bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exceptional surface and bulk electronic structures in a topological insulator, Bi2Se3
Authors: Biswas Deepnarayan , Thakur Sangeeta , Balakrishnan Geetha , Maiti Kalobaran
Published: December 2015

The outstanding problem in topological insulators is the bulk metallicity underneath topologically ordered surface states and the appearance of Dirac point far away from the Fermi energy. Enormous efforts are being devoted to get the Dirac point at the Fermi level via exposure to foreign materials so that these materials can be used in technology and realize novel fundamental physics. Ironically, the conclusion of bulk metallicity in the electronic structure is essentially based on the angle resolved photoemission spectroscopy, a highly surface sensitive technique. Here, we employed state-of-the-art hard x-ray photoemission spectroscopy with judiciously chosen experiment geometry to delineate the bulk electronic structure of a topological insulator and a potential thermoelectric material, Bi2Se3. The results exhibit signature of insulating bulk electronic structure with tiny intensities at "Equation missing" akin to defect/vacancy induced doped states in the semiconductors. The core level spectra exhibit intense plasmon peak associated to core level excitations manifesting the signature of coupling of electrons to the collective excitations, a possible case of plasmon-phonon coupling. In addition, a new loss feature appear in the core level spectra indicating presence of additional collective excitations in the system.
Detection of airborne viruses using electro-aerodynamic deposition and a field-effect transistor
Authors: Park Kyu-Tae , Cho Dong-Guk , Park Ji-Woon , Hong Seunghun , Hwang Jungho
Published: December 2015

We report a technique for the detection of aerosolized viruses. Conventional field-effect-transistor (FET)-based techniques use solution-based processes, thus require antibody binding to the detection region of the FET prior to the supply of the analyte. With the method described here, virus–antibody-bound particles are delivered to the FET during detection; therefore, neither a pre-treatment antibody binding step on the FET channel nor washing process for virus–antibody-binding are necessary. Our method is based on the concept that virus–antibody-bound particles are larger than the virus or antibody alone and thus have larger charge numbers following aerosol charging. When these particles are charged by negative ions and electro-aerodynamically deposited on a substrate, there exists a location on the substrate where neither lone virus nor antibody particles land and where only virus–antibody-bound particles are deposited. If this location coincides with the channel of the FET, the resulting variation in the current can be used to indicate the existence of a virus. By aerosolizing a mixed solution of the virus and the antibody, only the virus–antibody-bound particles were transported to the swCNT-FET and the electric current in the swCNT-FET decreased to 30% of that measured with no deposited particles.
The hematopoietic regulator, ELF-1, enhances the transcriptional response to Interferon-β of the OAS1 anti-viral gene
Authors: Larsen Steven , Kawamoto Shota , Tanuma Sei-ichi , Uchiumi Fumiaki
Published: December 2015

Interferon (IFN) therapy is effective in treating cancers, haematological and virus induced diseases. The classical Jak/Stat pathway of IFN signal transduction leading to changes in transcriptional activity is well established but alone does not explain the whole spectrum of cellular responses to IFN. Gene promoters contain cis-acting sequences that allow precise and contextual binding of transcription factors, which control gene expression. Using the transcriptional response to IFN as a starting point we report a high frequency of tandem GGAA motifs in the proximal promoters of Interferon stimulated genes, suggesting a key regulatory action. Utilizing the well-characterized anti-viral gene, OAS1, as an example Interferon stimulated gene promoter containing such a duplicated GGAA motif, we have demonstrated a regulatory role of this promoter in response to IFN by mutation analysis. Furthermore, we identified ELF-1 as a direct binding factor at this motif. Additionally, recruitment of RB1 and SP1 factors to the promoter following IFN stimulation is shown. ELF-1 overexpression enhanced and knockdown of ELF-1 inhibited full activation of OAS1 by IFN stimulation. Collectively, ELF-1 binds an important duplicated GGAA cis-acting element at the OAS1 promoter and in cooperation with RB1 and SP1 recruitment contributes to regulation in response to IFN stimulation.
Superluminal and stopped light due to mode coupling in confined hyperbolic metamaterial waveguides
Authors: Neira Andres D. , Wurtz Gregory A. , Zayats Anatoly V.
Published: December 2015

Anisotropic metamaterials with hyperbolic dispersion can be used to design waveguides with unusual properties. We show that, in contrast to planar waveguides, geometric confinement leads to coupling of ordinary (forward) and extraordinary (backward) modes and formation of hybrid waveguided modes, which near the crossing point may exhibit slow, stopped or superluminal behavior accompanied by very strong group velocity dispersion. These modes can be used for designing stopped-light nanolasers for nanophotonic applications and dispersion-facilitated signal reshaping in telecom applications.
A low cost, green method to synthesize GaN nanowires
Authors: Zhao Jun-Wei , Zhang Yue-Fei , Li Yong-He , Su Chao-hua , Song Xue-Mei , Yan Hui , Wang Ru-Zhi
Published: December 2015

The synthesis of gallium nitride nanowires (GaN NWs) by plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) are successfully demonstrated in this work. The simple and green synthesis route is to introduce gallium oxide (Ga2O3) and nitrogen (N2) for the growth of nanowires. The prepared GaN nanowires have a single crystalline wurtzite structure, which the length of some nanowires is up to 20 μm, with a maximum diameter about 140 nm. The morphology and quantity of the nanowires can be modulated by the growth substrate and process parameters. In addition, the photoluminescence and field emission properties of the prepared GaN nanowires have been investigated, which were found to be largely affected by their structures. This work renders an environmentally benign strategy and a facile approach for controllable structures on nanodevice.
A STRIPAK component Strip regulates neuronal morphogenesis by affecting microtubule stability
Authors: Sakuma Chisako , Okumura Misako , Umehara Tomoki , Miura Masayuki , Chihara Takahiro
Published: December 2015

