bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrated live imaging and molecular profiling of embryoid bodies reveals a synchronized progression of early differentiation
Authors: Boxman Jonathan , Sagy Naor , Achanta Sirisha , Vadigepalli Rajanikanth , Nachman Iftach
Published: August 2016

Embryonic stem cells can spontaneously differentiate into cell types of all germ layers within embryoid bodies (EBs) in a highly variable manner. Whether there exists an intrinsic differentiation program common to all EBs is unknown. Here, we present a novel combination of high-throughput live two-photon imaging and gene expression profiling to study early differentiation dynamics spontaneously occurring within developing EBs. Onset timing of Brachyury-GFP was highly variable across EBs, while the spatial patterns as well as the dynamics of mesendodermal progression following onset were remarkably similar. We therefore defined a ‘developmental clock’ using the Brachyury-GFP signal onset timing. Mapping snapshot gene expression measurements to this clock revealed their temporal trends, indicating that loss of pluripotency, formation of primitive streak and mesodermal lineage progression are synchronized in EBs. Exogenous activation of Wnt or BMP signaling accelerated the intrinsic clock. CHIR down-regulated Wnt3, allowing insights into dependency mechanisms between canonical Wnt signaling and multiple genes. Our findings reveal a developmental clock characteristic of an early differentiation program common to all EBs, further establishing them as an in vitro developmental model.
Up- regulation of miR-328-3p sensitizes non-small cell lung cancer to radiotherapy
Authors: Ma Wei , Ma Chao-nan , Zhou Nan-nan , Li Xian-dong , Zhang Yi-jie
Published: August 2016

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are believed to be resistant against radiotherapy in certain types of cancers. The aim of our study was to determine the clinical application of miRNAs in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Sixty NSCLC tissue samples and adjacent histologically normal tissues were obtained for miRNAs microarray analysis and validated by RT-qPCR. Correlation between miRNA expression level and clinicopathological features was evaluated. Our study examined the influence of changed miRNA expression on the damaged DNA and its associated radio sensitivity. Luciferase assay was performed to determine potential effects on the targeted gene. Our study identified fifteen altered miRNAs in which miR-328-3p was down regulated in NSCLC tumour tissue as compared to normal tissues. Down-expression of miR-328-3p was positively associated with an enhanced lymph node metastasis, advanced clinical stage and a shortened survival rate. miR-328-3p expression was decreased in A549 cells compared to other NSCLC cell lines. Up-regulation of miR-328-3p demonstrated a survival inhibition effect in A549 and restored NSCLC cells’ sensitivity to radio therapy. An increased miR-328-3p expression promoted irradiation-induced DNA damage in cells. γ-H2AX was identified as the direct target of miR-328-3p. Over-expressed miR-328-3p can improve the radiosensitvity of cells by altering the DNA damage/repair signalling pathways in NSCLC.
Green bean biofortification for Si through soilless cultivation: plant response and Si bioaccessibility in pods
Authors: Montesano Francesco Fabiano , D’Imperio Massimiliano , Parente Angelo , Cardinali Angela , Renna Massimiliano , Serio Francesco
Published: August 2016

Food plants biofortification for micronutrients is a tool for the nutritional value improvement of food. Soilless cultivation systems, with the optimal control of plant nutrition, represent a potential effective technique to increase the beneficial element content in plant tissues. Silicon (Si), which proper intake is recently recommended for its beneficial effects on bone health, presents good absorption in intestinal tract from green bean, a high-value vegetable crop. In this study we aimed to obtain Si biofortified green bean pods by using a Si-enriched nutrient solution in soilless system conditions, and to assess the influence of boiling and steaming cooking methods on Si content, color parameters and Si bioaccessibility (by using an in vitro digestion process) of pods. The Si concentration of pods was almost tripled as a result of the biofortification process, while the overall crop performance was not negatively influenced. The Si content of biofortified pods was higher than unbiofortified also after cooking, despite the cooking method used. Silicon bioaccessibility in cooked pods was more than tripled as a result of biofortification, while the process did not affect the visual quality of the product. Our results demonstrated that soilless cultivation can be successfully used for green bean Si biofortification.
The γ-Protocadherin-C3 isoform inhibits canonical Wnt signalling by binding to and stabilizing Axin1 at the membrane
Authors: Mah Kar Men , Houston Douglas W. , Weiner Joshua A.
Published: August 2016

The 22 γ-Protocadherin (γ-Pcdh) adhesion molecules encoded by the Pcdhg gene cluster play critical roles in nervous system development, including regulation of dendrite arborisation, neuronal survival, and synaptogenesis. Recently, they have been implicated in suppression of tumour cell growth by inhibition of canonical Wnt signalling, though the mechanisms through which this occurs remain unknown. Here, we show differential regulation of Wnt signalling by individual γ-Pcdhs: The C3 isoform uniquely inhibits the pathway, whilst 13 other isoforms upregulate signalling. Focusing on the C3 isoform, we show that its unique variable cytoplasmic domain (VCD) is the critical one for Wnt pathway inhibition. γ-Pcdh-C3, but not other isoforms, physically interacts with Axin1, a key component of the canonical Wnt pathway. The C3 VCD competes with Dishevelled for binding to the DIX domain of Axin1, which stabilizes Axin1 at the membrane and leads to reduced phosphorylation of Wnt co-receptor Lrp6. Finally, we present evidence that Wnt pathway activity can be modulated up (by γ-Pcdh-A1) or down (by γ-Pcdh-C3) in the cerebral cortex in vivo, using conditional transgenic alleles. Together, these data delineate opposing roles for γ-Pcdh isoforms in regulating Wnt signalling and identify Axin1 as a novel protein interactor of the widely-expressed γ-Pcdh-C3 isoform.
Light-Driven Reversible Shaping of Individual Azopolymeric Micro-Pillars
Authors: Pirani Federica , Angelini Angelo , Frascella Francesca , Rizzo Riccardo , Ricciardi Serena , Descrovi Emiliano
Published: August 2016

