bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biodiversity management of organic farming enhances agricultural sustainability
Authors: Liu Haitao , Meng Jie , Bo Wenjing , Cheng Da , Li Yong , Guo Liyue , Li Caihong , Zheng Yanhai , Liu Meizhen , Ning Tangyuan , Wu Guanglei , Yu Xiaofan , Feng Sufei , Wuyun Tana , Li Jing , Li Lijun , Zeng Yan , Liu Shi V. , Jiang Gaoming
Published: April 2016

Organic farming (OF) has been believed to be capable of curtailing some hazardous effects associated with chemical farming (CF). However, debates also exist on whether OF can feed a world with increasing human population. We hypothesized that some improvements on OF may produce adequate crops and reduce environmental pollutions from CF. This paper makes comparative analysis of crop yield, soil organic matter and economic benefits within the practice on Biodiversity Management of Organic Farming (BMOF) at Hongyi Organic Farm (HOF) over eight years and between BMOF and CF. Linking crop production with livestock to maximal uses of by-products from each production and avoid xenobiotic chemicals, we have achieved beneficial improvement in soil properties, effective pest and weed control, and increased crop yields. After eight years experiment, we have obtained a gradual but stable increase in crop yields with a 9.6-fold increase of net income. The net income of HOF was 258,827 dollars and 24,423 dollars in 2014 and 2007 respectively. Thus, BMOF can not only feed more population, but also increase adaptive capacity of agriculture ecosystems and gain much higher economic benefits.
Prognostic value of preoperative inflammatory response biomarkers in patients with sarcomatoid renal cell carcinoma and the establishment of a nomogram
Authors: Gu Liangyou , Ma Xin , Li Hongzhao , Chen Luyao , Xie Yongpeng , Zhao Chaofei , Luo Guoxiong , Zhang Xu
Published: April 2016

To examine the prognostic role of inflammatory response biomarkers in sarcomatoid renal cell carcinoma (sRCC). From January 2004 to May 2015, 103 patients with sRCC were enrolled in this study. Preoperative neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), derived neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (dNLR), platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and lymphocyte to monocyte ratio (LMR) were analyzed. Besides well-established clinicopathological prognostic factors, we evaluated the prognostic value of this four markers using Kaplan-Meier method and Cox regression models. Additionally, a nomogram was established to predict the prognosis of sRCC patients. Elevated NLR, dNLR and PLR were significantly associated with worse overall survival (OS), nevertheless, elevated LMR showed an adverse effect on reduced OS. Multivariate analysis revealed that NLR (HR = 4.07, 95% CI = 1.50–11.00, P = 0.006) retained as independent factor. Incorporation of the NLR into a prognostic model including T stage, M stage, tumor necrosis and percentage of sarcomatoid generated a nomogram, which accurately predicted OS for sRCC patients. Preoperative NLR may serve as a potential prognostic biomarker in patients with sRCC and may help with clinical decisions about treatment intervention in clinical practice. The proposed nomogram can be used for the prediction of OS in patients with sRCC.
Broadband diffusion metasurface based on a single anisotropic element and optimized by the Simulated Annealing algorithm
Authors: Zhao Yi , Cao Xiangyu , Gao Jun , Sun Yu , Yang Huanhuan , Liu Xiao , Zhou Yulong , Han Tong , Chen Wei
Published: April 2016

We propose a new strategy to design broadband and wide angle diffusion metasurfaces. An anisotropic structure which has opposite phases under x- and y-polarized incidence is employed as the “0” and “1” elements base on the concept of coding metamaterial. To obtain a uniform backward scattering under normal incidence, Simulated Annealing algorithm is utilized in this paper to calculate the optimal layout. The proposed method provides an efficient way to design diffusion metasurface with a simple structure, which has been proved by both simulations and measurements.
A novel mouse model of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma induced by liver-specific Kras activation and Pten deletion
Authors: Ikenoue Tsuneo , Terakado Yumi , Nakagawa Hayato , Hikiba Yohko , Fujii Tomoaki , Matsubara Daisuke , Noguchi Rei , Zhu Chi , Yamamoto Keisuke , Kudo Yotaro , Asaoka Yoshinari , Yamaguchi Kiyoshi , Ijichi Hideaki , Tateishi Keisuke , Fukushima Noriyoshi , Maeda Shin , Koike Kazuhiko , Furukawa Yoichi
Published: April 2016

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) is an aggressive malignancy with poor prognosis and its incidence is increasing worldwide. Recently, several types of cells have been considered as the origin of ICC, namely cholangiocytes, liver progenitor cells, and hepatocytes. Here, we have established a novel mouse model of ICC by liver-specific Kras activation and Pten deletion. An activating mutation of Kras in combination with deletion of Pten was introduced in embryonic hepatic bipotential progenitor cells (so-called hepatoblasts) and mature hepatocytes using the Cre-loxP system. As a result, liver-specific Kras activation and homozygous Pten deletion cooperated to induce ICCs exclusively. In contrast, Kras activation in combination with heterozygous Pten deletion induced both ICCs and HCCs, whereas Kras activation alone resulted in HCCs but not ICCs. Furthermore, a cell-lineage visualization system using tamoxifen-inducible Cre-loxP demonstrated that the ICCs did not originate from hepatocytes but from cholangiocytes. Our data suggest that mice carrying liver-specific Kras activation in combination with homozygous Pten deletion should be useful for the investigation of therapeutic strategies for human ICC.
Present state of the Aral Sea: diverging physical and biological characteristics of the residual basins
Authors: Izhitskiy A. S. , Zavialov P. O. , Sapozhnikov P. V. , Kirillin G. B. , Grossart H. P. , Kalinina O. Y. , Zalota A. K. , Goncharenko I. V. , Kurbaniyazov A. K.
Published: April 2016