During neural development, regulation of microtubule stability is essential for proper morphogenesis of neurons. Recently, the striatin-interacting phosphatase and kinase (STRIPAK) complex was revealed to be involved in diverse cellular processes. However, there is little evidence that STRIPAK components regulate microtubule dynamics, especially in vivo. Here, we show that one of the core STRIPAK components, Strip, is required for microtubule organization during neuronal morphogenesis. Knockdown of Strip causes a decrease in the level of acetylated α-tubulin in Drosophila S2 cells, suggesting that Strip influences the stability of microtubules. We also found that Strip physically and genetically interacts with tubulin folding cofactor D (TBCD), an essential regulator of α- and β-tubulin heterodimers. Furthermore, we demonstrate the genetic interaction between strip and Down syndrome cell adhesion molecule (Dscam), a cell surface molecule that is known to work with TBCD. Thus, we propose that Strip regulates neuronal morphogenesis by affecting microtubule stability.
One Dimensional(1D)-to-2D Crossover of Spin Correlations in the 3D Magnet ZnMn2O4
Authors: Disseler S. M. , Chen Y. , Yeo S. , Gasparovic G. , Piccoli P. M. B. , Schultz A. J. , Qiu Y. , Huang Q. , Cheong S.-W. , Ratcliff W.
Published: December 2015

We report on the intriguing evolution of the dynamical spin correlations of the frustrated spinel ZnMn2O4. Inelastic neutron scattering and magnetization studies reveal that the dynamical correlations at high temperatures are 1D. At lower temperature, these dynamical correlations become 2D. Surprisingly, the dynamical correlations condense into a quasi 2D Ising-like ordered state, making this a rare observation of two dimensional order on the spinel lattice. Remarkably, 3D ordering is not observed down to temperatures as low as 300 mK. This unprecedented dimensional crossover stems from frustrated exchange couplings due to the huge Jahn-Teller distortions around Mn3+ ions on the spinel lattice.
Suspended Solid-state Membranes on Glass Chips with Sub 1-pF Capacitance for Biomolecule Sensing Applications
Authors: Balan Adrian , Chien Chen-Chi , Engelke Rebecca , Drndić Marija
Published: December 2015

Solid-state membranes are finding use in many applications in nanoelectronics and nanomedicine, from single molecule sensors to water filtration and yet many of their electronics applications are limited by the relatively high current noise and low bandwidth stemming from the relatively high capacitance (>10 pF) of the membrane chips. To address this problem, we devised an integrated fabrication process to grow and define circular silicon nitride membranes on glass chips that successfully lower the chip capacitance to below 1 pF. We use these devices to demonstrate low-noise, high-bandwidth DNA translocation measurements. We also make use of this versatile, low-capacitance platform to suspend other thin, two-dimensional membrane such as graphene.
Xanthurenic Acid Activates mGlu2/3 Metabotropic Glutamate Receptors and is a Potential Trait Marker for Schizophrenia
Authors: Fazio Francesco , Lionetto Luana , Curto Martina , Iacovelli Luisa , Cavallari Michele , Zappulla Cristina , Ulivieri Martina , Napoletano Flavia , Capi Matilde , Corigliano Valentina , Scaccianoce Sergio , Caruso Alessandra , Miele Jessica , De Fusco Antonio , Di Menna Luisa , Comparelli Anna , De Carolis Antonella , Gradini Roberto , Nisticò Robert , De Blasi Antonio , Girardi Paolo , Bruno Valeria , Battaglia Giuseppe , Nicoletti Ferdinando , Simmaco Maurizio
Published: December 2015

The kynurenine pathway of tryptophan metabolism has been implicated in the pathophysiology of psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia. We report here that the kynurenine metabolite, xanturenic acid (XA), interacts with and activates mGlu2 and mGlu3 metabotropic glutamate receptors in heterologous expression systems. However, the molecular nature of this interaction is unknown and our data cannot exclude that XA acts primarily on other targets, such as the vesicular glutamate transporter, in the CNS. Systemic administration of XA in mice produced antipsychotic-like effects in the MK-801-induced model of hyperactivity. This effect required the presence of mGlu2 receptors and was abrogated by the preferential mGlu2/3 receptor antagonist, LY341495. Because the mGlu2 receptor is a potential drug target in the treatment of schizophrenia, we decided to measure serum levels of XA and other kynurenine metabolites in patients affected by schizophrenia. Serum XA levels were largely reduced in a large cohort of patients affected by schizophrenia, and, in patients with first-episode schizophrenia, levels remained low after 12 months of antipsychotic medication. As opposed to other kynurenine metabolites, XA levels were also significantly reduced in first-degree relatives of patients affected by schizophrenia. We suggest that lowered serum XA levels might represent a novel trait marker for schizophrenia.
Comparative transcriptomic analysis of silkwormBmovo-1 and wild type silkworm ovary
Authors: Xue Renyu , Hu Xiaolong , Zhu Liyuan , Cao Guangli , Huang Moli , Xue Gaoxu , Song Zuowei , Lu Jiayu , Chen Xueying , Gong Chengliang
Published: December 2015

The detailed molecular mechanism of Bmovo-1 regulation of ovary size is unclear. To uncover the mechanism of Bmovo-1 regulation of ovarian development and oogenesis using RNA-Seq, we compared the transcriptomes of wild type (WT) and Bmovo-1-overexpressing silkworm (silkworm+Bmovo-1) ovaries. Using a pair-end Illumina Solexa sequencing strategy, 5,296,942 total reads were obtained from silkworm+Bmovo-1 ovaries and 6,306,078 from WT ovaries. The average read length was about 100 bp. Clean read ratios were 98.79% for silkworm+Bmovo-1 and 98.87% for WT silkworm ovaries. Comparative transcriptome analysis showed 123 upregulated and 111 downregulated genes in silkworm+Bmovo-1 ovaries. These differentially expressed genes were enriched in the extracellular and extracellular spaces and involved in metabolism, genetic information processing, environmental information processing, cellular processes and organismal systems. Bmovo-1 overexpression in silkworm ovaries might promote anabolism for ovarian development and oogenesis and oocyte proliferation and transport of nutrients to ovaries by altering nutrient partitioning, which would support ovary development. Excessive consumption of nutrients for ovary development alters nutrient partitioning and deters silk protein synthesis.
Association of BRCA1 promoter methylation with sporadic breast cancers: Evidence from 40 studies
Authors: Zhang Li , Long Xinghua
Published: December 2015