Azopolymers are known to exhibit a strong light responsivity known as athermal photofluidization. Although the underlying physics is still under debate, athermal photofluidization has been demonstrated to trigger mass-migration according to the polarization of a proper illumination light. Here, a polymer blend is proposed wherein a commercial azo-polyelectrolyte is mixed with a passive polymer. The blend is patterned as an array of micro-pillars that are individually exposed to visible laser illumination. Thanks to the interplay between the two blend components, a reversible and controlled deformation of the micro-pillars by periodically tuning the laser polarization in time is demonstrated. A reduced mobility of the azo-compound allows to repeatibly elongate and rotate micro-pillars along specific directions, with no significant material flow outisde the initial volume and no significant degradation of the structure morphology over several cycles. The proposed work suggests new degrees of freedom in controlling the mechanical features of micro-patterned light-responsive materials that can be usefully exploited in many application fields.
Cellular adhesome screen identifies critical modulators of focal adhesion dynamics, cellular traction forces and cell migration behaviour
Authors: Fokkelman Michiel , Balcıoğlu Hayri E. , Klip Janna E. , Yan Kuan , Verbeek Fons J. , Danen Erik H. J. , van de Water Bob
Published: August 2016

Cancer cells migrate from the primary tumour into surrounding tissue in order to form metastasis. Cell migration is a highly complex process, which requires continuous remodelling and re-organization of the cytoskeleton and cell-matrix adhesions. Here, we aimed to identify genes controlling aspects of tumour cell migration, including the dynamic organization of cell-matrix adhesions and cellular traction forces. In a siRNA screen targeting most cell adhesion-related genes we identified 200+ genes that regulate size and/or dynamics of cell-matrix adhesions in MCF7 breast cancer cells. In a subsequent secondary screen, the 64 most effective genes were evaluated for growth factor-induced cell migration and validated by tertiary RNAi pool deconvolution experiments. Four validated hits showed significantly enlarged adhesions accompanied by reduced cell migration upon siRNA-mediated knockdown. Furthermore, loss of PPP1R12B, HIPK3 or RAC2 caused cells to exert higher traction forces, as determined by traction force microscopy with elastomeric micropillar post arrays, and led to considerably reduced force turnover. Altogether, we identified genes that co-regulate cell-matrix adhesion dynamics and traction force turnover, thereby modulating overall motility behaviour.
Immune tolerance to an intestine-adapted bacteria, Chryseobacterium sp., injected into the hemocoel of Protaetia brevitarsis seulensis
Authors: Lee Jiae , Hwang Sejung , Cho Saeyoull
Published: August 2016

To explore the interaction of gut microbes and the host immune system, bacteria were isolated from the gut of Protaetia brevitarsis seulensis larvae. Chryseobacterium sp., Bacillus subtilis, Arthrobacter arilaitensis, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Bacillus megaterium, and Lysinibacillus xylanilyticus were cultured in vitro, identified, and injected in the hemocoel of P. brevitarsis seulensis larvae, respectively. There were no significant changes in phagocytosis-associated lysosomal formation or pathogen-related autophagosome in immune cells (granulocytes) from Chryseobacterium sp.-challenged larvae. Next, we examined changes in the transcription of innate immune genes such as peptidoglycan recognition proteins and antimicrobial peptides following infection with Chryseobacterium sp. PGRP-1 and -2 transcripts, which may be associated with melanization generated by prophenoloxidase (PPO), were either highly or moderately expressed at 24 h post-infection with Chryseobacterium sp. However, PGRP-SC2 transcripts, which code for bactericidal amidases, were expressed at low levels. With respect to antimicrobial peptides, only coleoptericin was moderately expressed in Chryseobacterium sp.-challenged larvae, suggesting maintenance of an optimum number of Chryseobacterium sp. All examined genes were expressed at significantly higher levels in larvae challenged with a pathogenic bacterium. Our data demonstrated that gut-inhabiting bacteria, the Chryseobacterium sp., induced a weaker immune response than other pathogenic bacteria, E. coli K12.
SNP-based high density genetic map and mapping of btwd1 dwarfing gene in barley
Authors: Ren Xifeng , Wang Jibin , Liu Lipan , Sun Genlou , Li Chengdao , Luo Hong , Sun Dongfa
Published: August 2016

A high-density linkage map is a valuable tool for functional genomics and breeding. A newly developed sequence-based marker technology, restriction site associated DNA (RAD) sequencing, has been proven to be powerful for the rapid discovery and genotyping of genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers and for the high-density genetic map construction. The objective of this research was to construct a high-density genetic map of barley using RAD sequencing. 1894 high-quality SNP markers were developed and mapped onto all seven chromosomes together with 68 SSR markers. These 1962 markers constituted a total genetic length of 1375.8 cM and an average of 0.7 cM between adjacent loci. The number of markers within each linkage group ranged from 209 to 396. The new recessive dwarfing gene btwd1 in Huaai 11 was mapped onto the high density linkage maps. The result showed that the btwd1 is positioned between SNP marks 7HL_6335336 and 7_249275418 with a genetic distance of 0.9 cM and 0.7 cM on chromosome 7H, respectively. The SNP-based high-density genetic map developed and the dwarfing gene btwd1 mapped in this study provide critical information for position cloning of the btwd1 gene and molecular breeding of barley.
Clinical features and management of multifocal hepatic hemangiomas in children: a retrospective study
Authors: Ji Yi , Chen Siyuan , Xiang Bo , Xu Zhicheng , Jiang Xiaoping , Liu Xingtao , Wang Qi , Lu Guoyan , Yang Li
Published: August 2016

