bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Recombinant Secondary Antibody Mimic as a Target-specific Signal Amplifier and an Antibody Immobilizer in Immunoassays
Authors: Min Junseon , Song Eun Kyung , Kim Hansol , Kim Kyoung Taek , Park Tae Joo , Kang Sebyung
Published: April 2016

We construct a novel recombinant secondary antibody mimic, GST-ABD, which can bind to the Fc regions of target-bound primary antibodies and acquire multiple HRPs simultaneously. We produce it in tenth of mg quantities with a bacterial overexpression system and simple purification procedures, significantly reducing the manufacturing cost and time without the use of animals. GST-ABD is effectively conjugated with 3 HRPs per molecule on an average and selectively bind to the Fc region of primary antibodies derived from three different species (mouse, rabbit, and rat). HRP-conjugated GST-ABD (HRP-GST-ABD) is successfully used as an alternative to secondary antibodies to amplify target-specific signals in both ELISA and immunohistochemistry regardless of the target molecules and origin of primary antibodies used. GST-ABD also successfully serves as an anchoring adaptor on the surface of GSH-coated plates for immobilizing antigen-capturing antibodies in an orientation-controlled manner for sandwich-type indirect ELISA through simple molecular recognition without any complicated chemical modification.
Real-time estimation of wildfire perimeters from curated crowdsourcing
Authors: Zhong Xu , Duckham Matt , Chong Derek , Tolhurst Kevin
Published: April 2016

Real-time information about the spatial extents of evolving natural disasters, such as wildfire or flood perimeters, can assist both emergency responders and the general public during an emergency. However, authoritative information sources can suffer from bottlenecks and delays, while user-generated social media data usually lacks the necessary structure and trustworthiness for reliable automated processing. This paper describes and evaluates an automated technique for real-time tracking of wildfire perimeters based on publicly available “curated” crowdsourced data about telephone calls to the emergency services. Our technique is based on established data mining tools and can be adjusted using a small number of intuitive parameters. Experiments using data from the devastating Black Saturday wildfires (2009) in Victoria, Australia, demonstrate the potential for the technique to detect and track wildfire perimeters automatically, in real time and with moderate accuracy. Accuracy can be further increased through combination with other authoritative demographic and environmental information, such as population density and dynamic wind fields. These results are also independently validated against data from the more recent 2014 Mickleham-Dalrymple wildfires.
Citrus unshiu peel extract alleviates cancer-induced weight loss in mice bearing CT-26 adenocarcinoma
Authors: Kim Aeyung , Im Minju , Gu Min Jung , Ma Jin Yeul
Published: April 2016

Skeletal muscle atrophy is a critical feature of cancer-induced cachexia, caused by pro-cachectic factors secreted by host cells and tumor cells. Therefore, blockade of these factors has considered a reasonable target for pharmacological and nutritional interventions to prevent skeletal muscle loss under cancer-induced cachexia. Citrus unshiu peel (CUP) has been used for treating the common cold, dyspepsia, and bronchial discomfort and reported to have pharmacological activities against inflammation, allergy, diabetes, and viral infection. In the present study, we observed that daily oral administration of water extract of CUP (WCUP) to male BALB/c mice bearing CT-26 adenocarcinoma remarkably reduced the losses in final body weight, carcass weight, gastrocnemius muscle, epididymal adipose tissue, and hemoglobin (Hb), compared with saline treatment. The levels of serum IL-6 and muscle-specific E3 ligases elevated by tumor burden were also considerably reduced by WCUP administration. In an in vitro experiment, WCUP efficiently suppressed the production of pro-cachectic cytokines in immune cells as well as cancer cells. In addition, WCUP treatment attenuated C2C12 skeletal muscle cell atrophy caused by cancer cells. These findings collectively suggest that WCUP is beneficial as a nutritional supplement for the management of cancer patients with severe weight loss.
Self-assembly of multilevel branched rutile-type TiO2 structures via oriented lateral and twin attachment
Authors: Jordan Vanja , Javornik Uroš , Plavec Janez , Podgornik Aleš , Rečnik Aleksander
Published: April 2016

Recent breakthrough of novel hierarchic materials, orchestrated through oriented attachment of crystal subunits, opened questions on what is the mechanism of their self-assembly. Using rutile-type TiO2, synthesized by hydrothermal reaction of Ti(IV)-butoxide in highly acidic aqueous medium, we uncovered the key processes controlling this nonclassical crystallization process. Formation of complex branched mesocrystals of rutile is accomplished by oriented assembly of precipitated fibers along the two low-energy planes,i.e.{110} and {101}, resulting in lateral attachment and twinning. Phase analysis of amorphous material enclosed in pockets between imperfectly assembled rutile fibers clearly shows harmonic ordering resembling that of the adjacent rutile structure. To our understanding this may be the first experimental evidence indicating the presence of electromagnetic force-fields that convey critical structural information through which oriented attachment of nanocrystals is made possible.
An Allosteric Cross-Talk Between the Activation Loop and the ATP Binding Site Regulates the Activation of Src Kinase
Authors: Pucheta-Martínez Encarna , Saladino Giorgio , Morando Maria Agnese , Martinez-Torrecuadrada Jorge , Lelli Moreno , Sutto Ludovico , D’Amelio Nicola , Gervasio Francesco Luigi
Published: April 2016