Breast cancer susceptibility gene 1 (BRCA1) located at chromosome 17q12-21 is a classic tumor suppressor gene and has been considered as a significant role in hereditary breast cancers. Moreover, numerous studies demonstrated the methylation status of CpG islands in the promoter regions ofBRCA1gene was aberrant in patients with sporadic breast tumors compared with healthy females or patients with benign diseases. However, these conclusions were not always consistent. Hence, a meta-analysis was performed to get a more precise estimate for these associations. Crude odds ratio with 95% confidence interval were used to assess the association ofBRCA1promoter methylation and the risk or clinicopathologic characteristics of breast cancers under fixed or random effect model. A total of 40 studies were eligible for this present study. We observed the frequency of BRCA1 promoter methylation was statistically significant higher in breast cancers than non-cancer controls. Furthermore, BRCA1 methylation was statistically associated with lymph node metastasis, histological grade 3, ER(-), PR(-), triple-negative phenotype and decreased or lack levels of BRCA1 protein expression. In conclusion, this study indicated that BRCA1 promoter methylation appeared to be a useful predictive or prognostic biomarker for breast cancers in clinical assessment.
Erythropoietin alleviates hepatic insulin resistance via PPARγ-dependent AKT activation
Authors: Ge Zhijuan , Zhang Pengzi , Hong Ting , Tang Sunyinyan , Meng Ran , Bi Yan , Zhu Dalong
Published: December 2015

Erythropoietin (EPO) has beneficial effects on glucose metabolism and insulin resistance. However, the mechanism underlying these effects has not yet been elucidated. This study aimed to investigate how EPO affects hepatic glucose metabolism. Here, we report that EPO administration promoted phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT pathway activation in palmitic acid (PA)-treated HepG2 cells and in the liver of high-fat diet (HFD)-fed mice, whereas adenovirus-mediated silencing of the erythropoietin receptor (EPOR) blocked EPO-induced AKT signalling in HepG2 cells. Importantly, a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) antagonist and PPARγ small interfering RNA (siRNA) abrogated the EPO-induced increase in p-AKT in HepG2 cells. Lentiviral vector-mediated hepatic PPARγ silencing in HFD-fed C57BL/6 mice impaired EPO-mediated increases in glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity and hepatic AKT activation. Furthermore, EPO activated the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)/sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) signalling pathway and AMPKα and SIRT1 knockdown each attenuated the EPO-induced PPARγ expression and deacetylation and PPARγ-dependent AKT activation in HepG2 cells. In summary, these findings suggest that PPARγ is involved in EPO/EPOR-induced AKT activation and targeting the PPARγ/AKT pathway via EPO may have therapeutic implications for hepatic insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
Cell cycle reactivation of cochlear progenitor cells in neonatal FUCCI mice by a GSK3 small molecule inhibitor
Authors: Roccio M. , Hahnewald S. , Perny M. , Senn P.
Published: December 2015

Due to the lack of regenerative capacity of the mammalian auditory epithelium, sensory hair cell loss results in permanent hearing deficit. Nevertheless, a population of tissue resident stem/progenitor cells has been recently described. Identification of methods to trigger their activity could lead to exploitation of their potential therapeutically. Here we validate the use of transgenic mice reporting cell cycle progression (FUCCI) and stemness (Lgr5-GFP), as a valuable tool to identify regulators of cell cycle re-entry of supporting cells within the auditory epithelium. The small molecule compound CHIR99021 was used to inhibit GSK3 activity. This led to a significant increase in the fraction of proliferating sphere-forming cells, labeled by the FUCCI markers and in the percentage of Lgr5-GFP + cells, as well as a selective increase in the fraction of S-G2-M cells in the Lgr5 + population. Using whole mount cultures of the organ of Corti we detected a statistically significant increment in the fraction of proliferating Sox2 supporting cells after CHIR99021 treatment, but only rarely appearance of novel MyoVIIa+/Edu + hair cells. In conclusion, these tools provide a robust mean to identify novel regulators of auditory organ regeneration and to clarify the contribution of stem cell activity.
Tuning the conductance of H2O@C60 by position of the encapsulated H2O
Authors: Zhu Chengbo , Wang Xiaolin
Published: December 2015

The change of conductance of single-molecule junction in response to various external stimuli is the fundamental mechanism for the single-molecule electronic devices with multiple functionalities. We propose the concept that the conductance of molecular systems can be tuned from inside. The conductance is varied in C60 with encapsulated H2O, H2O@C60. The transport properties of the H2O@C60-based nanostructure sandwiched between electrodes are studied using first-principles calculations combined with the non-equilibrium Green’s function formalism. Our results show that the conductance of the H2O@C60 is sensitive to the position of the H2O and its dipole direction inside the cage with changes in conductance up to 20%. Our study paves a way for the H2O@C60 molecule to be a new platform for novel molecule-based electronics and sensors.
Impact of imidacloprid on new queens of imported fire ants, Solenopsis invicta (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)
Authors: Wang Lei , Zeng Ling , Chen Jian
Published: December 2015

