bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Convergence of microbial assimilations of soil carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus and sulfur in terrestrial ecosystems
Authors: Xu Xiaofeng , Hui Dafeng , King Anthony W. , Song Xia , Thornton Peter E. , Zhang Lihua
Published: November 2015

How soil microbes assimilate carbon-C, nitrogen-N, phosphorus-P and sulfur-S is fundamental for understanding nutrient cycling in terrestrial ecosystems. We compiled a global database of C, N, P and S concentrations in soils and microbes and developed relationships between them by using a power function model. The C:N:P:S was estimated to be 287:17:1:0.8 for soils and 42:6:1:0.4 for microbes. We found a convergence of the relationships between elements in soils and in soil microbial biomass across C, N, P and S. The element concentrations in soil microbial biomass follow a homeostatic regulation curve with soil element concentrations across C, N, P and S, implying a unifying mechanism of microbial assimilating soil elements. This correlation explains the well-constrained C:N:P:S stoichiometry with a slightly larger variation in soils than in microbial biomass. Meanwhile, it is estimated that the minimum requirements of soil elements for soil microbes are 0.8 mmol C Kg−1 dry soil, 0.1 mmol N Kg−1 dry soil, 0.1 mmol P Kg−1 dry soil and 0.1 mmol S Kg−1 dry soil, respectively. These findings provide a mathematical explanation of element imbalance in soils and soil microbial biomass and offer insights for incorporating microbial contribution to nutrient cycling into Earth system models.
A new chiral boron cluster B44containing nonagonal holes
Authors: Tai Truong Ba , Nguyen Minh Tho
Published: November 2015

The B44cluster exhibits an aromatic and chiral cage-like structure containing remarkable nonagonal holes.
Synthesis of ZnWO4/CdWO4 core–shell structured nanorods formed by an oriented attachment mechanism with enhanced photocatalytic performances
Authors: Li Di , Xue Juanqin , Bai Xiaojuan
Published: November 2015

We have described the oriented attachment mechanism in which CdWO4 nanorods obviously act as an epitaxial ‘substrate’ and guide the ZnWO4 aggregation process for the formation of CdWO4 nanorod based aggregated structures.
Prediction of two planar carbon allotropes with large meshes
Authors: Ma ShuangYing , Sun L. Z. , Zhang K. W.
Published: November 2015

Two novel two-dimensional (2D) carbon allotropes named Cy and Cz with large meshes are predicted based on first-principles calculations.
Reactive symbol sequences for a model of hydrogen combustion
Authors: Alaghemandi Mohammad , Green Jason R.
Published: November 2015

A chemically-informed symbolic dynamics is used as a coarse-grained representation of classical molecular dynamics with a reactive force field, and applied to the sequences of chemical species for a model of hydrogen combustion.
Nucleotides containing variously modified sugars: energetics, structure, and mechanical properties
Authors: Yurenko Yevgen P. , Novotný Jan , Nikolaienko Tymofii Yu. , Marek Radek
Published: November 2015

Conformational flexibility and energetic stability of nucleotides are tightly interconnected; more energetically stable conformers are characterized by higher values of relaxed force constants (RFC) for theδtorsion angle.
Interfacial electronic structure and charge transfer of hybrid graphene quantum dot and graphitic carbon nitride nanocomposites: insights into high efficiency for photocatalytic solar water splitting
Authors: Ma Zuju , Sa Rongjian , Li Qiaohong , Wu Kechen
Published: November 2015

The interfacial electronic structure and electron transfer of graphene quantum dot–graphitic carbon nitride composites are characterized by using hybrid functional calculations and include long-range dispersion corrections.
Molecular origin of high free energy barriers for alkali metal ion transfer through ionic liquid–graphene electrode interfaces
Authors: Ivaništšev Vladislav , Méndez-Morales Trinidad , Lynden-Bell Ruth M. , Cabeza Oscar , Gallego Luis J. , Varela Luis M. , Fedorov Maxim V.
Published: November 2015

We study mechanisms of solvent-mediated ion interactions with charged surfaces in ionic liquids by molecular dynamics simulations, in an attempt to reveal the main trends that determine ion–electrode interactions in ionic liquids.
Synergistic formation of sulfate and ammonium resulting from reaction between SO2and NH3on typical mineral dust
Authors: Yang Weiwei , He Hong , Ma Qingxin , Ma Jinzhu , Liu Yongchun , Liu Pengfei , Mu Yujing
Published: November 2015

A synergistic effect between SO2and NH3on typical mineral dust.
Understanding the interfacial behavior in isopycnic Lennard-Jones mixtures by computer simulations
Authors: Garrido José Matías , Piñeiro Manuel M. , Mejía Andrés , Blas Felipe J.
Published: November 2015

Singular structures of total density profiles under molar isopycnicity conditions.
Hydrodeoxygenation of karanja oil over supported nickel catalysts: influence of support and nickel loading
Authors: Yenumala Sudhakara Reddy , Maity Sunil K. , Shee Debaprasad
Published: November 2015

Conversion of oxygenates increased in the order 25NiSi < 25NiAl ≤ 25NiZSM. The HDO route was dominant over (≥20 wt%) Ni/γ-Al2O3. The optimal conditions for the HDO route were 653 K and 25NiAl at 35 bar H2. The properties of green diesel were comparable with light diesel oil.
Enhancement of laser-induced Fe plasma spectroscopy with dual-wavelength femtosecond double-pulse
Authors: Wang Ying , Chen Anmin , Li Shuchang , Sui Laizhi , Liu Dunli , Tian Dan , Jiang Yuanfei , Jin Mingxing
Published: November 2015