Phosphorylation of the activation loop is a fundamental step in the activation of most protein kinases. In the case of the Src tyrosine kinase, a prototypical kinase due to its role in cancer and its historic importance, phosphorylation of tyrosine 416 in the activation loop is known to rigidify the structure and contribute to the switch from the inactive to a fully active form. However, whether or not phosphorylation is able per-se to induce a fully active conformation, that efficiently binds ATP and phosphorylates the substrate, is less clear. Here we employ a combination of solution NMR and enhanced-sampling molecular dynamics simulations to fully map the effects of phosphorylation and ATP/ADP cofactor loading on the conformational landscape of Src tyrosine kinase. We find that both phosphorylation and cofactor binding are needed to induce a fully active conformation. What is more, we find a complex interplay between the A-loop and the hinge motion where the phosphorylation of the activation-loop has a significant allosteric effect on the dynamics of the C-lobe.
Low bone mass and changes in the osteocyte network in mice lacking autophagy in the osteoblast lineage
Authors: Piemontese Marilina , Onal Melda , Xiong Jinhu , Han Li , Thostenson Jeff D. , Almeida Maria , O’Brien Charles A.
Published: April 2016

Autophagy maintains cell function and homeostasis by recycling intracellular components. This process is also required for morphological changes associated with maturation of some cell types. Osteoblasts are bone forming cells some of which become embedded in bone and differentiate into osteocytes. This transformation includes development of long cellular projections and a reduction in endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria. We examined the role of autophagy in osteoblasts by deleting Atg7 using an Osterix1-Cre transgene, which causes recombination in osteoblast progenitors and their descendants. Mice lacking Atg7 in the entire osteoblast lineage had low bone mass and fractures associated with reduced numbers of osteoclasts and osteoblasts. Suppression of autophagy also reduced the amount of osteocyte cellular projections and led to retention of endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria in osteocytes. These results demonstrate that autophagy in osteoblasts contributes to skeletal homeostasis and to the morphological changes associated with osteocyte formation.
The effects of surface wettability on the fog and dew moisture harvesting performance on tubular surfaces
Authors: Seo Donghyun , Lee Junghun , Lee Choongyeop , Nam Youngsuk
Published: April 2016

The efficient water harvesting from air-laden moisture has been a subject of great interest to address world-wide water shortage issues. Recently, it has been shown that tailoring surface wettability can enhance the moisture harvesting performance. However, depending on the harvesting condition, a different conclusion has often been reported and it remains unclear what type of surface wettability would be desirable for the efficient water harvesting under the given condition. Here we compare the water harvesting performance of the surfaces with various wettability under two different harvesting conditions–dewing and fogging, and show that the different harvesting efficiency of each surface under these two conditions can be understood by considering the relative importance of the water capturing and removal efficiency of the surface. At fogging, the moisture harvesting performance is determined by the water removal efficiency of the surface with the oil-infused surfaces exhibiting the best performance. Meanwhile, at dewing, both the water capturing and removal efficiency are crucial to the harvesting performance. And well-wetting surfaces with a lower barrier to nucleation of condensates exhibit a better harvesting performance due to the increasing importance of the water capture efficiency over the water removal efficiency at dewing.
Ultrasmall all-optical plasmonic switch and its application to superresolution imaging
Authors: Wu Hsueh-Yu , Huang Yen-Ta , Shen Po-Ting , Lee Hsuan , Oketani Ryosuke , Yonemaru Yasuo , Yamanaka Masahito , Shoji Satoru , Lin Kung-Hsuan , Chang Chih-Wei , Kawata Satoshi , Fujita Katsumasa , Chu Shi-Wei
Published: April 2016

Because of their exceptional local-field enhancement and ultrasmall mode volume, plasmonic components can integrate photonics and electronics at nanoscale and active control of plasmons is the key. However, all-optical modulation of plasmonic response with nanometer mode volume and unity modulation depth is still lacking. Here we show that scattering from a plasmonic nanoparticle, whose volume is smaller than 0.001 μm3, can be optically switched off with less than 100 μW power. Over 80% modulation depth is observed and shows no degradation after repetitive switching. The spectral bandwidth approaches 100 nm. The underlying mechanism is suggested to be photothermal effects and the effective single-particle nonlinearity reaches nearly 10−9 m2/W, which is to our knowledge the largest record of metallic materials to date. As a novel application, the non-bleaching and unlimitedly switchable scattering is used to enhance optical resolution to λ/5 (λ/9 after deconvolution), with 100-fold less intensity requirement compared to similar superresolution techniques. Our work not only opens up a new field of ultrasmall all-optical control based on scattering from a single nanoparticle, but also facilitates superresolution imaging for long-term observation.
Magnetic coherent tunnel junctions with periodic grating barrier
Authors: Fang Henan , Xiao Mingwen , Rui Wenbin , Du Jun , Tao Zhikuo
Published: April 2016

A new spintronic theory has been developed for the magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) with single-crystal barrier. The barrier will be treated as a diffraction grating with intralayer periodicity, the diffracted waves of tunneling electrons thus contain strong coherence, both in charge and especially in spin. The theory can answer the two basic problems present in MgO-based MTJs: (1) Why does the tunneling magnetoresistance (TMR) oscillate with the barrier thickness? (2) Why is the TMR still far away from infinity when the two electrodes are both half-metallic? Other principal features of TMR can also be explained and reproduced by the present work. It also provides possible ways to modulate the oscillation of TMR and to enhance TMR so that it can tend to infinity. Within the theory, the barrier, as a periodic diffraction grating, can get rid of the confinement in width, it can vary from nanoscale to microscale. Based on those results, a future-generation MTJ is proposed where the three pieces can be fabricated separately and then assembled together, it is especially appropriate for the layered materials, e.g., MoS2 and graphite and most feasible for industries.
Comparative genetic characterization of Enteroaggregative Escherichia coli strains recovered from clinical and non-clinical settings
Authors: Zhang Rong , Gu Dan-xia , Huang Yong-lu , Chan Edward Wai-Chi , Chen Gong-Xiang , Chen Sheng
Published: April 2016

