bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Greater prairie‐chicken brood‐site selection and survival in the Nebraska sandhills
Authors: Anderson Lars C. , Powell Larkin A. , Schacht Walter H. , Lusk Jeffrey J. , Vodehnal William L.
Published: April 2015

The greater prairie‐chicken (Tympanuchus cupido pinnatus) is a grassland bird species of conservation concern, although the region of the Nebraska Sandhills has the largest and most stable population in North America. The Sandhills region is semiarid and dominated by privately owned rangeland; vegetation in the region is typically less dense than the tall grass ecosystem. Most management recommendations for the greater prairie‐chicken are based on work in tall grass prairies, so our goal was to estimate the responses of brood‐site selection and survival to the unique vegetation characteristics of the Sandhills region. We studied prairie‐chickens on private rangelands in Rock and Brown Counties from 2009 to 2011. We radio‐marked 139 females and monitored females with broods from May through July using pickup‐mounted and handheld telemetry systems. We used discrete choice models to assess micro‐scale habitat selection within used pastures. Specifically, we investigated the effect of local heterogeneity of vegetation structure and composition on site selection. The contiguous grasslands of the Sandhills contain variation in soils, slope, and proximity to water table, so we also assessed selection of these ecological sites (the equivalent of land‐use categories in fragmented landscapes) for brood‐rearing within the broad landscape (macro‐scale). Last, we assessed variation in brood survival in response to weather and vegetation structure and composition. Prairie‐chicken females with broods selected sands ecological sites (upland, rolling hills sites) that had thicker vegetation with higher visual obstruction reading (VOR;  = 7.7 cm, SE = 0.4), more variable VOR ( = 20.1, ±2.1), and greater litter depth ( = 0.07 cm, ±0.01) than at coupled random locations (VOR:  = 6.6 cm, ±0.1; variance VOR:  = 15.6, ±0.8; litter depth:  = 0.05 cm, ±0.01). The selection function for brood sites peaked for sites with approximately 10 cm VOR, which was significantly less than the range of 20–30 cm of visual obstruction suggested for management of tallgrass prairies. In fact, only 5.0% of random sites and 5.4% of sites used by hens with broods had VOR >20 cm. However, VOR and litter depth did not explain variability in brood survival, and we found considerable uncertainty in our analysis of daily survival. Models with forb cover were ranked highest in the survival analyses (combined ωAIC
c
 = 0.63), which provided some support for a positive effect of forb cover on brood survival (βforb cover = 0.327, SE = 0.337). We suggest that land managers in the Sandhills region provide brooding habitat in grazed, upland ecological sites that is characterized by minimal bare ground, a consistent distribution of litter, a forb component, and VOR levels of 4–11 cm in pastures in the vicinity of leks. © 2015 The Wildlife Society.
Dispersion and Property Enhancements in Polyolefin/Soy Flour Biocomposites Prepared via Melt Extrusion Followed by Solid‐State Shear Pulverization
Authors: Iyer Krishnan A. , Torkelson John M.
Published: April 2015

Biocomposites of low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) and polypropylene (PP) with 5–40 wt% soy flour (SF) are produced by two‐step single‐screw extrusion (SSE) followed by solid‐state shear pulverization (SSSP). The SSE‐SSSP approach overcomes limitations with melt mixing, e.g poor SF dispersion and degradation, and limitations with single‐step SSSP. Microscopy shows that SF is well dispersed in SSE‐SSSP composites but agglomerated and degraded in melt‐mixed composites. The SSE‐SSSP composites exhibit major improvements in Young's modulus relative to neat polymer, including 74 and 43% increases in 80/20 wt% LDPE/SF and 95/5 wt% PP/SF composites, respectively. Relative to neat polymer, SSE‐SSSP composites exhibit the largest improvements in Young's modulus and best tensile strengths reported for polyolefin/SF composites. Crystallization and viscosity are only slightly affected by SF in the composites. At 20% and higher mass loss, char can result in greater thermo‐oxidative stability of 80/20 wt% polyolefin/SF composites relative to neat polymer.
Catalyst‐Transfer Condensation Polymerization of Acceptor Aromatic Monomers and of Donor Carbon‐Carbon Double Bond‐Containing Monomers
Authors: Yokozawa Tsutomu , Nanashima Yutaka , Nojima Masataka , Ohta Yoshihiro
Published: April 2015

Recent developments in catalyst‐transfer condensation polymerization (CTCP), which proceeds in a chain‐growth polymerization manner, have made it possible to synthesize well‐defined π‐conjugated polymers with controlled molecular weight and low polydispersity, as well as block copolymers and gradient copolymers. However, CTCP has been limited to the polymerization of donor monomers (such as thiophene) for the synthesis of p‐type π‐conjugated polymers. Here, we highlight several recent advances in CTCP of acceptor aromatic monomers and monomers conjugated with carbon‐carbon double bond, the π‐donation ability of which is stronger than donor aromatic rings. In the former polymerization, well‐defined poly(pyridine‐3,5‐diyl), poly(benzotriazole), poly(fluorene‐alt‐benzothiaziazole), and poly(bithiophene‐alt‐naphthalene diimide) were obtained. In the latter polymerization, however, the obtained poly(p‐phenylenevinylene) possessed broad molecular weight distribution.
Controlled Polymerization of Phenylacetylenes Using Well‐Defined Rhodium Catalysts
Authors: Sanda Fumio , Shiotsuki Masashi , Masuda Toshio
Published: April 2015

This article deals with (1) the controlled polymerization of an optically active phenylacetylene (PA) derivative using well defined rhodium (Rh) catalyst, [(nbd)Rh{C(Ph)=CPh2}(PPh3)] and the study on the molecular weight dependence of the chirality (degree of helix formation and predominance of one‐handed helicity) of the formed polymers, (2) examination of the polymer end structures by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight (MALDI‐TOF) mass spectrometry, (3) development of a novel Rh complex coordinated by a tridentate ligand, and [{nbd‐(CH2)4PPh2}Rh{C(Ph)=CPh2}] and the polymerization of PA in a controlled manner.
Synthesis of Amphiphilic Three‐Armed Star Random Copolymers via Living Radical Polymerization and their Unimolecular Folding Properties in Water
Authors: Sugita Takanori , Matsumoto Kazuma , Terashima Takaya , Sawamoto Mitsuo
Published: April 2015