Multifocal hepatic hemangioma (MHH) is a benign hepatic tumor that is commonly diagnosed in children with multiple cutaneous infantile hemangiomas (IHs). We present a review of all children with MHH at our institutions. Of the 42 patients, the median age at presentation of MHH was 2.5 months. Thirty-six (85.7%) patients had cutaneous IHs. Twelve (28.6%) patients were symptomatic at presentation. There was no significant association between the number of hepatic hemangiomas and the number of cutaneous IHs. Fourteen (33.3%) patients received some form of treatment for hepatic hemangiomas. The most common type of treatment was oral prednisone in 8 patients, followed by oral propranolol in 6 patients. Two patients were totally resistant to prednisone treatment. They died from congestive heart failure or respiratory distress and coagulopathy. Two patients with problematic facial IH were treated with intralesional triamcinolone injection. The remaining 26 patients were managed with imaging surveillance. On follow-up, all of the survivors had a favorable outcome. Our study suggests that the clinical features of MHH are variable. Our data emphasize the treatment strategy that aggressive treatment is indicated in symptomatic or progressive MHHs, whereas observation management of asymptomatic patients with a few small lesions is safe and appropriate.
Ignavine: a novel allosteric modulator of the μ opioid receptor
Authors: Ohbuchi Katsuya , Miyagi Chika , Suzuki Yasuyuki , Mizuhara Yasuharu , Mizuno Keita , Omiya Yuji , Yamamoto Masahiro , Warabi Eiji , Sudo Yuka , Yokoyama Akinobu , Miyano Kanako , Hirokawa Takatsugu , Uezono Yasuhito
Published: August 2016

Processed Aconiti tuber (PAT) is used to treat pain associated with various disorders. Although it has been demonstrated that the κ opioid receptor (KOR) signaling pathway is a mediator of the analgesic effect of PAT, active components affecting opioid signaling have not yet been identified. In this study, we explored candidate components of PAT by pharmacokinetic analysis and identified ignavine, which is a different structure from aconitine alkaloids. A receptor binding assay of opioid receptors showed that ignavine specifically binds the μ opioid receptor (MOR), not the KOR. Receptor internalization assay in MOR-expressing cell lines revealed that ignavine augmented the responses produced by D-Ala(2)-N-Me-Phe(4)-Gly-ol(5)-enkephalin (DAMGO), a representative MOR agonist, at a low concentration and inhibited it at a higher concentration. Ignavine also exerted positive modulatory activity for DAMGO, endomorphin-1 and morphine in cAMP assay. Additionally, ignavine alone showed an analgesic effect in vivo. In silico simulation analysis suggested that ignavine would induce a unique structural change distinguished from those induced by a representative MOR agonist and antagonist. These data collectively suggest the possibility that ignavine could be a novel allosteric modulator of the MOR. The present results may open the way for the development of a novel pain management strategy.
Pathophysiology of the inner ear after blast injury caused by laser-induced shock wave
Authors: Niwa Katsuki , Mizutari Kunio , Matsui Toshiyasu , Kurioka Takaomi , Matsunobu Takeshi , Kawauchi Satoko , Satoh Yasushi , Sato Shunichi , Shiotani Akihiro , Kobayashi Yasushi
Published: August 2016

The ear is the organ that is most sensitive to blast overpressure and ear damage is most frequently seen after blast exposure. Blast overpressure to the ear results in sensorineural hearing loss, which is untreatable and is often associated with a decline in the quality of life. In this study, we used a rat model to demonstrate the pathophysiological and structural changes in the inner ear that replicate pure sensorineural hearing loss associated with blast injury using laser-induced shock wave (LISW) without any conductive hearing loss. Our results indicate that threshold elevation of the auditory brainstem response (ABR) after blast exposure was primarily caused by outer hair cell dysfunction induced by stereociliary bundle disruption. The bundle disruption pattern was unique; disturbed stereocilia were mostly observed in the outermost row, whereas those in the inner and middle rows stereocilia remained intact. In addition, the ABR examination showed a reduction in wave I amplitude without elevation of the threshold in the lower energy exposure group. This phenomenon was caused by loss of the synaptic ribbon. This type of hearing dysfunction has recently been described as hidden hearing loss caused by cochlear neuropathy, which is associated with tinnitus or hyperacusis.
Immobilization of isolated FI catalyst on polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane-functionalized silica for the synthesis of weakly entangled polyethylene
Authors: Li Wei , Yang Huaqin , Zhang Jingjing , Mu Jingshan , Gong Dirong , Wang Xiaodong
Published: August 2016

POSS-functionalized silica can isolate the anchored FI catalysts and hinder chain overlap in the polymerization of ethylene.
A facile way to fabricate anisotropic P3HT films by combining epitaxy and electrochemical deposition
Authors: Ren Zhongjie , Zhang Xing , Li Huihui , Sun Xiaoli , Yan Shouke
Published: August 2016

Large-area highly-ordered P3HT films were obtained by epitaxial crystallization on the highly-oriented i-PP substrates through in situ electrodeposition.
A biotin-guided formaldehyde sensor selectively detecting endogenous concentrations in cancerous cells and tissues
Authors: Lee Yun Hak , Tang Yonghe , Verwilst Peter , Lin Weiying , Kim Jong Seung
Published: August 2016

