bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Common features in the unfolding and misfolding of PDZ domains and beyond: the modulatory effect of domain swapping and extra-elements
Authors: Murciano-Calles Javier , Güell-Bosch Jofre , Villegas Sandra , Martinez Jose C.
Published: January 2016

PDZ domains are protein-protein interaction modules sharing the same structural arrangement. To discern whether they display common features in their unfolding/misfolding behaviour we have analyzed in this work the unfolding thermodynamics, together with the misfolding kinetics, of the PDZ fold using three archetypical examples: the second and third PDZ domains of the PSD95 protein and the Erbin PDZ domain. Results showed that all domains passed through a common intermediate, which populated upon unfolding and that this in turn drove the misfolding towards worm-like fibrillar structures. Thus, the unfolding/misfolding behaviour appears to be shared within these domains. We have also analyzed how this landscape can be modified upon the inclusion of extra-elements, as it is in the nNOS PDZ domain, or the organization of swapped species, as happens in the second PDZ domain of the ZO2 protein. Although the intermediates still formed upon thermal unfolding, the misfolding was prevented to varying degrees.
Presynaptic GABAB receptors reduce transmission at parabrachial synapses in the lateral central amygdala by inhibiting N-type calcium channels
Authors: Delaney A.J. , Crane J.W.
Published: January 2016

The nocioceptive information carried by neurons of the pontine parabrachial nucleus to neurons of the lateral division of the central amydala (CeA-L) is thought to contribute to the affective components of pain and is required for the formation of conditioned-fear memories. Importantly, excitatory transmission between parabrachial axon terminals and CeA-L neurons can be inhibited by a number of presynaptic receptors linked to Gi/o-type G-proteins, including α2-adrenoceptors and GABAB receptors. While the intracellular signalling pathway responsible for α2-adrenoceptor inhibition of synaptic transmission at this synapse is known, the mechanism by which GABAB receptors inhibits transmission has not been determined. The present study demonstrates that activation of presynaptic GABAB receptors reduces excitatory transmission between parabrachial axon terminals and CeA-L neurons by inhibiting N-type calcium channels. While the involvement of Gβγ subunits in mediating the inhibitory effects of GABAB receptors on N-type calcium channels is unclear, this inhibition does not involve Gβγ-independent activation of pp60C-src tyrosine kinase. The results of this study further enhance our understanding of the modulation of the excitatory input from parabrachial axon terminals to CeA-L neurons and indicate that presynaptic GABAB receptors at this synapse could be valuable therapeutic targets for the treatment of fear- and pain-related disorders.
Characterization and putative post-translational regulation of α- and β-tubulin gene families in Salix arbutifolia
Authors: Rao Guodong , Zeng Yanfei , He Caiyun , Zhang Jianguo
Published: January 2016

Microtubules, which are composed of heterodimers of α-tubulin (TUA) and β-tubulin (TUB) proteins, are closely associated with cellulose microfibril deposition and play pivotal roles in plant secondary cell wall development. In the present study, we identified eight TUA and twenty TUB genes in willow (Salix arbutifolia). Quantitative real-time PCR analysis showed that the small number of TUA gene family members relative to that of TUBs was complemented by a higher transcript copy number for each TUA gene, which is essential to the maintenance of the tubulin 1:1 heterodimer assembly. In Salix, five of eight TUAs were determined to be unusual because these contained a C-terminal methionine acid, leucine acid, glutamic acid and glutamine acid, instead of the more typical tyrosine residue, which in turn generated the hypothesis of post-translational modifications (PTMs) that included deleucylation, demethiolation, deglutamynation and deaspartylation. These PTMs are responsible for the removal of additional amino acid residues from TUAs prior to detyrosination, which is the first step of C-terminal PTMs. The additional PTMs of the TUA gene family might be responsible for the formation of different tubulin heterodimers that may have diverse functions for the adaptation of the woody perennial growth for Salix.
Hippocampal harms, protection and recovery following regular cannabis use
Authors: Yücel M , Lorenzetti V , Suo C , Zalesky A , Fornito A , Takagi M J , Lubman D I , Solowij N
Published: January 2016

Shifting policies towards legalisation of cannabis for therapeutic and recreational use raise significant ethical issues for health-care providers seeking evidence-based recommendations. We investigated whether heavy cannabis use is associated with persistent harms to the hippocampus, if exposure to cannabidiol offers protection, and whether recovery occurs with abstinence. To do this, we assessed 111 participants: 74 long-term regular cannabis users (with an average of 15.4 years of use) and 37 non-user healthy controls. Cannabis users included subgroups of participants who were either exposed to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) but not to cannabidiol (CBD) or exposed to both, and former users with sustained abstinence. Participants underwent magnetic resonance imaging from which three measures of hippocampal integrity were assessed: (i) volume; (ii) fractional anisotropy; and (iii) N-acetylaspartate (NAA). Three curve-fitting models across the entire sample were tested for each measure to examine whether cannabis-related hippocampal harms are persistent, can be minimised (protected) by exposure to CBD or recovered through long-term abstinence. These analyses supported a protection and recovery model for hippocampal volume (P=0.003) and NAA (P=0.001). Further pairwise analyses showed that cannabis users had smaller hippocampal volumes relative to controls. Users not exposed to CBD had 11% reduced volumes and 15% lower NAA concentrations. Users exposed to CBD and former users did not differ from controls on any measure. Ongoing cannabis use is associated with harms to brain health, underpinned by chronic exposure to THC. However, such harms are minimised by CBD, and can be recovered with extended periods of abstinence.
Development of a novel and simple method for clinical therapeutic drug monitoring of aminophylline in humans based on a MWNTs-SiO2/Au composite modified screen-printed electrode
Authors: Peng Anlin , Wang Yuting , Xiao Jing , Wang Shi , Ding Hong
Published: January 2016