Enhancement of laser-induced Fe plasma spectroscopy with dual-wavelength is investigated by using femtosecond double-pulse laser.
Discovery of AZD8165 – a clinical candidate from a novel series of neutral thrombin inhibitors
Authors: Abrahamsson K. , Andersson P. , Bergman J. , Bredberg U. , Brånalt J. , Egnell A.-C. , Eriksson U. , Gustafsson D. , Hoffman K.-J. , Nielsen S. , Nilsson I. , Pehrsson S. , Polla M. O. , Skjaeret T. , Strimfors M. , Wern C. , Ölwegård-Halvarsson M. , Örtengren Y.
Published: November 2015

A novel series of neutral thrombin inhibitors has been developed using a selection process based on docking experiments and property calculations and predictions.
Ru(ii)-polypyridyl surface functionalised gold nanoparticles as DNA targeting supramolecular structures and luminescent cellular imaging agents
Authors: Martínez-Calvo Miguel , Orange Kim N. , Elmes Robert B. P. , la Cour Poulsen Bjørn , Williams D. Clive , Gunnlaugsson Thorfinnur
Published: November 2015

The development of 15 nm (average size) Ru(ii) functionalized gold nanoparticles 1–3·AuNP is described.
A high quality liquid-type quantum dot white light-emitting diode
Authors: Sher Chin-Wei , Lin Chin-Hao , Lin Huang-Yu , Lin Chien-Chung , Huang Che-Hsuan , Chen Kuo-Ju , Li Jie-Ru , Wang Kuan-Yu , Tu Hsien-Hao , Fu Chien-Chung , Kuo Hao-Chung
Published: November 2015

In this study, a liquid-type QD white LED is demonstrated as an efficient color-conversion layer in UV LED packages.
Carbon-atom wires: 1-D systems with tunable properties
Authors: Casari C. S. , Tommasini M. , Tykwinski R. R. , Milani A.
Published: November 2015

Carbon-atom wires represent true 1-D carbon structures whose properties are widely tunable by controlling the length and type of termination.
Fabrication of a biofuel cell improved by the π-conjugated electron pathway effect induced from a new enzyme catalyst employing terephthalaldehyde
Authors: Chung Yongjin , Hyun Kyu Hwan , Kwon Yongchai
Published: November 2015

A model explaining π-conjugated electron pathway effect induced by enzyme catalyst adopting terephthalaldehyde is suggested with application as enzymatic biofuel cell.
Docking study and biological evaluation of pyrrolidine-based iminosugars as pharmacological chaperones for Gaucher disease
Authors: Kato Atsushi , Nakagome Izumi , Sato Kasumi , Yamamoto Arisa , Adachi Isao , Nash Robert J. , Fleet George W. J. , Natori Yoshihiro , Watanabe Yasuka , Imahori Tatsushi , Yoshimura Yuichi , Takahata Hiroki , Hirono Shuichi
Published: November 2015

α-1-C-Alkylated 1,4-dideoxy-1,4-imino-d-arabinitols (DAB) derivatives as pharmacological chaperones for Gaucher disease.
Diazaoxatriangulenium: synthesis of reactive derivatives and conjugation to bovine serum albumin
Authors: Bora Ilkay , Bogh Sidsel A. , Rosenberg Martin , Santella Marco , Sørensen Thomas Just , Laursen Bo W.
Published: November 2015

The red emitting, long fluorescence lifetime diazaoxatriangulenium dye DAOTA has been prepared with reactive NHS-ester and maleimide linkers for bioconjugation.
Addition of water to an alcoholic RAFT PISA formulation leads to faster kinetics but limits the evolution of copolymer morphology
Authors: Jones E. R. , Semsarilar M. , Wyman P. , Boerakker M. , Armes S. P.
Published: November 2015

Addition of water leads to a much faster rate for the RAFT dispersion polymerization of benzyl methacrylate in ethanol, enabling degrees of polymerization of up to 1500 to be achieved.
Controlled thermal nitridation resulting in improved structural and photoelectrochemical properties from Ta3N5 nanotubular photoanodes
Authors: Khan Sherdil , Teixeira Sérgio Ribeiro , Santos Marcos Jose Leite
Published: November 2015

Ta3N5 nanotubular photoanodes were synthesized by thermal nitridation of anodized Ta2O5 nanotubes (NTs) in a temperature range from 650 °C to 1000 °C.
Effect of phenol on the synthesis of benzoxazine
Authors: Zhang Qin , Yang Po , Deng Yuyuan , Zhang Chengxi , Zhu Rongqi , Gu Yi
Published: November 2015

The kinetic parameters of benzoxazine synthesis approximately equaled those of phenol consumption revealing that phenol was the key starting material.
The facile synthesis, characterization and evaluation of photocatalytic activity of bimetallic FeBiO3 in natural sunlight exposure
Authors: Aslam M. , Soomro M. Tahir , Ismail Iqbal M. I. , Qari Huda A. , Gondal M. A. , Hameed A.
Published: November 2015

In an effort to develop sunlight active photocatalysts for environmental remediation, a phase pure bimetallic oxide, FeBiO3, was synthesized by a facile route.
Solvent assisted and solvent free orientation of growth of nanoscaled lanthanide sulfides: tuning of morphology and manifestation of photocatalytic behavior
Authors: Ghosh Abhisek Brata , Saha Namrata , Sarkar Arpita , Srivastava Divesh N. , Paul Parimal , Adhikary Bibhutosh
Published: November 2015

We observed solvent-mediated and solvent-free growth of lanthanide sulfides where EuS emerged as a promising candidate for visible-light induced photocatalysis towards the degradation of toxic organic dyes.
Ultrafast UV response detectors based on multi-channel ZnO nanowire networks
Authors: He PeiPei , Feng Shuanglong , Liu Shuangyi , Li Qikun , Qi Jiwei , Zhan Zhaoyao , Li Xin , Li Zhenhu , Shen Jun , Lu Wenqiang
Published: November 2015