The origin of pathogenic EnteroaggregativeEscherichia coli(EAEC), a major causative agent of childhood diarrhea worldwide, remains ill-defined. The objective of this study was to determine the relative prevalence of EAEC in clinical and non-clinical sources and compare their genetic characteristics in order to identify strains that rarely and commonly cause human diarrhea. The virulence geneastAwas commonly detectable in both clinical and non-clinical EAEC, while clinical isolates, but not the non-clinical strains, were consistently found to harbor other virulence factors such asaap(32%), aatA(18%) andaggR(11%). MLST analysis revealed the extremely high diversity of EAEC ST types, which can be grouped into three categories including: (i) non-clinical EAEC that rarely cause human infections; (ii) virulent strains recoverable in diarrhea patients that are also commonly found in the non-clinical sources; (iii) organisms causing human infections but rarely recoverable in the non-clinical setting. In addition, the high resistance in these EAEC isolates in particular resistance to fluoroquinolones and cephalosporins raised a huge concern for clinical EAEC infection control. The data from this study suggests that EAEC strains were diversely distributed in non-clinical and clinical setting and some of the clinical isolates may originate from the non-clinical setting.
Global monsoon precipitation responses to large volcanic eruptions
Authors: Liu Fei , Chai Jing , Wang Bin , Liu Jian , Zhang Xiao , Wang Zhiyuan
Published: April 2016

Climate variation of global monsoon (GM) precipitation involves both internal feedback and external forcing. Here, we focus on strong volcanic forcing since large eruptions are known to be a dominant mechanism in natural climate change. It is not known whether large volcanoes erupted at different latitudes have distinctive effects on the monsoon in the Northern Hemisphere (NH) and the Southern Hemisphere (SH). We address this issue using a 1500-year volcanic sensitivity simulation by the Community Earth System Model version 1.0 (CESM1). Volcanoes are classified into three types based on their meridional aerosol distributions: NH volcanoes, SH volcanoes and equatorial volcanoes. Using the model simulation, we discover that the GM precipitation in one hemisphere is enhanced significantly by the remote volcanic forcing occurring in the other hemisphere. This remote volcanic forcing-induced intensification is mainly through circulation change rather than moisture content change. In addition, the NH volcanic eruptions are more efficient in reducing the NH monsoon precipitation than the equatorial ones, and so do the SH eruptions in weakening the SH monsoon, because the equatorial eruptions, despite reducing moisture content, have weaker effects in weakening the off-equatorial monsoon circulation than the subtropical-extratropical volcanoes do.
Impact of chirality on the photoinduced charge transfer in linked systems containing naproxen enantiomers
Authors: Khramtsova E. A. , Sosnovsky D. V. , Ageeva A. A. , Nuin E. , Marin M. L. , Purtov P. A. , Borisevich S. S. , Khursan S. L. , Roth H. D. , Miranda M. A. , Plyusnin V. F. , Leshina T. V.
Published: April 2016

The model reaction of photoinduced electron transfer in dyads has been used to compare the reactivity of anti-inflammatory drug, (S)-naproxen and its (R)-isomer.
Study of the inorganic substitution in a functionalized UiO-66 metal–organic framework
Authors: Yasin Alhassan Salman , Li Jiangtian , Wu Nianqiang , Musho Terence
Published: April 2016

A study of the band gap modulation in response to the inorganic substitution of the UiO-66 functionalized MOF.
The influence of droplet size on the stability, in vivo digestion, and oral bioavailability of vitamin E emulsions
Authors: Parthasarathi S. , Muthukumar S. P. , Anandharamakrishnan C.
Published: April 2016

Vitamin E (α-tocopherol) is a nutraceutical compound, which has been shown to possess potent antioxidant and anticancer activity.
Luminescent monometallic Cu(i) triphenylphosphine complexes based on methylated 5-trifluoromethyl-3-(2′-pyridyl)-1,2,4-triazole ligands
Authors: Chen Jing-Lin , Guo Zong-Hao , Luo Yan-Sheng , Qiu Lu , He Li-Hua , Liu Sui-Jun , Wen He-Rui , Wang Jin-Yun
Published: April 2016

The photoluminescence properties of Cu(i) complexes can be markedly improved by the N–H deprotonation of the 1,2,4-triazolyl ring.
Structural diversity in aroylthiourea copper complexes – formation and biological evaluation of [Cu(i)(μ-S)SCl]2, cis-Cu(ii)S2O2, trans-Cu(ii)S2O2and Cu(i)S3cores
Authors: Selvakumaran Nagamani , Sandhiya Lakshmanan , Bhuvanesh Nattamai S. P. , Senthilkumar Kittusamy , Karvembu Ramasamy
Published: April 2016

Four different copper complexes containing aroylthiourea ligands displayed good interaction with CT DNA and BSA and cytotoxicity.
High performance electromagnetic wave absorbers derived from PC/SAN blends containing multiwall carbon nanotubes and Fe3O4 decorated onto graphene oxide sheets
Authors: Pawar Shital Patangrao , Gandi Mounika , Bose Suryasarathi
Published: April 2016

A high performance electromagnetic wave absorber with high surface resistivity and enhanced attenuation constant was designed using uneven distribution of lossy materials in PC/SAN blends.
A competitive fluorescence quenching-based immunoassay for bisphenol A employing functionalized silica nanoparticles and nanogold
Authors: Zhao Wei , Ji Wei , Zhang Yuanfu , Du Lingyun , Wang Shuhao
Published: April 2016

A competitive fluorescence quenching-based immunoassay was constructed for bisphenol A, employing functionalized silica nanoparticles and nanogold.
Cloning, expression, characterization and application of protease produced by Bacillus cereus PMW8
Authors: Esakkiraj Palanichamy , Meleppat Balraj , Lakra Avinash Kant , Ayyanna Repally , Arul Venkatesan
Published: April 2016

Protease enzyme of Bacillus cereus PMW8 possessing antibiofilm activity was cloned and expressed in E.coli BL21(DE3) PLysS.
Chemical absorption of CO2 into an aqueous piperazine (PZ) solution: development and validation of a rigorous dynamic rate-based model
Authors: Norouzbahari Somayeh , Shahhosseini Shahrokh , Ghaemi Ahad
Published: April 2016

