bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamical origin of near- and below-threshold harmonic generation of Cs in an intense mid-infrared laser field
Authors: Li Peng-Cheng , Sheu Yae-Lin , Laughlin Cecil , Chu Shih-I
Published: May 2015

Near- and below-threshold harmonic generation provides a potential approach to generate vacuum-ultraviolet frequency comb. However, the dynamical origin of in these lower harmonics is less understood and largely unexplored. Here we perform an ab initio quantum study of the near- and below-threshold harmonic generation of caesium (Cs) atoms in an intense 3,600-nm mid-infrared laser field. Combining with a synchrosqueezing transform of the quantum time-frequency spectrum and an extended semiclassical analysis, the roles of multiphoton and multiple rescattering trajectories on the near- and below-threshold harmonic generation processes are clarified. We find that the multiphoton-dominated trajectories only involve the electrons scattered off the higher part of the combined atom-field potential followed by the absorption of many photons in near- and below-threshold regime. Furthermore, only the near-resonant below-threshold harmonic is exclusive to exhibit phase locked features. Our results shed light on the dynamic origin of the near- and below-threshold harmonic generation.
Recent decrease in typhoon destructive potential and global warming implications
Authors: Lin I-I , Chan Johnny C.L.
Published: May 2015

Typhoons (tropical cyclones) severely impact the half-billion population of the Asian Pacific. Intriguingly, during the recent decade, typhoon destructive potential (Power Dissipation Index, PDI) has decreased considerably (by ∼35%). This decrease, paradoxically, has occurred despite the increase in typhoon intensity and ocean warming. Using the method proposed by Emanuel (in 2007), we show that the stronger negative contributions from typhoon frequency and duration, decrease to cancel the positive contribution from the increasing intensity, controlling the PDI. Examining the typhoons’ environmental conditions, we find that although the ocean condition became more favourable (warming) in the recent decade, the atmospheric condition ‘worsened’ at the same time. The ‘worsened’ atmospheric condition appears to effectively overpower the ‘better’ ocean conditions to suppress PDI. This stronger negative contribution from reduced typhoon frequency over the increased intensity is also present under the global warming scenario, based on analysis of the simulated typhoon data from high-resolution modelling.
Fluorescence lifetime imaging of endogenous biomarker of oxidative stress
Authors: Datta Rupsa , Alfonso-García Alba , Cinco Rachel , Gratton Enrico
Published: May 2015

Presence of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in excess of normal physiological level results in oxidative stress. This can lead to a range of pathological conditions including inflammation, diabetes mellitus, cancer, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative disease. Biomarkers of oxidative stress play an important role in understanding the pathogenesis and treatment of these diseases. A number of fluorescent biomarkers exist. However, a non-invasive and label-free identification technique would be advantageous for in vivo measurements. In this work we establish a spectroscopic method to identify oxidative stress in cells and tissues by fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM). We identified an autofluorescent, endogenous species with a characteristic fluorescent lifetime distribution as a probe for oxidative stress. To corroborate our hypothesis that these species are products of lipid oxidation by ROS, we correlate the spectroscopic signals arising from lipid droplets by combining FLIM with THG and CARS microscopy which are established techniques for selective lipid body imaging. Further, we performed spontaneous Raman spectral analysis at single points of the sample which provided molecular vibration information characteristics of lipid droplets.
Effects and Mechanism of Atmospheric-Pressure Dielectric Barrier Discharge Cold Plasmaon Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) Enzyme
Authors: Zhang Hao , Xu Zimu , Shen Jie , Li Xu , Ding Lili , Ma Jie , Lan Yan , Xia Weidong , Cheng Cheng , Sun Qiang , Zhang Zelong , Chu Paul K.
Published: May 2015

Proteins are carriers of biological functions and the effects of atmospheric-pressurenon-thermal plasmas on proteins are important to applications such as sterilizationand plasma-induced apoptosis of cancer cells. Herein, we report our detailedinvestigation of the effects of helium-oxygen non-thermal dielectric barrierdischarge (DBD) plasmas on the inactivation of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) enzymesolutions. Circular dichroism (CD) and dynamic light scattering (DLS) indicate thatthe loss of activity stems from plasma-induced modification of the secondarymolecular structure as well as polymerization of the peptide chains. Raising thetreatment intensity leads to a reduced alpha-helix content, increase in thepercentage of the beta-sheet regions and random sequence, as well as graduallydecreasing LDH activity. However, the structure of the LDH plasma-treated for 300seconds exhibits a recovery trend after storage for 24 h and itsactivity also increases slightly. By comparing direct and indirect plasmatreatments, plasma-induced LDH inactivation can be attributed to reactive species(RS) in the plasma, especially ones with a long lifetime including hydrogenperoxide, ozone and nitrate ion which play the major role in the alteration of themacromolecular structure and molecular diameter in lieu of heat, UV radiation, andcharged particles.
High Q-factor microring resonator wrapped by the curved waveguide
Authors: Cai Dong-Po , Lu Jyun-Hong , Chen Chii-Chang , Lee Chien-Chieh , Lin Chu-En , Yen Ta-Jen
Published: May 2015

In this work, we study the performances of ring resonators of different type by analyzing the bending loss and the condition of the critical coupling. We propose that the bending loss of microring can be reduced by wrapping a concentrically curved waveguide. The difference of propagation constant between two concentrically curved waveguides can be tuned by adjusting the bus waveguide width to optimize the critical coupling. Furthermore, we propose to enlarge the difference of the propagation constant between two concentrically curved waveguides to maintain the circulating light in the ring to obtain higher quality factor. In this study, the highest quality factor that we measured is 7 × 105.
Magnetic resonance enterographic predictors of one-year outcome in ileal and ileocolonic Crohn’s disease treated with anti-tumor necrosis factor antibodies
Authors: Eder Piotr , Michalak Michal , Katulska Katarzyna , Lykowska-Szuber Liliana , Krela-Kazmierczak Iwona , Stawczyk-Eder Kamila , Klimczak Katarzyna , Szymczak Aleksandra , Linke Krzysztof
Published: May 2015