Latest data on the hydrophysical and biological state of the residual basins of the Aral Sea are presented and compared. Direct, quasi-simultaneous observations were carried out in the central part of the Western Large Aral Sea, the northern extremity of the Large Aral known as Chernyshev Bay, Lake Tshchebas, and the Small Aral Sea in October 2014. The Large Aral Sea and Lake Tshchebas transformed into hyperhaline water bodies with highly special taxocene structure. The Small Aral Sea was a relatively diverse brackish ecosystem, which was rather similar to the pre-desiccation environment. The Small Aral Sea and Lake Tshchebas exhibited a fully-mixed vertical structure, whereas the Western Large Aral Sea was strongly stratified. Our data show that during desiccation, different parts of the Aral Sea experienced different environmental conditions, resulting in qualitative and quantitative differences in the physical and biological regimes among the different residual basins.
Highly efficient organic tandem solar cell with a SubPc interlayer based on TAPC:C70 bulk heterojunction
Authors: Gao Yuan , Jin Fangming , Li Wenlian , Su Zisheng , Chu Bei , Wang Junbo , Zhao Haifeng , Wu Hairuo , Liu Chengyuan , Hou Fuhua , Lin Tong , Song Qiaogang
Published: April 2016

We report a small molecule tandem organic photovoltaic (OPV) cell with a high power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 7.27%. This cell contains two subcells with an identical mixed active layer of C70:5 wt%TAPC (1,1-bis-(4-bis(4-methyl-phenyl)-amino-phenyl)-cyclohexane). The performance was dramatically improved by simply inserting a thin boron subphthalocyanine chloride (SubPc) interlayer, which results in an increase of the short-circuit current and open-circuit voltage as well as a decrease of the series resistance of the tandem cell. The response of the cell only contributed from the absorption of C70. The high PCE was attributed to the high absorption efficiency of C70 and improved holes extraction efficiency at the anode due to the band bending occurs at both MoO3/SubPc and SubPc/C70:5 wt%TAPC interfaces.
Switching Power Universality in Unipolar Resistive Switching Memories
Authors: Kim Jongmin , Jung Kyooho , Kim Yongmin , Jo Yongcheol , Cho Sangeun , Woo Hyeonseok , Lee Seongwoo , Inamdar A. I. , Hong Jinpyo , Lee Jeon-Kook , Kim Hyungsang , Im Hyunsik
Published: April 2016

We investigate the resistive switching power from unipolar resistive switching current-voltage characteristics in various binary metal oxide films sandwiched by different metal electrodes, and find a universal feature (the so-called universality) in the switching power among these devices. To experimentally derive the switching power universality, systematic measurements of the switching voltage and current are performed, and neither of these correlate with one another. As the switching resistance (R) increases, the switching power (P) decreases following a power law P ∝ R−β, regardless of the device configurations. The observed switching power universality is indicative of the existence of a commonly applicable switching mechanism. The origin of the power universality is discussed based on a metallic filament model and thermo-chemical reaction.
On the small angle twist sub-grain boundaries in Ti3AlC2
Authors: Zhang Hui , Zhang Chao , Hu Tao , Zhan Xun , Wang Xiaohui , Zhou Yanchun
Published: April 2016

Tilt-dominated grain boundaries have been investigated in depth in the deformation of MAX phases. In stark contrast, another important type of grain boundaries, twist grain boundaries, have long been overlooked. Here, we report on the observation of small angle twist sub-grain boundaries in a typical MAX phase Ti3AlC2 compressed at 1200 °C, which comprise hexagonal screw dislocation networks formed by basal dislocation reactions. By first-principles investigations on atomic-scale deformation and general stacking fault energy landscapes, it is unequivocally demonstrated that the twist sub-grain boundaries are most likely located between Al and Ti4f (Ti located at the 4f Wyckoff sites of P63/mmc) layers, with breaking of the weakly bonded Al–Ti4f. The twist angle increases with the increase of deformation and is estimated to be around 0.5° for a deformation of 26%. This work may shed light on sub-grain boundaries of MAX phases and provide fundamental information for future atomic-scale simulations.
Ultrasensitive Visual Detection of HIV DNA Biomarkers via a Multi-amplification Nanoplatform
Authors: Long Yuyin , Zhou Cuisong , Wang Congmin , Cai Honglian , Yin Cuiyun , Yang Qiufang , Xiao Dan
Published: April 2016

Methodologies to detect disease biomarkers at ultralow concentrations can potentially improve the standard of living. A facile and label-free multi-amplification strategy is proposed for the ultrasensitive visual detection of HIV DNA biomarkers in real physiological media. This multi-amplification strategy not only exhibits a signficantly low detection limit down to 4.8 pM but also provides a label-free, cost-effective and facile technique for visualizing a few molecules of nucleic acid analyte with the naked eye. Importantly, the biosensor is capable of discriminating single-based mismatch lower than 5.0 nM in human serum samples. Moreover, the visual sensing platform exhibits excellent specificity, acceptable reusability and a long-term stability. All these advantages could be attributed to the nanofibrous sensing platform that 1) has a high surface-area-to-volume provided by electrospun nanofibrous membrane and 2) combines glucose oxidase (GOx) biocatalysis, DNAzyme-catalyzed colorimetric reaction and catalytic hairpin assembly (CHA) recycling amplification together. This multi-amplification nanoplatform promises label-free and visual single-based mismatch DNA monitoring with high sensitivity and specificity, suggesting wide applications that range from virus detection to genetic disease diagnosis.
Effect of solution treatment on the fatigue behavior of an as-forged Mg-Zn-Y-Zr alloy
Authors: Wang S. D. , Xu D. K. , Wang B. J. , Han E. H. , Dong C.
Published: April 2016