Aminophylline is a drug that needs therapeutic drug monitoring in clinical treatment.
A review on the latest developments in nanostructure-based electrochemical sensors for glutathione
Authors: Zaidi Shabi Abbas , Shin Jae Ho
Published: January 2016

Glutathione, a low molecular mass thiol compound, is considered a vital biomarker for various disease and cancers owing to the variation in the level of GSH from its normal level in the micromolar to millimolar range in biological fluids and cells.
Gold random microarrays: design, characterization and amperometric determination of ciclopirox olamine in pharmaceutical products
Authors: Ruas de Souza Ana Paula , Felix Fabiana Silva , Castro Pollyana Souza , Angnes Lúcio , Bertotti Mauro
Published: January 2016

In this work, a disposable gold random microarray (GRM) sensor was developed and applied for the determination of ciclopirox olamine in 0.10 mol L−1Britton Robinson buffer (pH 5.0).
Determination of chromium(iii) by differential pulse stripping voltammetry at a chitosan–gold nanocomposite modified screen printed electrode
Authors: Wu Shixin , Chandra Sekar Nadia , Tan Swee Ngin , Xie Hong , Ng Sum Huan
Published: January 2016

Detection of trivalent chromium with screen printed electrodes modified by chitosan–gold nanocomposites using differential pulse voltammetry (DPSV), showing a linear range from 1 to 100 μM and a detection limit of 0.4 μM (based on 3σ).
Synthesis of ROS scavenging microspheres from a dopamine containing poly(β-amino ester) for applications for neurodegenerative disorders
Authors: Newland Ben , Wolff Paul , Zhou Dezhong , Wang Wei , Zhang Hong , Rosser Anne , Wang Wenxin , Werner Carsten
Published: January 2016

Microspheres containing a photocrosslinkable dopamine poly(β-amino ester) show an excellent free radical scavenging capability.
Dynamic nuclear polarization of biocompatible13C-enriched carbonates for in vivo pH imaging
Authors: Korenchan D. E. , Flavell R. R. , Baligand C. , Sriram R. , Neumann K. , Sukumar S. , VanBrocklin H. , Vigneron D. B. , Wilson D. M. , Kurhanewicz J.
Published: January 2016

High concentrations of hyperpolarized13C-bicarbonate are generatedviarapid hydrolysis of highly polarizable, low-toxicity carbonate precursors.
Molecular titanium–hydroxamate complexes as models for TiO2 surface binding
Authors: Brennan Bradley J. , Chen Jeffrey , Rudshteyn Benjamin , Chaudhuri Subhajyoti , Mercado Brandon Q. , Batista Victor S. , Crabtree Robert H. , Brudvig Gary W.
Published: January 2016

Molecular titanium(iv) hydroxamate complexes were synthesized and used as models to determine the hydroxamate–metal oxide surface binding motif on TiO2.
Inhibition and disintegration of insulin amyloid fibrils: a facile supramolecular strategy with p-sulfonatocalixarenes
Authors: Shinde Meenakshi N. , Barooah Nilotpal , Bhasikuttan Achikanath C. , Mohanty Jyotirmayee
Published: January 2016

This study reveals the ability ofp-sulfonatocalix[4/6]arenes to effectively inhibit the fibril formation in human insulin and demonstrate its potential to disintegrate/dissolve the mature fibrils, a promising supramolecular therapeutic strategy for amyloidosis.
Moving systems of polar dimeric capsules out of thermal equilibrium by light irradiation
Authors: Díaz-Moscoso Alejandro , Arroyave Frank A. , Ballester Pablo
Published: January 2016

By inserting stimuli-responsive groups (azobenzene) in hetero-dimeric capsules, we are able to modify the equilibrium state of the system and the exchange between different host–guest assemblies in a reversible manner.
Graphene-catalyzed photoreduction of dye molecules revealed by graphene enhanced Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Lee Bora , Kang Jin Hyoun , Jo Insu , Shin Dongha , Hong Byung Hee
Published: January 2016

The single layer graphene can catalyze the photoreduction of nitrobenzene dye compounds, revealed by GERS.
Chemical and physical processes in the retention of functional groups in plasma polymers studied by plasma phase mass spectroscopy
Authors: Ryssy Joonas , Prioste-Amaral Eloni , Assuncao Daniela F. N. , Rogers Nicholas , Kirby Giles T. S. , Smith Louise E. , Michelmore Andrew
Published: January 2016

Retention of functional groups in plasma polymers depend on plasma chemistry and physical surface processes.
Heavy snow: IR spectroscopy of isotope mixed crystalline water ice
Authors: Wong Andy , Shi Liang , Auchettl Rebecca , McNaughton Don , Appadoo Dominique R. T. , Robertson Evan G.
Published: January 2016

Temperature and isotopic dependence of simulated and experimental spectra shed light on the vibrational modes of crystalline water ice.
Synthesis of butterfly-like ZnO nanostructures and study of their self-reducing ability toward Au3+ ions for enhanced photocatalytic efficiency
Authors: Song Xueling , Liu Yumeng , Zheng Yan , Ding Kun , Nie Shijie , Yang Ping
Published: January 2016

Hierarchical ZnO–Au composites exhibiting enhanced photocatalytic performance were synthesized by utilizing the self-reducing ability of the as-obtained ZnO.
Electronic and transport properties of the (VBz)n@MoS2NT nanocable
Authors: Gan Tian , Zhang Guiling , Shang Yan , Su Xiaohong , Yang Zhao-Di , Sun Xiaojun
Published: January 2016

The electronic structure of a novel inorganic (8, 8) MoS2nanotube nanocable, (VBz)n@MoS2NT, (where Bz refers to C6H6), is investigated using density functional theory.
Minimum size for a nanoscale temperature discriminator based on a thermochemical system
Authors: Gorecki J. , Nowakowski B. , Gorecka J. N. , Lemarchand A.
Published: January 2016