The aim of the study was to assess the role of magnetic resonance enterography (MRE) in predicting one-year efficacy of anti-tumor necrosis factor antibodies - infliximab (IFX), adalimumab (ADA) in Crohn’s disease (CD) patients primarily responding to therapy. We performed retrospective analysis among 61 CD patients who had undergone a successful IFX/ADA induction therapy and were treated with maintenance doses. All patients underwent MRE at week 0. We assessed which MRE features were predictive for steroid-free remission at week 52 and which were associated with a secondary loss of response. 44 patients were in steroid-free remission at week 52, 17 - were secondary non-responders. The ROC curve showed that bowel thickening with contrast enhancement analyzed together at week 0 were associated with steroid-free remission at week 52 (p = 0.01; AUC 0.67). Bowel stenosis with or without prestenotic dilatation [OR 5.8 (95% CI 1.4 – 25) and 2.4 (95% CI 1.2 – 5) respectively; p = 0.01] and the presence of intra-abdominal fistulas [OR 1.4 (95% CI 1.1 – 2); p = 0.004] were related to secondary non-response. A high baseline inflammatory activity detected by MRE predicts one-year response in CD after IFX/ADA. In case of bowel stenosis, intra-abdominal fistulas, other therapeutic options should be considered.
The neural dynamic mechanisms of asymmetric switch costs in a combined Stroop-task-switching paradigm
Authors: Wu Shanshan , Hitchman Glenn , Tan Jinfeng , Zhao Yuanfang , Tang Dandan , Wang Lijun , Chen Antao
Published: May 2015

Switch costs have been constantly found asymmetrical when switching between two tasks of unequal dominance. We used a combined Stroop-task-switching paradigm and recorded electroencephalographic (EEG) signals to explore the neural mechanism underlying the phenomenon of asymmetrical switch costs. The results revealed that a fronto-central N2 component demonstrated greater negativity in word switch (cW) trials relative to word repeat (wW) trials and both First P3 and P3b components over the parieto-central region exhibited greater positivity in color switch (wC) trials relative to color repeat (cC) trials, whereas a contrasting switch-related fronto-central SP effect was found to have an opposite pattern for each task. Moreover, the time-frequency analysis showed a right-frontal lower alpha band (9-11 Hz) modulation in the word task, whereas a fronto-central upper alpha band (11-13 Hz) modulation was exclusively found in the color task. These results provide evidence for dissociable neural processes, which are related to inhibitory control and endogenous control, contributing to the generation of asymmetrical switch costs.
Novel rare-earth-free yellow Ca5Zn3.92In0.08(V0.99Ta0.01O4)6 phosphors for dazzling white light-emitting diodes
Authors: Pavitra E. , Raju G. Seeta Rama , Park Jin Young , Wang Lili , Moon Byung Kee , Yu Jae Su
Published: May 2015

White light-emitting diode (WLED) products currently available on the market are based on the blue LED combined with yellow phosphor approach. However, these WLEDs are still insufficient for general illumination and flat panel display (FPD) applications because of their low color-rendering index (CRI < 75) and high correlated color temperature (CCT = 6000 K). Although near-ultraviolet (UV) LED chips provide more efficient excitation than blue chips, YAG:Ce3+ phosphors have very weak excitation in the near-UV spectral region. Hence, there is an increasing demand for novel yellow phosphor materials with excitation in the near-UV region. In this work, we report novel self-activated yellow Ca5Zn3.92In0.08(V0.99Ta0.01O4)6 (CZIVT) phosphors that efficiently convert near-UV excitation light into yellow luminescence. The crystal structure and lattice parameters of these CZIVT phosphors are elucidated through Rietveld refinement. Through doping with In3+ and Ta5+ ions, the emission intensity is enhanced in the red region and the Stokes shift is controlled to obtain good color rendition. When a near-UV LED chip is coated with a combination of CZIVT and commercial blue Ba0.9Eu0.1MgAl10O17 phosphors, a pleasant WLED with a high CRI of 82.51 and a low CCT of 5231 K, which are essential for indoor illumination and FPDs, is achieved.
Interactions between tick and transmitted pathogens evolved to minimise competition through nested and coherent networks
Authors: Estrada-Peña Agustín , de la Fuente José , Ostfeld Richard S. , Cabezas-Cruz Alejandro
Published: May 2015

Natural foci of ticks, pathogens and vertebrate reservoirs display complex relationships that are key to the circulation of pathogens and infection dynamics through the landscape. However, knowledge of the interaction networks involved in transmission of tick-borne pathogens are limited because empirical studies are commonly incomplete or performed at small spatial scales. Here, we applied the methodology of ecological networks to quantify >14,000 interactions among ticks, vertebrates and pathogens in the western Palearctic. These natural networks are highly structured, modular, coherent and nested to some degree. We found that the large number of vertebrates in the network contributes to its robustness and persistence. Its structure reduces interspecific competition and allows ample but modular circulation of transmitted pathogens among vertebrates. Accounting for domesticated hosts collapses the network’s modular structure, linking groups of hosts that were previously unconnected and increasing the circulation of pathogens. This framework indicates that ticks and vertebrates interact along the shared environmental gradient, while pathogens are linked to groups of phylogenetically close reservoirs.
Sleep-independent offline consolidation of response inhibition during the daytime post-training period
Authors: Honma Motoyasu , Yoshiike Takuya , Ikeda Hiroki , Kuriyama Kenichi
Published: May 2015