Amphiphilic three‐armed star random copolymers were synthesized by ruthenium‐catalyzed living radical copolymerization of hydrophilic poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate (PEGMA) and hydrophobic dodecyl methacrylate (DMA). Their amphiphilic star random copolymers with 10‐50 mol% DMA efficiently self‐folded in water with intramolecular hydrophobic interaction to form compact unimolecular micelles. Owing to PEG segments, star copolymers were thermoresponsive to induce lower critical solution temperature‐type phase separation in water.
Stereospecific Anionic Polymerization of α‐(Hydroxymethyl)acrylate with Protective Group
Authors: Kohsaka Yasuhiro , Suzawa Kazuha , Kitayama Tatsuki
Published: April 2015

Anionic polymerizations of hydroxyl‐protected α‐(hydroxymethyl)acrylates were investigated. The methyl ester with methoxymethyl (1‐MOM) and allyl (1‐allyl) protecting groups were polymerized by isopropyl α‐lithioisobutyrate (Li‐iPrIB) in toluene at −78 °C, affording highly isotactic polymers. Similarly, the polymerization of ethyl ester (2‐MOM) gave an isotactic polymer, while those of t‐butyl (3‐MOM) and isobutyl (4‐MOM) ester did not form any polymeric products. The hydrolysis of poly(2‐MOM) in acidic conditions resulted in the deprotection of MOM group, although the acid also catalyzed the ester exchange between the neighboring units to form lactone units, as observed by 1H NMR analysis, IR spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. A film of poly(2‐MOM) exposed to HCl vapor for 2 h became insoluble in any organic solvents due to the lactonization in solid state.
The relationship between cerebrospinal fluid tau markers, hippocampal volume, and delayed primacy performance in cognitively intact elderly individuals
Authors: Bruno Davide , Grothe Michel J. , Nierenberg Jay , Teipel Stefan J. , Zetterberg Henrik , Blennow Kaj , Pomara Nunzio
Published: April 2015

Background

Primacy performance in recall has been shown to predict cognitive decline in cognitively intact elderly and conversion from mild cognitive impairment to Alzheimer's disease (AD). Delayed primacy performance, but not delayed nonprimacy performance, has been shown to be associated with hippocampal volume in cognitively intact older individuals. Because presence of neurofibrillary tangles is an early sign of AD‐related pathology, we set out to test whether cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) levels of tau had an effect on delayed primacy performance, while controlling for hippocampal volume and CSF amyloid‐β 1‐42 levels.

Methods

Forty‐seven individuals, aged 60 years or older and cognitively intact, underwent a multisession study including lumbar puncture, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the head, and memory testing.

Results

Our regression analyses show that CSF levels of hyperphosphorylated (P) tau are only associated with reduced delayed primacy performance when hippocampal volumes are smaller.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that hippocampal size may play a protective role against the negative effects of P tau on memory.
Rates of formal diagnosis of dementia in primary care: The effect of screening
Authors: Eichler Tilly , Thyrian Jochen René , Hertel Johannes , Michalowsky Bernhard , Wucherer Diana , Dreier Adina , Kilimann Ingo , Teipel Stefan , Hoffmann Wolfgang
Published: April 2015

Background

Screening could improve recognition of dementia in primary care. We sought to determine the effect of screening for dementia in primary care practices on the formal diagnosis rate; the distribution of differential diagnoses; and the factors associated with receiving a formal diagnosis.

Methods

The “Dementia: life‐ and person‐centered help in Mecklenburg‐Western Pomerania” is an ongoing general practitioner (GP)‐based, randomized, controlled intervention trial. A total of 4064 community dwelling patients (aged ≥70 years) were screened for dementia in 108 GP practices. Of these patients, 692 (17%) had positive screening results (DemTect score <9). Of these 692 patients, 406 (59%) provided informed consent. The analyses included the data from 243 patients with a complete baseline assessment (preliminary data; January 2014).

Results

Of 146 patients without a formal diagnosis of dementia, 72 (49%) received a formal diagnosis after a positive screening outcome (69% with “unspecified dementia”). Female sex was significantly associated with receiving a formal diagnosis (multivariate analyses).

Conclusion

Screening improved the identification of dementia considerably. Because of the risk of receiving a false‐positive diagnosis, additional diagnostic assessment should be mandatory.
Can agrin cerebrospinal fluid concentration be used as an early biomarker for Alzheimer's disease?
Authors: Del Campo Milan Marta , Zuroff Leah , Jimenez Connie R. , Scheltens Philip , Teunissen Charlotte E.
Published: April 2015

The need for effective treatments halting Alzheimer's disease (AD) urges the discovery of the earliest possible biomarkers. Agrin is increased in the early stages of AD and is involved in amyloid‐β (Aβ) fibrillation and synaptogenesis. We investigated the potential of agrin as an early AD cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarker. We analyzed the agrin CSF concentration in nondemented controls (n = 20) and those with mild (n = 20) and severe (n = 20) AD. The levels of agrin CSF were not significantly divergent among the different patient groups and did not correlate with the concentration of Aβ42, total tau, phosphorylated tau, or the Mini Mental State Examination scores. However, agrin strongly correlated with age in those with dementia. The results indicate that agrin cannot be used as an early AD CSF biomarker using the current immunoassay. However, our population was relatively young; thus, the correlation between agrin and age suggests that stronger differences in agrin concentrations might be found in older groups with more heterogeneous AD pathologic features.
Poor Vitamin C Status is Associated with Increased Depression Symptoms Following Acute Illness in Older People
Authors: Gariballa Salah
Published: April 2015