An UV detector based on multi-channel three dimensional ZnO nanowire networks was fabricated via a catalyst-free CVD method.
Ordered mesoporous carbons-supported gold nanoparticles as highly efficient electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Wang Likai , Tang Zhenghua , Liu Xiaojun , Niu Wenhan , Zhou Kai , Yang Hongyu , Zhou Weijia , Li Ligui , Chen Shaowei
Published: November 2015

Mesoporous carbons-supported gold nanoparticles exhibit apparent electrocatalytic activity towards oxygen reduction reaction, due to their intimate interactions that facilitate fast electron transfer and rapid mass transport.
A type of sodium-ion full-cell with a layered NaNi0.5Ti0.5O2 cathode and a pre-sodiated hard carbon anode
Authors: Wang Hongbo , Xiao Yazhou , Sun Chuang , Lai Chao , Ai Xinping
Published: November 2015

A new type of a sodium-ion full battery, consisting of a NaNi0.5Ti0.5O2 cathode and a pre-sodiated hard carbon anode, exhibiting higher capacity and coulombic efficiency is reported.
Growth of TiO2 nanorod bundles on carbon fibers as flexible and weaveable photocatalyst/photoelectrode
Authors: Gu Xiaodong , Yu Nuo , Zhang Lisha , Yang Jianmao , Hu Junqing , Chen Zhigang
Published: November 2015

TiO2 nanorod bundles were grew on carbon fibers (CFs), and the resulting CFs/TiO2 cloth can degrade 94.0% Rhodamine B in 100 min by photoelectrocatalytic (PEC) process, which is higher than the efficiency from photocatalytic (PC, 60.8%) or electrocatalytic (EC, 5.6%) route.
Fabrication of superhydrophobic surface with discarded silicone under arc exposure
Authors: Huang Zhengyong , Li Jian , Wang Feipeng , Yan Xinzhu , Wei Yuan
Published: November 2015

Super-hydrophobic surfaces can be fabricated based on discarded silicone after arc exposure. Hydrophobicity, microstructural development, chemical composition, corrosive liquid resistance, and the microscopic process of contaminant elimination of the surface are presented.
Diamagnetic repulsion of particles for multilaminar flow assays
Authors: Tarn Mark D. , Elders Luke T. , Peyman Sally A. , Pamme Nicole
Published: November 2015

A continuous multilaminar flow reaction was performed on functionalised polymer particlesviadiamagnetic repulsion forces, using a simple, inexpensive setup.
Highly diastereoselective synthesis of imidazolidine-dispirooxindoles via three-component [3 + 2] cycloadditions of isatins, 2-(aminomethyl)pyridine and isatin-based imines
Authors: Zhao Hong-Wu , Chen Xiao-Qin , Yang Zhao , Tian Ting , Li Bo , Meng Wei , Song Xiu-Qing , Pang Hai-Liang
Published: November 2015

In the presence of Et3N, the [3 + 2] cycloaddition of isatins, 2-(aminomethyl)pyridine and isatin-based imines proceeded readily, and furnished novel imidazolidine-dispirooxindoles in up to 84% yield with up to >99 : 1 diastereoselectivity.
Exploring bridging effect on first hyperpolarizability
Authors: Roy Ria Sinha , Nandi Prasanta K.
Published: November 2015

Modulation of first hyperpolarizability on varying structure of the bridge.
Improvement of the thermoelectric performance of InSe-based alloys doped with Sn
Authors: Hou Xiaojing , Chen Shaoping , Du Zhengliang , Liu Xianglian , Cui Jiaolin
Published: November 2015

Sn preferentially occupies In sites, which creates a defect SnIn+ and intermediate band, thus tailoring the thermoelectric performance of InSe.
Effect of carbon content and electronic strong correlation on the mechanical and thermodynamic properties of ytterbium carbides
Authors: Dong Wei , Zhang Chao , Jiang Hong , Su Yue-Hua , Dai Zhen-Hong
Published: November 2015

The mechanical and thermodynamic properties of four ytterbium carbides with increasing carbon content have been examined usingab initiocalculations based on density functional theory.
Development of a visible nanothermometer with a highly emissive 2′-O-methylated guanosine analogue
Authors: Yamamoto Seigi , Park Soyoung , Sugiyama Hiroshi
Published: November 2015

We have synthesized a fluorescent base analogue, 2-aminothieno[3,4-d]pyrimidine based G-mimic deoxyribonucleoside, 2′-OMe-thG, and investigated its photophysical properties and DNA incorporation.
Correction: Scaffolds drive meniscus tissue engineering
Authors: Zhang Zheng-Zheng , Jiang Dong , Wang Shao-Jie , Qi Yan-Song , Ding Jian-Xun , Yu Jia-Kuo , Chen Xue-Si
Published: November 2015

Correction for ‘Scaffolds drive meniscus tissue engineering’ by Zheng-Zheng Zhang et al., RSC Adv., 2015, 5, 77851–77859.
Self-assembly of 2D MnO2nanosheets into high-purity aerogels with ultralow density
Authors: Liu Zhenning , Xu Kongliang , She Ping , Yin Shengyan , Zhu Xuedong , Sun Hang
Published: November 2015

Organic-free MnO2aerogels with ultralow density have been achieved by self-assembly of two dimensional MnO2nanosheetsviaan ice-templating approach.
Water-enhanced oxidation of graphite to graphene oxide with controlled species of oxygenated groups
Authors: Chen Ji , Zhang Yao , Zhang Miao , Yao Bowen , Li Yingru , Huang Liang , Li Chun , Shi Gaoquan
Published: November 2015