Appropriate inhibitory response control is associated with goal-directed behavior. Sleep accelerates the offline consolidation of acquired motor skills that are explicitly predictable; however, the effect of sleep on implicit (unpredictable) motor skills remains controversial. We speculated that a key component of response inhibition skill differentiates between these skill consolidation properties because explicit prediction can minimize the inhibitory efforts in a motor skill. We explored the offline skill learning properties of response inhibition during sleep and wakefulness using auditory Go and Go/Nogo tasks. We attempted to discriminate the possible effects of time elapsed after training (12 or 24 h), post-training sleep/wake state (sleep or wakefulness) and time of day (nighttime or daytime) in 79 healthy human subjects divided into 6 groups that underwent various sleep regimens prior to training and retesting. We found that delayed response inhibition skill improvement was achieved via a simple passage of daytime, regardless of the participants’ alertness level. Our results suggest that sleep-independent neuroplasticity occurs during the daytime and facilitates a delayed learning of response inhibition skill.
High accuracy thermal conductivity measurement of aqueous cryoprotective agents and semi-rigid biological tissues using a microfabricated thermal sensor
Authors: Liang Xin M. , Sekar Praveen K. , Zhao Gang , Zhou Xiaoming , Shu Zhiquan , Huang Zhongping , Ding Weiping , Zhang Qingchuan , Gao Dayong
Published: May 2015

An improved thermal-needle approach for accurate and fast measurement of thermal conductivity of aqueous and soft biomaterials was developed using microfabricated thermal conductivity sensors. This microscopic measuring device was comprehensively characterized at temperatures from 0 °C to 40 °C. Despite the previous belief, system calibration constant was observed to be highly temperature-dependent. Dynamic thermal conductivity response during cooling (40 °C to –40 °C) was observed using the miniaturized single tip sensor for various concentrations of CPAs, i.e., glycerol, ethylene glycol and dimethyl sulfoxide. Chicken breast, chicken skin, porcine limb and bovine liver were assayed to investigate the effect of anatomical heterogeneity on thermal conductivity using the arrayed multi-tip sensor at 20 °C. Experimental results revealed distinctive differences in localized thermal conductivity, which suggests the use of approximated or constant property values is expected to bring about results with largely inflated uncertainties when investigating bio-heat transfer mechanisms and/or performing sophisticated thermal modeling with complex biological tissues. Overall, the presented micro thermal sensor with automated data analysis algorithm is a promising approach for direct thermal conductivity measurement of aqueous solutions and soft biomaterials and is of great value to cryopreservation of tissues, hyperthermia or cryogenic and other thermal-based clinical diagnostics and treatments.
Phosphorylation of Nonmuscle myosin II-A regulatory light chain resists Sendai virus fusion with host cells
Authors: Das Provas , Saha Shekhar , Chandra Sunandini , Das Alakesh , Dey Sumit K. , Das Mahua R. , Sen Shamik , Sarkar Debi P. , Jana Siddhartha S.
Published: May 2015

Enveloped viruses enter host cells through membrane fusion and the cells in turn alter their shape to accommodate components of the virus. However, the role of nonmuscle myosin II of the actomyosin complex of host cells in membrane fusion is yet to be understood. Herein, we show that both (−) blebbistatin, a specific inhibitor of nonmuscle myosin II (NMII) and small interfering RNA markedly augment fusion of Sendai virus (SeV), with chinese hamster ovary cells and human hepatocarcinoma cells. Inhibition of RLC phosphorylation using inhibitors against ROCK, but not PKC and MRCK, or overexpression of phospho-dead mutant of RLC enhances membrane fusion. SeV infection increases cellular stiffness and myosin light chain phosphorylation at two hour post infection. Taken together, the present investigation strongly indicates that Rho-ROCK-NMII contractility signaling pathway may provide a physical barrier to host cells against viral fusion.
Quantitative High-Throughput Identification of Drugs as Modulators of Human Constitutive Androstane Receptor
Authors: Lynch Caitlin , Zhao Jinghua , Huang Ruili , Xiao Jingwei , Li Linhao , Heyward Scott , Xia Menghang , Wang Hongbing
Published: May 2015

The constitutive androstane receptor (CAR, NR1I3) plays a key role in governing the transcription of numerous hepatic genes that involve xenobiotic metabolism/clearance, energy homeostasis and cell proliferation. Thus, identification of novel human CAR (hCAR) modulators may not only enhance early prediction of drug-drug interactions but also offer potentially novel therapeutics for diseases such as metabolic disorders and cancer. In this study, we have generated a double stable cell line expressing both hCAR and a CYP2B6-driven luciferase reporter for quantitative high-throughput screening (qHTS) of hCAR modulators. Approximately 2800 compounds from the NIH Chemical Genomics Center Pharmaceutical Collection were screened employing both the activation and deactivation modes of the qHTS. Activators (115) and deactivators (152) of hCAR were identified from the primary qHTS, among which 10 agonists and 10 antagonists were further validated in the physiologically relevant human primary hepatocytes for compound-mediated hCAR nuclear translocation and target gene expression. Collectively, our results reveal that hCAR modulators can be efficiently identified through this newly established qHTS assay. Profiling drug collections for hCAR activity would facilitate the prediction of metabolism-based drug-drug interactions and may lead to the identification of potential novel therapeutics.
Layer dependence and gas molecule absorption property in MoS2 Schottky diode with asymmetric metal contacts
Authors: Yoon Hyong Seo , Joe Hang-Eun , Jun Kim Sun , Lee Hee Sung , Im Seongil , Min Byung-Kwon , Jun Seong Chan
Published: May 2015

