bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Paracrine effects of haematopoietic cells on human mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Zhou Shuanhu
Published: June 2015

Stem cell function decline during ageing can involve both cell intrinsic and extrinsic mechanisms. Bone and blood formation are intertwined in bone marrow, therefore haematopoietic cells and bone cells could be extrinsic factors for each other. In this study, we assessed the paracrine effects of extrinsic factors from haematopoietic cells on human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Our data showed that haematopoietic cells stimulate proliferation, osteoblast differentiation and inhibit senescence of MSCs; TNF-α, PDGF-β, Wnt1, 4, 6, 7a and 10a, sFRP-3 and sFRP-5 are dominantly expressed in haematopoietic cells; the age-related increase of TNF-α in haematopoietic cells may perform as a negative factor in the interactions of haematopoietic cells on MSCs via TNF-α receptors and then activating NF-κB signaling or Wnt/β-catenin signaling to induce senescence and reduce osteoblast differentiation in MSCs. In conclusion, our data demonstrated that there are paracrine interactions of haematopoietic cells on human MSCs; immunosenescence may be one of the extrinsic mechanisms by which skeletal stem cell function decline during human skeletal ageing.
Nonsurgical deep uterine transfer of vitrified, in vivo-derived, porcine embryos is as effective as the default surgical approach
Authors: Martinez Emilio A. , Martinez Cristina A , Nohalez Alicia , Sanchez-Osorio Jonatan , Vazquez Juan M. , Roca Jordi , Parrilla Inmaculada , Gil Maria A. , Cuello Cristina
Published: June 2015

Surgical procedures are prevalent in porcine embryo transfer (ET) programs, where the use of vitrified embryos is quasi non-existent. This study compared the effectiveness of surgical vs nonsurgical deep uterine (NsDU) ET using vitrified, in vivo-derived embryos (morulae and blastocysts) on the reproductive performance and welfare of the recipients. The recipient sows (n = 122) were randomly assigned to one of the following groups: surgical ET with 30 vitrified-warmed embryos (S-30 group, control); NsDU-ET with 30 vitrified-warmed embryos (NsDU-30 group) and NsDU-ET with 40 vitrified-warmed embryos (NsDU-40 group). Regardless of embryo stage, the NsDU-ET with 40 embryos presented similar rates of farrowing (72.7%) and litter size (9.9 ± 2.1 piglets) as the customary surgical procedure (75.0% and 9.6 ± 2.7 piglets). Numbers of ET-embryos appeared relevant, since the NsDU-ET with 30 embryos resulted in a decrease (P < 0.05) in farrowing rates (38.9%) and litter sizes (5.7 ± 2.4 piglets). In conclusion, we demonstrate for the first time that farrowing rate and litter size following a NsDU-ET procedure increase in function of a larger number of transferred vitrified embryos, with fertility equalizing that obtained with the invasive surgical approach. The results open new possibilities for the widespread use of non-invasive ET in pigs.
Randomizing bipartite networks: the case of the World Trade Web
Authors: Saracco Fabio , Di Clemente Riccardo , Gabrielli Andrea , Squartini Tiziano
Published: June 2015

Within the last fifteen years, network theory has been successfully applied both to natural sciences and to socioeconomic disciplines. In particular, bipartite networks have been recognized to provide a particularly insightful representation of many systems, ranging from mutualistic networks in ecology to trade networks in economy, whence the need of a pattern detection-oriented analysis in order to identify statistically-significant structural properties. Such an analysis rests upon the definition of suitable null models, i.e. upon the choice of the portion of network structure to be preserved while randomizing everything else. However, quite surprisingly, little work has been done so far to define null models for real bipartite networks. The aim of the present work is to fill this gap, extending a recently-proposed method to randomize monopartite networks to bipartite networks. While the proposed formalism is perfectly general, we apply our method to the binary, undirected, bipartite representation of the World Trade Web, comparing the observed values of a number of structural quantities of interest with the expected ones, calculated via our randomization procedure. Interestingly, the behavior of the World Trade Web in this new representation is strongly different from the monopartite analogue, showing highly non-trivial patterns of self-organization.
Bottom-up-then-up-down Route for Multi-level Construction of Hierarchical Bi2S3 Superstructures with Magnetism Alteration
Authors: Wei Chengzhen , Wang Lanfang , Dang Liyun , Chen Qun , Lu Qingyi , Gao Feng
Published: June 2015

A bottom-up-then-up-down route was proposed to construct multi-level Bi2S3 hierarchical architectures assembled by two-dimensional (2D) Bi2S3 sheet-like networks. BiOCOOH hollow spheres and flower-like structures, which are both assembled by 2D BiOCOOH nanosheets, were prepared first by a “bottom-up” route through a “quasi-emulsion” mechanism. Then the BiOCOOH hierarchical structures were transferred to hierarchical Bi2S3 architectures through an “up-down” route by an ion exchange method. The obtained Bi2S3 nanostructures remain hollow-spherical and flower-like structures of the precursors but the constructing blocks are changed to 2D sheet-like networks interweaving by Bi2S3 nanowires. The close matching of crystal lattices between Bi2S3 and BiOCOOH was believed to be the key reason for the topotactic transformation from BiOCOOH nanosheets to 2D Bi2S3 sheet-like nanowire networks. Magnetism studies reveal that unlike diamagnetism of comparative Bi2S3 nanostructures, the obtained multi-level Bi2S3 structures display S-type hysteresis and ferromagnetism at low field which might result from ordered structure of 2D networks.
Effects of CO2-induced pH reduction on the exoskeleton structure and biophotonic properties of the shrimp Lysmata californica
Authors: Taylor Jennifer R. A. , Gilleard Jasmine M. , Allen Michael C. , Deheyn Dimitri D.
Published: June 2015