Neonicotinoid insecticides are commonly used in managing pest insects, including the imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta Buren. There is increasing evidence that neonicotinoid insecticides at sublethal concentrations have profound effects on social insects. However, the sublethal effect of neonicotinoids on S. invicta has never been investigated. In this study, the newly mated queens were fed with water containing 0.01 or 0.25 μg/ml imidacloprid. Imidacloprid at both concentrations did not cause any increase in queen mortality during the founding stage; however, it significantly reduced queens’ brood tending ability. In the 0.25 μg/ml imidacloprid treatment, the time to larval emergence was significantly delayed and no pupae or adult workers were produced. This study provides clear evidence that imidacloprid at sublethal concentrations has a significant detrimental impact on S. invicta queens and the development of incipient colonies.
Cell culture-derived HCV cannot infect synovial fibroblasts
Authors: Abd-Elshafy Dina N. , Pietschmann Thomas , Müller-Ladner Ulf , Neumann Elena , Anggakusuma  , Bahgat Mahmoud M. , Pessler Frank , Behrendt Patrick
Published: December 2015

Worldwide 170 million individuals are infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV), up to 45 million of whom are affected by arthropathy. It is unclear whether this is due to viral infection of synovial cells or immune-mediated mechanisms. We tested the capacity of primary synovial fibroblasts to support HCV propagation. Out of the four critical HCV receptors, only CD81 was expressed to any significant extent in OASF and RASF. Consistent with this, pseudotyped HCV particles were unable to infect these cells. Permissiveness for HCV replication was investigated by transfecting cells with a subgenomic replicon of HCV encoding a luciferase reporter. OASF and RASF did not support replication of HCV, possibly due to low expression levels of miR-122. In conclusion, primary human synovial fibroblasts are unable to support propagation of HCV in vitro. HCV-related arthropathy is unlikely due to direct infection of these cells.
Mesenchymal stem cell-laden anti-inflammatory hydrogel enhances diabetic wound healing
Authors: Chen Shixuan , Shi Junbin , Zhang Min , Chen Yinghua , Wang Xueer , Zhang Lei , Tian Zhihui , Yan Yuan , Li Qinglin , Zhong Wen , Xing Malcolm , Zhang Lu , Zhang Lin
Published: December 2015

The purpose of this study was to permit bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) to reach their full potential in the treatment of chronic wounds. A biocompatible multifunctional crosslinker based temperature sensitive hydrogel was developed to deliver BMSCs, which improve the chronic inflammation microenvironments of wounds. A detailed in vitro investigation found that the hydrogel is suitable for BMSC encapsulation and can promote BMSC secretion of TGF-β1 and bFGF. In vivo, full-thickness skin defects were made on the backs of db/db mice to mimic diabetic ulcers. It was revealed that the hydrogel can inhibit pro-inflammatory M1 macrophage expression. After hydrogel association with BMSCs treated the wound, significantly greater wound contraction was observed in the hydrogel + BMSCs group. Histology and immunohistochemistry results confirmed that this treatment contributed to the rapid healing of diabetic skin wounds by promoting granulation tissue formation, angiogenesis, extracellular matrix secretion, wound contraction and re-epithelialization. These results show that a hydrogel laden with BMSCs may be a promising therapeutic strategy for the management of diabetic ulcers.
Knockdown of the partner protein OsNAR2.1 for high-affinity nitrate transport represses lateral root formation in a nitrate-dependent manner
Authors: Huang Shuangjie , Chen Si , Liang Zhihao , Zhang Chenming , Yan Ming , Chen Jingguang , Xu Guohua , Fan Xiaorong , Zhang Yali
Published: December 2015

The morphological plasticity of root systems is critical for plant survival and understanding the mechanisms underlying root adaptation to nitrogen (N) fluctuation is critical for sustainable agriculture; however, the molecular mechanism of N-dependent root growth in rice remains unclear. This study aimed to identify the role of the complementary high-affinity NO3− transport protein OsNAR2.1 in NO3−-regulated rice root growth. Comparisons with wild-type (WT) plants showed that knockdown of OsNAR2.1 inhibited lateral root (LR) formation under low NO3− concentrations, but not under low NH4+ concentrations. 15N-labelling NO3− supplies (provided at concentrations of 0–10 mM) demonstrated that (i) defects in LR formation in mutants subjected to low external NO3− concentrations resulted from impaired NO3− uptake and (ii) the mutants had significantly fewer LRs than the WT plants when root N contents were similar between genotypes. LR formation in osnar2.1 mutants was less sensitive to localised NO3− supply than LR formation in WT plants, suggesting that OsNAR2.1 may be involved in a NO3−-signalling pathway that controls LR formation. Knockdown of OsNAR2.1 inhibited LR formation by decreasing auxin transport from shoots to roots. Thus, OsNAR2.1 probably functions in both NO3− uptake and NO3−-signalling.
Feasibility of investigating differential proteomic expression in depression: implications for biomarker development in mood disorders
Authors: Frye M A , Nassan M , Jenkins G D , Kung S , Veldic M , Palmer B A , Feeder S E , Tye S J , Choi D S , Biernacka J M
Published: December 2015

The objective of this study was to determine whether proteomic profiling in serum samples can be utilized in identifying and differentiating mood disorders. A consecutive sample of patients with a confirmed diagnosis of unipolar (UPn=52) or bipolar depression (BP-In=46, BP-IIn=49) and controls (n=141) were recruited. A 7.5-ml blood sample was drawn for proteomic multiplex profiling of 320 proteins utilizing the Myriad RBM Discovery Multi-Analyte Profiling platform. After correcting for multiple testing and adjusting for covariates, growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15), hemopexin (HPX), hepsin (HPN), matrix metalloproteinase-7 (MMP-7), retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP-4) and transthyretin (TTR) all showed statistically significant differences among groups. In a series of threepost hocanalyses correcting for multiple testing, MMP-7 was significantly different in mood disorder (BP-I+BP-II+UP) vs controls, MMP-7, GDF-15, HPN were significantly different in bipolar cases (BP-I+BP-II) vs controls, and GDF-15, HPX, HPN, RBP-4 and TTR proteins were all significantly different in BP-I vs controls. Good diagnostic accuracy (ROC-AUC⩾0.8) was obtained most notably for GDF-15, RBP-4 and TTR when comparing BP-I vs controls. While based on a small sample not adjusted for medication state, this discovery sample with a conservative method of correction suggests feasibility in using proteomic panels to assist in identifying and distinguishing mood disorders, in particular bipolar I disorder. Replication studies for confirmation, consideration of state vs trait serial assays to delineate proteomic expression of bipolar depression vs previous mania, and utility studies to assess proteomic expression profiling as an advanced decision making tool or companion diagnostic are encouraged.
Assessing potato chip oil quality using a portable infrared spectrometer combined with pattern recognition analysis
Authors: Aykas Didem P. , Rodriguez-Saona Luis E.
Published: December 2015