A biotin appended formaldehyde sensor was found to visualise exogenous and endogenous formaldehyde levels in living cells and tumour tissues.
Correction: Three-dimensional protein assemblies directed by orthogonal non-covalent interactions
Authors: Yang Guang , Kochovski Zdravko , Ji Zhongwei , Lu Yan , Chen Guosong , Jiang Ming
Published: August 2016

Correction for ‘Three-dimensional protein assemblies directed by orthogonal non-covalent interactions’ by Guang Yang et al., Chem. Commun., 2016, 52, 9687–9690.
Coronene-based metal–organic framework: a theoretical exploration
Authors: Chakravarty Chandrima , Mandal Bikash , Sarkar Pranab
Published: August 2016

A new coronene-based 2D metal–organic framework with interesting magnetic and electronic and remarkable spin-filtering properties has been proposed.
Anti-inflammatory activity and enhanced COX-2 selectivity of nitric oxide-donating zinc(ii)–NSAID complexes
Authors: Lakshman Triloke Ranjan , Deb Jolly , Paine Tapan Kanti
Published: August 2016

Zinc(ii)–NSAID complexes of 1,10-phenanthrolinefuroxan release nitric oxide, and exhibit anti-inflammatory activities via selective COX-2 inhibition.
Adjustable coordination of a hybrid phosphine–phosphine oxide ligand in luminescent Cu, Ag and Au complexes
Authors: Dau Thuy Minh , Asamoah Benjamin Darko , Belyaev Andrey , Chakkaradhari Gomathy , Hirva Pipsa , Jänis Janne , Grachova Elena V. , Tunik Sergey P. , Koshevoy Igor O.
Published: August 2016

The mixed-donor ligand shows variable binding ability with respect to d10metal ions to afford a series of mono- and dinuclear complexes with tunable photophysical characteristics.
A core–shell electrode for dynamically and statically stable Li–S battery chemistry
Authors: Chung Sheng-Heng , Chang Chi-Hao , Manthiram Arumugam
Published: August 2016

The design of a core–shell sulfur cathode demonstrates superior dynamic and static stability at a high sulfur loading in Li–S batteries.
The biology of environmental stress: molecular biomarkers in Sydney rock oysters (Saccostrea glomerata)
Authors: Raftos D. A. , Melwani A. R. , Haynes P. A. , Muralidharan S. , Birch G. F. , Amaral V. , Thompson E. L. , Taylor D. A.
Published: August 2016

This review describes our recent work on environmental stress in Sydney rock oysters, focusing on the identification of molecular biomarkers for ecotoxicological analysis.
Silver nanoparticle–protein interactions in intact rainbow trout gill cells
Authors: Yue Yang , Behra Renata , Sigg Laura , Suter Marc J.-F. , Pillai Smitha , Schirmer Kristin
Published: August 2016

Upon contact with biota, nanoparticles can bind to proteins, which coat the nanoparticles. We reveal the identity of these proteins from living vertebrate cells.
Carbonaceous nano-additives augment microwave-enabled thermal remediation of soils containing petroleum hydrocarbons
Authors: Apul Onur G. , Delgado Anca G. , Kidd Justin , Alam Fabiha , Dahlen Paul , Westerhoff Paul
Published: August 2016

Remediating soils contaminated with heavy hydrocarbons (C12–C40) from petrochemical exploration activities is a major environmental challenge across the globe.
Enhanced energy harvesting by concentration gradient-driven ion transport in SBA-15 mesoporous silica thin films
Authors: Hwang Junho , Kataoka Sho , Endo Akira , Daiguji Hirofumi
Published: August 2016

The MPS-based energy harvester with uniaxially aligned sub-3 nm nanopores generates the highest power density, 3.90 W m−2.
Identifying RNA 5-methylcytosine sites via pseudo nucleotide compositions
Authors: Feng Pengmian , Ding Hui , Chen Wei , Lin Hao
Published: August 2016

RNA 5-methylcytosine (m5C) has been discovered from archaea to eukaryotes, which is catalyzed by RNA methyltransferase.
A luminescence switch-on assay for the detection of specific gene deletion using G-quadruplex DNA and silver nanoclusters
Authors: Wang Modi , Wang Wanhe , Liu Chenfu , Liu Jinbiao , Kang Tian-Shu , Leung Chung-Hang , Ma Dik-Lung
Published: August 2016

A switch-on gene deletion detection platform is constructed based on the alteration of the effective distance between G-quadruplex DNA and AgNCs.
Catalysis by multifunctional polyelectrolyte capsules
Authors: Hussain Syed Zajif , Zyuzin Mikhail V. , Hussain Irshad , Parak Wolfgang J. , Carregal-Romero Susana
Published: August 2016

Gold and iron oxide modified polyelectrolyte capsules have been used as multifunctional platforms for catalysis and magnetic separation. Gold nanoparticle size and shell composition had an influence on their catalytic activity.
Production of martite nanoparticles with high energy planetary ball milling for heterogeneous Fenton-like process
Authors: Rahmani Amir , Khataee Alireza , Kaymak Baris , Vahid Behrouz , Fathinia Mehrangiz , Dindarsafa Mahsa
Published: August 2016

Natural martite microparticles (NMMs) were prepared with a high energy planetary ball mill to form a nanocatalyst for a Fenton-like process.
Non-enzymatic simultaneous detection of l-glutamic acid and uric acid using mesoporous Co3O4 nanosheets
Authors: Hussain Mohammad Musarraf , Rahman Mohammed M. , Asiri Abdullah M. , Awual Md. Rabiul
Published: August 2016