The anticipated effects of CO2-induced ocean acidification on marine calcifiers are generally negative and include dissolution of calcified elements and reduced calcification rates. Such negative effects are not typical of crustaceans for which comparatively little ocean acidification research has been conducted. Crustaceans, however, depend on their calcified exoskeleton for many critical functions. Here, we conducted a short-term study on a common caridean shrimp, Lysmata californica, to determine the effect of CO2-driven reduction in seawater pH on exoskeleton growth, structure and mineralization and animal cryptic coloration. Shrimp exposed to ambient (7.99 ± 0.04) and reduced pH (7.53 ± 0.06) for 21 days showed no differences in exoskeleton growth (percent increase in carapace length), but the calcium weight percent of their cuticle increased significantly in reduced pH conditions, resulting in a greater Ca:Mg ratio. Cuticle thickness did not change, indicating an increase in the mineral to matrix ratio, which may have mechanical consequences for exoskeleton function. Furthermore, there was a 5-fold decrease in animal transparency, but no change in overall shrimp coloration (red). These results suggest that even short-term exposure to CO2-induced pH reduction can significantly affect exoskeleton mineralization and shrimp biophotonics, with potential impacts on crypsis, physical defense and predator avoidance.
Genome-Wide Mining, Characterization and Development of Microsatellite Markers in Gossypium Species
Authors: Wang Qiong , Fang Lei , Chen Jiedan , Hu Yan , Si Zhanfeng , Wang Sen , Chang Lijing , Guo Wangzhen , Zhang Tianzhen
Published: June 2015

Although much research has been conducted to characterize microsatellites and develop markers, the distribution of microsatellites remains ambiguous and the use of microsatellite markers in genomic studies and marker-assisted selection is limited. To identify microsatellites for cotton research, we mined 100,290, 83,160 and 56,937 microsatellites with frequencies of 41.2, 49.1 and 74.8 microsatellites per Mb in the recently sequencedGossypiumspecies:G. hirsutum,G. arboreum,andG. raimondii,respectively. The distributions of microsatellites in their genomes were non-random and were positively and negatively correlated with genes and transposable elements, respectively. Of the 77,996 developed microsatellite markers, 65,498 were physically anchored to the 26 chromosomes ofG. hirsutumwith an average marker density of 34 markers per Mb. We confirmed 67,880 (87%) universal and 7,705 (9.9%) new genic microsatellite markers. The polymorphism was estimated in above three species byin silicoPCR and validated with 505 markers inG. hirsutum. We further predicted 8,825 polymorphic microsatellite markers withinG. hirsutumacc. TM-1 andG. barbadensecv. Hai7124. In our study, genome-wide mining and characterization of microsatellites and marker development were very useful for the saturation of the allotetraploid genetic linkage map, genome evolution studies and comparative genome mapping.
Ultra-flexible nonvolatile memory based on donor-acceptor diketopyrrolopyrrole polymer blends
Authors: Zhou Ye , Han Su-Ting , Yan Yan , Zhou Li , Huang Long-Biao , Zhuang Jiaqing , Sonar Prashant , Roy V. A. L.
Published: June 2015

Flexible memory cell array based on high mobility donor-acceptor diketopyrrolopyrrole polymer has been demonstrated. The memory cell exhibits low read voltage, high cell-to-cell uniformity and good mechanical flexibility and has reliable retention and endurance memory performance. The electrical properties of the memory devices are systematically investigated and modeled. Our results suggest that the polymer blends provide an important step towards high-density flexible nonvolatile memory devices.
Log-normal diameter distribution of Pd-based metallic glass droplet and wire
Authors: Yaginuma S. , Nakajima C. , Kaneko N. , Yokoyama Y. , Nakayama K. S.
Published: June 2015

We have studied the formation of Pd42.5Cu30Ni7.5P20 metallic glass droplets and wires in the gas atomization process. We demonstrate that the sizes of droplets and wires can be distinguished by the Ohnesorge number (Oh), which is the proportion of the spinnability to the capillary instability and the diameter distributions follow a log-normal distribution function, implying cascade fragmentation. For droplets, the number significantly increases at Oh < 1 but the diameter gradually decreases. For wires, the number greatly increases at Oh > 1 while the diameter steadies below 400 nm. Further, the wire diameter is quadrupled at Oh = 16 due to the high viscosity which suppresses both capillary breakup and ligament elongation.
A new phase from compression of carbon nanotubes with anisotropic Dirac fermions
Authors: Dong Xiao , Hu Meng , He Julong , Tian Yongjun , Wang Hui-Tian
Published: June 2015

Searching for novel functional carbon materials is an enduring topic of scientific investigations, due to its diversity of bonds, including sp-, sp2- and sp3-hybridized bonds. Here we predict a new carbon allotrope, bct-C12 with the body-centered tetragonal I4/mcm symmetry, from the compression of carbon nanotubes. In particular, this structure behaviors as the Dirac fermions in the kz direction and the classic fermions in the kx and ky directions. This anisotropy originates from the interaction among zigzag chains, which is inherited from (n, n)-naotubes.
Preparation and Gas Sensing Properties of In2O3/Au Nanorods for Detection of Volatile Organic Compounds in Exhaled Breath
Authors: Xing Ruiqing , Xu Lin , Song Jian , Zhou Chunyang , Li Qingling , Liu Dali , Wei Song Hong
Published: June 2015