The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of a portable FT-IR spectrometer equipped with a 5-bounce heated ZnSe crystal to develop classification methods for the authentication of potato chip frying oils and to generate prediction models for monitoring oil quality parameters for real-time and field-based applications.
Water soluble sulphur quantum dots for selective Ag+ sensing based on the ion aggregation-induced photoluminescence enhancement
Authors: Chen Dejian , Li Shunxing , Zheng Fengying
Published: December 2015

Water soluble sulphur quantum dots have been presented for silver ion detection based on the ion aggregation-induced photoluminescence enhancement.
A rapid and non-invasive method for the classification of natural tannin extracts by near-infrared spectroscopy and PLS-DA
Authors: Grasel F. S. , Ferrão M. F.
Published: December 2015

A green, fast and sensitive method using NIR and PLS-DA was developed for classification of commercial tannins according to their nature.
Determination of trace mercury(ii) in wastewater using on-line flow injection spectrophotometry coupled with supported liquid membrane enrichment
Authors: Xiao Xin-feng , Yang Nu , Wang Zhao-li , Huang Yong-qing
Published: December 2015

An on-line flow-injection spectrophotometric method coupled with supported liquid membrane enrichment was developed to determine trace Hg(ii) in water.
Facilitated carbon dioxide reduction using a Zn(ii) complex
Authors: Donovan Elizabeth S. , Barry Brian M. , Larsen Christopher A. , Wirtz Melissa N. , Geiger William E. , Kemp Richard A.
Published: December 2015

Electrochemical results indicate that facilitated CO2reduction to evolve CO at a glassy carbon electrode was possible using a new, easily-prepared Zn complex.
Inductive effects of 10 and 12-vertex closo-carborane anions: cluster size and charge make a difference
Authors: Estrada Jess , Lugo Christopher A. , McArthur Scott G. , Lavallo Vincent
Published: December 2015

The inductive effects of 10 and 12-vertex closo-carborane anion ligand substituents are elucidated for the first time. It is found that both of these cluster substituents are potent electron donating groups, which is in contrast to C-functionalized o-carborane. The fact that the 10-vertex cluster displays the strongest electron donating ability can be rationalized by its charge and size.
A molecular nanocap activated by superparamagnetic heating for externally stimulated cargo release
Authors: Rühle B. , Datz S. , Argyo C. , Bein T. , Zink J. I.
Published: December 2015

A novel thermoresponsive snaptop for stimulated cargo release from superparamagnetic iron oxide core – mesoporous silica shell nanoparticles based on a [2 + 4] cycloreversion reaction (retro-Diels Alder reaction) is presented.
Chiral Brønsted acid-catalysed enantioselective synthesis of isoindolinone-derived N(acyl),S-acetals
Authors: Suć Josipa , Dokli Irena , Gredičak Matija
Published: December 2015

Chiral Brønsted acid catalyzed synthesis ofN(acyl),S-acetals fromin situgenerated ketimines proceeds in high yields and enantioselectivities.
A high performance hybrid battery based on aluminum anode and LiFePO4 cathode
Authors: Sun Xiao-Guang , Bi Zhonghe , Liu Hansan , Fang Youxing , Bridges Craig A. , Paranthaman M. Parans , Dai Sheng , Brown Gilbert M.
Published: December 2015

A novel hybrid battery utilizing an aluminum anode, a LiFePO4 cathode and an acidic ionic liquid electrolyte based on 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride (EMImCl) and aluminum trichloride (AlCl3) (EMImCl–AlCl3, 1–1.1 in molar ratio) with or without LiAlCl4 is proposed.
Preparation and applications of novel composites composed of metal–organic frameworks and two-dimensional materials
Authors: Li Shaozhou , Yang Kai , Tan Chaoliang , Huang Xiao , Huang Wei , Zhang Hua
Published: December 2015

The integration of metal–organic frameworks and two-dimensional materials has led to the improved performance in molecular absorption, separation and storage, and shown promise in selective catalysis and biosensing.
Detection of quadrupolar nuclei by ultrafast 2D NMR: exploring the case of deuterated analytes aligned in chiral oriented solvents
Authors: Lesot Philippe , Berdagué Philippe , Giraudeau Patrick
Published: December 2015

Anisotropic 2H ultrafast (ADUF) 2D NMR spectroscopy for studying deuterated analytes dissolved in chiral liquid crystals is investigated and its analytical possibilities are evaluated.
An all-inorganic polyoxometalate–polyoxocation chemical garden
Authors: Points Laurie J. , Cooper Geoffrey J. T. , Dolbecq Anne , Mialane Pierre , Cronin Leroy
Published: December 2015

Wholly inorganic chemical gardens are produced from a cationic polyoxometalate seed in an anionic POM solution which display six concentration dependent growth regimes.
Enhanced photoelectronic properties of single crystal TiO2 nanosheet array films by selective deposition of CdS nanoparticles on their {101} facets
Authors: Yang Lei , Jiang Haiyan , Wang Weihua , Chu Delin , Yang Jinhong , Zhang Miao , Lv Jianguo , Wang Baoming , He Gang , Sun Zhaoqi
Published: December 2015