The minimum size of a chemical discriminator is estimated by considering the influence of internal fluctuations on the system time evolution.
The amino side chains do matter: chemoselectivity in the one-pot three-component synthesis of 2-amino-4H-chromenes by supramolecular catalysis with amino-appended β-cyclodextrins (ACDs) in water
Authors: Ren Yufeng , Yang Bo , Liao Xiali
Published: January 2016

The one-pot three-component synthesis of 2-amino-4H-chromenes was accomplished by supramolecular catalysis with well-designed amino-appended β-cyclodextrins (ACDs) in water, while the key role of amino side chains in chemoselectivity was determined for the first time.
The curious effects of integrating bimetallic active centres within nanoporous architectures for acid-catalysed transformations
Authors: Potter Matthew E. , Sun Danni , Raja Robert
Published: January 2016

Engineering site-specific interactions, by introducing complementary transition-metal ions within nanoporous architectures, affords tunability in solid-acid catalysed transformations.
Pentamethylcyclopentadienyl-rhodium and iridium complexes containing (N^N and N^O) bound chloroquine analogue ligands: synthesis, characterization and antimalarial properties
Authors: Ekengard Erik , Kumar Kamlesh , Fogeron Thibault , de Kock Carmen , Smith Peter J. , Haukka Matti , Monari Magda , Nordlander Ebbe
Published: January 2016

Rhodium and iridium cyclopentadienyl complexes have been examined for anti-malarial activity. Three rhodium complexes are especially active.
Synthesis of sub-nanometer gold particles on modified silica
Authors: Beloqui Redondo A. , Ranocchiari M. , van Bokhoven J. A.
Published: January 2016

The deposition of gold on silica tends to give large particles when using conventional techniques.
Wells to wheels: water consumption for transportation fuels in the United States
Authors: Lampert David J. , Cai Hao , Elgowainy Amgad
Published: January 2016

Supply chains for transportation fuels were analyzed using an extensive system boundary to gain insights into the connections between transportation energy and water resource consumption.
Current methodologies for a sustainable approach to π-conjugated organic semiconductors
Authors: Marrocchi Assunta , Facchetti Antonio , Lanari Daniela , Petrucci Chiara , Vaccaro Luigi
Published: January 2016

The development of waste minimized and clean synthetic methodologies to afford polymeric semiconductors is essential for the successful commercialization of opto-electronic devices.
Injectable silica–permanganate gel as a slow-release MnO4− source for groundwater remediation: rheological properties and release dynamics
Authors: Yang S. , Oostrom M. , Truex M. J. , Li G. , Zhong L.
Published: January 2016

A mixture of aqueous KMnO4 solution and fumed silica powders produces a gel that slowly releases a MnO4− oxidant which enhances the removal of chlorinated contaminants from pore water in aquifers.
Resveratrol modulates intestinal morphology and HSP70/90, NF-κB and EGF expression in the jejunal mucosa of black-boned chickens on exposure to circular heat stress
Authors: Liu Lili , Fu Chenxing , Yan Mingli , Xie Hongbing , Li Si , Yu Qifang , He Shaoping , He Jianhua
Published: January 2016

The aim of this study was to investigate whether supplementation with resveratrol could alleviate intestinal injuries and to explore how resveratrol regulates heat shock protein (HSP)70, HSP90, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and epidermal growth factor (EGF) expression in the jejunal mucosa of black-boned chickens under circular heat stress.
Chemical communication between bacteria and cell-free gene expression systems within linear chains of emulsion droplets
Authors: Schwarz-Schilling M. , Aufinger L. , Mückl A. , Simmel F. C.
Published: January 2016

Using 1D arrangements of microdroplets to exchange chemical messages between cell-free systems and bacteria.
Antibiograms in five pipetting steps: precise dilution assays in sub-microliter volumes with a conventional pipette
Authors: Derzsi Ladislav , Kaminski Tomasz S. , Garstecki Piotr
Published: January 2016

A standalone microfluidic chip allows to carry out an antibiotic susceptibility test with an automatic pipette and with minimum manual labour.
Effects of molecular confinement and crowding on horseradish peroxidase kinetics using a nanofluidic gradient mixer
Authors: Wichert William R. A. , Han Donghoon , Bohn Paul W.
Published: January 2016

The effects of molecular confinement and crowding on enzyme kinetics were studied at length scales and under conditions similar to those found in biological cells.
Onset of particle trapping and release via acoustic bubbles
Authors: Chen Yun , Fang Zecong , Merritt Brett , Strack Dillon , Xu Jie , Lee Sungyon
Published: January 2016

We quantitatively analyze the secondary radiation force of an acoustic bubble for particle trapping and release in a flow.
A 18F-labeled dibenzocyclooctyne (DBCO) derivative for copper-free click labeling of biomolecules
Authors: Kettenbach K. , Ross T. L.
Published: January 2016

The new prosthetic group 18F-TEG-DBCO (dibenzocyclooctyne) can be prepared within a total reaction time of 60 min including purification with an overall yield (n.d.c.) of 34 ± 5%. Copper-free click cycloadditions with various biomolecule-azides resulted in very high RCYs under mild conditions.
Alkyl group-directed assembly of coordination polymers based on bis-(4-imidazol-1-yl-phenyl)-amine and their photocatalytic properties
Authors: Cheng Hong-Jian , Shen Ya-Li , Lu Yi-Feng , Ma Ji , Ji Hong-Wei , Yin Wen-Yu , Tang Xiao-Yan , Ma Yun-Sheng , Yuan Rong-Xin
Published: January 2016