Through investigating and comparing the fatigue behavior of an as-forged Mg-6.7Zn-1.3Y-0.6Zr (wt.%) alloy before and after solid solution treatment (T4) in laboratory air, the effect of T4 treatment on fatigue crack initiation was disclosed. S-N curves illustrated that the fatigue strength of as-forged samples was 110 MPa, whereas the fatigue strength of T4 samples was only 80 MPa. Observations to fracture surfaces demonstrated that for as-forged samples, fatigue crack initiation sites were covered with a layer of oxide film. However, due to the coarse grain structure and the dissolution of MgZn2 precipitates, the activation and accumulation of {10–12} twins in T4 samples were much easier, resulting in the preferential fatigue crack initiation at cracked twin boundaries (TBs). Surface characterization demonstrated that TB cracking was mainly ascribed to the incompatible plastic deformation in the twinned area and nearby α-Mg matrix.
Leaky-Wave Radiations by Modulating Surface Impedance on Subwavelength Corrugated Metal Structures
Authors: Cai Ben Geng , Li Yun Bo , Ma Hui Feng , Jiang Wei Xiang , Cheng Qiang , Cui Tie Jun
Published: April 2016

One-dimensional (1D) subwavelength corrugated metal structures has been described to support spoof surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs). Here we demonstrate that a periodically modulated 1D subwavelength corrugated metal structure can convert spoof SPPs to propagating waves. The structure is fed at the center through a slit with a connected waveguide on the input side. The subwavelength corrugated metal structure on the output surface is regarded as metasurface and modulated periodically to realize the leaky-wave radiation at the broadside. The surface impedance of the corrugated metal structure is modulated by using cosine function and triangle-wave function, respectively, to reach the radiation effect. Full wave simulations and measuremental results are presented to validate the proposed design.
Nemo-like kinase regulates the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in alveolar epithelial cells
Authors: Ke Hengning , Masoumi Katarzyna Chmielarska , Ahlqvist Kristofer , Seckl Michael J. , Rydell-Törmänen Kristina , Massoumi Ramin
Published: April 2016

The canonical Wnt signaling can be silenced either through β-catenin-mediated ubiquitination and degradation or through phosphorylation of Tcf and Lef by nemo-like kinase (NLK). In the present study, we generated NLK deficient animals and found that these mice become cyanotic shortly before death because of lung maturation defects. NLK−/− lungs exhibited smaller and compressed alveoli and the mesenchyme remained thick and hyperplastic. This phenotype was caused by epithelial activation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) via recruitment of Lef1 to the promoter of VEGF. Elevated expression of VEGF and activation of the VEGF receptor through phosphorylation promoted an increase in the proliferation rate of epithelial and endothelial cells. In summary, our study identifies NLK as a novel signaling molecule for proper lung development through the interconnection between epithelial and endothelial cells during lung morphogenesis.
Stone heterogeneity index as the standard deviation of Hounsfield units: A novel predictor for shock-wave lithotripsy outcomes in ureter calculi
Authors: Lee Joo Yong , Kim Jae Heon , Kang Dong Hyuk , Chung Doo Yong , Lee Dae Hun , Do Jung Hae , Kwon Jong Kyou , Cho Kang Su
Published: April 2016

We investigated whether stone heterogeneity index (SHI), which a proxy of such variations, was defined as the standard deviation of a Hounsfield unit (HU) on non-contrast computed tomography (NCCT), can be a novel predictor for shock-wave lithotripsy (SWL) outcomes in patients with ureteral stones. Medical records were obtained from the consecutive database of 1,519 patients who underwent the first session of SWL for urinary stones between 2005 and 2013. Ultimately, 604 patients with radiopaque ureteral stones were eligible for this study. Stone related variables including stone size, mean stone density (MSD), skin-to-stone distance, and SHI were obtained on NCCT. Patients were classified into the low and high SHI groups using mean SHI and compared. One-session success rate in the high SHI group was better than in the low SHI group (74.3% vs. 63.9%, P = 0.008). Multivariate logistic regression analyses revealed that smaller stone size (OR 0.889, 95% CI: 0.841–0.937, P < 0.001), lower MSD (OR 0.995, 95% CI: 0.994–0.996, P < 0.001), and higher SHI (OR 1.011, 95% CI: 1.008–1.014, P < 0.001) were independent predictors of one-session success. The radiologic heterogeneity of urinary stones or SHI was an independent predictor for SWL success in patients with ureteral calculi and a useful clinical parameter for stone fragility.
Development and application of a rapid and visual loop-mediated isothermal amplification for the detection of Sporisorium scitamineum in sugarcane
Authors: Su Yachun , Yang Yuting , Peng Qiong , Zhou Dinggang , Chen Yun , Wang Zhuqing , Xu Liping , Que Youxiong
Published: April 2016

Smut is a fungal disease with widespread prevalence in sugarcane planting areas. Early detection and proper identification ofSporisorium scitamineumare essential in smut management practices. In the present study, four specific primers targeting the core effectorPep1gene ofS. scitamineumwere designed. Optimal concentrations of Mg2+, primer andBstDNA polymerase, the three important components of the loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) reaction system, were screened using a single factor experiment method and the L16(45) orthogonal experimental design. Hence, a LAMP system suitable for detection ofS. scitamineumwas established. High specificity of the LAMP method was confirmed by the assay ofS. scitamineum,Fusarium moniliforme,Pestalotia ginkgo,Helminthospcrium sacchari,Fusarium oxysporumand endophytes of Yacheng05-179 and ROC22. The sensitivity of the LAMP method was equal to that of the conventional PCR targetingPep1gene and was 100 times higher than that of the conventional PCR assay targetingbEgene inS. scitamineum. The results suggest that this novel LAMP system has strong specificity and high sensitivity. This method not only provides technological support for the epidemic monitoring of sugarcane smut, but also provides a good case for development of similar detection technology for other plant pathogens.
Peptide-mediated vectorization of metal complexes: conjugation strategies and biomedical applications
Authors: Soler Marta , Feliu Lidia , Planas Marta , Ribas Xavi , Costas Miquel
Published: April 2016