Carbon dioxide (CO2) chemical absorption into reactive solvents, is regarded as a proven technology to mitigate global warming aversive effects.
Enhancing antimicrobial properties of poly(vinylidene fluoride)/hexafluoropropylene copolymer membrane by electron beam induced grafting of N-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone and iodine immobilization
Authors: Shawky Ahmed Ibrahim , Megat Mohd Noor Megat Johari , Nasef Mohamed Mahmoud , Khayet Mohamed , Nallappan Madana , Ujang Zaini
Published: April 2016

NF membrane with excellent antimicrobial and antifouling properties by EB radiation induced grafting of N-vinylpyrrolidone followed by iodine immobilisation.
High-brightness solution-processed phosphorescent OLEDs with pyrimidine-based iridium(iii) complexes
Authors: Tong Bi-hai , Mei Qun-bo , Tian Ru-qiang , Yang Min , Hua Qing-fang , Shi Yu-jie , Ye Shang-hui
Published: April 2016

New complexes Ir(ppm)2(pic) and Ir(ppm)2(taz) emitted 555 and 532 nm light, respectively. Solution-processed organic light-emitting diodes based on Ir(ppm)2(taz) showed high-brightness of 125072 cd m−2, peak current efficiencies of 40.4 cd A−1.
Learning and studying strategies used by general chemistry students with different affective characteristics
Authors: Chan Julia Y. K. , Bauer Christopher F.
Published: April 2016

Students in general chemistry were partitioned into three groups by cluster analysis of six affective characteristics (emotional satisfaction, intellectual accessibility, chemistry self-concept, math self-concept, self-efficacy, and test anxiety). The at-home study strategies for exam preparation and in-class learning strategies differed among the three groups. Students in the high group (strongly positive affective characteristics) were more autonomous learners, reporting they understood the notes they took in lecture more frequently than the group with low (more negative) affective characteristics. The high group also relied less on tutors and teaching assistants for help when preparing for exams. Participating in explanatory behavior (with self or other students) was correlated positively with stronger exam performance, whereas rapt attention or assiduous note-taking in lecture was negatively correlated. The high and low affective groups were indistinct in their reports of amount of quality time spent studying, but did differ in their approach to using a practice exam as a resource.
3-D binder-free graphene foam as a cathode for high capacity Li–O2 batteries
Authors: Liu Chenjuan , Younesi Reza , Tai Cheuk-Wai , Valvo Mario , Edström Kristina , Gustafsson Torbjörn , Zhu Jiefang
Published: April 2016

To provide energy densities higher than those of conventional Li-ion batteries, a Li–O2 battery requires a cathode with high surface area to host large amounts of discharge product Li2O2.
Insertion of phenyl isothiocyanate into a P–P bond of a nickel-substituted bicyclo[1.1.0]tetraphosphabutane
Authors: Pelties Stefan , Ehlers Andreas W. , Wolf Robert
Published: April 2016

A nickel-substituted bicyclo[1.1.0]tetraphosphabutane is obtained by reacting an NHC-based cyclopentadienyl nickel(i) radical with P4. The CS and CN bonds of phenyl isothiocyanate insert into a P–P bond of the “P4 butterfly” skeleton, affording new complexes with a unique bicyclo[3.1.0]heterohexane framework.
The Rh(ii)-catalyzed formal N–S bond insertion reaction of aryldiazoacetates into N-phenyl-sulfenyl phthalimide
Authors: Song Zhuang , Wu Yizhou , Xin Tao , Jin Chao , Wen Xiaoan , Sun Hongbin , Xu Qing-Long
Published: April 2016

The Rh(ii)-catalyzed sulfur ylide [1,2]-rearrangement of carbenoids generated from aryldiazoacetates has been realized via N–S bond insertion under low catalyst loading.
An INS study of entrapped organic cations within the micropores of zeolite RTH
Authors: Lemishko Tetiana , Simancas Jorge , Hernández-Rodríguez Manuel , Jiménez-Ruiz Mónica , Sastre German , Rey Fernando
Published: April 2016

INS experiments and DFT calculations allow identifying rotational constraints of organic molecules occluded in zeolite micropores.
Ru4+ induced colossal magnetoimpedance in Ru doped perovskite manganite at room temperature
Authors: Singh Brajendra
Published: April 2016

Colossal magnetoimpedance, MI > +120%, was observed at room temperature for Ru = 0.3 composition in La0.7Ca0.3Mn1−xRuxO3 due to the presence of Ru4+, which otherwise was not significant for Ru = 0.1 and Ru = 0.2 compositions.
Molecular alignment in molecular fluids induced by coupling between density and thermal gradients
Authors: Daub Christopher D. , Tafjord Joakim , Kjelstrup Signe , Bedeaux Dick , Bresme Fernando
Published: April 2016

A confined apolar dumbbell fluid subject to both thermal gradients and an external force shows orientational preferences that depend on both contributions.
Magnetic properties with multiwavelets and DFT: the complete basis set limit achieved
Authors: Jensen Stig Rune , Flå Tor , Jonsson Dan , Monstad Rune Sørland , Ruud Kenneth , Frediani Luca
Published: April 2016

Multiwavelets are emerging as an attractive alternative to traditional basis sets such as Gaussian-type orbitals and plane waves.
Promoting effect of Ce on a Cu–Co–Al catalyst for the hydrogenolysis of glycerol to 1,2-propanediol
Authors: Cai Fufeng , Xiao Guomin
Published: April 2016

In this work, the Ce-promoted Cu–Co–Al catalyst exhibited high catalytic performance and stability (100 h) for the hydrogenolysis of glycerol to 1,2-propanediol.
CuO/cryptomelane catalyst for preferential oxidation of CO in the presence of H2: deactivation and regeneration
Authors: Davó-Quiñonero A. , Navlani-García M. , Lozano-Castelló D. , Bueno-López A.
Published: April 2016