Background: Vitamin C has important physical and mental health benefits and plasma concentrations reflect recent intakes. Inflammation associated with any acute illness can lead to poor appetite and low food intake in older people. The aims of this report were to assess the prevalence and clinical significance of vitamin C deficiency among hospitalized acutely-ill older patients. Methods: Three hundred and twenty two patients (152 [47 %] female), aged 65 yrs. and over who took part in a randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled trial had their nutritional status assessed from anthropometric, hematological and biochemical data at baseline, and after 6 weeks and 6 months. Vitamin C was measured using a fluorimetric technique and logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the influence of a number of clinical indicators, including tissue inflammation measured using C-reactive protein on vitamin C concentrations. Clinical outcome measures including symptoms of depression were also compared between patients with vitamin C deficiency and those with normal levels. Results: At baseline, 116 (36 %) patients had a vitamin C concentration below 11 µmol/L indicating biochemical depletion. The figures at 6 weeks and 6 months were 28 (22 %) and 44 (28 %) patients, respectively. Older age, male gender, smoking, increased dependency and tissue inflammation were associated with lower vitamin C concentrations. Patients with vitamin C biochemical depletion had significantly increased symptoms of depression compared with those with higher concentrations at baseline (p = 0.035) and at 6 weeks (p = 0.028). Conclusions: A high proportion of older patients had sub-optimal vitamin C status and this was associated with increased symptoms of depression.
Fish Oil Supplementation, Resting Blood Flow and Markers of Cellular Metabolism during Incremental ExerciseFish Oil Supplementation, Resting Blood Flow and Markers of Cellular Metabolism During Incremental Exercise
Authors: Pearson Stephen J. , Johnson Thomas , Robins Anna
Published: April 2015

Dietary supplementation of fish oils (n-3 PUFA) have been observed to affect insulin action and hence metabolism, affecting the ability to carry out work. Here we examine the effects of fish oil supplementation in conjunction with a glucose load during exertion, on markers of substrate utilization. A pre-test, post-test design was performed on ten healthy young males to assess the effects of 4 weeks fish oil supplementation on muscle metabolism during incremental exertion. Breath-by-breath analysis for respiratory exchange ratio (RER) along with blood lactate and blood glucose were determined at baseline, during exercise following an acute glucose bolus (10 % solution at 4 mL/kg/bw), and again following supplementation of 4.2 g.day-1 (2.2 g EPA, 1.4 g DHA). To examine the effect of fish oil on blood flow, Doppler ultrasound was used to assess femoral blood flow at rest. Following consumption of fish oils, exercising blood glucose and RER were seen to change significantly (4.66 ± 0.44 vs. 4.58 ± 0.31 mmol.L-1 and 0.97 ± 0.03 vs. 0.99 ± 0.04; p<0.05). Resting femoral arterial blood flow was seen to increase significantly (p<0.05) pre- to post- test; 0.26 ± 0.02 - 0.30 ± 0.03 L.min-1. Specific population groups such as those undertaking high-intensity exercise, and clinical groups such as intermittent claudicants, may benefit from the effects of fish oil supplementation.Abstract: Dietary supplementation of fish oils (n-3 PUFA) have been observed to affect insulin action and hence metabolism, affecting the ability to carry out work. Here we examine the effects of fish oil supplementation in conjunction with a glucose load during exertion, on markers of substrate utilization. A pre-test, post-test design was performed on ten healthy young males to assess the effects of 4 weeks fish oil supplementation on muscle metabolism during incremental exertion. Breath-by-breath analysis for respiratory exchange ratio (RER) along with blood lactate and blood glucose were determined at baseline, during exercise following an acute glucose bolus (10 % solution at 4 mL/kg/bw), and again following supplementation of 4.2 g.day-1 (2.2 g EPA, 1.4 g DHA). To examine the effect of fish oil on blood flow, Doppler ultrasound was used to assess femoral blood flow at rest. Following consumption of fish oils, exercising blood glucose and RER were seen to change significantly (4.66 ± 0.44 vs. 4.58 ± 0.31 mmol.L-1 and 0.97 ± 0.03 vs. 0.99 ± 0.04; p < 0.05). Resting femoral arterial blood flow was seen to increase significantly (p < 0.05) pre- to post- test; 0.26 ± 0.02 - 0.30 ± 0.03 L.min-1. Specific population groups such as those undertaking high-intensity exercise, and clinical groups such as intermittent claudicants, may benefit from the effects of fish oil supplementation.
The Anti-Atherogenic Properties of Sesamin are Mediated via Improved Macrophage Cholesterol Efflux Through PPARγ1-LXRα and MAPK Signaling
Authors: Majdalawieh Amin F. , Ro Hyo-Sung
Published: April 2015

Background: Foam cell formation resulting from disrupted macrophage cholesterol efflux, which is triggered by PPARγ1 and LXRα, is a hallmark of atherosclerosis. Sesamin and sesame oil exert anti-atherogenic effects in vivo. However, the exact molecular mechanisms underlying such effects are not fully understood. Aim: This study examines the potential effects of sesamin (0, 25, 50, 75, 100 μM) on PPARγ1 and LXRα expression and transcriptional activity as well as macrophage cholesterol efflux. Methods: PPARγ1 and LXRα expression and transcriptional activity are assessed by luciferase reporter assays. Macrophage cholesterol efflux is evaluated by ApoAI-specific cholesterol efflux assays. Results: The 50 μM, 75 μM, and 100 μM concentrations of sesamin up-regulated the expression of PPARγ1 (p< 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, respectively) and LXRα (p = 0.002, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, respectively) in a concentration-dependent manner. Moreover, 75 μM and 100 μM concentrations of sesamin led to 5.2-fold (p < 0.001) and 6.0-fold (p<0.001) increases in PPAR transcriptional activity and 3.9-fold (p< 0.001) and 4.2-fold (p < 0.001) increases in LXR transcriptional activity, respectively, in a concentration- and time-dependent manner via MAPK signaling. Consistently, 50 μM, 75 μM, and 100 μM concentrations of sesamin improved macrophage cholesterol efflux by 2.7-fold (p < 0.001), 4.2-fold (p < 0.001), and 4.2-fold (p < 0.001), respectively, via MAPK signaling. Conclusion: Our findings shed light on the molecular mechanism(s) underlying sesamins anti-atherogenic effects, which seem to be due, at least in part, to its ability to up-regulate PPARγ1 and LXRα expression and transcriptional activity, improving macrophage cholesterol efflux. We anticipate that sesamin may be used as a therapeutic agent for treating atherosclerosis.
McKnight Receives 2014 Hydrologic Sciences Award
Authors:   AGU
Published: April 2015