A series of In2O3/Au nanorods (NRs) were fabricated and characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), X–ray diffractometer (XRD) and X–ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The length to diameter ratios of In2O3/Au NRs was periodically modulated in the range of 2.9–4.5 through controlling the initial content of indium salt and reaction time. Their gas sensing properties to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were carefully studied and then applied in exhaled breath detection. The results demonstrate that In2O3/Au NRs gas sensor can effectively detect acetone at 250 °C and ethanol at 400 °C. The corresponding actual detection limit is as low as 0.1 ppm to acetone and 0.05 ppm to ethanol, respectively. Moreover, by using humidity compensation method, In2O3/Au NRs gas sensor can clearly distinguish the acetone and ethanol biomarkers in human breath. The main reason of the enhanced gas sensing properties was attributed to the “spillover effects” between Au and In2O3 NRs. The excellent sensing performance indicates that In2O3/Au NRs is a promising functional material to actual application in monitoring and detecting diabetes and safe driving area in a noninvasive and more accurate way.
3, 4-dihydroxyl-phenyl lactic acid restores NADH dehydrogenase 1 α subunit 10 to ameliorate cardiac reperfusion injury
Authors: Yang Xiao-Yuan , He Ke , Pan Chun-Shui , Li Quan , Liu Yu-Ying , Yan Li , Wei Xiao-Hong , Hu Bai-He , Chang Xin , Mao Xiao-Wei , Huang Dan-Dan , Wang Li-Jun , Hu Shui-Wang , Jiang Yong , Wang Guo-Cheng , Fan Jing-Yu , Fan Tai-Ping , Han Jing-Yan
Published: June 2015

The present study aimed to detect the role of 3, 4-dihydroxyl-phenyl lactic acid (DLA) during ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) induced myocardial injury with emphasis on the underlying mechanism of DLA antioxidant. Male Spragu-Dawley (SD) rats were subjected to left descending artery occlusion followed by reperfusion. Treatment with DLA ameliorated myocardial structure and function disorder, blunted the impairment of Complex I activity and mitochondrial function after I/R. The results of 2-D fluorescence difference gel electrophoresis revealed that DLA prevented the decrease in NDUFA10 expression, one of the subunits of Complex I. To find the target of DLA, the binding affinity of Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) to DLA and DLA derivatives with replaced two phenolic hydroxyls was detected using surface plasmon resonance and bilayer interferometry. The results showed that DLA could activate SIRT1 after I/R probably by binding to this protein, depending on phenolic hydroxyl. Moreover, the importance of SIRT1 to DLA effectiveness was confirmed through siRNA transfection in vitro. These results demonstrated that DLA was able to prevent I/R induced decrease in NDUFA10 expression, improve Complex I activity and mitochondrial function, eventually attenuate cardiac structure and function injury after I/R, which was possibly related to its ability of binding to and activating SIRT1.
Light scattering as an intrinsic indicator for pancreatic islet cell mass and secretion
Authors: Ilegems E. , van Krieken P. P. , Edlund P. K. , Dicker A. , Alanentalo T. , Eriksson M. , Mandic S. , Ahlgren U. , Berggren P.-O.
Published: June 2015

The pancreatic islet of Langerhans is composed of endocrine cells producing and releasing hormones from secretory granules in response to various stimuli for maintenance of blood glucose homeostasis. In order to adapt to a variation in functional demands, these islets are capable of modulating their hormone secretion by increasing the number of endocrine cells as well as the functional response of individual cells. A failure in adaptive mechanisms will lead to inadequate blood glucose regulation and thereby to the development of diabetes. It is therefore necessary to develop tools for the assessment of both pancreatic islet mass and function, with the aim of understanding cellular regulatory mechanisms and factors guiding islet plasticity. Although most of the existing techniques rely on the use of artificial indicators, we present an imaging methodology based on intrinsic optical properties originating from mature insulin secretory granules within endocrine cells that reveals both pancreatic islet mass and function. We demonstrate the advantage of using this imaging strategy by monitoring in vivo scattering signal from pancreatic islets engrafted into the anterior chamber of the mouse eye and how this versatile and noninvasive methodology permits the characterization of islet morphology and plasticity as well as hormone secretory status.
A new target region for changing the substrate specificity of amine transaminases
Authors: Guan Li-Jun , Ohtsuka Jun , Okai Masahiko , Miyakawa Takuya , Mase Tomoko , Zhi Yuehua , Hou Feng , Ito Noriyuki , Iwasaki Akira , Yasohara Yoshihiko , Tanokura Masaru
Published: June 2015

(R)-stereospecific amine transaminases (R-ATAs) are important biocatalysts for the production of (R)-amine compounds in a strict stereospecific manner. An improved R-ATA, ATA-117-Rd11, was successfully engineered for the manufacture of sitagliptin, a widely used therapeutic agent for type-2 diabetes. The effects of the individual mutations, however, have not yet been demonstrated due to the lack of experimentally determined structural information. Here we describe three crystal structures of the first isolated R-ATA, its G136F mutant and engineered ATA-117-Rd11, which indicated that the mutation introduced into the 136th residue altered the conformation of a loop next to the active site, resulting in a substrate-binding site with drastically modified volume, shape and surface properties, to accommodate the large pro-sitagliptin ketone. Our findings provide a detailed explanation of the previously reported molecular engineering of ATA-117-Rd11 and propose that the loop near the active site is a new target for the rational design to change the substrate specificity of ATAs.
Nanodiamond Finding in the Hyblean Shallow Mantle Xenoliths
Authors: Simakov S. K. , Kouchi A. , Mel’nik N.N. , Scribano V. , Kimura Y. , Hama T. , Suzuki N. , Saito H. , Yoshizawa T.
Published: June 2015