Surface potential measurement on atomically thin MoS2 flakes revealed the thickness dependence in Schottky barriers formed between high work function metal electrodes and MoS2 thin flakes. Schottky diode devices using mono- and multi- layer MoS2 channels were demonstrated by employing Ti and Pt contacts to form ohmic and Schottky junctions respectively. Characterization results indicated n-type behavior of the MoS2 thin flakes and the devices showed clear rectifying performance. We also observed the layer dependence in device characteristics and asymmetrically enhanced responses to NH3 and NO2 gases based on the metal work function and the Schottky barrier height change.
A new GWAS and meta-analysis with 1000Genomes imputation identifies novel risk variants for colorectal cancer
Authors: Al-Tassan Nada A. , Whiffin Nicola , Hosking Fay J. , Palles Claire , Farrington Susan M. , Dobbins Sara E. , Harris Rebecca , Gorman Maggie , Tenesa Albert , Meyer Brian F. , Wakil Salma M. , Kinnersley Ben , Campbell Harry , Martin Lynn , Smith Christopher G. , Idziaszczyk Shelley , Barclay Ella , Maughan Timothy S. , Kaplan Richard , Kerr Rachel , Kerr David , Buchanan Daniel D. , Win Aung Ko , Hopper John , Jenkins Mark , Lindor Noralane M. , Newcomb Polly A. , Gallinger Steve , Conti David , Schumacher Fred , Casey Graham , Dunlop Malcolm G. , Tomlinson Ian P. , Cheadle Jeremy P. , Houlston Richard S.
Published: May 2015

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of colorectal cancer (CRC) have identified 23 susceptibility loci thus far. Analyses of previously conducted GWAS indicate additional risk loci are yet to be discovered. To identify novel CRC susceptibility loci, we conducted a new GWAS and performed a meta-analysis with five published GWAS (totalling 7,577 cases and 9,979 controls of European ancestry), imputing genotypes utilising the 1000 Genomes Project. The combined analysis identified new, significant associations with CRC at 1p36.2 marked by rs72647484 (minor allele frequency [MAF] = 0.09) near CDC42 and WNT4 (P = 1.21 × 10−8, odds ratio [OR] = 1.21 ) and at 16q24.1 marked by rs16941835 (MAF = 0.21, P = 5.06 × 10−8; OR = 1.15) within the long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) RP11-58A18.1 and ~500 kb from the nearest coding gene FOXL1. Additionally we identified a promising association at 10p13 with rs10904849 intronic to CUBN (MAF = 0.32, P = 7.01 × 10-8; OR = 1.14). These findings provide further insights into the genetic and biological basis of inherited genetic susceptibility to CRC. Additionally, our analysis further demonstrates that imputation can be used to exploit GWAS data to identify novel disease-causing variants.
Continuous de novo biosynthesis of haem and its rapid turnover to bilirubin are necessary for cytoprotection against cell damage
Authors: Takeda Taka-aki , Mu Anfeng , Tai Tran Tien , Kitajima Sakihito , Taketani Shigeru
Published: May 2015

It is well known that haem serves as the prosthetic group of various haemoproteins that function in oxygen transport, respiratory chain and drug metabolism. However, much less is known about the functions of the catabolites of haem in mammalian cells. Haem is enzymatically degraded to iron, carbon monoxide (CO) and biliverdin, which is then converted to bilirubin. Owing to difficulties in measuring bilirubin, however, the generation and transport of this end product remain unclear despite its clinical importance. Here, we used UnaG, the recently identified bilirubin-binding fluorescent protein, to analyse bilirubin production in a variety of human cell lines. We detected a significant amount of bilirubin with many non-blood cell types, which was sensitive to inhibitors of haem metabolism. These results suggest that there is a basal level of haem synthesis and its conversion into bilirubin. Remarkably, substantial changes were observed in the bilirubin generation when cells were exposed to stress insults. Since the stress-induced cell damage was exacerbated by the pharmacological blockade of haem metabolism but was ameliorated by the addition of biliverdin and bilirubin, it is likely that the de novo synthesis of haem and subsequent conversion to bilirubin play indispensable cytoprotective roles against cell damage.
Optical pumping and readout of bismuth hyperfine states in silicon for atomic clock applications
Authors: Saeedi K. , Szech M. , Dluhy P. , Salvail J.Z. , Morse K.J. , Riemann H. , Abrosimov N.V. , Nötzel N. , Litvinenko K.L. , Murdin B.N. , Thewalt M.L.W.
Published: May 2015

The push for a semiconductor-based quantum information technology has renewed interest in the spin states and optical transitions of shallow donors in silicon, including the donor bound exciton transitions in the near-infrared and the Rydberg, or hydrogenic, transitions in the mid-infrared. The deepest group V donor in silicon, bismuth, has a large zero-field ground state hyperfine splitting, comparable to that of rubidium, upon which the now-ubiquitous rubidium atomic clock time standard is based. Here we show that the ground state hyperfine populations of bismuth can be read out using the mid-infrared Rydberg transitions, analogous to the optical readout of the rubidium ground state populations upon which rubidium clock technology is based. We further use these transitions to demonstrate strong population pumping by resonant excitation of the bound exciton transitions, suggesting several possible approaches to a solid-state atomic clock using bismuth in silicon, or eventually in enriched 28Si.
Method of preparing an equimolar DNA mixture for one-step DNA assembly of over 50 fragments
Authors: Tsuge Kenji , Sato Yukari , Kobayashi Yuka , Gondo Maiko , Hasebe Masako , Togashi Takashi , Tomita Masaru , Itaya Mitsuhiro
Published: May 2015