Four new coordination polymers have been solvothermally synthesized to explore their diverse networks and photocatalytic properties.
A new Schiff base and its metal complex as colorimetric and fluorescent–colorimetric sensors for rapid detection of arginine
Authors: Ghorai Anupam , Mondal Jahangir , Patra Goutam K.
Published: January 2016

A new Schiff base (L) and its Pb2+-complex have been utilized for rapid detection of arginine in aqueous medium.Lexhibits an excellent selective colorimetric response whereas its Pb2+-complex exploits fluorescent-colorimetric response towards arginine with very low detection limits.
Change in synthetic strategy for MOF fabrication: from 2D non-porous to 3D porous architecture and its sorption and emission property studies
Authors: Tomar Kapil , Gupta Anoop K. , Gupta Mayank
Published: January 2016

A bipyrazole based novel six-connected porous metal–organic framework was synthesized and characterized by single crystal XRD. The compound has a large open space with 41% porosity in the crystal.
Ionic liquid supported organotin reagents to prepare molecular imaging and therapy agents
Authors: Rajerison Holisoa , Faye Djibril , Roumesy Aurélia , Louaisil Nicolas , Boeda Fabien , Faivre-Chauvet Alain , Gestin Jean-François , Legoupy Stéphanie
Published: January 2016

Efficiency of ionic liquid supported organotin reagents in halodemetalation reaction has been investigated.
An improved fluorogenic assay for SIRT1, SIRT2, and SIRT3
Authors: Chiang Ying-Ling , Lin Hening
Published: January 2016

We report an improved fluorogenic assay for SIRT1, SIRT2, and SIRT3 using a myristoyl peptide with a C-terminal aminocoumarin. The assay requires less substrate, yields high signal-to-background ratios andZ′ values, and thus will expedite high-throughput screening for modulators of SIRT1, SIRT2, and SIRT3.
Correction: Reaction mechanisms in ionic liquids: the kinetics and mechanism of the reaction of O,O-diethyl (2,4-dinitrophenyl) phosphate triester with secondary alicyclic amines
Authors: Pavez Paulina , Millán Daniela , Morales Javiera , Rojas Mabel , Céspedes Daniel , Santos José G.
Published: January 2016

Correction for ‘Reaction mechanisms in ionic liquids: the kinetics and mechanism of the reaction of O,O-diethyl (2,4-dinitrophenyl) phosphate triester with secondary alicyclic amines’ by Paulina Pavez et al., Org. Biomol. Chem., 2016, DOI: 10.1039/c5ob02128f.
Intercalation in two-dimensional transition metal chalcogenides
Authors: Jung Yeonwoong , Zhou Yu , Cha Judy J.
Published: January 2016

We review various exfoliation methods and extensive tuning of chemical and physical properties for 2D layered nanomaterials based on intercalation chemistry.
Controlled synthesis of highly stable zeolitic imidazolate framework-67 dodecahedra and their use towards the templated formation of a hollow Co3O4 catalyst for CO oxidation
Authors: Wu Hongyu , Qian Xukun , Zhu Haiping , Ma Songhua , Zhu Guangshan , Long Yi
Published: January 2016

Uniform dodecahedral Co3O4 hollow architectures can be prepared from ZIF-67 templates, which were synthesized by controlling the reactants mole ratio, shows excellent catalytic performance for CO oxidation.
Bisphenol analogues differently affect human islet polypeptide amyloid formation
Authors: Huang Lizi , Liao Mingyan , Yang Xin , Gong Hao , Ma Liang , Zhao Yudan , Huang Kun
Published: January 2016

Bisphenols (BPs) are widely used in the production of plastic material, misfolded human islet amyloid polypeptide (hIAPP) is a causal factor in diabetes. We demonstrated BPs analogues show different effects on hIAPP amyloid formation.
First-principles study of the electronic and magnetic properties of the spin-ladder iron oxide Sr3Fe2O5
Authors: Hao Xianfeng , Xu Yuanhui , Liu Shanshan , Wang Jing , Gao Faming
Published: January 2016

The electronic and magnetic properties in the novel spin-ladder iron oxide Sr3Fe2O5, containing the unusual square-planar coordination around high-spin Fe2+ cations, are investigated via first principles calculations.
Qualitative analysis of chiral alanine by UV-visible-shortwave near infrared diffuse reflectance spectroscopy combined with chemometrics
Authors: Li Xiangling , Xu Kailin , Li Hui , Yao Shun , Li Yanfang , Liang Bing
Published: January 2016

UV-vis-SWNIR DRS is firstly and successfully used to discriminate the chirality of compounds in powder with a good accuracy.
Raman spectroscopic study on the equilibrium of carbon dioxide in aqueous monoethanolamine
Authors: Wong M. K. , Shariff A. M. , Bustam M. A.
Published: January 2016

Raman spectra of aqueous monoethanolamine of various loadings showing peak evolvement for six major chemical species.
Diethylamine gas sensor using V2O5-decorated α-Fe2O3 nanorods as a sensing material
Authors: Zhang Haonan , Luo Yazi , Zhuo Ming , Yang Ting , Liang Jiaojiao , Zhang Ming , Ma Jianmin , Duan Huigao , Li Qiuhong
Published: January 2016

V2O5-decorated α-Fe2O3 composite nanorods were synthesized successfully by electrospinning and an environmentally-friendly soak-calcination method.
Stoichiometry detuned silicon carbide as an orange and white light band solid-state phosphor
Authors: Tai Hung-Yu , Chi Yu-Chieh , Cheng Chih-Hsien , Wang Po-Sheng , Wu Chih-I. , Lin Gong-Ru
Published: January 2016