Water-enhanced oxidation of graphite via a modified Hummers method can produce graphene oxide with controlled species of oxygenated groups.
Spatial separation of oxidation and reduction co-catalysts for efficient charge separation: Pt@TiO2@MnOx hollow spheres for photocatalytic reactions
Authors: Li Ang , Wang Tuo , Chang Xiaoxia , Cai Weiting , Zhang Peng , Zhang Jijie , Gong Jinlong
Published: November 2015

The design and synthesis of fine Pt@TiO2@MnOx hollow spheres is described. Pt and MnOx are spatially separated by TiO2 shells. The catalyst exhibits high efficiency of charge-separation and surface-reaction.
A core-level spectroscopic investigation of the preparation and electrochemical cycling of nitrogen-modified carbon as a model catalyst support
Authors: Christensen Steven T. , Nordlund Dennis , Olson Timothy , Hurst Katherine E. , Dameron Arrelaine A. , O'Neill Kevin J. , Bult Justin B. , Dinh Huyen N. , Gennett Thomas
Published: November 2015

X-ray absorption spectroscopy shows the dramatic changes a nitrogen modified carbon support can undergo due to electrochemical processes.
Predicting electrochemical properties and ionic diffusion in Na2+2xMn2−x(SO4)3: crafting a promising high voltage cathode material
Authors: Araujo Rafael B. , Islam M. S. , Chakraborty Sudip , Ahuja R.
Published: November 2015

Sodium ion batteries have emerged as a good alternative to lithium based systems due to their low cost of production.
Nitrogen-doped carbons prepared from eutectic mixtures as metal-free oxygen reduction catalysts
Authors: López-Salas Nieves , Gutiérrez María C. , Ania Conchi O. , Muñoz-Márquez Miguel A. , Luisa Ferrer M. , Monte Francisco del
Published: November 2015

Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) composed of resorcinol, either 2-cyanophenol or 4-cyanophenol, and choline chloride were used for the synthesis of hierarchical nitrogen-doped carbon molecular sieves.
Highly efficient solid-state mesoscopic PbS with embedded CuS quantum dot-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Park Joong Pill , Heo Jin Hyuck , Im Sang Hyuk , Kim Sang-Wook
Published: November 2015

We synthesized a new type of PbS colloidal quantum dot (QD) embedding CuS (PbS[CuS] QDs) by rapid injection of a sulfur precursor into a lead precursor solution followed by cation exchange of Pb with Cu ions.
MWCNT porous microspheres with an efficient 3D conductive network for high performance lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Ye Xiaomin , Ma Jie , Hu Yong-Sheng , Wei Huiying , Ye Fangfu
Published: November 2015

A novel multi-walled carbon nanotubes microspheres were successfully prepared and applied to the sulfur cathode of lithium sulfur batteries.
Exosome-inspired targeting of cancer cells with enhanced affinity
Authors: Hosseini A. , Soleimani Sh. , Pezeshgi Modarres H. , Hojjati Emami Sh. , Tondar M. , Bahlakeh G. , Hasani-Sadrabadi M. M.
Published: November 2015

Herein the combination of molecular dynamics simulations and experimental frameworks for mimicking the exosomes to build next generation cancer nanomedicine is presented.
Formulation of benzoxaborole drugs in PLLA: from materials preparation to in vitro release kinetics and cellular assays
Authors: Sene Saad , McLane Joshua , Schaub Nicholas , Bégu Sylvie , Hubert Mutin P. , Ligon Lee , Gilbert Ryan J. , Laurencin Danielle
Published: November 2015

A complete investigation on the incorporation of simple benzoxaboroles into PLLA-based films was carried out.
Green preparation of flaky silver powders with nano-thickness towards electrically conductive adhesives through a nanofilm transition method
Authors: Shen Yuqiu , Chen Zhenxing , Zhou Tingting , Feng Wenchao , Liu Yi
Published: November 2015

Flaky silver powders with nano-thickness and a smooth surface were prepared through a nanofilm transition method which is environmentally-friendly.
Dynamics of NAD-metabolism: everything but constant
Authors: Opitz Christiane A. , Heiland Ines
Published: November 2015

NAD, as well as its phosphorylated form, NADP, are best known as electron carriers and co-substrates of various redox reactions. As such they participate in approximately one quarter of all reactions listed in the reaction database KEGG. In metabolic pathway analysis, the total amount of NAD is usually assumed to be constant. That means that changes in the redox state might be considered, but concentration changes of the NAD moiety are usually neglected. However, a growing number of NAD-consuming reactions have been identified, showing that this assumption does not hold true in general. NAD-consuming reactions are common characteristics of NAD+-dependent signalling pathways and include mono- and poly-ADP-ribosylation of proteins, NAD+-dependent deacetylation by sirtuins and the formation of messenger molecules such as cyclic ADP-ribose (cADPR) and nicotinic acid (NA)-ADP (NAADP). NAD-consuming reactions are thus involved in major signalling and gene regulation pathways such as DNA-repair or regulation of enzymes central in metabolism. All known NAD+-dependent signalling processes include the release of nicotinamide (Nam). Thus cellular NAD pools need to be constantly replenished, mostly by recycling Nam to NAD+. This process is, among others, regulated by the circadian clock, causing complex dynamic changes in NAD concentration. As disturbances in NAD homoeostasis are associated with a large number of diseases ranging from cancer to diabetes, it is important to better understand the dynamics of NAD metabolism to develop efficient pharmacological invention strategies to target this pathway.
Metabolic flux prediction in cancer cells with altered substrate uptake
Authors: Schwartz Jean-Marc , Barber Michael , Soons Zita
Published: November 2015