In the era of synthetic biology, techniques for rapidly constructing a designer long DNA from short DNA fragments are desired. To realize this, we attempted to establish a method for one-step DNA assembly of unprecedentedly large numbers of fragments. The basic technology is the Ordered Gene Assembly in Bacillus subtilis (OGAB) method, which uses the plasmid transformation system of B. subtilis. Since this method doesn’t require circular ligation products but needs tandem repeat ligation products, the degree of deviation in the molar concentration of the material DNAs is the only determinant that affects the efficiency of DNA assembly. The strict standardization of the size of plasmids that clone the DNA block and the measurement of the block in the state of intact plasmid improve the reliability of this step, with the coefficient of variation of the molar concentrations becoming 7%. By coupling this method with the OGAB method, one-step assembly of more than 50 DNA fragments becomes feasible.
Laser Shock Peening on Zr-based Bulk Metallic Glass and Its Effect on Plasticity: Experiment and Modeling
Authors: Cao Yunfeng , Xie Xie , Antonaglia James , Winiarski Bartlomiej , Wang Gongyao , Shin Yung C. , Withers Philip J. , Dahmen Karin A. , Liaw Peter K.
Published: May 2015

The Zr-based bulk metallic glasses (BMGs) are a new family of attractive materials with good glass-forming ability and excellent mechanical properties, such as high strength and good wear resistance, which make them candidates for structural and biomedical materials. Although the mechanical behavior of BMGs has been widely investigated, their deformation mechanisms are still poorly understood. In particular, their poor ductility significantly impedes their industrial application. In the present work, we show that the ductility of Zr-based BMGs with nearly zero plasticity is improved by a laser shock peening technique. Moreover, we map the distribution of laser-induced residual stresses via the micro-slot cutting method and then predict them using a three-dimensional finite-element method coupled with a confined plasma model. Reasonable agreement is achieved between the experimental and modeling results. The analyses of serrated flows reveal plentiful and useful information of the underlying deformation process. Our work provides an easy and effective way to extend the ductility of intrinsically-brittle BMGs, opening up wider applications of these materials.
Composite SERS-based satellites navigated by optical tweezers for single cell analysis
Authors: Stetciura Inna Y. , Yashchenok Alexey , Masic Admir , Lyubin Evgeny V. , Inozemtseva Olga A. , Drozdova Maria G. , Markvichova Elena A. , Khlebtsov Boris N. , Fedyanin Andrey A. , Sukhorukov Gleb B. , Gorin Dmitry A. , Volodkin Dmitry
Published: May 2015

Optically movable SERS micro-satellites are effective intracellular probes.
A “turn-on” silver nanocluster based fluorescent sensor for folate receptor detection and cancer cell imaging under visual analysis
Authors: Jiang Hong , Xu Gang , Sun Yimin , Zheng Weiwei , Zhu Xiangxiang , Wang Baojuan , Zhang Xiaojun , Wang Guangfeng
Published: May 2015

A novel terminal protection based label-free and “turn-on” fluorescent sensor for detection of folate receptors (FRs) and HeLa cells is developed by fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) between single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and silver nanoclusters (AgNCs).
Highly-efficient cocatalyst-free H2-evolution over silica-supported CdS nanoparticle photocatalysts under visible light
Authors: Yu Guiyang , Geng Longlong , Wu Shujie , Yan Wenfu , Liu Gang
Published: May 2015

A silica-supported CdS nanoparticle photocatalyst exhibits excellent visible-light driven H2evolution activity without the use of a cocatalyst. The apparent quantum yield can reach 42% under 420 nm light illumination.
A porphyrin photosensitized metal–organic framework for cancer cell apoptosis and caspase responsive theranostics
Authors: Zhang Lei , Lei Jianping , Ma Fengjiao , Ling Pinghua , Liu Jintong , Ju Huangxian
Published: May 2015

A photosensitized and caspase-responsive nanoprobe was designed with metal–organic frameworks for cancer therapy andin situtherapeutic monitoring.
C–H functionalization of cyclic amines: redox-annulations with α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds
Authors: Kang YoungKu , Richers Matthew T. , Sawicki Conrad H. , Seidel Daniel
Published: May 2015

Pyrrolidine and related amines undergo carboxylic acid promoted redox-annulations with α,β-unsaturated ketonesviathe intermediacy of conjugated azomethine ylides.
A novel strategy for reversible hydrogen storage in Ca(BH4)2
Authors: Yan Yigang , Remhof Arndt , Rentsch Daniel , Züttel Andreas , Giri Santanab , Jena Puru
Published: May 2015

The reversible hydrogen storage in Ca(BH4)2at moderate conditions involves CaB2H6as a crucial reaction intermediate.
Bifunctional ligands in combination with phosphines and Lewis acidic phospheniums for the carbonylative Sonogashira reaction
Authors: Tan Chen , Wang Peng , Liu Huan , Zhao Xiao-Li , Lu Yong , Liu Ye
Published: May 2015

Bifunctional ligands (L1–L4) in combination with Lewis acidic phosphenium(v) and phosphine have been developed for the carbonylative Sonogashira reaction.
Efficient chemoenzymatic synthesis of novel galacto-N-biose derivatives and their sialylated forms
Authors: Li Lei , Liu Yonghui , Li Tiehai , Wang Wenjun , Yu Zaikuan , Ma Cheng , Qu Jingyao , Zhao Wei , Chen Xi , Wang Peng G.
Published: May 2015

Novel galacto-N-biose derivatives and their sialylated form were efficiently synthesizedviaone-pot two-enzyme systems starting with monosaccharides.
Free electrons and ionic liquids: study of excited states by means of electron-energy loss spectroscopy and the density functional theory multireference configuration interaction method
Authors: Regeta Khrystyna , Bannwarth Christoph , Grimme Stefan , Allan Michael
Published: May 2015

Collisions of slow electrons with ionic liquids and DFT/MRCI calculations reveal triplet states and interesting physics at low energies.
The correlations among bond ionicity, lattice energy and microwave dielectric properties of (Nd1−xLax)NbO4ceramics
Authors: Zhang Ping , Zhao Yonggui , Li Lingxia
Published: May 2015