Most of Earth’s diamonds are connected with deep-seated mantle rocks; however, in recent years, μm-sized diamonds have been found in shallower metamorphic rocks and the process of shallow-seated diamond formation has become a hotly debated topic. Nanodiamonds occur mainly in chondrite meteorites associated with organic matter and water. They can be synthesized in the stability field of graphite from organic compounds under hydrothermal conditions. Similar physicochemical conditions occur in serpentinite-hosted hydrothermal systems. Herein, we report the first finding of nanodiamonds, primarily of 6 and 10 nm, in Hyblean asphaltene-bearing serpentinite xenoliths (Sicily, Italy). The discovery was made by electron microscopy observations coupled with Raman spectroscopy analyses. The finding reveals new aspects of carbon speciation and diamond formation in shallow crustal settings. Nanodiamonds can grow during the hydrothermal alteration of ultramafic rocks, as well as during the lithogenesis of sediments bearing organic matter.
Express penetration of hydrogen on Mg(10͞13) along the close-packed-planes
Authors: Ouyang Liuzhang , Tang Jiajun , Zhao Yujun , Wang Hui , Yao Xiangdong , Liu Jiangwen , Zou Jin , Zhu Min
Published: June 2015

Metal atoms often locate in energetically favorite close-packed planes, leading to a relatively high penetration barrier for other atoms. Naturally, the penetration would be much easier through non-close-packed planes, i.e. high-index planes. Hydrogen penetration from surface to the bulk (or reversely) across the packed planes is the key step for hydrogen diffusion, thus influences significantly hydrogen sorption behaviors. In this paper, we report a successful synthesis of Mg films in preferential orientations with both close- and non-close-packed planes, i.e. (0001) and a mix of (0001) and (10"Equation missing"3), by controlling the magnetron sputtering conditions. Experimental investigations confirmed a remarkable decrease in the hydrogen absorption temperature in the Mg (10"Equation missing"3), down to 392 K from 592 K of the Mg film (0001), determined by the pressure-composition-isothermal (PCI) measurement. The ab initio calculations reveal that non-close-packed Mg(10"Equation missing"3) slab is advantageous for hydrogen sorption, attributing to the tilted close-packed-planes in the Mg(10"Equation missing"3) slab.
Magnetism in Na-filled Fe-based skutterudites
Authors: Xing Guangzong , Fan Xiaofeng , Zheng Weitao , Ma Yanming , Shi Hongliang , Singh David J.
Published: June 2015

The interplay of superconductivity and magnetism is a subject of ongoing interest, stimulated most recently by the discovery of Fe-based superconductivity and the recognition that spin-fluctuations near a magnetic quantum critical point may provide an explanation for the superconductivity and the order parameter. Here we investigate magnetism in the Na filled Fe-based skutterudites using first principles calculations. NaFe4Sb12 is a known ferromagnet near a quantum critical point. We find a ferromagnetic metallic state for this compound driven by a Stoner type instability, consistent with prior work. In accord with prior work, the magnetization is overestimated, as expected for a material near an itinerant ferromagnetic quantum critical point. NaFe4P12 also shows a ferromagnetic instability at the density functional level, but this instability is much weaker than that of NaFe4Sb12, possibly placing it on the paramagnetic side of the quantum critical point. NaFe4As12 shows intermediate behavior. We also present results for skutterudite FeSb3, which is a metastable phase that has been reported in thin film form.
Collective ordering of microscale matters in natural analogy
Authors: Ahn Sungsook , Joon Lee Sang
Published: June 2015

Collective interaction occurs in many natural and artificial matters in broad scales. In a biological system, collective spatial organization of live individuals in a colony is important for their viability determination. Interactive motions between a single individual and an agglomerate are critical for whole procedure of the collective behaviors, but few has been clarified for these intermediate range behaviors. Here, collective interactions of microscale matters are investigated with human cells, plant seeds and artificial microspheres in terms of commonly occurring spatial arrangements. Human cancer cells are inherently attractive to form an agglomerate by cohesive motion, while plant chia seeds are repulsive by excreting mucilage. Microsphere model is employed to investigate the dynamic assembly equilibrated by an attraction and repulsion. There is a fundamental analogy in terms of an onset of regular pattern formation even without physical contact of individuals. The collective interactions are suggested to start before the individual components become physically agglomerated. This study contributes to fundamental understanding on the microscale particulate matters and natural pattern formation which are further useful for various applications both in academic and industrial areas.
Mechanical competence of ovariectomy-induced compromised bone after single or combined treatment with high-frequency loading and bisphosphonates
Authors: Camargos G. V. , Bhattacharya P. , van Lenthe G. H. , Del Bel Cury A. A. , Naert I. , Duyck J. , Vandamme K.
Published: June 2015

Osteoporosis leads to increased bone fragility, thus effective approaches enhancing bone strength are needed. Hence, this study investigated the effect of single or combined application of high-frequency (HF) loading through whole body vibration (WBV) and alendronate (ALN) on the mechanical competence of ovariectomy-induced osteoporotic bone. Thirty-four female Wistar rats were ovariectomized (OVX) or sham-operated (shOVX) and divided into five groups: shOVX, OVX-shWBV, OVX-WBV, ALN-shWBV and ALN-WBV. (Sham)WBV loading was applied for 10 min/day (130 to 150 Hz at 0.3g) for 14 days and ALN at 2 mg/kg/dose was administered 3x/week. Finite element analysis based on micro-CT was employed to assess bone biomechanical properties, relative to bone micro-structural parameters. HF loading application to OVX resulted in an enlarged cortex, but it was not able to improve the biomechanical properties. ALN prevented trabecular bone deterioration and increased bone stiffness and bone strength of OVX bone. Finally, the combination of ALN with HF resulted in an increased cortical thickness in OVX rats when compared to single treatments. Compared to HF loading, ALN treatment is preferred for improving the compromised mechanical competence of OVX bone. In addition, the association of ALN with HF loading results in an additive effect on the cortical thickness.
Zinc disrupts central carbon metabolism and capsule biosynthesis in Streptococcus pyogenes
Authors: Ong Cheryl-lynn Y. , Walker Mark J. , McEwan Alastair G.
Published: June 2015