Diane McKnight received the 2014 Hydrologic Sciences Award at the 2014 American Geophysical Union Fall Meeting, held 15–19 December in San Francisco, Calif. The award is for outstanding contributions to the science of hydrology.
Carbohydrate–Protein Interactions: A 3D View by NMR
Authors: Ardá Ana , Canales Angeles , Cañada F. Javier , Jiménez-Barbero Jesús
Published: April 2015

NMR spectroscopy is a key tool for carbohydrate research. In studies with complex oligosaccharides there are limits to the amount of relevant structural information provided by these observables due to problems of signal overlapping, strong coupling and/or the scarcity of the key NOE information. Thus, there is an increasing need for additional parameters with structural information, such as residual dipolar couplings (RDCs), paramagnetic relaxation enhancements (PREs) or pseudo contact shifts (PCSs). Carbohydrates are rather flexible molecules. Therefore, NMR observables do not always correlate with a single conformer but with an ensemble of low free-energy conformers that can be accessed by thermal fluctuations. Depending on the system under study, different NMR approaches can be followed to characterize protein–carbohydrate interactions: the standard methodologies can usually be classified as “ligand-based” or “receptor-based”. The selection of the proper methodology is usually determined by the size of the receptor, the dissociation constant of the complex (KD), the availability of the labelled protein (15N, 13C) and the access to soluble receptors at enough concentration for NMR measurements.
Molecular Basis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Recognition by the C-Type Lectin DC-SIGN: from the Modulation of Innate Immune Response to the Design of Innovative Anti-inflammatory Drugs
Authors: Blattes Emilyne , Vercellone Alain , Silva-Gomes Sandro , Prandi Jacques , Nigou Jérôme
Published: April 2015

The dendritic cell-specific intracellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-3 grabbing non-integrin (DC-SIGN) is a C-type lectin receptor restricted to potent antigen-presenting cells and involved in multiple immune functions. Most particularly, it plays a role as a pattern recognition receptor for several viruses (HIV, Ebola, hepatitis C, cytomegalovirus and Dengue), parasites (Leishmania and Schistosoma mansoni) and bacteria (Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Helicobacter pylori and Klebsiella pneumoniae). We describe here DC-SIGN cell-type distribution and expression, structure and mechanisms of carbohydrate recognition, and functions, as well as associated signalling pathways. In addition, we discuss our current understanding of the molecular bases underlying the recognition by DC-SIGN of the major human pathogen M. tuberculosis. Finally, we illustrate how, by mimicking a strategy used by M. tuberculosis to undermine the host inflammatory response via targeting DC-SIGN, we were able to design innovative synthetic anti-inflammatory molecules.
Galactofuranose Biosynthesis: Discovery, Mechanisms and Therapeutic Relevance
Authors: Eppe Guillaume , El Bkassiny Sandy , Vincent Stéphane P.
Published: April 2015

Galactofuranose, the atypical and thermodynamically disfavored form of d-galactose, has in reality a very old history in chemistry and biochemistry. The purpose of this book chapter is to give an overview on the fundamental aspects of the galactofuranose biosynthesis, from the biological occurrence to the search of inhibitors.
Towards an ab initio description of the optical spectra of light-harvesting antennae: application to the CP29 complex of photosystem II
Authors: Jurinovich Sandro , Viani Lucas , Prandi Ingrid G. , Renger Thomas , Mennucci Benedetta
Published: April 2015

Only going beyond the static crystal picture through molecular dynamics simulations can a realistic excitonic picture of the light-harvesting complex CP29 be obtained using a multiscale polarizable QM/MM approach.
Specific adhesion of membranes simultaneously supports dual heterogeneities in lipids and proteins
Authors: Shindell O. , Mica N. , Ritzer M. , Gordon V. D.
Published: April 2015

Membrane adhesion mediated by one protein species simultaneously stabilizes both ordered-phase and disordered-phase heterogeneities, distinct from the non-adhered membrane.
(Hollow Au–Ag nanoparticles)–TiO2 composites for improved photocatalytic activity prepared from block copolymer-stabilized bimetallic nanoparticles
Authors: Li Na , Zhang Xiaoyu , Yuan Shulong , Zhang Xiaokai , Yuan Yuzhen , Li Xue
Published: April 2015

(Hollow AuAg nanoparticles)–TiO2 composite particles, showing higher photocatalytic activity, have been prepared.
Controlled decoration of the surface with macromolecules: polymerization on a self-assembled monolayer (SAM)
Authors: Murugan P. , Krishnamurthy Munusamy , Jaisankar Sellamuthu N. , Samanta Debasis , Mandal Asit Baran
Published: April 2015

Various methods of functionalization of surfaces with polymers and their applications have been critically reviewed.
Doping effects on the thermoelectric properties of pristine poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)
Authors: Zhang Biao , Wang Kan , Li Dongde , Cui Xudong
Published: April 2015

Electronic and thermoelectric properties of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) depend strongly on its geometric structure and the free charge concentration in the PEDOT crystals.
Investigations on permeation of water vapor through synthesized nanoporous zeolite membranes; a mass transfer model
Authors: Shirazian Saeed , Ashrafizadeh Seyed Nezameddin
Published: April 2015