For the first time, an empirical method based on P–V–L theory for investigating microwave dielectric properties has been proposed.
A mild route to solid-supported rhodium nanoparticle catalysts and their application to the selective hydrogenation reaction of substituted arenes
Authors: Moreno-Marrodan Carmen , Liguori Francesca , Mercadé Elisabet , Godard Cyril , Claver Carmen , Barbaro Pierluigi
Published: May 2015

A clean route is described for the preparation of 1.3% (w/w) supported rhodium nanoparticle (3.0 ± 0.7 nm) catalysts onto commercial ion-exchange resins.
High-throughput, motility-based sorter for microswimmers such as C. elegans
Authors: Yuan Jinzhou , Zhou Jessie , Raizen David M. , Bau Haim H.
Published: May 2015

This paper describes the design, fabrication, characterization, and applications of a high-throughput motility-based sorter for microswimmers such asC. elegans.
Flow field induced particle accumulation inside droplets in rectangular channels
Authors: Hein Michael , Moskopp Michael , Seemann Ralf
Published: May 2015

We present accumulation of sedimenting particles/cells within elongated droplets. Particle patterns evolve with droplet velocity, as explained by a topological change of the internal flow and the droplet's outer shape.
Tuning the size and morphology of zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 in a membrane dispersion reactor
Authors: Dong Liangliang , Zhang Chunfang , Gu Jin , Sun Yuping , Bai Yunxiang , Chen Mingqing , Xu Youyi
Published: May 2015

The MDR can successfully control the size and morphology of ZIF-8, which is an efficient and economical way for preparation of ZIFs.
Stereoselective Pd-catalyzed etherification and asymmetric synthesis of furanomycin and its analogues from a chiral aziridine
Authors: Jung Jae-Hoon , Yoon Doo-Ha , Lee Kyuwoong , Shin Hyeonah , Lee Won Koo , Yook Cheol-Min , Ha Hyun-Joon
Published: May 2015

A chiral aziridine was utilized for the synthesis of the anti-bacterial natural amino acidl-(+)-furanomycin, and its analogues including 5′-epi-furanomycin and norfuranomycin.
Tanzawaic acids isolated from a marine-derived fungus of the genus Penicillium with cytotoxic activities
Authors: Cardoso-Martínez Faviola , de la Rosa José M. , Díaz-Marrero Ana R. , Darias José , Cerella Claudia , Diederich Marc , Cueto Mercedes
Published: May 2015

Tanzawaic acids M (1), N (2), O (3) and P (4) were isolated from an extract of a cultured marine-derived fungus (strain CF07370) identified as a member of the genus Penicillium.
Isoxazolidine-fused meso-tetraarylchlorins as key tools for the synthesis of mono- and bis-annulated chlorins
Authors: Aguiar António , Leite Andreia , Silva André M. N. , Tomé Augusto C. , Cunha-Silva Luís , de Castro Baltazar , Rangel Maria , Silva Ana M. G.
Published: May 2015

An efficient synthetic approach to prepare novel annulated chlorin derivatives, a meso-tetraarylchlorin bearing an azepine ring and another bearing simultaneously an azepine and a 2H-pyran ring, is described.
A pH-responsive drug delivery system with an aggregation-induced emission feature for cell imaging and intracellular drug delivery
Authors: Wang Haibo , Liu Gongyan , Gao Haiqi , Wang Yunbing
Published: May 2015

A pH-sensitive fluorescent vehicle based on aggregation-induced emission (AIE) has been developed as a drug delivery system for simultaneous cell imaging and therapeutic treatment.
Chitosan modification of magnetic biochar produced from Eichhornia crassipes for enhanced sorption of Cr(vi) from aqueous solution
Authors: Zhang Ming-ming , Liu Yun-guo , Li Ting-ting , Xu Wei-hua , Zheng Bo-hong , Tan Xiao-fei , Wang Hui , Guo Yi-ming , Guo Fang-ying , Wang Shu-fan
Published: May 2015

In this research, chitosan modification of magnetic biochar (CMB) was successfully prepared for effective removal of Cr(vi).
Morphology and properties of silica-based coatings with different functionalities for Fe3O4, ZnO and Al2O3 nanoparticles
Authors: Liu D. , Pourrahimi A. M. , Pallon L. K. H. , Andersson R. L. , Hedenqvist M. S. , Gedde U. W. , Olsson R. T.
Published: May 2015

A facile single-step method for obtaining 2–3 nm thick silsesquioxane coatings on metal oxide nanoparticles using different carbon-functional silane precursors is presented.
Cyclosporine A loaded self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS): implication of a functional excipient based co-encapsulation strategy on oral bioavailability and nephrotoxicity
Authors: Jain Sanyog , Kambam Sindhu , Thanki Kaushik , Jain Amit K.
Published: May 2015

The present work focusses on the formulation development and evaluation of a functional excipient, a vitamin E TPGS loaded self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system, for improving the deliverability and safety profile of cyclosporine A.
Organogel formation via supramolecular assembly of oleic acid and sodium oleate
Authors: Nikiforidis Constantinos V. , Gilbert Elliot Paul , Scholten Elke
Published: May 2015

To create materials with novel functionalities, the formation of gels within hydrophobic media has become popular.
Phenomenological modeling and analysis of gas transport in polyimide membranes for propylene/propane separation
Authors: Najari Sara , Hosseini Seyed Saeid , Omidkhah Mohammadreza , Tan Nicolas R.
Published: May 2015

Accounting for coupling of fluxes via thermodynamic coupling effects, leads to better predictions of the transport properties.
Highly efficient sulfur dioxide capture by glyme–lithium salt ionic liquids
Authors: Sun Shaoyang , Niu Yanxia , Xu Qiang , Sun Zuchen , Wei Xionghui
Published: May 2015