Co3O4 nanosheets were synthesized by wet chemical technique at low-temperature in alkaline phase.
Metal coordination enhanced Ni–Co@N-doped porous carbon core–shell microsphere bi-functional electrocatalyst and its application in rechargeable zinc/air batteries
Authors: Wang Mengran , Liu Yexiang , Zhang Kai , Yu Fan , Qin Furong , Fang Jing , Lai Yanqing , Li Jie
Published: August 2016

Primary and rechargeable zinc/air batteries could be the next generation of energy storage devices because of their high power density and safety.
Preparative separation of quaternary ammonium alkaloids from Caulis Mahoniae by conventional and pH-zone-refining counter-current chromatography
Authors: Zhu Heng , Wang Daijie , Wen Lei , Yu Jinqian , Geng Yanling , Zhao Hengqiang , Zhao Ruixuan , Wang Xiao
Published: August 2016

Compared with the conventional HSCCC, PZRCCC is an efficient and rapid method for separation of quaternary ammonium alkaloids because of the high concentration of fractions and large sample loading capacity.
Preparation of macroscopic spherical porous carbons@carboxymethylcellulose sodium gel beads and application for removal of tetracycline
Authors: He Jinsong , Dai Jiangdong , Xie Atian , Tian Sujun , Chang Zhongshuai , Yan Yongsheng , Huo Pengwei
Published: August 2016

We report a new convenient macroscopic granular adsorbent for the removal of tetracycline from water by immobilizing porous carbons into carboxymethylcellulose sodium gel beads.
Graphitized porous carbon nanofibers prepared by electrospinning as anode materials for lithium ion batteries
Authors: Zhu Shoupu , Sun Jing , Wu Tian , Su Xun , Su Haiming , Qu Shanshan , Xie Yongjuan , Chen Ming , Diao Guowang
Published: August 2016

Graphitized porous carbon nanofibers were prepared by electrospinning and subsequent calcining, exhibiting high capacity and good cycling stability.
Well-monocrystallized LaCrO3particles from a LaCrO4precursor by supercritical hydrothermal technique
Authors: Girish H.-N. , Shao G.-Q. , Basavalingu B.
Published: August 2016

LaCrO3based materials are currently utilized in a variety of electrical applications at high temperature.
H2S emission in sludge conditioning with different inorganic salt coagulants and its relationships with sludge properties
Authors: Gao Hongyu , Zhang Weijun , Song Zhenzhen
Published: August 2016

Inorganic coagulants are always used to pre-condition wastewater sludge, since their hydrolyzed products can function as flocculants to support floc structure and reduce sludge compressibility. H2S gas produced during this process was collected using an absorption liquid.
Effect of high-pressure homogenization on structural, thermal and rheological properties of bambara starch complexed with different fatty acids
Authors: Oyeyinka Samson A. , Singh Suren , Ma Ying , Amonsou Eric O.
Published: August 2016

The effect of high-pressure homogenization (HPH) on the degree of complexation of different fatty acids with bambara starch was studied.
A series of tetraphenylethene-based benzimidazoles: syntheses, structures, aggregation-induced emission and reversible mechanochromism
Authors: Zhang Tengfei , Zhang Ran , Zhang Zhaoming , Ni Zhonghai
Published: August 2016

A new series of tetraphenylethene-based benzimidazoles (2a–2d) were designed and synthesized. These compounds exhibit bifunctional AIE and reversible mechanochromic properties.
A review on non-electro nanofibre spinning techniques
Authors: Stojanovska Elena , Canbay Emine , Pampal Esra Serife , Calisir Mehmet D. , Agma Onur , Polat Yusuf , Simsek Ramazan , Gundogdu N. A. Serhat , Akgul Yasin , Kilic Ali
Published: August 2016

A large surface area, scalable porosity, and versatility have made nanofibres one of the most widely investigated morphologies among the nanomaterials.
Co-adsorption of O2 and H2O on Al(111) surface: a vdW-DFT study
Authors: Wei Xin , Dong Chaofang , Chen Zhanghua , Xiao Kui , Li Xiaogang
Published: August 2016

Using first-principles calculations based on van der Waals density functional theory, we systematically studied the co-adsorption behavior of H2O and O2 on Al(111) surfaces.
Encapsulation of multi-stimuli AIE active platinum(ii) complex: a facile and dry approach for luminescent mesoporous silica
Authors: Pasha Sheik Saleem , Alam Parvej , Sarmah Amrit , Roy Ram Kinkar , Laskar Inamur Rahaman
Published: August 2016

We report the dissociation of a yellow emitting excimeric and AIE active Pt(ii) complex into the green emitting monomeric form after crushing with mesoporous silica (MS) followed by its encapsulation within the pores of MS.
Influence of a non-biodegradable porous structure on bone repair
Authors: Lu Xiao , Wang Yingjun , Jin Fangchun
Published: August 2016

Pore and interconnection size are two key structural parameters for bone tissue engineering scaffolds.
Solution-processed UV light emitting diode based on butyltriphenylsilane modified phenanthro[9,10-d]imidazole with high efficiency
Authors: Gao Zhao , Liu Fangming , Li Jinyu , Cheng Gang , Lu Ping
Published: August 2016

A solution-processed device using SiBPI as an active layer achieves a high ηext of 1.76% with CIE coordinates of (0.158, 0.042).
Robust superhydrophilic patterning of superhydrophobic ormosil surfaces for high-throughput on-chip screening applications
Authors: Beyazkilic Pinar , Tuvshindorj Urandelger , Yildirim Adem , Elbuken Caglar , Bayindir Mehmet
Published: August 2016