The rich chemical and structural versatility of transition metal complexes provides numerous novel paths to be pursued in the design of molecules that exert particular chemical or physicochemical effects that could operate over specific biological targets.
A morphospace for synthetic organs and organoids: the possible and the actual
Authors: Ollé-Vila Aina , Duran-Nebreda Salva , Conde-Pueyo Núria , Montañez Raúl , Solé Ricard
Published: April 2016

Guiding synthetic organ exploration through acknowledging self-organisation and evolutionary constraints in the morphospace of the possible and the actual.
Impact of chabazite SSZ-13 textural properties and chemical composition on CO2 adsorption applications
Authors: Prodinger Sebastian , Vemuri Rama S. , Varga Tamas , Peter McGrail B. , Motkuri Radha Kishan , Derewinski Miroslaw A.
Published: April 2016

A narrow pore zeolite was synthesized with different Si/Al ratios and micro- to nanoparticle size where both played an important role in CO2 adsorption.
Nanoclay stabilized Pickering miniemulsion of fluorinated copolymer with improved hydrophobicity via RAFT polymerization
Authors: Chakrabarty Arindam , Ponnupandian Siva , Naskar Kinsuk , Singha Nikhil K.
Published: April 2016

Fluoropolymer/clay nanocomposite with improved polymer–clay interaction via electrostatic attraction was prepared by Pickering miniemulsion polymerization.
Highly enantioselective bioreduction of 1-(3,4-difluorophenyl)-3-nitropropan-1-one: key intermediate of ticagrelor
Authors: Singh Manpreet , Krishnen Hare , Neelam Uday Kumar , Charugondla Kavitha , Gilla Goverdhan , Holt-Tiffin Karen , Bandichhor Rakeshwar
Published: April 2016

A simple, highly effective and economical whole-cell mediated process was developed for the biocatalytic reduction of a ketone, intermediate in the synthesis of platelet inhibiting drug ticagrelor.
Asymmetric supercapacitor based on VS2 nanosheets and activated carbon materials
Authors: Masikhwa Tshifhiwa M. , Barzegar Farshad , Dangbegnon Julien K. , Bello Abdulhakeem , Madito Moshawe J. , Momodu Damilola , Manyala Ncholu
Published: April 2016

Asymmetric supercapacitor with VS2 nanosheets as positive and activated carbon materials as negative electrodes exhibited maximum energy density (42 W h kg−1).
Visible light responsive mesoporous graphene–Eu2O3/TiO2 nanocomposites for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of 4-chlorophenol
Authors: Myilsamy Mallanaicker , Mahalakshmi Mani , Subha Nallasivam , Rajabhuvaneswari Ariyamuthu , Murugesan Velayutham
Published: April 2016

Graphene and europium co-doped on TiO2 nanocomposites synergistically enhanced the photocatalytic degradation of 4-chlorophenol under visible light due to the enhanced specific surface area with red shift and improved charge transfer efficiency.
Effect of surface modification on electrochemical performance of nano-sized Si as an anode material for Li-ion batteries
Authors: Li Chao , Shi Tongfei , Li Decheng , Yoshitake Hideyuki , Wang Hongyu
Published: April 2016

Silicon is one of the most promising anode materials for lithium-ion batteries.
On the application of the tolerance factor to inorganic and hybrid halide perovskites: a revised system
Authors: Travis W. , Glover E. N. K. , Bronstein H. , Scanlon D. O. , Palgrave R. G.
Published: April 2016

Can new hybrid perovskites be predicted using the tolerance factor?
Harnessing viscoelasticity and instabilities for tuning wavy patterns in soft layered composites
Authors: Slesarenko Viacheslav , Rudykh Stephan
Published: April 2016

We harness instabilities and viscoelasticity to tune wavy patterns in soft layered composites. Through experiments on 3D printed soft laminates, and through numerical simulations, we demonstrate the existence of various instability-induced wavy patterns corresponding to identical deformed states of identical soft composites.
Application of fast-scan cyclic voltammetry for the in vivo characterization of optically evoked dopamine in the olfactory tubercle of the rat brain
Authors: Wakabayashi Ken T. , Bruno Michael J. , Bass Caroline E. , Park Jinwoo
Published: April 2016

Dopamine regulation in the rat brain olfactory tubercle was characterized by fast-scan cyclic voltammetry coupled with carbon–fiber microelectrodes and optogenetics.
Voltammetric detection of glutathione: an adsorptive stripping voltammetry approach
Authors: Areias Madalena C. C. , Shimizu Kenichi , Compton Richard G.
Published: April 2016

High sensitive detection of glutathione in presence of copper(ii) ions by cyclic voltammetry using a bare glassy carbon electrode is presented.
A rapid and simple UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS method for the screening of propyl propane thiosulfonate, a new additive for animal feed
Authors: Abad Paloma , Arroyo-Manzanares Natalia , García-Campaña Ana M.
Published: April 2016

Allium derivative propyl propane thiosulfonate (PTSO) is a new additive for animal feed which improves animal health when used as an alternative to antibiotic growth promoters.
Analytical methodologies using carbon substrates developed by pyrolysis
Authors: Benavidez Tomás E. , Martinez-Duarte Rodrigo , Garcia Carlos D.
Published: April 2016