Cryptomelane and CuO/cryptomelane catalysts have been tested in the preferential oxidation of CO in the presence of H2(CO-PROX reaction), paying special attention to deactivation and regeneration issues.
One-pot biocatalytic amine transaminase/acyl transferase cascade for aqueous formation of amides from aldehydes or ketones
Authors: Land Henrik , Hendil-Forssell Peter , Martinelle Mats , Berglund Per
Published: April 2016

A novel biocatalytic amine transaminase/acyl transferase cascade for the formation of amides in aqueous solution has been developed.
Biological Insights from Synthetic Biology
Authors: Garcia-Ojalvo Jordi , Khalil Ahmad S. , McCarthy John
Published: April 2016

Guest editors Jordi Garcia-Ojalvo, Ahmad S. Khalil and John McCarthy introduce the Biological Insights from Synthetic Biology themed issue of Integrative Biology.
FeOOH electrodeposited on Ag decorated ZnO nanorods for electrochemical energy storage
Authors: Yang Sainan , Li Yiju , Xu Tengfei , Li Yuguang , Fu Huiqun , Cheng Kui , Ye Ke , Yang Long , Cao Dianxue , Wang Guiling
Published: April 2016

In this work, an FeOOH/Ag/ZnO shell/core array electrode was prepared by electro-depositing FeOOH on Ag decorated ZnO nanorod arrays, and found to be suitable as an electrochemical energy storage material.
Synergistic toughening of nanocomposite double network hydrogels by physical adsorption and chemical bonding of polymer chains to inorganic nanospheres and nanorods: a comparative study
Authors: Gao Guorong , Xiao Ying , Wang Qiang , Fu Jun
Published: April 2016

This comparative study reveals a synergistic toughening of double network hydrogels by covalent bonding and physical adsorption of polymer chains to nanospheres or nanorods.
Exenatide loaded PLGA microspheres for long-acting antidiabetic therapy: preparation, characterization, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics
Authors: Wang Yutong , Sun Ting , Zhang Yue , Chaurasiya Birendra , Huang Liping , Liu Xi , Tu Jiasheng , Xiong Yerong , Sun Chunmeng
Published: April 2016

We herein fabricated the exenatide-loaded microspheres by a water in oil in oil (W/O/O) method, which presented great effect on glycemic control with low initial burst release and reduced risk of gastrointestinal intolerance and hypoglycemia.
Efficient removal of Cd(ii) ions from aqueous solutions via visible capturing
Authors: Liu Changkun , Liang Xiaoyan , Liu Ji'an , Liu Yuying , Luo Jingjing , Zhu Hong
Published: April 2016

A multi-functional cotton fiber shows great potential for the early warning and efficient removal of heavy metal ions.
Facile one-pot scalable strategy to engineer biocidal silver nanocluster assembly on thiolated PVDF membranes for water purification
Authors: Sharma Maya , Padmavathy Nagarajan , Remanan Sanjay , Madras Giridhar , Bose Suryasarathi
Published: April 2016

Biofouling, due to bacterial growth and colonization, is a significant obstacle in water treatment that severely affects the membrane performance.
Visible-light-driven oxidation of cyclohexane using Cr-supported mesoporous catalysts prepared via phenyl-functionalized mesoporous silica
Authors: Wang Hui , Zhang Ying , Guo Yanying , Zhang Limei , Han Yang , Zhao Xiaoxia
Published: April 2016

A series of Cr-supported mesoporous silica (Cr-PFMS) photocatalysts were prepared via phenyl-functionalized mesoporous silica (PFMS) by two steps.
A simple photoluminescent strategy for pH and amine vapors detection based on Eu(iii)-complex functionalized material
Authors: Zeng Zhichao , Wen Jia , Yan Hui , Liu Zonglun , Xu Yongqian , Li Hongjuan , Zhong Chongmin , Liu Fengyu , Sun Shiguo
Published: April 2016

A simple luminescence sensing strategy has been designed for pH and amine vapors detection after loaded luminescent compound Eu(DBM)3Phen (LMOF-1), Eu(DBM)3BPY (LMOF-2) on portable matrices such as neutral silica plate and normal filter paper.
Alkylguanidinium based ionic liquids in a screening study for the removal of anionic pollutants from aqueous solution
Authors: Bouchal Roza , Prelot Bénédicte , Hesemann Peter
Published: April 2016

Monoalkylguanidinium bis-trifluoromethane sulfonimides are highly efficient adsorbents for the sequestration of organic anions from aqueous solutions and display strongly enhanced adsorption properties compared to conventional imidazolium ILs.
One step synthesis of silane-capped copper clusters as a sensitive optical probe and efficient catalyst for reversible color switching
Authors: Zhou Shaochen , Li Yingxuan , Wang Fu , Wang Chuanyi
Published: April 2016

Luminescent silane-functionalized copper clusters are developed as a highly efficient catalyst to build up a recyclable and photoreversible color switching system based on the redox reactions of methylene blue.
Selective and sensitive detection of picric acid based on a water-soluble fluorescent probe
Authors: Liang Haiqin , Yao Zhiyi , Ge Wenqi , Qiao Yadong , Zhang Li , Cao Zhong , Wu Hai-Chen
Published: April 2016

A pyrene-based probe has been applied for the fluorescent detection of picric acid in aqueous media and on test strips.
Oxysterols from an octocoral of the genus Gorgonia from the eastern Pacific of Panama
Authors: Cardoso-Martínez Faviola , de la Rosa José M. , Díaz-Marrero Ana R. , Darias José , D'Croz Luis , Jiménez-Antón M. Dolores , Corral M. Jesús , García Rocío , Alunda José M. , Cueto Mercedes
Published: April 2016