Broadband orange and white light band solid-state phosphor using stoichiometry detuned a-SixC1−x films with buried SiC and Si nanocrystals are demonstrated for white lighting applications.
Amorphous carbon nanotubes as potent sorbents for removal of a phenolic derivative compound and arsenic: theoretical support of experimental findings
Authors: Bhowmick P. , Banerjee D. , Santra S. , Sen D. , Das B. , Chattopadhyay K. K.
Published: January 2016

Amorphous carbon nanotubes can be uses as potential material for water purification.
An investigation on the influence of support type for Ni catalysed vapour phase hydrogenation of aqueous levulinic acid to γ-valerolactone
Authors: Kumar Velisoju Vijay , Naresh Gutta , Sudhakar Medak , Anjaneyulu Chatla , Bhargava Suresh Kumar , Tardio James , Reddy Vanga Karnakar , Padmasri Aytam Hari , Venugopal Akula
Published: January 2016

Product distribution is dependent on the nature and strength of the acid site in the vapour phase hydrogenation of levulinic acid.
Room temperature ferromagnetic Zn0.98Co0.02O powders with improved visible-light photocatalysis
Authors: Zhang Huiyun , Hao Wei , Cao Yanqiang , Chang Xiaofeng , Xu Mingxiang , Guo Xinli , Shen Kai , Xiang Dinghan , Xu Qingyu
Published: January 2016

The realization of ferromagnetic diluted magnetic semiconductors requires the fine tuning of the energy levels of the band structure, which might have important applications in photocatalysis.
Oxidized nitinol substrate for interference enhanced Raman scattering of monolayer graphene
Authors: Abidi Irfan Haider , Cagang Aldrine Abenoja , Tyagi Abhishek , Riaz Muhammad Adil , Wu Ruizhe , Sun Qingping , Luo Zhengtang
Published: January 2016

We prepared a controllable and reproducible active NiTi alloy substrate with tunable thickness of titanium oxide capping layer for surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) of monolayer graphene using a facile oxidation method.
Metal-free, catalytic regioselective oxidative conversion of vinylarenes: a mild approach to phenylacetic acid derivatives
Authors: Kodumuri Srujana , Peraka Swamy , Mameda Naresh , Chevella Durgaiah , Banothu Rammurthy , Nama Narender
Published: January 2016

A first metal-free catalytic approach for the synthesis of phenylacetic acid derivatives from aromatic olefins is reported.
Selected organophosphorus compounds with biological activity. Applications in medicine
Authors: Demkowicz Sebastian , Rachon Janusz , Daśko Mateusz , Kozak Witold
Published: January 2016

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the latest applications of organophosphorus compounds (OPs) that exhibit biological activity.
Superior flame retardancy of epoxy resin by the combined addition of graphene nanosheets and DOPO
Authors: Liu Shan , Fang Zhengping , Yan Hongqiang , Wang Hao
Published: January 2016

In this paper, the thermal stability and fire retardant behavior of epoxy resin (ER) composites filled with graphene nanosheets (GNS) and 9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphaphenanthrene-10-oxide (DOPO) were investigated.
Palladium-catalyzed direct alkenylation of 4-hydroxy-2-pyridones
Authors: Katsina Tania , Anagnostaki Elissavet E. , Mitsa Foteini , Sarli Vasiliki , Zografos Alexandros L.
Published: January 2016

The first direct 3-alkenylation of N-substituted 4-hydroxy-2-pyridones with unactivated alkenes is reported through a palladium acetate catalyzed, oxidative coupling.
Metal–organic framework-based CoP/reduced graphene oxide: high-performance bifunctional electrocatalyst for overall water splitting
Authors: Jiao Long , Zhou Yu-Xiao , Jiang Hai-Long
Published: January 2016

A Co-based MOF/GO sandwich-type composite with a sheet-like shape was fabricated, and converted to porous CoP/rGO with a retained layered structure. CoP/rGO exhibits superb HER activity in acid solution, and can also be used as a bifunctional catalyst for water splitting in basic media.
Sub-5 nm lanthanide-doped lutetium oxyfluoride nanoprobes for ultrasensitive detection of prostate specific antigen
Authors: Xu Jin , Zhou Shanyong , Tu Datao , Zheng Wei , Huang Ping , Li Renfu , Chen Zhuo , Huang Mingdong , Chen Xueyuan
Published: January 2016

We demonstrate the successful use of sub-5 nm Lu6O5F8:Eu3+nano-bioprobes for the ultrasensitive detection of prostate specific antigen in patient serum samples with a limit of detection of 0.52 pg mL−1.
One-pot synthesis of a [c2]daisy-chain-containing hetero[4]rotaxane via a self-sorting strategy
Authors: Fu Xin , Zhang Qi , Rao Si-Jia , Qu Da-Hui , Tian He
Published: January 2016

Here we demonstrated a facile and efficient one-pot synthesis of a [c2]daisy-chain-containing hetero[4]rotaxane via a self-sorting strategy.
Evaluation of Brønsted acidity and proton topology in Zr- and Hf-based metal–organic frameworks using potentiometric acid–base titration
Authors: Klet Rachel C. , Liu Yangyang , Wang Timothy C. , Hupp Joseph T. , Farha Omar K.
Published: January 2016

Potentiometric acid–base titration is introduced as a method to evaluate pKa values (Brønsted acidity) of protons present in the nodes of water stable Zr6- and Hf6-based metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), including UiO-type MOFs, NU-1000, and MOF-808.
Hierarchical architecture of hybrid carbon-encapsulated hollow manganese oxide nanotubes with a porous-wall structure for high-performance electrochemical energy storage
Authors: An Geon-Hyoung , Sohn Jung Inn , Ahn Hyo-Jin
Published: January 2016