As a viable alternative with respect to carbon-based materials prepared by vapor deposition, the pyrolysis of non-volatile organic precursors has allowed the fabrication of substrates with advantageous properties towards the development of analytical methodologies.
Analysis of herbicide atrazine and its degradation products in cereals by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry
Authors: Liang Shuxuan , Dong Xinfeng , Su Ming , Sun Hanwen
Published: April 2016

A novel ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS) method was developed for the first time for the determination of herbicide atrazine (ATR) and its principal metabolites namely desisopropylatrazine (DIA), desethylatrazine (DEA) and hydroxyatrazine (HA) in cereals.
Determination of mercury(ii) ions in aqueous solution using silver nanorods as a probe
Authors: Karthiga D. , Rajeshwari A. , Chakravarty Sujay , Chandrasekaran N. , Mukherjee Amitava
Published: April 2016

A method for the sensitive and selective determination of Hg2+was developed based on the aggregation and re-aggregation of silver nanorods (SNRs) in the presence of dithiothreitol.
Supported gold nanoparticles catalyzed cis-selective semihydrogenation of alkynes using ammonium formate as the reductant
Authors: Liang Shengzong , Hammond Gerald B. , Xu Bo
Published: April 2016

TiO2 supported gold nanoparticles with a low loading (0.5 mol%) are able to semihydrogenate non-fluorinated and gem-difluorinated alkynes to cis-alkenes with high selectivity, using cost-effective and easy-to-handle ammonium formate as the reductant.
Controlled DNA condensation and targeted cellular imaging by ligand exchange in a polysaccharide–quantum dot conjugate
Authors: Zhang Yu-Hui , Zhang Ying-Ming , Yang Yang , Chen Li-Xia , Liu Yu
Published: April 2016

A polysaccharide–quantum dots hybrid nanosystem was constructed, which could be utilized as a supramolecular nanoplatform in nucleic acid binding and selective cellular imaging.
Photo-activation of d0 niobium imido azides: en route to nitrido complexes
Authors: Camp Clément , Grant Lauren N. , Bergman Robert G. , Arnold John
Published: April 2016

We report the synthesis and photo-reactivity of d0 niobium imido azido complexes supported by β-diketiminate ligands, which leads to the unprecedented formation of nitrides through a photo-assisted intramolecular rearrangement.
Identification of genes encoding squalestatin S1 biosynthesis and in vitro production of new squalestatin analogues
Authors: Bonsch B. , Belt V. , Bartel C. , Duensing N. , Koziol M. , Lazarus C. M. , Bailey A. M. , Simpson T. J. , Cox R. J.
Published: April 2016

Biosynthetic gene clusters encoding the production of squalestatin S1 have been discovered and exploited to produce new analogs.
Pt–M (M = Cu, Fe, Zn, etc.) bimetallic nanomaterials with abundant surface defects and robust catalytic properties
Authors: Mao Junjie , Chen Yuanjun , Pei Jiajing , Wang Dingsheng , Li Yadong
Published: April 2016

By manipulating both the “stacking” and “carving” routes at the nanoscale, we successfully fabricated a class of Pt-based bimetallic NCs with defect-rich surface structures, which exhibited robust electrocatalytic performance toward both MOR and ORR compared with commercial Pt/C catalysts due to their abundant surface defects (high density of low-coordinated atoms such as steps, edges and kinked atoms).
Direct electrical transport measurement on a single thermoelectric nanowire embedded in an alumina template
Authors: Ben Khedim Meriam , Cagnon Laurent , Garagnon Christophe , Serradeil Valerie , Bourgault Daniel
Published: April 2016

We present an easy approach for the investigation of electrical transport of single nanowires by directly nanoprobing the controlled overgrowth of nanowires.
Oxidation of chlorinated alkanes over Co3O4/SBA-15 catalysts. Structural characterization and reaction mechanism
Authors: Gonzalez-Prior Jonatan , Gutierrez-Ortiz Jose Ignacio , Lopez-Fonseca Ruben , Busca Guido , Finocchio Elisabetta , de Rivas Beatriz
Published: April 2016

This work presents novel results on the application of Co3O4/SBA-15 catalysts for the oxidation of chlorinated hydrocarbons.
Water oxidation using earth-abundant transition metal catalysts: opportunities and challenges
Authors: Kärkäs Markus D. , Åkermark Björn
Published: April 2016

Catalysts for the oxidation of water are a vital component of solar energy to fuel conversion technologies. This Perspective summarizes recent advances in the field of designing homogeneous water oxidation catalysts (WOCs) based on Mn, Fe, Co and Cu.
An experimental study on arsoles: structural variation, optical and electronic properties, and emission behavior
Authors: Ishidoshiro Makoto , Imoto Hiroaki , Tanaka Susumu , Naka Kensuke
Published: April 2016

The attractive properties of arsoles have been theoretically studied, while experimental studies have been avoided. The practical synthesis of arsoles has realized not only the experimental proof but also novel observation.
Post-combustion carbon dioxide capture cost reduction to 2030 and beyond
Authors: Adderley B. , Carey J. , Gibbins J. , Lucquiaud M. , Smith R.
Published: April 2016