Eighteen new oxysterols were isolated from a previously undescribed octocoral of the genusGorgonia. Antimicrobial and antileishmanial properties of these compounds have been evaluated.
Carbon nanotube and hydrogen production from waste plastic gasification over Ni/Al–SBA-15 catalysts: effect of aluminum content
Authors: Yang Ren-Xuan , Chuang Kui-Hao , Wey Ming-Yen
Published: April 2016

The acidic sites of Ni/Al–SBA-15 catalysts strikingly promoted the activity of carbon nanotubes and H2 production in waste plastic gasification.
Synthesis and characterization of Co3O4 nanocube-doped polyaniline nanocomposites with enhanced methyl orange adsorption from aqueous solution
Authors: Shahabuddin Syed , Sarih Norazilawati Muhamad , Mohamad Sharifah , Atika Baharin Siti Nor
Published: April 2016

Co3O4 nanocube polyaniline nanocomposites have been successfully synthesised. They show enhanced surface properties and a greater adsorption capacity to remove MO efficiently within a short duration of time.
Synthesis and characterization of hyperbranched associative polyacrylamide
Authors: Pu Wanfen , Du Daijun , Liu Rui , Gu Jiongyi , Li Kewei , Zhang Yangyang , Liu Penggang
Published: April 2016

HDPAM was synthesized by water free-radical copolymerization based on functional hyperbranched polyamide-modified ultrafine silica as functional monomer.
Doping core–shell nanoparticles into a solution-processed electron transporting layer for polymer light-emitting diodes
Authors: Peng Jinghong , Tang Fu , Xu Xinjun , Jia Manping , Li Lidong
Published: April 2016

Core–shell gold nanoparticles have been doped into the solution-processed electron-transporting layer of PLED to obtain enhanced EL performance.
Novel bipolar fluorescent polymers bearing N+P–O− resonance structures for fluorescent–phosphorescent (F–P) hybrid white polymer light-emitting diodes (WPLEDs)
Authors: Zhao Qing-Hua , Fan Zhu-Xin , Wang Pei-Pei , Chu Zhi-Wei , Su Shi-Jian
Published: April 2016

Two novel bipolar fluorescent polymers, PPOPAF and PPOCzF, were developed as blue emitters and hosts for an orange-red phosphor to realize fluorescent–phosphorescent (F–P) hybrid white polymer light-emitting diodes (WPLEDs).
Au-deposited porous single-crystalline ZnO nanoplates for gas sensing detection of total volatile organic compounds
Authors: Han Xue , Sun Yu , Feng Zhenyu , Zhang Guochen , Chen Zichun , Zhan Jinhua
Published: April 2016

Au-functionalized porous single-crystalline ZnO nanoplates via photodeposition for gas sensing detection of total volatile organic compounds.
Steric control of redox events in organo-uranium chemistry: synthesis and characterisation of U(v) oxo and nitrido complexes
Authors: Tsoureas Nikolaos , Kilpatrick Alexander F. R. , Inman Christopher J. , Cloke F. Geoffrey N.
Published: April 2016

Controlling the steric environment in U(η8-C8H6(1,4-SiR3)2)(η5-Cp*)] enables selective formation of either mononuclear U(v) or dinuclear U(iv) oxo and nitrido complexes.
Solar fuel photoanodes prepared by inkjet printing of copper vanadates
Authors: Newhouse P. F. , Boyd D. A. , Shinde A. , Guevarra D. , Zhou L. , Soedarmadji E. , Li G. , Neaton J. B. , Gregoire J. M.
Published: April 2016

Widespread deployment of solar fuel generators requires the development of efficient and scalable functional materials, especially for photoelectrocatalysis of the oxygen evolution reaction.
Enhanced methanol oxidation and CO tolerance using oxygen-passivated molybdenum phosphide/carbon supported Pt catalysts
Authors: Duan Yaqiang , Sun Ye , Wang Lei , Dai Ying , Chen Baibing , Pan Siyu , Zou Jinlong
Published: April 2016

To improve the sluggish kinetics of the methanol oxidation reaction (MOR), one efficient way is to improve the properties of catalyst supports to enhance the activity and durability of Pt-based catalysts.
Hollow nanoporous covalent triazine frameworks via acid vapor-assisted solid phase synthesis for enhanced visible light photoactivity
Authors: Huang Wei , Wang Zi Jun , Ma Beatriz Chiyin , Ghasimi Saman , Gehrig Dominik , Laquai Frédéric , Landfester Katharina , Zhang Kai A. I.
Published: April 2016

Herein, we report a novel trifluoromethanesulfonic acid vapor-assisted solid phase synthetic method to construct nanoporous covalent triazine frameworks with highly ordered hollow interconnected pores under mild reaction conditions.
Carbon-coated hollow mesoporous FeP microcubes: an efficient and stable electrocatalyst for hydrogen evolution
Authors: Zhu Xiaohua , Liu Mengjia , Liu Yang , Chen Ruwen , Nie Zhou , Li Jinghong , Yao Shouzhuo
Published: April 2016

Carbon coated hollow mesoporous FeP microcubes derived from Prussian blue were superior in catalytic activity and durability toward electrochemical hydrogen evolution with an overpotential of 115 mV to drive 10 mA cm−2.
Facile synthesis of hierarchical porous Co3O4 nanoboxes as efficient cathode catalysts for Li–O2 batteries
Authors: Zhang Jian , Lyu Zhiyang , Zhang Feng , Wang Liangjun , Xiao Peng , Yuan Kaidi , Lai Min , Chen Wei
Published: April 2016

A hierarchical porous Co3O4 nanobox catalyst with an extremely large surface area is developed via an ion-exchange process and used as efficient cathode catalyst for Li–O2 batteries.
Tri-layered graphite foil for electrochemical capacitors
Authors: Song Yu , Liu Tian-Yu , Xu Guo-Liang , Feng Dong-Yang , Yao Bin , Kou Tian-Yi , Liu Xiao-Xia , Li Yat
Published: April 2016