This article describes a facile method for the preparation of two-dimensionally patterned superhydrophobic hybrid coatings with controlled wettability.
A laboratory-scale continuous flow chlorine generator for organic synthesis
Authors: Strauss Franz J. , Cantillo David , Guerra Javier , Kappe C. Oliver
Published: August 2016

A continuous flow chlorine generator for organic synthesis based on the reaction of HCl with NaOCl has been developed.
Photomodulation of bacterial growth and biofilm formation using carbohydrate-based surfactants
Authors: Hu Yingxue , Zou Wenyue , Julita Villy , Ramanathan Rajesh , Tabor Rico F. , Nixon-Luke Reece , Bryant Gary , Bansal Vipul , Wilkinson Brendan L.
Published: August 2016

The photocontrollable antibacterial and biofilm modulatory activity of a panel of light responsive carbohydrate-based surfactants is reported.
Coordination compound-derived ordered mesoporous N-free Fe–Px–C material for efficient oxygen electroreduction
Authors: Li C. , Chen Z. , Ni Y. , Kong F. , Kong A. , Shan Y.
Published: August 2016

N-free Fe–P–C electrocatalysts for oxygen electroreduction, with competitive activity to Fe–N–C materials, were obtained by the using (Ph3P)2Fe(CO)3-nanocasting techniques.
Cooperative tin oxide fullerene electron selective layers for high-performance planar perovskite solar cells
Authors: Ke Weijun , Zhao Dewei , Xiao Chuanxiao , Wang Changlei , Cimaroli Alexander J. , Grice Corey R. , Yang Mengjin , Li Zhen , Jiang Chun-Sheng , Al-Jassim Mowafak , Zhu Kai , Kanatzidis Mercouri G. , Fang Guojia , Yan Yanfa
Published: August 2016

Fullerene passivated tin oxide electron selective layers enhance the performance of planar perovskite solar cells.
Diacylglycerol acyltransferase-2 and monoacylglycerol acyltransferase-2 are ubiquitinated proteins that are degraded by the 26S proteasome
Authors: Brandt Curtis , McFie Pamela J. , Stone Scot J.
Published: August 2016

Acyl-CoA:1,2-diacylglycerol acyltransferase (DGAT)-2 is one of the two DGAT enzymes that catalyzes the synthesis of triacylglycerol, which is an important form of stored energy for eukaryotic organisms. There is currently limited information available regarding how DGAT2 and triacylglycerol synthesis are regulated. Recent studies have indicated that DGAT2 can be regulated by changes in gene expression. How DGAT2 is regulated post-transcriptionally remains less clear. In this study, we demonstrated that DGAT2 is a very unstable protein and is rapidly degraded in an ubiquitin-dependent manner via the proteasome. Many of the 25 lysines present in DGAT2 appeared to be involved in promoting its degradation. However, the six C-terminal lysines were the most important in regulating stability. We also demonstrated that acyl-CoA:monoacylglycerol acyltransferase (MGAT)-2, an enzyme with extensive sequence homology to DGAT2 that catalyzes the synthesis of diacylglycerol, was also ubiquitinated. However, MGAT2 was found to be much more stable than DGAT2. Interestingly, when co-expressed, MGAT2 appeared to stabilize DGAT2. Finally, we found that both DGAT2 and MGAT2 are substrates of the endoplasmic reticulum-associated degradation pathway.
Double‐loop control strategy for SRGs
Authors: Wang Qing , Chen Hao , Zhao Renming
Published: August 2016

In this study, a novel double‐loop control strategy is proposed to improve performance of switched reluctance generator (SRG) systems. The proposed double‐loop control contains a power loop to control output power and an efficiency loop to optimise system efficiency. Development of the double‐loop control contains three parts. First, a modified angle–voltage control (MAVC) scheme is developed to control phase current over the entire operating range. Second, firing parameters are optimised to enlarge the output power range when the SRG is controlled by MAVC. The turn‐off angle is calculated by a simplified model; the turn‐on angle and the DC‐link voltage are optimised by differential evaluation algorithm. Third, an online mechanical power estimator is designed, with which the input mechanical power can be estimated for online efficiency optimisation in the efficiency loop. In the end, simulation and experimental results are presented to validate resulting improvements of the proposed control strategy.
Model predictive control method for CHB multi‐level inverter with reduced calculation complexity and fast dynamics
Authors: Kim Igim , Chan Roh , Kwak Sangshin
Published: August 2016

Finite control set model predictive control (MPC) method needs calculations corresponding to the total number of voltage vectors made by power converters. This operating principle of the MPC leads to an increase in the computational load and number of calculations, which dramatically increase proportional to the increase in the level of cascaded H‐bridge (CHB) inverters. However, it is difficult to consider all voltage vectors to find the optimal vector for high‐level CHB inverters because of the short sampling time. This study proposes a new MPC algorithm to reduce the number of calculations for multi‐level CHB inverters, in which only three voltage vectors are considered as optimal vectors regardless of the level of CHB inverters. Consequently, compared with the conventional MPC method for CHB inverters, the proposed MPC method requires fewer calculations and reduces the computational load without affecting the system performance and dynamic response.
Highway travel time estimation using multiple data sources
Authors: Pirc Jure , Turk Goran , Žura Marijan
Published: August 2016