Post-combustion CO2 capture (PCC) can be achieved using a variety of technologies. Importantly it is applicable to a wide range of processes and may also be retrofitted in certain cases. This paper covers the use of PCC for low carbon power generation from new natural gas combined cycle (NGCC) plants that are expected to be built in the UK in the 2020s and 2030s and that will run into the 2050s. Costs appear potentially comparable with other low carbon and controllable generation sources such as nuclear or renewables plus storage, especially with the lower gas prices that can be expected in a carbon-constrained world. Non-fuel cost reduction is still, however, desirable and, since CO2 capture is a new application, significant potential is likely to exist. For the NGCC+PCC examples shown in this paper, moving from ‘first of a kind’ (FOAK) to ‘nth of a kind’ (NOAK) gives significant improvements through both reduced financing costs and capital cost reductions. To achieve this the main emphasis needs to be on ‘commercial readiness’, rather than on system-level ‘technical readiness’, and on improvements through innovation activities, supported by underpinning research, that develop novel sub-processes; this will also maintain NOAK status for cost-effective financing. Feasible reductions in the energy penalty for PCC capture have much less impact, reflecting the inherently high levels of efficiency for modern NGCC+PCC plants.
Dynamic behaviors of astrocytes in chemically modified fibrin and collagen hydrogels
Authors: Seyedhassantehrani Negar , Li Yongchao , Yao Li
Published: April 2016

Astrocytes play a critical role in supporting the normal physiological function of neurons in the central nervous system (CNS).
Mechanochemical solid-state synthesis of 2-aminothiazoles, quinoxalines and benzoylbenzofurans from ketones by one-pot sequential acid- and base-mediated reactions
Authors: Nagarajaiah Honnappa , Mishra Abhaya Kumar , Moorthy Jarugu Narasimha
Published: April 2016

Diverse 2-aminothiazoles, quinoxalines and benzofurans are obtained in respectable yields by one-pot solid-state sequential acid- and base-mediated reactions under ball milling conditions.
A fluorescent sensor for Zn2+ and NO2− based on the rational control of CN isomerization
Authors: Liu Zheng , Peng Cuina , Wang Ying , Pei Meishan , Zhang Guangyou
Published: April 2016

L could be used as a fluorescent sensor towards Zn2+ and NO2− based on the control of CN isomerization.
Catalytic alcoholysis of epoxides using metal-free cucurbituril-based solids
Authors: Bruno Sofia M. , Gomes Ana C. , Oliveira Tânia S. M. , Antunes Margarida M. , Lopes André D. , Valente Anabela A. , Gonçalves Isabel S. , Pillinger Martyn
Published: April 2016

Cucurbit[7]uril containing entrapped hydronium ions possesses unique acid properties as demonstrated by its ability to catalyse alcoholysis reactions under mild conditions.
Preservation of main-chain conjugation through BODIPY-containing alternating polymers from electronic interactions with side-chain substituents by cardo boron structures
Authors: Yamane Honami , Ito Shunichiro , Tanaka Kazuo , Chujo Yoshiki
Published: April 2016

This manuscript describes the synthesis and electronic structures of the modified boron dipyrromethene derivatives containing cardo boron.
Reduced graphene oxide/ZnO nanocomposite for application in chemical gas sensors
Authors: Galstyan Vardan , Comini Elisabetta , Kholmanov Iskandar , Faglia Guido , Sberveglieri Giorgio
Published: April 2016

Coupling of graphene-based materials with metal oxide nanostructures is an effective way to obtain composites with improved gas sensing properties.
An environmentally friendly route to synthesize Cu micro/nanomaterials with “sustainable oxidation resistance” and promising catalytic performance
Authors: Liu Xinmei , Sui Yongming , Yang Xinyi , Jiang Lina , Wei Yingjin , Kong Lingwei , Zou Bo
Published: April 2016

Cu micro/nanomaterials with sustainable oxidation resistance and promising catalytic performance.
Chemical bonding states and solar selective characteristics of unbalanced magnetron sputtered TixM1−x−yNyfilms
Authors: Rahman M. Mahbubur , Jiang Zhong-Tao , Munroe Paul , Chuah Lee Siang , Zhou Zhi-feng , Xie Zonghan , Yin Chun Yang , Ibrahim Khalil , Amri Amun , Kabir Humayun , Haque Md Mahbubul , Mondinos Nick , Altarawneh Mohammednoor , Dlugogorski Bogdan Z.
Published: April 2016

Transition metal nitride TixM1−x−yNy(M = Al or AlSi) based thin films are evaluated as solar selective surfaces by correlating their spectral selective features with their crystal structure and chemical bonding state including mechanical strength.
SO3H-functionalized metal organic frameworks: an efficient heterogeneous catalyst for the synthesis of quinoxaline and derivatives
Authors: Andriamitantsoa Radoelizo S. , Wang Jingjing , Dong Wenjun , Gao Hongyi , Wang Ge
Published: April 2016

The high dispersed –SO3H groups in the framework of MIL-101-Cr–NH–RSO3H ensure high catalytic activity for the condensation of 1,2-diamines with benzil. The catalyst exhibits good stability, general applicability and excellent recycling performance.
Enhanced photoelectrochemical performance of electrodeposited hematite films decorated with nanostructured NiMnOx
Authors: Bhandary Nimai , Singh Aadesh P. , Ingole Pravin P. , Basu Suddhasatwa
Published: April 2016

In the present work, we report a novel nickel-manganese oxide (NiMnOx) decorated hematite (α-Fe2O3) photoanode for efficient water splitting in a photoelectrochemical (PEC) cell.
Neural stem cell neural differentiation in 3D extracellular matrix and endoplasmic reticulum stress microenvironment
Authors: Liu Yan-Qiu , Zhan Li-Bin , Bi Ting-Ting , Liang Li-Na , Sun Xiao-Xin , Sui Hua
Published: April 2016

Neural stem cell neural differentiation was protected by nanomatrix and extracellular matrix proteins under the endoplasmic reticulum stress condition.
The formation mechanism of a Er3+-doped heterojunction ms/tz-BiVO4 with enhanced photocatalytic performance under visible light
Authors: Chen Ruizhi , Wu Ping , Ma Xueming , Jiang Dongmei
Published: April 2016