Neutrophils release free zinc to eliminate the phagocytosed bacterial pathogen Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Streptococcus; GAS). In this study, we investigated the mechanisms underpinning zinc toxicity towards this human pathogen, responsible for diseases ranging from pharyngitis and impetigo, to severe invasive infections. Using the globally-disseminated M1T1 GAS strain, we demonstrate that zinc stress impairs glucose metabolism through the inhibition of the glycolytic enzymes phosphofructokinase and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase. In the presence of zinc, a metabolic shift to the tagatose-6-phosphate pathway allows conversion of D-galactose to dihydroxyacetone phosphate and glyceraldehyde phosphate, partially bypassing impaired glycolytic enzymes to generate pyruvate. Additionally, zinc inhibition of phosphoglucomutase results in decreased capsule biosynthesis. These data indicate that zinc exerts it toxicity via mechanisms that inhibit both GAS central carbon metabolism and virulence pathways.
Ultraviolet photoconductive devices with an n-GaN nanorod-graphene hybrid structure synthesized by metal-organic chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Kang San , Mandal Arjun , Chu Jae Hwan , Park Ji-Hyeon , Kwon Soon-Yong , Lee Cheul-Ro
Published: June 2015

The superior photoconductive behavior of a simple, cost-effective n-GaN nanorod (NR)-graphene hybrid device structure is demonstrated for the first time. The proposed hybrid structure was synthesized on a Si (111) substrate using the high-quality graphene transfer method and the relatively low-temperature metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) process with a high V/III ratio to protect the graphene layer from thermal damage during the growth of n-GaN nanorods. Defect-free n-GaN NRs were grown on a highly ordered graphene monolayer on Si without forming any metal-catalyst or droplet seeds. The prominent existence of the undamaged monolayer graphene even after the growth of highly dense n-GaN NRs, as determined using Raman spectroscopy and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), facilitated the excellent transport of the generated charge carriers through the photoconductive channel. The highly matched n-GaN NR-graphene hybrid structure exhibited enhancement in the photocurrent along with increased sensitivity and photoresponsivity, which were attributed to the extremely low carrier trap density in the photoconductive channel.
Hexagonal-structured ε-NbN: ultra-incompressibility, high shear rigidity and a possible hard superconducting material
Authors: Zou Yongtao , Wang Xuebing , Chen Ting , Li Xuefei , Qi Xintong , Welch David , Zhu Pinwen , Liu Bingbing , Cui Tian , Li Baosheng
Published: June 2015

Exploring the structural stability and elasticity of hexagonal ε-NbN helps discover correlations among its physical properties for scientific and technological applications. Here, for the first time, we measured the ultra-incompressibility and high shear rigidity of polycrystalline hexagonal ε-NbN using ultrasonic interferometry and in situ X-ray diffraction, complemented with first-principles density-functional theory calculations up to 30 GPa in pressure. Using a finite strain equation of state approach, the elastic bulk and shear moduli, as well as their pressure dependences are derived from the measured velocities and densities, yielding BS0 = 373.3(15) GPa, G0 = 200.5(8) GPa, ∂BS/∂P = 3.81(3) and ∂G/∂P = 1.67(1). The hexagonal ε-NbN possesses a very high bulk modulus, rivaling that of superhard material cBN (B0 = 381.1 GPa). The high shear rigidity is comparable to that for superhard γ-B (G0 = 227.2 GPa). We found that the crystal structure of transition-metal nitrides and the outmost electrons of the corresponding metals may dominate their pressure dependences in bulk and shear moduli. In addition, the elastic moduli, Vickers hardness, Debye temperature, melting temperature and a possible superconductivity of hexagonal ε-NbN all increase with pressures, suggesting its exceptional suitability for applications under extreme conditions.
Remote p-type Doping in GaSb/InAs Core-shell Nanowires
Authors: Ning Feng , Tang Li-Ming , Zhang Yong , Chen Ke-Qiu
Published: June 2015

By performing first-principles calculation, we investigated the electronic properties of remotely p-type doping GaSb nanowire by a Zn-doped InAs shell. The results show that for bare zinc-blende (ZB) [111] GaSb/InAs core-shell nanowire the Zn p-type doped InAs shell donates free holes to the non-doped GaSb core nanowire without activation energy, significantly increasing the hole density and mobility of nanowire. For Zn doping in bare ZB [110] GaSb/InAs core-shell nanowire the hole states are compensated by surface states. We also studied the behaviors of remote p-type doing in two-dimensional (2D) GaSb/InAs heterogeneous slabs and confirmed that the orientation of nanowire side facet is a key factor for achieving high efficient remote p-type doping.
Switched photocurrent direction in Au/TiO2 bilayer thin films
Authors: Chen Hongjun , Liu Gang , Wang Lianzhou
Published: June 2015