Permeation of water vapor and methane through synthesized nanoporous zeolite membranes was studied in this work.
One pot synthesis of pyran-based heterocycles from benzyl halides as key reagents
Authors: Beerappa Mallappa , Shivashankar Kalegowda
Published: April 2015

Pyridine N-oxide and silver oxide have been demonstrated to be efficient and mild reagents for the one pot synthesis of pyran analogues from a variety of benzyl halides instead of benzaldehydes with short reaction times and excellent yields.
Applying a new interatomic potential for the modelling of hexagonal and orthorhombic YMnO3
Authors: Jiang Ning , Woodley Scott M. , Catlow C. Richard A. , Zhang X.
Published: April 2015

An effective tool for accurately describing the structure of hexagonal and orthorhombic YMnO3 simultaneously.
Direct-S: a directed mass spectrometry method for biomarker verification in native serum
Authors: Yin Hong-Rui , Xie Li-Qi , Xu Ye , Cai San-Jun , Yao Jun , Yang Peng-Yuan , Lu Hao-Jie
Published: April 2015

A targeted mass spectrometry method for direct quantification of protein biomarkers in native serum samples without pretreatment is described.
Dielectrophoretic isolation of cells using 3D microelectrodes featuring castellated blocks
Authors: Xing Xiaoxing , Yobas Levent
Published: April 2015

We demonstrate 3D microelectrodes featuring castellated blocks to facilitate dielectrophoretic trapping of cells near stagnation points for enhanced cell viability.
Evaluation of individual aging degree by standard-free, label-free LC-MS/MS quantification of formaldehyde-modified peptides
Authors: Zhang Mei , Xu Wei , Ke Ming , Xu Jianguo , Deng Yulin
Published: April 2015

In this study, a standard-free, label-free LC-MS/MS method is proposed to evaluate aging based on the cross-linkage theory.
Simultaneous detection of four nitrofuran metabolites in honey using high-throughput suspension array technology
Authors: Liu Ying-Chun , Jiang Wei , Chen Yong-Jun , Zeng Peng , Zhang Meng , Wang Quan
Published: April 2015

A new suspension array technology is proposed for the simultaneous quantitative detection of four major metabolites of nitrofurans in honey samples.
A peptide nucleic acid label-free biosensor for Mycobacterium tuberculosis DNA detection via azimuthally controlled grating-coupled SPR
Authors: Silvestri Davide , Sonato Agnese , Ruffato Gianluca , Meneghello Anna , Antognoli Agnese , Cretaio Erica , Dettin Monica , Zamuner Annj , Casarin Elisabetta , Zacco Gabriele , Romanato Filippo , Morpurgo Margherita
Published: April 2015

Label free pM detection ofM. tuberculosisDNA through optimized PNA probe-basedφ≠ 0° GC-SPR.
Rapid and simple preparation of remarkably stable binary nanoparticle planet–satellite assemblies
Authors: Borsley Stefan , Flook Sarah , Kay Euan R.
Published: April 2015

Homogeneous samples of binary nanoparticle planet–satellite superstructures are produced from simple building blocks in a rapid and readily scalable procedure that is tolerant to variations in building block size and shape.
Triplex molecular beacons for sensitive recognition of melamine based on abasic-site-containing DNA and fluorescent silver nanoclusters
Authors: Wang Ya , Sun Qianqian , Zhu Linling , Zhang Junying , Wang Fengyang , Lu Linlin , Yu Haijun , Xu Zhiai , Zhang Wen
Published: April 2015

A label-free and turn-on strategy based on a triplex molecular beacon for fluorescence melamine recognition with the signaling of Ag NCs was developed.
Primary hepatocyte imaging by multiphoton luminescent graphene quantum dots
Authors: Song Sung Ho , Jang Min-Ho , Jeong Jong-Min , Yoon Hyewon , Cho Yong-Hoon , Jeong Won-Il , Kim Bo-Hyun , Jeon Seokwoo
Published: April 2015

We demonstrate a successful application of water soluble graphene quantum dots for multiphoton fluorescence imaging of primary hepatocytes.
Tuned red NIR phosphorescence of polyurethane hybrid composites embedding metallic nanoclusters for oxygen sensing
Authors: Amela-Cortes Maria , Paofai Serge , Cordier Stéphane , Folliot Hervé , Molard Yann
Published: April 2015

Phosphorescent metallic clusters are functionalized and integrated in polyurethane by copolymerization. Solid state quantum yield measurements show a drastic and reversible enhancement of nanocomposite luminescence depending on its surrounding atmosphere.
Inhibited fragmentation of mAbs in buffered ionic liquids
Authors: Mazid Romiza R. , Vijayaraghavan R. , MacFarlane Douglas R. , Cortez-Jugo Christina , Cheng Wenlong
Published: April 2015

Choline-based buffered ionic liquids have been demonstrated to greatly inhibit enzymatic degradation of antibodies, and are promising as next-generation biological buffers.
Singlet oxygen generation from Li+@C60nano-aggregates dispersed by laser irradiation in aqueous solution
Authors: Ohkubo Kei , Kohno Naoki , Yamada Yusuke , Fukuzumi Shunichi
Published: April 2015

Lithium ion encapsulated fullerene was solubilised in water by laser irradiation, acting as a photosensitiser for singlet oxygen generation.
A multifunctional phosphorescent iridium(iii) complex for specific nucleus staining and hypoxia monitoring
Authors: Liu Shujuan , Liang Hua , Zhang Kenneth Yin , Zhao Qiang , Zhou Xiaobo , Xu Wenjuan , Huang Wei
Published: April 2015

A multifunctional phosphorescent iridium(iii) complex has been synthesized for specific nucleus staining and hypoxia monitoring through time-resolved luminescence imaging.
Preparation, structure, and versatile reactivity of pseudocyclic benziodoxole triflate, new hypervalent iodine reagent
Authors: Yoshimura Akira , Nguyen Khiem C. , Klasen Scott C. , Saito Akio , Nemykin Victor N. , Zhdankin Viktor V.
Published: April 2015