The selective deposition of CdS nanoparticles on the {101} facets of TiO2 enhances the spatial separation of electrons and holes on different facets, thereby improving their photoelectronic properties.
Dielectric relaxations of polyether-based polyurethanes containing ionic liquids as antistatic agents
Authors: Tsurumaki Akiko , Bertasi Federico , Vezzù Keti , Negro Enrico , Di Noto Vito , Ohno Hiroyuki
Published: December 2015

Dielectric properties of polyurethanes containing poly(propylene oxide) (PO) and poly(ethylene oxide) (EO) units are discussed, along with the results of direct current (DC) measurements and broadband electrical spectroscopy (BES) studies.
One-step in situ synthesis of CeO2nanoparticles grown on reduced graphene oxide as an excellent fluorescent and photocatalyst material under sunlight irradiation
Authors: Kumar Sachin , Ojha Animesh K. , Patrice Donfack , Yadav Brajesh S. , Materny Arnulf
Published: December 2015

The rGO–CeO2nanocomposite exhibited excellent photocatalytic activity under sunlight irradiation.
Nonequilibrium spin injection in monolayer black phosphorus
Authors: Chen Mingyan , Yu Zhizhou , Wang Yin , Xie Yiqun , Wang Jian , Guo Hong
Published: December 2015

Nonequilibrium spin injection and spin-polarized quantum transport in monolayer black phosphorus are studied using the first principles method.
Bandgap engineering of Fe2O3 with Cr – application to photoelectrochemical oxidation
Authors: Chemelewski William D. , Mabayoje Oluwaniyi , Tang Ding , Rettie Alexander J. E. , Buddie Mullins C.
Published: December 2015

The reported decrease in the photoconductive (PC) bandgap of Fe2O3 with Cr doping is investigated for photoelectrochemical (PEC) applications.
The thermodynamics of endosomal escape and DNA release from lipoplexes
Authors: Avital Yotam Y. , Grønbech-Jensen Niels , Farago Oded
Published: December 2015

In this work we identify and characterize the entropic driving forces governing the process of transfection by lipid–DNA complexes.
Unraveling the ultrafast behavior of nile red interacting with aluminum and titanium co-doped MCM41 materials
Authors: Martin Cristina , Cohen Boiko , Navarro María Teresa , Corma Avelino , Douhal Abderrazzak
Published: December 2015

Spectroscopic and photodynamic characterization of Nile Red during interaction with Brønsted and Lewis acid sites within single- and multi-metal(X)-doped MCM41 materials (X = Ti and/or Al).
Growth mechanisms of Pd nanofilms electrodeposited onto Au(111): an in situ grazing incidence X-ray diffraction study
Authors: Soldo-Olivier Yvonne , De Santis Maurizio , Liang Wang , Sibert Eric
Published: December 2015

Surface X-ray diffraction characterization of a Pd10ML/Au(111) film. A characteristic Pd rod with sharp Bragg-like peaks is observed, signature of 3D islands growth.
Formation of C3H2, C5H2, C7H2, and C9H2 from reactions of CH, C3H, C5H, and C7H radicals with C2H2
Authors: Sun Yi-Lun , Huang Wen-Jian , Lee Shih-Huang
Published: December 2015

A three-dimensional velocity distribution contour of C2n+1H2 produced from the reaction of C2n−1H (n = 1–4) with C2H2 in crossed molecular beams.
First evidence of the dramatic enhancement of the reactivity of methyl formate (HC(O)OCH3) with OH at temperatures of the interstellar medium: a gas-phase kinetic study between 22 K and 64 K
Authors: Jiménez E. , Antiñolo M. , Ballesteros B. , Canosa A. , Albaladejo J.
Published: December 2015

The gas phase chemistry of neutral-neutral reactions of interest in the interstellar medium (ISM) is poorly understood.
Unraveling the interplay between hydrogen bonding and rotational energy barrier to fine-tune the properties of triazine molecular glasses
Authors: Laventure Audrey , De Grandpré Guillaume , Soldera Armand , Lebel Olivier , Pellerin Christian
Published: December 2015

Mexylaminotriazine derivatives form molecular glasses with outstanding glass-forming ability (GFA), glass kinetic stability (GS), and tunable glass transition temperature. This work establishes key molecular parameters for efficient glass engineering.
Deactivation of Cu-SSZ-13 by SO2 exposure under SCR conditions
Authors: Wijayanti Kurnia , Leistner Kirsten , Chand Shilpa , Kumar Ashok , Kamasamudram Krishna , Currier Neal W. , Yezerets Aleksey , Olsson Louise
Published: December 2015

Sulfur poisoning is worse in SCR conditions as seen in the figure. Sulfur can be gradually removed during SCR conditions until a certain limit. Sulfur is removed more easily in the front part of the catalyst. Increased ammonia storage is observed due to storage on sulfur species.
Computational insights into the reaction mechanism of methanol-to-olefins conversion in H-ZSM-5: nature of hydrocarbon pool
Authors: Wang Chuan-Ming , Wang Yang-Dong , Du Yu-Jue , Yang Guang , Xie Zai-Ku
Published: December 2015

Periodic DFT calculations in H-ZSM-5 revealed that 1,2,3,5-tetramethylbenzene is the primary component of methylbenzene, and olefins themselves are the active hydrocarbon pool species for the methanol-to-olefins conversion.
Cobalt nanoparticles embedded in porous N-doped carbon as long-life catalysts for hydrolysis of ammonia borane
Authors: Wang Haixia , Zhao Yaran , Cheng Fangyi , Tao Zhanliang , Chen Jun
Published: December 2015