Travel time is considered the most useful travel related information as it is the best indicator of the level of service on the road stretch and is completely understandable to all users. Various technologies for measuring traffic flow parameters provide the optimal background for the implementation of data fusion schemes to gain the maximum accuracy from the combination of the available data. The objective of the data fusion is to gain knowledge of predicted departure based travel time from the two outdated accurate measurements. In this paper a new and simple algorithm is proposed for short‐term highway travel time prediction by fusing direct travel time measurements estimated by vehicle reidentification, indirect travel time estimated by the extrapolation of spot speed measurements and additional qualitative data in terms of the level of service. The proposed algorithm has been in operation on the A1 highway in Slovenia for more than two years and has shown robust behaviour in the real world environment. The algorithm is capable of providing short‐term travel time prediction in real time with a 9 % better accuracy than the presently used travel time prediction algorithms.
Performance optimisation of control channel in ForCES‐based software defined network
Authors: Li Chuanhuang , Gong Liang , Cen Lijie , Wang Weiming
Published: August 2016

The traditional network architecture cannot meet the growing needs of increasingly diverse network applications. The new generation network architectures, software defined network (SDN) which have features of high openness, flexibility, scalability and high controllability have widely been studied. However, a series of new problems are also produced in this new architecture, such as security problem resulted from the high openness, and performance problem resulted from the high flexibility. Currently, the researchers are mainly concentrated in the implementation and standardisation of SDN. There is no good approach to evaluate and optimise the system performance. This studies the performance problems unresolved in SDN research area, and proposed an idea and method to analyse the control channel of ForCES (Forwarding and Control Element Separation)‐based SDN by using the stochastic network calculus theory. First, the architecture of ForCES‐based SDN is introduced. Then, the performance model of the channel is given. Based on the model, an optimisation method to performance is detailed. This study also gives a simulation by using NS‐2 (Network Simulator, Version 2) to verify the correctness and reliability of the performance model.
Mixed‐modulated linear frequency modulated radar‐communications
Authors: Nowak Michael J. , Zhang Zhiping , LoMonte Lorenzo , Wicks Michael , Wu Zhiqiang
Published: August 2016

Increasing congestion of the electromagnetic spectrum has spurred investigation into approaches that provide more efficient spectrum use. While many approaches focus on some type of orthogonality in time, frequency, or coding, another less explored option is mixed modulation of two complementary signals through intentional modulation of pulse. This study discusses intentional modulation of a linear frequency modulated (LFM) chirp radar pulse with a communications signal in order to conduct complementary activities with a combined signal. In order to reduce cross‐interference between the signals, the communications message employs spread‐spectrum encoding (binary M‐sequences) and new modulation scheme with reduced phase change to modulate the LFM waveform. Preferred pair of M‐sequences exhibit excellent auto‐correlation and low cross‐correlation properties that lend themselves to simultaneous transmission of channelised communication signals. The proposed approach is to modulate a radar signal with preferred pair M‐sequences using binary reduced phase shift keying modulation that provides a low throughput, communications signal that could be used for administrative or navigation purposes. To measure effect on radar performance, comparison of the radar ambiguity function for the LFM signal is contrasted with combined radar‐communication signal.
Generation of large-area and glow-like surface discharge in atmospheric pressure air
Authors: Song Ying , Xia Yang , Bi Zhenhua , Wang Xueyang , Qi Zhihua , Ji Longfei , Li Bin , Liu Dongping
Published: August 2016

A large-area (6 cm × 6 cm) air surface dielectric barrier discharge has been generated at atmospheric pressure by using well-aligned and micron-sized dielectric tubes with tungsten wire electrodes. Intensified CCD images with an exposure time of 5 ns show that the uniform surface air discharge can be generated during the rising and falling time of pulsed DC voltage. Current and voltage and optical measurements confirm the formation of glow-like air discharges on the surface of micron-sized dielectric tubes. Simulation results indicate that the microelectrode configuration contributes to the formation of strong surface electric field and plays an important role in the generation of uniform surface air discharge.
The multi-spectral line-polarization MSE system on Alcator C-Mod
Authors: Mumgaard R. T. , Scott S. D. , Khoury M.
Published: August 2016

A multi-spectral line-polarization motional Stark effect (MSE-MSLP) diagnostic has been developed for the Alcator C-Mod tokamak wherein the Stokes vector is measured in multiple wavelength bands simultaneously on the same sightline to enable better polarized background subtraction. A ten-sightline, four wavelength MSE-MSLP detector system was designed, constructed, and qualified. This system consists of a high-throughput polychromator for each sightline designed to provide large étendue and precise spectral filtering in a cost-effective manner. Each polychromator utilizes four narrow bandpass interference filters and four custom large diameter avalanche photodiode detectors. Two filters collect light to the red and blue of the MSE emission spectrum while the remaining two filters collect the beam pi and sigma emission generated at the same viewing volume. The filter wavelengths are temperature tuned using custom ovens in an automated manner. All system functions are remote controllable and the system can be easily retrofitted to existing single-wavelength line-polarization MSE systems.
Neutron emission spectroscopy of DT plasmas at enhanced energy resolution with diamond detectors
Authors: Giacomelli L. , Nocente M. , Rebai M. , Rigamonti D. , Milocco A. , Tardocchi M. , Chen Z. J. , Du T. F. , Fan T. S. , Hu Z. M. , Peng X. Y. , Hjalmarsson A. , Gorini G. ,   JET Contributors
Published: August 2016

This work presents measurements done at the Peking University Van de Graaff neutron source of the response of single crystal synthetic diamond (SD) detectors to quasi-monoenergetic neutrons of 14-20 MeV. The results show an energy resolution of 1% for incoming 20 MeV neutrons, which, together with 1% detection efficiency, opens up to new prospects for fast ion physics studies in high performance nuclear fusion devices such as SD neutron spectrometry of deuterium-tritium plasmas heated by neutral beam injection.
Travelling-wave and separated variable solutions of a nonlinear Schroedinger equation
Authors: Bountis Tassos , Nobre Fernando D.
Published: August 2016