Uniquely designed hierarchical architecture of hybrid carbon-encapsulated porous hollow nanotubes with favorable routes and sites for Li ion insertion/extraction, resulting in improved high-rate performance and cycling stability.
Antibacterial activity, osteogenic and angiogenic behaviors of copper-bearing titanium synthesized by PIII&D
Authors: Yu Le , Jin Guodong , Ouyang Liping , Wang Donghui , Qiao Yuqin , Liu Xuanyong
Published: January 2016

Two types of Cu-bearing specimens with or without nanoparticles on Ti surface synthesized by PIII&D showed disparate biological responses.
A facile way of fabricating a flexible and conductive cotton fabric
Authors: Liu Sicong , Hu Mingjun , Yang Jun
Published: January 2016

A facile way of fabricating a highly conductive textile via electroless deposition in just three steps.
Flexible and robust hybrid paper with a large piezoelectric coefficient
Authors: Mahadeva Suresha K. , Walus Konrad , Stoeber Boris
Published: January 2016

A hybrid paper that is mechanically as strong as a commercial printing paper (breaking strength = 1.55 N mm−2) with a large piezoelectric coefficient (d33 = 37–45.7 ± 4.2 pC N−1) is developed, and using this paper, we demonstrate an accelerometer, with a sensitivity of 82.45 pC g−1.
Synthesis and properties of highly branched sulfonated poly(arylene ether)s with flexible alkylsulfonated side chains as proton exchange membranes
Authors: Liu Dong , Tao Dan , Ni Jiangpeng , Xiang Xiongzhi , Wang Lei , Xi Jingyu
Published: January 2016

A series of highly branched sulfonated poly(arylene ether)s with flexible alkylsulfonated side chains as proton exchange membranes were synthesized for the first time.
Structure and luminescence properties of Eu2+ doped LuxSr2−xSiNxO4−x phosphors evolved from chemical unit cosubstitution
Authors: Xia Zhiguo , Miao Shihai , Molokeev Maxim S. , Chen Mingyue , Liu Quanlin
Published: January 2016

The chemical unit cosubstitution of [Lu3+–N3−] for [Sr2+–O2−] in Sr2SiO4:Eu2+ has been studied, and photoluminescence tuning is realized.
Magneto-optical Kerr effect characterization of a uniform nanocrystalline Fe3O4 monolayer fabricated on a silicon substrate functionalized with catechol groups
Authors: Hojo Daisuke , Suzuki Kazuya Z. , Mizukami Shigemi , Adschiri Tadafumi
Published: January 2016

Magneto-optical devices can be fabricated by printing magnetic nanocrystals on a catechol-group-functionalized substrate; the process is macroscopically monolayer controlled.
The dangers of hazards
Authors: Berry Colin
Published: January 2016

Concerns about the quality and reproducibility of scientific papers have emphasised the uncertainty of observations in the biological sciences. Focussing on this problem in the types of science that often underlie regulations affecting population exposures has clear implications for regulatory studies. Recent comments on the IARC process of hazard identification in the field of carcinogenesis have identified problems in dealing with public information content and regulatory value of the Monograph system. What is the value of a system that does not clearly identify its methodology for defining a hazard and which does not provide realistic estimates of risk?
Lithium‐ion battery modelling for the energy management problem of microgrids
Authors: Tenfen Daniel , Finardi Erlon C. , Delinchant Benoit , Wurtz Frédéric
Published: January 2016

This study presents a mathematical model of lithium‐ion (Li‐ion) batteries in the energy management (EM) problem of a microgrid (MG). In this study, the authors develop a detailed model of Li‐ion batteries that considers the degradation cost associated with operation, controllable and uncontrollable charging ramps, other limits, and the operating characteristics provided by the manufactures. The Li‐ion battery degradation cost is analysed using different approaches and is compared with modelling without this cost, using a quadratic degradation cost, and using a piecewise degradation cost. Furthermore, this cost is analysed using a linear cost that takes the life expectancy based on the number of cycles of the battery into account. To analyse the proposed method and other modelling approaches, the authors examine the battery model in an EM problem in an MG. This MG, which can be connected to the main grid, also uses wind and photovoltaic as generation resources, in addition to a backup generator. The EM problem is modelled as a deterministic mixed‐integer linear (or quadratic) problem; the results of eleven different cases are used in the analysis of the proposed Li‐ion battery model for a 24 h planning horizon.
Broadband RCS reduction and gain enhancement microstrip antenna using shared aperture artificial composite material based on quasi‐fractal tree
Authors: Li Wen‐Qiang , Cao Xiang‐Yu , Gao Jun , Zhang Zhao , Cong Li‐li
Published: January 2016

A shared aperture artificial composite material (SA‐ACM) with broadband absorption and partial reflection feature is proposed. The SA‐ACM is composed of artificial composite material absorber (ACMA) and partial reflection surface (PRS), where the ACMA and PRS share the same aperture in the vertical dimensionality. The ACMA consists of quasi‐three‐dimensional fractal tree loaded with lumped resistances and metallic pattern on the bottom side of a dielectric slab, and the PRS consists of etched parallel slots in a metallic plane. The SA‐ACM as the role of superstrate is applied to the mircrostrip antenna. The Fabry–Perot resonator cavity constructed by the PRS and the metallic ground of the mircrostrip antenna can achieve high gain, while the ACMA can obtain the low radar cross section (RCS) characteristic by absorbing the incident wave. Simulation and experiment results demonstrate that the gain of the antenna with SA‐ACM is enhanced over 3 dB in the operation frequency band, and the backscattering RCS is obviously reduced by 10 dB in a wide frequency range.
Therapeutic Pneumoperitoneum: Relevant or Obsolete in 2015?
Authors: Berger Jonathan , Small Joe , Garza Rafael , Andrade Rafael , Podgaetz Eitan
Published: January 2016

Background Therapeutic pneumoperitoneum (TP) is one alternative to manage pleural space problems. We describe our technique and experience.