A series of ionic liquids can be simply prepared by mixing glymes and Li salts. The formed quasi-aza-crown cations of glymes and Li ion exhibit an efficient and excellent reversible absorption of sulfur dioxide.
In situ synthesis of permselective zeolitic imidazolate framework-8/graphene oxide composites: rotating disk electrode and Langmuir adsorption isotherm
Authors: Luanwuthi Santamon , Krittayavathananon Atiweena , Srimuk Pattarachai , Sawangphruk Montree
Published: May 2015

Permselective zeolitic imidazolate framework-8/graphene oxide composites.
Template size matched film thickness for effectively in situ surface imprinting: a model study of glycoprotein imprints
Authors: Wu Gang , Li Jinyang , Qu Xue , Zhang Yuxin , Hong Hua , Liu Changsheng
Published: May 2015

For achieving a high imprinting efficiency, the film thickness should be compatible with the geometric size of fixed templates.
Hollow and sulfonated microporous organic polymers: versatile platforms for non-covalent fixation of molecular photocatalysts
Authors: Park Nojin , Kang Daye , Ahn Min Cheol , Kang Sungah , Lee Sang Moon , Ahn Tae Kyu , Jaung Jae Yun , Shin Hee-Won , Son Seung Uk
Published: May 2015

Sulfonated hollow microporous organic polymers showed excellent heterogenization ability towards various cationic photocatalysts through ionic interaction.
Fabrication of uniform porous CNTs/activated carbon composite spheres by oil-drop method in stratified oils and their adsorption of VB12
Authors: Guo Bingzhi , Gong Qianming , Wang Junjie , Huang Yilun , Zhuang Daming , Liang Ji
Published: May 2015

Uniform porous CNTs/activated carbon composite spheres were prepared by oil-drop method followed by gradual suspension curing in stratified oils.
Efficient assembly of mono- and bis(1,2,4-oxadiazol-3-yl)furoxan scaffolds via tandem reactions of furoxanylamidoximes
Authors: Fershtat Leonid L. , Ananyev Ivan V. , Makhova Nina N.
Published: May 2015

Tandem protocols for the synthesis of new types of hybrid molecules – (1,2,4-oxadiazol-3-yl)furoxans based on the furoxanylamidoximes heterocyclization have been developed.
Optimization of ultrasonic frequency for the improvement of extraction yields of bufadienolides from the Chinese medicine ChanSu by using a novel ultrasonic system
Authors: Liao Jian-Qing , Zheng Nan , Xiao Shun-Gen
Published: May 2015

Optimization of ultrasonic frequency for the improvement of extraction yields of bufadienolides was evaluated successfully using an online extraction system.
One-step and template-free preparation of hierarchical porous carbons with high capacitive performance
Authors: Zhou Jin , Zhang Zhongshen , Li Zhaohui , Zhu Tingting , Zhuo Shuping
Published: May 2015

A template-free and one-step method is developed to prepare hierarchical porous carbon materials, that is direct carbonization of phenolic resin carboxylic salt xerogels.
Atomistic simulation of the growth of defect-free carbon nanotubes
Authors: Xu Ziwei , Yan Tianying , Ding Feng
Published: May 2015

The atomistic simulation of defect-free SWCNT growth is realized for the first time after 12 years of continuous effort.
Homeotropic nano-particle assembly on degenerate planar nematic interfaces: films and droplets
Authors: Londoño-Hurtado Alejandro , Armas-Pérez Julio C. , Hernández-Ortiz Juan P. , de Pablo Juan J.
Published: May 2015

A continuum theory is used to study the effects of homeotropic nano-particles on degenerate planar liquid crystal interfaces.
Optimizing the thermoelectric performance of low-temperature SnSe compounds by electronic structure design
Authors: Hong A. J. , Li L. , Zhu H. X. , Yan Z. B. , Liu J.-M. , Ren Z. F.
Published: May 2015

Figure-of-merit factor ZT depending on hope-carrier density for single and polycrystal SnSe compounds at T = 675 K.
Rational design and fabrication of graphene/carbon nanotubes hybrid sponge for high-performance capacitive deionization
Authors: Xu Xingtao , Liu Yong , Lu Ting , Sun Zhuo , Chua Daniel H. C. , Pan Likun
Published: May 2015

A graphene/carbon nanotubes sponge was fabricated by a freeze-drying and annealing method for capacitive deionization with an ultrahigh electrosorption capacity.
Synthesis of ultralong MnO/C coaxial nanowires as freestanding anodes for high-performance lithium ion batteries
Authors: Wang Jian-Gan , Zhang Cunbao , Jin Dandan , Xie Keyu , Wei Bingqing
Published: May 2015

Ultralong MnO/C nanowire membranes have been fabricated using a facile approach and applied as freestanding anodes for lithium-ion batteries.
DOX-encapsulated intelligent PAA-g-PEG/PEG–Fa polymeric micelles for intensifying antitumor therapeutic effect via active-targeted tumor accumulation
Authors: Sun Yong , Wang Yaning , Cui Yani , Zou Wen , Tan Yanfei , Liang Jie , Fan Yujiang , Zhang Xingdong
Published: May 2015

Reduction-breakable active targeting polymeric micelles as drug delivery systems could improve delivery efficiency by tumor-specific recognition.
Copper(i)-iodide based coordination polymers: bifunctional properties related to thermochromism and PMMA-doped polymer film materials
Authors: Song Yang , Fan Ruiqing , Wang Ping , Wang Xinming , Gao Song , Du Xi , Yang Yulin , Luan Tianzhu
Published: May 2015

Preparation, characterization, crystal structure and luminescence properties of Cu(i)-iodide coordination polymers: thermochromism and PMMA-doped hybrid materials.
Giant volume magnetostriction in the Y2Fe17 single crystal at room temperature
Authors: Nikitin S. A. , Pankratov N. Yu. , Smarzhevskaya A. I. , Politova G. A. , Pastushenkov Yu. G. , Skokov K. P. , del Moral A.
Published: May 2015