Cobalt nanoparticles uniformly embedded in porous N-doped carbon prepared through the thermal decomposition of Co(salen) are promising catalysts for hydrolysis of ammonia borane.
Copper(ii) cubanes with a {Cu4O} core and well defined S = 1 ground state
Authors: Escuer A. , Mayans J. , Font-Bardia M.
Published: December 2015

Three copper cubanes with the unusual S = 1 ground state have been characterized and their magnetic properties rationalized as a function of the asymmetry of the {Cu4O4} cage and correlated with the Cu–O–Cu bond angles.
Surprising coordination for low-valent actinides resembling uranyl(vi) in thorium(iv) organic hybrid layered and framework structures based on a graphene-like (6,3) sheet topology
Authors: Li Yuxiang , Weng Zhehui , Wang Yanlong , Chen Lanhua , Sheng Daopeng , Diwu Juan , Chai Zhifang , Albrecht-Schmitt Thomas E. , Wang Shuao
Published: December 2015

Three thorium(iv)-based metal–organic hybrid compounds with 2D layered and 3D framework structures exhibiting graphene-like (6,3) sheet topologies were prepared with linkers with threefold symmetry.
Ethylene polymerization by salicylaldimine nickel(ii) complexes containing a dibenzhydryl moiety
Authors: Hu Xiaohui , Dai Shengyu , Chen Changle
Published: December 2015

The synthesis, characterization and ethylene polymerization properties of a series of salicylaldimine Ni(ii) complexes with a dibenzhydryl moiety are described.
Space-confined assembly of all-carbon hybrid fibers for capacitive energy storage: realizing a built-to-order concept for micro-supercapacitors
Authors: Jiang Wenchao , Zhai Shengli , Qian Qihui , Yuan Yang , Karahan H. Enis , Wei Li , Goh Kunli , Ng Andrew Keong , Wei Jun , Chen Yuan
Published: December 2015

Customized hybrid carbon fiber supercapacitors with energy across two orders and power across four orders of magnitude.
Spatial and seasonal variations in the composition of dissolved organic matter in a tropical catchment: the Lower Kinabatangan River, Sabah, Malaysia
Authors: Harun Sahana , Baker Andy , Bradley Chris , Pinay Gilles
Published: December 2015

Dissolved organic matter (DOM) was characterised in water samples sampled in the Lower Kinabatangan River Catchment, Sabah, Malaysia between October 2009 and May 2010.
Simulation of particle diversity and mixing state over Greater Paris: a model–measurement inter-comparison
Authors: Zhu Shupeng , Sartelet Karine N. , Healy Robert M. , Wenger John C.
Published: December 2015

Air quality models are used to simulate and forecast pollutant concentrations, from continental scales to regional and urban scales. These models usually assume that particles are internally mixed, i.e. particles of the same size have the same chemical composition, which may vary in space and time. Although this assumption may be realistic for continental-scale simulations, where particles originating from different sources have undergone sufficient mixing to achieve a common chemical composition for a given model grid cell and time, it may not be valid for urban-scale simulations, where particles from different sources interact on shorter time scales. To investigate the role of the mixing state assumption on the formation of particles, a size-composition resolved aerosol model (SCRAM) was developed and coupled to the Polyphemus air quality platform. Two simulations, one with the internal mixing hypothesis and another with the external mixing hypothesis, have been carried out for the period 15 January to 11 February 2010, when the MEGAPOLI winter field measurement campaign took place in Paris. The simulated bulk concentrations of chemical species and the concentrations of individual particle classes are compared with the observations of Healy et al. (Atmos. Chem. Phys., 2013, 13, 9479–9496) for the same period. The single particle diversity and the mixing-state index are computed based on the approach developed by Riemer et al. (Atmos. Chem. Phys., 2013, 13, 11423–11439), and they are compared to the measurement-based analyses of Healy et al. (Atmos. Chem. Phys., 2014, 14, 6289–6299). The average value of the single particle diversity, which represents the average number of species within each particle, is consistent between simulation and measurement (2.91 and 2.79 respectively). Furthermore, the average value of the mixing-state index is also well represented in the simulation (69% against 59% from the measurements). The spatial distribution of the mixing-state index shows that the particles are not mixed in urban areas, while they are well mixed in rural areas. This indicates that the assumption of internal mixing traditionally used in transport chemistry models is well suited to rural areas, but this assumption is less realistic for urban areas close to emission sources.
The effect of extrusion on the functional components and in vitro lycopene bioaccessibility of tomato pulp added corn extrudates
Authors: Tonyali Bade , Sensoy Ilkay , Karakaya Sibel
Published: December 2015

The effect of processing on functional ingredients and theirin vitrobioaccessibility should be investigated to develop better food products.
Physical and oxidative stability of functional olive oil-in-water emulsions formulated using olive mill wastewater biophenols and whey proteins
Authors: Caporaso Nicola , Genovese Alessandro , Burke Róisín , Barry-Ryan Catherine , Sacchi Raffaele
Published: December 2015

Olive oil-in-water emulsions were formulated by adding phenolic extracts from olive mill wastewater, whey protein isolate and xanthan gum.
Food structure is critical for optimal health
Authors: Wahlqvist Mark L.
Published: December 2015

Much nutrition policy is nutrient-based, supported by nutrient science, food nutrient composition tables and dietary nutrient recommendations, but not by reference to food structure.
3-D individual cell based computational modeling of tumor cell–macrophage paracrine signaling mediated by EGF and CSF-1 gradients
Authors: Knutsdottir Hildur , Condeelis John S. , Palsson Eirikur
Published: December 2015

Our 3-D computational model shows that EGF-CSF1 paracrine signaling between tumor cells and macrophages enhances cell invasiveness and leads to co-migration in a specific cell ratio.
The influence of ns- and fs-LA plume local conditions on the performance of a combined LIBS/LA-ICP-MS sensor
Authors: LaHaye Nicole L. , Phillips Mark C. , Duffin Andrew M. , Eiden Gregory C. , Harilal Sivanandan S.
Published: December 2015