The formation mechanism of Er3+ doped heterojunction BiVO4 and enhanced photocatalysis.
Acidity-triggered surface charge neutralization and aggregation of functionalized nanoparticles for promoted tumor uptake
Authors: Yu Ting-Wei , Lu I.-Lin , Huang Wen-Chia , Hu Shang-Hsiu , Hung Chia-Chian , Chiang Wen-Hsuan , Chiu Hsin-Cheng
Published: April 2016

A polymeric nanovehicle featured with histidine-rich surface was developed for tumor-targeted delivery of doxorubicin.
Strongly coupled Mn3O4–porous organic polymer hybrid: a robust, durable and potential nanocatalyst for alcohol oxidation reactions
Authors: Dhanalaxmi Karnekanti , Singuru Ramana , Kundu Sudipta K. , Reddy Benjaram Mahipal , Bhaumik Asim , Mondal John
Published: April 2016

Porous organic polymer encapsulated Mn3O4 nanoneedles exhibited catalytic activity in the oxidation of diverse alcohols with tremendous recyclability.
Pseudo-Casimir stresses and elasticity of a confined elastomer film
Authors: Lu Bing-Sui , Naji Ali , Podgornik Rudolf
Published: April 2016

Thermal fluctuations of the cross-links in a confined, incompressible elastomer film lead to significant departures from the predictions of the classical rubber elasticity theory and, in particular, to a pseudo-Casimir stress whose scaling with the film thickness depends on the types of interfacial boundary conditions.
Mechanistic studies of the agmatine deiminase from Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Soares Charles A. , Knuckley Bryan
Published: April 2016

Listeria monocytogenes is a Gram-positive food-borne pathogen that is capable of living within extreme environments (i.e. low temperatures and pH). This ability to survive in such conditions may arise, at least in part, from agmatine catabolism via the agmatine deiminase system (AgDS). This catabolic pathway utilizes an agmatine deiminase (AgD) to hydrolyse agmatine into N-carbamoylputrescine (NCP), with concomitant release of ammonia, which increases the pH, thus mitigating the ill effects of the acidic environment. Given the potential significance of this pathway for cell survival, we set out to study the catalytic mechanism of the AgD encoded by L. monocytogenes. In the present paper, we describe the catalytic mechanism employed by this enzyme based on pH profiles, pKa measurements of the active site cysteine and solvent isotope effects (SIE). In addition, we report inhibition of this enzyme by two novel AgD inhibitors, i.e. N-(4-aminobutyl)-2-fluoro-ethanimidamide (ABFA) and N-(4-aminobutyl)-2-chloro-ethanimidamide (ABCA). In contrast with other orthologues, L. monocytogenes AgD does not use the reverse protonation or substrate-assisted mechanism, which requires an active site cysteine with a high pKa and has been commonly seen in other members of the guanidinium-modifying enzyme (GME) superfamily. Instead, the L. monocytogenes AgD has a low pKa cysteine in the active site leading to an alternative mechanism of catalysis. This is the first time that this mechanism has been observed in the GME superfamily and is significant because it explains why previously developed mechanism-based inactivators of AgDs are ineffective against this orthologue.
Event‐triggered distributed filtering for non‐Gaussian systems over wireless sensor networks using survival information potential criterion
Authors: Zhang Jianhua , Kuai Yamin , Ren Mifeng , Luo Zhongli , Lin Mingming
Published: April 2016

In this study, an event‐triggered distributed filtering problem is investigated for non‐Gaussian systems over wireless sensor networks (WSNs). Each sensor node transmits the data to its neighbours according to predetermined send‐on‐delta (SoD) communication mechanism. Since stochastic disturbances imposed on WSNs and plants and stochastic behaviour induced by WSNs are usually non‐Gaussian, the survival information potential criterion is employed to construct a distributed filter for each sensor node subject to sporadic communications over WSNs and non‐Gaussian disturbances. In addition, the energy constraints on filter gain are also taken into account. The incremental filtering algorithm is given and the boundedness of the filter parameter is also analysed. The effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is verified by an illustrative example.
Event‐triggered cooperative compensation control for consensus of heterogeneous multi‐agent systems
Authors: Cui Yanliang , Fei Minrui , Du Dajun
Published: April 2016

This paper addresses the event‐triggered consensus for heterogeneous multi‐agent systems (He‐MASs) via a distributed cooperative compensation control (D3C) strategy. The proposed D3C law involves two dynamics: (i) a pre‐given virtual leader, which specifies the synchronisation trajectory for whole He‐MASs; (ii) two intermediate compensation system, whose system state is broadcasted to neighbour agents through communication network for facilitating the consensus. To further reduce data exchanging frequency so as to alleviate communication burden, an exponential event‐trigger is employed to determine whether the current sampled data need to be broadcasted or suspended. By two concise algebraic Riccati inequalities and some supplement conditions, a sufficient collaborative design method is presented for obtaining the values of D3C gains and the thresholds of event‐trigger, while the Zeno phenomena is also excluded. The proposed strategy guarantees the consensus of He‐MASs and significantly reduces data exchanging amounts. Finally, some illustrative examples are given to validate effectiveness of the proposed results.
Compact frequency reconfigurable filtennas using varactor loaded T‐shaped and H‐shaped resonators for cognitive radio applications
Authors: Atallah Hany A. , Abdel‐Rahman Adel B. , Yoshitomi Kuniaki , Pokharel Ramesh K.
Published: April 2016