New, highly electrophilic hypervalent iodine reagent, triflate derivative of benziodoxole, was prepared and structurally characterized.
Palladium-catalyzed ring opening of norbornene: efficient synthesis of methylenecyclopentane derivatives
Authors: Wu Xin-Xing , Shen Yi , Chen Wen-Long , Chen Si , Hao Xin-Hua , Xia Yu , Xu Peng-Fei , Liang Yong-Min
Published: April 2015

The first palladium-catalyzed ring opening of norbornene to prepare methylenecyclopentane derivatives has been established.
Controllable synthesis and morphology evolution from two-dimensions to one-dimension of layered K2V6O16·nH2O
Authors: Kong Xingang , Guo Zhanglin , Wen Puhong , Huang Jianfeng , Cao Liyun , Yin Lixiong , Li Jiayin , Feng Qi
Published: April 2015

In a hydrothermal process, layered K2V6O16·2.7H2O platelike crystals are split into layered K2V6O16·1.5H2O fiberlike crystals.
Synthesis and characterization of multipod frameworks of Cu2O microcrystals and Cu7S4 hollow microcages
Authors: Zhang Hongdan , Zhang Ziqing , Li Benxian , Hua Yingjie , Wang Chongtai , Zhao Xudong , Liu Xiaoyang
Published: April 2015

The 14-pod Cu2O frameworks are first prepared through control of the ratios of n-butyl alcohol to water.
Limits and potentials of quantum chemical methods in modelling photosynthetic antennae
Authors: Jurinovich Sandro , Viani Lucas , Curutchet Carles , Mennucci Benedetta
Published: April 2015

A critical overview of quantum chemical approaches to simulate the light-harvesting process in photosynthetic antennae is presented together with a perspective on the developments that need to be introduced to reach a quantitative predictive power.
Amplified electron transfer at poly-ethylene-glycol (PEG) grafted electrodes
Authors: Hotchen Christopher E. , Maybury Ian J. , Nelson Geoffrey W. , Foord John S. , Holdway Philip , Marken Frank
Published: April 2015

Electron transfer at pegylated electrode surfaces is suppressed for Fe(CN)63−/4− and then recovered in the presence of ferrocene-dimethanol.
Adsorbate enhancement of electron emission during the quenching of metastable CO at metal surfaces
Authors: Engelhart Daniel P. , Wagner Roman J. V. , Johnsen Peter C. , Wodtke Alec M. , Schäfer Tim
Published: April 2015

A monolayer of adsorbed rare gas dramatically enhances electron emission when quenching CO(a3Π) at metal surfaces.
Structural, photophysical and magnetic properties of transition metal complexes based on the dipicolylamino-chloro-1,2,4,5-tetrazine ligand
Authors: Nazarenko Iuliia , Pop Flavia , Sun Qinchao , Hauser Andreas , Lloret Francesc , Julve Miguel , El-Ghayoury Abdelkrim , Avarvari Narcis
Published: April 2015

Tuning structural, luminescence and magnetic properties of the complexes of a chloro-tetrazine-dipicolylamine ligand by coordination to four different metal ions.
Influence of substituents on cation–anion contacts in imidazolium perrhenates
Authors: Reich Robert M. , Cokoja Mirza , Markovits Iulius I. E. , Münchmeyer Christian J. , Kaposi Marlene , Pöthig Alexander , Herrmann Wolfgang A. , Kühn Fritz E.
Published: April 2015

A series of imidazolium perrhenates with different substituents at the imidazolium ring were synthesised and characterised, including single crystal X-ray diffraction.
Solvent-induced secondary building unit (SBU) variations in a series of Cu(ii) metal–organic frameworks derived from a bifunctional ligand
Authors: Chen Di-Ming , Ma Jian-Gong , Cheng Peng
Published: April 2015

Three new three-dimensional (3D) Cu(ii) metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) with interesting SBU variations have been successfully constructed under solvothermal conditions by using a bifunctional ligand. The structural features of the three MOFs and CO2 sorption performances were studied.
Unassisted solar-driven photoelectrosynthetic HI splitting using membrane-embedded Si microwire arrays
Authors: Ardo Shane , Park Sang Hee , Warren Emily L. , Lewis Nathan S.
Published: April 2015

Demonstration of unassisted solar-driven photoelectrosynthetic hydriodic acid splitting using freestanding membrane-embedded Si microwire arrays.
Size and deformability based separation of circulating tumor cells from castrate resistant prostate cancer patients using resettable cell traps
Authors: Qin Xi , Park Sunyoung , Duffy Simon P. , Matthews Kerryn , Ang Richard R. , Todenhöfer Tilman , Abdi Hamid , Azad Arun , Bazov Jenny , Chi Kim N. , Black Peter C. , Ma Hongshen
Published: April 2015

Separation of CTCs using resettable cell traps followed by single-cell spectral analysis.
Correction: Trapping particles using waveguide-coupled gold bowtie plasmonic tweezers
Authors: Lin Pin-Tso , Chu Heng-Yi , Lu Tsan-Wen , Lee Po-Tsung
Published: April 2015

Correction for ‘Trapping particles using waveguide-coupled gold bowtie plasmonic tweezers’ by Pin-Tso Lin et al., Lab Chip, 2014, 14, 4647–4652.
Conformational preferences of β-sheet structures in cyclopropane-containing γ-peptides
Authors: Lee Ji Hyang , Park Hae Sook , Kang Young Kee
Published: April 2015

Oligo-γ-peptides based on 2-(aminomethyl)cyclopropanecarboxylic acid (γAmc3) with a cyclopropane constraint on the Cα–Cβ bond preferentially formed parallel β-sheets rather than antiparallel β-sheets due to the stronger N–H⋯O H-bonds in the parallel conformation.
Glucan particles loaded with a NIRF agent for imaging monocytes/macrophages recruitment in a mouse model of rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Garello Francesca , Arena Francesca , Cutrin Juan Carlos , Esposito Giovanna , D'Angeli Luca , Cesano Federico , Filippi Miriam , Figueiredo Sara , Terreno Enzo
Published: April 2015