Switched photocurrent direction in photoelectrodes is a very interesting phenomenon and has demonstrated their potentials in important applications including photodiodes, phototransistors, light-driven sensors and biosensors. However, the design and mechanism understanding of such photoelectrodes remain challenging to date. Here we report a new phenomenon of sequence-driven the photocurrent direction on a simple bilayer structure of 5 nm thick Au and 10 nm TiO2 under visible-light irradiation. It is found that when Au layer are deposited as the outer layer on TiO2 coated fluorine doped tin oxide (FTO) substrate (designated as FTO/TiO2/Au), anodic photocurrent is obtained due to the band bending formed at the electrode-electrolyte interface. Interestingly, simply swapping the deposition sequence of Au and TiO2 leads to cathodic photocurrent on FTO/Au/TiO2 electrode. Characterization and calculations on the photoelectrode reveals that the photogenerated electrons can be easily trapped in the energy well formed between the band bending and the Schottky contact, which allows electronic tunnelling through the 1.6 nm thick space charge layer, resulting in a unique anodic to cathodic photocurrent conversion. The understanding of this new phenomenon can be important for designing new generation optoelectronic converting devices in a low-cost and facile manner.
The Serum Profile of Hypercytokinemia Factors Identified in H7N9-Infected Patients can Predict Fatal Outcomes
Authors: Guo Jing , Huang Fengming , Liu Jun , Chen Yu , Wang Wei , Cao Bin , Zou Zhen , Liu Song , Pan Jingcao , Bao Changjun , Zeng Mei , Xiao Haixia , Gao Hainv , Yang Shigui , Zhao Yan , Liu Qiang , Zhou Huandi , Zhu Jingdong , Liu Xiaoli , Liang Weifeng , Yang Yida , Zheng Shufa , Yang Jiezuan , Diao Hongyan , Su Kunkai , Shao Li , Cao Hongcui , Wu Ying , Zhao Min , Tan Shuguang , Li Hui , Xu Xiaoqing , Wang Chunmei , Zhang Jianmin , Wang Li , Wang Jianwei , Xu Jun , Li Dangsheng , Zhong Nanshan , Cao Xuetao , Gao George F. , Li Lanjuan , Jiang Chengyu
Published: June 2015

The novel avian origin influenza A (H7N9) virus has caused severe diseases in humans in eastern China since the spring of 2013. Fatal outcomes of H7N9 infections are often attributed to the severe pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). There is urgent need to discover biomarkers predicting the progression of disease and fatal outcome of potentially lethal flu infections, based on sound statistical analysis. We discovered that 34 of the 48 cytokines and chemokines examined in this study were significantly elevated in the plasma samples from patients infected with H7N9. We report for the first time that the levels of MIF, SCF, MCP-1, HGF and SCGF-β are highly positively linked to disease severity and the profile of mediators MIF, SCF, MCP-1, HGF, SCGF-β, IP-10, IL-18 and IFN-γ is an independent outcome predictor.
A Great Challenge of Green Chemistry Education: The Interface between Provision of Information and Behaviour Patterns
Authors: Mammino Liliana
Published: June 2015

The chapter considers concrete examples both within formal and within informal education. The examples for formal education refer to efforts to integrate both industrial and everyday life green chemistry perspectives within chemical education, and are analysed in some detail. They comprise the integration of green chemistry perspectives into a process technology course at the University of Venda (South Africa), and the presentation of the interface between chemistry and ethics to secondary school pupils in Italy. The examples for which informal education needs to play extensive roles focus mostly on aspects for which the outreach to the public appears so far inadequate, and make extensive references to observations that one can make in one's surroundings. These examples suggest the importance of fostering chemical literacy and integrating green chemistry perspectives into information to the public. Some possible chemistry-oriented outreach options are outlined.
Education for Sustainable Development and Chemistry Education
Authors: Rauch Franz
Published: June 2015

The years between 2005 and 2014 were declared by the United Nations as worldwide Decade of Education for Sustainable Development (DESD). The intended purpose of DESD is to promote and more thoroughly focus education as a crucial tool, preparing young people to be responsible future citizens, so that our future generations can shape society in a sustainable manner. All educational levels and domains are to be involved in contributing to Education for Sustainable Development (ESD), including chemistry. This paper explores the meaning of sustainable development, education for sustainable development and what ESD pedagogy will mean for chemistry education. It provides an overview of different models suggesting how such integration of sustainability issues can be compatible with chemistry education. Some consequences and implications arising from this approach will also be discussed.
Green Chemistry Education in Brazil: Contemporary Tendencies and Reflections at Secondary School Level
Authors: Zuin Vânia Gomes , Marques Carlos Alberto
Published: June 2015

In this chapter, the results of Brazilian scientific research (theses, journals and congress papers) concerning the status quo of green chemistry education will be presented. The main objective is to analyse ideas and practices related to green chemistry at all levels and modalities of education, especially at secondary schools in Brazil.
On the Development of Non-formal Learning Environments for Secondary School Students Focusing on Sustainability and Green Chemistry
Authors: Garner Nicole , Huwer Johannes , Siol Antje , Hempelmann Rolf , Eilks Ingo
Published: June 2015

This chapter describes a project of innovating chemistry education by the creation of non-formal learning environments in university laboratories open to secondary school science and chemistry classes. Issues of sustainable development and green chemistry were chosen as a driver to create the learning environments. Connecting the learning about sustainable development and green chemistry with innovations in the non-formal educational arena proofed to be a positive enrichment in the teaching and learning of chemistry in the eyes of both the students and the teachers. The project shows the potential of non-formal laboratories in universities, if thoroughly connected to formal learning in schools, for improving the chemistry curriculum and its related pedagogy, as well as for teacher continuous professional development.
Holistic Green Chemistry Metrics for Use in Teaching Laboratories
Authors: Machado Adélio A. S. C.
Published: June 2015