A comprehensive comparison of local plasma conditions is made between ns- and fs-LA sources in a combined LIBS and LA-ICP-MS system.
The relationships among host transcriptional responses reveal distinct signatures underlying viral infection-disease associations
Authors: Han Lu , He Haochen , Qu Xinyan , Liu Yang , He Song , Zheng Xiaofei , He Fuchu , Bai Hui , Bo Xiaochen
Published: December 2015

Genome-scale DNA microarrays and computational biology facilitate new understanding of viral infections at the system level.
Quantification of proteins using enhanced etching of Ag coated Au nanorods by the Cu2+/bicinchoninic acid pair with improved sensitivity
Authors: Liu Wenqi , Hou Shuai , Yan Jiao , Zhang Hui , Ji Yinglu , Wu Xiaochun
Published: December 2015

We present an SPR detection method to quantify proteins by building up the relationship between the LSPR peak shift of Au@Ag nanorods and the protein amountviaCu2+/BCA pair bridged protein oxidation and Au@Ag etching.
NIR bacteriochlorin chromophores accessed by Heck and Sonogashira cross-coupling reactions on a tetrabromobacteriochlorin derivative
Authors: de Assis Francisco F. , Ferreira Marco A. B. , Brocksom Timothy J. , de Oliveira Kleber T.
Published: December 2015

The synthesis of a new tetrabromobacteriochlorin BCBr4 is reported. Pd cross-coupling reactions yielded tetra-coupled products with a significant red shift in the UV-Vis bands.
Morphology–activity correlation in hydrogen evolution catalyzed by cobalt sulfides
Authors: You Bo , Jiang Nan , Sun Yujie
Published: December 2015

CoS electrocatalysts with various morphologies such as hollow nanoprism, broken nanoprism, and 3D nanoparticle could be obtained by a facile and rapid two-step microwave-assisted synthetic route. The correlation between catalyst morphology and electrocatalytic H2evolution performance was systematically studied.
Double carboxylation of o-alkynyl acetophenone with carbon dioxide
Authors: Zhang Wen-Zhen , Yang Ming-Wang , Yang Xu-Tong , Shi Ling-Long , Wang Hui-Bo , Lu Xiao-Bing
Published: December 2015

A copper-catalyzed double carboxylation of o-alkynyl acetophenone using carbon dioxide via a carboxylation/intramolecular cyclization/second carboxylation sequence to afford 1(3H)-isobenzofuranylidene dicarboxylic esters in good yields is developed.
Development of asymmetrical near infrared squaraines with large Stokes shift
Authors: Liu Xiaoqian , Cho Bokun , Chan Li-Yan , Kwan Wei Lek , Ken Lee Chi-Lik
Published: December 2015

New asymmetrical squaraines with large Stokes shifts of up to 90 nm were synthesized. TDDFT calculations indicate that steric effects from N,N-dibutylaniline and squaraine contribute to the large geometric change, resulting in the large Stokes shift.
Atmospheric reactivity of HCCCH2OH (2-propyn-1-ol) toward OH radicals: experimental determination and theoretical comparison with its alkyne analogue
Authors: Gibilisco Rodrigo G. , Kieninger Martina , Ventura Oscar N. , Teruel Mariano A.
Published: December 2015

The rate coefficient for the reaction of propargyl alcohol (2-propyn-1-ol,2P1OL) with OH radicals has been determined using gas chromatography with a flame ionization detector (GC/FID) at 298 K and atmospheric pressure.
Self-healing anti-corrosion coatings based on polymers of intrinsic microporosity for the protection of aluminum alloy
Authors: Li Zhen , Qin Benye , Zhang Xiaoyong , Wang Ke , Wei Yen , Ji Yan
Published: December 2015

PIM1 is used as containers for corrosion inhibitors (BTA). Simple dip coating with BTA loaded PIM1 and a commercial top paint results in a self-healing anti-corrosion coating for aluminum alloy.
Single-process fabrication of antireflective acrylic hard coating via surface segregation of porous silica nanoparticles
Authors: Shimogaki Tomoyo , Tokoro Hiroki , Tabuchi Minoru , Inoue Naoto , Tsukamoto Takuji , Ishii Toru , Koike Nobuyuki , Yamashina Yohzoh , Takahashi Masahide
Published: December 2015

A surface porous nano silica layer is spontaneously formedviaa single step bar-coating process for an antireflective hard resin coating.
Energy band modification for UV photoresponse improvement in a ZnO microrod-quantum dot structure
Authors: Wu Chunxia , He Zijuan , Lu Junfeng , Dai Jun , Xu Chunxiang
Published: December 2015

The ZnO microrod/QDs hybrid structure creates an efficient charge transfer for superior photoresponse through energy band modification.
Electronic structures and optical properties of TM (Cr, Mn, Fe or Co) atom doped ZnSe nanosheets
Authors: Chen Xin-Lian , Huang Bao-Jun , Feng Yong , Wang Pei-Ji , Zhang Chang-Wen , Li Ping
Published: December 2015

The electronic structures and optical properties of pristine and transition-metal (TM) atom doped ZnSe nanosheets (ZnSeNSs) have been studied based on first-principles calculations.
Synthesis and biological evaluation of novel 2,3-pyrazole ring-substituted-4,4-dimethyl lithocholic acid derivatives as selective protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) inhibitors with cellular efficacy
Authors: Mao Shi-Wei , Shuai Lin , He Hai-Bing , Pan Na , Gao Li-Xin , Yu Li-Fang , Li Jia , Li Jing-Ya , Yang Fan
Published: December 2015

Fourteen 2,3-pyrazole ring-substituted 4,4-dimethyl lithocholic acid derivatives were designed and synthesized as novel PTP1B inhibitors with good potency, selectivity as well as cell permeability.