This work demonstrates an electrochemical method combining ion-intercalation and oxidation to synthesize tri-layered graphite foils with superior capacitive performance.
Preparation of a Sn@SnO2@C@MoS2 composite as a high-performance anode material for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Huang Youguo , Pan Qichang , Wang Hongqiang , Ji Cheng , Wu Xianming , He Zeqiang , Li Qingyu
Published: April 2016

Sn@SnO2@C nanosheets decorated with MoS2 are prepared via a facile ball milling and hydrothermal method, and the Sn@SnO2@C@MoS2 composite shows high capacity and long-term cycling stability when used as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries.
Monolithic-structured ternary hydroxides as freestanding bifunctional electrocatalysts for overall water splitting
Authors: Zhu Xiaolin , Tang Cheng , Wang Hao-Fan , Li Bo-Quan , Zhang Qiang , Li Chunyi , Yang Chaohe , Wei Fei
Published: April 2016

Fully exposed ternary hydroxides electrodeposited on Ni foam (NiCoFe/NF) exhibited superb oxygen evolution and hydrogen evolution reactivity in alkaline media, and this monolithic-structured electrode further enabled a high-efficiency water electrolyzer.
Porosity-engineered carbons for supercapacitive energy storage using conjugated microporous polymer precursors
Authors: Lee Jet-Sing M. , Wu Tzu-Ho , Alston Ben M. , Briggs Michael E. , Hasell Tom , Hu Chi-Chang , Cooper Andrew I.
Published: April 2016

Direct carbonisation of conjugated microporous polymers (CMPs) yields porosity-engineered carbons, opening up a new source of electroactive materials.
Surface engineering of PbS quantum dot sensitized solar cells with a conversion efficiency exceeding 7%
Authors: Jiao Shuang , Wang Jin , Shen Qing , Li Yan , Zhong Xinhua
Published: April 2016

A CdS passivation layer was introduced to a PbS QD surface to synthesize PbS/CdS core/shell QDs through an ion exchange procedure, achieving a record PCE of 7.19% for PbS-based liquid-junction quantum dot sensitized solar cells.
Fabrication of mixed-matrix membrane containing metal–organic framework composite with task-specific ionic liquid for efficient CO2 separation
Authors: Ma Jing , Ying Yunpan , Guo Xiangyu , Huang Hongliang , Liu Dahuan , Zhong Chongli
Published: April 2016

Gas permeability and selectivity for CO2/N2 separation were improved simultaneously in mixed-matrix membranes formed by a nanoporous metal–organic framework with a task-specific ionic liquid in PIM-1.
Simple synthesis of amino acid-functionalized hydrophilic upconversion nanoparticles capped with both carboxyl and amino groups for bimodal imaging
Authors: Han Gui-Mei , Jiang Hong-Xin , Huo Yan-Fang , Kong De-Ming
Published: April 2016

Amino acid-functionalized hydrophilic upconversion nanoparticles capped with both carboxyl and amino groups were one-step synthesized for bimodal imaging.
Highly conductive nitrogen-doped ultrananocrystalline diamond films with enhanced field emission properties: triethylamine as a new nitrogen source
Authors: Yuan Wen , Fang Liping , Feng Zhen , Chen Zexiang , Wen Jianwu , Xiong Ying , Wang Bing
Published: April 2016

In this study, triethylamine (TEA) dissolved in the methanol was used as a liquid nitrogen source to synthesize nitrogen-doped ultrananocrystalline diamond (N-UNCD) films on silicon substrates via microwave plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (MPCVD).
Wide bandgap dithienobenzodithiophene-based π-conjugated polymers consisting of fluorinated benzotriazole and benzothiadiazole for polymer solar cells
Authors: Zhong Wenkai , Xiao Jingyang , Sun Sheng , Jiang Xiao-Fang , Lan Linfeng , Ying Lei , Yang Wei , Yip Hin-Lap , Huang Fei , Cao Yong
Published: April 2016

Two wide bandgap conjugated polymers were constructed, exhibiting PCEs up to 7.45% and VOC's over 0.95 V.
Columnar liquid-crystalline assemblies of X-shaped pyrene–oligothiophene conjugates: photoconductivities and mechanochromic functions
Authors: Gan Kian Ping , Yoshio Masafumi , Kato Takashi
Published: April 2016

The self-assembly of X-shaped pyrene–oligothiophene conjugated molecules results in the formation of columnar liquid-crystalline structures that exhibit hole carrier transport properties and shear-induced phase transition accompanied by the luminescent colour change.
Distinct phosphorescence enhancement of red-emitting iridium(iii) complexes with formyl-functionalized phenylpyridine ligands
Authors: Cao Sizhen , Hao Lin , Lai Wen-Yong , Zhang Hao , Yu Zhou , Zhang Xinwen , Liu Xu , Huang Wei
Published: April 2016

Distinct phosphorescence enhancement was demonstrated from a red-emitting Ir(iii) complex (Ir-CHO) with formyl-functionalized phenylpyridine ligands.
Chiral binaphthyl-linked BODIPY analogues: synthesis and spectroscopic properties
Authors: Wu Yanping , Wang Sisi , Li Zhifang , Shen Zhen , Lu Hua
Published: April 2016

A chiral binaphthyl linked at the periphery and boron atom to form chiral BODIPY analogues has been reported.
CuS nanotrough-networks for highly stable transparent conducting electrodes
Authors: Zhang Xiaojia , Guo Wenxi , Gao Guoyun , Que Miaoling , Pan Caofeng , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: April 2016

Here, we present a newly designed, highly flexible transparent conductive electrode based on a copper sulfide nanotrough network (CuS NN) film.
Ca6La4(SiO4)2(PO4)4O2:Eu2+: a novel apatite green-emitting phosphor for near-ultraviolet excited w-LEDs
Authors: Xia Yufei , Liu Yan-gai , Huang Zhaohui , Fang Minghao , Molokeev Maxim S. , Mei LeFu
Published: April 2016