Materials and Methods Medical records of all patients who underwent TP from January 1, 2007, to January 1, 2015, were reviewed after Institutional Review Board approval. We report indication, preprocedure pulmonary function tests, volume of insufflated air, time to chest tube removal, and complications. We place a red rubber catheter into the peritoneal space through the diaphragm or a small abdominal incision, insufflate with room air, record volume (liters), intraperitoneal pressure (goal 9–10 mm Hg), and monitor vital signs, airway pressures, and urine output.

Results We performed TP in 32 patients. Follow-up was available for 31 patients. Indications were prevention of pleural space problems in bilobectomy patients (n = 11), following decortication for empyema (n = 11), prevention of prolonged air leak (n = 3), prevention of postresection space (n = 4), and spontaneous chylothorax (n = 2). TP was done postoperatively in three patients. Median air volume used was 3.5 L (3–6 L). Time to chest tube removal overall was 7.8 days (3–20 days) and to discharge 10.2 days (4–32 days). No patient developed respiratory failure, renal failure, or required evacuation of TP.

Conclusion TP is a simple, safe, and effective technique to manage pleural space problems. Proper patient selection and meticulous technique are imperative for the successful clinical application of TP. We believe that TP is an underutilized tool for the management of pleural space problems and merits wider application in thoracic surgical practice.
Engaging scientometrics in information systems
Authors: Hassan Nik R , Loebbecke Claudia
Published: January 2016

Although scientometrics is seeing increasing use in Information Systems (IS) research, in particular for evaluating research efforts and measuring scholarly influence; historically, scientometric IS studies are focused primarily on ranking authors, journals, or institutions. Notwithstanding the usefulness of ranking studies for evaluating the productivity of the IS field's formal communication channels and its scholars, the IS field has yet to exploit the full potential that scientometrics offers, especially towards its progress as a discipline. This study makes a contribution by raising the discourse surrounding the value of scientometric research in IS, and proposes a framework that uncovers the multi-dimensional bases for citation behaviour and its epistemological implications on the creation, transfer, and growth of IS knowledge. Having identified 112 empirical research evaluation studies in IS, we select 44 substantive scientometric IS studies for in-depth content analysis. The findings from this review allow us to map an engaging future in scientometric research, especially towards enhancing the IS field's conceptual and theoretical development.
New approaches to the ecological risk assessment of multiple stressors
Authors: Van den Brink Paul J. , Choung Catherine Bo , Landis Wayne , Mayer-Pinto Mariana , Pettigrove Vincent , Scanes Peter , Smith Rachael , Stauber Jenny
Published: January 2016

So as to assess how emerging science and new tools can be applied to study multiple stressors at a large (ecosystem) scale and to facilitate greater integration of approaches among different scientific disciplines, a workshop was organised on 10–12 September 2014 at the Sydney Institute of Marine Sciences, Sydney, Australia. The present paper discusses the limitations of the current risk-assessment approaches and how multiple stressors at large scales can be better evaluated in ecological risk assessments to inform the development of more efficient and preventive management policies based on adaptive management in the future. A future risk-assessment paradigm that overcomes these limitations is presented. This paradigm includes cultural and ecological protection goals, the development of ecological scenarios, the establishment of the relevant interactions among species, potential sources of stressors, their interactions and the development of cause–effect models. It is envisaged that this will be achievable through a greater integration of approaches among different scientific disciplines and through the application of new and emerging tools such as 'big data', ecological modelling and the incorporation of ecosystem service endpoints.
Genome-wide analysis of sperm DNA methylation from monozygotic twin bulls
Authors: Shojaei Saadi Habib A. , Fournier Éric , Vigneault Christian , Blondin Patrick , Bailey Janice , Robert Claude
Published: January 2016

Monozygotic (MZ) twins are of great interest to elucidate the contributions of pre- and postnatal environmental factors on epigenetics in the expression of complex traits and diseases. Progeny testing recently revealed that MZ twin bulls do not necessarily lead to identical genetic merit estimates (i.e. breeding values). Therefore, to explain differences in offspring productivity of MZ twin bulls despite their identical genetic backgrounds, we hypothesised that paternal sperm epigenomes vary between MZ twin bulls. In the present study, semen characteristics and global sperm DNA methylome were profiled for four pairs of MZ twin bulls. Some MZ twin pairs had divergent semen quality (sperm morphology, motility and viability). Comparative genome-wide DNA methylome surveys were performed using methyl-sensitive enrichment and microarray identification. Between 2% and 10% of all probes (400 000) were differentially methylated between MZ twin pairs. In addition, there were 580 loci differentially methylated across all pairs of MZ twins. Furthermore, enrichment analysis indicated a significant enrichment for fertility associated quantitative trait loci (P = 0.033). In conclusion, differences in the sperm epigenome may contribute to incongruous diverging performances of daughters sired by bulls that are MZ twins.
Critical roles of Gi/oproteins and phospholipase C-δ1 in the activation of receptor-operated TRPC4 channels
Authors: Thakur Dhananjay P. , Tian Jin-bin , Jeon Jaepyo , Xiong Jian , Huang Yu , Flockerzi Veit , Zhu Michael X.
Published: January 2016

Significance

Transient Receptor Potential Canonical 4 (TRPC4) forms nonselective cation channels implicated in multiple functions in the brain, heart, vasculature, and gastrointestinal tract. However, mechanisms that govern TRPC4 channel activation remain mysterious, severely hampering their functional elucidation under physiological and pathological conditions. Uniquely, TRPC4 is activated following ligand stimulation of G protein-coupled receptors that function through either Gq/11or Gi/osubgroups of G proteins. However, to what extent and how these two metabotropic pathways interact to regulate TRPC4 is unclear. Our study demonstrates the critical involvement of Gi/osignaling and phospholipase C activity in TRPC4 activation, providing detailed dissection of signaling steps of the phospholipase C pathway that contribute to channel gating. The mechanistic insights revealed should greatly facilitate evaluation and understanding of the physiological and pathological functions of these channels.
Lignin engineering in field-grown poplar trees affects the endosphere bacterial microbiome
Authors: Beckers Bram , Op De Beeck Michiel , Weyens Nele , Van Acker Rebecca , Van Montagu Marc , Boerjan Wout , Vangronsveld Jaco
Published: January 2016