A review of the work that has been developed in Oporto on holistic metrics for evaluation of greenness in green chemistry is presented. As an introduction, a discussion on the complex nature of chemistry, greenness and its evaluation is used to show: the systemic nature of the metrification problem; why reductionist one-dimensional metrics have to be used in batteries; and the advantage of adopting holistic metrics conceived under systems thinking. Then the following items are presented: first, conception and construction of simple graphic metrics based in the Twelve Principles of Green Chemistry for holistic assessment of the greenness: green star, green circle and green matrix; second, the use of the metrics for green chemistry teaching, especially of the green star, for greenness optimization of the synthesis used in organic and inorganic teaching laboratories and for evaluation of laboratory course contents in Portuguese secondary schools; finally, a discussion of the advantages and limitations of holistic metrics based on the Twelve Principles.
Embedding Toxicology into the Chemistry Curriculum
Authors: Anastas Nicholas D.
Published: June 2015

Incorporating the principles of toxicology into the chemistry curriculum prepares the next generation of chemists to evaluate the hazards associated with the substances they use as part of their craft and provides the requisite tools to design safer, healthier and sustainable products. Successful implementation of this integrative thinking will require a paradigm shift in the traditional chemistry curriculum requiring a commitment by educators to reach beyond their comfort zone and embrace innovative, integrative approaches to embedding examples the reveal the structure–hazard relationship. Several specific examples are provided intended to illustrate how convergent molecular science can be accomplished in a practical manner providing chemistry educators with a flexible pedagogical framework.
Green Chemistry and Sustainable Industrial Technology – Over 10 Years of an MSc Programme
Authors: Clark James , Jones Leonie , Summerton Louise
Published: June 2015

The Master's course in Green Chemistry and Sustainable Industrial Technology at York, UK, started in 2001. It was supported by a large grant from the UK research councils and generous support from two very large companies. Over its 10+ years of history the course has evolved to become self-sufficient and to provide students with a wide range of skills for a large variety of careers. The student intake has also changed and become very international. The way that the course has changed and how it is adapting to new technical and socio-economic challenges will be discussed.
Education in Green Chemistry: Incorporating Green Chemistry into Chemistry Teaching Methods Courses at the Universiti Sains Malaysia
Authors: Karpudewan Mageswary , Roth Wolff-Michael , Ismail Zurida
Published: June 2015

Green chemistry aims at preventing pollution and sustaining the earth; it is commonly practised in the production of industrial applications. While predominantly being applied in industrial applications it can be also adapted in education through laboratory-based experiments and classroom activities. It is also imperative to educate the future teachers (pre-service teachers) on green chemistry because these teachers have the power to access many generations of students near future. As a response to the UN declaration of a Decade of Education for Sustainable Development (UNDESD), at the School of Educational Studies, Universiti Sains Malaysia, green chemistry has been integrated into chemistry teaching methods and courses. In this chapter we first provide an argument why learning chemistry becomes relevant and we discuss (1) how green chemistry can be adapted in chemistry teaching methods course, (2) the feasibility of integrating green chemistry experiments, and (3) the effectiveness of green chemistry in enhancing environmental awareness and concern as well as bringing attitudinal, motivation and value change in solving environmental issues.
Educational Efforts in Green and Sustainable Chemistry from the Spanish Network in Sustainable Chemistry
Authors: Luis Santiago V. , Altava Belén , Burguete M. Isabel , García-Verdugo Eduardo
Published: June 2015

Developing educational activities in the area of green and sustainable chemistry has been one of the main goals of the Spanish Network on Sustainable Chemistry (REDQS). Numerous educational activities have been carried out by the members of the REDQS in the last years, at different levels, either individually or collectively. In this regard, the integration of efforts towards designing a common interuniversity educational program at the postgraduate level in Spain has been one of the main objectives of the REDQS for more than one decade. The corresponding Master's and PhD programs in sustainable chemistry are currently implemented in several Spanish universities based on a common curriculum and a cooperative effort of the institutions and the researchers and teachers involved. This has provided a unique opportunity for many students, from different origins, to acquire a solid training in green chemistry and to achieve a distinctive educational experience. The essential components of this initiative as well as its funding key concepts are presented in this chapter. The essential elements for success are the generation of a flexible and adaptive curriculum in a changing legislative contest, a modular design of the teaching programme and a solid definition of the basic, common, contents, along with the cooperative efforts of the members of the REDQS.
Accessible glyco-tripod amphiphiles for membrane protein analysis
Authors: Das Manabendra , Bae Hyoung Eun , Lee Ho Jin , Go Juyeon , Chae Pil Seok
Published: June 2015

A new TPA (TPA-18) with high accessibility showed enhanced membrane protein stabilization, thereby being useful in membrane protein analysis.
Highly-reproducible Raman scattering of NaYF4:Yb,Er@SiO2@Ag for methylamphetamine detection under near-infrared laser excitation
Authors: Ma Yongmei , Liu Honglin , Han Zhenzhen , Yang Liangbao , Liu Jinhuai
Published: June 2015

NaYF4:Yb,Er@SiO2@Ag displays highly-reproducible Raman enhancement ability for methylamphetamine detection under near-infrared excitation.
Characterising cytotoxic agent action as a function of the cell cycle using fourier transform infrared microspectroscopy
Authors: Jimenez-Hernandez M. , Brown M. D. , Hughes C. , Clarke N. W. , Gardner P.
Published: June 2015