Proliferating cells, such as cancer cells, are known to have an unusual metabolism, characterized by an increased rate of glycolysis and amino acid metabolism. Our understanding of this phenomenon is limited but could potentially be used in order to develop new therapies. Computational modelling techniques, such as flux balance analysis (FBA), have been used to predict fluxes in various cell types, but remain of limited use to explain the unusual metabolic shifts and altered substrate uptake in human cancer cells. We implemented a new flux prediction method based on elementary modes (EMs) and structural flux (StruF) analysis and tested them against experimentally measured flux data obtained from 13C-labelling in a cancer cell line. We assessed the quality of predictions using different objective functions along with different techniques in normalizing a metabolic network with more than one substrate input. Results show a good correlation between predicted and experimental values and indicate that the choice of cellular objective critically affects the quality of predictions. In particular, lactate gives an excellent correlation and correctly predicts the high flux through glycolysis, matching the observed characteristics of cancer cells. In contrast with FBA, which requires a priori definition of all uptake rates, often hard to measure, atomic StruFs (aStruFs) are able to predict uptake rates of multiple substrates.
Mechanisms of regulation of mature miRNAs
Authors: Towler Benjamin P. , Jones Christopher I. , Newbury Sarah F.
Published: November 2015

miRNAs are short RNA molecules of ∼22-nt in length that play important roles in post-transcriptional control of gene expression. miRNAs normally function as negative regulators of mRNA expression by binding complementary sequences in the 3′-UTR of target mRNAs and causing translational repression and/or target degradation. Much research has been undertaken to enhance understanding of the biogenesis, function and targeting of miRNAs. However, until recently, the mechanisms underlying the regulation of the levels of mature miRNAs themselves have been largely overlooked. Although it has generally been assumed that miRNAs are stable molecules, recent evidence indicates that the stability of specific mature miRNAs can be regulated during key cellular and developmental processes in certain cell types. Here we discuss the current knowledge of the mechanisms by which mature miRNAs are regulated in the cell and the factors that contribute to the control of their stability.
eIF2B: recent structural and functional insights into a key regulator of translation
Authors: Wortham Noel C. , Proud Christopher G.
Published: November 2015

The eukaryotic translation initiation factor (eIF) eIF2B is a key regulator of mRNA translation, being the guanine nt exchange factor (GEF) responsible for the recycling of the heterotrimeric G-protein, eIF2, which is required to allow translation initiation to occur. Unusually for a GEF, eIF2B is a multi-subunit protein, comprising five different subunits termed α through ε in order of increasing size. eIF2B is subject to tight regulation in the cell and may also serve additional functions. Here we review recent insights into the subunit organization of the mammalian eIF2B complex, gained both from structural studies of the complex and from studies of mutations of eIF2B that result in the neurological disorder leukoencephalopathy with vanishing white matter (VWM). We will also discuss recent data from yeast demonstrating a novel function of the eIF2B complex key for translational regulation.
Poly(A)-binding proteins and mRNA localization: who rules the roost?
Authors: Gray Nicola K. , Hrabálková Lenka , Scanlon Jessica P. , Smith Richard W.P.
Published: November 2015

RNA-binding proteins are often multifunctional, interact with a variety of protein partners and display complex localizations within cells. Mammalian cytoplasmic poly(A)-binding proteins (PABPs) are multifunctional RNA-binding proteins that regulate multiple aspects of mRNA translation and stability. Although predominantly diffusely cytoplasmic at steady state, they shuttle through the nucleus and can be localized to a variety of cytoplasmic foci, including those associated with mRNA storage and localized translation. Intriguingly, PABP sub-cellular distribution can alter dramatically in response to cellular stress or viral infection, becoming predominantly nuclear and/or being enriched in induced cytoplasmic foci. However, relatively little is known about the mechanisms that govern this distribution/relocalization and in many cases PABP functions within specific sites remain unclear. Here we discuss the emerging evidence with respect to these questions in mammals.
Axial motion estimation and compensation method for synthetic aperture sequential beamforming LaTeX submissions to Electronics Letters
Authors: Li Hua , Meng Xiaohui , Wang Junlin , Hao Chengpeng , Xiao Ling
Published: November 2015

Synthetic aperture sequential beamforming (SASB) is a two‐stage delay‐and‐sum beamforming procedure, which can be applied to B‐mode imaging with an implementation of low complexity compared to the traditional synthetic transmit aperture imaging. A new SASB imaging scheme in order to compensate the effects of axial motion is proposed. The velocity and direction of the motion can be evaluated by cross‐correlation between specific beams according to adjacent focus of the SASB. The performance assessment, conducted by using simulated data, reveals that the proposed method can correct the positions of tissue motion without extra firings.
Adaptive interferences suppression algorithm after subarray configuration for large‐scale antenna array
Authors: Sun Chenwei , Tao Haihong , Guo Xiaoshuang , Xie Jian
Published: November 2015

For the interferences suppression of a large‐scale antenna array after a subarray configuration (SC), a generalised sidelobe canceller (GSC) weighting approximation at irregular subarrays algorithm is presented. First, the SC is obtained by particle swarm optimisation. Then, digital weights of the second‐class subarrays and also the analogue weights of the elements and first‐class subarrays are optimised in two steps by convex optimisation to approximate GSC weights to the maximum extent, which are directly applied at the element level of the whole array. Simulation results are presented that prove that the proposed algorithm achieves better performance of anti‐jamming than direct GSC weighting at subarrays.
Least squares channel estimation with noise suppression for OFDM systems
Authors: Zheng Zhi , Hao Caiyong , Yang Xuemin
Published: November 2015