In this study, novel compact filtennas with large tunable frequency band are proposed for cognitive radio (CR) applications. Tunability is achieved by integrating a tunable T‐shaped and H‐shaped bandpass filter with a planar ultra‐wideband monopole antenna. The T‐shaped filter consists of a microstrip resonator loaded with a stub. The H‐shaped filter is composed of two connected microstrip resonators. The proposed tuning technique for both filters is based on centrally loading the stub and the H‐shaped with only a single varactor for miniaturisation. Increasing the varactor capacitance results in decreasing the even resonant mode of the resonator without affecting the dominant odd mode. Measurements results show that the proposed T‐shaped and H‐shaped filtennas are capable of tuning over a wide operating band of 1.68 and 1.73 GHz covering continuous bands for CR communication with 32.9% frequency tuning range (TR) from 4.26 to 5.94 GHz and with 36.7% frequency TR from 3.85 to 5.58 GHz, respectively. Moreover, the radiation patterns are stable over the operating frequency ranges. The frequency characteristics and radiation performance are successfully optimised using 3D full‐wave electromagnetic simulator. The fabricated designs are measured for verification purposes. Good agreements are found between simulated and measured results.
The preparation of states in quantum mechanics
Authors: Fröhlich Jürg , Schubnel Baptiste
Published: April 2016

The important problem of how to prepare a quantum mechanical system, S, in a specific initial state of interest—e.g., for the purposes of some experiment—is addressed. Three distinct methods of state preparation are described. One of these methods has the attractive feature that it enables one to prepare S in a preassigned initial state with certainty, i.e., the probability of success in preparing S in a given state is unity. This method relies on coupling S to an open quantum-mechanical environment, E, in such a way that the dynamics of S∨E pulls the state of S towards an “attractor,” which is the desired initial state of S. This method is analyzed in detail.
LiFePO4 battery state of charge estimation based on the improved Thevenin equivalent circuit model and Kalman filtering
Authors: Xu Zhu , Gao Shibin , Yang Shunfeng
Published: April 2016

Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries are widely used as power batteries for electric vehicle applications. For safety issues, it is important to estimate the State of Charge (SOC) of a battery accurately. The improved Thevenin equivalent circuit model is established according to the characteristics of the LiFePO4 battery, and the model parameters are identified by experimental testing. Furthermore, a novel algorithm of SOC online estimation is proposed, which combines the open-circuit voltage method, ampere-hour integration, and Kalman filtering. The simulations and experimental results show that the improved Thevenin equivalent circuit model can enhance the accuracy of SOC estimation. This proposed algorithm could estimate the SOC precisely even with inaccurate initial values and current measurement errors and distinguish the performances between the batteries. The performance of the proposed SOC estimation method when the voltage sensor is unavailable has been investigated and presented as well. From the characteristics mentioned above, this novel approach is able to guarantee the reliability and safety of the batteries.
Simple model of a coherent molecular photocell
Authors: Ernzerhof Matthias , Bélanger Marc-André , Mayou Didier , Nemati Aram Tahereh
Published: April 2016

Electron transport in molecular electronic devices is often dominated by a coherent mechanism in which the wave function extends from the left contact over the molecule to the right contact. If the device is exposed to light, photon absorption in the molecule might occur, turning the device into a molecular photocell. The photon absorption promotes an electron to higher energy levels and thus modifies the electron transmission probability through the device. A model for such a molecular photocell is presented that minimizes the complexity of the problem while providing a non-trivial description of the device mechanism. In particular, the role of the molecule in the photocell is investigated. It is described within the Hückel method and the source-sink potential approach [F. Goyer, M. Ernzerhof, and M. Zhuang, J. Chem. Phys. 126, 144104 (2007)] is used to eliminate the contacts in favor of complex-valued potentials. Furthermore, the photons are explicitly incorporated into the model through a second-quantized field. This facilitates the description of the photon absorption process with a stationary state calculation, where eigenvalues and eigenvectors are determined. The model developed is applied to various generic molecular photocells.
Instability of a water-spout flow
Authors: Carrión Luis , Herrada Miguel A. , Shtern Vladimir N.
Published: April 2016

The paper studies the linear stability of a steady axisymmetric air-water motion in a vertical sealed cylinder, driven by the rotating top disk, motivated by possible applications in aerial bioreactors. As the flow strength Re increases, a vortex breakdown bubble (VBB) emerges near the bottom center and expands toward the interface. Regions of clockwise meridional circulation of air and water become separated by a thin anticlockwise circulation layer (TCL) adjacent to the interface in water. This study reveals that instability develops for larger Re than those at which VBB and TCL emerge. The instability focuses in the air region being typically of shear-layer type. The instability is centrifugal if the air volume fraction is small.
Numerical simulation of a collapsing bubble subject to gravity
Authors: Koukouvinis P. , Gavaises M. , Supponen O. , Farhat M.
Published: April 2016

The present paper focuses on the simulation of the expansion and aspherical collapse of a laser-generated bubble subjected to an acceleration field and comparison of the results with instances from high-speed videos. The interaction of the liquid and gas is handled with the volume of fluid method. Compressibility effects have been included for each phase to predict the propagation of pressure waves. Initial conditions were estimated through the Rayleigh Plesset equation, based on the maximum bubble size and collapse time. The simulation predictions indicate that during the expansion the bubble shape is very close to spherical. On the other hand, during the collapse the bubble point closest to the bottom of the container develops a slightly higher collapse velocity than the rest of the bubble surface. Over time, this causes momentum focusing and leads to a positive feedback mechanism that amplifies the collapse locally. At the latest collapse stages, a jet is formed at the axis of symmetry, with opposite direction to the acceleration vector, reaching velocities of even 300 m/s. The simulation results agree with the observed bubble evolution and pattern from the experiments, obtained using high speed imaging, showing the collapse mechanism in great detail and clarity.