia Sergio
Published: April 2015

Analysis of living cells after staining with organelle-specific dyes shows that monoolein-based cubosome treatment induces accumulation of lipid droplets (green) and mitochondrial (red) hyperpolarization.
Toxicology Research New Talents themed issue
Authors: Gooderham Nigel J.
Published: April 2015

Editor-in-Chief Nigel Gooderham introduces the New Talents themed issue of Toxicology Research.
Efficient scan matching method using direction distribution
Authors: Ryu Hyejeong , Chung Wan Kyun
Published: April 2015

An efficient scan matching method that uses direction distributions of two‐dimensional laser scans is proposed. Using line fitting with each point in the scan, together with the neighbouring two points, the distribution of these line directions is computed. The direction distribution represents a measure of the geometric tendency of the scan, and this can be used to compute similarities between scans. This approach can be applied to select scans in a scan database that have high probabilities of being closely aligned with the current scan. Moreover, an initial estimate of the rotational displacement between two scans can be obtained, and scan matching can be accomplished efficiently even with a large rotational displacement between scans.
Three‐leg inverter configuration for simultaneous dual‐frequency induction hardening with independent control
Authors: Porpandiselvi S. , Vishwanathan Neti
Published: April 2015

Parts of certain objects need hardening. Hardening is a heat treatment process which can be achieved by induction heating. Certain objects like gears require alternating source with two different frequencies. Simultaneous application of dual frequencies is desirable for proper hardening of a gear. This study proposes a three‐leg inverter topology with a load resonant circuit which can provide independent and simultaneous control of low‐frequency (LF) and high‐frequency (HF) currents through the load coil. The load circuit is a combination of two series resonant circuits which operates at the desired LF and HF. Power control is achieved with phase modulation and asymmetric duty cycle control techniques. A 240 W prototype of the proposed dual‐frequency inverter is implemented and tested. Experimental results obtained are in good agreement with the simulation results.
Hyper‐plane sliding mode control of the DC–DC buck/boost converter in continuous and discontinuous conduction modes of operation
Authors: Salimi Mahdi , Soltani Jafar , Zakipour Adel , Abjadi Navid Reza
Published: April 2015

In this study, a new proportional–integral‐type hyper‐plane sliding mode controller has been designed for output voltage control of the DC–DC buck/boost converter for its continuous and discontinuous conduction modes of operating conditions. The proposed controller is robust and stable against parameters uncertainties, load disturbance and variations of the converter input voltage. In addition, it is capable of cancelling the non‐minimum phase nature effect of the converter so that the designed controller does not need to know the inductor reference current. Moreover, the coefficients of the controller have been designed so that the steady‐state error of the converter asymptotically converges to zero. The controller is designed based on fixed‐frequency equivalent control approach. Using MATLAB/SIMULINK toolbox and digital signal processor (TMS320F2810) from Texas Instruments, some simulation and practical results are presented to verify the capability and effectiveness of the proposed control approach.
Frequency fuzzy anti‐islanding for grid‐connected and islanding operation in distributed generation systems
Authors: Aguiar Cassius R. , Bastos Renan F. , Gonçalves Amilcar F.Q. , Neves Rodolpho V.A. , Reis Giann B. , Machado Ricardo Q.
Published: April 2015

This study proposes an islanding detection method for distributed generation systems, namely frequency fuzzy positive feedback (FFPF).The goal is to reduce the injection of disturbances, from the anti‐islanding methods, during the grid‐connected operation, as well as standardise the PF gain, with no adjustments needed according to the type of loads. This method is designed from fuzzy inference rules and two inputs are also considered in the design procedure. Since the classical active methods do not identify whether the frequency variation arises from the islanding condition or from a power quality issue in the grid, the fuzzy PF enables the proposed method to differentiate the islanding condition from other grid events. In contrast to classical methods that have a fixed PF gain, a dynamic fuzzy gain that adapts to any type of load is obtained by means of the fuzzy inference rules. The classical active technique is compared with the proposed approach in terms of detection time and injected disturbances during the grid‐connected operation. The simulation and experimental results are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Low‐power single‐stage power factor rectifier based on discontinuous capacitor voltage mode double‐ended forward converter
Authors: Yang Jianbo , Faris Al‐Naemi , Zhang Weiping
Published: April 2015

A double‐ended forward converter with an input inductor‐capacitor (LC) filter operating in discontinuous capacitor voltage mode is proposed in this study. The most important advantage of the proposed topology is that the operations of the proposed converter make the switches bear only a portion of the peak capacitor voltage without any extra control and auxiliary winding, which result in a relatively low switches voltage stress. This study presents a detailed analysis of the switch voltage stress. The experimental results for a 36 Vdc/100 W are presented.