A novel least‐squares (LSs) channel estimation method for OFDM systems is proposed. Compared with the conventional LS method, the proposed method employs several extra steps to suppress the noise effect. Thus, it can provide a better estimation performance than the conventional LS method. Moreover, the proposed method does not increase the occupation of frequency‐band resources and has some application value for engineering. Simulation results demonstrate the performance of this method.
Surface error diagnosis of large reflector antenna with microwave holography based on active deformation
Authors: Liu Kangkang , Ye Qian , Meng Guoxiang
Published: November 2015

Microwave holographic techniques have been used widely in the radio astronomy area. A new surface diagnosis method based on the phase‐retrieval holograph algorithm is proposed. This approach focuses on a novel application of the active deformation. Multiple far‐field patterns are measured in focus by adjusting the deformation of the main reflector actively. Using the amplitude of far‐field patterns, the phase distribution of the aperture can be retrieved by the phase‐retrieval technique. Simulation results demonstrate the feasibility of this method.
Multi‐way relaying for cooperative indoor power line communications
Authors: Noori Moslem , Lampe Lutz
Published: November 2015

Sustaining high data rates over an indoor broadband power line communication (PLC) link is a challenging task due to the significant attenuation of high frequency signals transmitted over power cables. Repeaters are often used to alleviate the problem of signal attenuation, however, this comes at a loss of multiplexing gain. On the other hand, modern relaying concepts, as used in wireless systems, are not as effective in PLC setups due to the absence of diversity improvement. In this study, the authors address this issue and propose a new approach to improve the multiplexing gain of relay‐aided PLC systems. The authors consider a multi‐user indoor PLC scenario where all users want to share their data. For this setup, the authors then advocate the application of amplify‐and‐forward (AF) multi‐way relaying (MWR). Considering the practical constraints of an indoor PLC system, the authors study the achievable data rates of AF MWR, and compare them to those achievable with direct (non‐cooperative) transmission and conventional relaying schemes. The simulations demonstrate that depending on the network topology, MWR can result in significant performance improvement. The authors further discuss how their rate analysis can be exploited to decrease the energy consumption in the system.
Comparative Study of Untethering and Spine-Shortening Surgery for Tethered Cord Syndrome in Adults
Authors: Nakashima Hiroaki , Imagama Shiro , Matsui Hiroki , Yukawa Yasutsugu , Sato Koji , Kanemura Tokumi , Kamiya Mitsuhiro , Ito Kenyu , Matsuyama Yukihiro , Ishiguro Naoki , Kato Fumihiko
Published: November 2015

Study Design

Retrospective multicenter study.

Objective

Although untethering surgery has been a standard treatment in patients with adult tethered cord syndrome (TCS), spine-shortening osteotomy (SSO) has recently been performed as an alternative technique. The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes of the two procedures for TCS in adults.

Methods

Fourteen patients (37.7 ± 12.5 years) with TCS were enrolled at 6 hospitals. Their clinical charts, operative records, and follow-up data were reviewed. The categories of tethering lesions were tight terminal filum in 1 patient, lipoma in 5 patients, and lipomyelomeningocele in 8 patients. Eleven patients underwent untethering surgery, and 3 patients underwent SSO surgery.

Results

There were no significant differences in age, sex, types of preoperative symptoms, or duration of follow-up between the two groups. The preoperative duration of symptoms was significantly longer (25 ± 12.4 years) and the percentage of those with prior surgery was higher in the SSO group (66.7%). The preoperative pathology was lipomeningocele in all SSO group and lipoma or tight terminal filum in the untethering group. Cerebrospinal fluid leakage and urinary infection occurred in 1 patient each among those with untethering, and massive intraoperative bleeding occurred in 1 patient with SSO. SSO provided better clinical improvement than untethering surgery ( p = 0.003).

Conclusions

Based on this small retrospective case series, SSO appears to provide clinical improvement at least comparable to the untethering procedure, especially in more challenging cases.
Thromboembolic Disease after Cervical Spine Surgery: A Review of 5,405 Surgical Procedures and Matched Cohort Analysis
Authors: Sebastian Arjun S. , Currier Bradford L. , Clarke Michelle J. , Larson Dirk , Huddleston Paul M. , Nassr Ahmad
Published: November 2015

Study Design

Retrospective matched cohort analysis.

Objective

The majority of the literature on venous thromboembolism (VTE) after spine surgery is limited to studies of thoracolumbar surgery. Less is known regarding the incidence of VTE and associated risk factors following cervical spine surgery.

Methods

A total of 5,405 patients at our institution underwent cervical diskectomy, laminectomy, corpectomy, laminoplasty, or fusion between 1995 and 2012; 85 of the 5,405 patients (1.57%) suffered either a DVT (55) or pulmonary embolus (51) within 30 days postoperatively. The cases were matched 1:2 to controls based on age, sex, and date of surgery. Data regarding multiple perioperative factors, demographics, and comorbidities was collected.

Results

Several risk factors were identified for VTE. Significant medical comorbidities included chronic venous insufficiency (odds ratio [OR] = 3.40), atrial fibrillation (OR = 2.69), obesity (OR = 2.67), and ischemic heart disease (OR = 2.18). Staged surgery (OR = 28.0), paralysis (OR = 19.0), combined approach (OR = 7.46), surgery for infection (OR = 18.5), surgery for trauma (OR = 11.1), comorbid traumatic injuries (OR > 10), oncologic procedures (OR = 5.2), use of iliac crest autograft (OR = 4.16), two or more surgical levels (OR = 3.48), blood loss > 300 mL (OR = 1.66), and length of stay 5 days or greater (OR = 3.47) were all found to be risk factors for VTE ( p < 0.05) in univariate analysis. Multivariate analysis found staged surgery (OR = 35.7), paralysis (OR = 7.86), and nonelective surgery (OR = 6.29) to be independent risk factors for VTE.