Significance

The composition of bacterial populations in the human digestive tract is known to affect our well-being, to influence our ability to overcome diseases, and to be tightly linked with the host genotype. In contrast, the extent to which variation in the plant genotype affects the associated bacteria and, hence, plant health and productivity remains unknown, particularly of field-grown plants. Genetically modified poplars, down-regulated for cinnamoyl-CoA reductase, substantially influence the microbiome of the plant endosphere without perceptible impact on the rhizosphere microbiota. Unraveling the host genotype-dependent plant–microbe associations is crucial to comprehend the effects of engineering the plant metabolic pathway and possibly to exploit the eukaryote–prokaryote associations in phytoremediation applications, sustainable crop production, and the production of secondary metabolites.
Neglecting Human Ecology: The Common Element of Global Health Failures
Authors: Hanley Matthew
Published: January 2016

Attempts to control malaria, AIDS, and maternal mortality in Africa have been woefully inadequate. This has involved adopting an almost exclusively technical preventive approach in the context of AIDS even though emphasizing human behavior holds the most promise. But on the other hand, it has also involved abandoning highly effective technical measures, as in the case of malaria. This suggests that the failure, at root, is anthropological in nature. The common element, it is argued here, is the failure to place the human ecology resolutely above destructive ideologies. Sound public-health approaches have been spurned in favor of predetermined preventive approaches in the service of ideological aims rather than of man and the common good. This article examines the ideological forces that have ultimately driven global health policy, and proposes that a more humane anthropology would be beneficial.

Lay Summary: The scourges of malaria, AIDS, and maternal mortality have persisted in Africa, even though sensible and available means of addressing these epidemics, when stressed, have met with success. The reluctance to consistently emphasize the soundest public-health approaches—whether technical or behavioral in nature—indicate that global health policy has to a large extent been improperly concerned with advancing ideological agendas. The challenge we face today is not primarily technical but philosophical; the healing professions would perform a service by cultivating a higher view of man and an appreciation for objective moral truths that protect him.
Centreline defects in strips produced through thin slab casting and rolling
Authors: Bhattacharya D. , Poddar G. P. , Misra S.
Published: January 2016

Segregation in conventional slabs has been the topic of multiple researches; the centreline segregation in thin slabs has not been explicitly reported in published literature. However, a centreline band (defect) is invariably observed on macroetching high-manganese (>1 wt-%) strips from thin slab casting and rolling route of TATA Steel, Jamshedpur. A study was conducted to establish the exact nature of centreline defects and correlate with observation in the corresponding slab. Presence of second phases at the centreline due to heavy manganese enrichment was observed to be the source of defect band. In summary, this paper establishes a direct correlation between defects in hot-rolled strips and macrosegregation in thin slabs and highlights countermeasures taken to address the defect.
Waves, rings, and trails: The scenic landscape of axonal actin
Authors: Roy Subhojit
Published: January 2016

The goal of this article is to provide the reader a snapshot of recent studies on axonal actin—largely emerging from superresolution and live-imaging experiments—and place this new information in context with earlier studies.
Distinct α2 Na,K-ATPase membrane pools are differently involved in early skeletal muscle remodeling during disuse
Authors: Kravtsova Violetta V. , Petrov Alexey M. , Matchkov Vladimir V. , Bouzinova Elena V. , Vasiliev Alexander N. , Benziane Boubacar , Zefirov Andrey L. , Chibalin Alexander V. , Heiny Judith A. , Krivoi Igor I.
Published: January 2016

The Na,K-ATPase is essential for the contractile function of skeletal muscle, which expresses the α1 and α2 subunit isoforms of Na,K-ATPase. The α2 isozyme is predominant in adult skeletal muscles and makes a greater contribution in working compared with noncontracting muscles. Hindlimb suspension (HS) is a widely used model of muscle disuse that leads to progressive atrophy of postural skeletal muscles. This study examines the consequences of acute (6–12 h) HS on the functioning of the Na,K-ATPase α1 and α2 isozymes in rat soleus (disused) and diaphragm (contracting) muscles. Acute disuse dynamically and isoform-specifically regulates the electrogenic activity, protein, and mRNA content of Na,K-ATPase α2 isozyme in rat soleus muscle. Earlier disuse-induced remodeling events also include phospholemman phosphorylation as well as its increased abundance and association with α2 Na,K-ATPase. The loss of α2 Na,K-ATPase activity results in reduced electrogenic pump transport and depolarized resting membrane potential. The decreased α2 Na,K-ATPase activity is caused by a decrease in enzyme activity rather than by altered protein and mRNA content, localization in the sarcolemma, or functional interaction with the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. The loss of extrajunctional α2 Na,K-ATPase activity depends strongly on muscle use, and even the increased protein and mRNA content as well as enhanced α2 Na,K-ATPase abundance at this membrane region after 12 h of HS cannot counteract this sustained inhibition. In contrast, additional factors may regulate the subset of junctional α2 Na,K-ATPase pool that is able to recover during HS. Notably, acute, low-intensity muscle workload restores functioning of both α2 Na,K-ATPase pools. These results demonstrate that the α2 Na,K-ATPase in rat skeletal muscle is dynamically and acutely regulated by muscle use and provide the first evidence that the junctional and extrajunctional pools of the α2 Na,K-ATPase are regulated differently.