A novel green phosphor Ca6La4(SiO4)2(PO4)4O2:Eu2+ that fabricated with commercial blue and red phosphor coating on a n-UV chip.
ER-luminal thiol/selenol-mediated regulation of Ca2+ signalling
Authors: Appenzeller-Herzog Christian , Simmen Thomas
Published: April 2016

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is the main cellular Ca2+ storage unit. Among other signalling outputs, the ER can release Ca2+ ions, which can, for instance, communicate the status of ER protein folding to the cytosol and to other organelles, in particular the mitochondria. As a consequence, ER Ca2+ flux can alter the apposition of the ER with mitochondria, influence mitochondrial ATP production or trigger apoptosis. All aspects of ER Ca2+ flux have emerged as processes that are intimately controlled by intracellular redox conditions. In this review, we focus on ER-luminal redox-driven regulation of Ca2+ flux. This involves the direct reduction of disulfides within ER Ca2+ handling proteins themselves, but also the regulated interaction of ER chaperones and oxidoreductases such as calnexin or ERp57 with them. Well-characterized examples are the activating interactions of Ero1α with inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (IP3Rs) or of selenoprotein N (SEPN1) with sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ transport ATPase 2 (SERCA2). The future discovery of novel ER-luminal modulators of Ca2+ handling proteins is likely. Based on the currently available information, we describe how the variable ER redox conditions govern Ca2+ flux from the ER.
Mass spectrometry and its evolving role in assessing tissue specific steroid metabolism
Authors: Andrew Ruth , Homer Natalie Z.M.
Published: April 2016

Glucocorticoid hormones play vital roles in regulating diverse biological processes in health and disease. Tissue levels are regulated by enzymes which activate and inactivate hormones. The enzyme, 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11βHSD1), in particular, has been identified as a potential drug target; inhibiting this enzyme attenuates glucocorticoid action by lowering local levels of active hormone. A variety of mass spectrometric approaches have been developed to characterize this enzyme in vivo. Endogenous glucocorticoids and their metabolites can be profiled in urine by GC–MS and circulating steroids are now more commonly quantified by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Tracer dilution studies have allowed rates of generation of glucocorticoids by the enzyme to be distinguished from hormone generated directly by the adrenal glands and, in combination with arterio-venous (AV) sampling, rates of production by specific tissues have been quantified. This has allowed the contribution of liver, adipose, muscle and brain to cortisol production in metabolic disease and hence prioritized drug targets. Most recently MS imaging in combination with on-tissue derivatization has been developed to profile oxo-steroids in tissue sections, allowing molecular maps to be generated across complex tissues, where regional functions are important. The review provides a synopsis of how measurement of steroids by MS has evolved with technological advances and this has provided insight into the dynamic turnover of glucocorticoids in vivo, highlighting the milestones that have advanced the field and identifying the remaining challenges for researchers, in terms of analytical chemistry and endocrine physiology and biochemistry.
Receptor activity-modifying proteins; multifunctional G protein-coupled receptor accessory proteins
Authors: Hay Debbie L. , Walker Christopher S. , Gingell Joseph J. , Ladds Graham , Reynolds Christopher A. , Poyner David R.
Published: April 2016

Receptor activity-modifying proteins (RAMPs) are single pass membrane proteins initially identified by their ability to determine the pharmacology of the calcitonin receptor-like receptor (CLR), a family B G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR). It is now known that RAMPs can interact with a much wider range of GPCRs. This review considers recent developments on the structure of the complexes formed between the extracellular domains (ECDs) of CLR and RAMP1 or RAMP2 as these provide insights as to how the RAMPs direct ligand binding. The range of RAMP interactions is also considered; RAMPs can interact with numerous family B GPCRs as well as examples of family A and family C GPCRs. They influence receptor expression at the cell surface, trafficking, ligand binding and G protein coupling. The GPCR–RAMP interface offers opportunities for drug targeting, illustrated by examples of drugs developed for migraine.
Commercialization of cellular immunotherapies for cancer
Authors: Walker Anthony , Johnson Robert
Published: April 2016

Successful commercialization of a cell therapy requires more than proving safety and efficacy to the regulators. The inherent complexity of cellular products delivers particular manufacturing, logistical and reimbursement hurdles that threaten commercial viability for any therapy with a less than spectacular clinical profile that truly changes the standard of care. This is particularly acute for autologous cell therapies where patients receive bespoke treatments manufactured from a sample of their own cells and where economies of scale, which play an important role in containing the production costs for small molecule and antibody therapeutics, are highly limited. Nevertheless, the promise of ‘game-changing’ efficacy, as exemplified by very high levels of complete responses in refractory haematological malignancies, has attracted capital investments on a vast scale, and the attendant pace of technology development provides promising indicators for future clinical and commercial success.
Role of the colony-stimulating factor (CSF)/CSF-1 receptor axis in cancer
Authors: Achkova Daniela , Maher John
Published: April 2016

Cancer cells employ a variety of mechanisms to evade apoptosis and senescence. Pre-eminent among these is the aberrant co-expression of growth factors and their ligands, forming an autocrine growth loop that promotes tumour formation and progression. One growth loop whose transforming potential has been repeatedly demonstrated is the CSF-1/CSF-1R axis. Expression of CSF-1 and/or CSF-1R has been documented in a number of human malignancies, including breast, prostate and ovarian cancer and classical Hodgkin's lymphoma (cHL). This review summarizes the large body of work undertaken to study the role of this cytokine receptor system in malignant transformation. These studies have attributed a key role to the CSF-1/CSF-1R axis in supporting tumour cell survival, proliferation and enhanced motility. Moreover, increasing evidence implicates paracrine interactions between CSF-1 and its receptor in defining a tumour-permissive and immunosuppressive tumour-associated stroma. Against this background, we briefly consider the prospects for therapeutic targeting of this system in malignant disease.