Conclusions

Although the incidence of VTE following cervical spine surgery is low, we identified several risk factors that may be predictive. More aggressive approaches to prophylaxis and surveillance in certain patient populations may be warranted.
Lightlike hypersurfaces along spacelike submanifolds in anti-de Sitter space
Authors: Izumiya Shyuichi
Published: November 2015

Anti-de Sitter space is the Lorentzian space form with negative curvature. In this paper, we consider lightlike hypersurfaces along spacelike submanifolds in anti-de Sitter space with general codimension. In particular, we investigate the singularities of lightlike hypersurfaces as an application of the theory of Legendrian singularities.
Low energy, high power hydrogen neutral beam for plasma heating
Authors: Deichuli P. , Davydenko V. , Ivanov A. , Korepanov S. , Mishagin V. , Smirnov A. , Sorokin A. , Stupishin N.
Published: November 2015

A high power, relatively low energy neutral beam injector was developed to upgrade of the neutral beam system of the gas dynamic trap device and C2-U experiment. The ion source of the injector produces a proton beam with the particle energy of 15 keV, current of up to 175 A, and pulse duration of a few milliseconds. The plasma emitter of the ion source is produced by superimposing highly ionized plasma jets from an array of four arc-discharge plasma generators. A multipole magnetic field produced with permanent magnets at the periphery of the plasma box is used to increase the efficiency and improve the uniformity of the plasma emitter. Multi-slit grids with 48% transparency are fabricated from bronze plates, which are spherically shaped to provide geometrical beam focusing. The focal length of the Ion Optical System (IOS) is 3.5 m and the initial beam diameter is 34 cm. The IOS geometry and grid potentials were optimized numerically to ensure accurate beam formation. The measured angular divergences of the beam are ±0.01 rad parallel to the slits and ±0.03 rad in the transverse direction.
On the generalized Wannier functions
Authors: Prodan Emil
Published: November 2015

We consider single particle Schrödinger operators with a gap in the energy spectrum. We construct a complete, orthonormal basis function set for the invariant space corresponding to the spectrum below the spectral gap, which are exponentially localized around a set of closed surfaces of monotonically increasing sizes. Estimates on the exponential decay rate and a discussion of the geometry of these surfaces are included.
Note: A novel and robust circuit for jitter reduction in copper vapor laser system
Authors: Mishra R. K. , Raju D. V. S. , Nakhe S. V.
Published: November 2015

A novel circuit scheme is presented to improve timing jitter performance of high voltage pulse power supply utilizing semiconductor switches and magnetic pulse compressors, for pumping pulsed copper vapor lasers. The circuit effectively handles reflected energy from the laser load and achieves better jitter performance. The proposed circuit scheme had typical jitter value of ±2 ns whereas the standard circuit used earlier had jitter of more than ±10 ns under similar conditions. Performance of the circuit scheme is studied on a copper vapor laser operating at average laser power of 40 W.
Electro-microinjection of fish eggs with an immobile capillary electrode
Authors: Shirakashi Ryo , Yasui Tatsuo , Memmel Simon , Sukhorukov Vladimir L.
Published: November 2015

Microinjection with ultra-fine glass capillaries is widely used to introduce cryoprotective agents and other foreign molecules into animal cells, oocytes, and embryos. The fragility of glass capillaries makes difficult the microinjection of fish eggs and embryos, which are usually protected by a hard outer shell, called the chorion. In this study, we introduce a new electromechanical approach, based on the electropiercing of fish eggs with a stationary needle electrode. The electropiercing setup consists of two asymmetric electrodes, including a μm-scaled nickel needle placed opposite to a mm-scaled planar counter-electrode. A fish egg is immersed in low-conductivity solution and positioned between the electrodes. Upon application of a short electric pulse of sufficient field strength, the chorion is electroporated and the egg is attracted to the needle electrode by positive dielectrophoresis. As a result, the hard chorion and the subjacent yolk membrane are impaled by the sharp electrode tip, thus providing direct access to the egg yolk plasma. Our experiments on early-stage medaka fish embryos showed the applicability of electro-microinjection to fish eggs measuring about 1 mm in diameter. We optimized the electropiercing of medaka eggs with respect to the field strength, pulse duration, and conductivity of bathing medium. We microscopically examined the injection of dye solution into egg yolk and the impact of electropiercing on embryos' viability and development. We also analyzed the mechanisms of electropiercing in comparison with the conventional mechanical microinjection. The new electropiercing method has a high potential for automation, e.g., via integration into microfluidic devices, which would allow a large-scale microinjection of fish eggs for a variety of applications in basic research and aquaculture.
Understanding flocculation mechanism of graphene oxide for organic dyes from water: Experimental and molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Liu Jun , Li Peng , Xiao Hang , Zhang Yayun , Shi Xiaoyang , Lü Xiaomeng , Chen Xi
Published: November 2015

Flocculation treatment processes play an important role in water and wastewater pretreatment. Here we investigate experimentally and theoretically the possibility of using graphene oxide (GO) as a flocculant to remove methylene blue (MB) from water. Experimental results show that GO can remove almost all MB from aqueous solutions at its optimal dosages and molecular dynamics simulations indicate that MB cations quickly congregate around GO in water. Furthermore, PIXEL energy contribution analysis reveals that most of the strong interactions between GO and MB are of a van der Waals (London dispersion) character. These results offer new insights for shedding light on the molecular mechanism of interaction between GO and organic pollutants.
An Injectable Double-Network Hydrogel for Cell Encapsulation
Authors: Chee Pei Lin , Lakshmanan Lakshmi , Jiang Shan , Ye Hongye , Kai Dan , Loh Xian Jun
Published: November 2015