Infrared spectral signatures of drug–cell interaction, suggest that both the stages of proliferation and the degree of apoptosis need to be taken into account to elucidate the fine biochemical details of the immediate cellular response to the drug.
Modeling vapor uptake induced mobility shifts in peptide ions observed with transversal modulation ion mobility spectrometry-mass spectrometry
Authors: Rawat Vivek K. , Vidal-de-Miguel Guillermo , Hogan Christopher J.
Published: June 2015

Adsorption models are used to explain vapor dopant facilitated mobility shifts for peptide ions.
Platinum nanoparticles/graphene-oxide hybrid with excellent peroxidase-like activity and its application for cysteine detection
Authors: Lin Xiao-Qing , Deng Hao-Hua , Wu Gang-Wei , Peng Hua-Ping , Liu Ai-Lin , Lin Xin-Hua , Xia Xing-Hua , Chen Wei
Published: June 2015

A facile approach for the synthesis of PtNPs/GO with excellent peroxidase-like activity was demonstrated. Based on the target-induced shielding against the peroxidase-like activity, a colorimetric method for l-cysteine detection was developed.
A smartphone-readable barcode assay for the detection and quantitation of pesticide residues
Authors: Guo Juan , Wong Jessica X. H. , Cui Caie , Li Xiaochun , Yu Hua-Zhong
Published: June 2015

A qualitative assay for pesticide (methyl parathion) residues has been designed as a smartphone-readable barcode.
Novel sample preparation technique based on functional nanofiber mat for sensitive and precise determination of phenolic environmental estrogens in environmental water
Authors: Li X. Q. , Qi F. F. , Zhou F. Q. , Yang B. Y. , Gao H. T. , Rong F. , Xu Q.
Published: June 2015

A disk SPE method based on a HM-PAN nanofiber mat was established. Noticeably reduced sorbent mass and eluant volume were needed. Better analytical performance was shown compared with existing methods.
Determination of ethylene glycol in lubricants by derivatization static headspace gas chromatography
Authors: Gras Kaelyn , Luong Jim , Lin Monica , Gras Ronda , Shellie Robert A.
Published: June 2015

A practical and reliable method for the analysis of ethylene glycol in either hydrocarbon based or synthetic lubricants has been successfully developed and implemented.
Sensitive and fluorescence “turn-on” detection of BRCA1 and TB4 DNA sequences using water-soluble conjugated polythiophenes
Authors: Ma Yun , Xia Yong , Yan Liqiang , Wang Fang , Miao Zhihui , Cui Meifang , Yao Hongtao , Qi Zhengjian
Published: June 2015

A biocompatible, label-free and sensitive fluorescence “turn-on” approach was designed to detectBRCA1andTB4DNA sequences using poly(3-[(S)-5-amino-5-carboxyl-3-oxapentyl]-2,5-thiophenylene hydrochloride) (POWT).
Enantio- and diastereoselective asymmetric allylic alkylation catalyzed by a planar-chiral cyclopentadienyl ruthenium complex
Authors: Kanbayashi Naoya , Hosoda Kazuki , Kato Masanori , Takii Koichiro , Okamura Taka-aki , Onitsuka Kiyotaka
Published: June 2015

We report asymmetric allylic alkylation of allylic chloride with β-diketones as the prochiral carbon nucleophiles using a planar-chiral Cp′Ru catalyst.
An azobenzene-based photochromic liquid crystalline amphiphile for a remote-controllable light shutter
Authors: Kim Dae-Yoon , Lee Sang-A , Kim Huisu , Min Kim Soo , Kim Namil , Jeong Kwang-Un
Published: June 2015

By considering intramolecular conformations and intermolecular interactions, a photochromic liquid crystalline amphiphile is synthesized for a remote-controllable light shutter.
A γ-ray and dual redox-responsive supramolecular polymer constructed by a selenium containing pillar[5]arene dimer and a neutral guest
Authors: Zhou Yujuan , Jie Kecheng , Shi Bingbing , Yao Yong
Published: June 2015

A novel linear supramolecular polymer was fabricated by self-assembly of a selenium containing pillar[5]arene dimer 1 and a neutral guest 2. This supramolecular polymer can be destroyed by irradiating γ-radiation, or adding H2O2 or GSH.
Stereoselective formation of coordination polymers with 1,4-diaminonaphthalene on various Cu substrates
Authors: Knor Marek , Gao Hong-Ying , Amirjalayer Saeed , Studer Armido , Gao Hongjun , Du Shixuan , Fuchs Harald
Published: June 2015

Controlled polymerization of 1,4-diaminonaphthalene on various Cu crystallographic planes (111), (110) and (100) resulting in stereoselectively well-defined metal–organic coordination polymers.
Deoxygenative coupling of nitroarenes for the synthesis of aromatic azo compounds with CO using supported gold catalysts
Authors: Li Hai-Qian , Liu Xiang , Zhang Qi , Li Shu-Shuang , Liu Yong-Mei , He He-Yong , Cao Yong
Published: June 2015

A simple ligand- and additive-free gold catalyst system that enables the CO-mediated reductive coupling of nitroarenes has been identified.
Reversible switching of amphiphilic self-assemblies between micelles and microemulsions by a thermal stimulus
Authors: Dong Bin , Xing Xueqing , Wang Rui , Wang Bing , Zhou Xiaoyan , Wang Chang , Yu Li , Wu Zhonghua , Gao Yanan
Published: June 2015

The reversible transformation between micelles and microemulsions consisting of a low critical solution temperature (LCST)-type ionic liquid was realized by a thermal stimulus for the first time.