Some interesting nonlinear generalizations have been proposed recently for the linear Schroedinger, Klein-Gordon, and Dirac equations of quantum and relativistic physics. These novel equations involve a real parameter q and reduce to the corresponding standard linear equations in the limit q → 1. Their main virtue is that they possess plane-wave solutions expressed in terms of a q-exponential function that can vanish at infinity, while preserving the Einstein energy-momentum relation for all q. In this paper, we first present new travelling wave and separated variable solutions for the main field variable Ψ(x→,t), of the nonlinear Schroedinger equation (NLSE), within the q-exponential framework, and examine their behavior at infinity for different values of q. We also solve the associated equation for the second field variable Φ(x→,t), derived recently within the context of a classical field theory, which corresponds to Ψ∗(x→,t) for the linear Schroedinger equation in the limit q → 1. For x ∈ ℜ, we show that certain perturbations of these q-exponential solutions Ψ(x, t) and Φ(x, t) are unbounded and hence would lead to divergent probability densities over the full domain −∞ < x < ∞. However, we also identify ranges of q values for which these solutions vanish at infinity, and may therefore be physically important.
Space- and time-resolved resistive measurements of liquid metal wall thickness
Authors: Mirhoseini S. M. H. , Volpe F. A.
Published: August 2016

In a fusion reactor internally coated with liquid metal, it will be important to diagnose the thickness of the liquid at various locations in the vessel, as a function of time, and possibly respond to counteract undesired bulging or depletion. The electrical conductance between electrodes immersed in the liquid metal can be used as a simple proxy for the local thickness. Here a matrix of electrodes is shown to provide spatially and temporally resolved measurements of liquid metal thickness in the absence of plasma. First a theory is developed for m × n electrodes, and then it is experimentally demonstrated for 3 × 1 electrodes, as the liquid stands still or is agitated by means of a shaker. The experiments were carried out with Galinstan, but are easily extended to lithium or other liquid metals.
Percolation in binary and ternary mixtures of patchy colloids
Authors: Seiferling Felix , de las Heras Daniel , Telo da Gama Margarida M.
Published: August 2016

We investigate percolation in binary and ternary mixtures of patchy colloidal particles theoretically and using Monte Carlo simulations. Each particle has three identical patches, with distinct species having different types of patch. Theoretically we assume tree-like clusters and calculate the bonding probabilities using Wertheim’s first-order perturbation theory for association. For ternary mixtures, we find up to eight fundamentally different percolated states. The states differ in terms of the species and pairs of species that have percolated. The strongest gel is a trigel or tricontinuous gel, in which each of the three species has percolated. The weakest gel is a mixed gel in which all of the particles have percolated, but none of the species percolates by itself. The competition between entropy of mixing and internal energy of bonding determines the stability of each state. Theoretical and simulation results are in very good agreement. The only significant difference is the temperature at the percolation threshold, which is overestimated by the theory due to the absence of correlations between bonds in the theoretical description.
Structure and thermodynamics of a mixture of patchy and spherical colloids: A multi-body association theory with complete reference fluid information
Authors: Bansal Artee , Asthagiri D. , Cox Kenneth R. , Chapman Walter G.
Published: August 2016

A mixture of solvent particles with short-range, directional interactions and solute particles with short-range, isotropic interactions that can bond multiple times is of fundamental interest in understanding liquids and colloidal mixtures. Because of multi-body correlations, predicting the structure and thermodynamics of such systems remains a challenge. Earlier Marshall and Chapman [J. Chem. Phys. 139, 104904 (2013)] developed a theory wherein association effects due to interactions multiply the partition function for clustering of particles in a reference hard-sphere system. The multi-body effects are incorporated in the clustering process, which in their work was obtained in the absence of the bulk medium. The bulk solvent effects were then modeled approximately within a second order perturbation approach. However, their approach is inadequate at high densities and for large association strengths. Based on the idea that the clustering of solvent in a defined coordination volume around the solute is related to occupancy statistics in that defined coordination volume, we develop an approach to incorporate the complete information about hard-sphere clustering in a bulk solvent at the density of interest. The occupancy probabilities are obtained from enhanced sampling simulations but we also develop a concise parametric form to model these probabilities using the quasichemical theory of solutions. We show that incorporating the complete reference information results in an approach that can predict the bonding state and thermodynamics of the colloidal solute for a wide range of system conditions.
High resolution Thomson Parabola Spectrometer for full spectral capture of multi-species ion beams
Authors: Alejo A. , Kar S. , Tebartz A. , Ahmed H. , Astbury S. , Carroll D. C. , Ding J. , Doria D. , Higginson A. , McKenna P. , Neumann N. , Scott G. G. , Wagner F. , Roth M. , Borghesi M.
Published: August 2016

We report on the experimental characterisation of laser-driven ion beams using a Thomson Parabola Spectrometer (TPS) equipped with trapezoidally shaped electric plates, proposed by Gwynne et al. [Rev. Sci. Instrum. 85, 033304 (2014)]. While a pair of extended (30 cm long) electric plates was able to produce a significant increase in the separation between neighbouring ion species at high energies, deploying a trapezoidal design circumvented the spectral clipping at the low energy end of the ion spectra. The shape of the electric plate was chosen carefully considering, for the given spectrometer configuration, the range of detectable ion energies and species. Analytical tracing of the ion parabolas matches closely with the experimental data, which suggests a minimal effect of fringe fields on the escaping ions close to the wedged edge of the electrode. The analytical formulae were derived considering the relativistic correction required for the high energy ions to be characterised using such spectrometer.