Further developing on the technique originally intended for the purpose of forming tough hydrogels, we showed in this study that the double-network system can also be used to synthesize an injectable gel. The gel was made up of poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate, sodium alginic acid, and calcium chloride, and two networks, consisting of ionic and covalent networks, were found to co-exist in the gel. Additionally, the rheology studies showed that the mechanical properties of the gel only deteriorated under high strain, demonstrating the robustness of the gel upon injection. The results of a cell cytotoxicity test and a preliminary cell encapsulation study were promising, showing good cell compatibility and thus suggesting that the hydrogels could potentially be used for cell delivery.
Quantitative electron microprobe mapping of otoliths suggests elemental incorporation is affected by organic matrices: implications for the interpretation of otolith chemistry
Authors: McFadden A. , Wade B. , Izzo C. , Gillanders B. M. , Lenehan C. E. , Pring A.
Published: November 2015

In an effort to understand the mechanism of otolith elemental incorporation, the distribution of strontium (Sr) and sulfur (S) in otoliths of Platycephalus bassensis was investigated in conjunction with otolith growth patterns. Optimisation of electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) quantitative mapping achieved both high spatial resolution (<3µm) and two-dimensional visualisation of the fine scale Sr and S distributions in otoliths of P. bassensis with minimal damage. Electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) mapping confirmed that grain growth is aligned with the otolith c-axis, with grain orientation independent of both otolith elemental composition and growth patterns. Results showed a linear correlation between Sr and S distribution (R2=0.86), and a clear association with the otolith growth patterns determined by scanning electron microscopy. Further examination by laser ablation–inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) showed that incorporation of Mg and Ba appeared independent of both S distribution and the growth patterns. The results suggest that element incorporation into the otolith is linked to the organic composition in the endolymph during mineralisation, and the organic matrices may assist, in part, the uptake of Sr. Thus, these findings may have significant implications for the interpretation of otolith Sr chemistry.
Industrial past, urban future: using palaeo-studies to determine the industrial legacy of the Barwon Estuary, Victoria, Australia
Authors: Reeves J. M. , Gell P. A. , Reichman S. M. , Trewarn A. J. , Zawadzki A.
Published: November 2015

Around the globe, heavy industry has often been associated with estuaries, which provide water for operations, waste disposal and navigation. Many of these practices leave a legacy of contamination, which accumulate in the estuaries, which act as sediment sinks. Heavy metal contaminants may remain buried, even after the industrial practices are ceased. The Connewarre Complex is a series of wetlands, within the Port Philip and Bellarine Ramsar site. Through a unique combination of techniques, including diatom assemblages, biogeochemistry (δ13C, δ15N, C/N) and heavy metal content, the major anthropogenic influences over the last 170 years and the biotic response has been determined. Key features that can be elucidated include regulation of the waterways, establishment of heavy industry and major shifts in climatic conditions. In combination, these drivers have acted to rapidly shift the condition of the wetland from early in settlement such that the perceived ‘natural ecological character’ is actually an artificial one. The legacy of contamination is common to many Ramsar-listed wetlands. The lesson from this site is that, when making plans to manage the ecological condition of a wetland, past use needs to be considered to ensure that well meaning interventions do not exacerbate risk of mobilising contaminants best left undisturbed.
Measurements, datasets and preliminary results from the RxCADRE project – 2008, 2011 and 2012
Authors: Ottmar Roger D. , Hiers J. Kevin , Butler Bret W. , Clements Craig B. , Dickinson Matthew B. , Hudak Andrew T. , O'Brien Joseph J. , Potter Brian E. , Rowell Eric M. , Strand Tara M. , Zajkowski Thomas J.
Published: November 2015

The lack of independent, quality-assured field data prevents scientists from effectively evaluating and advancing wildland fire models. To rectify this, scientists and technicians convened in the south-eastern United States in 2008, 2011 and 2012 to collect wildland fire data in six integrated core science disciplines defined by the fire modelling community. These were fuels, meteorology, fire behaviour, energy, smoke emissions and fire effects. The campaign is known as the Prescribed Fire Combustion and Atmospheric Dynamics Research Experiment (RxCADRE) and sampled 14 forest and 14 non-forest sample units associated within 6 small replicate (<10 ha) and 10 large operational (between 10 and 1000 ha) prescribed fires. Precampaign planning included identifying hosting agencies receptive to research and the development of study, logistics and safety plans. Data were quality-assured, reduced, analysed and formatted and placed into a globally accessible repository maintained by the US Forest Service Research Data Archive. The success of the RxCADRE project led to the commencement of a follow-on larger multiagency project called the Fire and Smoke Model Evaluation Experiment (FASMEE). This overview summarises the RxCADRE project and nine companion papers that describe the data collection, analysis and important conclusions from the six science disciplines.
Molecular bases for the selection of the chromophore of animal rhodopsins
Authors: Luk Hoi Ling , Melaccio Federico , Rinaldi Silvia , Gozem Samer , Olivucci Massimo
Published: November 2015

Significance

Microbial and animal rhodopsins share several striking structural features including a seven α-helix fold and a highly conserved active-site lysine in the seventh helix. However, these protein families lack significant similarity in their amino acid sequence. In this paper we address the question of why the sequence of animal rhodopsins, featuring an 11-
cis
chromophore, could have diverged from a microbial ancestor incorporating the more stable all-
trans
chromophore. We show that, by using light-responsive computer models of a eubacterial sensory rhodopsin and of a vertebrate visual rhodopsin, it is possible to identify a distinctive electronic character of the 11-
cis
chromophore that could have become an effective target for natural selection.