We report here thein vivorecruitment of immune cells in inflamed sites on a mouse model of rheumatoid arthritis (CIA) by NIRF imaging of fluorescent glucan microspheres (GPs).
Anchoring of Pd(ii) complex in functionalized MCM-41 as an efficient and recoverable novel nano catalyst in C–C, C–O and C–N coupling reactions using Ph3SnCl
Authors: Ghorbani-Choghamarani Arash , Nikpour Farzad , Ghorbani Farshid , Havasi Forugh
Published: April 2015

Pd(ii) complex on functionalized mesoporous MCM-41 as an efficient and recoverable novel nano catalyst in C–C, C–O and C–N coupling reactions using Ph3SnCl.
Amine-functionalized magnetic nanocomposite particles for efficient immobilization of lipase: effects of functional molecule size on properties of the immobilized lipase
Authors: Esmaeilnejad-Ahranjani Parvaneh , Kazemeini Mohammad , Singh Gurvinder , Arpanaei Ayyoob
Published: April 2015

The size of functional molecules influences the immobilization efficiency and properties of lipase immobilized on amine-functionalized magnetite–silica nanocomposite particles.
Preparation of metallic pivot-based imprinted monoliths with a hydrophilic macromonomer
Authors: Li Xiu-Yuan , Ma Li , Huang Yan-Ping , Liu Zhao-Sheng , Aisa Haji Akber
Published: April 2015

The hydrophilic macromonomer oligo(ethyleneglycol) methyl ether methacrylate (OEG) was introduced into a metal ion-mediated MIP matrix to achieve good selectivity and less hydrophobic character.
Three-way catalytic performance of a Pd/Ce0.67Zr0.33O2–Al2O3 catalyst for automotive emission control: the role of pretreatment gas
Authors: Lin Siyu , Yang Xue , Yang Linyan , Zhou Renxian
Published: April 2015

The nature of the Pd sites in a Pd/Ce0.67Zr0.33O2–Al2O3 catalyst are greatly influenced by the pretreatment gas, resulting in different preferences for HC, CO and NOx conversion.
Development of new ecofriendly detergent/dispersant/antioxidant/antiwear additives from l-histidine for biolubricant applications
Authors: Singh Raj K. , Kukrety Aruna , Thakre Gananath D. , Atray Neeraj , Ray Siddharth S.
Published: April 2015

Novel histidine Schiff base ester molecule containing a detergent like-framework used as multifunctional additive in a polyol base fluid.
Biodegradable polymeric gene delivering nanoscale hybrid micelles enhance the suppression effect of LRIG1 in breast cancer
Authors: Tian Peng , Peng ChaoMing , Zhang Lei
Published: April 2015

Biodegradable polymeric gene delivering nanoscale hybrid micelles enhance the suppression effect of LRIG1 in breast cancer.
3-(1-Phenyl-4-((2-(4-arylthiazol-2-yl)hydrazono)methyl)-1H-pyrazol-3-yl)-2H-chromen-2-ones: one-pot three component condensation, in vitro antimicrobial, antioxidant and molecular docking studies
Authors: Gondru Ramesh , Banothu Janardhan , Thatipamula Ranjith Kumar , Hussain SK Althaf , Bavantula Rajitha
Published: April 2015

A series of novel pyrazolyl coumarin bearing 2,4-disubstituted thiazole derivatives (5a-l) have been synthesized efficientlyviathree-component one-pot manner by Hantzsch condensation.
Chlorosulfonic acid supported diethylamine ionic liquid catalyzed green synthesis of novel 2-mercaptonaphthalen-1-yl)methyl)-3-hydroxy-5,5-dimethylcyclohex-2-enones under neat conditions
Authors: Reddy Mudumala Veeranarayana , Chandra Sekhar Reddy Gangireddy , Naidu Kalla Reddi Mohan , Jeong Yeon Tae
Published: April 2015

An efficient and green procedure for the synthesis of 2-mercaptonaphthalen-1-yl)methyl)-3-hydroxy-5,5-dimethylcyclohex-2-enones catalysed by green ionic liquid (DEACSAIL) under solvent-free conditions has been developed.
A novel pyrazoline-based fluorescent probe for detecting fluoride ion in water and its application on real samples
Authors: Liu Ying , Wang Sheng-Qing , Zhao Bao-Xiang
Published: April 2015

We have designed and synthesized a new fluorescent probe, pyrazoline-based probe 1, to detect fluoride ion with high selectivity and sensitivity in aqueous media.
Edge overgrowth of spiral bimetallic hydroxides ultrathin-nanosheets for water oxidation
Authors: Ni Bing , Wang Xun
Published: April 2015

We have synthesized spiral ultrathin-nanosheets with overgrown edges of NiFe, CoNi and CoFe bimetallic hydroxides which show excellent performance for the OER.
Long-life, high-efficiency lithium/sulfur batteries from sulfurized carbon nanotube cathodes
Authors: Yan Jianhua , Liu Xingbo , Wang Xianfeng , Li Bingyun
Published: April 2015

Sulfurized carbon nanotubes (SCNT) with a high sulfur content (68%) have been produced with a unique method. Li–S cells comprised of the developed SCNT cathodes presented a long cycle life exceeding 1300 cycles and an extremely low capacity decay rate (0.025% per cycle) at 1/3 C rate. Moreover, their Coulombic efficiency was higher than 95.5%.
Themed issue on perovskite solar cells
Authors: Lin Zhiqun , Park Nam-Gyu , Li Gang
Published: April 2015

Guest editors Zhiqun Lin, Nam-Gyu Park and Gang Li introduce this Journal of Materials Chemistry A themed issue on perovskite solar cells.
Monodisperse photoluminescent and highly biocompatible bioactive glass nanoparticles for controlled drug delivery and cell imaging
Authors: Xue Yumeng , Du Yuzhang , Yan Jin , Liu Zhengqing , Ma Peter X. , Chen Xiaofeng , Lei Bo
Published: April 2015