An investigation of the Y2Fe17 compound belonging to the class of intermetallic alloys of rare-earth and 3d-transition metals is presented. The magnetization, magnetostriction, and thermal expansion of the Y2Fe17 single crystal were studied. The forced magnetostriction and magnetostriction constants were investigated in the temperature range of the magnetic ordering close to the room temperature. The giant field induced volume magnetostriction was discovered in the room temperature region in the magnetic field up to 1.2 T. The contributions of both anisotropic single-ion and isotropic pair exchange interactions to the volume magnetostriction and magnetostriction constants were determined. The experimental results were interpreted within the framework of the Standard Theory of Magnetostriction and the Landau thermodynamic theory. It was found out that the giant values of the volume magnetostriction were caused by the strong dependence of the 3d-electron Coulomb charge repulsion on the deformations and width of the 3d-electron energy band.
Inhibitory and excitatory pulse coupling of two frequency-different chemical oscillators with time delay
Authors: Proskurkin Ivan S. , Lavrova Anastasia I. , Vanag Vladimir K.
Published: May 2015

Dynamical regimes of two pulse coupled non-identical Belousov-Zhabotinsky oscillators have been studied experimentally as well as theoretically with the aid of ordinary differential equations and phase response curves both for pure inhibitory and pure excitatory coupling. Time delay τ between a spike in one oscillator and perturbing pulse in the other oscillator plays a significant role for the phase relations of synchronous regimes of the 1:1 and 1:2 resonances. Birhythmicity between anti-phase and in-phase oscillations for inhibitory pulse coupling as well as between 1:2 and 1:1 resonances for excitatory pulse coupling have also been found. Depending on the ratio of native periods of oscillations T2/T1, coupling strength, and time delay τ, such resonances as 1:1 (with different phase locking), 2:3, 1:2, 2:5, 1:3, 1:4, as well as complex oscillations and oscillatory death are observed.
pH-oscillations in the bromate–sulfite reaction in semibatch and in gel-fed batch reactors
Authors: Poros Eszter , Kurin-Csörgei Krisztina , Szalai István , Rábai Gyula , Orbán Miklós
Published: May 2015

The simplest bromate oxidation based pH-oscillator, the two component BrO3−–SO32– flow system was transformed to operate under semibatch and closed arrangements. The experimental preconditions of the pH-oscillations in semibatch configuration were predicted by model calculations. Using this information as guideline large amplitude (ΔpH∼3), long lasting (11–24 h) pH-oscillations accompanied with only a 20% increase of the volume in the reactor were measured when a mixture of Na2SO3 and H2SO4 was pumped into the solution of BrO3− with a very low rate. Batch-like pH-oscillations, similar in amplitude and period time appeared when the sulfite supply was substituted by its dissolution from a gel layer prepared previously in the reactor in presence of high concentration of Na2SO3. The dissolution vs time curve and the pH-oscillations in the semibatch and closed systems were successfully simulated. Due to the simplicity in composition and in experimental technique, the semibatch and batch-like BrO3−–SO32– pH-oscillators may become superior to their CSTR (continuous flow stirred tank reactor) version in some present and future applications.
Analytical evaluation of atomic form factors: Application to Rayleigh scattering
Authors: Safari L. , Santos J. P. , Amaro P. , Jänkälä K. , Fratini F.
Published: May 2015

Atomic form factors are widely used for the characterization of targets and specimens, from crystallography to biology. By using recent mathematical results, here we derive an analytical expression for the atomic form factor within the independent particle model constructed from nonrelativistic screened hydrogenic wave functions. The range of validity of this analytical expression is checked by comparing the analytically obtained form factors with the ones obtained within the Hartee-Fock method. As an example, we apply our analytical expression for the atomic form factor to evaluate the differential cross section for Rayleigh scattering off neutral atoms.
Two-Yukawa fluid at a hard wall: Field theory treatment
Authors: Kravtsiv I. , Patsahan T. , Holovko M. , di Caprio D.
Published: May 2015

We apply a field-theoretical approach to study the structure and thermodynamics of a two-Yukawa fluid confined by a hard wall. We derive mean field equations allowing for numerical evaluation of the density profile which is compared to analytical estimations. Beyond the mean field approximation, analytical expressions for the free energy, the pressure, and the correlation function are derived. Subsequently, contributions to the density profile and the adsorption coefficient due to Gaussian fluctuations are found. Both the mean field and the fluctuation terms of the density profile are shown to satisfy the contact theorem. We further use the contact theorem to improve the Gaussian approximation for the density profile based on a better approximation for the bulk pressure. The results obtained are compared to computer simulation data.
Normal form decomposition for Gaussian-to-Gaussian superoperators
Authors: De Palma Giacomo , Mari Andrea , Giovannetti Vittorio , Holevo Alexander S.
Published: May 2015

In this paper, we explore the set of linear maps sending the set of quantum Gaussian states into itself. These maps are in general not positive, a feature which can be exploited as a test to check whether a given quantum state belongs to the convex hull of Gaussian states (if one of the considered maps sends it into a non-positive operator, the above state is certified not to belong to the set). Generalizing a result known to be valid under the assumption of complete positivity, we provide a characterization of these Gaussian-to-Gaussian (not necessarily positive) superoperators in terms of their action on the characteristic function of the inputs. For the special case of one-mode mappings, we also show that any Gaussian-to-Gaussian superoperator can be expressed as a concatenation of a phase-space dilatation, followed by the action of a completely positive Gaussian channel, possibly composed with a transposition. While a similar decomposition is shown to fail in the multi-mode scenario, we prove that it still holds at least under the further hypothesis of homogeneous action on the covariance matrix.