Monodisperse photoluminescent and highly biocompatible bioactive glass nanoparticles were developed for controlled drug delivery and cell imaging applications.
Shock wave acceleration of protons in inhomogeneous plasma interacting with ultrashort intense laser pulses
Authors: Lécz Zs. , Andreev A.
Published: April 2015

The acceleration of protons, triggered by solitary waves in expanded solid targets is investigated using particle-in-cell simulations. The near-critical density plasma is irradiated by ultrashort high power laser pulses, which generate the solitary wave. The transformation of this soliton into a shock wave during propagation in plasma with exponentially decreasing density profile is described analytically, which allows to obtain a scaling law for the proton energy. The high quality proton bunch with small energy spread is produced by reflection from the shock-front. According to the 2D simulations, the mechanism is stable only if the laser pulse duration is shorter than the characteristic development time of the parasitic Weibel instability.
On a zero-gravity limit of the Kerr–Newman spacetimes and their electromagnetic fields
Authors: Tahvildar-Zadeh A. Shadi
Published: April 2015

We discuss the limit of vanishing G (Newton’s constant of universal gravitation) of the maximal analytically extended Kerr–Newman electrovacuum spacetimes represented in Boyer–Lindquist coordinates. We investigate the topologically nontrivial spacetime M0 emerging in this limit and show that it consists of two copies of flat Minkowski spacetime cross-linked at a timelike solid cylinder (spacelike 2-disk × timelike ℝ). As G → 0, the electromagnetic fields of the Kerr–Newman spacetimes converge to nontrivial solutions of Maxwell’s equations on this background spacetime M0. We show how to obtain these fields by solving Maxwell’s equations with singular sources supported only on a circle in a spacelike slice of M0. These sources do not suffer from any of the pathologies that plague the alternate sources found in previous attempts to interpret the Kerr–Newman fields on the topologically simple Minkowski spacetime. We characterize the singular behavior of these sources and prove that the Kerr–Newman electrostatic potential and magnetic scalar potential are the unique solutions of the Maxwell equations among all functions that have the same blow-up behavior at the ring singularity.
Crystal orientation dependence of band matching in all-B2-trilayer current-perpendicular-to-plane giant magnetoresistance pseudo spin-valves using Co2Fe(Ge0.5Ga0.5) Heusler alloy and NiAl spacer
Authors: Chen Jiamin , Furubayashi T. , Takahashi Y. K. , Sasaki T. T. , Hono K.
Published: April 2015

We have experimentally investigated the crystal orientation dependence of band matching in current-perpendicular-to-plane giant magnetoresistance (CPP-GMR) pseudo-spin-valves using Co2Fe(Ge0.5Ga0.5) (CFGG) Heusler alloy ferromagnetic layer and NiAl spacer. The high quality epitaxial CFGG/NiAl/CFGG all-B2-trilayers structure devices were fabricated on both MgO(001) and sapphire (112¯0) single crystal substrates to create (001) and (110) crystal orientations. Same magneto-transport properties were observed from these two differently orientated devices indicating that there is no or little orientation dependence of band matching on MR output. We also found that all-B2-trilayer structure was free of lattice matching influence depending on the crystal orientation, which made it a good candidate for CPP-GMR device.
Efficient calculation of integrals in mixed ramp-Gaussian basis sets
Authors: McKemmish Laura K.
Published: April 2015

Algorithms for the efficient calculation of two-electron integrals in the newly developed mixed ramp-Gaussian basis sets are presented, alongside a Fortran90 implementation of these algorithms, RampItUp. These new basis sets have significant potential to (1) give some speed-up (estimated at up to 20% for large molecules in fully optimised code) to general-purpose Hartree-Fock (HF) and density functional theory quantum chemistry calculations, replacing all-Gaussian basis sets, and (2) give very large speed-ups for calculations of core-dependent properties, such as electron density at the nucleus, NMR parameters, relativistic corrections, and total energies, replacing the current use of Slater basis functions or very large specialised all-Gaussian basis sets for these purposes. This initial implementation already demonstrates roughly 10% speed-ups in HF/R-31G calculations compared to HF/6-31G calculations for large linear molecules, demonstrating the promise of this methodology, particularly for the second application. As well as the reduction in the total primitive number in R-31G compared to 6-31G, this timing advantage can be attributed to the significant reduction in the number of mathematically complex intermediate integrals after modelling each ramp-Gaussian basis-function-pair as a sum of ramps on a single atomic centre.
The experimental setup of the Interaction in Crystals for Emission of RADiation collaboration at Mainzer Mikrotron: Design, commissioning, and tests
Authors: Lietti D. , Backe H. , Bagli E. , Bandiera L. , Berra A. , Carturan S. , De Salvador D. , Germogli G. , Guidi V. , Lauth W. , Mazzolari A. , Prest M. , Vallazza E.
Published: April 2015

Silicon/germanium flat/bent crystals are thin devices able to efficiently deflect charged particle GeV-energy beams up to a few hundreds of μrad; moreover, high intensity photons can be efficiently produced in the so-called Multi-Volume Reflection (MVR) and Multiple Volume Reflections in One Crystal (MVROC) conditions. In the last years, the research interest in this field has moved to the dynamic studies of light negative leptons in the low energy range: the possibility to deflect negative particles and to produce high intensity γ sources via the coherent interactions with crystals in the sub-GeV energy range has been proved by the ICE-RAD (Interaction in Crystals for Emission of RADiation) Collaboration at the MAinzer MIkrotron (MAMI, Germany). This paper describes the setup used by the ICE-RAD experiment for the crystals characterization (both in terms of deflection and radiation emission properties): a high precision goniometer is used to align the crystals with the incoming beam, while a silicon based profilometer and an inorganic scintillator reconstruct, respectively, the particle position and the photon spectra after the samples. The crystals manufacturing process and their characterization, the silicon profilometer commissioning at the CERN PS T9 beamline, and the commissioning of the whole setup installed at MAMI are presented.